We are proud to have a family of amazing retail stockists across Australia, and we thought it would be a perfect opportunity to showcase the stores and the amazing women behind them. We sat down and had a chat with the beautiful Liz, owner of The Magpie Dungog to have a quick chat about her store, what makes her tick and her love for Avarcas.
WHAT SORT OF STORE IS THE MAGPIE DUNGOG?
The Magpie is a cute Shoplet showcasing an eclectic range of goodies keeping to an ethos of fair trade and sustainably sourced products where possible. From pre-loved to new – clothing, nightwear, accessories, kitchenware, homewares, jewellery, books and, of course, shoes!
Located in a beautiful, historic building in the main street of the picturesque township of Dungog in the Hunter Valley of NSW, The Magpie welcomes many locals and an increasing number of visitors who place this magical part of the world on their must-see list. We have a vibrant community where it is not hard to find your own tribe and do something you love.
WHAT INSPIRED YOU TO START YOUR BUSINESS?
Having worked in a few industries over the years (banking, legal, health insurance, advertising and education) it seemed a natural progression to take my love of ‘gathering’ pre-loved and vintage items and combining them with new and interesting pieces that the idea of having my own place to arrange, display and sell them came about. Finding a suitable space literally just fell into place.
HOW LONG HAS THE BUSINESS BEEN OPEN FOR?
Whilst The Magpie is still young, trading successfully for 18 months now, it has already moved to a second, larger nest in the same building.
WHAT DO YOU LOVE ABOUT YOUR BUSINESS?
I love the space in which my nest is settled and the opportunity to meet the most interesting people who walk through its doors. Everyone has a story and it is quite an honour to chat and meet new friends and hopefully instil a sense of genuine care and authenticity to their day. Obviously to be able to provide a delightful item for them to gift or keep is also wonderful! For someone to purchase something you have chosen and like it just as much as you is a very lovely feeling.
HOW DOES A TYPICAL DAY FOR YOU UNFOLD?
I don’t live far from town and start my day ensuring my two crazy dogs are feeling the love by spending some quality time with them. My beautiful sons have flown the nest so they’re my ‘fur’ babies! I check emails and do what I’ve got to do paperwork-wise to make the day flow before heading in to unlock.
Sometimes, depending on who drops in to visit, a freshly-brewed cuppa from the lovely Steph next door at Stella Bistro Dungog is sipped on the church pew (which sits on our back verandah) whilst we attempt to solve some of the world’s problems There are always things that need doing when you’re in business so it may involve unpacking new stock (exciting!), pricing, re-arranging displays, tidying the space, dealing with stockists, doing bookwork, researching new suppliers and hoping customers will walk in the door and love what they see.
WHAT LITTLE THING IN LIFE GIVES YOU JOY?
Being grateful for what I have. Living in a sanctuary of natural beauty and being able to share that with others. I am fortunate to have my great-niece and nephew living in the area so being with the little people also brings me great joy.
HOW DO YOU RECHARGE YOUR BATTERIES?
Listening to and playing music; reading a book in the hope it’s so wonderful I can’t put it down; sitting by our beautiful river listening to the birdsong; photographing anything and everything and driving around our amazing local area discovering hidden gems. Travelling near and far, when time permits, refreshes me and keeps things in perspective.
WHAT PROMPTED YOU TO PUT AVARCAS AUSTRALIA ON YOUR SHELVES?
I saw a local lady wearing a pair of your glitters and thought “Wow - I’m going to stock them one day”! Her comments on how comfortable and long-lasting they were, sealed the deal.
WHAT ARE YOUR FAVOURITE AVARCAS?
Well, that’s a hard question because I genuinely love them all! I’m currently partial to the Khaki and the Navy with Rose Gold because they pretty much go with everything in my wardrobe but the cowhide and those glitters will always be placed on the pedestal they deserve.
GETTING THERE
Located close to the magnificent Barrington Tops entry points and stunning State Forests, Dungog and surrounds deliver breathtaking, natural beauty with many varied accommodation options available. There are many other shops and lovely places to sit and enjoy a meal here too – it is so worth a visit. Situated 1.25 hours north-west of Newcastle, NSW, and 1 hour east of Maitland, it is an easy drive through rural landscapes.
The Magpie resides at 211 Dowling Street, Dungog 2420.
The Magpie. Dungog's Instagram page will give you a greater insight into some of the treasures available.
OPENING TIMES
Mon CLOSED
Tues CLOSED
Wed 10 am-4 pm
Thurs 10 am-4 pm
Fri 10 am-4 pm
Sat 9 am -3 pm