By PEACE IJIYERA

 

 

AN iconic local business will be sorely missed, as Grow Master Traralgon announced their upcoming closure after 62 years of serving the community.

Craig and Debbie Goodman are retiring after 40 years of ownership.

From the garden supply yard to green stock, outdoor living, home décor, hardware equipment and clothing, the Argyle Street business has been considered a hot spot for garden lovers and gift givers, drawing customers locally, nationally and internationally.

Founded by Len Van Berkel in 1964, the business was formerly known as Van Berkel’s Nursery. His sons, Arch and Henny, later purchased the business from their father.

After completing tertiary education in horticulture in 1983, Mr Goodman was employed as manager of the garden centre. He went on to buy the nursery from the Van Berkel brothers in 1986.

Well deserved: After 40 years, owners Craig and Debbie Goodman are retiring. Photograph supplied

Still bearing the name, Van Berkel’s Nursery, the business joined an independent marketing and buying group called Grow Master Nurseries Victoria. Mr Goodman was one of the founding members of this group and is still a member.

As it is known today, the businesses name was officially changed to Grow Master Traralgon in the year 2000.

After three years of attempting to sell the business, with no buyers, the Goodman’s made the difficult decision to close down.

“We were hoping that someone would purchase the business so the community, who have supported us over the 40 years, could continue to enjoy Grow Master Traralgon as it is today,” Ms Goodman said.

Extensive: The gift shop opens up into a vast nursery.

Acknowledging the size of the shop, the huge responsibility it would be to take on, and financial constraints, Ms Goodman understands why it’s proven difficult to sell.

“It is a big place, you’ve got the garden supply yard, you’ve got the green stock, you’ve got clothes, jewelry, giftware, chemicals … if you look at the plaza, it’s probably … seven or eight different businesses in one,” she said.

Arguably the most difficult part of shutting the business down was informing the staff.

“I couldn’t hold back the tears,” Ms Goodman said.

“[They’re] happy for us, but sad for themselves and the community. It’s just such a mix of emotions.”

Variety: The store has sold all things garden supplies, through to niche gifts.

Many locals would recall the shop burning down in December 2012 due to an electrical fault.

Ms Goodman described it as a terrible event, but one that demonstrated community spirit and support.

“The community were amazing. We had people rolling up with eskies full of drinks and food from the locals … people getting in and helping us clean up … [we] really could see how the community loved this place,” she said.

The shop was rebuilt and opened for business in October 2013.

Walking through the gift shop opening to a vast nursery, the award-winning business has become a place that customers get engrossed in, taking their time to browse through the arrays of garden displays.

Any excuse to use the word photosynthesis: The study of plants was alive in the outdoor nursery.

Using Facebook to announce the upcoming closure, the Goodmans penned a heartfelt message to their customers and the community.

“It is with a heavy heart that we announce the upcoming closure of Grow Master Traralgon,” the post read.

“Thank you for supporting us through the years, and sharing so many wonderful moments with us.

“It is now time for us to slow down, spend more time with family, and enjoy a well-deserved rest.”

Potted: Many local gardens are filled with pieces such as these from Grow Master Traralgon.

In response, hundreds of comments from customers expressing their love for the shop were left.

“Christmas will never be the same without the wonderful displays. You will be missed,” one commenter wrote.

“Growmaster is a place that could never be replaced.”

“Will be sorely missed as an icon in our town. You have graced the gardens and houses far and wide with your produce,” another wrote.

Greenery: The premises was rebuilt in 2013, following a devastating fire, thanks to the help of the Traralgon community. Photographs: Peace Ijiyera

Ms Goodman expects that the business will stay open until later this year. As there is still an overwhelming amount of stock to clear, the store is currently holding sales up to 50 per cent off. Ms Goodman encouraged people to take advantage of the sales and complete their Christmas shopping.

In their retirement, the Goodmans are looking forward to making memories with their grandchildren and are dreaming of a white Christmas.

The absence of Grow Master Traralgon will be felt, but the memories will last the community a lifetime.