Sweetest solution

By Kath Gannaway
“NOT the lolly shop!” was a predictable response from children following news of the loss of so many of Marysville’s businesses.
The Old Style Lolly Shop had been a landmark, and obviously a ‘must stop’ for kids, since it opened in 1995.
The historic shop and residence was destroyed on 7 February but on 10 July, owner Julia Harris, opened the doors to her temporary shop – a worksite lunchroom she says is proving to be a great stepping stone while she awaits the rebuilding of her new shop and home.
Ms Harris said she worked until about 5pm on 7 February, quite unaware of anything sinister happening on the horizon.
When a friend came to see if she needed help, she step-ped outside to see a massive, eerie, orange cloud over the village.
“We were told to evacuate to the hotel but took one look in that direction and headed out to Alexandra,” she said.
The container lolly shop has been placed to allow the business to continue to oper-ate while the new shop is rebuilt.
She said the response from the public had been heart-warming and fantastic.
“People are making special trips up to visit again, and many are telling me their children were devas-tated,” she said.
“I feel fantastic … I loved the atmosphere of the lolly shop and meeting all the people and it’s as though it’s back to normal … only three days instead of full-time,” she added.
Marysville’s Old Style Lolly Shop is open Friday, Saturday and Sunday. Visitors very welcome!