Galina and Mark Gershkov 35 years at Dandenong Market

Last week, we said a humble goodbye to loyal traders Galina and Mark Gershkov from C17/18 who will be closed their business on Friday 30 September.

Trading at Dandenong Market for 35 years, Galina and her family originally moved from Russia to Australia in 1977 to start a better life.

While Galina was working in an underwear factory, she decided to open a casual stall at Dandenong Market selling thermal garments she purchased at cost from the factory. She even encouraged her boss to move from cotton blend to high quality, affordable Australian wool thermal. Galina would sell the range at the Market: he would export overseas.
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Seeing many changes in the Market along with the growing clientele, Galina has loved trading at Dandenong Market especially the lovely bond she has formed with her customers who travel long distances for her thermal underwear, bringing many family and friends with them.

“The biggest change I have seen is the people,” Galina said with fondness. “Children of parents are now shopping with me.”

She has also had customers return to ask if she’s selling the same item they purchased from her 15, 20 even 30 years ago. “That’s how good the quality is,” Galina laughs. ”I have always been very proud of the product I have sold.”

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You can read more about Mark and Galina’s story on ABC News here

Or listen in to the ABC Radio interview with Rafael Epstein here