I know it’s been a ridiculous amount of time since I posted here, but I hope to rectify that as things settle down. Between starting a new job, some medical stuff and moving house, this year has been a hectic one.

My ‘to-do’ list is ridiculously long but as I finally ticked off two of the things on it today I thought I’d share them with you.

Once upon a time gift buying and frivolous self-indulgent purchase options were fairly limited here in Hervey Bay. I’ve written before about a few gift shops in Maryborough (though I know Janet’s Art has now closed and I’m not sure about Maddison’s Cottage). In the Bay I’ve relied on Pandanus (on the Esplanade) or Open House (Boat Harbour Drive, Pialba) for most of the ‘stuff’ I want need.

However… although I’ve been watching from the sidelines I’ve been celebrating the arrival of some new alternatives and today FINALLY made it there to investigate.

Space & Oddity

Space & Oddity appeals to me on so many levels. Although I’m a little confused about the ‘&’.

Firstly, it’s quirky so HELLO… what’s not to like?! Plus they’re excellent marketers and have held a number of events since they opened with a bang several months ago. On top of that I salivate every time I see something new on their Facebook page. They sell furniture, comics, records, clothing and things you don’t even realise you need.

Their goods are eclectic anyway but this month they’ve been odder than usual, today hosting Oddities in the Attic. When I asked, they said they were going more for a ‘kitschy’ Ripley’s Believe It Or Not theme than Halloween. And they certainly achieved that.

And, I should note, this was in response to my…. “Do you always stock teeth?” question.

I’m not sure if I should be embarrassed that I recognised so many of the ‘retro’ products and was bizarrely comforted by the familiar sense I got from some. I swear I’m only in my 20s. Not double that. Ahem. I’ve never heard of Tang or drank it as if it was nectar from the gods! 😉

On the recommendation of a friend, as well as expanding my Hervey Bay shopping repertoire, I was also on the hunt for something for my recently-purchased drinks trolley. The trolley itself seemed like a good idea until I realised I had nothing to place on there. And as it happens I found a très cute ice bucket for the excellent price of $18.

Thankfully Space & Oddity is very active on Facebook – an imperative as it’s the sort of store you need to monitor closely as you never know what will arrive when.

Find them: around the corner from Dominos Pizza on the esplanade at Torquay
3/486 Charlton Esplanade, Torquay

Follow them on Facebook for opening hours, upcoming events and fun pics.

Gypsies, Tramps & Thieves

I passed this store a few weeks ago and some cushions caught my eye. I couldn’t stop at the time but then yesterday on Instagram they shared this picture of some gorgeous new stock.

I was in love. Sadly I’m not in need of cups and saucers, but it seemed the perfect time to pop in and investigate.

The store is gorgeous and has a tasteful minimalistic feel. They stock clothes – some nice light linen pieces and an array of kaftans and the like. There’s also jewellery, some home decor and then a heap of gorgeous candles and body cream and wash.

The branding on the latter very much appealed to my sense of humour and I (w)racked my brain for upcoming birthdays. Cos… guess what they’ll be getting?!

Like Space & Oddity the store supports local artists and their range changes regularly.

Although I was eyeing off some of the jewellery I reminded myself that I don’t actually need any. I did – however – inadvertently walk away with a gorgeous carafe and glass. Ostensibly it’s for my drinks trolley but I’m now thinking it’d be really cute on my desk at home. Not to mention useful.

Find them: Shop 3, Corner the Esplanade & Bideford St, Torquay.

Check out their Facebook page for more info and pics of current stock.  And follow them on Instagram.

I know a few other places have popped up in Hervey Bay in recent times. Where else should I be shopping?