Fremantle markets evict long term tenants

Letter to Fremantle Council from Mary Cole.

MARY COLE VACATED THE MARKETS AT THE START OF MARCH

Today I walked away from my business at the Fremantle Market after a 30 year association with the Markets, including 10 years as a resident of Fremantle. Despite a successful business I could not afford a 72% rise in my rent for no tangible benefit.

I enjoyed my business, it was my income and my superannuation. Yet despite these uncertain times I chose to leave rather than to work just to pay the rent. Whilst I could put up with Victorian conditions, boiling in the summer, freezing in the winter and the appalling stall holder amenities I could no longer tolerate the duplicitous dealings of the Management. All month my shop has been full of loyal customers from all points of the globe, many visibly upset that after 35 years there is no longer an Antique Corner at the Fremantle Markets. However, during that time, the Murdoch’s have not taken five minutes to talk to me about my decision or even to wish me well. This silence speaks volumes about their ability to work with people.

I acknowledge that Fremantle Markets may need to make some changes to keep up with the times but this will not be done by alienating current stallholders. It will not be achieved by beginning rumours and setting stall holder against stall holder. It will not be achieved by picking off 20 stall holders at a time for lease reviews. It will not be achieved by pushing current stall holders to leave. It will certainly not be achieved by sending stallholders a few emails and calling it consultation.

The Fremantle City Council needs to carefully consider how it’s most precious and recognizable asset is managed. It needs to listen carefully to the Stall Holders Association and previous long term stall holders. Fremantle Markets can not be allowed to die, nor can it be allowed to turn into a glamorous shopping centre. Future growth depends on harnessing the goodwill and energies of stallholders and this has almost disappeared completely.


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