Rochester is revved up and ready to go this weekend, with its special market being held on March 16.
This month’s market, held on Saturday instead of the usual Sunday, is a joint venture between the Rochester Business Network and Rich River Rod and Custom.
Milly Cain, who organises the markets, said there will be something for everyone.
“The draw card this weekend is obviously having the 300 vehicles from the Rich River car club visiting as well. So it’s a real opportunity for Rochester to shine to visitors,” she said.
“We think that having the car club visiting that day will draw a whole new crowd to Rochester. As well as having the cars we’ll be able to showcase the local talented artists and food producers.
“It’s really impressive that we can have more than 35 store holders with the specific criteria that things must be handmade or must be homegrown. That really shows the local talent around Rochy and the surrounding areas.”
Ms Cain said these types of events have been a great way to inject tourism money into the local area.
“These types of markets drive tourism and new visitors to the town, and that’s really important to our economic growth,” she said.
“The money made from the market goes back into the community, and it’s just really lovely to see that community spirit and people stopping and chatting and catching up.”
Working with the Rich River Rod and Custom has delighted Ms Cain.
“They have been fantastic, and it’s not just local cars that will be there this weekend. Cars are coming from all over Victoria, and they’re really keen to support Rochy in its growth and return to being a really strong, vibrant community,” she said.
The market will be held at the Rochester skate park, on the corner of Gillies and Campaspe Sts, between 9am and 1pm.