Business & Rural
14 February, 2026
BEHIND THE BUSINESS: Beauty in eye of community
“We’re loud and that’s how we like to be.” Call 5495 1306 to book yourself an appointment at Top of the Town Hair and Beauty.
MEAGAN Harvey hopes that anyone who walks through the door at Top of the Town Hair and Beauty will feel like they’re home.
Part of her community.
And for many customers of hers and Lindy Patching’s, that’s exactly how they feel.
“I’ve been doing this for almost 40 years and all I want is for people to come in and join in the fun,” Mrs Harvey said.
“People tell us they can hear our laughs down the street and we take that as a compliment.
“We’re loud and that’s how we like to be.”
After moving away to study, Mrs Harvey was encouraged to make the move back home.
“And I’ve never regretted it for a minute,” she said.
“My mum told me to come back here because we needed something like this.
“I’ve never looked back. I love this community.”
And St Arnaud feels the same way.
Top of the Town offers a range of treatments in the hair and beauty realm.
That includes your typical cuts and colours, waxing and tinting and even teeth whitening.
But Mrs Harvey said she makes sure she always caters for her demographic every day.
“We’re one of the few places who still does perms,” she said.
“I have a lot of older clients that are still looking for that sort of service, so we will keep doing it.”
Mrs Harvey said it was this group of clients that makes up her inner circle.
“Honestly, when I lose a client, it’s like I’ve lost a grandma,” she said.
“We’re a very diverse lot here and it’s an honour to be a part of such an amazing group of people and town as a whole.”
The shop also stocks a range of beauty products including shampoos and conditioners, hair oils and detanglers and much more.
And while she does move with the times in terms of new treatments and products, Mrs Harvey said she wants to ensure she keeps doing what she knows best.
“If it isn’t broken, why should we fix it?” She said.
“I’m willing to give anything a try, but I also want to make sure I keep doing what I know works and what I’m known for.
“We have a few fabulous beauty shops here now that all specialise in different things.
“As long as I’m encouraging people to shop locally, I’ll be happy with anything.”
Mrs Harvey and Ms Patching can be found in the shop from Monday to Friday at 110 Napier Street, St Arnaud.
“Just come in and see what we’re about,” Mrs Harvey said.
“We can chat about your needs and sort out a treatment to suit you. And we’ll chat about prices and things when you get here.”
Call 5495 1306 to book your self an appointment.
Read More: St Arnaud