Beloved Trinity Op Shop To Close Amid Community Outrage

Mackay’s beloved Trinity Op Shop has been dealt a heartbreaking blow, with the community reeling over news of its impending closure. The op shop, which has been a cherished part of the city for over 20 years, has been ordered to vacate its premises at 39 Gordon Street by April 12, 2025, after The Corporation of The Diocesan Synod of North Queensland allegedly declined to renew its lease.

The announcement, made by Trinity Heritage Mackay Inc., came as a shock to donors, shoppers, and volunteers who have long supported the shop’s efforts to maintain the heritage-listed Holy Trinity Precinct. In a letter addressed to its supporters, the op shop’s management committee expressed their deep disappointment.

“We have been endeavouring to renew our lease with The Diocesan Synod for some months. Unfortunately, our landlord has declined to renew our lease,” the letter stated. “Although we remain open to negotiating a new lease with our landlord, we must still move forward with plans to vacate the premises… Our last day of trading will be Monday 31 March, 2025.”

The news has sparked outrage among the community, with many expressing their sadness and frustration. Regular shopper Michael Swifte said the op shop had always been a highlight in Mackay’s struggling CBD.

“One of the best op shops I’ve ever been to. One of the best and most value-for-money book selections. The bric-a-brac section is excellent, as is the service. But it’s the location and architecture that make it stand out. With the Mackay CBD being permanently depressed, the Trinity Op Shop is a highlight for me. I’ll be very sad to see it go.”

Long-time patron Irene Brown echoed the sentiment. “Thank you to all who have worked here over the 20 years. I only took some goodies over last week. It was always magic to browse there, one always found something. So sad.”

For many, it’s not just about the closure of a shop, but the loss of a community hub that has provided affordable goods to those in need while raising funds for heritage preservation. Concerned resident Vynka Von voiced her distress, saying, “The Trinity Op Shop is closing because the Church that owns it will not renew their lease! I said, ‘What happens with all the stuff—books, clothes, housewares?’ She just said it will go in the bin! We can’t let that happen, but other than pray, I can’t do much else.”

While the future remains uncertain for Trinity Heritage Mackay Inc., the organisation assured supporters that it remains committed to its mission, stating, “We apologise for the inconvenience of this situation—we understand that it is unexpected and potentially unsettling. We will make every endeavour to keep you informed of any significant changes in our circumstances.”

As the final days of trading approach, the community is rallying together to show support, urging shoppers to visit before the doors close for good on March 31. The loss of the Trinity Op Shop is not just the end of a store—it’s the end of an era.

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