On the 31st of December, the Facebook page of Graphic Action Comics of Newcastle, New South Wales, Australia posted the following note:

Over a million comics into Newie–new on release–over 2 decades!

We're proud of what we've built over this time, the people we've met, the stories we've shared, the moments we've had , and the people that have supported us through the good times, and the hard times. That's why this next part is the hardest thing we've ever had to do. Due to a number of factors, most beyond our control – we've decided that after 24 years – 2019 will be our last year of trading. January is most likely our last month of full time trading. Unfortunately – it's time. But we ain't going out like that! In January – we'll be commencing the sale of the (nearly quarter of a) century – kicking off with 40% of all bagged back issues – and 30% off variants, issue sets/collections posters and action figures! Spot specials, deeper discounts, and one off items galore as we go through the month, changing weekly and daily! (Sale Instore Only – so try to drop by!) We're going for the month, and over that period will be unearthing many thousands of rare back issues from over our 24 years – many that haven't seen the light of day in YEARS! And More! Rare DC Direct figures , sealed in cases for over a decade and MORE! Get in early before someone beats you to it! If you've got items on hold, that we've loyally held for you – please come by and collect them. We'll be going all through January to give everyone a chance to come in and make some final purchases, and score some wicked rare stuff – so many people have supported us over these 24 years – we didn't want anyone to miss out, so that's why we're having a month long bonanza all through January! We hope to see you – come on by – buy some loveliness – and let's cap off 24 years like we began – waaay back in 1995 – with a BOOM!

Apparently, this is as a result of light rail works in the city that lost them a lot of business–and that even after the works finished, parking was taken away, leaving the store relying on foot traffic.

Bleeding Cool tries to mark the passing of comic stores as well as new arrivals on the scene. We're more likely to hear about the former rather than the latter due to concerned fans but do please feel free to let us know the changes in your own local marketplace. E-mail me at richjohnston@bleedingcool.com.