Sunshine Coast creatives shine

Held at TAFE Queensland's Nambour campus, the Creative Showcase featured a gallery of work produced by TAFE Queensland’s local visual arts students throughout the course of their studies that was available to purchase, as well as a live fashion show exhibiting unique collections designed and created by graduating fashion students.

The free event will also included live entertainment, providing local art lovers and members of the public with the chance to engage with the artists and designers, admire their work, and enjoy a fun Friday evening while getting a glimpse of TAFE Queensland’s creative facilities.

Nineteen-year-old Chanel Keetley is amongst the Diploma of Apparel, Fashion and Textiles (MST50122) students whose designs made their premier on the runway during the showcase, and said she was excited to have the opportunity share her vision with others.

“I’ve always loved fashion and sewing—I used to sew Barbie clothes for my dolls when I was little—so I was really looking forward to seeing my designs on the runway and having the people I love get to see what I’m so passionate about, and what I’ve been working so hard towards,” Chanel said.

Crafted with natural fibres such as hemp, cotton, and linen, Chanel’s collection ‘The Sweet Escape’ offers a sustainable take on resort wear and features a day look, a beach look, and a dressier dinner look.   

“It’s all the looks you’d need if you’re having a weekend away somewhere, but I also wanted to ensure they work as everyday wear – a bit of luxury for everyday living,” she said.

“I want to own my own business and make quality clothes people can love forever, but with sustainability in mind, so my collection is inspired by nature, God’s creation and earth.

“I’m also really passionate about health, and I’ve seen so many studies about how the different fabrics you wear can have an effect on your health. As a beach girl, I’m always in my togs, so I thought it would be cool to try making swimwear out of something natural, which is what I’ve done using hemp.”

Fellow fashion student Bernie O’Donoghue also showcased her designs at the event.

A former interior designer from Ireland, Bernie had been working for Freedom Furniture in Sydney for 14 years prior to making the move to the Sunshine Coast with her husband and two daughters. But after her husband passed away last year, Bernie found herself seeking a creative outlet.

“I just needed to be creative again and show my girls that I was doing something,” Bernie said.

“I also wanted to do something flexible that will enable me to start my own business and work from home a bit more so I can help out my girls.”

After dipping her toe in with a Certificate II in Apparel, Fashion and Textiles (MST20722), Bernie was successful in applying for a TAFE Queensland Scholarship and continued on to the diploma, with the goal of improving and honing her skills further.

Taking inspiration from old navy and nautical themes, Bernie said it was a proud moment seeing her designs come to life.

“After last year and everything I’ve been through, I wanted to make my collection more playful and whimsical,” she said.

“I feel so lucky to have had my studies to be able to tap into my creativity, and it’s so good that TAFE gives us this opportunity. It’s really a chance for me to show my girls after a really hard time that I’ve still managed to do something and that life goes on.”