WHILE looking forward to horse riding adventures and their hobby farm, Roly and Marianne Jones will miss the interaction and banter with customers at Countrywide Clothing and Safety Supplies but are delighted the business will continue under enthusiastic new owners.
Roly admits that after being in business for 49 years, initially exclusively on the road and then for a time combining that with the Korumburra store that has been running for about 30 years, it will take time to adjust to retirement but is looking forward to sleeping in until dawn.
Old-fashioned country service, a wide selection of goods and traditional store layout have kept customers returning, one even buying up as much as she can whenever she visits the area from Wales.
There’ll be no major changes in approach, with new owners Steven and Michelle O’Neill set to make a few little tweaks but keep most things the same.
“We still want that country feel and service,” Michelle said.
Roly remarked that the administrative side of the business is likely to change, saying he’s a pen and paper man and “these guys know how to use a computer”, joking that when he made a spelling
mistake, he put whiteout on the screen.
It will be a different experience for the new owners, with Steven having sold the bus company he ran for 25 years, and Michelle having worked at VicRoads.
They have been learning the ropes from the old owners and the three staff members who will stay on.
While people enjoy excellent customer service and selecting from a range of items that includes safety equipment, workwear, boots, camping gear and even snakebite kits, Roly’s laid-back manner has also provided plenty of entertainment over the years.
“A lot of banter goes on; we get a lot from the city coming in here quite surprised a retailer can be jovial, and nothing’s too much of a worry and if something’s wrong you just fix it up,” Roly said.
He expressed confidence Steven and Michelle will also ensure customers leave the shop happy.
Roly’s fond memories include the now adult visitors to the store who have commented that they used to get a day off school when Roly was coming to the family farm with his truck and array of interesting items.
He’s continued to get out on the road doing deliveries, recalling that when he ran his mobile business he used to drive around most of Gippsland meeting many interesting people.
When Roly is asked to recall some of the funny moments that have happened in the store, Marianne chips in, “The funniest thing that happens here is you.”
“When you’re 60 plus there’s no filter, within reason,” Roly says when asked about those who are easily offended, noting you have to pick your mark.
It seems Steven and Michelle will have a bit to live up to in the entertainment stakes but their friendly nature suggests they’ll be up to the task.
“The time has come for Marianne and me to make the most of the numbers left on the tape measure of life,” Roly told customers in a letter announcing the couple’s retirement.
They are looking forward to having time to catch up with friends and family and to taking a holiday down the track.
The thousands of loyal customers and most of the staff over the years are also greatly appreciated.