Ballarat Lakeside Farmer's Market

It's an amazing time of year for fresh produce, and while winter may seem devoid of seasonal delights on the surface - dig a little deeper, there's plenty to discover.

I'd highly recomend a trip to your local farmer's market this weekend for the freshest and best winter produce. In season at the moment - turnips, swedes, red and green kohlrabi, celeriac and beetroot, and you might be lucky enough to find lovely fresh Jerusalem artichokes.

Also brilliant at this time of year are leafy asian greens, brussel sprouts, cabbages, cauliflowers, spinach, silver beet and spring onions.

I'm also trying my first batches of olives this year - so keep an eye out for a ripening tree to plunder or boxes at your local markets.

If you're in the Ballarat region - The Lakeside Farmer's Markets kicks off at 9am till 1pm - opposite the Botanic Gardens by Lake Wendouree. Take some time to chat with the stall holders - they're a friendly bunch and will give you all of the tips and hints you need to make the most of fantastic local produce.