By Sarah | Project Facilitor
In February this year, Jilkminggan opened its doors on its first-ever community op-shop. Here’s a photo of Kathleen, busily making sales! Kathleen is also an artist, and is excited about using revenue from sales to purchase new sewing and art supplies.
Behind the scenes, ELP and the women of Jilkminggan had been working with great enthusiasm to prepare for the opening. As boxes of donated clothing arrived, everyone pitched in to unpack and sort them. To help with pricing, we had researched what clothes usually sell for in Katherine, whilst the women input their knowledge of the local market. As we yarned, we had the chance to talk about retail and small business skills, and how the op-shop could work to best support the needs of the community. A few people wandered into the art centre early, wanting to buy clothes. It got quite busy, but was a good opportunity for people to practice taking sales, and problem-solve issues together.
Jocelyn reminded everyone that if they worked together and maintained energy for the op-shop, the art centre could steadily move forward and achieve its dreams. Also, it didn’t matter if the op-shop sold out of clothes quickly, as there would be plenty more to replace them!
On the day of the opening, residents, local staff and media all flocked to check out the wares. It was really wonderful to see support from the whole community! Staff from the health centre, the council office and sports and recreation program had heard about the shop and came to visit. Customers offered ideas about what other things they would like to buy at the op-shop, and some people offered support in transporting items from town.
Virginia said, “This is our first time [to have a clothes shop in Jilkminggan] and we are excited. We only go shopping when we get lucky, like when family give us a car.
“Everybody is proud of this community, especially for the shop that just opened”
Proceeds from the op-shop enabled women to attend a nearby arts festival at Barunga, where they had a stall selling artworks and clothes. It was also a great opportunity to meet other entrepreneurs and gather new ideas! Both ELP and the women of Jilkminggan are excited about working together on the next steps to help the enterprise grow. You’re your contribution, we are able to provide access to further training, sewing equipment, and mentorship – gifts that the whole community will benefit from.
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