The weekend will not be going to waste with residents from across the region invited to attend the Upcycle Village Fair at the Lakes Creek Road Waste Management Facility this Saturday.
Waste and Recycling Councillor Shane Latcham said this unique community event, which was sponsored by Council through the Community Assistance Program, promises to be an exciting day out for the whole family, filled with free activities for both kids and adults to enjoy.
"Rockhampton Regional Council has collaborated with Resource Recovery Australia and Multicultural Australia to help bring this fantastic community event together - an event we hope inspires our local community," Cr Latcham said.
"We want to use this opportunity to show people that many items don't need to end up in landfill, and instead can be given new life through reuse and upcycling practices.
"There will be plenty of things to see and do, with the fair featuring a range of interactive and informative experiences.
"Visitors can witness upcycling demonstrations, learn how to refurbish old bikes, and participate in a book and toy swap, enabling the exchange of pre-loved items.
"In addition, numerous market stalls will showcase and sell upcycled goods, offering an excellent opportunity to find unique and environmentally friendly gifts just in time for the upcoming holiday season.
"The fair will also feature workshops on crafting Christmas wrapping paper and mini tabletop Christmas trees, making it an ideal place for families to prepare for the festive season.
"The kids will also have their share of enjoyment with free activities such as face painting, a petting zoo, and engaging craft workshops happening throughout the day.
"The community are also encouraged to explore and shop at the popular Reviva Ibis Reuse Shop, a significant addition to the Lakes Creek Road Waste Management Facility since its opening in 2021.
"Council also acknowledges the importance of Remembrance Day and our fallen veterans, and a number of Remembrance Day activities will be held throughout the day, including the official pause for a minute's silence."
Highlighting the success of Reviva Ibis, Councillor Shane Latcham said the Reuse Shop and Community Recycling Centre have emerged as significant assets in Council's pursuit of waste reduction and resource recovery.
"In the past 12 months, the not-for-profit social enterprise Resource Recovery Australia, have provided 31 employment opportunities to community members that were experiencing barriers to employment, over 90 training opportunities were provided to staff, and 303.74 tonnes of waste was diverted from landfill through the reuse shop," Cr Latcham said.
"These diverted items have gone on to either be reused, repurposed, repaired or upcycled, and then reintegrated back into our community.
"In addition to this, over 5 tonnes of materials have been donated to local charities, reinforcing Resource Recovery Australia's commitment to the community and environmental sustainability.
"As the journey towards a zero-waste community continues, this fantastic initiative not only aligns with Council's Resource Recovery Strategy but also represents a significant step towards building a more sustainable and environmentally conscious future for the region."
The Upcycle Village Fair is on this Saturday, 11 November from 9am to 1pm at the Lakes Creek Road Waste Management Facility, 152 Lakes Creek Road, Rockhampton 4701.
