Woman behind op shop wins seniors award
Ettalong op shop operator Ms Carmen Wells has won the 2025 Gosford Seniors Award Winner.
Ms Wells and her husband Steve have run the Finders Keepers 17 opportunity shop in Ettalong for the past five years.
"Finders Keepers provides low-cost necessities and everyday items, while also acting as a safe and judgement-free space for all who enter," said Member for Gosford Ms Liesl Tesch congratulating Ms Wells on her win.
"Carmen received a record-breaking number of nominations for her work, with multiple nominators describing her as a beloved and integral part of the community.
"Nominators have described Carmen's dedication to all members of the community, especially those experiencing poverty, homelessness, physical and mental health issues."
She said that one nominator commented that Ms Wells treated all people with courtesy, dignity and respect.
Many left her shop uplifted and happy that someone cared about them, according to that nomination.
"I have heard from so many members of our community about the positive impact that Carmen has had on their lives and the lives of those around them," said Ms Tesch.
"Her community-minded spirit, kindness, and generosity is a true symbol of the best of our community, and her dedication to not only individual community members but also local groups and charities is an inspiration.
"Our community is incredibly lucky to have such wonderful role models."
The Gosford Local Seniors Award recognised individuals who make a positive contribution to the Central Coast community through their work, volunteering efforts, involvement in sports or community activities, she said.
Ms Wells said: "I'd also like to say, our shop has succeeded due to the hard work of our wonderful volunteers.
"The shop has grown from a seed to a beanstalk and beyond, only because of the community.
"The phone never stops ringing in our house. It's just so busy."
"I'd like to say thank you to my husband Steven, for doing absolutely everything."
SOURCE:
Media release, 30 May 2025
Joely Langmaid, Office of the Member for Gosford