Retro market has mod niche
Recycling and re-use messages are fuelling a vintage revival in Perth by encouraging people to incorporate old treasures into everyday life.
For lovers of bygone eras such as Michelle Kolk, an old Sunbeam Mixmaster is much more valuable than a shiny appliance straight out of a department store.
Ms Kolk, owner of The Vintage Collective Markets, said the push for recycling in recent times boosted the popularity of relics.
"We find that people are starting to use vintage as a recycling, upcycling, re-use and re-purpose type of thing now," Ms Kolk said.
"A lot of people love the pre-1970s era because it goes back to a time when things were a bit calmer, a bit safer and a bit more community minded."
The markets attract thousands of people with an interest in the rockabilly and vintage scenes for a day of stalls, shows and entertainment.
The next free market will be at Oakover Wines in Middle Swan on Sunday and will include a pin-up parade and vintage caravan show.
Ms Kolk said she hoped the event would encourage people to take their vintage finds out of the cupboard and put them to good use.
Her own daily routine included a cup of tea from an old tea set that belonged to her grandmother.
"There is no reason beautiful objects can't look pretty and be used every day," she said. "One of the biggest thrills people get is when they find something and they know it's about 50 years old but still going strong."
