But it might never have happened had not a Dimmeys executive been driving through Lithgow and noticed this big empty store in the middle of town.

Ivan Camporese, the National Assets-Development and facilities manager for Dimmeys, was driving through Lithgow on his way back to Sydney just a few weeks ago when he spotted the Bracey building.

He contacted staff at The Professionals real estate outlet just across the street and began making inquiries that in quick time have led to Dimmeys moving in.

“It all happened by accident.

“I was heading back from Parkes where we’ve opened a store in the former Grace Brothers building,” Mr Camporese told the Mercury yesterday.

Workmen were already busy bringing the store back to life in a bid to be in business before Christmas.

He said that Dimmeys was the current trading name of a firm with a history dating back to 1853 when it was operated in Victoria by the Jeffries family and became the nation’s biggest department store chain.

Mr Camporese said Dimmeys should not be confused with the usual perception of a discount store.

He said the firm specialises in sourcing major brand name stock from around the world from cancelled orders and overstocked or failed firms.

Its retail offerings include homewares, bedding, curtains, haberdashery and men’s, women’s and children’s clothing.

Mr Camporese said the new Lithgow store would build up to a full range of stock early in the New Year.

Interviews are already under way for staff appointments.

Dimmeys will be using the street level for trading and the basement level for parking.

The owner of the building is developing the upper level for professional offices to be accessed by a separate entrance and lift.