Newcastle market closure ends 35‑year tradition

The Newcastle & Hunter Region Vietnam Veterans Market—also known as Islington Market or Wickham Park Market—has been held at Wickham Park in Islington on the last Sunday of each month for at least 35 years. It was organised by the Newcastle & Hunter Region Vietnam Veterans to raise money for veteran welfare.

Committee member Allan Crumpton announced that the group will not renew its licence with the City of Newcastle, citing a shortage of volunteers, with over 80 no longer available. In recent months the market hosted between 100 and 120 stallholders. The decision has led to the cancellation of the upcoming Sunday market.

Talks are under way with other organisations that may run a market at Wickham Park. Stallholder Nathan Bell said the closure will limit the growth of his small business, which relied on the affordable venue.