Talbot Farmers Market

It’s truly a regional affair, with farmers, artisans and makers from as far away as the Murray River coming to the historic town to trade their wares. Spread over several blocks of the town’s heritage precinct, it’s so much more than just organic fruit and vegetables (although the local growers’ stalls are sensational). As well as a town hall bric-à-brac selection, in true country market style there’s a grassy square where you can buy pigs, chickens and goats (should you find yourself caught short).

There’s also a huge range of jams, oils, fresh bread, fudge, plants and seedlings, honey and beeswax, coffee beans and products you’ll never find at supermarkets, such as black garlic. Scour the racks of second-hand clothes for treasure, browse through records and books or check out the many toy stalls, including hand-made wooden carts and even bags of hand-me-down Lego. For a bargain on hand-made leather boots, sandals and woollen moccasin hand-made in Echuca, check out the stall of Best Ever Boots.

Don’t leave without buying a ticket in the famous “Barrow Raffle,” which puts your name in the hat to win a wheelbarrow-full of market goodies. Be sure to call in to Talbot Providore and Eatery, a warm, community hub that offers a taste of the region. Rest your legs and enjoy a long lunch here after the market, and watch as the town transforms from a bustling marketplace back into a beautiful, historic village.