The Lakes Entrance Volunteer Craft Group has announced that 2026 will be the final year they open their craft shop to sell their handmade wares.
The group was formed in 2010 by Merilyn Beechey, who invited a few local women to her home to make doorstops around the dining table. These items were sold at markets, with the proceeds donated to the Cancer Group.
Following the markets, the group secured an empty shop on the Esplanade from Pat and Tina Paganella, where members produced a variety of craft goods. Over the years, the group moved between several modestly rented or generously donated spaces, including shops owned by Anette Brown and, most recently, the Lakes Sports and Community Club.
“For the past three years, we have been fortunate to use the shop provided by the Lakes Sports and Community Club,” Craft Group president Rosemary Kavadis said.
“They have been kind enough to provide the space gratis. We are very grateful for their generosity and kindness. Without these very generous people, we would not have been able to raise the funds we have and distribute them back into our community.”
Over the years, the group has donated to local organisations including Fire Brigades, Ambulance, Neighbourhood House, Men’s Shed, Lakes Entrance History Centre, Palliative Care, Lakes Entrance Coast Guard, Gumnuts, Lakes Entrance Primary and Secondary Schools, the Christmas Decorating Group, and many others.
“So many people have helped us along the way, including John and Yvonne Hardy, who for many years have kept us supplied with delicious jams, conserves, and more, which have been a big hit,” Rosemary said.
“There have been so many kind and generous people who have donated finished items for us to sell in the shop.”
As the group closes the shop, they extend a heartfelt thank you to the community for supporting them and giving members the joy of making, selling, and giving back.
“We will continue as a craft and social group, and if there is a need in our community that we can help with, we will,” Rosemary said.
