What began as a simple fundraising idea has grown into a much-loved ministry that brings people together while supporting needs both within and beyond the Bendigo community.
The Bendigo Congregation's pop-up sale traces its roots back to 2017 when then Fundraising Coordinator Kristy McIlroy built on the foundation of earlier Dollar Day sales led by Lynn Gillett. Starting with just a small collection of clothing offered for a gold coin donation, the event has steadily grown over the years. Today it includes clothing, books, DVDs, bric-a-brac, plants, and much more, drawing hundreds of visitors through its doors each year.
As the fundraiser has grown, so too has the organisation behind it. What once involved a small collection of clothing has developed into a well-organised operation supported by countless volunteers. Purpose-built shoe racks display footwear, labelled tubs keep stock organised between events, and trollies make the movement of donations and merchandise much easier. One of the most significant recent additions has been the purchase of a shipping container, now serving as a dedicated storage unit. With shelving installed and tubs carefully organised, it has become a wonderful resource that helps the team prepare for each event more efficiently.
While the sale has grown in size and organisation, its greatest strength continues to be the people behind it. Members and friends of the congregation come together before each event to sort donations, prepare displays, welcome visitors, and pack everything away afterwards. The church building is transformed through many hours of shared effort, conversation, and teamwork. For many involved, the event has become more than a fundraiser; it is a way of serving together and strengthening community.
One particularly cherished contribution comes from Ruth Semmens who, at 92 years of age, still lovingly pots plants that are sold at each event. Her dedication reflects the spirit of generosity that runs throughout the project.
The fundraiser's growing connection with the wider community has been through local newspaper advertising, neighbourhood banners, and an active Facebook presence, introducing the event to many new visitors. All this work has seen attendance across the congregation's three annual sales grow from 546 visitors in 2022 to 877 in 2025—a sign of the strong community support the ministry continues to receive.
Most importantly, the fundraiser enables the congregation to extend its ministry beyond its own walls. While some funds help support the ongoing life of the congregation, a significant portion is directed towards assisting others. Over the years, donations have supported organisations and causes including Bendigo Food Share, Sunshine Bendigo, the Salvation Army Food Pantry, Bendigo Winter Night Shelter, Dementia Australia, Samaritan's Purse, relief efforts following the Harcourt fires, and families in Fiji through the donation of clothing.
As the Bendigo Congregation looks ahead, this ministry continues to be a practical expression of discipleship: people working side by side, sharing their gifts, building relationships, and transforming generosity into ministry.
