A backyard shed has been transformed into an op-shop to support the Solaris Cancer Care centre in Bunbury. The new shop, located behind the centre, sells pre-loved top-end items for $10 or less, with proceeds helping to fund the centre's operations.
Southwest Cancer Support Coordinator Hayley Tuck said the idea arose from the need to generate revenue, as the centre is about 96 per cent community-dependent and receives no government funding. “We knew we could not compete with the big op shops with more space or products, so we decided to only sell very top-end products for $10 or less,” she said.
Around 30 people, including members of the Lechenault Men’s Shed and Dardanup Lions, worked on the project. Companies such as AqWest, Tronox, Southern Ports, and Solaris volunteers also contributed. The shed was renovated with new racking and donations of quality clothing.
The shop initially opened last year but closed temporarily due to heat issues from lack of insulation. David Wells from Dardanup Lions helped solve the problem. Volunteer team leader Carol Attard said it was “wonderful” to see everyone pitch in, noting that the shop has also assisted the homeless and domestic violence victims.
The op shop will be open weekdays from 10am to 2pm starting in February.
