There's something special about a market on a crisp Bass Coast morning.
Warming your hands with a hot coffee, friendly chats with stallholders, kids choosing a treat, locals catching up and visitors discovering what makes our towns unique. Markets bring colour, energy and connection to our public spaces - and they play an important role in connecting people to towns Bass Coast.
That's why Bass Coast Shire Council is undertaking a strategic review of markets held across the Shire, particularly those on Council‑managed land, and is inviting the community to help shape the future of markets in our region.
Markets do a lot of good. They activate town centres and foreshore spaces, support local makers and producers, provide fundraising opportunities and enhance the visitor experience. Markets like the Corinella Community Market, Inverloch Farmers Market and the Island Foreshore Market are familiar favourites held on Council land, while popular markets such as the Churchill Island Farmers Market - held on non‑Council land - are major drawcards that add to the region's overall appeal.
At the same time, Council must carefully balance these benefits with other important considerations relating to public safety, amenity, environmental protection, operational capacity and fair and transparent governance.
Bass Coast Mayor Cr Brett Tessari said local markets were close to the heart of the community and to Councillors too.
"I love a good local market. As a Councillor, it's one of the places we're most likely to bump into people, hear what's happening locally and be reminded of just how much talent, creativity and community spirit we have across Bass Coast," Cr Tessari said.
"We've heard clearly from our community that markets matter - not just as places to shop, but as places to connect. This strategic review is about listening, learning and making sure our markets continue to work well for everyone into the future.
"I encourage anyone with a connection to markets to take a few minutes to share their views so we can achieve a great outcome for the whole region."
