Party picks, 50 cents

Op shops are full of other people’s souvenirs. I like to buy the odd exhibition catalogue, but generally I steer clear of merchandise that is emblazoned with the names of cities I haven’t been to or shows I haven’t seen. But I couldn’t go past these 1970s mermaid party picks, even though the pack was labelled “Greetings from Lakes Entrance.” The nude element had me thinking they’d make a good gift for any one of the dirty old geezers I know, but they turned out to be so practical I kept them. They’re sturdy, washable and the perfect thing to have next to a platter of oysters at a party.