A Century of Community Investment
The story of community investment at the Red Hill Recreation Reserve began in 1915, when community-minded locals came together to purchase land for the district's growing community.
The Red Hill Agricultural & Horticultural Society was formed in 1922, beginning its own century-long association with the Reserve. Over the following decades, the Society helped secure additional land, financially supported the building of the Reserve's major pavilions, and orchestrated the restoration of the historic Pioneers (Green) Pavilion when it needed it most.
That same commitment continues today, with the Society regularly securing funding to drive projects that benefit the greater Red Hill community - from reserve upgrades to new community spaces like Jim's Shed at Scott House.
Every stall booked and every visit made at Hill & Ridge Community Market helps carry that century-long tradition forward.
Community at the Heart of Red Hill
The Hill & Ridge Community Market is about more than just market day.
We're a not-for-profit at heart, which means the good stuff that happens here doesn't stop at the gates - it flows straight back into the community around us. Support local, spend local, give back where we can. Simple as that.
Supporting Local Clubs & Community Groups
Our local clubs and community groups aren't just visitors to Hill & Ridge - they're part of the fabric of it. Take our Community BBQ: the Red Hill Lions kindly donated the whole set-up, so sporting and youth groups can simply roll up, serve up the egg and bacon rolls and raise funds for their own programs. The Red Hill Football & Netball Club, Red Hill Tennis Club, Red Hill CFA Junior Cadets and Red Hill Venturers have all had their turn at the tongs.
Then there are the Red Hill Scouts, whose scone stall has become a bit of a market institution - every scone sold helps keep Scouting affordable for local families. We also welcome other community groups and not-for-profits with complimentary sites, so they've got a place to say hello, share what they do and meet the neighbours.
Red Hill Junior Football Club President, Julie Redhouse interviewed by Sally Willliams at the Hill & Ridge Community Market - Red Hill.
Images by Richard Cornish
Putting Our Money Where Our Market Is
Supporting local isn't just about giving people a place to trade - we like to put our money where our market is, too. Throughout the season we buy products and vouchers from our stallholders and local businesses for giveaways and community fundraising. This season that's grown into a partnership with Mornington Peninsula Produce, with a monthly hamper celebrating the best of what the Peninsula grows and makes.
More good things on the way. Stay tuned.