Melbourne & Olympic Parks (M&OP) is putting Victorian businesses first with its new uniform design, collaborating with RMIT University and Melbourne-based uniform supplier Cargo Crew to produce a range which is ethically sourced, and invests in local manufacturing.
Celebrating the union of form and function, the new uniforms merge fashion, utility, and a sporting sensibility to create a suite of exceptional ‘sportsluxe’ garments.
“Our existing uniform had been in place for 20 years, so we wanted to create something which felt fresh, and more than functional workwear – something which makes everyone in our team feel part of the precinct,” M&OP’s Head of People Experience, Taryn Evans said.
“With the unique design and bold new branding, we’ve been able to create a uniform which not only echoes the built form of our venues but reflects the precinct’s place as Australia’s home of live sport and entertainment.”
The design of the new uniform has been a collaborative effort, initiated by an M&OP-led Industry Partnered Project with RMIT’s School of Fashion and Textiles.
After conceptualising, designing, and pitching their ideas, students Lili McKenzie and Talia Rubenstein were awarded the opportunity to collaborate with M&OP and have their range developed by Cargo Crew.
“Collaborating with M&OP has given our students the opportunity to work on a real-life brief from start to finish, providing them with invaluable professional experience in the art of uniform design” RMIT University’s Senior Manager, Partnerships and Industry Engagement, College of Design & Social Context, Kiri Delly said.
“It’s incredible for our students to have their design brought to life, and to now see it worn at such an iconic Melbourne destination.”
Reflecting M&OP’s commitment to investing in the Victorian economy, the project has prioritised investment in local manufacturing, with eighty per cent of the budget committed to Victorian businesses.
More than $1 million has already been invested in local manufacturing over the course of the project, with ongoing orders ensuring this figure will grow and continue to contribute to the Victorian economy.
“This project will continue to benefit Victorian businesses into the future, and we are proud of the contribution M&OP is making to the local economy,” Ms Evans said.
“The ongoing collaboration between RMIT, Cargo Crew and M&OP sets the benchmark for these types of projects, while the support we’ve had from Creative Victoria and Sport and Recreation Victoria has enabled us to develop a uniform which our staff love to wear, and which represents who we are.”