When I first began my own Zero Waste journey it was a struggle to find affordable bulk produce and Zero Waste essentials. After much gallivanting around Brisbane with my glass jars and reusable bags in tow, I’ve finally handpicked my favourite Zero Waste Brisbane resources.
To make your transition to Zero Waste easier I’ve compiled my personal list of bulk stores and markets around Brisbane which I think are the best places to go if you’re looking for package free products and produce which don’t cost an arm, a leg or the earth.
My favourite Zero Waste Brisbane resource store providing you with eco-friendly alternatives for everything from reusable coffee cups to clothes pegs. Definitely worth checking out, I could easily spend hours exploring their shelves of extensive products. They even have a beautiful beauty bar section at the Indooroopilly store for all your DIY beauty needs.
Locations: Brisbane city, Balmoral, Indooroopilly, Paddington
This Zero Waste Brisbane resource is a hidden gem, where Corinne hand makes her own natural beauty products on site. Her products contain absolutely no nasties with bulk ingredients available for you to experiment with your own DIY beauty projects. There is also a little organic produce section and a wide range of Zero Waste alternatives to check out.
Location: 7 Gladstone Road, Highgate Hill
Bulk Stores
The most affordable Zero Waste bulk food store in Brisbane (in my opinion anyway). Offering everything from bulk cleaning products, every type of flour under the sun and the biggest selection of bulk confectionery I’ve ever seen. You don’t even have to take your own jars as they have reusable bags and a wide variety of jars for sale too. Definitely a must visit on the Zero Waste Brisbane resources list.
Location: Bayside Shopping Village 194-200 Old Cleveland Road, Capalaba
Your one stop shop for a coffee and all things Zero Waste, organic and in bulk. I love the large variety of bulk produce this place offers including nuts, pasta, flour, herbs and spices, tea, dried fruit and confectionery. This is my local Zero Waste Brisbane resource if I can't make it to Grandma's pantry.
Location: 5/1230 Logan Road, Mt Gravatt
More Bulk Stores
Other bulk Zero Waste Brisbane resources include Flannerys Organic & Wholefood Market, The Source Bulk Foods and Wray Organic however I do find that they are a little on the pricier side.
Farmers Markets
Brisbane has a bustling market scene with multiple locations available for you to find farm-fresh local produce and treasure hunt for that second hand gem you’ve been searching for.
Saturday
These markets boast a vibrant, busy atmosphere where you can find handmade butter, cheeses and pastries along with local crafts and great eateries. Bring along your reusable bags and jars as Sovereign Foods sells produce in bulk too. The fresh pasta man can also be found here. It’s pretty busy here on a Saturday so be prepared to walk if you don’t want to pay $3 for parking however entry to the markets is free.
Location: Corner of Jane St and Montague Rd, West End
Time: 06:00PM – 02:00PM
You’ll be overwhelmed by the variety of choices in produce and food at the biggest markets in Brisbane. The shouting matches between the produce stalls trying to outdo their competitors in price and volume are hilarious to watch, just adding to the already hectic atmosphere. The food here is the definitely the best in terms of variety and quality plus the sweet and salty popcorn is the best you’ll find around (don’t get it anywhere else!). There’s a great seedling lady here and a ton of plants available, the Brisbane Flower Market is also across the road if you can’t find what you’re looking for. The spices stall is a must visit as it an extensive range of bulk spices and teas available. Remember to bring along your reusables to complete your visit to this biggest Zero Waste Brisbane resource.
These markets are transformed on a Sunday where the produce stalls are replaced by a treasure trove of second hand goods. Guaranteed you’ll find that hidden gem you’ve been searching for!
Location: 252 Sherwood Road, Rocklea
Time: 06:00AM – 12:00PM
The Jan Powers Farmers Markets have been putting local Aussie farmers firmly on the map with Saturday markets at the Powerhouse and Manly. Each bustling market sells quality products including farm fresh produce, flowers, breads, meats, bagels, honey and more. Grab some scrumptious breakfast and stroll through the colourful stalls at this Zero Waste Brisbane resource, to support your local businesses against a beautiful backdrop of the Brisbane River or Bay front.
Location (Powerhouse): 119 Lamington St, New Farm
Time: 06:00AM – 12:00PM
Location (Manly): Royal Esplanade, Manly
Time: 06:00AM – 12:00PM Every 1st and 3rd Saturday each month
Sunday
Brisbane’s Inner West markets provide food, entertainment and lively vibes. Their produce selection includes Queensland’s local meats, seafood and eggs along with fruit and veg. There’s also a bulk nut man and the fresh pasta man. Cheap parking and free entry makes these markets a must visit on this list of Zero Waste Brisbane resources.
Location: 47 Cribb Street, Milton
Time: 06:00AM -12:00PM
If you love the hunt for second hand treasure along with your weekly produce, the Mt Gravatt market is the Zero Waste Brisbane resource for you. The produce selection consists of a wide variety of produce stalls including organic fruit and veg, with Queensland meat and handmade gnocchi also available. There’s always a couple plant stalls along with great food and free parking with an entry fee of $2.
Location: 1644 Logan Road, Mt Gravatt
Time: 06:00AM -12:00PM
Get your reusable bags and keep cups ready for the ultimate Zero Waste Brisbane resource markets. These markets offer purely organic produce and showcase eco-friendly products created by low impact crafters, clothing designers and artists. There is even a Brisbane City Farm Nursery you can wander through and admire the veggie patches, herbs and dodge the odd chicken. Take the opportunity to learn from their self-sustainable experts about worm farms, edible plants, native bee hives, insect hotels and more!
Location: Corner of Northey Street & Victoria Street, Windsor
Time: 06:00AM -11:00PM
One of Brisbane’s original markets, the Cleveland markets have been operating for over 30 years. Providing fresh produce including organic fruit and veg, handmade cheeses, pastries and local crafts. There’s not a wide variety of food stalls here but the gluten free donuts are fresh and delicious plus there are numerous cafes around too. Entry to the markets are free with street parking and dogs are allowed.
Location: Bloomfield St, Cleveland
Time: 06:00AM -13:00PM
Located at the heritage listed Eagle Farm Racecourse in Ascot, these markets offer a wide variety of quality produce to fill your pantry. This Zero Waste Brisbane resource market boasts three fabulous meat and seafood stall holders along with exotic bulk spices, freshly baked bread, package free salami and olives in bulk. You’ll be spoiled for choice of breakfast food items and every two months there’s a closet clean out where you can find barely worn brand-name clothes, shoes and accessories. Ample free parking is available with a $2 entry fee to the markets.
Location: 230 Lancaster Rd, Ascot
Time: 06:00AM -12:30PM
Wednesday
The Jan Powers Farmers Market brings the country to the city. Providing city goers with their dose of fresh produce, honey, bread, bagels, meat, seafood, pasta and small goods. These markets are a lovely way to break up the work week and enjoy a delicious lunch whilst gathering your local provisions at a Zero Waste Brisbane resource in the heart of the city.
Location: George St (end of the Queen Street Mall), Brisbane City
Time: 10:00AM -06:00PM
Have I missed your favourite Zero Waste Brisbane resource? Let me know in the comments below!