End of an Era. The Wilderness Shop closing down

Neil and Mary Blundy, owners of The Wilderness Shop in Box Hill, Vic, have announced the impending closure of the business.

The well-known shopfront. Image supplied

For 43 years The Wilderness Shop has been servicing the needs of outdoor enthusiasts in Melbourne’s eastern suburbs.

Starting in modest premises in Carrington Road in 1980 before moving to our current address in Whitehorse Road in 1996, the store has been a much-loved institution, in particular for bushwalkers of all types.

Neil Working from the counter from the new shop in 1995. Image supplied

Neil and Mary wish to thank our customers, staff and suppliers for their support over all these years.

Neil and Mary in the Pyrenees. Image supplied

“I have seen young children in our shop with their parents, these children growing into adults and then bringing their own children to our shop in turn.

"There are many familiar faces. It has been quite a journey” says Neil. “We are so grateful to have shared so much with our customers over the years, in particular all the adventures and places they are going to.”

The Wilderness Shop is known for its knowledgeable and friendly staff. Image supplied.

So why are they closing?

Neil is 67 years old and is looking to lessen his workload and responsibilities. Box Hill has changed remarkably over the lifetime of the business. And there are further changes afoot.

The Wilderness shop was always well stocked. Image supplied.

Neil says it seemed the right time to divest themselves of the business and leave more space in their lives to explore the world and other interests.

They want to emphasise this is not a forced closure due to poor sales or economic problems.

Take advantage of the closing down sale! Image supplied

In fact, Neil and Mary say since the covid shutdowns the business has been stronger than ever which has made the decision doubly difficult.

They say they have been really sad to take this step. The shop reflects their personal interests, it has always catered for people just like themselves, which has made it such a joy to run and operate for nearly all our adult lives.

They will continue trading until late January next year or until our stock runs out.

Neil and Mary hope to see many familiar faces over this period. "When we opened the shop in 1980 we had no idea where it was to lead but it has turned into a lifetime's work. So to all of our customers, older and newer, we say a massive thank you!"