Recycled craft raises thousands for refugees

AIREYS Inlet resident Bin Dixon-Ward has raised a remarkable $2,500 for refugees in the space of a month through an innovative recycling project at the town’s market.

Collaborating with the Surf Coast Repair Café, Aireys Inlet Rural Australians for Refugees (AIRAR) and the Aireys Inlet Market, Dixon-Ward has turned her project “Painkalac Plastics” into a significant fundraising venture, while taking care of the local environment.

She collects old milk bottle tops from the Repair Café, melts the plastic, and repurposes it as vibrant decorations and jewellery.

The Aireys Inlet Market provides Dixon-Ward with a free community stall to sell her Painkalac Plastic products, and all the money she raises is donated to AIRAR.

“It’s a win-win-win for the community,” she said.

“Residents are encouraged to recycle their plastic lids at the Repair Café.

“The market provides the perfect location to display and sell products, and also share information with the community about the value of recycling and keeping plastics off our beautiful beaches.

“And ultimately all the money goes to our local AIRAR group, who are supporting refugees to build a new life in our community.”

Painkalac Plastics held four stalls at the market in November and December.

Aireys Inlet Market continues every Sunday through January at the Aireys Inlet Community Hall from 9am-1pm, featuring a hand-picked, high quality selection of the region’s best arts, handcrafted goods, plants, street food and local treats.