‘Young & Connected’ at Byron Bay Library: Free Workshop on Slow Fashion

Redemption, danger and new beginnings

Title: Dusk

Author: Robbie Arnott

Price: $32.95

Publisher: Pan MacMillan

By Samantha Elley

A puma is killing the sheep and when the locals go out to hunt it down, they are being killed too.

They call the animal Dusk and it attracts bounty hunters from far afeld, including twins Iris and Floyd. The brother and sister are a unique pair, having been brought up in the worst of circumstances with two parents who lived life on the road, scamming and stealing to survive.

Freed from their parental bonds by a ‘twist of fate’, Floyd and Iris make their own way in the world and as they are out of money with no work or friends, they fnd the reward for catching Dusk too attractive to ignore. They head to the highlands where Dusk is lurking.

Byron Bay Library is excited to announce the latest addition to its Young & Connected Program: a free workshop titled ‘Slow Fashion in the Digital World’, presented by Byron Shire local and slow fashion advocate, Eve Constantinos.

The reader is taken on the journey where the lives of the twins unfold and an understanding of how they came to be where they are becomes clearer.

All revealed with the backdrop of the breathtaking highlands and the ever present danger that lurks in the shape of a large puma, it is easy to become invested in their lives.

Robbie Arnott hails from Hobart, Tasmania where he lives with his wife and daughter. His previous books include Limberlost, The Rain Heron and Flames. He has twice won The Age Book of the Year, has been awarded the Voss Literary Prize and named the Sydney Morning Heral Best Young Novelist. He has been shortlisted for the Miles Franklin Literary Award twice, as well as the Dylan Thomas Prize.

You can order your copy of Dusk from booktopia.com.au

Eve’s journey into sustainable fashion began with a passion for style and environmental consciousness. After returning from a holiday with an empty wallet and big dreams, she started her second-hand clothing business from humble garage sales. It quickly grew into a thriving venture with local markets, event stalls, and online sales.

“From receiving donation bags to collaborating with others to sell their clothes, I realized the potential of sustainable fashion. I’ve always loved using style as a form of self-expression, and I’ve been able to grow my business using the digital skills I’m learning while studying Digital Media & Communications at Southern Cross University,” Eve shared.

Eve’s unique approach includes using videography and social media to showcase second-hand clothing collections, giving preloved items a second chance while promoting environmentally friendly practices.

“Shopping sustainably is more important than ever. Fast fashion has a huge environmental impact, and I wanted to create a business that not only offers unique style options but also champions sustainability,” she said.

“Selling second-hand clothes is a rewarding process. It’s fun, connects you with interesting people, and can even generate income. I’m thrilled to share what I’ve learned with young people to help them embrace sustainable fashion and build successful businesses.”

What the Workshop Covers

The Slow Fashion in the Digital World workshop will include:

• How and where to start a second-hand clothing business (local markets and online platforms).

• Tips for graphic design, social media content creation, photography, and videography.

• Pricing items and strategies to stand out in the marketplace.

• A Q&A session and a clothing swap for hands-on engagement.

Why It Matters

Byron Area Librarian

Stacey Shepherd highlighted the importance of workshops like this for empowering young people.

“Byron Library is delighted to support our young community through creative and educational opportunities. Workshops like Eve’s slow fashion event provide a space for peer-to-peer learning, networking, and knowledge sharing,” Stacey said.

“This workshop aligns with our commitment to supporting local visions and creating opportunities for young people to explore ideas, expand their knowledge, and make meaningful connections.”

Event Details

• Workshop Title: Slow Fashion in the Digital World

• Date & Time: Thursday, 28th November, 3:30 PM –5:30 PM

• Location: Byron Bay Library

• Age Group: 14–24 years

• Cost: Free

• How to Book: Visit www.rtrl.nsw.gov.au or call 6685 8540

Don’t miss this chance to learn from an inspiring local entrepreneur, gain insights into sustainable fashion, and participate in a fun clothing swap. Reserve your spot today!