Exploring op shops on the Northern Beaches

Reduce, reuse, recycle – these three Rs are the gold standard in our quest to lessen our environmental impact and embrace sustainable living.One great way to embody these principles is by shopping at op shops, which not only contribute to reducing waste but also offer a treasure trove of unique and affordable finds. Here on the Northern Beaches we have a great range of second-hand shops, so let’s go pop some thrift shop tags and grab a bargain while helping to save the planet.

Lifeline

Lifeline has established itself as one of the most prominent op shop chains across Australia. With multiple locations on the Northern Beaches, you’re sure to discover a wide variety of clothing, accessories, books, homewares and more. The funds raised from these stores go towards Lifeline’s vital counselling and crisis support services. You will find Lifeline op shops in Manly, Brookvale, Balgowlah, Narrabeen, Mona Vale and Dee Why. In addition to clothing, Manly Lifeline specialises in second-hand books, with an entire floor dedicated to the written word.

Vinnies

St Vincent de Paul Society, also called Vinnies, is another well-known op shop chain that has been making a positive impact on the community for decades. The stores in Brookvale, Manly, Balgowlah and Newport offer a curated selection of pre-loved items, including fashion, furniture and household goods. Manly Vinnies often has a range of high-quality leather jackets and purses, while Balgowlah Vinnies is known for its designer section, with luxury-label dresses, tops and skirts. Brookvale Vinnies is by far the largest of the three stores, with a warehouse dedicated to furniture and homeware. In Newport the focus is on clothing made from natural fibres such as cotton or linen, and homewares made from biodegradable or recyclable materials such as rattan, bamboo and glass. They also stock the new range of Vinnies recycled homewares.

Salvos

The Salvation Army’s Salvos op shops are a true delight for bargain hunters, stocking everything from vintage clothing to modern homewares. The proceeds from these stores support the Salvation Army’s initiatives to help those in need.

The Salvos op shops are particularly appealing because they offer bargains on bargains: every day different coloured tags indicate which items are subject to a whopping 50% off; on Mondays keep an eye out for the $2 rack; on Thursdays pensioners and seniors get 20% off; on Saturdays students get 20% off; and carers get 20% off every day.

The Balgowlah Salvos has a vast designer range, while in Brookvale, one is the largest Salvos on the Northern Beaches, you’ll find racks and racks of clothes, plus unique knick-knacks. Mona Vale Salvos is best known for its homeware and furniture.

Red Cross

The Red Cross op shops are worth exploring if you’re looking for hidden gems. From clothing and accessories to toys and games, you never know what treasure awaits you on the shelves. Shopping here helps the Red Cross continue its humanitarian efforts. There are stores located in Manly, Newport and Avalon. The Manly store has a selection of high-quality vintage items.

Save the Children Op Shop, Dee Why

Save the Children in Dee Why is a heartwarming place where you can find pre-loved goods in excellent condition. The store’s proceeds go towards supporting Save the Children’s programs that focus on the wellbeing and rights of children in Australia and around the world.

Goodwill Op Shop, Brookvale

Goodwill Op Shop offers a fantastic shopping experience, with a diverse range of second-hand items. Whether you’re looking for clothing, electronics or home decor, this store is a must-visit. By shopping here, you are contributing to Goodwill’s efforts to create employment opportunities for people with disabilities and other barriers to work. This warehouse op shop has lots of furniture and other décor.

The Resilience Circle, Mona Vale

The Women’s Resilience Centre is thrilled to announce the opening of Resilience Circle in Mona Vale, a unique shopping experience focused on homewares with a dash of fashion. Designed to be more than just a retail space, Resilience Circle will serve as a vibrant point of connection, bringing together community members to inspire and support one another.

Donate and gift your special homewares and dignified clothing to not only help another life but help the environment too. Give a gift that just keeps giving. Drop in and buy a gift that gifts another or donate treasures that can help another.

All proceeds go to the Women’s Resilience Centre.

Tips for sustainable thrifting

Before you head out on your op shop adventure, keep these tips in mind:

1. Keep an open mind: Op shops are like treasure hunts – you never know what you might find and what gems you might unearth.
2. Inspect items carefully: Check items for any damage or wear, especially clothing and electronics, to ensure you’re getting good value for your money.
3. Try on everything: Sizes can vary, and some items may be pre-loved, so it’s best to try on clothing before purchasing.
4. Donate and recycle: If you have items you no longer need, consider donating them to these op shops. It’s a fantastic way to declutter while contributing to a good cause.
5. Bring your own bag: Help reduce plastic waste by bringing your own reusable shopping bag.
6. Get a loyalty card: Some stores offer loyalty cards, which is great for regular thrift shoppers. Both the Red Cross and Salvos offer cards.

Happy thrifting!