Wantirna Trash & Treasure Market – first in Sunday Markets and the largest operator of open air markets in Australia

Nestled in the heart of Wantirna, the Trash & Treasure Market stands as a quintessential part of Australia’s Sunday market culture, offering a unique blend of nostalgia and discovery. As one of several Trash & Treasure Markets scattered across the country, this particular market has been a staple since the late 1960s, evolving with the times while maintaining its charm.

The Wantirna location, though mostly retaining its original look and appearance, has witnessed significant changes in its surroundings since my frequent visits in the mid-1990s to the early 2000s. The once-open fields now share space with a hospital adjacent to the market, a testament to the evolving landscape of the area. Alongside this transformation, the admission price has seen a modest increase from a few cents to $1.8 per adult, a nominal fee for the treasure trove that awaits within.

Access to the market is exclusively by car, with free parking available—a convenience appreciated by patrons both new and longtime. Open only on Sundays, the market caters to those seeking a unique and eclectic assortment of items, from the practical to the whimsical. There is a bevy of things from second hand gowns to new handcrafted ornaments. (Some people even go home with their new garden with plants from all parts of the countries or a new pet in a golf fish.)

Wantirna Trash & Treasure Market is a platform for individuals to turn their “trash” into someone else’s treasure. Setting up shop requires an early arrival and a modest fee, welcoming both seasoned vendors and newcomers to the selling scene. The success of each market day is often dictated by the weather, with open-air elements influencing the crowd’s turnout. Any vendor will need to be prepared with a large vehicle and plenty of tables and undercover tarps (if the need arises).

While mainstay vendors form the backbone of the market, occasional appearances by new sellers add an element of surprise to each visit. Browsing through the stalls reveals a diverse array of goods, ranging from baked treats and books to clothing and garden tools, creating an enticing experience for shoppers of all interests.

A highlight of the Wantirna Trash & Treasure Market is the occasional opening of the tuckshop, providing a welcomed reprieve for shoppers. Affordable and delicious items, such as the Burger with the Lot priced at $7 and Hot Chips for $4, offer a tasty interlude in the midst of treasure hunting. These bargains add to the overall appeal of the market, creating a holistic experience for both seasoned visitors and newcomers alike. I just love walking through the turnstile and seeing the hot food on display and then picking up a Nippy’s drink from the fridge – it always brings back fond memories.

Wantirna Trash & Treasure Market stands as a nostalgic haven, embodying the essence of Sunday markets in Australia. With its longstanding history, evolving landscape, and a diverse range of offerings, this market is a testament to the enduring charm of treasure hunting in the open air. Whether you’re seeking unique finds or simply indulging in the experience, Wantirna Trash & Treasure Market continues to be a cherished destination for those in search of hidden gems and cherished memories.

Please support the website by liking the article or subscribing to the mailing list.

Here are some of my recent articles: