UPDATE: An unprecedented global event is set to take place on Saturday, October 11, 2023, as residents across 16 councils in Perth band together for the Great Global Mend, an unofficial world record attempt aimed at mending clothing and textiles simultaneously. This initiative, organized in partnership with FabPatch and the Circular Fashion Festival, is determined to tackle the growing issue of textile waste while celebrating the art of repair.
Participants are invited to gather at the Hillview Intercultural Community Centre in Bentley, with the event kicking off sharply at 11:00 AM. Attendees will simultaneously begin mending their garments in a collective effort to reclaim and rejuvenate worn clothing. The event promises a lively atmosphere filled with hand-sewing, patching, and darning, all while imparting valuable knowledge about sustainable fashion practices.
The City of Canning’s Mayor, Patrick Hall, expressed his enthusiasm for the event, stating,
“It’s inspiring to see 16 local governments come together to champion the value of repairing over discarding. Repairing is an act of resistance against throwaway culture. This event is not just about achieving a record but about shifting mindsets and celebrating community-driven solutions that tackle textile waste.”
Hall urged residents to come prepared with their sewing kits and any items needing repair, emphasizing the importance of community engagement in sustainability.
In addition to the mending activities, the event will feature a FabPatch station offering a limited number of free rub-on patches, alongside a communal mending space and expert guidance for those unfamiliar with repair techniques. Participants can also share personal stories of repair and sustainability, fostering a sense of community and collective responsibility.
All are welcome, from seasoned stitchers to novices eager to learn. Other participating locations include the South Lake Ottey Family and Neighbourhood Centre in the City of Cockburn and various libraries in the City of Melville. This event represents a significant step in raising awareness about textile waste and the power of repair, encouraging individuals to value their belongings rather than discarding them.
For more information on the Great Global Mend, visit canning.wa.gov.au/greatglobalmend. Don’t miss this chance to be part of a historical moment while making a positive impact on the environment!
