A group of dedicated volunteers have come together to revive a local repair cafe, fixing people’s broken items for free.
Repair Cafe Bellarine will officially launch on Sunday, July 21 at the Bellarine Training and Community Hub in Ocean Grove between 12.20pm and 4.30pm, with a range of volunteers skilled in bike repairs, mechanics, electrical, woodwork, knitting and sewing.
The new Repair Cafe Bellarine will follow on from the good work done by the original, which operated successfully from 2018 until pandemic lockdowns forced it to cease in 2021.
Organiser Andrew Lewis said the grass roots movement could help shift community attitudes toward a more sustainable model.
“We throw away so many household items in Australia, even things which have only minor issues and could easily be used again with the right knowledge and tools,” he said.
“I get a real buzz out of bringing something that was bound for landfill back to doing what it was intended for, while giving a boost to the environment along the way. In some cases, items that are beyond repair can have a second life by being put to another use.
Mr Lewis said by promoting repairs the Repair Cafe aimed to reduce waste, reduce CO2 emissions and help people save money, while also connecting members of the community in new ways.
“If you repair a bike, a blender or a favourite jacket together with a previously unfamiliar neighbour, you look at that person in a different light the next time you see them on the street,” Mr Lewis said.
After the launch event the Repair Cafe Bellarine will run on the third Sunday of every month. Visit facebook.com/RepairCafeBellarine for more information on volunteering or getting your items fixed.
