Torquay Toys opens

Torquay Toys began well over five years ago in the vibrant coastal town. Thanks to the ever-increasing support of local shoppers, they outgrew their original store, and in late May, moved 55 metres away to a bigger site.

The move to Shop 4-5 at 12 Gilbert Street is a major change for the family business, and they are excited to welcome their much-loved customers in to the new store, a much larger space that provides a more comfortable and enjoyable shopping experience.

Locally owned and operated by long-time Surf Coast residents Jill and Howard Randall, along with their wonderful staff, this independent, boutique toy shop focuses on authentic products with a high level of craftsmanship and quality that has eluded many modern-day toy brands.

Their range of products appeal to a wide range of ages and seek to both entertain and educate.

“It’s been a huge project but we’re excited to announce the new store is officially open. Torquay Toys is proud to have evolved over the years, providing a quality retail store in the rapidly changing Gilbert Street precinct,” Ms Randall said.

“With so much more room to display their wares, customers can expect to find a huge range of quality, fun products to delight every child, with staff who are happy to help customers with their purchase requirements.”

Head in for all the big-ticket items, like Kinderfeets balance bikes, or carefully curated treasures from BigJigs premium quality wooden toys.

Perennial favourites include the softest range of plush toys by Jellycat, quality die-cast model toy cars by Siku and timeless modern play pieces by Olli Ella – the new stock just keeps arriving.

Ms Randall, who previously worked in early childhood education, said: “We choose to stock products that support aspects of child development and we love to encourage children to play, explore and learn.

We were pleased to be able to support the community during Covid lockdowns and remote learning with educational and play resources.”

Catering from newborn to big kids, Torquay Toys’ range includes imaginative-play and sensory toys, games and activities, plus classic throwbacks to family favourites and board games that everyone loves.

You will find timeless wooden toys that may become heirlooms, including nostalgic Australian-themed toys from Melbourne’s own “Make Me Iconic”. Also Australian-designed, head in-store for a huge range of beautiful, compact and affordable activity sets from Tiger Tribe, perfect for flights or long drives on the school holidays.

“We’re off to the Gift Fair in August, where we are excited to reconnect with our community of suppliers after Covid.

We can’t wait to bring back exciting new products that we haven’t seen before,” Ms Randall said.

Community-minded staff and old-fashioned great customer service is why legions of people choose to shop locally at Torquay Toys.

Pop in during the school holidays to pick up some winter activities, making your shopping easier by shopping local. Torquay Toys is open Monday-Saturday 9am-5pm, Sundays from 10am-2pm and 24/7 on their website torquaytoys.com.au.