Government boost

SYDNEY: The New South Wales government has doubled its investment in Mercedes Benz Australian Fashion Week. Minister for Tourism and Sport and Recreation, Sandra Nori announced a $1.25 million 5-year partnership with IMG FASHION Asia Pacific. Since the creation of fashion week in 1996, the government has provided $650,000 to date.

Jewellery change
BRISBANE:Organisers of Brisbane's JAA Australian Jewellery Fair have changed the date of the event to March 18 to 19, 2007. The move will allow exhibitors to attend larger fairs in China, Bangkok and Hong Kong before heading down to exhibit their wares at the Brisbane Convention and Exhibition Centre. For more: 02 9452 7575.

Incubator renamed
MELBOURNE: The hothouse for emerging designers formerly known as MDFI (Melbourne Design Fashion Incubator) has changed its name to The Fashion Incubator. Operating from expanded premises in CBD shopping centre Melbourne Central the rebranded launch pad will officially open its enhanced retail gallery on May 10.

Motherhood rocks
MELBOURNE: Ex-rocker Ruby Ray - formerly of British band Caine - has launched a maternity label including tees priced at $89 and long sleeved tops or hoodies priced at $99. The range, available in black, grey, camouflage print, white and red - features slogans including Love Hurts, Dangereux, Mothers Do It Better and All You Need is Love. Available online at bellybutton.com.au or at Belly Button boutiques.

Vive la France
PARIS: Leading international fashion event Texworld Trade show will be held from September 18 to 21 in the CNIT & Espace Grande Arche, Paris. The expo will feature showcases of emerging fabrics and trends for Autumn/Winter (northern hemisphere) 2007/08. For more: doris.schnyder@germany.org.au

Lyon's share
FRANCE: The organisers of leading lingerie and beachwear trade fair Lyon Mode City - scheduled to take place in the renowned French city from September 2 to 4 - have unveiled a revamped structure for the event. The revamp means that for the first time the expo will be divided into market segments, to include: Diva Nautic - feminine beachwear; Beach Mania - cutting edge collections; Win Dream - sportswear influenced collections; Icone - top fashions from beach to boudoir; S