Sunshine Coast Council today announced not-for-profit community group Bloomhill Cancer Help has been selected as the new managers of the much-loved Cotton Tree Market.
Division 8 Councillor Jason OPray said after a robust and transparent process he was pleased to announce Bloomhill Cancer Help as the new managers of the Cotton Tree Market.
“The selection panel received three expressions of interest and was impressed with Bloomhill’s outstanding submission which demonstrated their organisation had the skills and experience required to manage a community market,” Cr OPray said.
“The successful applicant was required to meet all the set criteria and demonstrate their ability to operate a market or event of an equivalent scale in the public domain.
“Bloomhill Cancer Help has a proven track record in the management of a range of large scale events and retail outlets across the Sunshine Coast.
“They displayed an excellent local knowledge and understanding of the customer demographic by presenting a professional submission that outlined their vision for the future of the Market.
“They also demonstrated a good understanding of the operational and compliance requirements including the need to apply for a Market Permit.
“After processing Bloomhill’s application for an event permit in line with normal evaluation procedures, council hopes to formally appoint Bloomhill Cancer Help at the end of October. Council will work closely with existing stallholders, Bloomhill Cancer Help and other stakeholders in the community to ensure a smooth transition.
“Under the guidance of Bloomhill Cancer Help, the Cotton Tree Market should continue to contribute to the local economy and add to the unique cultural identity of the area.”
Bloomhill Cancer Help General Manager, Mervat Thompson said Bloomhill is very excited and looking forward to supporting the local Sunshine Coast community and working closely with council to ensure there is a smooth transition.
“Bloomhill has a strong connection with its clients and volunteers and we are hoping to spread our ‘community spirit’ across the Cotton Tree precinct,” she said.
“We aim to provide a market that meets the needs of all involved including retailers, stallholders, customers and the broader community of Cotton Tree.
“Bloomhill is committed to building strong partnerships and creating a fantastic, progressive market with a full-program of fresh new activities.
“We are also on the lookout for new and unique stallholders, so please contact us if you would like to register your interest.
“This is an important new venture for Bloomhill and we are eager to extend our services in this field and support the Sunshine Coast community.”
A new Cotton Tree Market website is currently under construction. For further information or to register your interest in becoming a part of the Cotton Tree Markets, please email cottontreemarkets@bloomhill.com.au or call Mervat Thompson on 0434 803 335.