Byron Farmers Market is launching a Young Farmer Sponsorship Program to support and encourage a new generation of farmers and help secure the future of local food systems.
Belinda Fortune, Byron Farmers Market president, says the sponsorship program will be open to young farmers aged 18-35 years who are starting, or wanting to start, a farming business in the Northern Rivers region and will include $15,000 in financial assistance and a spot at the market.
‘With the average age of Australian farmers being 56-years-old and ageing, bringing young blood into the agricultural sector is critical to the future of farming,’ she said.
‘We are hoping that our sponsorship program is an effective way to overcome many of the obstacles young farmers face, and that it will be a successful launching pad for them – one in which they are supported both financially and practically.’
Byron Farmers Market is a not-for-profit organisation run by a volunteer committee of farmers and producers and Belinda said the committee had been looking at ways to help young farmers enter the sector.
‘In the past few years, we have seen a number of long-term members of the market retire,’ she said. ‘Sometimes there is another local farmer to fill their shoes, but not always. And starting a farming business can be incredibly daunting to young people, so we thought a sponsorship could help give the support needed and potentially grow the number of young farmers in the area.’
As well as financial support, the successful recipient will also receive business and farming mentoring and the opportunity to have their own stall at Byron Farmers Market every Thursday morning.
Belinda said applicants are required to submit a detailed business plan, including financial projections and growth strategies before the end of September.
The selection criteria for the program, which is being supported by Southern Cross University, is based on the applicant’s potential for success, innovation in farming practices and commitment to sustainable agriculture.
‘Without young farmers, the future of farming in Australia is bleak, so this is a great opportunity for someone to get into the local farming sector and, importantly, run a successful farming business,’ Belinda said.
Applications for the Byron Farmers Market Young Farmer Sponsorship Program close on September 30, 2025. For details, go to www.byronfarmersmarket.com.au/news.
Byron Farmers Market is held every Thursday from 7am to 11am at Butler Street Reserve and Bangalow Farmers Market is held every Saturday morning from 7am to 11am in Piccabeen Park.
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