A DANDENONG retail leader stepped down from his post and an iconic business was applauded at an eventful Dandenong Retail Traders’ Association (DRTA) Christmas dinner.
DRTA chairman Roy Aspinall retired from the position after 16 years at the Dandenong Club event on Tuesday 27 November.
Among his last acts was announcing Heidi Rose Clothing as the Central Dandenong Retailer of the Year.
For the first time the public was invited to vote for its favourite retailer to determine the winner, and the Foster Street business was among five finalists.
The store’s Kathryne Turtan-Lane said Heidi Rose Clothing had grown and developed its customer base over 35-plus years.
“Our clothing represents individuality and it’s about women celebrating their shapes,” she said.
She said the store was about an experience in shopping, forming friendships, and a holistic experience.
“It’s about nourishing the soul,” she said.
“I know most of my customers by name. I love what I do, I do it with passion.
“I’d like to see Heidi Rose Clothing grow and shine its light.”
The store beat finalists Menzline Mason Reed, Polish Rye Crust Baker, The Good Guys and Universal Poolcare.
Mr Aspinall said the award brought extra prestige to retailers in Victoria’s largest shopping precinct outside central Melbourne.
He said representing those retailers had been an honour and a pleasure.
“I have decided that it is time I made a change personally,” he said.
“I’ll still be around to assist wherever I can.”
City of Greater Dandenong Mayor Angela Long said the Highway Bowls Centre owner was “a powerhouse of the local business community”.
She said he had lobbied for a group separate to the chamber of commerce that focused solely on retail traders, and the DRTA was born.
“The association has provided an important network for retail traders,” she said.
“His skill as a trader and organiser is unending.
“Roy has worked tirelessly for the improvement of the association and Dandenong.”
Cr Long presented him with a letter under seal from the council “in recognition of his contribution to the Dandenong business community” and thanked him for his dedication.
Mr Aspinall said successor Glenys Cooper from Compleat Angler, Camping World and Mason Reed Clothing was a dedicated retailer and congratulated her on her election.
“Glenys has some excellent ideas to take the association forward and I am sure that all members, and future members, will benefit,” he said.
“I have thoroughly enjoyed my 16 years as chairperson and thank everyone who has assisted and supported me over that time.”
Ms Cooper said she was looking forward to the role – but certainly wouldn’t be standing in Mr Aspinall’s shoes 16 years down the track.
“I’m not sure why I’m doing this – I’ve got big shoes to fill,” she said.
“I intend to give it my best for probably two years.”
She presented Mr Aspinall with a plaque for all the work he’d done for the organisation.
“I don’t think it would be in such a good place without it,” she said.
See page 6 for more DRTA Christmas dinner coverage.
