Mobile food trucks to expand across Bass Coast hot spots
A new 12-month mobile business program being piloted by Bass Coast Shire Council has already won wide support from Inverloch traders and local residents.
A FRESH wave of mobile street vendors is headed to the Bass Coast as part of a new 12-month mobile business program being piloted by Bass Coast Shire Council.
The initiative is designed to inject fresh energy into popular tourist locations with everything from food trucks and artisanal coffee vans to mobile wellness experiences.
Council emphasised that the program was strategically structured to balance innovation with existing commercial ecosystems. The chosen trading sites have been selected specifically to complement brick-and-mortar storefronts ensuring fair economic distribution while introducing additional temporary offerings.
Recognising the untapped potential of the region's existing mobile workforce Mayor Brett Tessari said the pilot was an exciting opportunity to support local businesses and explore new ways to activate public spaces.
"We know there are some fantastic mobile businesses operating across Bass Coast, whether at markets, events or on private commercial land and this program is about creating more opportunities for them to grow, connect with customers and reach new audiences.
"Whether it's grabbing a coffee, enjoying something delicious or discovering a unique local offering, mobile businesses can add character and vibrancy to our public spaces.
"Our established businesses are an important part of what makes Bass Coast such a great place to live and visit. This pilot is about building on that, creating opportunities for mobile operators to offer something complementary and bring even more variety to our communities.
"We're excited to see the creative ideas that come forward and how they could enhance the experience for both our residents and visitors.
"Whether providing a quick morning caffeine fix, serving diverse culinary options, or introducing niche mobile services, the incoming fleet of operators is expected to add distinct character and vibrancy to public spaces,” said Mayor Tessari.
Existing traders at Inverloch have welcomed the idea.
“Could be good for the town depending on what traders they are and what the conditions are,” said Jordan Thomas a barista at The Local in Inverloch.
“The town has heaps of food options and any way of getting more people to try them is a good thing, as long as they support local business.”
According to Bass Coast Shire the program pilot represents a proactive step toward reimagining how residents and visitors can interact with the region’s scenic landscapes.
“Our established businesses are an important part of what makes Bass Coast such a great place to live and visit. This pilot is about building on that, creating opportunities for mobile operators to offer something complementary and bring even more variety to our communities,” Mayor Tessari added.
Toni Poppe from Cape Paterson was enthusiastic about the idea.
“It’s a great idea. I think different options for food and beverages at a number of locations could be more beneficial than full-time leases.”
Trish McBride from Inverloch was also enthusiastic about more mobile vendors.
“I think it’s great to have a bit of competition and variety, so start-ups can have a go.”
Cr Tessari encouraged mobile business owners to consider applying.
"If you've been looking for an opportunity to expand your business or reach new customers, we'd love to hear from you. This is a chance to try something new, showcase what your business has to offer and help shape the future of mobile trading.”
Six sites have been identified across Phillip Island, Anderson and Inverloch with no more than one licence at each site at any one time. The pilot is for a fixed period of 12 months before council decides whether to continue the program or not.
The designated sites are the Rotary Centenary Park carpark at Inverloch which has strong visibility and regular community events including the Parkrun on Saturdays, South Gippsland Yacht Club carpark, Anderson roundabout carpark, Ventnor Beach carpark and the Red Rocks carpark at the Jetty Triangle in Cowes.
To learn more about the Mobile Business Pilot Program visit engage.basscoast.vic.gov.au/mobile-business-pilot-program
