The question of whether the Car Boot Markets will return to Lismore is burning in the community’s collective mind.

The market, which has been an integral part of the lifestyle of Lismore since it began in 1988, is loved and sorely missed since the 2022 flood.

The Lismore App is regularly asked if and when they will be returning. Here is the latest information.

When approached by the Lismore App, Car Boot organiser Marny Bonner stated that she has no information on when the car-boot markets will recommence.

(Car Boot Markets July 2020)

She reported that the hold-up is due to Lismore Square still needing to renovate the area following the flood and that they are currently prioritising upstairs renovations.

The market has tried several alternative locations in town, including the Harold Fredericks Car Park, for several months, but none were deemed suitable for ongoing use due to weather limitations.

When the Lismore App contacted Lismore Square Management for further information, the response didn’t provide any concrete answers. What seems to be clear from their end is that the situation around the use of the Lismore Square car-park is a bit more complex than simply pending renovations and will not be resolved rapidly.

It was made clear, however, that ongoing discussions are happening, and that the relationship between Management and the Car Boot Market is intact and mutually good-willed.

Shaun Haysom, Manager of the Lismore Shopping Square, is a Northern Rivers local born and bred himself, and is intimately aware of the social and economic value the community receives from the Car Boot Markets.

While many shoppers assume that the car-boot markets has historically brought business to the Lismore Square itself, long-term retailers tell a different tale, an issue that surely can’t be ignored by management in the decision-making process.

It was again reiterated that a resolution would be reached by the end of the year.