Open for business in Fitzroy

Fitzroy, Melbourne’s bustling inner-city suburb, well known for its eclectic mix of culture, art, and fashion, has finally welcomed its very own Vinnies Shop as the latest addition to its vibrant and iconic Brunswick Street. Vinnies Fitzroy is located at 214 Brunswick Street and open seven days a weeks, 10.00am to 6.00pm.

Today’s grand opening event was attended by many guests, including St Vincent de Paul Society Victoria’s Group CEO Dr Jennifer Fitzgerald AM, St Vincent de Paul Society Victoria’s State President Michael Quinn and Brendan Podbury as Northern Central Council President.

A vision realised

“We have wanted to be in Fitzroy for many years and finally found the right location. One that is in the right position in the street right across the tram stops, one that has the right vibes and one that is big enough,” said Liz Randle, Head of Merchandise & Retail Innovation.

The store boasts a stunning interior with high vaulted ceilings and rustic wooden ceiling beams that add to its theatrical charm, as Liz excitedly pointed out.

She also highlighted the wide variety of offerings: "There are over 10,000 units of apparel, including a fabulous denim destination and a great winter range with knitwear, jackets and long winter coats. It's a great, affordable place for everyone to find high-quality items."

Formal opening and acknowledgments

Before the shop doors were officially opened, the formal proceedings began with David Forrest, Brunswick Regional Council President of St Vincent de Paul Society Victoria. He highlighted the significance of the new store for the local community.

“The funds from this shop will directly support our work, including areas of Fitzroy and its surroundings. All of this assistance leads directly to helping people within our community who fall on hard times or are feeling the burden of the rising cost of living,” he said, adding that he, being an almost local, will be delighted to help spend and raise money in the new Vinnies Shop, thanking everyone involved in making the shop opening possible.

More shops opening due to growing need

State President, Michael Quinn, also conveyed his thanks. He pointed out that the opening of the new Vinnies Fitzroy comes only weeks after opening new shops in Wallan and St Albans and a new 'PopUP by Vinnies' welcoming customers within the next 24 hours.

“We need more shops because the need is there,” Michael Quinn explained. “The cost of living is affecting everyone. It is affecting the people we look after. It’s affecting our members, our volunteers, our employees, everyone.

"Last year, we provided $21 million in assistance, and the demand continues to grow. Our shops play a crucial role in funding this support, and we are ever so grateful to our members, to employees and our wonderful volunteers who run our operations. Without you, we couldn’t do it.”

Connection to the local community

Father Max Vodola from the All Saints Parish in Fitzroy continued the formalities by blessing the new shop, including the cash register.

He reminded guests that the new shop opened the day before the Feast of Saint Mary MacKillop. The Australian Saint was born in Fitzroy in 1842.

As Father Max said: “There is a real sense of coming together today in terms of remembering her legacy of education for the poor and care of the marginalised.”

Area Support Manager Paula Moro also praised the Vinnies team for their hard work and dedication: "This shop has been described as beautiful, theatrical and magical. It's a connection to the community, whether through volunteering or our services. It has taken a lot of effort to get to this point.”

Also present were Charlie Spendlove, Executive Manager Brand & Commercial, Neil Harvey, General Manager Retail, Scott Marsden, Head of Retail, and Mark O'Connell, Head of Property, who was full of praise for his team.

“The successful opening of Vinnies Fitzroy marks a significant achievement, thanks to the exceptional efforts of the property team. They skillfully navigated numerous challenges to create a welcoming and safe environment for both employees and customers,” he said.

“Their dedication to ensuring safety protocols, meticulous planning, and effective problem solving was instrumental in transforming the shop into what will be a vibrant community hub.”

A Successful Opening

By the time the shop finally opened, a queue of eager customers had already formed.

Shop Manager Ivan’s prediction that items are going to fly out the door came true within the first minutes.

"I've waited a long time for this shop," said one young mother who had several winter coats for her daughter in her basket: "You wouldn't think this is second-hand. The value you get for your dollar is amazing."

Another customer, with a basket full of books, shared her joy: "I love finding great books here. It's a nice reflection on the community and exactly what you need in winter. And I love the idea of the money going back into the community here in Fitzroy where many people are doing it tough."

As the community gathered to celebrate the opening, Vinnies Fitzroy promises to be a beacon of hope and support, offering high-quality, affordable goods while directly benefiting people in need. The second shop, set to open soon, is eagerly anticipated as Vinnies continues to expand its positive impact on the community.