Millicent can now boast a purpose-built Op Shop on Williams Road which is an initiative of the Seventh Day Adventist Church.
A gathering of 60 volunteers, church members and well-wishers recently witnessed the official ribbon-cutting ceremony undertaken by the Mayor and Mayoress of Wattle Range Council Des and Shari Noll.
Ms Noll is also an SDA member and the Op Shop manager and she explained the two years of planning and work behind the construction of the new retail outlet.
“Our church has always had outreach and compassion for our community – even before the move from the old church in Stuckey Street to the new church here on Williams Road in 1978,” Ms Noll said.
“Initially there was a very active Dorcas Society, providing food parcels and other items of need such as clothing and blankets – due to fire, poverty or unexpected circumstances, which our Dorcas Society supplied.
“This evolved into the Op Shop, and for over 23 years it has been operating from the old school building.
“It supports our community through affordable prices, as well as raising funds for our community and sometimes further afield.
“The new Op Shop is well-lit, warm, welcoming, safe and comfortable for volunteers and customers alike.
“Our new Op Shop signage has three angels circling the world.
“This is the message from the Book of Revelation to proclaim to all peoples the everlasting gospel of God’s love in the context of the three angels’ messages.
“Our culture and values are based on the principles that Jesus gave us through His example and as written in the Holy Bible.
“Our core values drive us to give to our community – no matter their circumstances – in a meaningful, respectful way and non-judgemental way.”
Ms Noll thanked local businesses, church members and other individuals for their work on the new building and surrounds.
“And let’s not forget our Op Shop mascot, Bella the Kelpie,” she said.
The SDA Op Shop supports a range of local organisations with cash donations and goods including Newbery Park Primary School, Royal Flying Doctors Service, Boneham Aged Care Services, Gladys Smith Early Learning Centre, Foodbank and ac. care at the Millicent Community Centre.
“A huge thank you also to our customers, and those who donate good clothing and bric-a-brac for sale within our shop,” Ms Noll said.
“Your support is so appreciated and the Op Shop would not keep functioning without you.
“We are passionate about our community and their needs – and we look forward to serving you even better in the future, in our brand-new Op Shop.”
Following the speeches, a celebratory cake was cut by past managers Jeanette Grosser and Kath Nuske and then trading got under way.
