What started out as a small project in 2022, the Aurukun Op shop has turned into a legitimate and well-loved local business. With sales and work demands increasing, CYE recognised the Op Shop would be the perfect workplace for Community Projects staff. There now are four staff helping CYE Activities Supervisor Konio Lynch with running the shop. They assist daily with tasks, such as sorting, price tagging, attending to customer enquiries and making sure the Op shop is clean and tidy.
Konio said the venture has proved popular with the community who are always looking for value for money and convenience.
“We’ve been really surprised at how popular our op shop has been,” Konio said. “The feedback is all positive, people love going through the racks and finding a bargain.”
The success of the shop has enabled CYE to create a positive social impact by supporting Aurukun Uniting Church with the purchase of a projector, laptop and printer.
"The feedback is all positive, people love going through the racks and finding a bargain." - Konio Lynch, Auruku
The church chairman Wes Koomeeta in receiving the gifts thanked Cape York Employment for the “kind donation” that would “greatly benefit the community”.
The Community Advisory Board highlighted the need for the items, which CYE purchased with proceeds from the Op Shop.