Charlton Lions Easter Market Holds Strong
The Charlton Lions Club’s Annual Easter Market went ahead this year in what many described as a challenging climate for both volunteers and visitors.
With rising costs and uncertainty around fuel availability, it’s currently difficult for small community groups to maintain long-standing traditions, but Charlton Lions proved they’re up to the task.
Neville Sinapius, a member of the Charlton Lions Club for more than 20 years, estimated attendance was down by around 50 per cent. But thanks to steady traffic passing through town over the Easter break, raffle sales remained strong, even in tough times, the generosity of people is astonishing.
Importantly, the club remains on track for its annual distribution of funds back into the community, scheduled for June.
The day was as much about family as it was about fundraising. Colin Fletcher and his son Hudson make the trip up from Rye each Easter to lend a hand on the barbecue, helping out father-in-law and grandfather, Lion Garry Larmour. What started as a visit has become a bit of a family tradition.
Visitors were well catered for, with a steady supply of egg and bacon sandwiches, sausages, burgers and coleslaw, coffee, ice-cream and cold beverages keeping everyone well fed.
Despite the uncertainty, several dedicated stallholders made the trip. Christine Currie of I & C Coffee travelled from Moyston, fresh from a busy weekend at the Stawell markets and races. Back in her childhood stomping ground and in good spirits, she spoke proudly of the new Birchip silo, which features her father Ray Neville, a special link to her childhood made even more meaningful as she has his winning trophy depicted in the artwork in her possession.
Travelling from closer afield, Amy Turnbull of Amy’s Buds & Blooms Plant Nursery in Wycheproof brought along a wide selection of plants, along with handmade totes and journals. Based in Dempsey Street (behind Elders), Amy balances running her nursery – open Friday to Monday – with gardening work around Wycheproof and occasional markets.
Stacey and Wayne Morris from Donald were on hand with their “Love Your Travels” stall, adding to the mix of local offerings.
Closer to home, Charlton local Charlie Woodman set up with a range of garden ornaments. He runs a clothing and shoe shop in Inglewood and is set to be part of an upcoming pop-up shop in Charlton, planned to open closer to Mother’s Day.
Other Charlton locals also took the opportunity to connect with visitors, setting up stalls with bric-a-brac and clear-out items.
Market goers all enjoyed the sunshine and relaxed atmosphere. With kids, dogs, and friends gathering together, the market retained its strong sense of community.
While vendor numbers were down, the day was still considered a success.
Garry Larmour said the Lions Club was extremely pleased with the funds raised.
Taking in raffle sales during their four days down the street amounted to $1305, plus $823 sales at the market, reached a total of $2128.30. Catering at the market raised an additional $1230.
As a gesture of goodwill, the Lions Club was able to to reduce the site fees by $5. For many stallholders, the concern wasn’t just the cost of fuel, but whether it would even be available for the trip home. Even so, those who attended helped ensure the Charlton Lions Easter Market remains a valued and resilient local tradition.
