Daylesford Community Op Shop Temporarily Closes After Bed Bug Infestation Discovery
The Daylesford Community Op Shop, located on Mink Street, has temporarily closed after a bed bug infestation was discovered on January 18. The incident, which originated from a single donation, led to the immediate closure of the shop, the discarding of thousands of dollars in inventory, and significant cleaning costs. Community fundraising efforts are underway to support the volunteer-run organization.
Incident Details and Immediate Response
On January 18, a volunteer at the Daylesford Community Op Shop discovered a bed bug infestation while opening a donated bag of cloth in a sorting area. The volunteer reported being bitten multiple times, with bed bugs observed moving onto her arm.
Following the discovery, the store was evacuated and closed within 20 minutes. Staff members who were present received remedies for skin cleaning.
Michelle Clifford, co-founder of the Daylesford Community Op Shop, expressed concern regarding the possibility of the donation being intentional, citing the presence of mature bed bugs within the donated items.
Financial and Operational Impact
The infestation resulted in the destruction of inventory valued at thousands of dollars. All soft stock, including clothes and bedding, was removed and subsequently taken to a hazardous materials tip or disposed of by a specialized cleaning company. The total losses, including cleaning and disposal fees, have been reported to exceed $15,000.
The shop is currently undergoing two hazard cleanings and two pest control treatments, a process estimated to take up to 10 days. Initial concerns about the potential for permanent closure due to the financial strain have been partially alleviated by community support. Fundraising efforts have already garnered over $11,000, and the shop is organizing a community barbecue to generate additional funds. The Daylesford Community Op Shop is scheduled to reopen in early March.
About the Daylesford Community Op Shop
The Daylesford Community Op Shop operates entirely with volunteers, and all profits generated are directed back into the local community. The shop provides low-cost clothing and operates a voucher system to assist local residents.
Expert Commentary on Bed Bugs
Entomologist Stephen Doggett notes that bed bugs are small, wingless insects known to feed on human blood and reproduce in items such as clothing and bedding. He highlighted that bed bug bites can cause prolonged itching, and scratching may lead to secondary infections. Allergic reactions, including hives, swelling, and breathing difficulties, are also possible.
Doggett further stated that bed bugs are highly resistant to insecticides, can survive for months without feeding, and often require professional pest control, which can exceed $1000.