Otway Wardrobe project helping students step out in style
- deansimpson7
- Sep 1
- 4 min read
BY LERISSE SMITH
Following a standout run at Victoria’s Colac Salvos, the Otway Wardrobe project has made a significant leap forward into local secondary schools, achieving resounding success.
What started as a bold idea to provide a free formal wear rental scheme for young people aged 12 to 18 has become a game-changer for local youths in the community, redefining how they present themselves for life’s big and special events – from formal occasions and fun proms to interviews and inductions.
Now embedded in both Colac Secondary College (CSC) and powered by the ongoing support of Colac Salvos, the Otway Wardrobe initiative is opening doors, and closets, for more students than ever before, enabling them to look sharp and stylish for formal occasions.
“It has been a massive success,” said Josiah Van Niekerk, Corps Leader of Colac Corps.
“We have got a bit of a light up, which is great. We are doing free hair and makeup. We have got hairdressers and beauticians that are on our volunteer team, and they can come in and do free hair and makeup for the formals, proms and special events like that. We are excited that students can look their best without the cost!
“The cost of formal wear can be a barrier to opportunity, especially for young people from underprivileged backgrounds. So, Otway Wardrobe has ensured special moments for young people, such as formals, interviews and special events, should not be overshadowed by the financial strain of finding the perfect outfit.”
But the project isn’t just about accessibility.
The wardrobe’s integration into the school system has gone deeper, forming the basis of the Vocational Major (VM) curriculum for 30 Year 12 students starting from term 2 at CSC.
Student teams across design, art and marketing now interact directly with the wardrobe space – maintaining stock, trying on items, developing advertising strategies and managing promotion, and collaborating with the Salvos crew to keep the initiative vibrant and student-led.
It is a creative, real-world learning experience that doubles as meaningful community service.
“It’s a great kind of networking thing that we do with the school,” reflected Josiah.
“The wardrobe has become a part of the curriculum now, which is really cool at the college. We have got three other schools that are really interested to get one, and we have the means to be able to help create one in their space. We just need them to clear a space for it. So, in the end, we could have three to five wardrobes in local schools in the Colac Region supporting the young people to get fitted out for free and even for events like interviews as well.”
The project was born just last year, the brainchild of Dayna Watt, Year 12 Coordinator at CSC. Known for her big heart and passion for social impact, Dayna and her students set out to create something that would blend sustainability with supporting the local community.
Their idea? A formal wear rental scheme – stylish, inclusive, and cost-free.
“It has been amazing for the local community,” reflected Josiah.
“It has helped so many young people and been amazing for community groups like us. The Year 12 students from Colac Secondary College and their wonderful teachers helped to set up the space. Not only that, but they had the original idea to create this initiative, which just shows the power of community helping community.”
Throwing their support behind the idea, the students became actively involved, visiting the centre at least once a week to sort through racks, collect donations from local Salvos and Vinnies thrift shops, and curate the wardrobe. They stocked everything from formal dresses and suits to shoes, ties and accessories, with options to suit every style and personality.
A wave of generous donations, both financial and material, also poured in from families, schools, and locals, giving the project the boost it needed.
And from day one, the project tapped into a powerful local network.
Top of the list were hairdressers, beauticians and retailers who offered their services and support, adding a bit of glamour and confidence to the young people as they prepared for their big moments. Colac Salvos stepped in to provide the physical space and coordination.
And the glamour hasn’t been lost in the logistics.
Those same beauty professionals continue to donate their time to help students prepare for events such as formals, graduations, proms and interviews, adding that finishing touch of confidence and class.
The nearby Salvos Store, just a block away, has also played a crucial role in keeping the wardrobe fully stocked and fresh during the past year.
“They have been phenomenal,” Josiah said. “Their support has helped unify the community to be even more open to embrace this fantastic initiative that continues to empower and dignify Colac’s young people.”
