The Sunshine Repair Cafe provides a platform for residents to breathe new life into their broken possessions – but it needs more volunteers.
From electrical appliances and tools to furniture, clocks, and even clothing, the cafe’s team of skilled volunteers are dedicated to finding solutions and keeping items out of landfills.
About15 to 20 people visit the cafe each month, a number Kororoit Creek Neighbourhood House co-ordinator Danielle Whelan hopes to grow with the help of additional volunteers.
The team is particularly keen to recruit individuals with expertise in electrical repairs, as these types of items are among the most sought-after services.
“The more volunteers we have the more items we can fix each month; we match items with volunteers and their skills, so if we don’t have a volunteer available to repair electricals or textiles and clothing on the day we won’t be able to give people an appointment to come in,” Ms Whelan said.
“Electrical items are one of the key things people seek repairs for, this could be replacing a damaged cord on an appliance, replacing a lamp fitting or battery in a power tool.
“There are very few options for repair for these types of things; and when there are options they are often more costly as buying a replacement item making it uneconomical for people to choose repair over buying something new.”
For those interested in volunteering, the cafe offers a unique opportunity to not only learn new skills but also to make a tangible difference in the community.
“In addition to being good fun and a great opportunity to meet others in the community, if people enjoy tinkering and get enjoyment out of fixing things, you’re very likely to enjoy being a part of this program,” Ms Whelan said.
“You’re doing something great for others in the community and the environment.”
The repair cafe runs on the fourth Sunday of the month via appointment.
To book a repair or volunteer, contact sunshinerepaircafe@kcnh.org.au
