Jazz gig at farmers’ market

Manjimup locals will be among the first to bite into three new apple varieties at the relaunch of the Manjimup Farmers’ Market this Saturday.

Jazz, Kanzi and Greenstar apples are ripe and ready and have been grown by a handful of Manjimup orchardists, including Newton Brothers Orchards.

Newton Orchard apple grower Lucinda Giblett said getting involved with the market was a great way to reach consumers and rebuild the value off locally grown produce.

“It’s a great opportunity for locals to taste these new varieties which aren’t widely available in metropolitan or country stores,” Ms Giblett said.

Just as important, Ms Giblett said, was the need to raise the profile of Australian grown produce as food imports rise and government introduces unfavourable biosecurity policies. “By talking straight to consumers, we can share how great our produce is and, hopefully, ensure our industry is protected,” she said.

The passionate producer described Jazz as a cross between Gala and Braeburn varieties and said it was crunchy and tasty.

“Greenstar looks like a Granny Smith but is sweeter and doesn’t go brown once its cut while Kanzi is red, crunchy with dense flesh with great flavour,” Ms Giblett said.

Manjimup Farmers’ Market co-ordinator Jo Stewart said the relaunch celebrated and connected the southern forests region’s food bowl and its culinary heritage.

“We’ve recently moved to Manjin Park and have released a new logo as part of our market renewal effort,” Ms Stewart said.

“The markets help to develop the regional food culture that is rapidly growing in the southern forests region at the moment.

“We want to build community pride in our local produce and want people to enjoy and appreciate the fresh food we have.”

The relaunch includes a slow food cooking demonstration from chefs Sophie Zalokar and Mary Borshoff, as well as a truffle dog hunt, music, kids choir, fresh produce and children’s activities.

Fresh produce will include dairy, fresh fruit and vegetables,

The markets run from 8am to 1pm, with the official relaunch at 10am.