Fruit and vegetable traders at Melbourne's Queen Victoria Market have initiated a strike, marking the first in the market's extensive history. The traders have expressed dissatisfaction with the City of Melbourne and its market management company, citing financial mismanagement and the imposition of additional electricity and waste charges, which they claim were previously included in-stall fees.
Trader Frank Fontana, whose family has operated at the market for nearly 70 years, voiced concerns about the rising costs threatening the market's future. "We took over from my grandfather, my Nonno. He was there for 50-plus years," Mr. Fontana said. The market has faced challenges, including the impacts of COVID-19 and ongoing construction, leading to a decline in occupancy. "Forty to 50 years ago the market was full. Now it's three-quarters empty," he noted.
Wholesaler Wing Chinn, operating since 1947, called for fair treatment of traders. "They're not treating the market stall holders very well," Mr. Chinn stated. Trader Rocco Tripodi criticized management for its inflexibility, citing instances of issuing infringement notices for early stall closures. "The market management infringing if he leaves 15 minutes early, [Mr. Chinn] is on his feet all day," Mr. Tripodi said, attributing financial mismanagement to the market's difficulties. "I think there is a lot of waste going on up there and that's part of the problem," he added.
The City of Melbourne responded, stating that stallholder license fees have only increased marginally since 2015, with the market absorbing utility and waste costs. Lord Mayor Nick Reece emphasized support for traders, mentioning around $3 million in grants since 2017 to mitigate disruption. "We will continue to help traders apply for funding and rent relief," Cr Reece said.
Solar panels installed in 2022 were intended to reduce electricity costs by $100,000 annually, according to the council's website. However, traders like Mr. Fontana argued that new charges could deter customers, affecting market competitiveness. "If you throw another $200 charge onto them, it sounds like nothing, but if you're not making money or you're just getting by, that can be a tipping point," he explained.
Mary-Lou Howie, president of Friends of Queen Victoria Market Inc., highlighted the market's historical significance and its role in providing affordable fresh food. "Queen Victoria Market has been operating for well over 150 years," Ms. Howie said, emphasizing its cultural and economic importance.
Source: ABC News