Better Spaces, Smarter Solutions at Yackandandah Community Centre

5 Sept 2025

Yackandandah Community Centre has been tackling two challenges at once: creating a more usable community space and finding smarter ways to manage unwanted clothing.

Yackandandah Community Centre has been tackling two challenges at once: creating a more usable community space and finding smarter ways to manage unwanted clothing. Manager Jane Murphy said the issue of excess donations had become increasingly difficult as collection services have reduced their pick-ups and more items are being sent overseas.

“Our old sorting room just didn’t have the space or storage capacity to properly manage donations,” Jane explained. “We wanted to come up with solutions, not add to the problem. That meant improving our facilities so we could handle items better and prioritise sustainable options.”

With input from the committee, local designers and trades, the centre invested in upgrades. The kitchen was refurbished with more storage, an oven, dishwasher and safer layout, while the sorting area was reconfigured to make processing donations more efficient. “It has made the space better for the whole community as well as for our 30+ volunteers,” Jane said.

The next step will focus on educating the community about where items end up and encouraging more thoughtful donating. “We’ve kept the community updated along the way, and the feedback has been really positive,” Jane added. “Now it’s about making sure people know the impact of their donations and how we can all play a role in reducing waste.”