The Bower Re-Use And Repair Centre Co-Operative

The Bower Re-Use And Repair Centre Co-Operative is an award-winning environmental charity based in Sydney that champions the principles of reuse, repair, and waste reduction. Operating from multiple locations, it serves as a vibrant community hub where unwanted household goods and building materials are reclaimed, repaired, and resold to extend their lifecycle and reduce landfill waste. The organisation also offers a diverse range of workshops and repair services, fostering skills and awareness around sustainable living and the circular economy.

Mission and Vision

The Bower’s mission is to lead in creating a circular economy by diverting waste from landfill through the reclamation and reuse of household items and building materials. It aims to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and the ecological footprint by decreasing the demand for new raw materials. The organisation also focuses on community education by promoting repair and reuse skills through workshops and repair cafes. Its vision encompasses building a sustainable future where environmental responsibility and social welfare are integrated, supporting vulnerable and disadvantaged groups.

Main Objectives

• Reduce landfill waste by reclaiming and repairing household goods and building materials.
• Promote education through workshops on furniture repair, carpentry, upholstery, and DIY skills.
• Support social welfare by providing affordable goods and services to low-income households, domestic violence survivors, refugees, and people experiencing homelessness.
• Generate local employment and community engagement through cooperative ownership and volunteer involvement.
• Foster partnerships with councils, businesses, and community organisations to expand impact.

Benefiting Groups

• Low-income families and individuals seeking affordable household goods.
• Survivors of domestic violence and refugees requiring support to establish homes.
• People experiencing homelessness who benefit from programs like House to Home.
• Community members interested in learning repair and sustainable living skills.
• Local councils and environmental advocates collaborating to reduce waste.

Services and Activities

• Retail stores offering reclaimed and repaired furniture, building supplies, and household items at affordable prices.
• Repair cafes and workshops where skilled technicians assist with fixing furniture, bicycles, electrical appliances, and sewing machines.
• Hands-on courses including furniture restoration, upholstery, carpentry, home DIY, and the unique Build a Tiny House program using reclaimed materials.
• Collection services for unwanted goods from households and small businesses to divert items from landfill.
• Donations acceptance to support ongoing operations and community programs.