Image supplied by Fr Paul Stuart (the volunteers and Fr Paul Stuart at the opening of the new St Vinnies Store in Somerville, Victoria.)
On Remembrance Day 2026, the Somerville community witnessed a powerful intersection of service and charity with the opening of a new St Vincent de Paul (“Vinnies”) shop near the HMAS Cerberus naval base.
Blessed by retired Navy Chaplain Father Paul Stuart, the new store stands as a vital sanctuary in an area deeply shaped by its military ties. For many returned servicemen and women, the call to serve does not end with a discharge certificate, and a significant number of local veterans have stepped up to drive the charity's mission as volunteers.
Yet, the bittersweet reality of today’s cost-of-living crisis means that some veterans are also walking through the doors as customers facing housing, financial, or transition challenges.
Having a store staffed by fellow veterans completely removes the stigma of seeking help, ensuring that those who fall on hard times are met with genuine peer understanding rather than pity. Through this profound cycle of mutual support, the legacy of defence forces' mateship thrives on the ground, proving that even in the toughest times, our returned servicemen and women will always find a way to march alongside those who need them most.
The entire community is warmly invited to come and visit the new store, located at 2 Eramosa Road East, Somerville VIC 3912 (enter via Eramosa Rd East; all-day parking out the back).
The doors are open Monday to Sunday from 9:30 AM to 5:00 PM. For those wishing to support the cause, an internal donation station is available on-site for pre-loved clothing, accessories, homewares, books, and more in good condition. For support, volunteer enquiries, or general questions, you can reach out via email at vinnies@vinnies.org.au or call the helpline on 13 18 12.
By MO Media Team