Small community, big hearts

A THRIVING Op Shop, activities and services form the Pyalong Neighbourhood House but the backbone behind it all is an amazing community spirit where people look out for each other.

The former local government building and community centre has never been more alive.

Nineteen years ago, Pyalong Neighbourhood House president Moira Waye was approached by another resident and asked if she would like to join the house committee.

“I’d never even been in the neighbourhood house,” said Ms Waye. “But I went along and I’m still here.

“The building was transformed into a community centre after the council amalgamated and became part of the Mitchell Shire in 1994.

“Eventually it became the Pyalong Neighbourhood House.

“Over the years we have run a variety of different activities here from art, tai chi, book club, creative writing, scale modelling and day trips.

“Some of the activities have been on hold since COVID but we always welcome suggestions and use whatever skills people have.”

Since 2019 volunteers at the house have focussed on collecting for farmers in need and have won several awards for their efforts.

“The drought hit farmers very hard,” said Ms Waye.

“We helped collect food donations for Need for Feed and we are still doing what we can for farmers who are suffering in drought conditions.

“Our Op Shop has grown considerably with donations coming not only from the local area but from as far away as Kinglake and St Kilda.

“The money raised all goes to help those in our community who need it.

“It’s not just the farmers; there are also a lot of lonely people in the community, and we encourage them to get out with trips and activities.

“We started with one room but now the Op Shop has spread through the whole building, and we also have storage buildings outside.

“At the moment we have a sale as we move from winter into summer.

“Adults clothes are $2 and children’s and babies’ clothes $1.”

The Pyalong Neighbourhood House and Op Shop is open on Monday mornings before 1pm, or 9am to 4.30pm on Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday.

For further information call (03) 5785 1462.