More markets on the way

THE Noosa riverfront may soon be host to monthly twilight markets with discussions well underway between members of Noosaville Business Association and Noose MP Glen Elmes for the project.
The initiative follows the trial of the Thomas Street markets over six months last year and while the markets proved popular, issues were raised in regards to parking.
Local business owners were concerned that an appropriate traffic management plan wasn’t put in place by the market owners to stop people from using private property as parking.
Mr Elmes said he believed the proposed new markets would be held in a different location to ease the problems surrounding parking.
The Noosaville Business Association’s Paul Blundell said the markets, which will sell a variety of ready to eat foods, showcase local artisans and live music and provide activities for the kids, had been a top priority following the trial and that he is excited to bring them to life.
“At the moment we are looking at around 50 stalls to start with, with the focus on, but not limited to, local products,” Mr Blundell said.
“The aim is to create a place where locals can relax and mingle with their families on a Friday evening.”
Strongly supportive of the initiative, Mr Elmes said the markets were a great way to not only enhance community spirit but increase tourism and provide another reason for visitors to extend their weekend stay in the shire.
“There is currently no night market in Noosa,” Mr Elmes said.
“This is a free community thing to go to, where you can bring your family along and enjoy the atmosphere without an admission fee and therefore can be enjoyed by all members of the community.”
Mr Elmes is confident that the markets will complement rather than detract from the trade of local businesses in the area.
“These markets will bring extra people to the area, people will come to the markets and then spread out going to the bars and restaurants afterwards,” Mr Elmes said.
“And by having the markets adjacent and away from the local businesses it will free up places like Gympie Terrace allowing the markets to complement the businesses already there.”
Businesses in the area will also be encouraged to take part in the markets, with stalls of their own to showcase their products.
“People want to have somewhere to relax and chill out on a Friday evening,” Noosa Boathouse owner and member of Noosaville Business Association Phil Bradford said.
“Noosaville is so rich in food and it will be a way to utilise the riverfront.”
The next step for the proposal is council approval.
If that is given it is hoped the markets will be up and running in September.