Mackay artists have a plan in motion to turn Finch Hatton into the next Eumundi

Artists are scouting for the perfect property to start a venture they say could rival the world-famous markets.

Art lovers and connoisseurs of cheese, chocolate and coffee could soon enjoy a new boutique destination by the rainforest.

Two Mackay region artists have joined forces to find the perfect property in Finch Hatton to start a scene they say could one day rival the world-famous Eumundi Markets.

The organisers of Eumundi Market state it is the “biggest and the best art and craft market in Australia”. Picture: File

Art teacher of more than 30 years Shelley Miers said the Pioneer Valley was ideal with ample land, shops and a pub as the starting base.

“You look at Eumundi and how Eumundi started — it started with two artists and a blacksmith,” Mrs Miers said.

“People used to come, as a destination spot, to look at the artists’ work and of course, because he was an original blacksmith — a smithy — he could do anything.

“And then it grew and it grew and it grew, and every single little shop that was there and all of the little houses all turned into businesses.

“If you could get a start (in Finch Hatton), it would snowball.”

Mrs Miers wanted a large place to restore furniture, display art, host classes and workshops and house the Bush Florist at the front.

Mackay Regional Councillor Justin Englert said now was the prime time to buy property with Finch Hatton on the verge of becoming a hot spot with the proposed Mountain Bike Trail.

Mackay Regional Councillor Justin Englert. Picture: Lauren Reed.

Cr Englert said one Mackay business owner had already secured a spot in anticipation.

He said the “cashed up and cultured” mountain bike riders were a lucrative customer base for Finch Hatton retailers.

“They travel all over the world and they want (to buy) a piece of the local place,” Cr Englert said.

“When people know Glen Jacobs built a track here, they’re going to come for his track.”

More stories:

$500,000 lift to accelerate Pioneer Valley bike trail

Plans to turn empty CBD buildings into residential living

Cr Englert said bike riders would stay for up to a week, buy up several meals a day and scout for regional fine produce such as cheese, coffee and chocolate.

“Build it and they will come,” he said.

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