Southern New England Landcare hosted the sold-out Knitting with Resilience workshop in Walcha on August 10th, where 26 attendees from Gunnedah to Coffs Harbour crafted their own Merino wool throws.
The workshop, delivered by the inspiring Sam Longmore from Ohh Bulldust, focused on resilience, community, and creating supportive networks.
‘Samantha was so inspiring, a courageous beautiful person’, said local attendee Helen Wake.
After being paralysed on one side following a car accident in 2013, Sam devised a method of knitting that allowed her to knit using only one hand.
‘She helped us all with our knitting project and we went home with a chunky wool, warm throw which we were all thrilled with’, said Helen.
During the workshop, Sam guided participants in making their own Merino wool throw and shared her personal journey of resilience, offering insights and encouragement for their own struggles.
‘Sam conveyed sensitivity and support for all participants, she gave generously with her time and created a positive learning culture,’ said Elizabeth Rosser, Landcare Coordinator with Southern New England Landcare.
‘We wanted this workshop to be a place where people took some time for themselves, nurtured their creativity, and connected with others,’ said Elizabeth.
‘It was about more than knitting; it was about building a supportive community and sharing resilience,’ she added.
The workshops were designed to help attendees cultivate patience, creativity, and a sense of accomplishment.
‘Sam’s story is so inspiring, and participants left the day feeling fulfilled,’ said Elizabeth.
Elizabeth said ‘The popularity of the workshops and the distance people travelled highlights emphasises the need in our communities for workshops that create social connections’.
Knitting with Resilience was the first in a series of workshops funded by the Foundation for Rural and Regional Renewal (FRRR) Community Connection for Outlying Areas grant for the Walcha Community.
For more information and information on upcoming events please visit https://snelandcare.org.au/ or call 02 6772 9123 to learn more.
This event is supported by FRRR, through funding from the Australian Government’s Future Drought Fund and the NSW Landcare Program.
