When people think of waste and litter it’s usually bottles, cans, and plastic bags that spring to mind, but clothing waste is becoming a growing problem too.
To combat this, the Wyndham Waste Alliance are holding a clothing swap on Thursday January 25 where unwanted fashion can be exchanged rather than just chucked into the bin.
Both the clothing swap and the Wyndham Waste Alliance are the brain-child of Jess Fairfax, Sustainability Project Officer at the Werribee River Association.
“As part of my role at Werribee River Association, I’ve created the Wyndham Waste Alliance which is a monthly get together for locals that are concerned about pollution and rubbish,” Ms Fairfax explained.
The alliance meets on the fourth Thursday of the month at the Werribee Bowls Club and for the first meeting of 2024, Ms Fairfax decided a clothes swap would be worth a try.
“People can bring along clothing that is still good quality, it can’t be ripped or smelly or dirty,” said Ms Fairfax, explaining how the swap works.
“You bring them along and then you can swap them for things that are there.”
There’s a maximum of ten items per person and Ms Fairfax said it’s up to the participants to determine their value.
“We just leave it up to you,” she said.
“As long as people are respectful. It’s about community, making friends and having a bit of fun as well as reducing the amount of clothes in landfill which is a huge waste issue.”
Doors open at 6.30pm and participants are encouraged to drop off their unwanted clothes as early as possible so they can be sorted before the swap begins at 7.15pm.
Drinks will be available at the bar, but patrons are encouraged to bring a place of food to share.
