Teddies on the mend

By Esther Lauaki

A teddy hospital will be part of a Woodend initiative to fix bits and bobs that need repairs.

Woodend Neighbourhood House will hold a Repair Cafe next month in a bid to reduce waste by fixing items for free.

House co-ordinator Angela Van Dam said the initiative, in conjunction with groups such as the Men’s Shed, was the first of its kind in the Macedon Ranges.

“There has been a growing awareness and eagerness to live a more environmentally sustainable lifestyle in the ranges, and a local repair cafe is a great opportunity for the Woodend Neighbourhood House to further support this movement” Ms Van Dam said.

“You can bring in everything from bicycles, to wooden furniture, small mechanical items, computers, clothing, and teddy bears needing some love, to start with.

“We’ll be happy to have a go at most things except for 240 volt electrical items – generally things with a plug – for safety reasons.

“We’re excited about creating a space that will bring together different members of our community so they can connect, share skills, and learn from each other.”

The one-stop repairs workshop will be held on the first Saturday of every month from 10am to 1pm, and will operate out of the Undercroft at the Woodend Neighbourhood House.