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The Speckled Hen Antiques and Collectibles celebrates 50 years restoring history in Townsville

Generations of Townsville families have walked through the doors of The Speckled Hen, perused the cabinets and baskets for what treasures are hidden inside.

Ian, Joelle and Tristan Fleming at the Speckled Hen Antiques and Collectibles which has celebrated its 50th birthday. Picture: Evan Morgan
Ian, Joelle and Tristan Fleming at the Speckled Hen Antiques and Collectibles which has celebrated its 50th birthday. Picture: Evan Morgan

Generations of Townsville families have walked through the doors of The Speckled Hen, perused the cabinets and baskets for what treasures are hidden inside.

The longstanding family business in the heart of the city has just celebrated its golden anniversary – its 50th birthday.

The Speckled Hen Antiques and Collectibles opened in Townsville on March 21, 1970 and is owned and managed by husband and wife Ian and Joelle Fleming and their son Tristan.

Originally located on Bowen Rd, the family bought their current shop site on Flinders St in 2000.

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Ms Fleming said the secret to the business’s longevity was having a customer focus.

“I never wanted my shop to be exclusive because I like people, so we get kids who come and can buy a little brooch for $2 for their mother,” she said.

“We don’t want to make millions, we just want to make enough to keep going. We try to give good value for money and it is also important to give as much as we can to the people we buy from.”

Mr and Ms Fleming have lived upstairs on the premises since 2002 after renovating the heritage-listed building.

Originally published as The Speckled Hen Antiques and Collectibles celebrates 50 years restoring history in Townsville

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Original URL: https://www.dailytelegraph.com.au/news/townsville/the-speckled-hen-antiques-and-collectibles-celebrates-50-years-restoring-history-in-townsville/news-story/e9506cd8af5f8d539081d08a5f80a8cb