Kempsey markets provide opportunities for fun and inclusion
Published on 21 September 2023
Kempsey Riverside Market has been buzzing since Key Community Group took over the management of the markets in July 2022, with the monthly event growing to include over 100 stalls, attracting stallholders, entertainers and visitors from Port Macquarie to Bellingen.
The markets now include all kinds of activities, including bungee trampolines and giant bubble blowing, alongside a large range of food trucks and stalls.
Key’s Market Co-ordinator Brooke Tammjarv, said the organisation’s aim was to grow the markets and to promote inclusivity and a sense of community in the Macleay.
“We have intentionally created an environment that feels welcoming and inclusive to all members of the community,” Mrs Tammjarv said.
“People who come to the markets can enjoy high-quality live entertainment, free activities for kids, and spots with picnic blankets and hay bales to sit on where they can relax and just be social.”
The first silent disco was also held at the September market, hosted by Blue Sky Community Services, and is the latest in a series of initiatives from the Macleay Disability Inclusion Group, in partnership with Kempsey Shire Council, to promote inclusivity for people with disabilities in the Kempsey Shire.
Blue Sky’s Inclusive Community Coordinator Ross Henderson described the disco as a welcoming and inclusive space that invites neurodiverse people and those with sensory needs to enjoy a social event they might otherwise avoid.
“At the silent disco, everyone gets their own headset and is in control of their music and volume", he said, “the idea is to help people to reduce anxiety and participate in a fun social gathering with others.”
The markets also provide volunteers with disabilities with the opportunity to host the Key Community Group barbecue and enjoy a fun, relaxing day out.
“Working at the barbecue gives participants a real sense of accountability and pride in themselves,” Mrs Tammjarv said, “for some, it’s their only chance to get out and interact with the community.”
The staff at Key are passionate about growing the markets to support local small businesses as well as bringing diverse members of the community together regularly.
“The growth of Kempsey Riverside Market benefits everyone by attracting people to Kempsey,” Mrs Tammjarv said.
"We’ve seen a lot of growth over the last few months – from 40 stalls to over 100 – but I don’t think we’ve reached our limits!”
“We are always looking for support to continue including more inclusive and free activities, so donations and sponsorship are welcome.”
Kempsey Shire Council are proud to be working in close partnership with members of the Macleay Disability Inclusion Group on a number of events and initiatives that promote inclusion and accessibility and improve the lives of people with disability in our community.
For donation and sponsorship, inquiries contact kempseyriversidemarkets@gmail.com.
Kempsey Riverside Markets (image from Facebook page)