Rotary clubs successful in markets bid

Date: Friday, 28th August 2009

Cotters and The Strand Night Markets will soon be generating thousands of dollars for community projects under the guiding hand of local Rotarians.

Townsville City Council today voted to hand the market operations over to the region`s Rotary Clubs.

Council called for expressions of interest in May, for not-for-profit groups to run the markets, returning the funds generated back to the community.

Corporate Governance Committee chair Cr Natalie Marr said an outstanding proposal was received, which had the support of all local Rotary clubs.

Cr Marr said the agreement would save ratepayers around $80,000 in administration costs and proceeds from the markets would be directed into Rotary projects in the local community.

“Rotary showed excellent business planning with their submission, and we are confident that they will deliver the markets to a standard that the community is accustomed to," Cr Marr said.

"Our intent was to give the markets to the community, so that any funds raised could be used for local projects.

“It is definitely a win-win situation. The community can continue to enjoy the markets at less cost to the ratepayer, and know that any proceeds will be going towards worthwhile projects around the region.

"We will be working closely with the Rotary clubs for the entire length of the contract to ensure there will be little impact on stall holders and patrons.

"Under the partnership agreement, the council and the successful provider will form a management committee with representatives of the stall holders to ensure the integrity, safety and growth of the markets.”

The president of the Thuringowa Central Rotary Club Caroline Hook said that the region’s Rotary clubs were very excited to be working with the Council on operating the Cotters and Strand Night Markets.

“Markets are such an important part of our community life,” Ms Hook said.

“They are always bustling and full of something different - not only market stalls, but community groups, local entertainers, food vendors and buskers.

“The Cotters markets and the Strand Night Markets are local institutions. Rotary loves being involved in community events like these markets, and we hope that over time they will become bigger and better, and add more to what makes it great to be living in Townsville.”

Council today agreed to enter into a fixed-term partnership agreement with Rotary to run the markets for five years with a five year option.