4-6 Craigan Street, Strathpine QLD

Owners:

Rod Hall is co-owner/operator of Friendly Grocer Strathpine. With a significant background in the floorcoverings industry spanning most of his life, Rod embarked on a new venture over seven years ago when he joined forces with his son-in-law in the Convenience and Grocery Industry. His sense of pride stems from the emphasis placed on customer service within the business. Drawing inspiration from treating all individuals and customers as though they were his own family, Rod believes in the immeasurable value and rewards that such an approach brings.

Brad Bateman is the also the co-owner/operator of Friendly Grocer Strathpine, a cherished family enterprise.  Brad’s journey commenced at the age of 14, starting his retail career working for BI-LO Supermarkets. Over nine years journey, Brad ascended through the ranks, progressing into management roles. His professional path subsequently led him to Whites IGA Group, where he helmed the role of Store Manager for a span of two years. A relocation to Brisbane saw him assuming pivotal positions as Assistant Store Manager and later, Store Manager, at Drake Supermarkets, over a five-year period. Transitioning into a Retail Consultant Role at the Friendly Grocer head office marked a significant juncture, ultimately culminating in the purchase of a Convenience store in conjunction with his father-in-law, Rod.

By harnessing his extensive experience, as well as that of his father-in-law, Brad orchestrated the growth of their enterprise, centered around core principles, prominently featuring the delivery of outstanding customer service.

Distinctive Features:

Rod and Brad have been firmly committed over the last seven years to improving and diversifying their customer’s experience at their store. This commitment led them to looking at different ways to make each visit a source of joy. Introducing lines of New Zealand products, including their locally made renowned New Zealand Lolly Cake and ice creams variety, to offering popular American products such as Takis.

Strathpine Friendly Grocer’s enduring success is anchored in the loyalty and dedication of its longstanding staff, many of whom have been with the business since the first day.  The profound emphasis on family values resonates deeply, making it one of the most valuable assets for their customers.

Collaborating with his son-in-law Brad, whose wealth of experience and knowledge in the industry complements Rod’s extensive expertise in Sales and Marketing, they have seamlessly created a unique and rewarding work environment. The journey, while not without challenges, is one they wholeheartedly embrace and cherish. Moreover, Strathpine Friendly Grocer stands out as a comprehensive one-stop-shop, catering to diverse needs by providing services such as Blueshift, Ladbrokes, and Parcel Pick Up. This multifaceted approach has been instrumental in attracting and retaining a diverse customer range.

A recent crowning achievement that Rod and Brad proudly share is the distinction of Strathpine Friendly Grocer winning the prestigious title of “Queensland Convenience Store of the Year” a the 2023 NLNA Industry Awards, a testament to their unwavering dedication and excellence.

Community

Both Rod and Brad hold the Strathpine Community in high esteem, deeply appreciating the robust support extended to local businesses by the community. Witnessing the evolution of the younger generation into upstanding community members stands as a source of profound satisfaction.

Reflecting their commitment to community welfare, Rod and Brad have been devoted supporters of the Daniel Morcombe Foundation for many years. A fortuitous visit from Denise and Bruce Morcombe to their shop underscored their dedication to child safety education.

Inspirational  Wisdom

A guiding principle that resonates deeply with them is treat all people like you want to be treated, a philosophy that transcends both professional and personal realms. Likewise, Brad draws inspiration from the wisdom that embarking on a new journey need not entail starting from scratch; rather, one embarks armed with the invaluable asset of experience.

“Don’t be afraid to start over again. This time you’re not starting from scratch you’re starting with experience.” 

7 Bellevue Avenue, Highton VIC 3216

Owners

John Adams has a deep connection to the Highton area, having grown up there. His journey in the news industry began at a young age, starting his first job at 11 years old as a newspaper delivery boy for Highton Newsagency. Over the years, he took on various responsibilities within the newsagency, including wrapping newspapers and managing the early morning newspaper distribution. In 2017, John expanded his professional horizons and became a Mortgage Broker while still maintaining his involvement with the newsagency. In 2022, an exciting opportunity presented itself when John and his wife Tracey took over the ownership of Highton Newsagency.

Tracey Adams is an integral part of Highton Newsagency. Initially joining the newsagency to assist the previous owners, Tracey’s dedication, extensive customer service experience, management skills, and strong work ethic played a significant role in improving the business. With four children of her own, Tracey has a keen understanding of what customers, especially children, desire. Her focus on creating a fresh and inviting store environment, along with carefully curated new stock, has garnered praise from customers. 

Community
Highton Newsagency stands out as a pillar of the Highton Village community, thanks to John’s long-standing presence in the area and the loyalty of many customers. While embracing modern changes, the newsagency retains its traditional charm, offering a diverse range of products. The store features a great selection of greeting cards, stationery, magazines, kids’ toys, books, collectibles, adult giftware, and quality chocolates. The store’s commitment to quality products and exceptional customer service has earned them a strong reputation in the community.

