About The Crew

We’re The Mend & Make Do Crew — or as we like to say, the Nerd Crew.

We’re a warm, no-nonsense, big-hearted bunch of locals doing what we do best: making sure nobody in our community goes without life’s essentials. Based in South Grafton, we’re known as one of the most organised op shops in Australia — and we’re so much more than that.

Our Story: From Humble Cuppas to a Community Lifeline

Back in 2014, our Nerd Leader Ursula Tunks started a small Facebook group sharing upcycling ideas and handmade crafts. It didn’t take long for those ideas to grow into real action.

By 2015, we became a not-for-profit incorporated association.

By 2016, we had our very own op shop and workshop space in South Grafton.

Fast forward to today — we’ve helped thousands of people across the Clarence Valley and Northern Rivers of New South Wales, and South East Queensland. Especially when disaster strikes.

Bushfires, floods, or pandemics — when our neighbours need help, we’re there with Caring Kits, practical essentials, and a warm smile.

What We Stand For

We believe everyone deserves dignity, respect, inclusion, and equity — no exceptions.

We’re here for the people who’ve slipped through the cracks: folks facing homelessness, people leaving unsafe situations, or anyone hit by life’s unexpected curveballs.

Our “Golden Rule”? No backstabbing. No nonsense. We’re family — we look after each other, always.

Our Mission & Vision

Our Mission

Ensuring human beings don't go without the essentials of life.

Our Vision

A world where everyone has access to basic necessities - and a sense of community and belonging.

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What Makes Us Different

100% Community Powered: We’re run almost entirely by local volunteers: the Nerd Crew. Every sale, every donated item, every Caring Kit delivered - it’s powered by people like you.
Real Impact, Zero Red Tape: We work directly with frontline agencies so help goes straight where it’s needed most - quickly, quietly, respectfully.
Famous Op Shop Vibes: We’re tidy, organised, and a local tourist destination. Whether you’re hunting for a vintage find or just need a cuppa and a chat, you’re welcome here.

Meet our Nerd Leader

Ursh Nerd Leader of South Grafton Social Enterprise The Mend & Make Do Crew Inc.

Ursula 'Ursh' Tunks, our founder and Nerd Leader, works side-by-side with our volunteers every day. She’s the heart and soul behind our mission, and the reason our Crew keeps showing up, rain, hail or shine.

Who We Work With

We proudly work alongside over 40 frontline agencies, community groups and local services — from women’s refuges and mental health services to community recovery hubs and schools.

Together, we help our most vulnerable neighbours get back on their feet.

Request Support for Clients

Join the Nerd Crew

Ready to roll up your sleeves? Whether you want to volunteer in our op shop, making Caring Kits, or contribute to any of our other projects (in person or even remotely) - there’s a place for you here.

Bring a big heart and sense of humour - and we’ll supply the kettle.

Become a Volunteer

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Our Impact - By The Numbers

Essentials for homeless rough sleepers NSQ SE QLD

22,000+

Caring Kits delivered since we first began operating

#1

One of the most organised and friendly Op Shops in Australia

Support for frontline client agencies NSW SE QLD

40+

Frontline agencies and community support providers assisted

Embedded social enterprise Australia The Mend & Make Do Crew Incorporated

100%

A 100% not-for-profit, volunteer-powered, embedded model social enterprise

The Mend & Make Do Crew Inc. is also proud to be registered as a Public Benevolent Institution (PBI) with full Deductible Gift Recipient (DGR) status — meaning donations over $2 are tax deductible within Australia.

Visit Us or Get In Touch

Sheds 1 & 3
46 Through Street

South Grafton NSW 2460

Monday to Friday

08:00 AM - 04:00 PM

Saturday