Kiama Council recently announced the successful appointment of two market operators for Blowhole Point Reserve (Black Beach) and Coronation Park.
This will see popular local markets the Kiama Seaside Market (operated by the Kiama and District Business Chamber) and Kiama Farmers' Market continue their regular operations at the two locations.
The licences are for five years, although fees are paid annually. (Note: a previous press release said the licences were for 12 months, we apologise for this error).
Kiama Farmers' Market operator Tricia Ashelford said, while she experienced some "teething problems" with the new Markets EOI process, she appreciated Council's willingness to engage throughout.
"I'm relieved to have the EOI process out of the way so I can get on with the business of running the markets each week. It's heartening to know I can have a frank and honest conversation with the CEO and Mayor and we can sort out solutions that work for everyone concerned."
"Five years is great, because it gives assurance. We wouldn't be in a position to make capital investments such as vehicles or fencing if the licence was only for 1 year."
"I appreciate that costs may change, but the main thing is knowing we're secure with our licence for the next five."
"Now we can get on with what we do best: proving a way for local growers and farmers to make a living, a place where kids can play dress ups and a market with a great sense of community," Ms Ashelford said.
Natalie Spowart from the Kiama Business Chamber, said: "We're thrilled to have confirmation of a 5-year licence and to know we can continue to provide this service to the community. The security of a five-year licence will help me grow and expand the Kiama Seaside Markets."
"It's nice to have a few a years up our sleeve. We've been growing and this means we can continue to make our market bigger and better."
Michael Emmet, also from the Kiama Business Chamber, agreed "We've pleased to have five years so we can get our long-term growth plan in place."
In further optimistic news for local markets, Kiama Councillor Matt Brown has put forward a Notice of Motion for Council to consider providing 3-phase power in Coronation Park, to better support community events held in the park, such as the Farmers' Market. Council will consider this motion at its Ordinary Meeting on 20 June.
Market info
Kiama Farmers' Market is held every Wednesday afternoon at Coronation Park (Surf Beach) or in the grounds of Kiama Uniting Church during wet weather.
Kiama Seaside Markets is held on the third Sunday of every month, with an additional four special-occasion markets per year (eg: New Year's Eve).
Photo L-R: Natalie Spowart and Michael Emmett (both from Kiama Business Chamber), Kiama Mayor Neil Reilly, Tricia Ashelford (Kiama Farmers' Market)
