General News
5 May, 2026
Entrepreneurs of the future
A GROUP of 34 young entrepreneurs are learning how to present, price and sell their products through a series of workshops, ahead of the Mini Makers Markets at Tanks Arts Centre on Sunday 17 May as part of the Cairns Children’s Festival.
The Mini Makers Markets provide a platform for entrepreneurs aged seven to 17 to showcase their ideas while developing practical business skills by putting young creators in front of the thousands of families attending the festival across the May weekend.
This is the first time the Cairns Children’s Festival will be taken over by young stallholders, spotlighting the next generation of entrepreneurs.
Mayor Amy Eden said Cairns had always been a place where people rolled up their sleeves and gave things a go – and the Mini Makers carrried that same spirit in smaller hands.
“It’s creative, it’s practical, and it’s exactly how the next generation finds its footing,” she said.
Among the young stallholders is 10-year-old Chelsea Daley, who will be selling homemade pony treats inspired by her own horses.
“It is nice to do it. I like meeting people and getting advice,” Chelsea said. “I have been selling online, but this will be my first market.”
Twelve-year-old Ellexis Ives will bring a mix of dragon puppets, oil pastel artworks and driftwood lamps to the market through her brand, Elle’s Fantasy Crafts.
“I wanted to express my creativity and just have a bit of fun selling things,” Ellexis said.
Eight-year-old Lola Graham is behind Lola’s Growing Gardens, selling a range of homegrown plants including passionfruit, beans, strawberries and herbs.
