New Sustainable Market to launch at Southport 9 February 2013

The award winning Broadwater Parklands at Southport will boost its eco-credentials with the launch of Produce by the Pier, a new market that champions sustainability and features fresh, high-quality local produce.

The selection of suitable farmers and food producers to operate stalls is underway after Gold Coast City Council has appointed one of the most successful market operators in Australia, Blue Sky Events, to create and manage Produce by the Pier.

Local produce suppliers, as well as local artisans and designers who work with reused, reworked and recycled materials, are encouraged to apply for a stall.

The new market will inspire sustainable living and celebrate the health and vitality of coastal lifestyles, according to Blue Sky Events Director Ross Alexander.

Mr Alexander described the Broadwater Parklands as a dream venue for operator and visitors.

“Produce by the Pier will be located in one of the most scenic and prestigious venues on the Gold Coast.

“We want this exciting new market to become a Saturday ritual for Gold Coast residents who care about sustainability and quality produce,” Mr Alexander said.

Produce by the Pier will run every second and fourth Saturday of the month from 7am to 12pm and will launching in 2013 on February 9.

As well as the regular stall offerings, market days will include special events to showcase sustainable ideas, initiatives and innovations that will demonstrate how Gold Coasters can adopt a more sustainable lifestyle.

Mr Alexander said the new market aimed to be at the forefront of Australia’s sustainability movement.

“Produce by the Pier will bring something new to the Gold Coast market scene, and aims to create community groundswell around ‘green living’ and ultimately become one of the country’s most sustainable markets,” he said.

Mr Alexander said he was expecting strong interest from a range of potential stall holders.

“With a flexible monthly roster, stallholders can select trading days to suit their schedules or have a representative trade on their behalf and that will encourage a range of quality suppliers,” he said.