Sunday Markets in for a boost

The Sunday Rotary Markets in Kings Cross are set to grow while refocusing on the vintage collectible scene if new market manager Leroy Moody has his way.

He also wants to make the markets more of a leisure destination with cookery demo’s, newspaper sellers, acoustic music, food and coffee.

Mr Moody fell into the manager position “almost by accident”.

“I was visiting the incoming president of Kings Cross Rotary, Nigel Lovell, in his factory in Marrickville on another matter,” he said. The factory makes ATM machines.

“He was holding a draft flyer for the markets and I said, “Nigel, you’re supposed to be working’.”

“We’re looking for a new manager for the markets,” Mr Lovell explained.

“Look no further,” said Mr Moody, who then found that Rotary does everything by the book and there was a full advertising and interview process to negotiate.

But in the end he got the job. His qualifications include having held a stall at the markets for a year selling collectibles and bric-a-brac. He still sells from Rozelle markets and knows the market scene across Sydney.

He has lived in Potts Point with his wife and family for 15 years and has a background in hospitality, working as a waiter in Machiavellis in Clarence Street, famed setting of many a Labor Party power deal.

Although he doesn’t officially start his new role for nearly a month, he has already visited suitable stallholders in markets across Sydney, and he plans to letterbox the local area promoting the changes.

“Nine out of ten stallholders said they were interested,” he said.

He sees the quality of wares at the market rising along with some of the prices as the market attracts enthusiasts.

“It’s not going to be a trash and treasure market – but people will still be able to pick up a bargain,” he said.

Kings Cross Rotary uses income from the markets to make significant contributions to local charities.

by Michael Gormly