Highton Newsagency actively supports the local community through various sponsorships and donations. As proud sponsors of the Highton Bowls Club, the newsagency strengthens its ties with the club’s members, many of whom are also loyal customers. Additionally, Highton Newsagency contributes to local kindergartens, schools, and clubs by donating items for fundraising activities, showcasing their dedication to the community’s growth and well-being.

Advice

The best piece of advice that John and Tracey received and follow diligently is to treat everyone with respect and be as helpful as possible. This approach not only creates a positive environment within the newsagency but also fosters strong relationships with customers, ultimately contributing to the store’s success.

With John and Tracey’s combined experience, dedication, and focus on exceptional customer service, Highton Newsagency continues to thrive as a beloved community establishment, meeting the diverse needs of its loyal customers while contributing to the growth and vibrancy of the Highton community.

46 Railway Rd, Elmore VIC 3558

Owners:
Meet Greg and Diane Chandler, a dynamic duo with a passion for sports and community service. They have spent over 30 years as beloved members of the Elmore community, where they own and operate the local Newsagency.

Greg and Diane Chandler grew up in North East Victoria and have been inseparable partners in both life and sports. They share a love for activities like tennis, golf, and lawn bowls, which have brought them closer together over the years.

Their extensive expertise has allowed them to serve their local community effectively, making them a reliable source for news and daily essentials.

Elmore Journey:
In 1995, Greg and Diane moved to Elmore along with their daughter. They took the bold step of building their own newsagency, driven by their commitment to providing exceptional service to the growing community. The strategic location of their shop on the main thoroughfare between Bendigo and Echuca has attracted a diverse customer base, ranging from locals to passing travellers.

Diane and Greg Chandler at their daughter’s wedding.

Contributions to the Community:
Having lived in Elmore for nearly three decades, Greg and Diane have become integral members of the community. Their personal touch goes beyond the realm of their newsagency. They are known for their kindness and willingness to help, whether it’s assisting an elderly customer with phone issues or offering directions to those in need.

Diane actively volunteers her time and skills in accounts and auditing with local sporting clubs, demonstrating her commitment to giving back to the community that has supported them throughout the years.

Elmore’s strong sense of community was evident during the October 2022 floods when locals rallied together to support each other. The community joining hands with their fellow residents to organise and distribute sandbags to protect the area during the crisis.

Words of Wisdom:
One of the valuable pieces of advice that have shaped their success is to avoid judging people and to genuinely listen to what they have to say. By implementing this philosophy, Greg and Diane have managed to grow their business and retain loyal customers, making everyone feel welcome and valued. Their dedication to providing excellent service and personal attention to every individual who walks through their doors has fostered a sense of trust and loyalty among the community.

Greg and Diane Chandler’s story exemplifies the power of community support, kindness, and dedication to fostering strong relationships. As active and caring members of Elmore, they continue to play a vital role in shaping the town’s spirit and character. Whether you need the latest news or a friendly chat, you can count on the Chandlers to be there for you, just as they have been for the past 30 years.

Therese and Jessika Wolfenden

287-295 King Street, Caboolture QLD

Owner:
Jessika is the proud owner of Kings Circle Newsagency.  Jessika embarked on her journey in the industry almost 10 years ago, driven by the challenges of finding employment after graduating, due to her uncontrolled epilepsy. Seeking more flexibility and freedom, she ventured into entrepreneurship and discovered the appeal of owning her own newsagency. The excitement and dreams that come with selling lottery tickets to customers motivated her to take on this venture.

Jessika also has a love for horses, which brings her immense joy, and spending time in the saddle is her ultimate passion. With a deep affection for her family and friends, Jessika values the moments shared with her loved ones.

Success:
What sets Kings Circle Newsagency apart is its strong focus on family values. Customers who walk into the shop become a part of the extended family, and Jessika places a high priority on providing exceptional customer service. The ‘Instant Scratch It’ gifting option is a major hit all year round, attracting customers from various locations. 

A remarkable achievement for Jessika’s store was winning the NLNA Golden Casket 2023 award, a recognition of the hard work and dedication of her team. To Jessika, a successful store means catering to the needs of both customers and staff, while collaborating effectively with suppliers to deliver the best products and services.

Community:
In the vibrant community of Caboolture, Jessika cherishes the stories and involvement of the older generation, including her own grandparents, who have been an integral part of the community for over 70 years. Supporting local charities and clubs holds a special place in Jessika’s heart, as she finds immense satisfaction in giving back to her community.

Advice:
One piece of advice Jessika holds dear, is to never stop asking questions and to embrace a continuous learning mindset. Armed with knowledge, she strives to better serve her customers and staff, always opting for honesty and transparency. For Jessika, a lottery ticket may get customers into the shop, but it’s her team’s commitment to providing an unforgettable experience that makes them keep coming back.

With her mum, Therese, as her partner, Jessika is excited about the upcoming opening of their new store, Bellmere Lotto and Gifts. They eagerly anticipate creating another successful business and becoming even more integrated into their local community. The grand opening is set for 9 August 2023, and they extend a warm welcome to all their supporters. 

