Riley’s Furniture and Carpets has changed hands after 17 years, with Cath and Frank van Dorst selling the business to fellow locals Stuart and Jodi Dolbel.
Subscribe now for unlimited access.
$0/
(min cost $0)
or signup to continue reading
The Dolbels moved into the building on October 18 and the van Dorsts stayed on for a month to show them the ropes and ensure a smooth transition.
Cath and Frank are enjoying retirement and have welcomed the birth of a new grandchild, Polly, in recent weeks.
Riley’s was designed and built by Cath’s brother, David, back in 1997, who offered Gunnedah an array of furniture, floor coverings, carpet, blinds and shutters.
After two years, David sold the business to Cath and Frank who added to the diversity by stocking artwork, rugs, lamps, giftware, jewellery, scarves and handbags. The couple also added a bullnose awning to the front of the store.
Over the years, the couple have supported local schools, charities and sports events and delivered furniture as far as Yamba and Newcastle.
Cath said they were “stoked” to sell the business to Gunnedah residents and encouraged the community to shop locally to “keep the dollar in your town”.
Despite the emotion of leaving the business behind after so many years, Cath said it was in good hands and they were looking forward to doing some travelling in their newly acquired caravan.
Riley’s has seen some change since the Dolbels took over, with a merge of the store’s services with Jodi’s Enchanted Events and Balloons business and ladies’ fashion.
Clothing lines are on display in the front of the store and new counter has been installed at the back to accommodate floristry, balloons and events planning.
The store is seeing a great deal of traffic, with extra staff employed to keep up with the demand. Long-time staff are still providing their usual service across flooring, blinds and shutters.
Jodi said the new chapter gave herself, Stuart and their son, Josh, the opportunity to diversify and run a family business; something they have been searching for over a number of years.
“It’s awesome; it’s so much fun,” she said.
“Now I can stock all those beautiful things I have wanted to stock for so long.
“You can really sink your teeth into anything you love because you know it’s going to suit someone’s taste.”
Jodi said her family had received a great deal of encouragement from the community since taking over.
“People are wonderful,” she said.
“The people in Gunnedah are just so accepting and they just embrace your journey with you.
“It’s really heartening.”
