CHARLEVILLE shopkeeper Debbie Schouten has closed up for the final time.
After four decades, trading as Schouten’s Store, Debbie Schouten has decided to call it a day after failing to sell the Alfred Street business.
“I am a little bit sad but happy as well,” she says whilst looking forward to a much-deserved rest from the seven-days-a-week operation. “I’ve had a lot of customers that’s been here for the long haul. I’ve seen kids grow from children to adults, so it is a bit sad to see it closing after 40 years.”
Since 1986, Debbie and her late husband Len sold everything from basic grocery lines to cold drinks, newspapers, magazines, crafts and more.
Schouten’s Store was especially well known locally for selling ‘slush puppies’ which proved a massive hit with younger customers.
“I thought when I first got the machine, I’d be able to close it down over winter but no, it sells all through winter, as well as summer,” she says.
“I’d like to thank all my customers that have supported us over the years. I’ll miss ’em but life goes on.”
PHOTO: Charleville’s Debbie Schouten outside Schouten’s Store yesterday afternoon before locking up for the final time.
POSTED: Wednesday, July 1, 2026