Canberra is losing a piece of its history. After nearly a century of serving the capital, Cusack’s Furniture is closing its doors. The decision, announced this week by brothers David and John Cusack, isn’t driven by financial hardship, but by a deliberate choice to end the business on their own terms, a sentiment deeply rooted in the family’s legacy. This marks the end of an era for one of the city’s oldest businesses, a fixture for generations of Canberrans seeking quality furniture and personalized service.
The story of Cusack’s is inextricably linked to the growth of Canberra itself. Founded in 1928 by Arthur Cusack, the business initially operated as a general store before focusing on furniture. It weathered the challenges of the Great Depression, World War II, and the evolving tastes of a growing city. The current generation, David and John, represent the third generation to lead the company, and they’ve carefully considered the future before arriving at this decision. The brothers emphasize that the closure isn’t a surrender to market forces, but a conscious step taken while the business remains strong. “It’s a privilege to have carried on Dad and Grandad’s legacy for so long,” John Cusack told Region Canberra. “But we’re both getting to that age where we want to enjoy life a bit more.”
A Family Tradition, Carefully Considered
The decision to close wasn’t made lightly. David and John Cusack spent considerable time discussing the future of the business, weighing the demands of ownership against their desire for a different pace of life. They own the building on Bunda Street, a prime location in Civic, and considered selling the business to an external party. Though, they ultimately decided against it, wanting to ensure the Cusack’s name and reputation weren’t diluted. “We didn’t want to see someone else come in and change what we’ve built,” David Cusack explained to The Canberra Times. “It’s important to us that the name remains synonymous with quality and service.”
This commitment to quality and service has been a hallmark of Cusack’s for decades. The store has always prided itself on offering a curated selection of furniture, often sourced from Australian manufacturers. Customers weren’t just buying furniture; they were receiving personalized advice and building relationships with the Cusack brothers themselves. This personal touch, increasingly rare in today’s retail landscape, has been a key differentiator for the business. The store’s longevity is a testament to the loyalty it fostered within the Canberra community.
More Than Just a Furniture Store
The closure of Cusack’s is being felt beyond its immediate customer base. The business has been a long-standing supporter of local charities and community events. It’s also provided employment for generations of Canberrans. The impact of its departure is a reminder of the role small businesses play in shaping the character of a city. As The Canberra Times notes, the closing isn’t just about one business; it reflects the broader changes Canberra has undergone over the past century.
The decision to close also comes at a time of significant change for the retail sector. The rise of online shopping and large-format furniture stores has created a challenging environment for independent retailers. While Cusack’s has adapted to some extent, the brothers acknowledge that the landscape has become increasingly competitive. However, they maintain that their decision isn’t a response to these challenges, but rather a proactive choice to retire while the business is still thriving.
A Century of Service Draws to a Close
Cusack’s Furniture has been a constant presence in Canberra for nearly a century, witnessing the city’s transformation from a small town to a thriving capital. The business has furnished countless homes, offices, and public spaces, becoming an integral part of the city’s fabric. The brothers are planning a final sale to clear out remaining stock, offering customers one last opportunity to acquire a piece of Canberra’s history. The store is expected to close its doors permanently in early February 2024, according to Sky News Australia.
The future of the Bunda Street building remains uncertain. The Cusack brothers haven’t yet made any decisions about its sale or redevelopment. Whatever the future holds, the legacy of Cusack’s Furniture will endure as a reminder of a bygone era of personalized service, quality craftsmanship, and a deep connection to the Canberra community. The brothers are proud of what they’ve built and grateful for the support they’ve received over the years.
As the final chapter of Cusack’s Furniture draws to a close, the brothers are looking forward to enjoying a well-deserved retirement. They plan to spend more time with family and pursue personal interests. The official closing date is set for February 9th, 2024, providing a definitive end to a remarkable 96-year run. Further details regarding the final sale will be announced in the coming weeks.
The closure of Cusack’s Furniture serves as a poignant reminder of the changing face of retail and the importance of preserving local businesses. It’s a loss for Canberra, but also a celebration of a family’s dedication and a legacy built on quality, service, and a genuine connection to the community. We invite readers to share their memories of Cusack’s Furniture in the comments below.
