Reviva Ibis, a local not-for-profit social enterprise of Resource Recovery Australia, has kicked off its highly anticipated “Reuse, Repair and Repurpose Competition,” inviting locals to display their imaginative upcycling and repair projects, inspiring the community and offering a chance to win valuable prizes.
Kahli Pearson, manager of Reviva Ibis, expressed her excitement about the competition, stating, “This competition is a highlight of our year because we get to see the ideas and talents of our community shine through.”
According to Pearson, Rockhampton and Central Queensland residents have wholeheartedly embraced the culture of upcycling and repair, presenting an array of projects that have amazed the Reviva team.
Entries have also included transforming old clothing into bedspreads, crafting mosaic masterpieces from broken tiles, and even creating entire kitchens from upcycled pieces.
This year’s competition offers a national prize of a $250 Visa gift card, a local prize of a $150 Visa gift card, and a special category for children with a $50 Visa gift card up for grabs.
Pearson said she is confident that a local resident will secure the top prize, emphasising the extraordinary talent and ingenuity of Rockhampton’s community.
She added, “Every Reviva team around the country wants to see one of their locals take out the top prize. We know it will be a Rocky local though, the talent and ideas here are second to none.”
The Reviva Ibis team said it is available to assist locals in entering the competition online and can offer a wealth of ideas and inspiration.
Beyond fostering creativity and skill-building, upcycling, reusing, and repairing have a positive impact on the environment, the community, and personal finances.
By repurposing and refurbishing discarded or old items into useful or higher-value creations, individuals can reduce waste and decrease the demand for new raw materials.
Kahli Pearson emphasised the community-building aspect of upcycling, explaining, “It’s about repurposing and transforming discarded or old items into something useful or of higher value. We’re seeing upcycling and repair helping to connect our community. People are able to share ideas and inspiration with each other.”
“Upcycling and repairing things help you save money by making the most out of what you already have, instead of needing to buy new stuff,” Kahli added.
The Reuse, Repair, and Repurpose Competition is open to all members of the community.
The competition will run until National Recycling Week, with entries closing on Friday, 17 November 2023.
