Op shop on the market

IT’S normally clothes, shoes and more that are up for sale at a Ballan op shop, but now the op shop itself is on the market, with hopes high the charitable store can keep running.

Steptoes Op Shop was established by the now defunct Ballan Lionesses, though some of the former service club members still work at the shop.

Over the years it’s donated thousands of dollars to local groups such as the Ballan Fire Brigade, and charities such as the Good Friday Appeal.

But the property, which is now managed by the Ballan Neighbourhood House under lease, has now been put up for sale.

Manager of Ballan Neighbourhood House, Mary Francis, said Steptoes was still running on a business-as-usual basis, and it’s hoped the new owner will continue to allow the volunteers’ work to continue.

“Ballan Neighbourhood House’s Steptoes Op Shop has enjoyed an excellent relationship with the current owner,” she said.

“Because of this, we have been able to rescue tons up on tons of items that would have gone to landfill, provide affordable options for families, and donate much of the proceeds to deserving community groups and initiatives.

“We hope to carry this relationship across to whoever is lucky enough to acquire this valuable community asset and continue our essential work.”