Have you heard of the Hinterland Market Trail?

The Hinterland Market Trail is more than just markets, the aim is to promote the whole experience of visiting a Hinterland Market Trail location; the community, the people, the makers and growers, the rich history of the townships, the local businesses, the amazing natural landmarks, and the world famous scenery.

When you visit a market on the Trail and talk to a stall holder, you can feel their passion for their product. When you buy these products, you are directly supporting the person you bought it from.

The Hinterland Market Trail is for the community, run by the community. The markets bring communities together socially, and have been for many years, introducing non-community members to the people and places of each location, to support their products and to hear their stories.

The Hinterland Market Trail was established in January 2021 when organisers from six Glasshouse Country and Hinterland markets met to share ideas to enhance and promote the wonderful markets on offer in the local area.

The purpose of the group was not just to promote the markets under the umbrella of the Hinterland Market Trail, but it was also an opportunity to share ideas, resources, and the challenges of running a community market.

Nearly two years later, market coordinators from Beerburrum, Beerwah, Maleny, Montville, Mooloolah and Mapleton continue to connect over common values and shared experiences, and explore ways to support each other in their volunteer roles.

At the beginning of 2022 the group obtained funding from the Sunshine Coast Council’s Economic Development Grants Program for a specific marketing push for the Trail. This let members of the Trail work with local marketing duo Lachie and Fynn from Marco Marketing to develop a new social media strategy.

Lachie visited each market and took photos and videos for use in promoting the Trail. Working with Marco enabled the markets to increase their connection with the community and strengthen the brand awareness of HMT.

Director of Marco, Lachie Finch said: “I have thoroughly enjoyed working with the team at the Hinterland Market Trail to highlight the amazing people, businesses and communities of the Sunshine Coast Hinterland markets.

“I would recommend the Hinterland Market Trail to both visitors and locals. I encourage people to make a day out of their visit, as the markets are surrounded by other incredible natural landmarks and locations worth seeing.”

The group continues to meet every second month and is committed to work together, tackle any arising challenges, and stand united in offering the best possible market for their own local community.

For other markets within the Hinterland interested in joining the trail please head to the Facebook page for further details, or make contact by emailing qcwabeerwah@gmail.com.