Discover Anglicare Op Shops
Samara Linehan, lover of op shops, is a freelance writer. As a follower of Christ, she loves working with organisations like Anglicare and dreams of a more just world. She lives in Newcastle with her husband, Dave, and their dogs.
Her mission should she choose to accept it: find quality second-hand clothing.
I love op shopping.
It's the thrill of the chase; the joy of the hunt. It's the happy hours spent sifting through rack after rack of clothing and accessories, before finally unearthing that one-of-a-kind treasure - tucked away, patiently waiting for me all along.
Needless to say, when Anglicare asked me to research and write this piece, there was zero arm twisting required! And although it involved a trek down the M1 to visit the Hornsby Anglicare Op Shop on a Saturday (I live in Newcastle), I jumped at the opportunity.
Like i said, i really love op shopping.
Situated in Florence Street Mall, the storefront is unassuming. I arrived later than planned and flustered. But when i open the door and step inside, my stress drains away. I've arrived in the promised land.
I'm greeted by a space that's bursting with luxuriously thick knits, buttery soft leathers, and the odd vintage number, so glorious in its garishness, that i want nothing more but to try it on - here and now.
Hornsby Anglicare Op Shop is a veritable cornucopia of recycled clothing… and today, it’s mine to discover!
The atmosphere is buzzing.
It’s clear that my fellow shoppers are in their element. There’s happy chatter as they work their way through the racks of good quality, second-hand clothes. Woman, man or child. Plus-sized (guilty!) or tiny. Vintage or designer. No matter the person, no matter their taste, it’s clear that there’s something here for everyone.
But why take my word for it? Here’s a small sample of the things I found waiting for me at the Hornsby Anglicare Op Shop when I visited. Stock changes all the time, so I can’t guarantee they’re still available, but they’ll give you an idea of what’s waiting for you at your nearest Anglicare Op Shop.
Check out this amazing, cropped Biker jacket from DECJUBA. Perfect for those chilly winter months and only $24!
This stylish printed shirt from MAKROM strikes my husband’s fancy, but alas! It’s size small (and he is not). Just $10… talk about affordable prices!
I ‘spot’ this dress and it conjures images of autumn picnics under delicate rays of sunlight. This glorious number a steal at $10.
Heartbreak strikes! This crimson velvet skirt is far too small for me. At only $18 it would have been worth every cent!
This girls’ denim onsie is too cute for words! From Bardot Kids a real bargain for only $8.
Then, just when I think it can’t possibly get any greater than this, one of the friendly assistants shows me to a rack where everything costs $1! Better still, she tells me that it’s re-stocked with good quality items every week!
So, if you’re lucky enough to live within striking distance of an Anglicare Op Shop (or even if you’re not!) I’d highly recommend you plan a visit sometime soon. There are 25 locations across Sydney and Illawarra. Find a nearby Anglicare Op Shop, you won’t be disappointed!
You’re sure to find quality items you’ll love at an extremely reasonable price. And remember, when you shop at an Anglicare Op Shop, you’re helping out your community and the planet, too.
What’s not to love?
Inspired by the gospel of reconciliation in Jesus Christ, Anglicare's vision for reconciliation is a nation in which Australia's First Peoples are restored in dignity, respect, empowerment and opportunity.