By Casey Neill
More than 28,000 people flocked to Dandenong Market to celebrate its 150th birthday.
The Dandenong icon hosted jubilee celebrations on Sunday 16 October, featuring food, rides, entertainment and more.
Louise Noy was among the revellers and was pleased to see a “very big crowd” show up for the occasion.
“I’m glad that they’re recognising how it got where it is today,” she said.
Her family was involved in the journey from livestock market to the huge variety of stalls on offer today.
Louise’s grandfather Joseph had a dairy farm and sold his cows at the market.
“Then when they retired, my dad (Hank) had his own farm as well and he used to take the cows there,” she said.
“I was always there as a kid.
“I moved away from the area, but I always went there when I was on holidays.
“It was always a place that I always wanted to go back and set up my own stall.”
So 15 years ago, she did just that.
“I have a huge range of dog treats. It’s a smorgasbord,” she said.
Louise also stocks shampoos, collars, leads, and information on dogs.
“I do know what I’m on about. I’m there to help you keep your dog happy and healthy.
“I just love pets.
“It was a hobby and then I went into it full time.”
A statue unveiling will bring three months of Dandenong Market birthday celebrations to a close on Friday 4 November.
The bronze sculpture by artist Anne Ross will reflect life in the market.
The market kicked off festivities on 13 September with the launch of Dandenong Market: Celebrating 150 Years book and the official opening of Rosling Lane, a 20-metre historical mural.
