End of era for local fashion retailer

AN ERA has ended for a major local business, with BTs for Fashion closing its doors for the last time at Tea Gardens’ Myall Quays shopping centre.

Nearly 20 years ago, Harry, Diane, Nicole, Adam, and their families, who hailed from Townsville in Queensland, brought a new outlet for fashion and accessories to Tea Gardens, filling a major space at the then-new shopping centre.

“Nineteen years ago, while sitting around a dining table in Townsville, our family talked about the possibility of moving to Tea Gardens to be closer to family,” explained Harry.

“The usual questions were asked – houses, jobs, schools – and it was during those conversations that BT’s was born, named from the combination of our surnames’ initials.

“Little did we know what the next 19 years would hold.”

The BT’s people spent countless hours installing display shelves, entering stock, and carefully choosing items they hoped their customers would love.

Within just two years of opening, the Global Financial Crisis wreaked havoc, testing not only their patience but overall resolve to keep going.

“We experienced the highs and lows of tourist seasons and learned quickly about life in a small town,” Harry said.

“One lovely customer once shared some advice along the lines of, ‘Everyone in town is either related or in a relationship’ – not her exact words, but you get the idea.”

Then came COVID-19 and the forced closure of businesses, again testing their resilience.

“That period saw immense growth in the Just Devine Aromas line – candles, melts, perfumes, and diffusers – I guess if you are forced to stay home what better thing to do than online shop for gorgeous items to keep your home smelling amazing,” Diane said.

Day-to-day challenges abounded, of course, such as a multitude of clothing tags pushed behind changeroom mirrors and people caught stealing sunglasses.

They even had one person, when approached, confidently correct the price from $20 to $19.99, all while insisting they hadn’t stolen the item.

They even witnessed the theft of a shirt and followed the individual to their car, only to see them break into it by punching the window.

It was one of many events that could fill a book about the daily happenings of a shopkeeper.

“But alongside those moments were [many] more good ones,” Harry said.

“We watched our children and grandchildren grow up within the business, often hearing comments like, ‘I remember when you were a baby,’ or ‘Gosh, they’ve grown’.

“We made lifelong friends through our children, took part in local fashion shows and fundraising events, and supported countless community initiatives.

“In one year alone, we calculated that we donated over $10,000 to local charities and sporting groups.

“We have had the privilege of sharing our lives with our wonderful customers and being included in [theirs], and for that, we will be forever grateful.”

Many who started out as customers quickly became friends, relationships they hope to cherish for years to come.

While this may be the end of BT’s Tea Gardens, they will continue to retail Just Devine Aromas products via their online business of the same name.

The all-important baton of local NSW Lotteries sales has been passed to Monica and Russell and their team at Tea Gardens Post Office.

“We wish them all the very best for the future and hope you continue to support them as you have supported us over the past seven years,” Harry added.

“Thank you for your unwavering support, and we look forward to seeing you all again this time in a more casual setting.”

By Thomas O’KEEFE