Meden Vale mum launches 'carboot for the community' with sale trail group for residents

A sale trail is an online network of residents selling products from their front gardens.

Items sold on the trail include homemade products from small businesses, and pre-loved items from households.

Abi Baker, founder of the group, said she launched the trail after finding the carboot process a “challenge” between childcare and transport.

Abi, owner of small gifting business Koala Kisses, runs the Meden Vale and surrounding areas sale trail group on Facebook.

See www.facebook.com/groups/323852593374608

The mum-of-two said: “I found it challenging to keep up with carboots and wanted something that worked for us as a family.

“The sale trail is perfect for that, especially if you love a car boot but may be unable to attend events for various reasons.

“Our sale trail is essentially a carboot in your own garden, with every house taking part listed like a treasure hunt on a map.”

Abi launched the group’s first trail in September, with a second “successful” session in October.

She added: “Many people wanted to be a part of another one, so it really took off from there.

“There clearly is an interest in the area for it, and it also brings the community together.”

From 10 registered sellers to 18, the trail is expanding with each event.

During the first event in October, Meden Vale Village Hall served as a pitstop for buyers – providing hot drinks along the trail.

When asked about the feedback from previous events, Abi said: “It is a trial and error process.

“I welcome feedback from the events, and run online polls for the group to improve each time.

“It is helpful to know what works for both buyers and sellers.

“People have already expressed interest in alternate days on a weekend to include more residents.

“We are flexible with timings each event, and sellers aim to keep the community updated on the group.”

Abi said she will liaise with group members on setting up future trail dates, with the intention of waiting for warmer weather.

Anyone interested in getting involved can contact Abi through the Facebook group.