Marketta concept expands around Valley

By Tim Howard

After wowing all concerned in 2023, Grafton Marketta makes a return to the Jacaranda City on June 8.

The evening of food, run and entertainment was a huge success at its inaugural outing and organisers say even more businesses have got behind the event this year.

The NSW Government has also come to the party with $150,000 to cover this event and four similar events planned for other Clarence Valley centres during rest of the year.

Event organiser with Clarence Valley Council Deborah Merritt said more Clarence food businesses and dance groups had expressed an interest in this year’s event.

“It’s great to see, because it shows the word is getting out and people understand how they can make this work for them,” Ms Merritt said.

The funding this year will also be distributed around the Valley with a total of fve community events to be held before the end of the year.

Ms Merritt said there would events in South Grafton, Ulmarra, Wooli and Maclean, with the only stipulation that each event was totally community driven.

“Each one is going to be different from the other and represent what each community wants to say about itself,” she said.

“For example something like Marketta, which is designed to give bricks and mortar businesses a street presence, would not work in Wooli,” she said.

“The community there is looking to celebrate its natural beauty with the river, beaches and National Parks.

“And Ulmarra would be looking to do something different again, more quirky with something that captures the spirit of the community.”

Ms Merrett said the entertainment in Grafton on June 8 would top notch.

“A lineup of talented performers including Uncle Ken Gordon, Lennox Monaghan, Garimaa Ngahri, Sam Dyball, Eli Fahey Band and Pistol Whip will put on an unforgettable show,” she said.

“Entry is free, so bring your friends and family for a night flled with entertainment and good eats.”