Aireys Inlet Market returns

STALLHOLDERS are looking forward to the return of the Aireys Inlet Market this Sunday, October 10 for the start of the 2021- 2022 market season.

The Aireys Inlet Market features a hand-picked selection of the region’s best arts, handcrafted goods, gourmet treats and local produce.

A detailed COVID-Safe plan has allowed the market to continue to operate, with a setup that caters for outdoor-only stalls and one-way direction visitor flow.

With visitor numbers being restricted due to COVID-19, the market is able to cater for a maximum number of 500 people at any one time.

“We are keen to be part of the Aireys market return for this season,” Great Ocean Road Gin’s Ann Houlihan said.

“The market allows us to connect with new and existing customers, to promote our latest gins and encourage visitors to our tasting room and new venue The Gin Kitchen in Aireys.

Local markets are the predominate source of income for many stallholders. With some markets being closed during the year due to COVID, it has been a challenging year for stallholders.

“It’s so important to have the Aireys Inlet Market up and running again this season”, said Helen Kline of Stir Crazy Produce and Cordials.

“The market has an enormous impact on my ability to trade and maintain a viable business.” she said.

The market features 60 stallholders, who are mostly from the local area.

“Around 20 percent of stalls are new to the Aireys Inlet Market, and the remainder are regulars, which helps to ensure market-goers are presented with a mix of fresh creativity, along with old favourites,” market administrator Fay Valcanis said.

Anglesea-based artisan Louise Caithness of Tidal Clocks has come to rely on the Aireys Inlet Market as an important part of her livelihood and ability to live and work on the Surf Coast.

“The Aireys market is one of the consistently best performing markets I have come across. The markets are so well organised and have one of the most comprehensive COVID plans,” she said.

The Aireys Inlet Market will be at the Aireys Inlet Community Hall, 6 Great Ocean Road, on Sunday, October 10 from 9am-1pm.

For more information, head to their website or follow their social media accounts at Facebook or Instagram for updates.