Delphine and Graham Baker hand over Home Hill Newsagency to daughter after 18-year run

After 18 years behind the counter of a small-town newsagency, a North Queensland couple have closed the doors for the last time – but there’s exciting changes to the store yet to come.

After 18 years behind the counter of a small-town newsagency, a North Queensland couple have closed the doors for the last time – but say exciting changes to the store are yet to come.

Delphine and Graham Baker grew up in Home Hill, but never expected they would one day run the Home Hill Newsagency for almost two decades.

Now, the couple have traded the early mornings for their next adventure – with their daughter Shay Linton, taking over the store.

“She was with us from day one, and to be honest, we couldn’t have done it without her … and she has been dedicated the whole time,” Ms Baker said of her daughter’s role in the business.

The store, Mrs Baker said, had been the location of many precious family memories – including watching her three grandkids grow up in the business.

Graham and Delphine Baker have passed on the keys to Home Hill Newsagency to their daughter, after 18 years behind the counter.

“They started their lives in the back office being rocked by us or staff members, and as soon as they could see above the counter, they were out serving,” she said.

Recalling the good and challenging times – including the threat of flood and the attempted robbery of the store – Mrs Baker said the community spirit had always remained strong.

“There was always someone saying ‘if you need a hand, give us a yell’,” she said.

With the store changing hands, Mrs Baker said a new addition to the business’ offering would be sure to excite both current and new customers.

“A big thing that Shay will be starting in mid October is that she will have a coffee (machine) corner,” she said.

The inspiration behind the new addition, Ms Baker said, came after customers stopped by the store looking for ‘real coffee’, and the closure of the local cafe.

While the Bakers plan to eventually travel, they’re pleased to be leaving the business in the hands of their daughter – and of long-time employee of the newsagency, Desley Rossato.

“Thank you to all our loyal customers who have always supported us, and I hope they go on to support Ken and Shay as well,” she said.

“It’s been a good ride.”

Originally published as Delphine and Graham Baker hand over Home Hill Newsagency to daughter after 18-year run