A new chapter for old vault

Who says banks are only for keeping money safe? For the latest Vinnies in Mount Waverley, 264 Stephensons Road, the clever property design team transformed an old bank into a treasure trove of unique finds and community spirit.

From vintage fashion to high-quality designer donations and a range of Christmas surprises fit for the upcoming season, this space is all about giving back while offering something special for every shopper looking for sustainable and environmental fashion, every day and trend items.

Located in the southeast of Melbourne, Mount Waverley is a suburb that Vinnies has long hoped to serve, this new shop is already off to a fantastic start. Community enthusiasm was reflected in many eager customers waiting for the doors to open on the shop’s first day.

"We are opening with a fabulous selection of books, a strong spring and summer collection and our renowned sustainable Christmas donations," shared Liz Randle, Head of Merchandise & Retail Innovation. “It’s a testament to the support and excitement that this new shop has brought.”

A warm welcome and a shared mission

The opening ceremony with Liz Fitzgerald, the Waverley Regional Council President of the St Vincent de Paul Society Victoria, as the MC, was filled with words of hope and unity. Rev Father Stephen Battal, reflected on the more profound mission behind the shop’s opening. He emphasised that “the people who work here have embraced the mission of Christ to support the poor with their hearts - the mission taken up by St Vincent de Paul.”

St Vincent de Paul Society Victoria’s State President, Michael Quinn, spoke about the importance of coming together as a team: “All the volunteers, all the staff and members - if we can work together, we can achieve so much more.”

Continuing with a smile, he said: “I am pleased to know this was a bank here. So I am banking on everyone to do great work here.” He also highlighted that the new location was one of seven stores rolled out this year. 

This is a significant increase from the usual three per year and reflects the growing need for Vinnies' services, which have seen a 43% increase in calls for help compared to last year, as the State President explained.

Mark O’Connell, Head of Property, also expressed pride in the team’s efforts, saying, “I am incredibly proud of the property team for their outstanding project management of the new shop, successfully overcoming challenges such as the refit of a former bank premises and incorporating the previous structure within our Vinnies floorplan. Collaboration with the retail design team is a testament to the innovative teamwork required to complete the project on time and within budget successfully.”

A true team effort

Paula Moro, Vinnies Area Support Manager, who helped coordinate the setup, also expressed her pride in the collaborative effort, saying, “It is very sweet and cosy. The people I got to work with are dedicated, committed, loyal and have given up their time to set this shop up. I feel humbled.” 

Unique finds and new beginnings

The shop’s opening celebrates everything that makes Vinnies special - from its unique items to its welcoming atmosphere. Louise Kember, the new shop manager, shared her favourite finds: “The shoe area, especially the black dressy shoes look gorgeous for a night out and a unique donation of Disney paintings make great little Christmas gifts for Disney collectors. The paintings even come with certificates.”

The shop had also caught the attention of well-known thrifters drawn to the vintage treasures inside. “I run into the men’s section and go for the T-shirts. That’s the main thing I like vintage T-shirts, T-shirts with TV show promos, or Video game promos. Most of the time, when it comes to clothing, I look for things for myself. But I keep an open mind - really anything that stands out and is interesting,” shared Mitch from Retro Rescuers. Their excitement adds to the buzz around this new space, drawing in shoppers eager to uncover hidden gems.

A first-time volunteer, Emily shared how her connection to the building inspired her to join the team. “My mum is a member of the St Vincent de Paul Society Victoria local conference, and I want to give back. I live locally, and I was really excited when I saw the sign that Vinnies was looking for volunteers because this was a bank when I was a little kid and I thought: Yes, I am in for that. I have a day off from work every week and thought I might just give it to here. The team is so much fun to work with.”

A welcoming space for all

With the doors now open, this Vinnies shop is ready to become a hub of community spirit. It will offer everything from sustainable Christmas donations to one-of-a-kind treasures and a unique change room located inside the old bank vault.

More than just a retail space, it’s where people come together to make a difference - one purchase, one conversation and one act of kindness at a time. The funds from the shop will directly support the work of our conferences, including the areas of Mount Waverley and surrounding areas.