The Shire of Serpentine Jarrahdale in Western Australia is teaming up with local sewers to reduce pollution.
Local residents with a flair for sewing gathered at the Serpentine Jarrahdale Community Resource Centre recently for a special community sew-a-thon to promote the use of reusable shopping bags.
Thirteen sewers from the Serpentine Country Women’s Association, Mundijong Arts and Craft Group and All Things Craft and Dolls joined forces to produce 35 Boomerang Bags – multipurpose bags made from repurposed fabric and materials.
Since 2013, over 134,500 sustainable and reusable Boomerang Bags have been made across Australia as part of an initiative to tackle plastic pollution.
Shire of Serpentine Jarrahdale Manager of Library Services Lisa Keys said the inaugural community sew-a-thon allowed residents to showcase their sewing skills while helping reduce the environmental impact of plastic bags within the community.
“The response to this initiative was really encouraging and it was great to see people bring along their sewing machines and stitching kits last week,” Mrs Keys said.
“We had different stations for cutting, ironing, sewing, overlocking and pocket stitching which formed our own production line.
“All up, those who attended worked for about five hours and produced 35 Boomerang Bags which not only look fantastic but will also help keep the Shire clean and green well into the future.
“We’re very lucky to live in such a pristine location, and the Shire is committed to supporting community groups who work to preserve and enhance our natural environment.
“It was wonderful to see the community come together in such a positive and collaborative way and we are hoping to get even more people onboard at future sew-a-thons.”
