Aireys Inlet market trading rebounds

AIREYS INLET Market stallholders have reported one of their strongest Januarys ever after a difficult 2020 saw market closures and forced many operators to go online.

The market is famous for its eclectic range of arts, crafts and local produce.

StarShine Jewellery stall holder, Nicky Hulme, relies on the market as an important part of her family’s livelihood and said while it was a challenging winter, summer trading had rebounded strongly.

“While we were still able to keep in contact with people through the Aireys Inlet virtual market – the actual markets have an enormous impact on our ability to trade and maintain a viable business,” Ms Hulme said.

“It’s been a very successful summer for us.”

A detailed COVIDSafe plan allowed for the market’s return which included a new set-up of outdoor-only stalls and a one-way directional flow of people movement.

The market was previously based in the Aireys Inlet Community Hall but organisers say many people actually prefer the new picturesque outdoor setting under the gum trees.

Market administrator, Fay Valcanis, said regular stallholders were a top priority in the post second-wave push.

“Since returning last November, our focus has been on ensuring our regular stallholders are catered for at as many markets as possible, given the difficult year they faced through COVID,” Ms Valcanis said.

“More than 100 stallholders have attended this season, and we have been able to include at least 10 new stallholders.”

The new stalls include Great Ocean Road Gin from Aireys Inlet, Torquay artist Lucy Burke’s Loose Ink Design and Paidi Flynn prints and photos which are inspired by Geelong and the Surf Coast.

The Aireys Inlet Market runs on selected Sundays during the year. Coming market dates are Sunday, February 14 and Sunday, March 7, 9am-1pm.