After a decade as the style council and gift haven of Mount Isa, the legendary Bella Duck store says goodbye this Saturday.
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In its half-empty shop front today you can still see some treasures on sale, up to half price.
Under the words ‘CIAO BELLA’ spelt out in balloons, devoted owner Liza Graham reflects on what has been ‘a very difficult decision’.
“I have been very lucky to have had amazing staff and fabulous customers mostly whom I call friends,” Ms Graham said.
“After the sale had fallen through, I had to put myself and family first – so the decision was made to close the Duck.”
The prospective buyers of Bella Duck had trouble securing a loan to take on the business, she said.
It comes as several other luxury stores close their doors, but Ms Graham said the move has nothing to do with the local economy.
“I believe if a business is to survive, it has to accommodate what is happening around it,” she said.
“Over the past 10 years, the Duck has changed to adjust to the highs and lows of the local economy, and the many elections of prime ministers – I think it's eight in 10 years. But I am proud to say we go out on a high.”
On the wall is a series of photographs depicting the store’s evolution through the ages, starting with its original 1932 incarnation as the Bank of New South Wales.
“It was moved from a mining town near Cloncurry, and brought here to the corner of Miles Street,” Ms Graham said.
Ms Graham believes her hometown to be a city of opportunity for those who seek it out.
“Having been born here in Mount Isa, I am proud to say this is a fabulous city with so much opportunity,” she said.
"It's a city that will give you a go if you choose to work hard and listen to the local people around you. I want to leave on a positive note. Please be grateful and support what you have in Mount Isa.”
Thankfully for fans of the Duck, Ms Graham is passing her favourite brands to her favourite locals.
“I have always believed that being in retail is to please your customer, so I have decided to share my brands with my friends in business,” she said.
“Most of the customers’ favourite brands will still be available at other shops in town, just not at the Duck."
It is not goodbye forever, though, as Ms Graham plans to remain in Mount Isa for a few years yet.
Neighbouring coffee saviours at Caffeine Nook are looking at relocating in Mount Isa, but the new address is to be confirmed.