The next chapter of Echunga’s favourite farm shop has officially begun, and it’s looking delightfully eclectic.
Formerly known as Farm Gate Services, the local business has relaunched as Echunga Trading Co, marking a new era with the same warm, family-run energy.
After recently selling the agricultural services side of the business, owners Cathy and Ashley Day are now focusing entirely on their thriving shop in the heart of the Adelaide Hills.
“Although the Farm Shop is now eight years old, we’ve never really had the time to finish it properly,” Cathy says.
“Now that we can give it our full attention, it finally feels complete.”
The name change reflects more than a new focus. It captures the spirit of what the shop has become.
“We sell everything from chook feed to antique gates,” Cathy laughs.
“The new direction is much exclusive retail and the garden essentials for the weekend warriors.”
“Echunga Trading Co has an old-school ring to it, and it fits the vintage feel of the place while covering the wide range of products we stock, from rural supplies to coffee to rustic gardenware and everything in between.”
That “everything in between” now includes a brand new café space, where you can sip locally roasted coffee, enjoy homemade cakes, and classic jaffles and creamy milkshakes.
“It’s simple, honest food you can grab when you’re on the run or enjoy slowly with friends by the fire,” Cathy says.
Locals have embraced the new look, and the outdoor seating and servery area have already become a favourite on sunny Hills days.
“Our Echunga regulars are the best. They love the homely atmosphere and a good chat with Ash over coffee, of course.”
Inside, the shop remains a colourful mix of vintage charm, practical finds and unique curiosities. From enamel signs to antique gates and handpicked homewares, everything on the shelves tells a story.
“We’ve always loved surrounding ourselves with things we adore,” Cathy says.
“We have an old enamel sign that reads ‘Everything for the Home, Garden, Farm and Station.’ That really inspired our vision, minus the station!”
It’s also a showcase for local talent, with a growing selection of handmade items and artworks on display.
“There are so many clever and artistic people in the Hills, and so many from right here in Echunga,” Cathy says.
“We love blending art and vintage, and we’re always discovering more.”
Running a business as a family has been a full-circle journey. Ash, a former farmer, and Cathy, a lawyer, dreamed up the idea while travelling in the UK, inspired by traditional farm shops.
Today, their kids help run the café and even sell produce, with youngest daughter Poppy now known for her homegrown lemons.
“Our regulars know all the kids by name. It’s lovely seeing them chatting to customers and taking part in what we’ve built.”
Looking ahead, the family has big plans. They’re expanding their garden and rural supply range and preparing to host local events and art workshops.
“Ash is always out picking. You never know what he’ll come back with next. His aim is to have something for everyone,” Cathy laughs.
With a renewed focus, a growing community and more than a few treasures in store, Echunga Trading Co is proving that a little reinvention goes a long way.
Echunga Trading Co
Where: 4 Angus Road, Echunga
When: Monday-Friday 9am-5pm, Saturday 10am-3pm, Sunday 11am-3pm.
For more information, click here.
More News
