By Dylan J Stone
Wilcannia was abuzz last weekend with the second showing of the local markets in as many months, and more is to come with additional stalls from local and regional artists and businesses on their way.
Greg Hill, General Manager, Central Darling Shire Council, confirmed around 100 people were there on the weekend, which he said was an outstanding result, and demonstrated there was significant support for regular markets in Wilcannia.
Mr Hill confirmed more markets will be held in 2023, driven by the success of the two trial markets, and when asked whether he was optimistic that the markets would continue to be successful this year Mr Hill said he was very confident.
There’s also significant backing from small business groups and NSW government-funded programs to help ensure the markets are both successful and have a solid future.
Secretary of the NSW Far West Small Business Association, Jack Dickson, said he was, “very pleased to have seen the second round of Wilcannia Markets were successful”.
He said the Small Business Association definitely wanted to work with market organisers to help keep up the impetus.
“We’re now working with the Business Connect program, which will bring about so many new opportunities for stallholders in Wilcannia in 2023 and beyond, and which will ensure the markets remain viable for the Wilcannia community.”
Erica Haskard, from the Business Connect program, explained the program is a NSW government funded program offering free business advisory services.”
“BizHQ helps deliver that program in the Far West, and we support businesses to start, grow, thrive and survive,” she said.
For the stallholders in Wilcannia, Ms Haskard said, “this is a great support program that can help them take their business to the next level, or if they’re happy with where it’s at, we can help support them with any hurdles they may be facing”.
“I can also travel to Wilcannia or meet with them in Broken Hill so that the Business Connect program can deliver the support need face to face.”
Both Ms Haskard and members of the NSW Far West Small Business Association will visit Wilcannia in the next few months to meet with the local stallholders and potential stallholders.
