Following the sad news that Brisbane icon Jan Power passed away on August 31, 2024, there has been an outpouring of support from the Brisbane community.
Ms Power’s family released a statement on September 2 which said:
“It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of our mother and grandmother -Brisbane icon, Jan Power; who left us peacefully in her sleep on Saturday night.
“Jan was a beloved and vibrant figure in the Brisbane community. A cook, media personality and journalist, she was renowned for her passion for fresh produce, commitment to supporting local farmers, her transformation of the city’s food scene and deep love of The Arts.
“Jan’s legacy is one of community, good humor, and the celebration of good food. She leaves behind a rich heritage that will continue to inspire and she will be greatly missed.
“Jan’s motto: “Life is uncertain, always eat desert first.”
“And self-professed aim in life: “to popularise the benefits of apathy and the attractiveness of the Queensland choko. Both highly underestimated.”
“Brisbane has lost a true pioneer, but her spirit will live on in the markets she founded over 30 years ago which we continue to run in her name; the farmers she supported, and the many people who share her passion for food and art.”
In the June Village Voice, we published an interview with Astrid Gates, daughter of Jan Power and Jan Powers Farmers Markets Managing Director.
The powerful family bond behind the Powerhouse markets
By Evie Drinnan
What did Jan do before she started the markets?
Mum has had lots of careers and businesses: registered nurse, owner of a rhubarb farm at Mt Tamborine, a children’s shop called Tadpoles, a catering company, and various restaurants including Her Majesty’s Behind, located behind Her Majesty’s Theatre. She was a food critic for the Courier Mail, and had TV shows. She was very well known.
How did Jan’s childhood shape her future in markets?
Mum was born at Glen Innes and grew up on two sheep stations, one of which had the most amazing cherry trees.
Because of her country childhood and life experience, she knew a lot of farmers. They started calling her, asking how to sell their products.
She leased a car park behind James St in New Farm and the markets were born. Her farming contacts sold their produce out the back of trucks, and eventually set up stalls. That was 32 years ago.
In 2000, she got a lease at the Powerhouse, and the markets have been there ever since.
What sets Jan Powers Farmers Markets apart from other markets in Brisbane?
The quality. Mum is very strict about it. If your product is not up to scratch or if your stall doesn’t look good, you’re out. We get 20 stall applications a week, but we only accept the very best, around 11%.
Also, we are a continuous family-run enterprise. Mum still owns it, I’m managing director, my husband does the photography, website and social media, and my three daughters contribute. Emily is the events manager and general manager, and the other two help with the social media on top of their full-time jobs.
