[CDU eNews] - CDU STAFF FASHION ARAFURA GAMES OUTFITS

[Peter.Hurt at cdu.edu.au]

CDU staff fashion Games outfits

Charles Darwin University fashion staff will look on with pride when the
Arafura Games open on Saturday . . . they helped make the costumes.

Fashion Studies coordinator Armida Monteith said staff had prepared and
plotted the cutting layouts for the opening ceremony, including more than
80 pairs of happy pants ranging from size 8 to 18, a wrap skirt pattern and
more than 540 flags.

Items have been bulk cut and sent to local manufacturers who have sewed the
garments and flags

Mrs Monteith said staff used the  Gerber AccuMark patternmaking system, a
computer-based software program, that carries out the grading calculations
and automated marking that designers usually have to do by hand.

Students studying for a Certificate IV in Clothing Production and for a
Diploma in Textile Clothing and Footwear are being trained in the use of
this state-of-the-art technology, giving them an edge in their preparation
for working in the fashion industry.

"It is good for the students to be involved in a real and practical
application of the equipment," Mrs Monteith said.

The fashion studies department offers a bureau service to local businesses
and industry.

"This is a business initiative for fashion studies and a way for us to be
more involved with the community at large," Mrs Monteith said.

"Sailmakers, upholsterers, motor trimmers and boat outfitters are just some
of the industries that could benefit from this service. Anything that needs
a shape, template or pattern cut could benefit from the Gerber system."

Athletes from more than 30 countries in the Asia-Pacific region will take
part in the Games, at the Marrara Sports Complex from Sunday 15 May to
Saturday 21 May. The opening ceremony will be held on Saturday 14 May.

Armida Monteith is available for interview


Peter Hurt
Media Manager
Charles Darwin University
Tel: 08 8946 6019 or 0438 466 439

CRICOS Provider No: 00300K