C.E.O’s Call to Action via BMA Belting’s Volunteering for Salvation Army's "Project Boomerang"

Queensland, Australia — BMA Belting has announced its enthusiastic involvement in the Salvation Army’s innovative Project Boomerang, a pioneering initiative aimed at establishing a circular economy for textiles in South-East Queensland. The project, developed through a partnership with the Salvation Army and funded by the Queensland Government, is set to revolutionise textile waste management in Australia.

At the heart of Project Boomerang is the installation of a state-of-the-art textile recycling plant at Carole Park. This facility will be the first of its kind in Australia, featuring an automated textiles sorting and decontamination system inspired by a successful model currently operating in Amsterdam.

In a remarkable display of corporate responsibility and community support, BMA Belting has announced its vital involvement in the Salvation Army’s groundbreaking Project Boomerang.

Recently, the Salvation Army reached out to BMA Belting for assistance with installing, tracking, and tensioning new belts on their textile sortation lines. The initial engagement involved a formal quote for the necessary services. However, when news of the quote request reached BMA Belting’s CEO, Mark Jeries, he was moved to act decisively.

Without any prior public announcement or expectation, Jeries made an extraordinary declaration to his senior staff:

“All services towards the Salvation Army and Project Boomerang will be provided by BMA Belting at no cost.”

Behind this generous gesture lies a deeply personal connection — Mark Jeries and his family have been avid supporters and donors to the Salvation Army for over 40 years. His longstanding commitment to the charity has fostered a strong sense of responsibility and compassion, which he chose to act upon in this moment.

Thanks to Jeries’ decisive leadership, BMA Belting’s skilled service technicians volunteered their time and expertise to assist with the installation and commissioning of the new textile sortation lines. This support was provided entirely free of charge, ensuring the project could move forward smoothly and efficiently without additional financial burden.

“Supporting the Salvation Army and Project Boomerang is a cause close to my heart,” Jeries stated. “Our company’s values align with the mission of the Salvation Army — helping those in need and promoting sustainability. I believe it’s our duty to contribute where we can, and I’m proud that BMA Belting can play a part in this transformative initiative.”

The installation of the textile recycling plant at Carole Park will be a game-changer for Australia’s waste management landscape. Once operational, the plant will feature cutting-edge automation technology, including a system capable of sorting textiles by material type, removing buttons and zippers, and customising end products for recyclers’ specific needs. This facility will not only divert significant amounts of textile waste from landfills but will also serve as a model for sustainable practices nationwide.

BMA Belting’s involvement underscores its commitment to sustainability and community support. The company will play a vital role in supporting the project’s infrastructure, contributing to the development of the textile circular economy hub that aims to reduce textile waste, promote recycling, and create new economic opportunities in the region.

“Project Boomerang represents a major step forward in sustainable textile management in Australia,” said Meriel Chamberlin, Business Development Manager of the Salvation Army. “With the support of partners like BMA Belting, we are turning waste into valuable resources and creating a model for circular economy initiatives nationwide.”

When asked about the possibility of ongoing support from BMA Belting for the Salvation Army, Jeries added:

“Absolutely. The work that the Salvation Army undertakes in humanitarian aid, emergency relief, homelessness support, and programs for youth and families is commendable. It is only appropriate and just that BMA Belting continues to support them, without any financial obligation, to ensure the success of Project Boomerang. Doing so aligns with our values and sense of social responsibility.”

The Carole Park facility is anticipated to be fully operational within the next few months. As Australia’s first automated textile sorting plant, it promises to set a new standard for environmental innovation and community engagement.