HORDES of visitors and locals alike converged on Valla Beach over the October long weekend, with the popular Valla Beach Community Markets enjoying their best attendance in over a decade.
A perfect storm of spring sunshine, school holiday visitors, and the 47th annual Valla Beach Hot Rod Run drew record-breaking crowds to the market, with organisers estimating that between 1,500 and 2,000 people attended the event.
“It’s the biggest market I’ve seen there in 11 years,” Ceri Wrobel from the Valla Beach Community Association told News Of The Area.
“You could honestly say they came in their thousands.”
The market hosted an impressive 84 stalls, showcasing a diverse mix of locally made handicrafts, baked goods, condiments, clothing, plants, produce, and more.
Attendees also enjoyed a wide array of food options, including the ever-popular sausage and steak sandwiches from the Valla Lions Club.
Entertainment was a major drawcard, headlined by renowned musical duo Snez & Stewart, who were followed up by The Valley Line Dancers.
Artists performing at the Community Markets are now able to make the most of a recently constructed state-of-the-art permanent stage and performance space at the Valla Beach Reserve.
The young ones had plenty to keep them engaged with Hulistic Hoops providing lively opportunities for hula hooping throughout the day, while kids also lined up for the ever-popular face painting and a number of free children’s activities.
Last weekend’s markets have organisers and stallholders alike celebrating the turnout as a major win for local enterprise and tourism.
Organisers have now set their sights on the next Valla Beach Community Markets scheduled for Saturday 6 December.
By Mick BIRTLES
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