Unearthing Treasures: How Hunter Markets is Revolutionising Sustainable Style in Melbourne’s Suburbs

Tucked away in a vibrant purple warehouse on Balcombe Road, Mentone, Hunter Markets isn’t just a market—it’s a movement. Founded a decade ago amid the rising tide of fast fashion’s environmental reckoning, this weekend haven for pre-loved fashion has transformed from a humble pop-up into Melbourne’s premier destination for second-hand chic. As shoppers navigate racks brimming with on-trend gems, they’re not merely hunting bargains; they’re actively dismantling the throwaway culture that’s choked our wardrobes and our planet.

Step inside on a bustling Saturday morning, and the air buzzes with the thrill of discovery. The warehouse’s high ceilings and natural light flood the space, illuminating rows of meticulously curated stalls where up to 30 independent sellers showcase their hauls. Here, you’ll find the likes of Dion Lee dresses and Aje blouses rubbing shoulders with affordable fast-fashion finds from brands like Princess Polly and Glassons—all in pristine condition, priced from a cheeky £4 to a splurge-worthy £55. No dusty relics or dated relics here; Hunter Markets prides itself on contemporary pieces that align with today’s trends, making sustainable shopping feel effortless rather than exhaustive.

At the heart of this purple paradise is Sarah Kokkinos, the visionary founder whose passion for preloved fashion ignited the spark in 2015. A former op-shopper turned entrepreneur, Kokkinos spotted a gap in Melbourne’s thrifting scene: the frustration of sifting through endless racks for that one standout piece. “I wanted there to be a place where you were guaranteed to find something cool and still trending,” she recalls in a feature for Broadsheet. “Less trash, more treasure—and less of a sorting process.” What began as a weekend bazaar in a converted industrial space has since drawn thousands, including influencers and fashion editors, who flock to its Instagram-worthy aisles. Kokkinos’s ethos is unapologetically green: by curating high-quality, recent-season items, the market encourages mindful purchases that extend garment lifespans and curb the demand for new production. “Introducing second-hand shopping to the younger generation is a really important movement to slow down their shopping habits and end fast fashion,” she emphasises. “When you shop second-hand, you often buy it because you love it, not because a retailer, fast fashion company, or social media told you to.”

This commitment to curation sets Hunter Markets apart in a city teeming with markets. Unlike sprawling outdoor flea markets or charity shops with unpredictable stock, Hunter’s indoor setup offers a polished, accessible experience—wheelchair-friendly, with unisex bathrooms and even £4 ‘special bins’ for last-minute steals. Stallholders, handpicked for their eye for quality, include local collectors, upcyclers, and savvy resellers who source from op shops, private wardrobes, and online hauls. Applying to trade here is no small feat; vendors must meet strict criteria to ensure every item sparks joy rather than landfill-bound regret. The result? A community-driven space where sustainability meets serendipity, fostering connections among like-minded hunters who swap tips on styling that thrifted Zimmermann top or upcycling those vintage Levi’s.

But Hunter Markets is more than a shopping spree—it’s a social ritual. Weekends see queues snaking around the block, with visitors arriving by train (just a seven-minute stroll from Mentone station) or car (a breezy 45-minute drive from Melbourne’s CBD). Entry is a nominal £1.50, and while most stalls operate on a cash-only basis, the vibe is pure inclusivity. Families browse kids’ wear, twentysomethings hunt statement accessories, and fortysomethings rediscover forgotten favourites. “It’s like therapy for your wardrobe,” shares one regular on Instagram, posting a haul of silk scarves and leather boots. Another visitor raves about the “high-vibe energy” that turns a simple errand into an event, complete with playlist-curated tunes and the faint scent of fresh coffee from nearby pop-ups.

As we hurtle towards 2030’s net-zero ambitions, venues like Hunter Markets are vital threads in the fabric of change. In Australia, where textile waste tops 500,000 tonnes annually, preloved platforms like this one divert countless pieces from incinerators and oceans. Kokkinos envisions expansion—perhaps pop-ups in other suburbs or an online marketplace to extend its reach—but for now, the focus remains on nurturing this bayside gem. “We’re not just selling clothes; we’re selling stories,” she says. And in an era of fleeting trends, those stories—of revival, reuse, and real style—resonate louder than ever.

Whether you’re a seasoned thrifter or a fast-fashion defector dipping your toes, Hunter Markets beckons with the promise of purposeful purchases. Mark your calendar for the next weekend wander: it’s where Melbourne’s fashion future is being stitched, one sustainable seam at a time.

Hunter Markets Contact Details Address: 10-12 Balcombe Road, Mentone, Victoria 3194, Australia Opening Hours: Saturdays 9am–1pm; Sundays 9am–1pm (check social media for updates) Entry: $2 (cash preferred) Website: huntermarkets.com.au Instagram: @huntermarkets Facebook: Hunter Markets For stallholder enquiries or general questions, use the contact form on the website.