Reflections on The Gap LOCO's first 10 years The Gap Local Organic Cooperative Ltd. (The Gap LOCO) has now been operating for over 10 years, supplying certified organic produce to The Gap and surrounding suburbs. They are a social enterprise trying to develop a new model of doing business, based on community and sustainability. The LOCO is a registered worker co-operative which means the co-op is run by the workers. At the same time they have the rules of ‘not for profit’ organisations which means the workers do not own the capital of the cooperative. All the profits and assets stay in the co-op and so it is effectively owned by the community. Over the years, there have been many practical and financial challenges for the co-op, but the passion and commitment of the workers and great support from its customers has enabled it to keep afloat. They hope one day to build up to having a permanent shop somewhere in the community. Currently they operate on Mondays, doing home deliveries and with support from the
Oakleigh Scout Group, have a pop- up shop at 15 High St Ashgrove. The co-op has only been able to survive for 10 years because of the on-going support of a very loyal group of supporters/customers. Rob Gaines was a foundation member of the co-op. He is pictured below with Co-op workers Lesley, Rose and Laura. When asked about why he supports the LOCO Rob said, “I like the LOCO because it’s a community- owned group supplying fresh, nutritious, good tasting organic veggies. There is a very nice casual relaxed atmosphere. It’s great to be able to chat with like-minded people who are very happy to discuss current events and issues while I’m doing my shopping. I buy certified organic produce as I want to make sure I am avoiding harmful chemicals from artificial pesticides, herbicides and fertilisers. I also want to support the hard work of organic farmers who go the extra distance in growing food organically.” When asked about the pop
— VALE — NURDON SERICO The funeral of The Gap Historical Society's late member Nurdon Serico was held on Thursday 12th May, where he was farewelled by a large gathering of his family, friends and colleagues, including several members of our Society. Nurdon was remembered for his outstanding achievements not only in radiography but also in sports and community involvement. Nurdon was awarded the Lord Mayor ’s Cultural Award in 2018 and he was created a PILLAR OF THE GAP in recognition of his standing in the community in 2019. Nurdon was a longstanding member of The Gap historical Society and served as President for the 2013/14 year. He will be sadly missed by all who knew him. website: http://www.westernecho.com.au
up shop, Rob said, “It’s a nice open air market set amongst native trees. Much better than shopping in a closedin, artificial environment”. He encourages other local people to support this small community-based enterprise and other similar social enterprises. “We need other businesses like the Gap LOCO”.
For a current price list and details about ordering visit the Co-Op's website: thegaploco.com or email thegaploco@gmail.com. Deliveries are made on Mondays and the pop-up shop operates at 15 High Street Ashgrove (Oakleigh Scouts car park) between 10am and 5pm on Mondays.
Inside the June Issue...
Amnesty International..................................................................15 Ashgrove Historical Society..............................................................6 Ashgrove Rangers..........................................................................6 Ashgrove/The Gap Lions Club....................................................8 Brisbane Tramway Museum...........................................................30 Carinity Chaplain Appeal................................................................12 Chess T’Minit.......................................................................26 Enoggera Historical Society.......................................................18 Hear and Say........................................................................19 Ithaca Probus Club...............................................................10 Mitchelton Garden Club..........................................................28 Newmarket Bocce Club.......................................................................31 Newmarket VIEW Club...............................................................21 Older Women's Network Mitchelton...........................................16 Paten Park Native Nursery (PPNN).............................................28 Picabeen Community Association..............................................27 Principal’s Points....................................................................22 & 23 Repair Cafe The Gap..................................................................14 Rotary Club of Ashgrove/The Gap .......................................................24 Seranata Singers..............................................................................13 SOWN (Save Our Waterways Now)...........................................29 State Update - Jonty Bush - Member for Cooper.........................5 The Gap Historical Society......................................................26 The Gap LOCO..................................................................................3 The Gap Probus Club.................................................................24 The Gap RSL Sub Branch...........................................................7 The Gap Sustainability Initiative ...............................................................4 Vale - Nurdon Serico.....................................................................20-21 West Brisbane Orchid Society............................................................29 The Western Echo June 2022 Page 3
