Walking the Talk: Wendy Steindl on toxins, textiles and making change happen
Wendy Steindl doesn’t just talk sustainability — she lives it, every single day. Whether she’s helping someone swap out toxic products, running her pre-loved clothing market Sweet Repeats, or picking up rubbish on a solo beach walk.
And that is why she was named as a finalist in the Health and Wellbeing Warrior as part of the JSP Women’s Awards 2025.
“In 2016, a friend asked about the wooden toothbrush in my bathroom, and I started talking… and talking!” she laughs. “That conversation made me realise how many people just don’t know the impact some products have on their health or the planet.”
That cup of tea became the catalyst for Healthy Clean and Green, Wendy’s low-tox, eco-conscious business and market stall. Launched in 2017, it focuses on helping people make better, low-waste choices without the overwhelm or guilt.
“As I’d learn about something better, I’d make the change. It just felt like the right thing to do,” Wendy says. “And when my kids came along, I got serious about removing toxins from our home.”
As Wendy’s mission grew, so did her frustration — the environmental message wasn’t reaching far enough. So, in 2023, Wendy launched Sweet Repeats, a pre-loved clothing market designed to tackle fast fashion waste and support community wellbeing.
“I started it for the planet, but it’s become so much more,” she says. “People come to earn a little extra money, to shop affordably, to connect. I’ve had conversations with people who found the perfect outfit for a job interview or eased Christmas stress with a thoughtful $5 gift.”
Wendy has also brought in groups like Orange Sky, Mackay City Girl Guides and Soroptimist Club to use the event as a fundraiser. “It’s community helping community, while being kind to the planet. I love that!”
“Empowerment is being true to myself.”
Wendy says her sense of empowerment didn’t fully kick in until her 30s — and she’s proud to be a work in progress.
“Before that I was a people-pleaser, trying to fit in, conforming. Now I live life on my terms. And I want other women to know their choices matter — individually and collectively.”
She encourages others through conversations, not perfection. “If I forget my reusable coffee cup, I go without. It’s not about being extreme. It’s about living aligned with your values.
“I don’t see myself as inspirational,” Wendy says. “But I lead by example. I’m honest that life isn’t always easy. I celebrate other women. I cheer loudly. I tell them when I love their dress or their vibe. I listen. And I hug!”
Wendy’s strength is quiet, consistent and generous — the kind that reminds others that yes, one person can make a difference. And when more people start walking the same way, that difference becomes a movement.