By Shelby Brooks
In October, after almost four decades, Greg and Ann Harry finished up their time at the Gembrook Post Office.
Ann and Greg had run the business since 1986 when they first moved to town.
“We were made to feel comfortable in town immediately, even though we never had anything to do with it before that,” Greg said.
“The people are fantastic and Gembrook has such a good vibe. It’s the city without being the city. Gembrook is Melbourne’s country cousins.“
The post office has changed premises three times during Ann and Greg’s ownership, beginning in a 2mx3m office when there were only 200 houses and 100 post boxes.
“Now we’re in a large shop overwhelmed with parcels and have 1400 houses and 600 post boxes,” Greg said.
But more than just a postal service, Greg and Ann provided the rural community a point of connection for 36 years.
“Through the post office we’d hear if someone was unwell so we’d organise working bees and cakes- we’re the conduit for the town,“ Greg said.
“Ann and I feel it’s been such a privilege to serve the town and take on the responsibility of everyone banking and therefore knowing everyone’s business.”
Ann agreed.
“I’ve loved getting involved in the community and with the local families,” Ann said.
“It’s been so rewarding knowing each individual family and the births, deaths and marriages they go through as part of their families.”
Greg said he thought Gembrook and Cockatoo’s parcel delivery had increased 10 fold in recent years.
“We hadn’t caught onto online shopping before the pandemic,” Greg said.
“The town has totally embraced online shopping.”
