Rapid Creek Markets ease back into full flow with new safety measures in place

A TRIAL run of new COVID-19-friendly restrictions proved a success for the organisers of the Rapid Creek Markets.

The Rapid Creek fresh food markets have reopened after the easing of coronavirus pandemic restrictions in the Territory. Picture: Che Chorley

A TRIAL run of new COVID-19-friendly restrictions proved a success for the organisers of the Rapid Creek Markets.

Rapid Creek Markets co-ordinator Costa Miaoudis said the model had worked well when it was first trialled the previous Sunday.

Mr Miaoudis said the one-in, one-out fashion meant they were able to keep tabs on how many people were in the space and adhere to COVID-19 restrictions.

A vendor makes a sale at the Rapid Creek markets yesterday. Picture: Che Chorley

“We put up safety mesh around the front because people were trying to sneak in,” he said.

He said yesterday was a steady day for trade despite many heading out bush to enjoy the great outdoors.

Most stallholders were also at the markets, with the final few expected to operate next week.

Stallholders back at work at the Rapid Creek markets yesterday. Picture: Che Chorley

Mr Miaoudis said he would look to keep the same measures in place.

“I’m going to keep it as long as possible even if the laws change,” he said.

“I think people will get used to it, it’s the new style, things are better now in Darwin, it’s safe, but you still have to be careful.”

Strict social distancing requirements have been implemented at the reopened Rapid Creek markets. Picture: Che Chorley

Full access to our journalism – just $1 for the first 28 days

A line of hungry customers lined up to get into the fresh food markets yesterday morning.

The markets now operate in a one-way fashion, with people entering at Trower Rd and exiting through the back.

Shoppers now have to line up at Trower Rd to get into the Rapid Creek markets. Picture: Che Chorley