Coles Victoria Park butcher Paul Dyson returns to where he started his apprenticeship as a teenager.
Camera IconColes Victoria Park butcher Paul Dyson returns to where he started his apprenticeship as a teenager. Credit: Supplied/Nadia Budihardjo

Butcher returns to Vic Park after 30 years for Coles makeover

Nadia BudihardjoSouthern Gazette

AN Embleton butcher has returned to Victoria Park as a familiar face among the large-scale refurbishment at The Park Centre.

Former Rivervale resident Paul Dyson said he completed his meat traineeship at the original Coles Victoria Park about 33 years ago.

“I was a trolley boy and they came up to me one day and offered an apprenticeship as a butcher,” he said.

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“I leave but I always come back and I’m planning on staying now.”

Coles Victoria Park unveiled refurbished features, including a 20-feet meat servery and a market-style fresh food section, at their relaunch on June 5.

West Coast Eagles defender Jeremy McGovern with Victoria Park Raiders Junior Football Club members April Robertson and Sarah Lynn Batten. Nadia Budihardjo
Camera IconWest Coast Eagles defender Jeremy McGovern with Victoria Park Raiders Junior Football Club members April Robertson and Sarah Lynn Batten. Nadia Budihardjo Credit: Supplied/Supplied

The Cloverdale Primary School alumni said he had experienced the transition from butchers being stuck within four walls to being part of a team.

“Years ago, that’s the way it was, the butchers were locked in a room,” he said.

“It’s just changed so much and it changes all the time.”

West Coast Eagles defender Jeremy McGovern and Masterchef alumni Michael Weldon attended the Coles Victoria Park relaunch.