IT is such a shock and very depressing to see the number of empty shops in and around Gawler and other country regions.
It is also a sad indication of the lack of support and assistance by those who could possibly help small business and who don’t, or who make it so difficult and frustrating, that the people give up.
For me, the closure of this small business is not just another statistic.
Vadoulis Garden Centre was my go-to happy place, not only to buy my much-loved plants, but also to have some social interaction with fellow gardeners and to ask Milton and his great staff for advice and information.
I knew them and they knew me.
I even knew and would chat with Milton’s beautiful mother over a coffee.
I have been going to this little slice of garden heaven for 27 years.
After having finished buying what was, usually, far too many plants, it was great to go to the café and have a meal, delicious cakes or homemade scones and a cup of tea or coffee and just sit and relax.
Again, the closure of this small business doesn’t just mean that 20 good people will lose their jobs.
Yes, there are other nurseries around but none that I have found that offer the same type of help and friendship that Milton’s nursery did.
More importantly, when I was feeling sad or low, I would go back to the nursery and it always helped improve my mood.
As from June 30, all that has gone.
Mental health has been at the forefront for years now and rightfully so.
I cannot help but wonder if the resultant outpouring of disappointment and sadness expressed, as in the case of this nursery’s closure, ever get considered by the authorities that are making these decisions.
Rather they seem determined to make things as difficult as possible for them.
It is these small businesses that make such a difference to the lives of so many people and they are also important to keep our wonderful country going and help counter the worry and stress that has permeated this world and our lives.
Thank you Milton and all your staff for 27 years of beautiful plants, enjoyment, care and friendship.
I can assure you, you will be missed very much indeed.
Caroline Waugh,
Lyndoch
