Where it all began: launching our community shops

The very first MS Plus Community Shop opened in Tecoma, Victoria in the early 1970s, started by local fundraising group, the Sherbrook Auxiliary for MS. The auxiliary was started by Julia Mosley, who was inspired to support the MS community after the father of a close friend was diagnosed with MS at age 60.     

'I was deeply affected, as the family were very special to me. I wanted to do something but had no idea how or what,' Julia said.     

Julia eventually contacted the Executive Director of what was then MS Victoria, John Foley, who gave Julia the guidelines for establishing an auxiliary. Julia and the Sherbrooke Auxiliary for MS began hosting fundraising events but soon realised that the events alone wouldn’t be able to reach every potential fundraiser.     

'I felt we were missing out on engaging many more people who did wish to help but couldn’t make it to an evening or affordable fundraising dinner. I have always loved op shops and it occurred to me that if we could establish some shops that were presented well and also engaged local craft makers and other groups, we would be successful.'

The first shop in Tecoma was such a success MS Chairman at the time, Sir Louis Pike asked Julia to join MS Victoria and establish more shops. Two years later, Julia began working with the organisation, then located in Riversdale Road, Camberwell. During her time there, Julia and MS Victoria would go on to establish a further 10 MS community shops.     

'It was a great time to be working with MS Victoria, who were busy establishing the MS Readathon and many other successful fundraising initiatives.    

'The community shops are such an important part of how MS Plus help people living with MS and I am proud to have been a part of their history,' Julia said.     

Julia is currently the CEO and co-founder of Youth Education Support Inc., a charity helping disadvantaged young people with their education. www.yesinc.com.auopens in new tab     

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Pictured below: Then Northcote Mayor, Cr Russell Badham opens the MS Community Shop in Fairfield with Julia Mosley in the 1970s.