A three-month trial – during which all dogs will have to be kept on a leash and restrained to more than a metre from food stalls – has been implemented after a poll of stallholders and visitors indicated they would make a welcome addition to the event.

Georgie Hollingworth and her three children Millicent, Adeline and Gabriel were among those taking their pets for a walk at Saturday’s markets.

“We’ve been very excited about the change, we can now bring the whole family,” Ms Hollingworth said.

Susannah Bell and Paddy Williams came to the markets with their Airedale Terrier, John.

“It’s for nice for dog owners since dogs are such a big part of people’s lives, and it’s great to be able to include them in community events,” Susannah said.

Jennifer Derrick brought her Border Collie Bailey – who she described as the “only child who hasn’t left home” – to the city’s civic precinct to inspect the goods on sale.

“She comes everywhere with us,” Mrs Derrick said.

Bob and Cheryl Fuller, who are travelling around Australia, said their toy poodle Misty was a regular visitor to other farmers markets across the nation.