After 21 years markets’ owners pass the baton for the next chapter

After 21 years (it would have been 22 years in September!), the markets are hitting the next chapter in their long Canberra history as the current owners, Diane Hinds and Morna Whiting, have sold the business to new owners, effective immediately.

“After 21 years managing Canberra’s favourite Sunday markets, it’s time for Morna and myself to move over and let someone else take the reins to help steer the markets well into the future,” said Old Bus Depot Markets’ former Director, Diane Hinds.

The markets will now be managed by Iconic Markets and Events Pty Ltd, headed up by Managing Director, Anthony Niravong. Diane and Morna played a large part in personally selecting the new owner and feel he is the right fit for the markets.

“Iconic will maintain everything that the markets are, and will continue their focus on Australian made, hand crafted and premium products. We want to ensure that the markets continue to be recognised locally, regionally and internationally as Canberra’s much-loved, tourism-award winning markets,” said Anthony.

Anthony is a Canberra local. Coming from a Lao and Thai speaking family with Chinese heritage, he has studied and lived in Canberra since 2004, and has a strong 20+ year history in hospitality and retail.

What now for Diane and Morna? Well, they’re off for a long, hard-earned break and to kick their heels up and reflect on what they’ve built over the years.

“It’s a fond farewell from us. We are truly blessed to have built up Canberra’s favourite Sunday markets, to show off the talents of many local and regional craftspeople and foodies each week for 21 years, and for the many beautiful friendships we’ve made along the way,” said Old Bus Depot Markets’ former Director, Morna Whiting.