Looking for a creative community group to manage Cotton Tree Market

Sunshine Coast Council is seeking expressions of interest from not-for-profit community groups looking to contribute to the vitality of the community by managing the Cotton Tree markets.

Division 8 Councillor Jason OPray said the Cotton Tree markets have contributed to the life and vibrancy of the local shopping precinct for the past 15 years.

"The markets are a popular event on the Sunshine Coast events calendar and expressions of interest are now being sought from experienced not-for-profit community groups to manage and build on the success of the markets," he said.

"Community groups will be required to meet set criteria and demonstrate the ability to operate a market or event of an equivalent scale in the public domain.

"They will also need to display local knowledge and an understanding of the customer demographic.

"It is important that successful managers maintain the market’s vision to become a distinctive art and craft market featuring local artisans, designers or inventors selling their own unique and creative works.

"However we are also looking for community groups who have the ability to encourage innovation and creativity for the markets to continue to prosper.

Cr OPray said the successful applicant should also have an understanding of the compliance requirements for markets and will need to apply for a Market Permit with Council.

"Council will work closely with the successful managers, who are expected to be appointed at the end of October, to achieve a smooth transition of the running of the markets," Cr OPray said.

"Under the guidance of experienced managers, there is no doubt the Cotton Tree markets will continue to contribute to the local economy and add to the unique cultural identity of the area."

Interested not-for-profit community groups are invited to complete an expression of interest submission form by 5pm Monday 3 September 2012. Submissions will be assessed by a panel of experts and those organisations meeting the criteria will be invited to attend an interview to outline their level of experience and suitability. For further information phone one of council’s Customer Contact Centres on 5475 7272.

The Cotton Tree Markets currently operates up to 80 stalls in King Street, Cotton Tree each Sunday from 7am to 12 noon and offers a relaxed outdoor village setting for residents and visitors to enjoy.