By BRIDGET COOK
THE lid has been lifted on what has been dubbed Cranbourne’s best kept secret.
After eight years in the making, the first Cranbourne Trackside Community Market and Fair will kick off at the racing centre on Saturday 23 November.
The market will be a weekly affair which will not only include a huge range of stalls but also children’s activities, entertainment and harness racing.
Markets to Market managing director Graham Jackman, who is bringing the event to Cranbourne, said it was great to finally get it off the ground.
“Over eight years ago we approached the council to try and bring a market to Cranbourne but we never got it up and running,” he said.
“The past two years we gave it another shot and have looked at a number of venues and ended up with this premium site that is family friendly.
“It’s taken a long time and a lot of frustration to put an event of this size, scope and versatility together.
“It’s been in the melting pot for a long time and the cat has nearly got out of the bag a few times.
“It’s Cranbourne’s best kept secret and I’m glad we can now announce it.”
Mr Jackman said it would be by far the biggest market he has managed and would have a number of great elements.
“It will be ever changing, ever vibrant and community focussed,” he said.
“We are putting on a market that’s really second to none.
“Like a chameleon, we will be changing the flavour of the market from week to week.
“One week the focus will be on a farmers’ market, then arts and crafts, then antique and even a technology focus.
“This will be supplemented with displays, demonstrations, car shows and entertainment for all ages.
“Local charities will have the ability to become involved on a rotational basis to gain exposure and raise money.
“Cranbourne has a large pensioner community so they will not be charged entry to the market.
“We want to involve everyone in this and make it a real community asset.
“We hope the Cranbourne and wider Casey community embrace the event, get involved, enjoy it and use it as a way to promote themselves.”
Mr Jackman said they would be embracing the venue and incorporating the racing side of things into the feel of the market.
“Every second Saturday there will be harness racing trials on so that will add to the excitement,” he said.
“We are encouraging people to bring a picnic rug, enjoy the market and harness racing.
“It will be a great cross synergy of people and families enjoying the market atmosphere, but also the colour, sounds and smells of harness racing.”
The first market will be held on Saturday 23 November from 8am to 2pm at Cranbourne Racing Centre, Grant Street.
For more information or to register to become a stall holder visit www.cranbournetracksidemarket.com.au or call 9462 3515.
