The Opportunity Shop at 444 Racecourse Road in Flemington was opened by then District Governor Colin Muir on 5th May 2010.
The premise was to provide an opportunity for the residents of a predominantly low socio economic demographic access to household goods at a low cost. The shop soon came to be a port of call for the many young people moving into the area, racegoers needing a hat or a tie, people looking for second hand toys and books. Bric-a-brac soon became a big market and soon we were being asked for furniture and more.
Latterly, the store became a hub of the circular economy with a focus on reuse, repurpose, repair, upcycle, recycle and rehome.
With Rotary adopting the environment as a focus, the recycle element became crucial especially for the younger residents.
Connections with Donations in Kind, Western Emegency Reliev Network, then Inner Melbourne Emergency Reliief Network, Bolton Clark's homeless program, Jobs Victoria and Youth Services all grew.
The shop has also become the face of Rotary in the community and welcomes enquiries from all about volunteering, work experience, donating goods and Rotary specifically.
The shop is managed by Melina Caccetta, a Kensington resident supported by a team of volunteers and Rotarians Tuesday to Saturday..
In 2018, the store received Services Australia approval to provide Centrelink beneficiaries with volunteer hours.