Mount Waverley - one of BSL’s oldest Op Shops

BSL stores – also known as Op Shops - are an important part of their local community.

There are currently 23 community stores in BSL’s Social Enterprises network. Located conveniently throughout Melbourne and Greater Geelong, our stores offer a huge variety of high-quality unique items and everyday household essentials. From clothing and accessories to furniture and collectables, there is always something interesting to be found. Buying second hand extends the life of goods and the profits from purchases help fund a range of life-changing community programs. As well as raising much needed funds, our op shops help job seekers develop their workplace skills and provide work experience to students.

The story of the Mt Waverley Brotherhood Store began 54 years ago, in April 1969. Store Volunteer Lyn Donald recounts the journey:

“At the beginning, an Auxiliary was formed to support the Brotherhood through fundraising. A committee of four commenced raising money through theatre nights, casserole luncheons, garden parties and many other ways. Some years later, a suggestion was made to purchase a vacant shop at 11 Hamilton Walk, Mt Waverley. The idea of running a what was then a recent idea – ‘An Op Shop’ - caused a lot of agonising amongst the members, but they were encouraged by Thelma Tuxen to consider this. It may never have happened if the proprietor of an about-to-be-demolished service station hadn’t offered the cleaned-out premises so a trial could be undertaken.

With a truckload of donations from The Brotherhood and support from St Stephen’s Anglican Parish, trading began, and the income caused so much amazement and joy that the offer of the shop was eagerly accepted. A 30-year loan was instigated, and the Auxiliary paid the monthly re-payment amount, along with an amount to cover maintenance and costs. Thirty years later the loan was re-paid, and the Auxiliary continued to pay a monthly contribution to cover maintenance etc and the shop remained a feature of the Mt Waverley ‘shopscape’ as it is today, under the trees.”

BSL stores provide quality products at fair and affordable prices for a wide range of community members. Volunteers Ann, Lyn, Marie, Dianne, and Thelma are particularly proud that the store is a place where all customers feel welcome, no matter whether they come in to purchase items, or come for a chat and some company. As Ann notes: “The store is a joyful connection to our local community.”

The store has been supported by countless dedicated and passionate volunteers serving the store and the local community for decades. They are a conduit to their communities, opening doors for greater unity, connection, and impact, and are integral advocates for BSL’s mission to alleviate and eradicate poverty. Today, BSL partners with more than 1,000 volunteers who contribute in many ways. We are grateful for the time, skills, and experience that our volunteers bring to BSL, and for their passion and advocacy supporting our shared vision.

To anyone considering volunteering at a BSL Store, Thelma says: “You will be helping a good cause and will meet interesting people.”

Would you like to become a volunteer? We’re looking for more wonderful people, like Thelma, to join our team. Learn more about volunteering at BSL here .