This Week In The Market – July 11 2023

– Smoking on the Trading Floor
– Updated Site Induction Module
– Remember to “Buckle Up”

Market News

Smoking on the Trading Floor

Recently there has been an influx of complaints regarding smoking within the market, particularly on the Trading Floor. This is a reminder that in accordance with Operating Rule 4.3 (a); a Person on Market Land must not smoke unless in an area designated specifically as a smoking area and labelled as such.

It is imperative Market Users are familiar with and use the designated smoking locations which are marked in yellow on the below map. Market Relations Officer will be monitoring the increase in smoking in the Market closely over the coming weeks.

Updated Site Induction Module

As mentioned in last week’s newsletter, the Melbourne Market’s induction has been updated with a new module, Market Conduct.

All new market users are now undertaking this updated induction, and in the coming months, we will begin a program where current market users will re-do the induction in line with the rollout of digital access cards.

In the meantime, we are encouraging all existing Market users to watch the module that discusses important topics including the Market’s drug and alcohol policy and respectful behaviour within the Market.

We all want a Melbourne Market where everyone feels included, where people feel safe and are treated with respect. A place free of racism, sexism, discrimination, harassment, violence and bullying.

If you have feedback about the Stronger Together program or would like to confidentially discuss issues around racism, sexism, violence, or harassment in the Melbourne Market, please email strongertogether@melbournemarket.com.au.

Remember to “Buckle Up”

By now, all market-approved vehicles must have appropriate restraints fitted as per the WorkSafe Victoria requirement, and they must be worn at all times.

If you do not have restraints fitted on your market-approved vehicle, please get in touch with your service provider immediately.

Contact WorkSafe Victoria on 1800 136 089 for any queries regarding the restraint requirements.

Children in the Market magic!

We had a magical time for Children in the Market last week!

Marco the Magnificent entertained the children and stumped the adults with his close-up magic tricks. Check out the video here!

Kids could also participate in our market colouring competition to win a $50 gift voucher and a copy of Marco the Magnificent.

Well done to everyone who entered; we received lots of colourful creations.
Our winner is: Haresh from Organic Growers Group

Thank you to everyone for your vigilance and prioritising safety while we welcomed 41 children into the market over the two days.

We are already looking forward to the next Children in the Market event; keep an eye out for the dates in the coming months!

A reminder that children are only permitted in the Market on allocated event dates.

A better choice! Victorian Retailer of the Year, People’s Choice Award Finalists Announced

Thank you to all who came along to our special event last Thursday to recognise the Victorian finalists of the 2023 A better choice! Retailer of the Year, People’s Choice Awards.

It was a great morning to celebrate not only our state’s wonderful local fruit and veg shops, but the growers, wholesalers, and entire fresh produce supply chain!

The 10 finalists from Victoria are listed below:

1. Arnolds Fruit Market
2. Greavesys Fruit N Veg
3. Top Shelf Fruits and Fine Foods

• Eden Garden Fresh Market
• Big Watermelon
• The Happy Apple Ascot Vale
• The Cranbourne Market
• Wilsons Fruit and Vegetables
• Henrys Mercato Waverley Gardens
• Emerald Fruit Barn

Industry News

UK-AU Free Trade Agreement will help Australian onions be more competitive but will be subject to UK production

The Australia-United Kingdom Free Trade Agreement came into force on 31 May 2023 and will end tariffs on more than 99% of Australian exports to the UK.

Fruit, vegetable and nut exports from Australia to the UK have dropped drastically in the last couple of decades and the UK now imports fresh fruit, vegetables and nuts from countries closer to home.

Click here to read more.

MNFG and Brimbank City Council networking event

Melbourne’s North Food Group and Brimbank City Council are hosting a networking event on Tuesday, 25 July at 5.30 pm at Mt Derrimut Golf and Community Club.

This event is a great way to connect partners, suppliers and industry peers to collaborate, build great relationships and achieve shared objectives.

This is a free event. Click here to register.

Melbourne Market Job Board and Community Notices

Ask the MMA

If you’ve got a question for the MMA email it to: submissions@melbournemarket.com.au.