Expression of Interest: Curate and operate a pop-up or farmers market at Kings Way Reserve

City of Port Phillip
We are currently seeking Expression of Interest (EOI) from individuals, businesses, or organisations to curate and deliver a market at Kings Way Reserve, Melbourne.

This initiative aims to activate the reserve and provide a vibrant, community-focused market experience for residents and visitors in the St Kilda Road precinct.

EOI’s are currently being accepted to curate and deliver the following:

  • Weekend morning farmers market
  • and/or a Thursday night market food truck pop
  • and/or Christmas market at Kings Way Reserve, located at the corner of Kings Way and Bowen Crescent, Melbourne.

Farmers Market Details

  • Suggested frequency: Third Saturday of each month (Sundays and other weekends would be considered)
  • Time: Morning hours (e.g. 8 am – 1 pm)
  • Trial Period: 6 months
  • Permit Fee: Waived during trial period
  • Site Capacity: approx. 25-30 stall sites (3m x 3m marquees)
  • Public toilets onsite
  • Potential to block off part of Queens Road for up to 6 food trucks
  • Site allows access for stallholder vehicles

Thursday Night Market Details

  • Frequency: Weekly or Fortnightly (proposed by applicant)
  • Time: Twilight hours (e.g.5:00 PM, – 9:00 PM)
  • Trial Period: 6 months
  • Permit Fee: Waived during trial period
  • Food trucks
  • Pop up bar (subject to licensing)
  • Live Music or entertainment
  • Lighting and ambience enhancements encouraged
  • Public toilets onsite
  • Site allows access for stall holder vehicles as well
  • Potential to block off part of Queens Road for up to 6 food trucks

Location Benefits

  • High foot traffic. Site is adjacent to Albert Park Lake, which attracts thousands of recreational users every Saturday.
  • Significant public transport access including trams along St Kilda Rd, and close proximity to ANZAC station
  • Surrounding community including St Kilda Towers, numerous serviced apartments, several schools, residential dwellings and approximately 12 hotels within a comfortable walking distance.
  • Many nearby points of interest including Fawkner Park, Albert Park Lake precinct, Royal Botanical Gardens, Shrine of Remembrance
  • On-street parking on St Kilda Rd and Bowen Cresent. Paid parking available at St Kilda Towers

Opportunity

  • This is a unique opportunity to establish a community farmers or night market in a precinct currently underserved by such offerings. The market will provide fresh produce, artisan goods, and food options to residents, workers, and visitors.
  • Council will work with the preferred supplier on any further requirements for the site that may be required.

Selection Criteria – Submissions will be assessed based on:

  • Demonstrated experience and capability
  • Alignment with community and sustainability values
  • Quality and diversity of proposed market offering
  • Capacity to deliver within the trial period
  • Creativity and potential to activate the space

Interested parties should submit an application via the EOI Form

Expressions of Interest will be accepted until close of business 15 November 2025

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