News

Op Shop shuts after 33 years

IT’S been part of the community for the last 33 years but BEHHA Op Shop will close it doors at the end of June after the lease was terminated on their Revesby premises and no suitable alternative was found to move into without cost.

Named after the Bankstown East Hills Handicapped Association which was formed in 1977 to provide support services to those with disabilities, including four homes which remain viable due to NDIS funding, the Op Shop is conducting a ‘mega’ sale of items including clothing, books, kitchen items, bric-a-brac and more until June 28 with all encouraged to pop in and grab a bargain.
BEHHA President Bethany Flannery said the committee spent six months investigating alternative sites.
“Unfortunately, in consultation with our solicitors, Bankstown council and building contractors, the cost of relocation, fit out, increased rent and predicted Op Shop takings would not cover this option,” she said.
“We understand this will be met with sadness by our many loyal Op Shop volunteers, donors and shoppers and hope they will understand we have done everything possible to preserve this shop and thank them for their efforts.”
Bethany said the BEHHA community would be challenged financially by the closure and any donations would be very welcome.
“To our volunteers we hope this is not goodbye but a challenge to see how we can continue to engage your skills in other future BEHHA projects,” she said.
To make a donation or find out more: behhaa.org.au