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From equestrian fields to fashion runways: Geraldine Heath wins at the Ekka
For TAFE Queensland fashion student Geraldine Heath, taking out first place at the 2025 Ekka Wearable Art competition was more than a creative triumph - it was the culmination of a lifelong dream that took an unexpected path.
Currently completing her Certificate III in Apparel, Fashion and Textiles (MST31022) at TAFE Queensland’s Fashion Centre of Excellence at Mt Gravatt, Geraldine says her studies gave her the technical knowledge and confidence to bring her bold design to life.
Inspired by the nursery rhyme Banbury Cross, her winning garment was made from 95% upcycled and recycled materials, including garments, paper, chicken wire, an old mop handle, and fabric embellishments.
The result was an equestrian-inspired look with surreal, theatrical elements that she describes as “layers of ridiculousness” - a playful, immersive piece that revealed new details the longer you looked.
“The training I’ve received from TAFE Queensland allowed me to draft my own patterns, alter recycled garments, and apply design drawing and construction skills directly into this project,” Geraldine explained.
“The support I received from my teachers was overwhelming in the most positive way. They helped me refine patterns, guided me through construction challenges, and gave me so much motivation. It was truly wonderful.”
Geraldine’s journey into fashion has been anything but ordinary. After graduating high school in 1988, she spent more than two decades working in the equestrian industry before pursuing studies in education and counselling.
But in 2020, while completing her master’s in counselling, she was diagnosed with a complex autoimmune disease.
This turning point ignited her creative passion and led her to TAFE Queensland.
“I’ve always loved making my own clothes and styling upcycled pieces, but I’d lost so much knowledge over the years,” she said.
“Coming to TAFE Queensland has allowed me to rebuild those skills and discover the world of wearable art.”
With an Ekka win under her belt, Geraldine is setting her sights on bigger stages.
She’s preparing for the WAVE Wearable Art competition in Mullumbimby later this year, the Australian Wearable Art competition on the Sunshine Coast in 2026, and ultimately the international World of Wearable Art (WOW) in New Zealand by 2027.
She also hopes to build a small business in upcycled fashion and teach fashion history and design one day.
“Winning at the Ekka feels like the beginning of an incredible journey. Wearable art has opened up a whole new world of opportunity, and I can’t wait to see where it leads,” Geraldine concluded.