A new op shop has taken a community-centred approach.
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The Cobargo Op Shop opened its doors two weeks ago and since then has become very popular in the town, according to team leader Dave Rugendyke.
“I think we are a bit gobsmacked at how well it has taken off,” he said.
“People drop in to say g’day as much as anything.”
The op shop is part of newly initiated Cobargo Undertakings, and funds raised go towards that organisation as well as Friends of Cobargo Cemetery.
“It was an opportunity for a fundraiser, and as we didn’t have an op shop in town,” shop treasurer Beth Dogan said.
“As workers we are very happy with how it has gone.
“The community here have been very receptive.”
Everything in the shop is donated by people from the area and includes items for bathrooms and kitchens, books, clothes, CDs, kid’s toys and more.
They also sell furniture; however as there is not enough space for everything at the shop photos of the furniture are taken and displayed and the items themselves kept elsewhere.
Shop attendants can also help kids with their CV and coach them on getting a new job.
Ms Dogan said the op shop is calling for more volunteers to extend opening hours.
“We’d like to be open every day,” she said.
If you are interested in volunteering, contact Ms Dogan on 0428 696 623 or Melissa Britton on 0401 671 412.
The op shop is open Tuesday, Wednesday and Friday 10am-3pm and on Saturday from 9.30am-12pm.
It will hold a garage sale on Saturday selling their furniture on Cobargo-Bermagui Rd, Cobargo from 9.30am-12pm.
The shop is located at 47 Prince’s Hwy, Cobargo, next to the Top Shop Supermarket.
What is Cobargo Undertakings?
It's a not-for-profit organisation which started with the Macabre Box Exhibition in June.
It raises funds for affordable coffins to have on hand, performs funeral services for a donation and assists people with purchasing plaques or a cross.
It has also run a suicide prevention seminar and a Dying to Know Day, which provided information people need before they pass on.
Cobargo Undertakings also assists people with forms such as ones for court, CVs and understanding documents.
Treasurer Beth Dogan said they had recently run their first not-for-profit funeral, which ended up costing the family $700 and who were very appreciative.
“We’re not out to do a funeral home as a business, we are out to give people a choice,” she said.
