Ready to serve: New Vinnies Shop opens in St Albans

Welcoming community and ready to serve

What does it take to fit out and set up a vibrant new Vinnies Shop in just seven days? The dedicated team at Vinnies St Albans, consisting of 20+ volunteers, one shop manager and one duty manager, knows the answer all too well: steadfast dedication and fabulous teamwork.

Together with around 40 attendees, including representatives of the St Vincent de Paul Society Victoria, the team of St Alban’s latest shopping destination at 276-278 Main Road East recently celebrated the blessing and grand opening of the 116th Vinnies Shop in Victoria. Like its counterparts across the state, it is set to be a paradise for sustainability-, fashion- and budget-conscious shoppers, supporting the local community with every purchase made.

Remarkable achievement in record time

The new shop, set up in just seven days, stands as a testament to the dedication and hard work of the Vinnies team. The Regional Council President, Armanda Bianco, praised the efforts, stating, "Without the ongoing support of the Vinnies’ teams, we would not be able to support those in the community experiencing hardship."

Community support and assistance

Funds generated from the new shop will directly support St Vincent de Paul Society's conferences in St Albans and surrounding areas. These funds will be used to provide food vouchers, crisis accommodation, educational assistance, utilities and other essential services to people in need. Reverend Maurie Cooney of the local Sacred Heart-Emmaus Parish noted the significance of the shop in a growing and prospering area, yet one where many locals face significant pressures.

Understanding the local area

Reverend Cooney described St Albans as an evolving part of Greater Metropolitan Melbourne. "In the 1950s, there were large blocks with weatherboard houses and spacious yards. Now, these blocks are being replaced by townhouses, which adds to the impression of growing prosperity here with great public transport and easy access to major roads," he explained. He also highlighted the pressures this expansion brings, particularly for those managing their lives in challenging times.

Reverend Cooney also emphasised the diverse range of shoppers expected at the new Vinnies Shop, noting, "We have ‘sustainability warriors’ in the neighbourhood who will come here. We've got the funky kind of people who like to buy a bit of retro, and we will get people who really need the support because they can't afford to shop somewhere else."

Personal connections and community impact

Area Service Manager Kyama Fraser expressed her pride and emotional connection to the new shop. "It's a masterpiece, and it has been an amazing achievement by everyone. It's been a lot of blood, sweat and tears, but most of all a lot of teamwork that I have never seen before," she said. Having grown up in St Albans, Kyama shared that the shop means a lot to her, and her heartfelt connection underscores the shop's importance to the community.

‘Vinnies always has great quality items’

Local shoppers were enthusiastic about the new Vinnies Shop with many eagerly waiting for the doors to open. One shopper from Keilor Downs said: "I am so excited that a new Vinnies has opened in St Albans. My friend picked me up this morning and didn't tell me where we were going. We both love op shopping, and Vinnies always has great quality items. Look at what I have in my shopping basket. Almost full, and I’ve just started."

Another St Albans local, who was among the first to enter the shop, shared: "I have a job interview next week and need something nice and professional to wear. I was queuing outside with ten or fifteen people to get into Vinnies. But you don't have to worry about missing out when you see how big the shop is. And I hear new stock is coming all the time. It's great to have a bigger Vinnies."

Continuing a legacy of service

State President Michael Quinn highlighted the rich history of the St Vincent de Paul Society, founded in 1833 by Frederic Ozanam in France before it started in Australia 170 years ago. He emphasised the importance of the people who keep the Society's mission alive. "The history goes on and on, but the only reason it goes on is because of the people in it," Michael said. He praised the dedication of the 6,200 volunteers and 3,700 members who contribute to the Society's ongoing efforts.

Neil Harvey, General Manager Retail, also praised his team and volunteers: “As we open the doors to this new St Albans shop, I am immensely proud and grateful. The dedication and hard work of our team have turned a vision into reality in just seven days, showcasing what we can achieve together. We look forward to serving the community, offering quality items and providing crucial support.”

Mark O’Connell, Head of Property, agreed and also acknowledged the important role his team played: “The St Alban’s store provides a spacious 450 square meter shopping experience for our customers. This milestone and bringing this project to life, is also a testament to the dedication of our property team. It’s an example of what we can accomplish together, and we are confident that this new store will be a favourite destination for shoppers in the community.”

A call to shop

The opening of the new Vinnies in St Albans is more than just a new retail space. It symbolises hope, resilience, and community support. As Kyama Fraser encouraged every attendee: "Shop, shop, shop!"

The community is invited to support the new shop, whether through shopping, volunteering, or spreading the word. The new Vinnies Shop promises to be a vital resource for everyone, continuing the good works of the St Vincent de Paul Society Victoria.

Volunteers are always welcome   REGISTER