Anewly formed group of local businesses will host its first market in the Limestone Coast later this year.

The Limestone Coast Market Network (LCMN) will hold its inaugural market at Casadio Park on Sunday, October 1 from 10am-4pm.

The market has been made possible through a Bendigo Community Bank Mount Gambier and Districts community grant, as well as sponsorship from Willow Financial Services which will assist in the event insurance.

The Limestone Coast Market Network was established to help boost the market community within the area, help market stall holders find markets and to encourage business growth and networking.

The market working committee comprises president Sue MacDonald, finance officer Rosemarie Williams, communications officer Jedda Glynn and committee members Bron Telford, Karina Leerson and Alarni Holmes.

Ms Glynn said prior to the formation, members felt there was a need for a networking type group for stall holders and small business to seek help and advice along with encouragement.

“The plan is to have a total of four markets throughout the market season (October – April) all around the Limestone Coast,” she said.

“When we chose the date of October 1st it fell on the Sunday of the long weekend, which is a busy weekend here in Mount Gambier.

“With lots of tourists flocking the district, we felt between the two caravan parks of Blue Lake Caravan Park and Pine Country Caravan Park, as well as a busy road heading down to the coast, Casadio Park was the perfect location.

“Rocco Bueti and the Italo Australian Club were very accommodating and supportive with assisting us to get this market off the ground.

“They will also be serving delicious wood fire pizza along with tea and coffee at the market.

“Currently all inside stalls have been sold, with the outside stalls filling up very quickly.

“Our next market will be held in Port MacDonnell during the peak tourism time between Christmas and New Year with more information to come.”