Remembering, Shirley Greenhalgh, 98, matriarch of Avenell Bros.

The matriarch of the family behind one of Bundaberg’s most iconic businesses is being remembered as an “icon” after she died just days after Christmas.

Shirley Greenhalgh.

A beloved figure in Bundaberg’s business and cultural history is being mourned after she died just days after Christmas.

Shirley Greenhalgh, the 98-year-old matriarch of Avenell Bros., died on Saturday morning, December 28.

The announcement was shared on Avenell Bros.’ Facebook page, where the family wrote: “On Saturday morning the 98-year-old matriarch of Avenell Bros., our beloved Shirley, quietly passed away.
“You will be greatly missed, but your legacy will live on,” the post read.

Joann Warburton said, “Your mother was a Bundaberg icon everyone loved and admired. May she rest in peace knowing how she influenced so many Bundaberg residents”.

Kay Be wrote, “She was an actual icon and a significant part of Bundaberg’s landscape”.

“I doubt there would be many homes in the city that did not have a much-loved jewel or two, lovingly selected from the glorious treasure trove of Avenell Brothers,” Kay wrote.

David Black shared, “We enjoyed talking and listening to her wealth of knowledge of the earlier days of Bundaberg”.
Shirley’s connection to Avenell Bros. was more than business — it was a lifelong passion.
She revived and safeguarded her grandfather Frederic William Avenell’s legacy when she, along with her family, purchased the business in 1977.
Under her leadership, the store became renowned for its fine collectibles and cultural significance, hosting exhibitions and events that celebrated art, craftsmanship, and community.

Shirley Greenhalgh.

Avenell Bros. was originally founded by Frederic William Avenell in 1913 in partnership with his brother, Albert Edward Avenell, a former mayor of Bundaberg.

The business grew out of a corner shop established in 1875 by G. J. Young, a visionary who developed a grand two-storey premises on the corner of Bourbon and Targo Streets in 1888.

Frederic began his career at age 10 working for Mr. Young and later took over the business, navigating it through the world wars.
Avenell Bros. expanded and adapted over the years, becoming a mainstay of Bundaberg’s commercial scene.

The store became renowned for its exclusive product lines, including fine china and local souvenir wares, which remain cherished collectibles to this day.
Despite challenges like the closure of its piano department during WWI and the scaling back of operations during WWII, the business continued to thrive under Frederic’s daughters, Iris and Edna, after his passing in 1958.

GARDEN PARTY: Shirley Greenhalgh at the Winterfeast Sunday Soiree in the Fairymead House gardens.

In 1938, Frederic purchased the iconic building at 96 Bourbong Street, vowing never to move again. The site became the heart of Avenell Bros., offering homewares, collectibles, and stationery.
When Shirley and her family purchased Avenell Bros. in 1977, she brought a renewed vision to the business.
Her stewardship transformed the store into a hub for collectors and art enthusiasts, hosting events like a Bohemia Crystal exhibition and visits from Michael Doulton, a celebrated figure in the world of fine collectibles.

Shirley’s commitment to preserving the history of Avenell Bros. ensured its story remained alive in Bundaberg. Her influence extended beyond the store, connecting generations to the community’s rich heritage.

Four generations: Frederick William Avenell, with granddaughter Shirley Greenhalgh (standing, left), Elsie McWatters and Shirley's son John Greenhalgh, who now runs Avenell Bros.

A service celebrating Shirley’s life and achievements will be held at Christ Church Anglican Church, Bundaberg, on Tuesday, January 7, at 11am.