When Rebecca Moore walked into the Kyneton post office after being named one of Australia Post’s 2022 Local Business Heroes, everyone clapped and cheered.
They were “thrilled” to learn her business, Tea of Earth, was recognised for its special role in the community – it was the Kyneton Post Office postal manager Joanne Garreffa who nominated her.
Ms Moore’s business was one of 57 chosen out of nearly 1000 entrants, with each recipient set to receive a Heroes Package of up to $5000 cheaper postage and packaging, mentoring, advertising in local post offices and a mail-out of postcards.
“I’m very humbled by it, and it was great to get that recognition within my local community,” Ms Moore said.
“Even to be nominated was such a thrill for me.”
Ms Moore’s beloved tea shop has been kicking since 2017, but like many businesses suffered major blows when the pandemic struck, so she pivoted online.
Ms Garreffa said she nominated Tea of Earth because she thought the mentoring support offered through the award package would help Ms Moore and boost the business.
“Her products are amazing – I drink them and always buy them at the local shops – I even gave them as Christmas presents last year,” Ms Garreffa said.
“Rebecca is always so thankful and appreciative of our support for her.”
Ms Moore said during Covid, her local post office became “that friendly face”.
“Because it was really the only contact during lockdown… they were so supportive and so caring there that it just made everything easier for me,” she said.
