The clock is ticking for the Homicide Victims Support Group (HVSG) to relocate its ‘New Leaf’ op-shop, with the not-for-profit ordered to vacate to make way for Metro West construction.
The group, first established in 1993 by parents of murder victims Anita Cobby and Ebony Simpson, opened its Maquarie Street op-shop in Janurary this year.
The purpose of the shop is to fund operations of Grace’s Place, the first residential trauma centre for children and families impacted by homicide, which is currently under construction in Doonside.
Expected to be completed by the end of this year, Grace’s Place, named after Anita Cobby’s mother Grace Lynch, will be run by HVSG and provide critical support and counselling services.
HVSG President Rob Taylor, whose son Simon was fatally stabbed, knows first hand the life changing impact the HVSG has on victim’s families.
He says business has been booming at the op-shop since opening, with the money set to make a huge difference.
But now, with a deadline to vacate by June 30, he fears for the road ahead.
“It is very important that we can continue with this business,” he said.
“It’s not only helping people clean out their wardrobes but is helping our volunteers, 95 per cent of which are made up of homicide victims’ families.
“Working in the shop is bringing them back out, making an enormous difference in so many lives.”
The group currently occupies 64 Macquarie Street, the historic circa 1842 Kia Ora also known as Houison’s Cottage rent-free, thanks to the generosity of the landlord.
Sydney Metro will drill 38 metres underneath the site to make way for the Parramatta Metro Station.
“We haven’t had any success, we just don’t have the money to be competitive with all the other relocating businesses looking for new shop fronts,” Mr Taylor said.
A Sydney Metro spokesperson said they have the appropriate measures in place to ensure the historic building is not damaged during construction and said they are working to assist the HVSG.
“Through the ongoing design and development process, Sydney Metro is committed to protecting heritage items during construction,” the spokesperson said.
“Sydney Metro has advised the group via face to face meetings and numerous phone calls that they are entitled to apply for compensation from the Valuer General.
“Sydney Metro recognises the importance of the work this group does and will continue to work with them to support them through this process.”
The HVSG are calling for community assistance to help them find its op-shop a new home.
If you can help, please call 8833 8400.
Troy Dodds is Parra News' Managing Editor and Breaking News Reporter. He has more than 20 years experience as a journalist, working with some of Australia’s leading media organisations. In 2023, he was named Editor of the Year at the Mumbrella Publish Awards.