Gordon Reid (Robertson, Australian Labor Party) | Link to this | Hansard source

Today I rise to recognise the Bourke Road General Store in my home town of Umina, which just celebrated its 70th anniversary. On Saturday 22 June, current owners Michelle and Matthew Overton put on a great party to celebrate this fantastic milestone. There was music performed by Jason Hicks, treats provided by local Lena and even a special appearance by 94-year-old Betty, the daughter of the original owners, who first opened the store in 1954.

I love to get out in my electorate and support local businesses, especially one that has been operating for so long. I have very happy memories of visiting this store with my family when I was a kid. The Burke Road store has a long history, originally built as a house by the Adams family in 1920. It was named 'Plymouth', after Mrs Adams's home town. The Adams family slowly turned their home into a shopfront and a grocery store.

The store has now been operated by the same family for the last 27 years. Current owners Matthew and Michelle have transformed it into the boutique store that locals love today. Independent local stores are an integral part of our community and provide locals with not only a place to shop but also a space to come together for a cup of coffee or a catch-up. Congratulations, Bourke Road store. I wish you well for the next 70 years and beyond.