Permanent Sunday market to open by the river in Morningside

UPDATE: Due to a complaint the Rivermakers Markets has shifted to a monthly schedule and will operate every third Sunday of the month until further notice. The next market is on Sunday, August 18.

Erected in 1917, the sprawling brick buildings in what is now known as the Rivermakers precinct in Morningside were originally a factory that made acetate of lime for World War I armaments.

During the Second World War the site became a naval barracks and later, a migrant hostel and home of the Queensland Fish Board. In the 1970s it was taken over by the Hans Smallgoods factory.

Rivermakers in Morningside is a historical site now given over to hospitality, events and markets.Credit: BMI

Now known as Rivermakers and part of the Irvine family’s BMI group, the picturesque development houses a brewery, a gin bar, a boutique butcher, a pottery studio and function spaces.

Goodwill Projects director Mark Power has had his eye on it for six years.

“On paper, it always looked like an incredible opportunity, and the family have a great vision for it,” he said.

“It’s 50 metres from the waterline of the Brissie River, so it’s got stunning views, and a rolling, massive grass field.

“This is a really special place for people on the southern side of the river to get some sun, meet their friends, take their partner or their dog, get great eats and enjoy.”

Teck’s Freshly Picked vegetables is one of the stallholders at Rivermakers Farmers and Artisan Markets.Credit: Goodwill Projects

Power’s Goodwill Projects is behind the popular weekend markets in West End, Milton, Redcliffe, Nundah, Carseldine and others. It has now partnered with BMI to set up the Rivermakers Farmers and Artisan Markets.

Power said that as well as the location, the market was inspired by two things.

“With the focus on the pricing of the major retailers, people are looking for quality but genuine savings,” he said.

“And then it’s about offering a platform for small businesses, people who are really skilled and passionate, or looking for a side hustle.”

Power said his team had visited several producers in south-east Queensland over the past three months seeking traders willing to sell directly to the public.

They included Moombra Meats near Wivenhoe Dam, Bellmere Honey from Delaneys Creek, Lunar Farm Organics from Birkdale and Good Growin’ Mushrooms from north Brisbane.

Moombra Meats specialises in pasture-raised beef.Credit: Moombra Meats

The market will also showcase jewellery, craft, gifts and plants.

“What makes a market truly special anywhere in the world is the uniqueness of your traders, and we have a rule in-house that if you can’t find it in a Westfield, then we’re doing something special,” Power said.

Another drawcard at Rivermakers will be a children’s precinct with rides and activities surrounding a decommissioned CityCat ferry. “It looks amazing, up high on a hill looking, down on the river,” Power said.

A wide variety of street food will be on offer and live music across two stages will be courtesy of local musicians. More than 450 parking spaces are available on site.

Rivermakers Farmers and Artisan Markets launches Sunday, July 21 at 82 Colmslie Road, Morningside, 7am-1pm. Entry is free.