General News
25 December, 2024
Fairytale wonderland thriving
Since opening in November last year, The Forbidden Forest has been thriving, with “thousands” of visitors exploring the wonders of the Forest.
Owners Shane and Kylie Harman ensured their store was open before the busy Christmas period, as they wanted to provide both Dimboola locals and travellers with an extra avenue for their Christmas shopping.
“The store has been wonderfully supported by the local community as well as visitors,” Mr Harman said.
The fairy-tale themed wonderland has attracted people of all ages, bringing back childhood memories and drawing in locals and travellers, who are looking for something out of the ordinary.
“We have consistent business throughout the day,” Mr Harman said.… regular customers from in and around the Wimmera, they have also welcomed long-distance visitors from around Australia, branching from Tasmania, Queensland and everywhere in between.
“We often speak to Adelaide-Melbourne travellers, who have now made Dimboola their permanent rest-stop,” Mr Harman said.
Even overseas travellers have found themselves wandering into the store.
On top of an already expansive gift range, The Forest delights through its old-time sundaes, 'Forbidden' thickshake and spider varieties, and numerous confectionery favourites, all found in Hansel and Gretel’s 'Candy Haus'.
“There always seems to be someone floating about, even during quiet times, looking for that special gift or a treat for themselves,” Mr Harman said.
Neighbouring Dimboola business owners have been promoting The Forbidden Forest in their own ways, from referring customers to assisting Mr and Mrs Harman with signage and getting in touch with people.
“All businesses have been a great support with both spreading the word and sending business our way,” he said.
“We are very fortunate to have such supportive and close-nit business relationships in this town.”
The store continuously develops with the Gingerbread House Dining Booth, Santa’s Secret Workshop and The Steampunk Stand being some of the newest additions.
The Forbidden Forest prides itself on providing a haven for all ages, with gifts for all ages and treats to ignite the imagination.
Try a Banana Split Thickshake, a Root Beer Spider or a Little Red’s Basket Sundae, and if you’re looking for a gift and can’t decide, you can opt for a Forbidden Forest Gift Voucher.
The Forbidden Forest is open from Thursday to Saturday, 10am to 5pm, and Sunday, 10am to 3pm.
