Words by Anthea Riskas Images supplied
It’s a big call to promise a line-up of never-before-seen stallholders, but if anyone has the confidence and expertise to pull it off, it’s the producers of Hunt Gather Gander, a new series of events, put together by a family who’ve been staging craft markets around Victoria since 1975.
The premise is simple: Gather with friends, have a gander at the entertainment on offer and hunt around for a bargain.
The promise is that there will be live music, kids’ activities, lawn games and a mash-up of stallholders that will include handmade, vintage and secondhand goods, designer and boutique brands, and food and drink.
The idea is that by expanding the exhibitor criteria to facilitate a broader range of retailers, introducing all-day entertainment, and providing picnic tables, the organisers are hoping to invite a younger, curious audience to come and visit and take part in an experience, rather than just wander around some stalls.
The organisers are hoping that by expanding the exhibitor criteria to facilitate a broader range of retailers, introducing all-day entertainment, and providing picnic tables, visitors will enjoy an experience that takes the country market to a whole new level.
With dates locked in for 3 different locations in 2023 – Mornington, Yarra Glen and Werribee – there’s a heavy focus on the uniqueness of each Hunt Gather Gander event. The region itself will dictate the line-up and ambience, by focusing on the best of what the local producers, creators, artists, makers, growers and small businesses have to offer, as well as leaning into the natural surrounds.
The first Hunt Gather Gander is set to take over Mornington Racecourse on Saturday 25th February, with Yarra Glen Racecourse to follow on Saturday 8th April and then a Springtime re-emergence on Saturday, October 28th amongst the grounds of the majestic Werribee Park Mansion.
Entry to the first seaside day out is $10, with parking and kids under 12 free.
And if you’re a local vendor, applications are still open, so get in touch via the details below if you want to be featured as part of this exciting new endeavour.
THE DETAILS
Who: Hunt Gather Gander
What: A new series of outdoor shopping and entertainment events
When: February, April & October 2023
Where: Various locations around Victoria
How much: $10 with kids free
More Info: Hunt Gather Gander
We wish to acknowledge the traditional owners of this land and to pay our respects to their Elders, past and present.