The Village Markets: Burleigh Heads community markets shuts

The founders of a popular southern Gold Coast community market have revealed sad news, leaving long-term patrons devastated. FULL STORY

The Village Markets in Burleigh has closed.

The founders of a beloved southern Gold Coast community market have suddenly announced its end after 16 years.

Sarah Schoeller and Marissa Bowden have revealed The Village Markets will be held at Burleigh Heads for the final time on Wednesday afternoon, blaming tough economic conditions, the light rail extension and weather, among other reasons for its closure.

The pair issued a lengthy statement on social media explaining: “As founders of The Village Market since October 2008, We have been passionate committed to growing the business from what was purely born out of passion for our city and its inhabitants, into a thriving cultural community for the Gold Coast.

The Village Markets co-founders Sarah Schoeller and Marissa Bowden

“The changing climate, with the global pandemic, an economic downturn, the light rail construction and relentless wet weather has not been easy on our small business and these elements combined, have led us to decide to take a new direction for The Village Markets.

“Behind the scenes, while growing TVM and families of our own, we’ve also embarked on new endeavours, including other small businesses.”

The pair revealed they would continue to do smaller events in the future in different locations.

Burleigh’s The Village Markets in 2021. Picture: Marissa Bowden

“We will be continuing to hold our pop-up events at Robina Town Centre and our preloved rack sales at various locations around the Gold Coast,” the statement reads.

“We have grown, both personally and professionally alongside The Village Markets and we looking forward to a new and exciting chapter.”

Ms Schoeller and Ms Bowden started the fashion and lifestyle markets after they were made redundant from their marketing jobs during the global financial crisis.

After initially operating through MySpace with nine stalls, it grew into a major market where brands got their start, including Swim and resort-wear line Peony and Kivari which has eight shops across the country, as well as Pacific Fair.

The Village Markets began in 2008

Earlier this year they told the Bulletin they were preparing to sell the business.

Musician Toni Watson, better known as Tones and I, played a gig at the markets before becoming famous.

“This has been our baby, but it’s 16 years old now. Our own children are growing up so the time seemed right for Sarah and I to let The Village Markets go and to pursue new interests,” said Mrs Bowden.

“But we have a whole community who rely on these markets, and they all love it because of the type of market it is, it’s quality and sustainable, not churn and burn. So we owe it to our community to make sure the owners stay true to that spirit.”

Fans and long-time visitors have reacted with sadness and praise for the pair.

Sally Kyle said the pair had helped change Burleigh.

“Congratulations to you both for the seed of an idea you planted and for the community garden The Village Markets became,” she said.

“You have contributed to all our Sundays and brought much joy.

“Be proud. I look forward to the Rack Sale updates and wish you both joy.”

Elysia Van Vliet said she was proud of the pair.

“Sarah and Marissa you both created something amazing for the Gold Coast that locals and tourists will miss dearly,” she said.

“As your friend, previous employee and brand advocate thank you for everything.

“I’m beyond proud of you both.”