Community
20 June, 2024
Market thrives
THE inaugural Terang Makers Market has received rave reviews after hundreds of visitors descended on the Civic Hall.
The concept to host an indoor market launched on Saturday, with around 40 local stallholders showcasing their goods, all of which were made in the south west.
Event organiser Anne Gready said she was “so happy” with the turnout, which surpassed even the most optimistic of expectations.
“I was hoping for a response like this but I didn’t think we would get so many people,” she said.
“I thought it would be a bit slower to take off.”
Visitors on the day included those from Terang and surrounds, in addition to visitors from further afield, which Ms Gready said had raised awareness of the quality of goods made locally.
“The feedback we’re getting has been wonderful,” she said.
“I’m especially happy to have had so many people saying they did not know all of this was being made locally.
“That’s really wonderful.
“Why go to Warrnambool to shop when you’ve got all of this here?”
Ms Gready thanked the stallholders, volunteers and members of the Rotary Club of Terang, who supported the efforts with manpower and a barbecue at the entrance.
“It’s just been amazing,” she said.
“It’s blown me away.
“There have been so many positive comments from locals who have said how amazing it has been, so we couldn’t be happier.”
Ms Gready said one of the things she was most proud of was the decision to not have food vans, which resulted in large volumes of shoppers filtering down High Street and supporting local businesses after departing the Makers Market.
“The businesses get supported, as do the local makers,” she said.
“It really was a win-win for everyone.”
Two dates remain on inaugural schedule for the Terang Makers Market, which returns on on Saturday, July 20 and Saturday, August 17 – both of which remain from 9am to 1pm at the Civic Hall, Terang.
Ms Gready said there will be additional new stallholders next month to keep things fresh.
“There will be extra stallholders because the waiting list is getting bigger,” she said.
“We’ll take on board what is available locally and support them because they buy their groceries here and in all the other towns across the area.
“If you were not able come to the first Makers Market, we would love to see you at the next one because this is just marvellous.”