VINNIES PREPARES TO LAUNCH HERVEY BAY'S LARGEST OP SHOP

Hervey Bay will soon be the home of one of the largest Vinnies shops in Queensland.

After all, when you’re dealing with the whale capital of Australia, it’s important to go big.

The expansive 1,500m² Vinnies on Boat Harbour Drive is set to make a real splash for local op-shoppers and bargain hunters in the lead up to the grand opening on Saturday 7 December.

The massive Vinnies, opening at the former BCF site, is set to become the most popular Vinnies in Queensland, thanks to its prime location, impressive size, strong team of volunteers, and a real appetite for op-shopping in the region.

Treasure seekers are invited to explore a wide range of pre-loved clothing, homewares and more at the new store, which promises to be a shopping destination like no other in the area.

Replacing the current Hervey Bay store – already one of the top three performing stores in the state – the new thrift haven is expected to be a Queensland leader in sales.

Shoppers can explore a treasure trove of pre-loved fashion and goods, with proceeds directly supporting local residents in need.

Opening day will also feature a sausage sizzle, face painting and Vinnies voucher giveaways to celebrate the new Shop!

Vinnies Queensland Northern Retail Operations Manager, Linda de Blasio, said the opening of the store marked a significant milestone for the Society, reflecting the rising demand for sustainable and affordable shopping options during challenging economic times.

“This is an exciting step forward as we open the doors to Hervey Bay’s largest op-shop,” Linda said.

“We’re proud to meet the needs of style-savvy, budget-conscious, and environmentally aware shoppers who are choosing second-hand as a sustainable way to shop.”

Linda highlighted the success of the May and June 50% off sale, which delivered the biggest retail sales week on record for the organisation.

“This demonstrates just how much Hervey Bay residents value affordable and eco-friendly shopping,” she said.

“In the 2023-2024 financial year alone, Vinnies sold 9.3 million pre-loved items, keeping quality goods out of landfill while generating vital funds to support our work in local communities.”

In the last 12 months, Vinnies Queensland on the Fraser Coast supported around 5,000 locals in need with more than $210,000 in emergency support.

“At a time when many Queenslanders are feeling the strain of the cost-of-living crisis, every purchase made at Vinnies helps us deliver essential services like food, housing assistance, and support programs to those who need it most,” Linda said.

“Shopping at Vinnies here in Hervey Bay isn’t just about finding great bargains — it’s about making a difference in the lives of people doing it tough.”

The store is located at 130-140 Boat Harbour Drive, Hervey Bay, and will open from 9am on Saturday, 7 December.

To find your local Vinnies Shop, visit vinnies.org.au/qld/shops