Ballina Shire Council has named Little Village Clothes Swap as the first recipient of its Resource Recovery Community Grant delivered under Council's Donations - Community Resource Recovery Initiatives Policy. The initiative is recognised for its strong impact in reducing textile waste and supporting local families.
The Resource Recovery Community Grant program supports projects that minimise waste and keep valuable materials in circulation, delivering practical, community-led environmental outcomes.
Little Village Clothes Swap is a free, monthly clothing swap for infants and children, held at the Lennox Head Cultural Centre.
Founded by Bridget Colussa and powered by a dedicated volunteer team, the initiative has grown rapidly since its launch in June 2025. Eight swap events have already attracted around 300 participants and diverted an estimated 10 tonnes of children's clothing from landfill.
"Our aim is to reduce textile waste while supporting families and creating meaningful opportunities for people to connect," said Ms Colussa.
Little Village also promotes a circular economy through hands-on workshops focused on repairing, repurposing and upcycling. The next clothes swap is on 17 April 2026 and an upcycling workshop will run alongside it, giving participants practical skills to extend the life of their children's garments.
Applications are open year-round for Council's Resource Recovery Community Grant program. Individuals, community groups and organisations are invited to apply with projects that align with Council's resource recovery objectives, including reducing waste to landfill and improving community waste practices.
"If you've got an idea of how to minimise waste or improve resource recovery locally, we'd love to hear from you," said Justine Rowe, Council's Resource Recovery Education Officer. "Some of the most meaningful change comes from grassroots ideas that respond directly to community needs."
Grants of up to $50,000 are available. Applications can be made online at ballina.nsw.gov.au/ResourceRecoveryGrant
