After more than 40 years of serving antique enthusiasts and collectors, Southside Antiques Centre in Annerley is preparing to close its doors for the final time.
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Owner Rhonda McGuigan, 84, has announced her retirement, bringing an end to a beloved local institution that has been a cornerstone of the community since 1983.
The McGuigan family acquired the shop in 1986, transforming it into one of the largest antiques stores in Australia. Known for its vast array of collectibles and high-quality items, Southside Antiques Centre has become a treasure trove for collectors of all interests.
Ms McGuigan shared that she had been searching for someone to take over the shop’s legacy but had been unsuccessful in finding a suitable successor. Despite this challenge, she looks back on her time at the helm with fondness and gratitude.
Reflecting on her years at the shop, Ms McGuigan spoke of the wonderful memories made and the lasting friendships formed with customers. She remarked on the joy of watching generations of families come through the doors, with people who first visited as babies in prams now returning as adults.
As she prepares for this new chapter in her life, Ms McGuigan expressed her plans to take a few months off before deciding how to spend her retirement. She mentioned a desire to travel, something she rarely had the opportunity to do while running the shop.
Southside Retirement Sale
To celebrate the store’s long history and give customers a chance to take home a piece of Southside Antiques Centre, a Southside Retirement Sale will kick off on Saturday, July 6. Ms McGuigan extended an invitation to the community to join in celebrating the shop’s long history while enjoying some bargain shopping.
The sale will feature a 25 percent discount on all stock (excluding fixtures and fittings, which can be separately negotiated). It will continue until all items are sold, with the shop open from 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m., Tuesday to Saturday.
As the holiday season approaches, so does the final chapter for this iconic establishment. Ms McGuigan indicated her intention to close the shop permanently by Christmas, marking the end of an era for antique lovers in Annerley and beyond.
For those who have yet to experience the wonder of Southside Antiques Centre, or for long-time patrons wanting to say goodbye, now is the time to visit. Step into a world where every item tells a story, and where four decades of passion for antiques have created an unparalleled shopping experience.
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While the closure of Southside Antiques Centre signifies the end of an era, it also celebrates a remarkable journey. As Ms McGuigan prepares to turn the final page on this chapter of her life, the memories and connections forged within these walls will undoubtedly live on in the hearts of the Annerley community and beyond.
Published 5-July-2024
