Farmers' Market helps society to thrive
In 1839 the South Australian Agricultural Society was formed 'for the advancement of agricultural and pastoral knowledge, and to promote the development of the natural resources of our noble colony.'
The society merged with a horticultural organisation in 1844 and staged its first combined exhibition in a marquee in Botanic Park, marking the birth of the Agricultural & Horticultural Society. The Royal prefix was granted by Queen Victoria in 1869.
Today the society has approximately 4,000 members and organises the State’s largest annual event, the Royal Adelaide Show, which attracts 30% of the State’s population and features displays of orchids, bonsai, ferns, camellias, daffodils, trees, shrubs, native plants, fruit and vegetables.
In 2006, to support South Australian farmers, the society provided funding for the establishment of the Adelaide Showground Farmers' Market and in 2007 the Society’s Education Foundation was born to promote ongoing education in the fields of agriculture and horticulture.
Society president Richard Fewster says the establishment of the Education Foundation and Farmers' Market has proven extremely successful.
“Four years on and the market attracts approximately 3,000 people weekly, buying direct from the Farmer. The Education Foundation has provided support for many individuals looking to further their education in agriculture or horticulture,” he said.