Catholic Diocese of Bathurst Bishop  Michael McKenna blessed the store, alongside Parish Priest of St Mary’s and St Joseph’s Father Greg Bellamy.

Bishop McKenna said the new store showed “Vinnies in Orange is alive and well and keeping on trying to do new things.”

Acting Executive Officer of St Vincent de Paul’s Bathurst Central Council Lukas Rajnoch said the new store was an “exciting opportunity” for Vinnies to attract new customers and thank loyal ones.

Mr Rajnoch said the store would also help community work, as well as selling cheap, good items. 

“All the fund we raise in the Orange shop go towards assisting people in the community, here in Orange and in the wider area,” he said.

“One of the ways we do that is in winter when people can’t pay their electricity bills we help them out so they can keep the heater on during winter.”

“We also assist people with food so families can put food on the table and a brekky van that will engage with people on the margins.”

Mr Rajnoch said he was hoping the community would see the store as more than just a charity shop. 

“We have wonderful fashion – if you’re coming to look for fashion, looking for toys or DVDs for enjoyment, or whether you’re looking for furnishing, come and see,” he said.

“You’ll be presently surprised.”

“We have a great range that’s refreshed every week.

“We’ve got a lot of range for young people so come and have a look,” he said.

The new store is at 163-165 Peisley Street.