Shoppers on front foot at Steptoes’ rummage

THE task of re-opening an iconic op shop in Ballan became easier at the weekend.

A crowd of bargain hunters filled Ballan Neighbourhood House on Saturday 16 May as part of Steptoes Op Shop’s rummage.

The op shop is moving from its well-known mosaic-covered address to the community organisation at 143 Inglis Street.

It held a special sale on Saturday to clear excess stock ahead of its reopening next week.

Manager and coordinator George said the number of people interested in purchasing items for 50 cents and $1 was unbelievable.

“It was absolutely eye-opening,” she said.

“I really thought it would dwindle right off by 12pm because it was well and truly picked over. It was still busy right up until quarter to 2pm.”

George said there were a lot of happy people.

“To give you an example, one transaction was over $60,” she said.

“Another woman came back three times with her daughters.”

George said it was important to try and sell the stock which included clothing, shoes, toys, linen and cushions.

“It was all stuff that would have gone in white bags to the supplier in Melbourne,” she said. “Some of it was brand new with their tags still on it. So, we just piled it on the tables in the hall, and it was piled 10 high in jumpers or jeans or whatever.”

The op-shop is set to re-open on Thursday 28 May.

“I think most people will just be pleased that their beloved op shop’s back open,” George said. “A lot of them will be coming in obviously to see what it is and how big it is.”