Port Fairy's Brookes Hardware and Timber sold after 45 years

Brookes Hardware and Timber will have new owners from November 1.

The iconic business which fronts Sackville Street and runs through to Princes Street has been sold to a buyer, who wants to remain anonymous, for an undisclosed price.

Ken and June Brookes, who owned the business since March 1976, are delighted the town will continue to have a hardware business.

"The sale has proven to be a great result, not only for us but for the town," Mrs Brookes told The Standard.

"It'll stay as a hardware business which is wonderful for the town.

"Over the years our five children and other family members all worked in the business at various stages and we've given more than 130 local people employment which has been very rewarding.

"The 45 years seems like a long journey but the years have gone quickly. Ken and I are aiming to have a good break and enjoy travelling in the future."

The Brookes' bought Stuart Brown's hardware store in Bank Street 45 years ago before relocating the business to its present site in 1983.

Ken's brother Owen and wife Ros were partners in the business from 1983 until 2000 when they moved to Queensland with their family.

"We were the first shop to have automatic doors in Port Fairy and believe me the locals thought that was impressive," Mrs Brookes said.

"We've been very lucky to have received incredible support from the Port Fairy community and outlying areas over the years.

"We're extremely thankful for their support and friendship."

Plans to hold a community event to mark 45 years in business have been put on hold because of COVID-19.

"We were planning to say thanks to everyone but COVID has stopped that," she said.

"We're looking at doing some front window displays which will highlight our 45 years in the town over the next few weeks and we welcome anyone who has some old photos or memorabilia to get in contact with us through the store or via our Facebook page."

Robertson Real Estate director Paul Ross, who oversaw the sale, said the new owners were excited about their upcoming venture.

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