E J Shaw & Son, a longstanding landmark in Mona Vale, closed permanently on Christmas Eve, ending 90 years of service to the local community and construction industry.
Decades of Local Service
Founded in 1933, E J Shaw & Son had been a cornerstone for builders and landscapers in Mona Vale and surrounding areas. Maurie Segedin, who owned the business since the late 1970s, said the decision to close was prompted by his age and the challenges of running a land-intensive operation in an area with skyrocketing property values.
Mr Segedin recalled buying the business from its original owners, Eddie and John Shaw, transforming it from a struggling operation into a thriving enterprise. He emphasised the importance of quality and customer service in building its reputation, saying that customers always received first-class materials and support from his team.
Community Farewell
On the morning of the final day of operations, Mr Segedin was greeted by a surprise gathering of family, staff, customers, and competitors. Builders and local business owners took time off to bid him farewell, underscoring the business’s deep ties within the community. Mr Segedin noted that seeing such support and recognition for the business’s contributions over the years was heartwarming.
He expressed gratitude for the loyalty of his customers and staff, adding that the business had always prioritised relationships with the local industry. Despite offers to take over operations, he explained that the value of the land made it impractical to continue running a sand and landscape supplies yard in its current location.
Challenges Over the Years
The business faced significant hurdles during its decades of operation. Mr Segedin recounted legal battles with Warringah and later Pittwater Council, which sought to restrict trading. These disputes required years of persistence and substantial legal expenses but did not deter him from maintaining compliance and keeping the business afloat.
Another long-standing issue was the vandalism of a historic sculpture, “Peter and the Bullock,” which had been a local feature in front of the property. The sculpture, depicting an Aboriginal man and a bullock-drawn cart, was eventually removed following repeated acts of vandalism and theft. Mr Segedin noted the cultural and historical significance of the piece, which was tied to a 1930s photograph and a community heritage study.
With the closure of E J Shaw & Son, the fate of the five residential-sized lots occupied by the business remains uncertain. The land, bounded by Pittwater Road, Jenkins Street, and Elimatta Road, is likely to attract interest for redevelopment, though no formal plans have been announced.
Published 2-Jan-2024
