V
PUMP
The Samford Progress Association’s free community newspaper printed continuously since 1977.
The ILLAGE
@TheVillagePumpSamford
“Your Community Newspaper, owned by the Samford Community and produced for the benefit of the Samford Community.” 04 AUGUST, 2023
P: 0477 663 696
E: editor@villagepump.org.au NEXT DEADLINE THURSDAY 10/08/2023
END OF AN ERA FOR GLEAM O’DAWN Long time owners of Gleam O’Dawn Rural Store, Alan and Louise Sivkoff, have decided to sling their last bale of hay and retire between the valley and Macleay Island. “We arrived with our children Fiona, Armonde and Marcus in Samford 27 years ago to start what for us was an almighty leap into the unknown. Neither of us had any hands on experience at running a retail store and business and with three young kids it was quite daunting,” said Alan. However, despite some early set backs, the family business persevered and grew into the business we know and love today. Along the way, new sheds, concreted customer car parking and improved retail facilities were built, providing improved services and a pleasant customer experience. Over the last 27 years, enduring friendships with Samford Valley and surrounding districts residents have been built. “In fact, we still have customers who have been with Gleam O’Dawn since the very early days when Clem and Val Gillies owned the business,” said Alan. “Samford has been fantastic. Where else in a capital city will you have such an attractive rural environment within 20kms of the CBD.”
Louise and Alan are proud of their achievements, particularly with the business support of local riding groups, schools, football clubs and other fundraising ventures. They are so appreciative of the staff, majority of which are Samford locals or nearby. “In particular, a big thank you
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to John McClenaghan who has been with us for 15 years.” The store has been purchased by Brookies Rural Traders, a leading family owned and local provider of produce, pet, hardware and saddlery services in Brookfield. They will take over from 7th August 2023. “Brookies Rural Traders has a longstanding commitment to supporting acreage dwellers and have a strong focus on customer satisfaction and choice, with a comprehensive range of products,” Alan said. CEO of Brookies Rural Traders, Damien Effeney said that under the new ownership, Gleam O’Dawn will continue to operate with the current team of employees with the added benefits of Brookies Rural Traders extensive resource and marketing expertise. “We want to assure all of Gleam O’Dawn’s valued customers that the acquisition by Brookies Traders will only strengthen our commitment to providing the highest quality products for your animals and your property,” he said. Gleam O’Dawn were one of the original advertisers of this newspaper back in 1977. We are very grateful for their support over the years. We wish Alan and Louise all the best as they put their feet up and enjoy the sleep ins. Thank you - we will miss your friendly, knowledgeable service.