Salvos Stores launch world-first Textile Recovery Facility in Brisbane
- 1 day ago
- 4 min read
BY SIMONE WORTHING
“Innovation has always been a part of The Salvation Army,” said Colonel John Chamness, Chief Secretary, speaking at the official opening of the Salvos Stores Textile Recovery Facility in Carole Park, Brisbane – the first of its kind in Australia.
“From developing the first matchstick factory that removed phosphorus from the production of matches in the 1800s in London, to the beginning of its collecting, sorting and recycling used clothing and fabric in the late 19th century, innovation is a part of who we are,” he continued.
“The first Salvation Army recycling depots in Australia began in the 1880s, operating with the dual purpose of recycling used goods and providing equipment, supplies and support to those who need it most. That purpose and commitment to people and our planet continues through our 419 Salvo stores across the country today.
“This site embodies that mission, caring for creation and strengthening communities.”
Colonels John and Lani Chamness joined Salvation Army Queensland and Salvos Stores leaders for the opening, which was also attended by business and industry partners, academics, community stakeholders and government representatives, including Queensland Minister for Science and Innovation, and Acting Minister for Environment and Tourism, Andrew Powell.
In Australia, over 200,000 tonnes of clothing end up in landfill each year, highlighting the urgent need for innovative solutions that protect the environment that the Textile Recovery Facility provides.
The facility will annually process and sell up to 5000 tonnes of textile waste, collected through Salvos Stores and from other business partners, enabling the decommissioned materials to stay in circulation, reduce landfill, protect the environment and generate additional revenue to fund the frontline work of The Salvation Army across the country.
Lasting impacts
The process features innovative technology, including artificial intelligence and robotics, to sort and decontaminate textiles. This ‘feedstock’ can then be transformed into new products such as insulation, plastics, yarn, woven cloth and acoustic panels.
Nic Baldwin, Head of Salvos Stores, said, “This achievement is a proud moment for Salvos Stores and reflects our deep commitment to innovation and caring for the planet we all share. Every step forward helps us create lasting impact for both people and the environment.”
Rendle Williams, External Communications Manager (Qld), explained what the success of that this facility represents: “The Salvation Army across the world is possibly the largest collector of secondhand clothing globally, and as the volume of unsellable clothing rises, this Queensland world-first facility is a direct commitment to being part of the solution.”
Government support
The Queensland Government has invested $4.97 million in the project, supporting Salvos Stores to establish this cutting-edge circular economy textile hub in Brisbane.
“The Crisafulli Government has supported the delivery of this Australian-first facility that will turn today’s waste into tomorrow’s products,” Minister Powell said.
“This facility will reduce the amount of textile waste going to landfill, but it will also unlock new economic opportunities and support Queensland’s transition to a sustainable economy.
“We recognise the critical need for waste infrastructure in Queensland, and we are taking action to deliver it through this new nation-leading facility … at the end of the day, this wouldn't have happened without the Salvos so thank you so very much and congratulations for an outstanding achievement. Well done.”
(Left) Nic Baldwin, Head of Stores, and Major David Collinson on site at the new Textile Recovery Facility. (Right) Colonel John Chamness addresses the official opening of the new facility.
After the speeches, Colonel Chamness cut the ribbon to officially open the Textile Recovery Facility, before all those attending were given a guided tour to see the machinery and how it all works.
Major David Collinson, Executive Officer, Mission - Salvos Stores, shared that the opening was an exciting part of the facility’s journey that has been “a few years” in the making. “Some of our team went overseas to see similar facilities and brought the dream back to Australia,” he said. “To have a not-for-profit take it on was awesome.
“And the sponsorship from the Queensland Government shows the strength of The Salvation Army brand and the trust they have in us. It’s all about what it means for our work with those impacted by alcohol and other drugs, family and domestic violence, and homelessness. We hope we can continue to help more Australians.
“And we hope that many volunteers will find community or a home here, as they find them in our shops. For another cohort, we hope that this can be their new place and the home and community they find can transform their lives by being part of the team.
“The dream continues.”
Click through the slideshow for more photos from the official opening:
