Op shop to be sold to raise extra funds

Mawarra Centre in Warragul has announced the sale of its Opportunity Shop building in Palmerston St but is assuring the community it will be business as usual.

The Mawarra Op Shop has been part of the Warragul community since 1960 and has been operating in the current building since 1967.

Mawarra chief executive officer Gordon Jamieson said “the Opportunity Shop is an integral part of Mawarra’s business and although we are selling the building, we will continue to operate at the current site as we will be selling on a lease back basis; so it will be business as usual.”

Mr Jamieson said introduction of the NDIS had changed the way in which organisations such as Mawarra are funded for the support services delivered to its many clients.

“The sale of the building will provide a cash injection and enable Mawarra to reinvest in services and provide more choices for people with a disability,” he said.

Mr Jamieson said “we know the special place the Op Shop has in the hearts of the local community, including those who were involved with the Apex Club in building this shop and we are very grateful for the patronage that enables us to further support people with disabilities.”

The sorting centre continues to grow, complementing the retail outlet in the Warragul CBD and both retail spaces now play a vital role in fulfilling Mawarra’s mission of providing choices for people with disabilities.

“The continued generosity of the local community in supporting Mawarra by donations to, or purchasing from, both the Op Shop and sorting centre, directly results in better facilities for the people we support,” Mr Jamieson said.

The building at 40 Palmerston St will be auctioned on Friday, February 22.