The RangeCare Op Shop in Mapleton buzzed with activity and community spirit on Wednesday, April 9th, as it celebrated a highly successful Open Day. The event, held at its location within the historic Old School House (TOSH) at 17 Obi Obi Road, drew a significant number of local residents eager to explore the newly refreshed space and support a vital community service.
Toni Hinton, Marketing Officer for RangeCare, expressed her enthusiasm about the day’s outcome. “We were thrilled with the turnout at last week’s Open Day, and it is great to hear it was so well received in the community,” she said. The positive feedback from attendees, many of whom commented on the more inviting atmosphere of the refurbished shop, underscores the Op Shop’s growing importance to Mapleton.
Established in 2018, the RangeCare Op Shop has become a community fixture, offering a diverse and ever-changing array of pre-loved clothing, accessories, homewares, and unique trinkets. Recent updates have further enhanced the shopping experience, creating a treasure trove of finds for discerning residents.
The Open Day itself was a vibrant affair, with RangeCare offering free coffee and a sausage sizzle, fostering a welcoming and convivial atmosphere. Shoppers who made a purchase on the day were also entered into a raffle to win one of three generously donated prizes, adding an extra element of excitement to the event. RangeCare confirmed the Open Day’s success was unprecedented, with the shop recording its highest sales to date.
The success of the RangeCare Op Shop is deeply intertwined with its mission to reinvest all proceeds back into the local community. Funds raised through the sale of donated goods directly support RangeCare’s crucial work in providing quality care and support to residents, enabling them to maintain their independence and remain in their own homes for longer. This direct link between community donations, volunteer efforts, and local care services resonates strongly with the wider Range community.
The day-to-day operations of the Op Shop are powered by the invaluable contributions of approximately 20 dedicated local volunteers. Bec Harper, RangeCare’s Volunteer Coordinator, emphasised their critical role, stating, “The RangeCare OP Shop Volunteers are incredibly important and valued. Without them, there wouldn’t be an Op Shop. They work with such a compassionate and friendly manner, greeting and serving customers, knowing that the work they are doing is truly making a difference in our community.” Their friendly service and commitment create a welcoming environment for all who visit.
The Op Shop’s location within the Old School House adds a unique layer of historical significance and charm. This iconic building, originally built in 1916 as the Head Teacher’s residence, was saved from demolition and relocated to its current site in 1997 thanks to strong community advocacy. Since 1987, the Mapleton & District Community Association (MADCA) has leased the building, and over the years, TOSH has served various community purposes before becoming the home of the RangeCare Op Shop.
The RangeCare Op Shop relies on the generosity of the community for its stock. Donations of quality pre-loved clothing, shoes, bric-a-brac, household items, small furniture, and children’s toys are gratefully accepted at the shop, located at The Old School House, 17 Obi Obi Road, Mapleton.
For those interested in contributing to this important community service, RangeCare is always seeking new volunteers. Individuals interested in volunteering at the Op Shop or exploring other opportunities are encouraged to contact RangeCare at 07 5445 7044 or visit www.rangecare.com.au/volunteer.
The RangeCare Op Shop continues to be a vibrant hub for the Mapleton community, not only offering affordable and sustainable shopping options but also playing a crucial role in supporting local care services and fostering a strong sense of community spirit.
Disclaimer: This article is for information purposes only.