Published on Tuesday, 21 December 2021 at 12:10:00 PM

Exmouth's resident population has a strong desire to be part of a sustainable recycling culture, and the Shire of Exmouth aims to empower the community to achieve realistic recycling goals together and minimise waste going to landfills through continual reuse and recycling of resources.

The latest example of local artists, Sabina Finnern, shows that the circular economy model can work in a remote location like Exmouth if community members and the local government work together.

Destination banners displayed in the town centre have to be replaced regularly due to the harsh weather conditions in the Gascoyne. But being subjected to strong winds and the permanent sun doesn't mean that they can't have the chance at a second life.

Sabina approached the Shire of Exmouth to investigate the opportunity to repurpose the banners. Her creative reuse now builds on seemingly unusable items by instilling artistic innovation into the items through hands-on making.

Launched at the Exmouth Christmas Markets, bespoke beach bags and laundry hampers have been a huge success, with further designs to come.

The beach bags are also available at the Ningaloo Visitor Centre, where local artists of various trades have the opportunity to sell their products.

COMMENTS ATTRIBUTED TO THE SHIRE – SHIRE PRESIDENT DARLENE ALLSTON

"While not every product is designed to be reused and recycled, Council emphasises that even the smallest initiative makes a big difference in our remote town and we strongly encourage the Exmouth community to engage with the Community Waste Working Group.”

"Council is striving to meet the community's goals, set by our Community Strategic Plan, to protect and value our natural and man-built environment. And this includes taking every opportunity to prioritise waste avoidance and minimisation and support innovative, creative and sustainable recycling and reuse ideas"

COMMENTS ATTRIBUTED TO THE ARTIST – SABINA FINNERN

"When moving to Exmouth last March I was intrigued by the town’s banners featuring Exmouth’s abundance of flora and fauna. It made me wonder what happens with them after they had their time in the sun and whether I could give them a new life. I approached the Shire and was delighted when they approved for me to receive them, preventing their current destination, the landfill. The design of the banners inspired me to create a range of second uses: from beach bags to laundry hampers to wall hangings. Most of all I am happy to be able to reduce the amount of waste going to landfill with my time and sewing skills.”

MEDIA

Additional Media on request.

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Media on request.

Media contact:
Sandra Flint, Coordinator Communications & Marketing, Shire of Exmouth
M: 0459 431 439 | E: sflint@exmouth.wa.gov.au

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