Winter in Queensland provides a great opportunity for fruit and vegetable growers, thanks to the mild climate, lower humidity, and abundant sunshine. The winter season offers ideal conditions for producing a wide range of high-quality fresh produce, from vibrant leafy greens to premium citrus fruits. So be sure to look out for some winter staples as well as other produce lines in good supply at your local independent A better choice! store supplied by wholesalers at the Brisbane Markets.
This week, our top pick is Eggplant. Freshly harvested from around the Glasshouse Mountains, Bowen and South Australia, Eggplants are not only great value right now, but they are also packed with health benefits. Rich in iron and calcium, Eggplant supports strong bone health, making it a smart choice for your winter meals. Whether you fry it, slice it, purée it, or crumb it, Eggplant is as adaptable as it is delicious. For something hearty and satisfying, try a winter favourite: Eggplant Parma. If you are more of a charcuterie board kind of person, these dips will not disappoint: Eggplant and Beetroot Dip and Baba Ghanoush.
Continental Cucumbers from Lowood, Wide Bay, and South Australia are in strong supply and of excellent quality. A staple in any fresh salad, Cucumbers add a refreshing crunch and clean flavour to a wide range of dishes. For a quick and vibrant side, try a Watermelon and Cucumber Salad – a perfect match for warm winter days and light meals.
Grown in the Lockyer Valley around Gatton, Wombok – also known as Chinese Cabbage – is at its peak this week. Highly versatile and much-loved for its mild flavour and crisp texture, Wombok is a must-have ingredient for hearty winter stir-fries, soups, salads, and, of course, homemade dumplings. It’s an excellent addition to any produce display this season.
Bundaberg continues to supply outstanding Hass Avocados, offering premium quality and exceptional value. With their creamy texture and rich flavour, Avocados are a kitchen all-rounder — perfect for breakfast toast, lunchtime salads, or paired with proteins at dinner. Their consistency and versatility make them a must-have with any meal.
Renowned for their crisp texture and sweet juiciness, Pink Lady Apples from New South Wales and Victoria are coming through the Brisbane Markets in excellent condition. Ideal as an on-the-go snack or a healthy lunchbox filler, these Apples are not only delicious but also rich in vitamin C, fibre, and antioxidants. With strong supply and attractive prices, now is the perfect time to add them to your shopping basket.
For fresh, quality and locally grown produce, shop where you see the A better choice! logo, knowing that you are supporting Australian farmers.
About Brisbane Markets
As Queensland’s only central fruit and vegetable market, the Brisbane Markets is the state’s most important centre for the marketing and distribution of fresh fruit and vegetables. It records an annual trade of over 700 million kilograms of produce valued at more than $2 billion.
An important economic and employment hub, more than 4,500 people work or do business at the markets each day through over 170 businesses. This includes over 45 wholesalers who receive fresh produce from over 7,000 growers and trade five days a week to more than 800 registered buyers.
