ATTENDANCE numbers at the annual Myrtleford Bush Market last Friday were reportedly higher than last year’s crowds, with the number of sites used by stallholders also booked to capacity.

Large crowds of both locals and visitors to the region enjoyed the best of what a Myrtleford market had to offer at the Myrtleford Recreation Reserve, with stalls selling vintage Tupperware, clothes, toys, regional delicacies and produce, health and beauty products, artwork and much more.

The Balloon Man had the youngest market attendees lining up for a new fairground friend, while the grown-ups enjoyed the mix of songs provided by local artist Tahlia Brain.

“It was another perfect day for us,” said event organiser, Melanie Dymond.

“I didn't record visitor numbers, but it seemed like an increase from last year, according to the With One Voice choir volunteers who ran the carpark.

“There were 126 sites booked for this year’s bush market, so we were pretty much at capacity, with heaps of local stalls.

“Everyone was enjoying the atmosphere of the market, and I noticed a good mix of local people and out-of-towners.

"It really is the perfect location...people were sitting down and relaxing under the shade of the trees, enjoying the entertainment.

“Everyone finds something new that they can take home...hats, socks, chutneys, Swedish bread and so on.

"I can’t tell you the number of people I saw carrying off something from the wrought-ironwork stall!

“We'll take a break then start working on the next bush market later in the year."

Months of preparation paid off as the widest assortment of stalls were seen at this January's market.

“This is my second time at the Myrtleford Bush Market,” said Romeo Lake from ‘Africa Beautiful Baskets’.

“When I got the email reminder, I jumped straight on it to re-register for this year.

“People are always friendly here, there’s a lovely family atmosphere.

“Already I’ve met three people who remember me from last year which is just great.

“There’s a good turn-out today...even when it’s 30 to 40 degrees, people are still out socialising and enjoying the market.”

“I really like attending the local markets, there's a really nice atmosphere," said Lucy Legget from the 'Sky Gypsies' felt-work, handicrafts and clothing stall.

"Because I live in Bright, people recognise me and know to come and find me at the markets.

“It’s great now it’s held here at the showgrounds: there’s lots of space and shade and it’s great you can drop in and listen to music, wander through the stalls and have a great time.

“All of our stock is made in Nepal, I travel there every year.

“I have a new online website which I’ve just finished, so if people can’t catch up with me; they can find what they need.”

Mia Ozolins from ‘Natures Breeze’ diffusers, candles, incense and ornaments stall said there was a good turn out.

“There’s lots of locals coming around," she said.

"I see our regular customers are coming back to get refills or just coming over to say ‘hi’.

“We’re in a good spot today.

“We mostly drop in to the markets in Bright and the surrounds every weekend to set up a stall."

“This is the 31st Myrtleford Bush Market we’ve been to,” said Jo Lovelace of ‘Enchanted Crystals’ hand-made soaps, jewellery, crystals and hand-rolled incense stall.

“I’ve been supporting the market scene for a long time.

“We’re based in Kiewa, about 20 minutes down the road...it’s lovely and the locals in the area are so nice.

“I love it here, it’s beautiful having our stall here in the avenue at the showgrounds.

"I remember when we were in town on the asphalt during 40 degree days; that used to kill the market, because it got too hot at about noon.

"I’ve seen so many new faces here; you must be having a bumper tourist season!

“It’s been fabulous so far, the organisers have been brilliant, helping us set up and pointing out our site.

“Without the volunteers we wouldn’t have a market.”

The Myrtleford Bush Market is held on the same day every year: the first Friday in January.