Flame Tree volunteers Lizzie Rose, left, and Jane Caldwell prepare for the co-op to double in size. Picture: KEN ROBERTSON
Two years ago, organisers of a meeting to gauge public interest in a food co-op in Thirroul set out 10 chairs.
Those chairs were quickly filled as almost 80 people turned up to show their interest for what became Flame Tree community food co-op.
Since then, Flame Tree has continued to grow, with more than 500 members and a move to new premises later this month.
Lizzie Rose, one of the co-op directors, has been there since that first crowded meeting. She is pleased with the way the Thirroul community has taken to the project.
"We're pretty thrilled there's been so much community support and that was apparent right from the start, from that first meeting," she said.
"We've basically outgrown our current little co-op and the good news is that we're moving, but not far away. We're moving literally up the other end of the laneway, but we've now got a shopfront."
The co-op sells a range of products to members and casual shoppers, and the fresh food is sourced within the Illawarra.
"The fruit and veg comes from Dapto Community Farms but there are also people who grow locally who come in with their lemons or avocados that we sell by donation," Mr Rose said.
"With the bigger shop we're looking to grow the fresh food side of things now that we've got more space.
"So we're looking to approach more local growers and really boost that side of things."
The new store at 1/374 Lawrence Hargrave Drive, Thirroul, opens on October 18. On October 20, there will be an official opening from 2pm, featuring musicians, wine tasting and organic chai tea.