Russell and Casey Brownlie are the new owners of Bairnsdale’s longest running bike shop – Giant Bairnsdale, at 193 Main Street.
Russell has been working at Giant Bairnsdale since moving back to the area in 2017.
“Having worked in the bike industry for 25+ years it felt like a natural progression for us to take over the shop when the opportunity arose,” explains Russell, who was employed by Ivanhoe Cycles in Melbourne for the 12 years prior.
Jay Symons has been working at Giant Bairnsdale for more than 12 years, and will also be staying on in the business as a bike mechanic.
“Jay and I both have a long-standing passion for riding; we have local knowledge with 37+ years of combined expert knowledge about the bike industry, repairs, and associated products/accessories,” Russell said.
“Our kids – Fletcher (aged 13 years) and Talitha (aged 10) – are really excited, and we look forward to involving them in this family-run business” said Casey, who will predominately focus on the administrative and behind-the-scenes aspects of the business.
The shop is an exclusive Giant retailer (stocking Giant, Liv and Momentum bikes from the Giant Group brands), and it’s the only local Giant distributor within 110km.
“We’ll continue to sell and repair eBikes, mountain bikes, kids bikes and road bikes,” Russell said. “And we’ll also continue to sell cycling-related accessories including helmets and clothing.”
The Giant brand of bike has a global reputation for its excellent features, design and value for money, including being named ‘Best Bicycle Brand’ in 2023 in the Finder Retail Awards.
Giant Bairnsdale caters to the needs of potential and current cyclists of all ages and abilities, from beginners and social/recreational riders, all the way through to competitive and elite riders.
“Our long-term goal is to support and grow the bike riding community in East Gippsland by providing high-quality service, products, advice and support.
“We also hope to support the physical and mental health of East Gippslanders by promoting and encouraging a healthy and active lifestyle that includes cycling,” Russell said.
Former owners, Gary and Lisa Jackson, who established the shop in 1995, sold the shop to the Brownlies so they can enjoy some travelling.
The Jacksons extend heartfelt thanks to the customers who have supported the store for many years.
“We are very happy and confident that the store will thrive under its new owners, Casey and Russell,” Gary said.
“Customers will be pleased to see the familiar faces and the continuation of the same great service that the store is renowned for.”
“We have learned so much from Gary and Lisa, and appreciate the extra support they have provided during the handover period. We wish them all the best, and are excited to further build on the success they have achieved over the past 30 years,” Russell and Casey said.
Giant Bairnsdale is open from 9am to 5.30pm on Mondays to Fridays.
To stay updated about the exciting changes, celebrations and news as they occur, follow Giant Bairnsdale on Facebook and Instagram.
