Mernda repair cafe open for works

Electrical repairer John Donnelly (supplied)

The Mernda Repair Cafe is opening its doors for its monthly session on Saturday, July 15, from 10am to 2pm.

The repair cafe is a part of the Mernda Community House and allows locals to bring broken goods to be fixed by a team of volunteers.

On Saturday there will be two bike repairers, a garment repairer, a shoe repairer, someone helping with phone and computer tech, and an electrician to deal with appliances.

Repair cafe co-ordinator Maylei Hunt said it’s an amazing community initiative.

“Our aim is to assist and educate about repairs, and it’s a great way to save money,” she said.

“We have an amazing group of volunteer repairers and help staff.

“[It’s all about] saving money and saving the environment.”

The repairs are free to locals and range from 30 minutes to an hour where people will be educated on how to repair the goods.

Its close proximity to the local train station and bus stops make it a popular destination with anywhere from 25-40 people coming per four hour session.

Ms Hunt said that if it wasn’t for council support, donations and volunteer work, the cafe would cease to exist.

“The program needs to be funded,” she said.

“The [Whittlesea council] grant has allowed us to continue and offer the service.”

Details- events.humanitix.com/mernda-repair-cafe-july-2023

Harper Sercombe