MEMBER PROFILE BIRCHIP NEWSAGENCY

53 Cumming Ave, Birchip VIC 3483

Owner
Jim Varghese has been successfully operating Birchip Newsagency since May 2010. With a strong commitment to the local community, he has built a reputation for providing excellent support and sponsorship to numerous local community groups, sporting organisations, and town events.

Jim believes in creating a friendly atmosphere within the store, ensuring that every customer feels welcomed and valued. He is dedicated to delivering the best possible service to the community, consistently meeting customer expectations by providing responsive products and services that cater to market demands.

Team Effort
Rachel Colbert, a highly valued member of the team, plays an integral role in the success of Birchip Newsagency. With almost a decade of dedicated service, her commitment and friendly presence creates a welcoming atmosphere that resonates with every customer who walks through the doors. Rachel’s versatility shines as she takes on a multitude of responsibilities, including customer service, stock ordering, returns, and training new staff.

Recognised as a team player, Rachel not only works independently but goes above and beyond her assigned duties. Her creativity and innovative thinking consistently yields great ideas to attract customers, such as implementing effective merchandising techniques and regularly rearranging stock. Customers and representatives alike have taken notice of Rachel’s pleasant nature and willingness to lend a helping hand, often commending her for the exceptional service she provides.

Birchip Newsagency prides itself on its well-organised store layout, categorising products and collections for easy access. The front half of the store and the front windows are utilised to prominently display seasonal products, catching the attention of passersby. The staff members, who are well presented and professional, contribute to the welcoming environment within the store.

Recognising the importance of digital engagement, Birchip Newsagency maintains an active presence on social media platforms such as Facebook. This allows the store to connect with customers online, share updates, and engage in community discussions. Additionally, the newsagency has a comprehensive Google business listing, providing potential customers with accurate and detailed information about the store.

By leveraging Jim’s leadership, dedication, and community-oriented approach, Birchip Newsagency continues to be a trusted and valued establishment within the local area.

MEMBER PROFILE ANGLESEA NEWS & LOTTO

Address
Anglesea Shopping Village, Shop 19/89 Great Ocean Rd, Anglesea VIC 

Owners
Paul and Corinne Nigro have been involved in the newsagency and lotto industry for a combined total of 18 years. Their journey began in 2000 when they became the youngest couple to purchase an authorised newsagency, Macedon Square Newsagency, located in Lower Templestowe. After five successful years, they made a sea-change and acquired Torquay Lotto & Gifts. However, their ultimate dream was realised when they purchased Anglesea News & Lotto, located in Paul’s childhood holiday destination on the Great Ocean Road. They have owned and operated Anglesea News & Lotto for almost eight years and have found immense joy and fulfillment in their business.

Local community
Paul and Corinne are passionate about immersing themselves in the local community. Paul serves as the Senior Coach and Director of Football for the Anglesea Kangaroos Football Club, while also holding a directorship position on the Bendigo Community Bank Surf Coast. Corinne contributes her time and efforts as Vice-President of Business Anglesea, a local trader group. Additionally, she organises fundraising events and luncheons at the Anglesea Football & Netball Club. Their involvement in the community not only brings them energy but also fills them with pride.

Paul and Corinne attribute their success to the strong relationships they have fostered with their staff, customers, and suppliers. Their active participation in the local community has played a crucial role in their achievements. Throughout the years, they have learned to adapt and overcome challenges, with the most significant being the impact of COVID-19. Despite the difficulties, they remained open as an essential service and collaborated with the local business community to offer collective services during lockdowns. Corinne’s initiative in creating the ‘Anglesea Shop Local’ Facebook page helped highlight local businesses and kept the community informed. The ability to adapt and work closely with the community has proven instrumental in their success.

One stop shop
Anglesea News & Lotto stands out due to its active involvement and connection with the local community. Paul and Corinne take pride in their store’s stock and displays, particularly the full range of magazines they offer. They also take delight in providing a varied selection of locally made gifts, cards, souvenirs, and destination candles, which are highly sought after. The store offers products that are not easily found in town, such as children’s toys, games, fishing gear, basic electronics, beach gear, and more. This makes Anglesea News & Lotto a convenient “one-stop-shop” for locals and visitors alike.

Anglesea is a remarkable community that Paul and Corinne hold dear. Despite its small population, the support and camaraderie within the community are unparalleled. As a holiday destination, Anglesea experiences a significant influx of visitors during summer and school holidays, and Paul and Corinne ensure they cater to both the permanent residents and the transient community. They take pride in making everyone feel welcome and at home in Anglesea.

Advice
The best piece of advice Paul and Corinne have received is to love what you do and do what you love. This philosophy has been the driving force behind their dedication, passion, and commitment to their newsagency business and the local community.

Paul and Corinne Nigro exemplify the spirit of community involvement, passion for their business, and dedication to providing exceptional products and services to Anglesea and its visitors. Their love for what they do shines through in their thriving news and lotto store, making Anglesea News & Lotto a true asset to the local community.