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A long-time staple of Figtree Grove, Lowes is a one stop shop for everyone. The brand is owned and operated by one family for over 120 years and is an Australian icon. Not only does Lowes stock a wide range of menswear and workwear, but also offers school uniforms, formalwear and even dog accessories (including the cutest little coats!). There are three ranges of menswear including Big Mens, Classic Mens and younger men’s fashion.

There’s a familiar face that you’ve probably seen at Lowes Figtree for over 12 years – Store Manager Manuela. A Wollongong local and registered Justice of the Peace, Manuela says that top customer service and great staff are what sets the store apart. Many of the customers are regulars, who keep coming back for that good old-fashioned personal service. Manuela is fluent in Italian and loves having a chat to his Italian customers. The Lowes team is comprised of staff from different backgrounds and ages, which is perfect for interacting with a wide variety of customers. We quizzed Manuela on what he loves about living in the Illawarra. His reply? “Our area has everything and there’s something for everyone with the beaches, mountains, work and recreation”.

A favourite at the moment are Lowes Classic and Slim Fit Suits. An affordable (yet stylish) option for any special occasion, formalwear is popular range in the Figtree store. There are dress pants and buttoned tops for children too. As the cooler months approach, Manuela also says that dog coats have been flying off the shelves. The new Autumn/Winter range (for humans!) is in store now – we recommend a visit to stock up on those winter warmers for the cooler days ahead.

Operating in Figtree Grove for over 20 years, Figtree Eyecare is a well-established destination for all your optical needs. It is family owned with a mother, uncle and two sisters all involved in the business. From bulk billed eye tests for adults and children to stylish frames and contact lenses, the store caters for all eyecare needs. The experienced optometrists can also undertake visual screening for Ocular Diabetes, Cataract and Glaucoma diagnosis and monitoring, plus provide laser surgery referrals for customers.

A familiar face for many locals, store manager Adam has been working at Figtree Eyecare for over 20 years. He grew up in Figtree, attended Figtree Primary School and Figtree High School. We asked Adam what he loves most about living in Wollongong. His answer? “Wollongong is God’s country. It’s got the ocean and mountains, plus Sydney or the South Coast is only an hour’s drive away”. We have to agree with you there! When he’s not working, Adam enjoys being involved in the local community. A keen touch footy player, he has been playing with the Wollongong Touch Association for over 20 years. In summer, Adam volunteers his time as an age manager for Corrimal Surf Life Saving Club.

In recent months, you may have noticed a small change with the store now partnering with Australian optical company George and Matilda. Their aim is to connect independent optometrists all across Australia.

Now that end of financial year is fast approaching, Adam would like to remind all customers whose health fund runs on a financial year calendar to “use it or lose it”. Pop in to get your eye test done, update your frames or stock up on those contact lenses. The store is also running a special offer with some selected frames complimentary and half price contact lenses.

Next time you’re at Figtree Grove, pop into the store and meet Adam and team.