Dandenong Market gets set for 150th Jubilee celebrations
FOR a century and a half, Dandenong Market has been the thriving heart of the community in Melbourne’s southeast.
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FOR a century and a half, Dandenong Market has been the thriving heart of the community.
From humble beginnings as a livestock saleyard in 1866, the market grew quickly in popularity and by 1870 had hundreds of vendors selling fruit, dairy products, skins, lard, honey, hay and other farm products.
Today the market has gained a reputation as one of the multicultural centres of Melbourne, with traders from 150 different nationalities coming together under one roof to sell their wares.
This year Dandenong Market — Melbourne’s second oldest and largest behind the Queen Vic — celebrates its 150th anniversary.
To mark the milestone, a 128-page book is being released to document the significant moments in the market’s history.
Some of it is unexpected, such as the important role the market served during World War II when its produce sections and grandstand were converted into sleeping quarters for more than a thousand male recruits.
Author Michael Shmith said it was a privilege to bring the market’s fascinating story to life.
“Until I started writing this book, I wasn’t aware of just how significant, rich, and durable Dandenong Market’s history was,” Shmith said.
“The Market maintained a strong presence throughout major social, economic and political events, not to mention two world wars.
“It was because of this determination and unwavering community support that the market still thrives today.
“I hope this book captures the charm, the stories, the characters, the hardships and perhaps even the smells.
“Every trader has a story to tell — and I like to think I’ve brought alive at least some of these vivid, fascinating tales.”
Greater Dandenong mayor Heang Tak said the 150-year milestone was a great moment in Dandenong’s history.
“We’re incredibly proud of Dandenong Market’s strong and vibrant history,” Cr Tak said.
“It is undoubtedly one of our city’s most prized assets and its 150-year history is testament to that.”
The Dandenong Market: Celebrating 150 Years is available at Dandenong Market Management office for $30 from October 1.
The market’s 150th Jubilee celebrations are on October 16 from 10am. The free event will include live performances, street foods and plenty of family fun. Find out more at dandenongmarket.com.au.
‘IT’S PRACTICALLY BEEN MY HOME ALL MY LIFE’
YOU could say Dennis Schwarze grew up in Dandenong Market.
He can remember visiting the market when he was still in a pram 60-odd years ago.
A family business for more than 85 years, Schwarze Seafood is the market’s longest-running stall.
Mr Schwarze’s grandmother Alice Schwarze opened it in 1930. Back then, she made the long trek from Prahran with her brother and sister for Tuesday market day.
A severe diabetic, Mrs Schwarze became ill and handed the reins on to Dennis’ father Mervyn Schwarze.
By 1976 Dennis Schwarze was old enough to run the establishment himself and took over.
“It’s such a multicultural area and a lot of people prefer shopping at the market,” he said.
“It’s a tradition for many people who have came from overseas and those who have grown up coming here as a kid.
“I love the Dandenong Market. It’s practically been my home all my life and I’m fortunate to be part of it.”
TIMELINE
1866:Market officially opens with cattle, pigs and sheep for sale
1870:Market grows to 300 vendors selling fruit, diary products, skins, lard, honey, hay and farm products alongside livestock auctioneers
1926: Market relocates to current site on the corner of Clow and Cleeland streets
1927:A produce hall on the corner of Clow St opens, with stock yards extending to Cleeland St
1939—1945: Market is converted into sleeping quarters for more than 1000 male recruits during World War II
1958: Original stockmarket is moved to new centre behind rail yards in Cheltenham Rd
1975: Old produce hall demolished and new produce and fruits halls built further along Cleeland St
1976: Market begins opening on Fridays as well as Tuesdays
1982:Trading on Saturday beings as Dandenong promotes itself as ‘The Market Town’
1996:‘The Dandy Pig’ neon sign — part of the much-loved Gippsland Co-operative Bacon Curing Company sing in 1950 —is given a new lease of life, recovered from storage and erected at the market
2013:Sunday trading commences
2016: Fresh local produce, meat, vegetables, cheeses and spices sold by more than 240 traders from 150 different nationalities