September 4, 2020
Artists unmasked
(Rebecca Hosking) 214423_01
Aireys Inlet mother-of-two Kendra Harding is working to stop the spread of COVID-19 while promoting Indigenous artists. The handbag maker has been creating masks from her excess fabric featuring Indigenous designs from arts centres in Darwin and another in Broome. Kendra hoped her mask-making efforts would help create greater exposure for Northern Territory artists such as Ngen’gi wumirri man Kieren Karritpul. “It’s fantastic when people say, ‘where did you get that fabric? I want to make a dress’,” she said. Kendra first started making Indigenous-themed handbags after a three-year trip to the Northern Territory beginning in 2015. Following the initial COVID-19 outbreak she started making Indigenous-themed masks to export to countries like China. But since face-covering restrictions came into force in Victoria, Kendra has made about 200 masks for locals with help from an Argentinian traveller she took in. “She happens to be a fashion designer,” she said “That’s been keeping her afloat.” Details: ooroo.com.au. Luke Voogt
Backing small business More than 1500 tickets have been snapped up for the Geelong Small Business Festival, which kicked off on Tuesday, with one in five events booked out. “It’s pleasing to see the greater Geelong community so eager to get involved in our 10th Geelong Small Business Festival, presented in a completely new way,” mayor Stephanie Asher said. “I’m proud that we’ve been able to adapt to the difficult conditions of COVID-19 and deliver this exciting event 100 per cent online,
making it even more accessible.” Council’s economic development chair Peter Murrihy also welcomed the result. “From the high number of tickets sold already, it’s clear that our community is still looking for ways to connect and grow their business or career in spite of the challenges brought on by the pandemic.” About 400 people registered for yesterday’s keynote event featuring renowned digital entrepreneur, Mia Freedman. The author, editor and founder of Australian
women’s website Mamamia.com.au spoke to an online audience about building a media company from her lounge room. The keynote presentation is one of many free events throughout the festival, which continues until September 18. The festival aims to bring people together, provide opportunities to hear from experts and share advice and support for local businesses. Economic development deputy chair Trent Sullivan said the festival completed council’s
$5 million of COVID-19 support measures including the waiving of fees, levies and rates. “[The festival provides] a unique and highly engaging way for businesspeople to get together, be inspired and broaden their skills,” Cr Sullivan said. “We sincerely thank the Victorian government and Small Business Victoria for their ongoing support of this vital event for our region.” Details: www.gsbf.com.au
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