To Market, To Market

 

A trip to the nearest market is a popular past-time for our Members and motorhomers in general. They are ideal places to pick up the latest bargains, plus they often feature unique items you wouldn’t find in retail stores. There are so many fantastic markets out there, so we thought we’d share a few of our favourites.

Tasmania

With over 300 stallholders, the Salamanca Markets are one of the top tourist attractions in Tasmania. Operating since 1972, these markets highlight Tasmania’s fine art and craft, hand-worked glass and ceramics, and a number of other items made directly by stallholders. You can also have breakfast at the Salamanca bistro or take in the sights and sounds of the surrounding waterfront and commercial district.

When: Every Saturday, 8.30am - 3pm
Where: Salamanca Place, Hobart
Contact: 03 6238 2843, www.salamanca.com.au

NSW

Sydney’s Paddy’s Markets are located at both Haymarket and Flemington and have become an Australian icon, operating officially since 1834. They are Sydney’s biggest markets, featuring over 1,000 stalls in two big locations, and they sell every sort of item you could imagine. Paddy’s also showcases different community groups through a series of cultural events.

When: For Haymarket- every Thursday, Friday, Saturday, Sunday and Public Holiday Monday, 9am - 5pm (check website for Flemington times).
Where: Cnr Thomas and Hay Street, Haymarket
Contact: 02 9325 6200, www.paddysmarkets.com.au

Northern Territory

The Palmerston Markets are family-friendly markets which have been running for over 24 years. These markets feature over 100 stalls, which incorporate the diverse backgrounds of the local population. Thousands of Rainbow Lorikeets also like to pay a visit to these markets.

When: Friday nights between April and November, 5.30pm - 9.30pm
Where: Goyder Square, Palmerston
Contact: 08 8988 4124, info@palmerstonmarkets.org.au or visit www.palmerstonmarkets.org.au

Australia Capital Territory

The Old Bus Depot Market is Canberra’s premier market, and a National Tourism Award-winning venue. Held in a fabulous old industrial building, the market features everything from multicultural food to unique gifts. Themed markets are held throughout the year, and upcoming themes include the Celebration of Wool on May 17 and Creative Fibre on July 12. These markets have excellent disabled facilities.

When: Every Sunday 10am-4pm
Where: Wentworth Ave, Kingston Foreshore, Canberra
Contact: 02 6292 8391 or 02 6239 5306, www.obdm.com.au

Victoria

The Queen Victoria Market was officially opened in 1878, and over the last 130 years the site has served as a cemetery, livestock market and fruit and vegetable market. Today the markets are spread over seven hectares, making it the largest open air market in the southern hemisphere, and with almost 1000 traders on site, it’s no wonder the market attracted over 9.5 million visitors last year. There is also a night market, which takes place during the summer months.

When: Open every day except Monday, Wednesday, and most public holidays. Opening hours vary, check the website for more information.
Where: Cnr of Elizabeth and Victoria Streets, Melbourne
Contact: 03 9320 5822, www.qvm.com.au/home.php

QLD

The Brisbane Markets incorporate a produce market, flower market and more. The produce market is Queensland’s most important centre for the distribution of fruit and vegetables, with around 600,000 tonnes passing through it each year. The markets are located on 72 hectares, and are now a popular tourist attraction. So why not stock up the motorhome with the finest in fresh honey, bread and more.

When: Each market section has varying open times. Refer to the website for more information.
Where: Sherwood Road, Rocklea
Contact: 07 3915 4200, admin@brisbanemarkets.com.au www.brisbanemarkets.com.au

South Australia

The Fullarton Plant and Craft Market has over 80 exhibitors presenting a huge selection of plants, pottery, woodwork, collectables and more. Exhibitors at the markets include Milla Designs and Florentines, which produces cakes and other goodies. For a full list, visit the website.

When: 4th Saturday of each month, 9am – 1pm
Where: Cnr of Fullarton Rd and Fisher St, Fullarton
Contact: 0417 836 912, info@fullartonmarket.com.au www.fullartonmarket.com.au

Western Australia

The E-Shed Markets are the only waterfront markets in WA and are located in a stunning historical building, which has been part of the area for almost 100 years. The markets are located close to the Fremantle Maritime Museum, and feature a large alfresco terrace overlooking the harbour. These markets contain a wide variety of products, as well as an international food court, amusement centre and live bands.
When: Every Friday, Saturday and Sunday, 9am till 5.30pm
Where: Victoria Quay, Fremantle
Contact: 08 9430 6393, management@eshedmarkets.com.au www.eshedmarkets.com.au/index.htm

So, no matter where you are on the road, why not drop in and experience a local market and its associated culture.

The CMCA Team