THE Cockatoo Fire Brigade, as with all volunteer fire brigades, relies on the generosity of the general public to assist with donations to update and maintain fire fighting equipment.
In 1993 after hearing a comment on Burkes Backyard that ‘gardening is Australia’s largest outdoor leisure activity’ it was decided that the brigade would conduct a Plant and Garden Market on the last Sunday in October.
Even though the first market only had 19 stalls it attracted more than 500 people.
Over the years the Plant Market has gained recognition as the place to go to buy a large range of plants and other garden related items.
An animal farm was included to enhance the rural atmosphere for visitors from the metropolitan area.
The October 2002 Plant Market had more than 100 sites and attracted more than 5000 people from all over Victoria.
Many visitors were impressed with the peaceful tree lined location and professional organisation of the market.
Funds raised from the Plant Market, now held twice a year, have been used to purchase a new firefighting vehicle, at a cost of $95,000, for use in Cockatoo and surrounding areas. Many community groups have also been assisted.
Items sold at the market include fruit trees, ornamental trees, ferns, seedlings, shrubs, cottage plants, concrete statues, garden gnomes, wind chimes, bird feeders, manure, groundcovers, outdoor furniture, garden tools, garden lighting, fountains, pots, herbs, cut flowers, cactii, bonsai and much more.
The brigade would like to thank the stallholders and buyers who have all contributed to the success of this event held on the last Sunday in March and the last Sunday in October.
