Local Family’s Quest for “Savings” at Costco Now Costs More Than Mortgage

Brock Ledger | Economics Correspondent | Sutherland Shire Gazette

14 June 2025

SYLVANIA  — A local family’s decision to “save money in the long run” by getting a Costco membership has spiralled into what experts are calling “a bold financial rebrand of suburban hoarding.”

The McKenna family first ventured west of the Shire six months ago, lured by $1.99 churros and shrink-wrapped ambition. What began as a casual membership soon escalated into a quarterly pilgrimage and, eventually, the construction of a purpose-built cool room behind their garage.

“We just popped in for batteries,” said mum Kylie, now the proud owner of 84 AA packs and 36 litres of dijon mustard. “But then we saw the four-metre inflatable Santa and three  kilos of Himalayan salt we didn’t need, and it felt fiscally reckless not to buy them.”

Their garage now houses what the family calls “The Shire Bunker” - a climate-controlled stockpile fitted with steel shelving, biometric locks, and enough desiccant sachets to dry out Woronora River.

Local economist and part-time Bunnings sausage sizzler Dave Petropoulos says this is part of a wider trend. “Families are spending thousands on bulk-buy logistics without factoring in storage physics or the emotional toll of staring down 17kg of dried lentils every night.”

According to a recent Gymea TAFE longitudinal study, 72% of Costco bulk purchases are eventually thrown out, re-gifted, or left in pantries until a child moves out and asks, “What even is this?”

Meanwhile, one Engadine man has reportedly begun construction on a mezzanine level in his garage using surplus olive oil tins.

“I haven’t seen my bike in weeks,” said teen son Jack. “But if society collapses, we’ll be sweet for protein bars, contact lens solution, and salted capers until 2037.”

The family is now considering splitting their inventory with neighbours - provided those neighbours are emotionally prepared to commit to a 4.7kg tub of tzatziki and six litres of Kirkland brand horseradish.