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The wait is over: Kmart Geraldton finally opens its doors at Northgate Shopping Centre

Lisa FavazzoGeraldton Guardian
Kmart district manager Michael Richardson and Geraldton store manager Cherie Williams.
Camera IconKmart district manager Michael Richardson and Geraldton store manager Cherie Williams. Credit: The Geraldton Guardian

“The customers in Geraldton have waited long enough,” proclaimed Kmart state manager Glenn Butkus, just minutes before the first pack of bargain-hungry customers rushed into the new store.

Store manager Cherie Williams had a wobble in her voice and tears in her eyes as she thanked the team who transformed the space from a Target to a Kmart in just over two weeks — a sign of a goal hard-won.

Stars Foundation and Geraldton Senior High School dance troupe Bugarr Malyu opened the ceremony with a traditional dance, and City of Greater Geraldton Councillor Steve Douglas thanked Kmart for its investment in the Mid West.

Dancers from the Stars Foundation.
Camera IconDancers from the Stars Foundation. Credit: The Geraldton Guardian

“Local spending will keep our jobs local,” he said.

“We are a city, we are growing, and we deserve (this).”

Kymani Dickerson, 2, and Gabrielle Dunstan,4, at the Kmart Geraldton store opening.
Camera IconKymani Dickerson, 2, and Gabrielle Dunstan,4, at the Kmart Geraldton store opening. Credit: Lisa Favazzo/The Geraldton Guardian, Lisa Favazzo

Mr Butkus said he was thrilled to be opening a store in a regional centre like Geraldton where people were “screaming out for a Kmart”.

“I have had more than one person tell me they don’t have to do the eight hour return trip to shop at Kmart,” he said.

Sarayah McDonald, 17, Justine Adams, Trevor Pickett, Naydine Pickett, 11.
Camera IconSarayah McDonald, 17, Justine Adams, Trevor Pickett, Naydine Pickett, 11. Credit: The Geraldton Guardian

“I think people have fallen in love with the value of our products. they are on trend-fashionable and affordable for everyone in the community.”

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