With a little help from her friends

FAMILY and friends all pitched in to help hairdresser Sharlene Maddocks fulfil her childhood dream of opening her own hair salon.

The Hair Barn opened in the former Toolleen Post Office this week.

“It wouldn’t have been possible without all their help,” said Ms Maddocks.

“I was working part time as a barmaid at the Toolleen Hotel and completed training as a fully qualified hairdresser last year.

“Before Christmas the idea to open a salon came up and everyone got on board.”

Toolleen Hotel owner offered Ms Maddocks the use of the premises at the front of his own home and locals joined to help get it ready.

“Gavin did the electrical and handyman work, Brad did the flooring and Alan the plastering,” said Ms Maddocks.

“And my grandparents Mary and John Knight did so much. I am very grateful to everyone.”

Mary Knight is very proud of her granddaughter.

“From an early age, Sharlene wanted to be a hairdresser,” she said.

“She was diagnosed with ADHD when she was young and education was a struggle but although there were many stops and starts, her tenacity kept her going. “We are all so proud of her and delighted to see what she has achieved after so many struggles.

“The support from the community has been amazing and is a tribute to how much everyone thinks of her.”

Ms Maddocks said she was nervous the night before the salon opened but it felt good to finally be open.

“It’s like a dream,” she said. “It feels unreal and absolutely amazing.

“It has all been a long time in the making, with Mum and Nana have been my biggest supporters.

“They both kept telling me to keep at it and not give up and here it is.

“I am very grateful to everyone who has helped me along the way.

“The support means the world and I look forward to welcoming everyone into the salon.”

The Hair Barn, at 8 Cornella-Toolleen Road, Toolleen, will be open Tuesday to Thursday from 9am to 5pm, Fridays from 10am to 9pm and Saturday from 9am to 2pm.

Bookings can be made on 0477 987 602.