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Warm Up At Redcliffe Markets Street Party

Story: Lyndal Magee
Published On : Jun 23, 2020
Warm Up  At Redcliffe Markets Street Party
It might be winter, but there will be no hotter place this August than the Redcliffe Farmers and Artisan Markets first-ever street party. Run alongside the usual Sunday market, the Carnival-themed party will bring the sounds, sights and flavours of South America to the foreshore for the first time.

Goodwill Projects owner Mark Power, whose organisation manages the markets, said inspiration for the event came from the surrounding location. The markets now extend 1km along the Redcliffe foreshore, offering a wonderful vista, Mr Power said. We just thought it was a great opportunity for people to not only shop for goods, but also to kick back, relax, see friends and enjoy the beautiful weather along the beach.

The family-friendly event features entertainment from samba dancers and drummers, stilt walkers and fire breathers, along with a petting zoo and jumping castle for the little ones. Salsa dance workshops offer attendees the chance to join in. There will be seven or eight different rotating groups of entertainers, many of them providing traditional entertainment, Mr Power said. The workshop instructors are really vivacious and love getting people involved.

Mr Power said that the best providers of South American street food had been sourced from the east coast of Australia for the day. This emphasis on quality food is something the team at Goodwill Projects has brought to the usual market offerings as well, with stallholders from across South East Queensland providing shoppers with a true 'paddock to plate' experience. We've brought in a lot of specialised offerings, including cheeses, handmade pastas, chutneys, genuine honey, and a lot of organic goods, Mr Power said. This is an important experience to offer, so we've really focused carefully on this aspect.

Along with the recent expansion of the markets has come a renewed focus on quality. Markets where you slap a cardboard box up and zip tie it to a traffic pole, that became unacceptable 20 years ago, Mr Power said.

Markets must be very dynamic, evolving, and engaging spaces.

Mr Power said the public might be surprised to know just how much time goes into the market behind the scenes. We're there at two o'clock in the morning every Sunday. The markets don't start until 8am, he said. That gives you some idea of the time and attention that goes into setting it all up. We've received some wonderful feedback in regards to the little touches.

 
REDCLIFFE FARMERS AND ARTISAN MARKETS STREET PARTY*
SUNDAY 2 AUGUST 8AM-2PM
(MARKETS RUN EVERY SUNDAY)
REDCLIFFE PARADE

*As advice regarding COVID-19 is constantly evolving and safety of attendees is paramount, this event is subject to change. Check the Redcliffe Markets Facebook page for up to date information.