Since the shop has closed, Ann has continued to work on the label, and has changed the name to 'lightfoot'.

Ann changed the name because another larger company started using exactly the same name, and even wrote it in the same way. Although 'bird' was Trademarked by Ann, "because they were a much bigger organisation they had the power to override this" Ann said. However Ann feels that 'lightfoot' suits the new mood well.

With an art school background, Ann has always had an obsession with fashion and denim and creating the label was a way to merge her art and business.

The label currently consists of handprinted fabric bags, Tee's and Hoodys produced here in Braidwood. Ann likes to keep the production local with local sewers making the product. Each piece is individually hand printed.

The focus is on limited edition runs, mainly using denim, a fabric which represents the ethos behind the creations, which are available at Studio Altenburg.

Ann is now working in Sydney with designer Katie Pye and spends her time between Sydney, where contacts and business is generated, and Braidwood where her inspiration comes from and the production is based. She has recently relocated her studio to a heritage cottage which also influences her creations.

'lightfoots' next range is due to be launched in October in Sydney and locally at Studio Altenburg. The range consists of new coloured denims on the form of belts, vests, skirts and exciting new bag designs.

Things are moving forward with the label, but Ann feels that keeping her grounding in the country is an important part of her working process. "The space that Braidwood allow me contributes to the artistic existence" she says.

Ann's Sydney experience has also led to her co-designing a range of jewellery for Amanda Garrett, a Sydney based designer.

As much as she enjoys the city, Ann continually likes to get out into the country. "The support of the local community has been important to me. They are always a good gauge and will tell you things straight up. They are also very encouraging, which is the privilege of a small community" Ann says.

An has also got a website up and running at www.lightfootparade.com