Nifra Poultry: a family-run market staple

For nearly two decades, Nifra Poultry has been a staple of the Queen Victoria Market (QVM), known not just for its premium free-range poultry, but for its unique range of game meats – from crocodile to camel.

Since taking over the stall in 2006, owner Chris has worked alongside his father, sister and brother-in-law to grow the family-run business into a destination for both classic poultry and more adventurous fare.

“My father used to work next door and when the man who owned the business wanted to sell, Dad helped us get in – we’ve now been here for 19 years,” Chris said.

Specialising in premium, free-range products from Hazeldenes Chicken in Lockwood, and an assortment of poultry cuts, Nifra has evolved into something of a hidden gem for adventurous eaters.

“I’ve introduced the game meats – crocodile, venison, wild boar, emu, buffalo and camel,” he said.

Despite their exotic reputation, Chris said customers were often surprised by how approachable and easy these meats were to cook.

Crocodile and venison, in particular, have become top sellers.

“People just cook it like fish. It’s got a slightly tougher texture, and people usually season it with some lemon and a bit of salt.”

In addition to poultry and game, Chris also produces a small-batch range of rendered animal fats – including beef tallow, duck fat, chicken fat and pork lard – which he makes himself on site.

“I’m getting some new labels and a fresh logo,” he added, hinting at exciting updates to come.

But the work doesn’t stop behind the counter.

On top of running the stall, Chris also handles many of the business’s deliveries, often clocking in long hours to meet customer demand.

“Most days, I work maybe 12 hours,” he told CBD News.

That passion, he said, was fuelled by the relationships he had built with his regulars over nearly two decades at the market.

“I love interacting with customers,” Chris said.

“Being a small business, I’m the face of it. People know it’s my business, and the regulars know me – I just love what I do.”

From traditional free-range chicken to wild game and artisanal fats, Nifra Poultry continues to offer something for everyone – driven by hard work and a dedication to quality produce. •