Meet Deb – Owner of Kitten Vintage Mackay
Hello, I’m Deb Clark, the heart behind Kitten Vintage Mackay — part vintage shop, part café, part community hub here on Queensland’s tropical coast. I’ve always believed that a home doesn’t need to be filled with brand-new things to feel special. The character, craftsmanship, and stories behind vintage pieces have been my passion for as long as I can remember, and sharing them with others is what makes this little shop so joyful.
When you walk through our doors, you’ll find more than furniture, glassware, or china. You’ll find memories, conversations, and probably a cat curled up somewhere it shouldn’t be. I love helping people discover the right piece for their home, whether it’s a teacup that sparks nostalgia or a sideboard that will anchor a whole room.
I’ve also recently completed the manuscript of my first book, Vintage Is the New Green — a practical guide to decorating sustainably with vintage finds, combining years of shopkeeping experience with personal stories and a love of giving old things another life. I’m currently working towards publication and can’t wait to share it with you
Until then, you’ll find me in the shop, on social media @kittenvintagemackay, or at the counter with the kettle on. Come in for a cuppa, a chat, and maybe your next favourite story.
The Story of Kitten Vintage
Kitten Vintage Mackay opened in November 2016 in just one little room of the former Walker’s Foundry office building on Harbour Road, North Mackay. What began as my love of vintage furniture and giving old things a second life has gradually grown to fill more than fourteen rooms, each with its own character and collection of treasures.
Along the way, the shop has become a little meeting place, with regular gatherings, workshops and friendships that began across the counter. Some of my earliest customers are now among my closest friends. Almost ten years later, I’m still discovering wonderful old things, learning their history and finding them new homes. And I can’t imagine doing anything else!
Kitten Vintage Mackay is a treasure trove full of memories. You really need to visit to get the full experience. There are over twelve rooms of vintage treasures and furniture, including an Art Deco room, a Dress room, a Sunken Lounge , a gentleman's style Map Room, Grandma’s Kitchen and our new Natural History Nook.
Why visit Kitten Vintage Mackay?
I love what I do!
My aim is to give new life to old treasures. All our vintage is sourced from the local region, helping the local economy and saving on transport costs.
I do have a wish list if you’re looking for a specific item, and I always keep my eyes open for that elusive treasure!
Kitten Vintage is pretty much a one woman business, although my husband Peter now helps me in the shop most days, and makes Mackay’s best coffee. He’s also our delivery driver and furniture mover, and occasionally polishes the silver (which he loves!)
And did I mention the shop cats, Pip and Biscuit? Usually up for a pat.
If you are in Mackay, please pop in and say hi!
