THE SECRET WE CAN’T AFFORD TO LOSE
Inside the Fight to Save the Baldivis Lions Market
by Wade McColl (14/05/2026)
(L-R): Grahame Niven Baldivis Lions, Wade McColl Baldivis Times Founder & Director, & Debbie Tierney Baldivis Lions. Photo by Myah Loo, Baldivis Times 2026.
There is a specific kind of magic that happens at the Baldivis Reserve on the first Saturday of every month - it’s in the chatter between neighbours, the laughter of kids on the bouncy castle, and the tireless work of volunteers like Charter Secretary Grahame Niven, who has served as an active Lion for 40 years.
But behind the welcoming smiles and the smell of fresh coffee, there lies a stark reality.
A Legacy Under Pressure
Jewellery from local vendors stand at Baldivis Lions Market. Photo by Wade McColl, Baldivis Times 2026.
The Baldivis Lions Community Market was born from a “long-term dream” in 2012, eventually growing to a height of 80 stalls and 35 carbooters. For years, the proceeds from these mornings have funded over $20,000 annually for local and international charities, including providing specialised equipment for families with disabled children.
However, the COVID-19 pandemic acted as a wrecking ball for many local vendors. The max capacity days were replaced by a struggle for survival as small businesses were forced to close their doors.
More Than Just a Market
Baldivis Lions Market vendor pictured with their beloved pup. Photo by Wade McColl, Baldivis Times 2026.
Walking through the market at 324 Baldivis Rd, you realise this isn’t just a place to buy fruit and veg - it’s a sanctuary. The market backs onto a stunning nature reserve where families can take in the wonders of the outdoors under the watchful eyes of native Carnaby’s Black Cockatoos.
Carnaby’s Black Cockatoos (Zanda latirostris) at the Baldivis Lions Market, North Baldivis. Photo by Wade McColl, Baldivis Times 2026.
During our visit, we caught up with Councillor Mike Crichton and Hon Madeleine King MP, both of whom were on the ground listening to the concerns of residents. We also met the team at Ever Hope Church, who sell $5 plants to support homelessness initiatives, and the volunteers at Greyhound Adoptions WA, who brought 22 greyhounds down to meet the community.
(L-R): Cr Mike Crichton City of Rockingham, Wade McColl Baldivis Times Founder & Director, & Hon Madeleine King MP. Photo by Myah Loo, Baldivis Times 2026.
How Can You Help?
Greyhound Adoptions WA Team at Baldivis Lions Market. Photo by Wade McColl, Baldivis Times 2026.
The Lions Club is more than just a group of volunteers; they are the facilitators of events that create memories for our community, but for the market to return to its former glory, it needs new blood.
They are calling out for:
Farmers and Fresh Produce Vendors
Food Trucks and Artisan Creators
Local Musicians and Community Groups
Local Sellers and Stall Owners
Greyhounds from Greyhound Adoptions WA at Baldivis Lions Market. Photo by Wade McColl, Baldivis Times 2026.
As Grahame Niven and the team prepare for the first Saturday of the month, the message to Baldivis is clear: We need to buy local more than ever. A gold coin donation and a morning spent supporting local stalls isn’t just a Saturday out, it’s an investment in the future of our suburb.