New store offers eclectic hand-picked homewares

STOCKING a range of household provisions, curated wares and hand-picked home goods, Heathcote General Trader opened in the former Mudwood Studio building recently.

Proprietor Adam Brady said he’s pleased with the response from both locals and passing tourists.

“Grand Final day was particularly busy,” he said. “It was crazy.”

With a background in floristry and interior styling, Mr Brady describes his stock as modern country, earthy, practical and useful.

“I had an idea earlier this year and when Susie Marcroft decided to relocate Mudwood Studio it came to fruition.

“I spend a lot of time sourcing unique finds to suit a wide range of tastes.

“There are a lot of recycled items, and it is important to me to stock as sustainably as possible.

“As well as the stock, all the gift wrapping is bio-degradable or compostable and the whole shop is 99 per cent plastic free.”

Tourist Samantha Holmes recently visited General Trader.

“The store is filled with beautiful homewares,” she said.

“The displays are delightful and it’s a great place to browse and find a special gift.”

Mr Brady and husband Liam Ayres have lived in Heathcote for the past five years.

“Before opening General Trader I worked for Rutherford and Maine and before that in Romsey,” Mr Brady said.

“Liam commutes to Melbourne where he teaches Irish dancing.

“We moved to Heathcote to be closer to his family and both love it here.”

General Trader is open from Thursday to Tuesday from 10am to 4pm, except Sundays when it closes at 2pm.