43 years of a Sunday tradition

CAN you cast your mind back to 1979, and the first-ever four-stall Trash ‘n’ Trivia event?

Now simply named the Ballarat Market, the Sunday tradition at the showgrounds is a fundraising initiative led by the Rotary Club of Ballarat South, and the group is marking its 43rd anniversary, alongside their stalwart stallholders.

For many locals, young and old, the market is an outing they look forward to. Lots head along for a bunch of flowers, or maybe a hot jam donut, while others strive to find the perfect bargain along the Car Boot Alley.

All funds raised at the Ballarat Market gate go towards the Rotary Club’s local and international projects, and Helen Newall, Rotarian and organiser, said she’s proud to be part of the institution.

“It is a meeting place, a weekly outing, or a day out, and has been for over 40 years,” she said.

“It is a staple in Ballarat’s history, and Rotarians are proud to be a part of something that has benefited so many, both as an event, and because of the work we do outside of it.

“We are here every Sunday, rain, hail, or shine.”

Rotary Club of Ballarat South’s community projects include school breakfast programs, art and science scholarships, rubbish clean-up days, and donations to grassroot groups.

The club is more than 50 years old, and it’s estimated between $8 million and $9 million has been raised by its Rotarians, with a large proportion of these funds collected at the market.

“The Rotary Club of Ballarat South would like to thank the community for their support of the market, and we hope to continue supporting the community for many years to come,” Ms Newall said.