The St Vincent de Paul Society in Australia has more than 60,000 members and volunteers, who work hard to assist people in need and combat social injustice across Australia. Internationally, the Society operates in 153 countries and has over 800,000 members.

As part of their class, QHS students were on a mission to pick 1 recycled item from the store to use as the main component in the design of creating a 'new' upcycled project.

There are roughly 20 staff volunteers at the Quirindi branch, without whom, this community service couldn't function.

A percentage of the clothing in the store is sorted and sent to the Armidale recycling centre to be sent to third world countries. Items that are not able to be sold or reused, are turned into rags for local businesses to purchase. The local centre also offers battery replacements on most types of watches on Thursdays for free.

As well as selling bric-a-brac, clothing, and basic household items, the Quirindi chapter of St Vincent de Paul also has a 'Conference' Centre, where struggling local community members with varied types of hardship - including the need for food, furniture, financial assistance or general care and support can seek assistance.

Drought affected families, our those who have fallen on hard times or have just moved to town with little possessions, can access the Vinnies conference centre to seek assistance for their individual needs.

During the QHS visit, approximately five packed trolley loads were being trucked to the Armidale facility for re-processing.

"We extend our sincere thank you to all volunteers and helpers that support our local centre and a special thank you to Margaret, Anita (pictured) and Joanne who helped us make our purchases today and were so inspirational for our students," said Head Teacher TAS, Mrs Cowan.