It is the end of an era for Louise and Dennis McMahon, who are retiring after 22 years of providing Gerringong with fresh fruit and vegetables.

The pair have been operating out of their home garage as the village’s greengrocer since 2004, and 26 May will be their last day.

“We have based our business on selling the freshest Australian produce, and that’s what people want,” says Louise, who grew up in her parent’s fruit and vegetable shop on Manning St.

“Greengrocers buy from their agents direct from the farm at a fair price to farmers. Nothing we have, even on a Friday, is older than five days from harvest.”

When asked what the best part of the 22 years were, Louise replied, “It’s the customers that have made it memorable.”

While talking to The Bugle, four customers came in for their weekly supply and Louise knew everything about them, from their age to their occupation and even how long they have been customers for – all of them being 20 plus years.

“We have seen so many customers that were pregnant who now have kids in university, and we have seen kids who were 3 or 4 years old now grown up and married. It’s been really lovely,” Louise says.

"Our customers have always been supportive and loyal. Without them, you don’t have a business, but you also don’t have the fun.”

Louise and Dennis have always offered their customers free delivery – which continued through COVID lockdowns. Kiama local, Rachel Edwards, says they have never missed one.

“The produce is always of amazing quality, and it is always served by a very lovely and friendly couple with fabulous customer service,” says Rachel, who has been a loyal customer for over 17 years.

The Barn has operated out of the garage on Sandy Wha Rd all these years

“The McMahons are so dedicated to what they do and have been for so long. They are a big part of the community.”

Louise says it’s now time to go out and enjoy themselves. Dennis is also excited to get his garage back.

They are kick starting their retirement with an overseas trip in August before coming home to caravan around Australia.

No special event is planned to mark the occasion as Louise says it would be too emotional.

“This is our home so we will still be here, and customers will see us around town,” she says – that’s when they aren’t travelling.