Canberra’s Sunday best, the Old Bus Depot Markets, will this month mark their 30th Birthday, celebrating with the community, stallholders and supporters at the Jewel of Canberra event taking place on Sunday 10th November.
“The Markets began their journey in 1994. 30 years later and we’re still supporting local artists, makers, designers and creators,” said Old Bus Depot Markets’ Manager, Richard Vagi.
“We’ve always been a Canberra Sunday tradition for Canberrans and visitors who come in to see us for locally made, artisan creations including homewares, jewellery, clothing, artworks, and of course all our tasty food.
“We’re proud to still be throwing the doors open each Sunday, welcoming visitors with our friendly atmosphere and as a place where they can meet the genuine makers behind the products they love,” Richard continued.
Old Bus Depot Markets opened in 1994, after two local Canberra women – Diane Hinds and Morna Whiting – first had the idea in 1992 and took on the large industrial space in the old bus depot in Kingston, transforming it into a hub for local makers to sell their wares. With many accolades coming their way including being inducted into the Australian Tourism Hall of Fame, a big change came in 2016 when Diane and Morna passed the baton to the Markets’ new owners, Iconic Market and Events.
Pausing in 2020 due to damage caused by the Canberra hailstorms, subsequent building works and then the Covid pandemic, today the Markets remain a hive of creativity and expression each and every week, with special monthly theme days continuing to be a crowd favourite.
The Markets’ 30th Birthday is being celebrated as part of one of those special theme days – Jewel of Canberra – a day that will showcase the region’s best artisans with handcrafted items including jewellery, art, skincare, ceramics, fashion and accessories, plants and exquisite food.
Locals and visitors are invited to celebrate on the day with a giant 30th birthday card to sign, and Instagram photo frame to capture the fun and balloons. Richard and the Markets’ team are looking forward to the celebrations with the many stallholders who call the Market home each Sunday, including Carol Webster of Carol’s Creations who was at the very first Market back in 1994, Karen of Moondrop Pearls and Song of Song Laos Cuisine – both having been with the Markets for over 20 years.
“We are so proud to remain as a vital home for local businesses and look forward to celebrating our 30 years with the Canberra community,” Richard concluded.
The Old Bus Depot Markets will celebrate their 30th Birthday at the Jewel of Canberra Market on Sunday 10th November from 9.30am – 2.30pm. For more information visit www.obdm.com.au and follow Old Bus Depot Markets on Facebook and Instagram.
Old Bus Depot Market Managers and original/long-term stallholders are available for interview on request.