By Molly Magennis
The MV Steve Irwin Williamstown will host a ‘sustainable Santa’ market, championing locally made, sustainable products.
Retiring in 2018, the ship was the flagship of Sea Shepherd, a conservation activism organisation which is aimed at protecting the ocean from exploitation and pollution.
On the weekend of December 18 -19, a sustainable market will be held aboard the ship, showcasing local traders with small businesses, many of whom were founded during COVID.
Event organiser Kerrie Goodall said she’s rounded up 10 fantastic brands, including Peppa Candles made in Williamstown, Candi from Love Candi Polish and BoofHead Bites dog treats.
“They’re sustainable, they’re locally manufactured and they look wonderful so we wanna support locally made, obviously that’s one of the best ecological choices that you can do.”
“It’s just encouraging people to come down to the ship and have a look at some of these products and to sort of wind up the year in a lovely environment.”
The ship also features a wood fired pizza oven, and will be serving plant based food. All food and beverages will be locally sourced. Ms Goodall said the ship itself is working towards zero waste.
“[It] is challenging but we’re almost there. We can have 80 people on the ship and have less than a small wheelie bin of rubbish.”
Sunday will feature music from the former lead singer of Magic Dirt, Adalita. This event will serve as a fundraiser for the ship, who as a non-for-profit, struggled during covid as they were ineligible to receive government support.
“We encourage people to come along, support young artists and the ship and local producers,” Ms Goodall said.
“It’s all about championing locals and having a bit of fun.”
Tickets to get onto the ship will be $5 on Saturday and Sunday, and $20 entry to Adalita’s performance on Sunday.
Details: www.ship4good.com.au
