Fairbridge

MORE colourful pieces were patched to the story that makes up Fairbridge when quilting and patchwork clubs from across WA congregated at the village. Their annual get together of 17 years attracteds more than 200 crafty people. All were keen to experience the charm of Fairbridge and its newly renovated cottages and to make a difference in the lives of young people.

Honouring a time-old tradition, the talented quilters again donated handmade quilts to the non-profit village. The 25 donated quilts will adorn beds in the revamped Livingstone cottage, which is built to Australian standards for people with disabilities.
Fairbridge chief executive Mark Anderson said the quilts would make the cottages homely for the families, students, adventure-seekers, holidaymakers and conference guests that visited.

“We want to continue the principles of Fairbridge founder Kingsley Fairbridge, whose aim was to create a home for Fairbridge children – not an institution,” Mr Anderson said. “We want the thousands of village guests that come through every year to have that same experience of warmth and community – not just of having another holiday.”
Mr Anderson also expressed his thanks for a beautiful quilt lovingly crafted by Pinjarra Patchwork ladies that was raffled off to raise money for Fairbridge activities, which include programs for disadvantaged youths.

“Over the years, many different people have been a part of Fairbridge – their stories together form the woven history of Fairbridge,” Mr Anderson said. Pinjarra Patchwork member Careth Tebbit said her own history was closely woven into that of Fairbridge.

Ms Tebbit lived at Fairbidge for 13 years, from 1966 until 1979 and brought up her five children in the village while her husband worked as the village school principal.
“My memories are of children loving this place,” Ms Tebbit said. “Fairbridge is such a wonderful place in that it has always given kids a new life and a new experience.”
Fairbridge is the only charity in Australia that owns a whole nationally heritage listed village dedicated to providing positive change in the lives of young people in need and the community through a holistic approach and ongoing support.