Who is Illawarra's greatest upcycler? Reviva comp will decide

November 4, 2025

Who is Illawarra’s greatest upcycler? Reviva comp will decide

The Illawarra Flame

Calling creative upcyclers! Turn trash into treasure and enter Reviva’s annual Reviva Reuse Competition. There are cash prizes up for grabs – but be quick as entries close on November 15.

“This competition is the highlight of our year because it showcases the incredible ideas and talents in our community," says Samantha Nixon, manager of Illawarra’s Reviva Reuse Shop at Dunmore’s Waste Management Centre.

Story: Lesley Roulston

Past entries have featured everything from repurposed computer parts to intricate mosaic art made from broken tiles, and even mud kitchens made from upcycled materials. This year there is a national prize of a $300 Visa card, as well as a $200 Visa card for the local winner.

Last year's local winner, Fiona Jordan from Unanderra, created a stunning outdoor room from upcycled materials, including doors and plantation shutters that she collected from Reviva over six years.

Decorated in neutrals to create a calming atmosphere, the outdoor room has proved to be their winter happy place. Fiona often uses it as a yoga room or as a comfy spot for a cuppa when friends drop round. A day bed and an egg chair are the perfect spots to curl up for a good read or a snooze.

"I wanted a warm winter space with plenty of sunlight where I could sit and chill out," says Fiona.