A much-loved Newcastle sustainability hub will close its retail doors this month, as the organisation behind it refocuses its energy following the devastating diagnosis of one of its co-founders.
The Full Circle Collective (TFFC) announced its Hunter Street space will cease trading on 28 March, after Thomas Michel was recently diagnosed with a terminal brain tumour.
The not-for-profit group, which operates a circular economy retail and community outlet, has spent the past two years championing sustainable living and grassroots environmental action across the Hunter.
In a statement shared with supporters, the team says the difficult decision to close the storefront was made so they could focus on continuing their broader community projects while supporting Mr Michel through his illness.
“Thomas is a wildly passionate and enthusiastic changemaker and has provided TFCC with a powerful injection of energy and direction since joining the team nearly two years ago,” TFFC said.
Rather than stepping away quietly, Mr Michel will embrace the time he has left with purpose and positivity.
Over the weekend, he married his partner in a celebration described by the team as a reflection of his determination to “squeeze as much life out of the time he has left”.
While the news has deeply affected the organisation, the team says Mr Michel remains their “cheerleader and sounding board”.
Since opening its doors in Newcastle’s CBD, the collective’s retail has grown into a vibrant hub for sustainable living, supporting more than 60 local creatives, social enterprises and small businesses who share a commitment to environmental responsibility.
Through repair initiatives, resource recovery projects and reuse programs, the organisation aims to make sustainable choices easier and more accessible for the local community.
Despite the closure of the physical space, the organisation says its mission is far from over.
Behind the scenes, the team’s currently working on six active community projects, with another three initiatives awaiting approval.
Each will focus on empowering local communities to take practical, grassroots action on environmental issues.
“These projects are incredibly important to us,” the team said.
“We want to continue giving them the time and energy they deserve.”
The decision to close the retail space will allow the staff to concentrate on those initiatives and ensure the organisation’s long-term impact continues.
For many in Newcastle’s sustainability community, the shop represented more than just a retail space as it has been a platform for collaboration and local innovation.
“It’s been a powerful way for us to support a thriving community of over 60 local creatives, make sustainable living more accessible, and inspire hundreds of community members to make small changes that collectively create a huge impact,” TFCC said.
“We are deeply proud of what we have built together.”
Supporters are being encouraged to visit the store one last time before it closes.
The final day of trade will be Saturday 28 March from 10am to 2pm.
For more community stories:
- Viv Allanson OAM named Charlestown’s Local Woman of the Year
- Broadmeadow offers fresh start for disengaged teens
- Newcastle plant operator ranks sixth in the world
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