Resources, recast: 2024's Waste Minimisation Community Fund recipients announced

Queenstown Lakes District Council (QLDC) is pleased to announce that 13 waste reduction projects have secured a share of the 2024 Waste Minimisation Community Fund (WMCF). 

The $60,000 fund supports local initiatives that contribute to waste reduction and resource efficiency in the district. The fund received a diverse range of applications from individuals, community groups, and businesses passionate about promoting a circular economy by transforming and repurposing resources, that might otherwise be viewed as waste, into useful items.  

Among the successful applicants is Wānaka's Profficiency, whose project Brew & Reuse transforms grain bags from the brewing process into reusable tote bags. After being sourced from breweries, the bags are thoroughly cleaned to remove residual grain. From there, 95% of the grain bag is cut to a pattern and sewn to make upcycled tote bags that are sturdy and spacious, for errands like grocery shopping. 

“Receiving a grant from the WMCF is invaluable for this project.  This grant has been key for us in helping get things off the ground,” said Joaquin Bonet from Profficiency. 

Wānaka's Classic Stitch-Ups, led by owner and seamster Sam Bickley, is a growing business with a mission to support reuse and repair in the region. With the funding, Bickley aims to work with a wider number of local schools, businesses and community organisations to repair uniform items and outdoor gear, extending the lifecycle of the item or garment and reducing waste to landfill. His vision also includes hosting educational community workshops and sewing bees.  

"This grant will enable us to broaden our reach and deepen our impact by taking others along on the journey of textile waste reduction," said Bickley.

"We're excited to empower our community with the skills and knowledge to embrace a more circular economy, where repair and reuse are valued over disposal." 

Further transformation in the district will be thanks to a newly funded Tool Library at the Wānaka Community Workshop, while Naylor Love aims to use its grant to reduce the amount of construction waste going to landfill and, in the process, transform industry and community mindsets. 

QLDC Senior Sustainability Advisor, Kath Buttar says the level of interest in the fund has been outstanding, reflecting the community's passion and commitment toward reducing waste.  

“Among the successful recipients we have a fantastic mix of projects focusing on reduction, repurposing, and repair. These initiatives will play a crucial role in helping to create a more sustainable future for our district.”  

Wānaka-Upper Clutha Ward Councillor Cody Tucker, who is a panelist on the Waste Minimisation Community Fund, says he is deeply inspired by the innovative projects from the community.  

“From tool libraries to diverting construction leftovers and local frisbee production from used materials, these initiatives show how creativity can transform waste management. It's a privilege to support these endeavors that challenge us to rethink waste in resourceful ways."  

A full list of this year’s WMCF recipients can be found below with more details about their projects available on Council’s website at https://www.qldc.govt.nz/wmcf#wmcf-recipients

The successful applicants are: 

• Wānaka Community Workshop Trust – Wānaka Community Workshop - Tool Library 

• Naylor Love – Community Upcycling Station 

• Kanuka Corner Early Childhood Centre – The Repair and Reuse Shop 

• Sofia Cinque – Sustainable Periods 

• TIKKI Studio Ltd – Reviving sewing skills for a sustainable future 

• Emma Watts – Shotover School & Community Waste Minimisation Project 

• Ian Fitzpatrick – Trash Goblin 

• Joaquin Bonet trading as Profficiency – Brew & Reuse 

• Remarkables Primary School – Kaitiakitanga Kaupapa 

• Kāhu Youth Trust — Bin Signage Prototypes 

• Skyline Queenstown – Upcycling Old Uniforms Project 

• Crimson Badger Brewing – Shrink Use of Shrink Wrap 

• Classic Stitch-Ups – Uniform and Gear Repairs 

Another funding round will be launched in 2025. 

ENDS|KUA MUTU.

Media contact: communications@qldc.govt.nz or call 03 441 1802.

FURTHER INFORMATION | Kā pāroko tāpiri

For more information and a list of recipients from previous years visit: https://www.qldc.govt.nz/wmcf