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Highlands Certified™ - Mrs Oldbucks Pantry Berrima
- Sweet Release
- Oct 6
- 3 min read
We are thrilled to announce that Mrs Oldbucks Pantry, a beloved icon of Berrima, has officially joined the Highlands Certified™ family at The Real Homosexuals of the Southern Highlands!
For decades, Mrs Oldbucks has been a destination where locals and visitors alike gather to enjoy artisan teas, gourmet preserves, and a warm, welcoming experience. Now, under the leadership of Carol Brown, this historic pantry is proudly taking its legacy of hospitality further by embracing inclusivity as a core value.
“Our pantry has always been about kindness, connection, and creating a place where everyone feels at home,” says Carol Brown, Owner of Mrs Oldbucks Pantry. “To us, being inclusive isn’t just about acceptance - it’s about actively celebrating diversity and ensuring every person who walks through our doors knows they belong.”
Mrs Oldbucks Pantry’s Commitment 💜
What inclusivity means to us:
At Mrs Oldbucks Pantry, inclusivity means creating a space where every individual is seen, respected, and welcomed - no matter who they are or who they love.
“Inclusivity is about empathy, openness, and care,” Carol shares. “It’s about listening, learning, and recognising that true inclusion is an ongoing commitment. That’s why it’s reflected in everything we do, from the way we serve our customers to how we support our team and local partners.”
The pantry’s philosophy goes beyond customer service - it’s about weaving inclusivity into the very fabric of the Southern Highlands community.
How we support the LGBTQI+ community:
Mrs Oldbucks Pantry is committed to standing proudly with the LGBTQI+ community through spirit and action:
Safe and welcoming space: The Berrima store is designed to feel warm, friendly, and respectful - a place where all are invited to slow down, connect, and enjoy.
Community support: Carol and her team are excited to join local Highlands initiatives that celebrate diversity, joy, and equality.
Visibility and allyship: Their platforms, both in-store and online, amplify messages of inclusion and acceptance.
Local collaboration: Mrs Oldbucks partners with makers and small businesses who share their values of equality and care.
“Every cup of tea shared, every smile exchanged, every story told - these small moments help build a more connected world,” Carol reflects. “We want our pantry to be a place where people feel seen, safe, and celebrated.”
We couldn’t agree more. Mrs Oldbucks Pantry has long been a gathering place in the Highlands - and now, by standing visibly with the LGBTQI+ community, it’s making an even greater impact.
Visit them online here:
Join the Movement 🌈
Highlands Certified™ is about visibility, celebration, and connection. We’re building a network of local businesses who want to show their support, uplift the LGBTQI+ community, and proudly stand as allies. With 50+ businesses already certified – including The Office Bowral, The Bundanoon Hotel, The Royal Hotel Bowral, EveryDay Better+ Gyms, Nursing Your Way, Soirée Cabaret Productions, and now Mrs Oldbucks Pantry - the movement is only growing stronger.
What Highlands Certified™ Means 🌟
Being Highlands Certified™ is more than just a sticker on a window – it’s a statement of values. It means a business has pledged to:
Champion inclusivity and create safe spaces for LGBTQI+ people and allies.
Stand in solidarity with our community across the Southern Highlands and beyond.
Celebrate diversity through action, not just words.
Certified businesses receive a Highlands Certified™ Window Decal, a feature in our online Business Directory, a spotlight article (like this one!), and social media promotion across our channels. Many also choose to offer exclusive member discounts and perks - giving our community even more reason to connect, visit, and support.
👉 Is your business ready to step up, stand proud, and be celebrated?
Nominate your business today and join Highlands Certified™ here:
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