A large crowd was on hand to celebrate the first birthday of Craft Corner’s operations from their current Clarinda Street location.
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The popular store that features the works of the district’s many craftspeople, found a new home through the generosity of local businessman Ian Chambers.
It was the positive aftermath of the horrific fire that destroyed the Auslec building on the corner of Dalton and Bogan streets on August 1, 2014.
In the process the fire severely damaged the neighbouring craft store which forced operators to seek a new location or close down.
Along came Ian and Judy Chambers with the offer for them to use the former Reflection Jewellers building at the same rental fee as what members were paying in Dalton Street.
As president Rosemary Mitchell said during her speech at the celebrations - “I’ve often told Ian that we are never, ever leaving this building.”
“Being in this building is the best thing that has happened to Craft Corner in its 42 year history,” Rosemary said.
Rosemary welcomed everyone to the special celebration including Deputy Mayor Cr Barbara Newton, landlords Ian and Judy Chambers, and Brooke Daniels from ABC Central West in Orange.
“Cr Newton has supported Craft Corner in numerous ways over the years; Brooke Daniels too with our Knit and Natter and other publicity, as has the Champion Post.”
Thanks were also extended to Gregor and Marty Paul from Parkes Stationery for their help and assistance, especially with the supply of the new card stands and assorted stationery.
“In particular I want to thank and welcome all our members and craftspeople here today,” she said.
Rosemary commented how the Craft Corner membership had increased considerably since moving to the CBD.
“Our new members have brought with them a range of beautiful and very well made crafts such as colourful quilts, mosaics, art, dolls, embroidered towels, framed pictures and beautiful bags,” she said.
“We expect many Christmas gifts to be purchased from here.”
Rosemary said several of the artistic sewers have promised beautiful creations of rock and roll skirts and all things Elvis for the festival in January.
“We are proud to say that many of our customers who travel around Australia repeatedly tell us that Parkes Craft Corner is the most beautiful and best craft shop of its kind that they have ever seen.
“Our shop is a definite asset to Parkes, providing a place for visitors to spend their time and money, or simply look at the beautiful craftworks.
“Happy birthday to us, and may there be many more.”
Deputy Mayor, Cr Barbara Newton congratulated Craft Corner for reaching its first year in the new premises.
“We at council are very proud of Craft Corner and what it does for the community,” she said.
“It is such a welcoming place.
“The shop always looks beautiful and personally, I just love coming in here to look around and of course purchase something made by our talented locals.” Cr Newton said.
