THERE is a lot happening at SRS Benetook Farm.
The Sunraysia Residential Services Inc enterprise has recently opened a general store, installed a jumping pillow and hopes to soon open a cafe.
General store and market co-ordinator Tegan Pyke said the property is becoming quite the “tourist attraction” with all of the upgrades and changes.
“There is so much imagination and effort that goes into it and it is always evolving,” she said.
“With so many dampeners this year due to lockdowns, the new developments (at SRS Benetook Farm) are a real positive (for Mildura).”
The general store, which is open on Tuesday and Thursday, gives SRS participants and other local makers an opportunity to display and sell a wide range of handmade items.
“If you ever get stuck for a gift, this is the place to get one,” Ms Pyke said.
“There is upscaled and restored furniture, clothing, home decor and handmade crafts.”
Ms Pyke said the talent in Sunraysia was extraordinary.
One person who has chosen the store to showcase his talent is Doug Rootsey, who with partner Margaret Dunlop owns Mallee Scrollsawing Gallery.
The pair have a range of handmade wooden items available, from clocks to cars to jigsaw puzzles.
“Doug normally works in the Northern Territory this time of year but has been unable to return so has used his spare time to create a range of things from wood,” Ms Dunlop said.
The general store has also provided a place for SRS participants to enhance their skill set with many working the till and working with customers.
“They have strengthened their skills and gives them a sense of value, they also really enjoy it,” Ms Pyke said.
“They have also enjoyed the new jumping pillow and sandpit boat both installed over the past few days.
“The participants have really loved it, you can hear their laughter from everywhere.”
Next on the list of new attractions to open on the farm is the Mildura Historical Cafe and a pottery shed.
The pottery shed is awaiting the arrival of a kiln, while the cafe is waiting for final approval from Mildura Council.
