The business has been proudly operated by Tony and Rhonda Canning since 1994 and features a unique display of artworks featuring long-time professional artist, and Tony’s father, John Canning.
John, who sadly passed away in 2022, has artworks that decorate many local premises and locations worldwide.
The popular store now boasts six rooms to browse with the most diverse range of products you would find anywhere. Three rooms boast gifts, arts and crafts and the other three include toys, games and puzzles.
Tony Canning said the store had humble beginnings when it first opened and has since undergone three renovations, the last before it incorporated Yarrawonga Fun and Games into the same building in 2020.
“When we first opened, we didn’t think we would be still here in thirty years,” Mr Canning quipped.
“Thanks to our landlords the Judd family we have evolved and renovated over time.
“Thirty years in the one shop says a lot about the diverse range of products and the service that we offer.”
Yarrawonga Fun and Games was incorporated into the same building in 2020 making this Yarrawonga's one-stop shop for gifts and toys, perfect for Christmas gifts.
From board games, puzzles and jigsaws to toys for girls, boys, and infants both educational and creative.
Canning A.R.T.S. has also become a regular place to shop for locals but also visitors to the area.
Visitors often take advantage of the wide selection of toys and games particularly those for use in water and outdoors.
Mr Canning reflected on some of the more memorable moments over the last 30 years highlighting a few milestones such as the development of the new shop front and awning in 2000.
“It was a turning point, we then added our Christmas shop in 2004 which we subsequently closed to make room for Fun and Games in 2020. We still sell a comprehensive range of Christmas products we just don’t have a dedicated store.”
Mr Canning said the COVID-19 pandemic was an interesting time.
“Having combined two stores in one and then having no customers was interesting.”
The online store has more recently been a highlight for the Cannings.
“We have an online store with four thousand products including toys, puzzles and games, which has been an important addition,” Mr Canning added.
Mr Canning thanked the local community for their support over the last thirty years along with the visitors.
“Thank you to our loyal customers, we have people who call in on a yearly basis plus our regulars are very supportive.
“We would also like to thank the wonderful staff we have had over the years most of whom stayed with us for many years,” Mr Canning said
Get down to Canning Arts and Yarrawonga Fun and Games at 51 Belmore St, Yarrawonga or call 03 5743 1099 visit their website at www.yarrawonga-fun-and-games.com.au
You could also win yourself a $3,000 holiday for shopping locally in the store before December 18.
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