Gembrook Market makes a grand entrance

PEOPLE flocked to Gembrook on Sunday as the town came alive with the launch of its new monthly market.
Blue skies and warm weather ensured perfect conditions, and complemented the rich variety of stallholders offering different products, according to market committee chairman John Cascone.
“We had the right recipe for success, and feedback from stallholders and marketgoers was that the day was a hit with everyone,” Mr Cascone said.
“The town was also extra busy, so traders who have supported our efforts also received a bonus the market really put Gembrook on the map,” he said.
The market’s theme of promoting sustainable living attracted a broad selection of stalls, with original and unusual items made from recycled materials, natural or organic products and handcrafted goods on offer.
Educators explained how to grow and collect the seeds of local indigenous plants and protect the bushland and environment, and the Active Catchment Education trailer from Melbourne Water and Keep Australia Beautiful described the journey of rain falling onto the landscape and reaching the bay and water catchments.
Gembrook MP Tammy Lobato helped declare the market officially open and also was among the stallholders.
Food stalls were in demand, with the Gembrook RSL helping to feed the hungry hordes with a host of sausages.
The queues were also long for fresh coffee and Dutch poffertjes, and the animal nursery was a popular attraction.
Entertainers Pam and Meg, and Joe Hilder and his Gembrook Bush Band kept the crowds entertained.
The unique attraction of a Puffing Billy market train steaming into the marketplace at lunchtime added to the festive air, Mr Cascone said.
“With around 50 stalls at our first market and another 20 stallholders wanting to join us in September we surpassed our expectations. The day was a winwin for everyone,” he said.
Cardinia Shire councillor Leonora Cox said she was thrilled to see the market up and running.
She paid tribute to the market committee for its hard work in bringing the event together.
The Gembrook Market will next be held on Sunday, September 25 between 9am and 3pm.
Information about becoming a stall holder can be obtained by phoning 0437 664 121.