Council denies telling farmers' market to close
Central Coast Council denied last week it had told the organisers of the Ettalong Farmers Market, to close.
The market opened as usual on Saturday.
Earlier market organisers said in a social media post: "We've received a call from the council advising the market is to be closed effective immediately due to anonymous complaints they have received about our residence at the Scout Hall."
An online petition, organised by a customer, calling on the council to allow the market to be kept open attracted 708 supporters.
Central Coast Council issued a statement to Peninsula News on Tuesday, October 24, saying it "has not advised the organisers of the Ettalong Farmers Market, which operates out of the Scout Hall, that they need to cease operating".
"As the market comprises all food truck type vendors, the operation of the market is exempt from a planning permit, so long as the property owner consents to the market being held in the location."
In a social media post on Thursday, October 19, market organisers said they had been told "they have allowed us to continue to provide our fruit and veg market inside the Scout Hall this week prior to our solutions meeting next week.
"Unfortunately, it means we are unable to have any stalls outside of the Scout Hall this week until further notice.
"Our whole purpose of inviting other stall holders to join us was to give them the opportunity to broaden their customer base and enhance our customers market experience with vibes and variety."
The petition, started by Ms Eileen Scobie on Saturday, October 21, said: "We call on central coast council to continue to allow the Ettalong fresh fruit and vege market to be held at Broken Bay Scout Hall, supplying us locals with a vibrant community-based source of fresh produce.
"I have seen this market grow from a small single table to this outstanding fun place over many years in many places.
"The social aspect cannot be overstated as our community gathers each Saturday morning to chat and buy amazing products.
"To lose Jamie, Andrew and family would be a tragedy for our area."
Organiser Mr Andrew Slade said: "The following Monday we received another call from Council advising us that they had not shut our market and that we were definitely free to operate.
"We run a vibrant farmers' market that is well loved and needed by the community."
SOURCE:
Media statement, 24 Oct 2023
Central Coast Council
Social media, 19 Oct 2023
Ettalong Farmers Market