Thriving op shop welcomes change

It has been a typically busy period for the Mangawhai Opportunity Factory over the last couple of months with some well-loved members leaving and recent replacements welcomed.

Factory manager Lyndsey sold her home late last year to make the shift to another coastal location. Lyndsey was farewelled at the annual Christmas get-together. Co-manager Leah has also made the decision to head down a new path.

Mandy Hebben has recently been welcomed as the new full-time manager. Mandy and her husband Clive are new to the area and keen to get to know the community. Also on board are shop floor supervisors Vicki Cagan and Deb Doehn, who will work alongside current shop floor supervisor Clara, along with an energetic group of volunteers who keep the place running.

With the New Year the team put in some extra time and energy to refresh the Factory and the new layout is proving very popular.

It is farewell also to Roger Hill who has played a critical part in setting up the initial processes for the Trust along with chairing the board.

But the Factory has been left in good stead, with the Mangawhai Community Opportunity Shop Trust (MCOST) having given back just over $200,000 to a range of local community not-for-profit groups in its first two years.

The current board of trustees is made up of Margie Murray, Reade Murray, Dianne Christensen, David McLeish, Peggyann Colville and Sue Clayton, welcoming in Vern Dark as the new Chair.

Promotion of the next round of grant applications is coming up in the next month. If your community group needs assistance, or if you are looking for great buys then follow Mangawhai Opportunity Factory on Facebook for weekly highlights or pop into the shop at 5 Wood Street, Mangawhai, open 7 days a week.

n Good quality items are always welcome. Mandy and Vicki say please bring in your goods and say hello at the same time. If you are unsure if your items are suitable, give the Factory a call first on 431 3098.

Departing manager Lyndsey was recently farewelled as she will move out of town.