A big crowd rolled into Pallamallawa on Sunday for the first edition of the Pally Bush Markets for 2026.

Held on the grounds of the Pallamallawa School of Arts and War Memorial Hall and surrounding streets and parkland, the Pally Bush Markets have become a bush institution in a short space of time.

Market-day co-ordinator, Col Pring, said Sunday’s markets – the first of three big events for 2026 – were again well supported by stall-holders and visitors to Pallamallawa.

“This has been another really successful Pally Bush Markets,” Mr Pring said.

“We had 75 stalls this time, and actually took two bookings from people who turned up on the morning, just off the cuff.

“We lost some stall-holders, due to issues with the cost of fuel, but all in all it’s been a good roll-up, with a great crowd.

“There were so many things to choose from, with stall-holders coming from as far away as Sydney and the Gold Coast. Closer to home, we had stalls from Bonshaw, Goondiwindi, Inverell, Narrabri, Tamworth and, of course, Moree.

“They’ve come from all over the place, with a lot of people here as well,” he said.

Mr Pring said stall-holders reported good sales during a busy morning on a perfect autumn day.

“Most stall-holders have done well, with good sales,” he said.

“We thank everyone for coming along and participating, and supporting the markets. There has been lots of happy customers, and lots of happy stall-holders.”

The Pally Bush Markets will be held again on Sunday, July 19 and Sunday, October 18.

“We do three markets a year, and the October markets are our Pally Mega Bush Markets,” Mr Pring said.

“In the past, we’ve had a petting zoo and pony rides for the kids and this year, we’re looking at doing something a little bit different for all the kids to get involved with and have fun.

“The October markets are definitely our biggest of the year – we had something like 110 stall-holders last year – and they’re the perfect way to wind up the year,” he said.