Special effort for op shop

ST Matthew’s op shop in Wendouree is running a special event day next Saturday with a barbecue and bargains available.

There will be a range of new items, books, cakes and plants for sale and coordinator Alison Donaldson said the event is all about reconnecting with the community.

“Like a lot of places over COVID we just didn’t get the income for a couple of years and we had to close down and we didn’t have any contact with the community,” she said.

“It’s really important that we start to connect back with the community.”

The day will see a range of new goods put on sale and opportunities to share food and meet new people.

“The special effort day will have plant stalls, cakes and a whole selection of brand-new books which we are going to put out on the day,” said Ms Donaldson.

“It’s not only about raising money for the church but also meeting our commitments to the community.

“I think the atmosphere will be exciting because we’ll have a barbeque, nice coffee and when we’ve had them before there’s been a nice buzz and a lot of laughter.”

Ms Donaldson encouraged the community to continue to support volunteer run op shops after what has been a difficult period.

“When people are volunteering they are giving back to the community and it’s also good for your mental health to get out and mix with people because across COVID everyone was so isolated,” she said.

“It’s a good chance now to come in and help in an op shop and reconnect with people.”

The special effort day will take place on Saturday 16 September from 10am until 4pm at 204 Forest Street in Wendouree.