General News
7 November, 2025
Heart and soul
RUSTY’S Markets – which is marking its 50th birthday – is more than just a purveyor of fresh farm produce and other goods and services.
For many locals and stallholders, it is social hub, a place to meet friends and a cornerstone of Cairns’ identity.
Markets’ founder Rusty Rees was a Cairns icon, known for his trademark red shirts and his daring ‘Wheel of death’ motorcycle stunt performances in the 1950s.
A showman and entrepreneur, Mr Rees believed that “the school of life” was the best education one could get.
In the early 1970s, when a group of young hippies approached him about starting a market, he agreed.
Today, with stalls bursting and crowds from all walks of life coming together each weekend, he would no doubt be proud of what his markets have become.
Wayne Rees, the son of Rusty, recalls the tradition fondly.
“I still go down there every Saturday morning,” he said.
“Even though we’ve got nothing to do with the markets anymore, I still enjoy getting through the vegies and talking to the stallholders and grabbing a coffee with friends. It’s a big part of my life.”
Wayne Rees worked at the markets in his younger days, often starting at 3.30am and finishing around 3pm.
“The market was full of characters,” he said.
“There were hippies, political parties and every charity in Cairns selling raffle tickets. It was a real part of the community.”
Ger Thao, a long-time stallholder, remembers the very beginnings.
“It was very natural, very humble,” he said.
“Rusty himself was humble, driving an old car, but he built something incredible.”
In the early years, farmers would sell produce directly off the back of their trucks, often in mud, rain or shine.
“Now it’s all undercover, much better and more sophisticated,” his son Wayne Rees said.
“The markets have evolved, but the spirit remains the same,” he said.
People behind the stalls
Mr Rees junior isn’t the only markets’ regular reflecting on Rusty’s legacy.
Long-time stallholders, such as Grace (surname withheld) from Papua New Guinea, have been part of the markets since 2003.
“Most of the things we sell come from our gardens back home,” Grace said.
“But we also bring unique foods like sago that you don’t find on other stalls.”
For Grace, the markets also represent a sense of community.
“It’s where you meet people, develop relationships and socialise. You just come to relax and sit, talk to people and meet new friends.”
Mr Rees junior echoes the sentiment, recalling how many stallholders have used Rusty’s as a stepping stone to larger businesses, with some returning to the markets after setbacks to rebuild their trade.
Came here on our knees
Phil Davis, whose stall he shares with his son – Fat Cat’s Son Fresh Fruit and Veg – has been a fixture for decades.
“We came here on our knees (financially speaking) 35 years ago and Rusty helped us and helped everyone,” he said.
“The markets initially began small but grew larger over time. It’s amazing to see people grow their businesses from these markets.”
Andrew Mashford, a dedicated markets’ supporter who even built a small shrine to Rusty, said it was “incredible to see the number of small businesses that started here”.
“Rusty created a space where everyone could begin something and it’s still nurturing that spirit today,” he said.
New faces, such as Elisha Roboti and his partner Seneka Monkhouse, owners of Barista Sista, highlight Rusty’s international appeal.
Dream come true
“It’s honestly a bit of a dream come true owning our own business,” Mr Roboti said. The Barista Sista owners serve tourists and locals alike, many from Japan and China, who come to the markets early in the morning.
“Rusty’s is established, it’s rustic and local, a symbol of fresh fruit and veg,” he said.
Fresh flowers too
Rusty’s isn’t just about fruit and veg either.
Heidi Piccolo, owner of Basilisk Blooms, has been selling flowers at Rusty’s for over 30 years.
“I leave my farm at 1.15am to get here by 2.30am,” she said.
“I’ve seen shops open, shops close, cyclones and everything in between,” she said.
“People come from all over the world and Australia, Sydney, Melbourne and Brisbane to buy flowers here. Rusty’s is known internationally.”
Her loyal customer, Donna (surname withheld) said: “Heidi puts together a bouquet in two seconds flat and people walk away with an armful, completely in love with them.
“She’s got the best flower stall in North Queensland.”
Looking ahead
Rusty’s current general manager Justin Welchl emphasises the markets’ enduring charm.
“I hope it stays exactly the way it is,” he said.
“People are used to it, they’re familiar with it and it’s good for all the shopkeepers who have stalls here. Rusty’s continues to offer opportunities for businesses and a place for the community to gather.”
From Rusty’s humble beginnings, the 50th anniversary is a celebration of resilience, entrepreneurship and community spirit.
As Wayne Rees puts it: “It’s more than a market, it’s a part of our lives.”
