Gold Coast shopping: New market launched at Broadbeach

An industry hit very hard by COVID has bounced back as determined locals fight for their future. READ HOW THEY DID IT

A WEEKDAY market at Broadbeach is set to ignite the passion of Gold Coasters for fresh and local produce, connect the community and help businesses struggling because of COVID-19.

GC Connected Market will operate every Tuesday from September 22 and are the brainchild of small business advocate Paula Brand. Ms Brand has spent the past six years connecting 20,0000 businesses to generate $20 million by running expos in partnership with 60 sponsors.

“Once COVID hit in March my industry was decimated and I was upset and angry and under a lot of stress, as were hundreds of small businesses across the Gold Coast,” she said.

“But you watch trends and in recent months there’s been a spike in people wanting fresh fruit and vegetables, a healthy lifestyle and an increased desire to shop outdoors.”

Paula Brand (centre) and stallholders Michelle Slessor and Elliott Slessor (from Seafood Direct/Butcher boy meats), Tracey Black (from Wicked Wraps and Gourmet Snacks) and Rieko Power and Matt Power (from Cactus Coffee) gathered together ahead of launch of the new Gold Coast Connected Markets at Broadbeach. Picture: Jerad Williams

Ms Brand quickly got to work to create an event that promises fusion of her iconic Small Business Expos and a traditional farmer’s market.

“I am so excited to offer Gold Coasters the opportunity to visit a farmer’s market during the week so they no longer need to wait until the weekend for their fresh produce,” she said.

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“Not everyone works 9am to 5pm during the week, we have many people who cannot get to the farmer’s markets on the weekend.

“Our markets are all about connections – connecting our primary producers to the home plate, connecting our community through healthy and creative activities, connecting to local small business owners who sell items for the home, children, entertainment and connecting local artists and entertainers who will share their skills and talents to a wider community.”

Rieko Power and Matt Power from Cactus Coffee. Picture: Jerad Williams

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The COVID-safe event has Gold Coast City Council approval to run every Tuesday from 7am to 12pm and at 33 Fremar Street, Broadbeach Waters at the Surfers Paradise Rugby Union Clubhouse and car park.

There’ll be live entertainment from 9am to 12pm, active and healthy activities from 10am to 12pm and picnic mats.

The markets neighbour Albert Park where there are dog walking trails, a lake, children’s playground, basketball courts and barbecues.

Tracey Black from Wicked Wraps and Gourmet Snacks. Picture: Jerad Williams

Ms Brand said with numbers capped at 500, strict social distancing measures would be in place as would hand sanitisation and washing stations.

“This is a fabulous mixed market space to bring people together of all ages – for health, fun, well being, to connect, be happy and to enjoy this wonderful park space.

Elliott Slessor and Michelle Slessor from Seafood Direct/Butcher boy meats. Picture: Jerad Williams

“Come for a cake and coffee, join in an active and healthy activity and pick up your essential fruit and vegetables for the week, support fresh and local!

“Dogs are not allowed onsite, but we do have a dog area with water bowls for furry friends.”

Stallholders are encouraged to contact Ms Brand at [e-mail] or by calling 0475 411 793.