A glittering new boutique in Blaxland greeted more than 50 Rotarians, partners and friends who turned out to enjoy an opening night inspection on Friday, March 15.
The new shop at 3/156 Great Western Highway, Blaxland is well stocked with fashionable men's, women's and children's clothing, footwear, household goods and a wide selection of general stock - guaranteed to interest the most discerning shoppers.
The shop is the latest community support project by Lower Blue Mountains Rotary and has already attracted a strong clientele since opening its doors.
Chairperson of the 'Rotary Recycles' Operations Committee, Rotary District Governor Susan Wakefield OAM, conducted a simple opening ceremony and acknowledged the foresight of senior Rotarian Trevor Lloyd OAM in seizing the opportunity for Lower Blue Mountains Rotary Club when the former Bible Society Opportunity Shop closed its doors late last year.
Rotarian and experienced department store designer Fiona McCulloch joined forces with chairperson Wakefield to reshape the layout of the store - working closely with other Rotarians in store manager Kerry Gunn, secretary Kerry Thomas and committee members Pamela Noal, John Wakefield OAM (treasurer), Judith Smith and Trevor Lloyd through a very intensive preparation period during the last two months.
The store has been redecorated, new fittings installed, a change room and storage area added (thanks to Rotarian handymen Terry Marshall and Bill Atkin), and finally filled out with a very impressive array of 'new' pre-loved stock.
Susan Wakefield invited the store manager Kerry Gunn and Lower Blue Mountains Rotary President Michelle Fisher to join her in cutting a ribbon to officially open the store.
Federal Member for Macquarie Susan Templeman and her husband Ron Fuller, and State Member for Blue Mountains, Trish Doyle, were special guests at the opening.
Kerry Gunn said the aim is to create a regular source of income for Lower Blue Mountains Rotary's many local charities and special projects - along with providing quality goods for families with limited income. Trading hours are 10am-4pm Monday to Friday. Weekend trading may be considered if demand warrants increased hours.
"Our initial aim is to provide a happy workplace for our volunteer staff - with fun, friendship and good service for our valued clientele," said Ms Gunn.
