A Thrifting Trail
Some people collect souvenirs. Others collect stories. The best finds, if you ask us, are usually found tucked between a stack of old books, hanging on a rack of vintage denim, or hiding in the corner of an op shop waiting for a second chance.
Across the Riverina, a handful of much-loved thrift stores are waiting for the avid treasure hunter to scour their shelves. So, whether you’re hunting for your next favourite outfit, retro homewares, or simply enjoy the thrill of discovery, it’s time to clear some room in the boot and hit the highway.
Inside Mon Repos Narrandera, you’ll find a curated collection of vintage furniture, books and decor, alongside handcrafted timber pieces built onsite by Scott. The blend of old and new gives Mon Repos its charm. Beautifully restored pieces sit alongside artisan furniture — both designed to last for generations.
It’s a place where craftsmanship still matters and where every piece has character. If your dream home had a Pinterest board, chances are it would shop here.
For the thrill of the unexpected, make sure Fusion is on your list. Eclectic, colourful and full of surprises, no two visits are ever the same. Half the fun is not knowing exactly what you’ll find. Run with the warmth and friendliness country op-shops are known for, it’s easy to lose track of time while browsing.
One shelf might hold vintage glassware, the next handmade pieces, retro decor, or a collector’s piece you didn’t know you needed. You might even like the shelf itself — there is plenty of furniture on offer too.
If your favourite pastime is flicking through clothing racks in search of a hidden gem, pencil in a visit to Vinnies. It’s the classic op-shop, packed with pre-loved clothing, shoes, handbags, and new pieces arriving regularly.
Of course, fashion isn’t the only attraction. Books, homewares crockery, toys and all manner of unexpected treasures fill the shelves, rewarding travellers who take the time to browse.
Known for its generous range or clothing, shoes, kitchenware, kids toys and more, the Anglican Op-Shop feels a little different each visit. One day it might be the perfect jacket, the next a pair of barely worn boots or a beautiful set of china.
Whether you’re searching for vintage denim, a designer label hiding amongst the racks or simply a wardrobe refresh that won’t break the budget, the secret to a great op-shop find is persistence. Visit often and don’t be afraid to dig.
Small in size but big on character, Excess Vintage proves that great things come in carefully curated packages. This is a stop for considered finds. One-of-a-kind pieces are thoughtfully selected, creating a shopping experience that feels more boutique than op shop.
For lovers of vintage homewares and furniture, it’s where the hard work has already been done. The treasure hunt isn’t about digging through endless racks; it’s about discovering the piece that feels like it was waiting for you all along.
For some people, ourselves included, the ultimate thrift find isn’t a vintage lamp or a retro jacket — it’s a book. Books on East blends the charm of a traditional bookstore with the thrill of second-hand discovery, offering both new and pre-loved titles.
From bestselling fiction and classic literature to travel writing, cookbooks, and children's stories, the shelves are packed with reason to linger a little longer. Second-hand selections are sprinkled throughout the store. Dog-eared favourites, out-of-print finds and unexpected discoveries sit waiting between the shelves.
The Treasure Chest
The names gives it away. Located in Barellan, The Treasure Chest isn’t the kind of place you’re likely to stumble across while scrolling online. The store is usually open on Wednesday and Friday from 10am to 2pm. Like many great op shops, it keeps a fairly low profile, making it a genuine local secret. After all, some treasures still need to be discovered the old-fashioned way.
Thrifting is more than finding a bargain. It’s about giving items a second life. In a world increasingly filled with mass-produced fast-fashion, second-hand shopping offers something refreshingly different: the possibility of finding something truly unique because no two thrift stores are ever alike.
The beauty of this trail is that there is no right way to do it. Spend a morning browsing the stores of Narrandera before heading north to Barellan, or make a day of it and pair your thrifting adventure with lunch, coffee, and a few local attractions along the way.
Just remember to leave a little extra room in the car (you’ll probably need it).