Markets get fresh design Tender winner chases more stalls
TOWNSVILLE’S Cotters Markets is set for an overhaul with Renegade Handmade founder Karissa Chase awarded the tender to lead the revamp.
Townsville City Council appointed Ms Chase ( pictured) to run the markets for at least the next 12 months on the condition she boost the profile and patronage of the weekly event while demonstrating innovative ideas to help it grow.
Rotary Clubs of Townsville had been operating the markets but the council decided on a review and asked for community feedback following falling attendance rates.
Ms Chase’s first Cotters Markets will be on July 16 and she said she wanted the event to become a huge attraction for locals and visitors alike.
“I want to make it a bigger market that is more vibrant and with more stall holders,” sheh said.id “T There is a huge amount of people who like to visit markets and see what is being made and grown.”
Ms Chase, who also owns and operates Renegade Gift Shop in Warrina Arcade, has become well known in the market scene after starting the hugely successful monthly Renegade Handmade market.
She said the changes to Cotters Markets would take time and she was planning a relaunch event soon.
Mayor Jenny Hill said the tender process attracted interest from four individuals and organisations, including the former operators, Rotary.
“As operators of the markets for the past nine years it’s important to acknowledge Rotary and the tremendous job the group has done in preserving the essence of Cotters Markets,” she said.
“While Rotary’s tender was c competitive, Ms Chase prov vided a better plan in her tender which focused on fresh, innovative ideas to revamp our f flagship Sunday markets.
“Markets are an important part of the local economy, providing opportunities for home businesses and start- ups to access their customers and this process has been all about getting the best possible outcome for both stallholders and the community.”
About 1500 residents were surveyed as part of the council review into the markets.
Suggestions including a greater variety of stalls, local produce and handmade products, better entertainment, parking and better management were used to help create the tender document.