‘Rolling in her grave’: Community reacts at Dapto Markets’ death knell

A popular Illawarra market which has been ever-present in the region since the 1990s could be consigned to history.

Facebook groups have shifted into overdrive following the announcement that one of the Illawarra’s most popular markets may have seen its final days.

Dapto Showground Markets put out a statement on its Facebook page late on Tuesday evening that the Dapto Agricultural & Horticultural (A&H) Society had “barred” the markets from using their facility.

“We believe it is unfair and unjust,” the post said.

“We have operated Dapto Markets for 24 years. At the beginning Dapto was a ghost town with no business open and no activity on a Sunday.

“After 12 months of the markets being there on a Sunday things started to change with business opening and new business started to pop up. Dapto was alive again of a Sunday.”

The Facebook post from Dapto Showground Markets posted on Tuesday evening.

The post also state the markets had contributed $70,000 for the installation of a large bitumen car park and paid $1.5 million in rent over the period.

The markets have received an outpouring of support on social media with supporters venting their dismay at the decision.

“My nanna would be rolling in her grave. Banned!?,” Katrina Reynolds commented.

While Ann Mallon said: “[The Dapto A&H Society] may say they are for the community BUT their actions speak volumes and definitely not with the community in mind.”

The Dapto Showground Markets might have had its final hurrah. Picture: Facebook

Others suggested the markets should relocate with James Hallihan putting forward Kembla Grange Racecourse as a possible venue.

“The energy spent battling with a group that will not co-operate is probably best spent securing a new site so stall holders can get on with business,” Mr Hallihan said.

“The market community will go where you go.”

Dapto Showground Markets has been contacted for comment