Op Shop Guide reinforces ‘Reuse, Recycle and Upcycle’

City of Darwin has today launched an Opportunity Shop (Op Shop) Guide - ‘Second Hand Wonderlands’ aimed at promoting and encouraging sustainability across Darwin.

The launch was held at the Red Cross Op Shop in the Mall and coincides with Second Hand Wardrobe Day.

The Second Hand Wonderlands guide provides up-to-date information on where Opportunity Shops are located, who they are operated by and opening hours.

City of Darwin Lord Mayor Kon Vatskalis said he was delighted by the initiative.

“Late last month I declared a climate emergency and I believe it is on all of us to make decisions to reduce, reuse and recycle.”

“Our op shop guide Second Hand Wonderlands is all about continuing the sustainability message,” he said.

Andrea Lee, Red Cross NT Manager added “Op Shops offer so much to the community; a place to meet friends, to volunteer and to find unique “have to buy” things!”

“Each year, Red Cross Shops across Australia rescue 450 tonnes of clothing from landfill and provide retail training and opportunities to 4,400 volunteers.”

“Funds from the donated goods sold are so important as they help to support the everyday work of Red Cross here in the Northern Territory.”

Op shopping has become increasingly popular in recent years, as a necessity for some and a fun activity for others.  An entire language has emerged to support the trend, including ‘upcycling’, ‘free-cycling’ and ‘trashion’.

“Op shopping saves money and the environment” added Lord Mayor Vatskalis “currently more than 4% of landfill is clothing and by making a choice to op shop people can make a real difference.

“I also want to encourage people to donate good clean items to op shops, rather than throwing them away – remember donate it, don’t ditch it!” Lord Mayor Vatskalis concluded.

The Op Shop Guide will be printed on recycled paper and will also be online.

For more information visit - https://www.darwin.nt.gov.au/explore/out-and-about/secondhand-wonderlands/op-shop-guide

Upcycling - converting ‘useless' waste products into new exciting products. Free-Cycling - giving away to others, rather than throwing away unwanted items. Trashion - the art of refashioning old clothes into designer pieces by upcycling.