The best local farmers markets and what to buy in season

Geelong's Saturday markets open this weekend with crates of broccoli, cauliflower and navel oranges at prices 20 percent below supermarket rates.

Local produce demand has risen since Barwon Health launched its 2025 nutrition campaign that links fresh regional food to lower rates of type 2 diabetes in the region. July marks peak supply for brassicas and citrus grown along the Bellarine Peninsula, giving residents an immediate way to improve winter meals without imported items.

The Geelong Farmers Market operates from 8am to 1pm on Little Malop Street in the CBD, while the Belmont Community Market runs the same hours at the old showgrounds near the Barwon River walking trail. Both sites accept cash and card and feature direct sales from 25 growers who travel less than 80 kilometres.

Seasonal items to watch for

At the Geelong Farmers Market this month buyers will find 2-kilogram bags of navel oranges for $6 and bunches of kale for $3. The Belmont stalls stock whole cauliflowers at $4 each and 1-kilogram packs of Dutch cream potatoes for $5. These prices were recorded at the 5 July trading day and have remained steady through the first week of July.

Barwon Health dietitians recommend combining these items into simple dishes such as roasted cauliflower with orange segments to boost vitamin C intake during shorter daylight hours. The markets also sell free-range eggs at $7 per dozen, providing a complete protein source that pairs with the vegetables.

Practical steps for this weekend

Arrive before 9am to avoid crowds and bring reusable bags, as both markets have phased out single-use plastic. After shopping, visitors can extend the outing with a loop along the Barwon River walking trail or join the Geelong Waterfront parkrun on Sunday morning. Produce bought on Saturday keeps well in a cool pantry for five to seven days when stored properly.

Next week the same growers will return with additional root vegetables as soil temperatures drop further. Regular attendance builds familiarity with supply cycles and supports the 45 local farms that supply the two venues year-round.