What kid hasn’t grown up wishing they worked in a lolly shop?

For most of us it was just a fantasy, but for Julie Saw, it’s very real. Working at Candy Alley, Julie must have the sweetest job at Rockingham Centre. She loves her job (who wouldn’t) and despite being surrounded by a confection of confectionery every day, manages to have a very sound philosophy on nutrition.

“A balanced diet is chocolate in both hands,” she laughs.

On a serious note - if it’s possible to be serious about sweets – Julie says there’s a lot more involved than just selling lollies.

“Candy Alley offers such a wide variety of confectionery, there’s always something that reminds a customer of their youth and sparks a conversation of childhood memories,” she said.

“Also, we have a range of sweets from around the world, so we get people coming in looking for something from home.”

“One lovely elderly couple are favourite customers of mine, they come in every week to buy a few dozen Sweet World lollipops. They gaze in amazement at the huge display and reminisce about their childhood days.

“Personally, my favourite is Peppermint Chews, they’ve been a favourite since I was a child. They have the freshness and flavour of a White Knight – so yummy!”

When she’s not at work, Julie is at the Cruising Yacht Club in Rockingham, where she has been a volunteer for forty years and a Life Member since 2012. She’s also keen to start her next hobby – painting.

But back to sweets, please. If Julie was to create a seasonal menu of candy, what would it include?

“Well, Watermelon Slices for summer, of course. Peppermint Chews for autumn, for memories of the past. In winter, the crunch and warmth of Takis would spark your day, and in spring - Raspberries!”

Outside the world of Candy Alley, Julie has her regular go-to spots within the centre.

“Bakers Delight sells the best bread, especially their poppyseed white knot rolls. The Fresh Food Mall at Rockingham Centre is a favourite place, I meet and chat with our customers and check out the different varieties of food, and what I’ll choose the next day!”

Still on the subject of food, we asked Julie for her ideal dinner party menu and guests.

“Bruschetta, veal scallopini piccata and berry pannacotta. I’d invite Margot Robbie, Ryan Reynolds and Dwayne Johnson – they’re my three favourite actors, and they all love Italian food. Who doesn’t!”

And who doesn’t love lollies! Call in and check out the amazing selection at Candy Alley, and say hello to Julie. She’ll find something to satisfy that sweet tooth!