'I was told I was too old to get a job anywhere else': Building new business

Ms Walkley has established her Pearl Blakk brand which aims to provide ethical, Australian made, natural fibre clothing.

It features printed artwork by independent Australian Artists with a major focus on providing work for 'ageing' women.

Whendi was part of the Enterprise and Training Company (ETC) MySmallBiz Expo at Ballina RSL Club on April 16.

"I was one of those older seamstresses who couldn't find work and I was told I was too old to get a job anywhere else," Whendi said.

"I felt like I needed to do something for myself and this is what I felt inspired to do."

Whendi previously ran her own store in the Starcourt Arcade before moving to Victoria to look after her parents.

She returned to Lismore a few years ago and has spent the last 12 months building the Pearl Blakk brand.

She wants to provide wholesale options to small boutiques across the region.

"In a previous incarnation I used to do alterations and repairs," she said.

"The early response has been good.

"I'm waiting for some of the patterns to come back for the clothing.

"The textiles we use are all natural fibers and printed in Bali by an Oeko-Tex 100 certified Digital Printer.

"I was so excited when I visited the printer in Bali and discovered the printing and work practices in place were compatible with our own ethics.

"Together we can produce garments which are not only beautiful, but are also not harmful to humans or the planet."

The certification means that there are no harmful chemicals in the textile.

The printing ink is re-used and no dyes or toxic chemicals are released into the water ways of Bali.

Whendi was thankful for the ETC event.

She said it was a great opportunity to network with other like minded business people.

The day involved guest speakers who showcased their business ventures with advice and idea sharing.