Australian hatmaker Akubra is marking 50 years of hatmaking in the regional town of Kempsey, New South Wales with a limited edition release and local celebrations.
Akubra’s origins date back to 1876 when Benjamin Dunkerley established Kensington Hat Mills in Tasmania, and after decades based in Sydney, then owners the Keir family relocated to Kempsey in October 1974.
Kempsey is also the home of Australian country music icon Slim Dusty AO MBE, and to mark the anniversary Akubra is producing 200 limited edition ‘Slim Dusty’ hats – the same style worn by the local legend and ARIA hall of famer.
“Kempsey holds a special place in the heart of Australia as the home of Akubra and has played a key role in producing an icon that has come to represent the Australian identity worldwide,” Akubra CEO Natalie Culina said.
“For more than four decades, this community has been the lifeblood of Akubra’s production and there’s no better way to pay homage to Akubra’s Kempsey origins than to recognise another Kempsey legend and create a wearable piece of Australian history.”
Akubra was acquired by Andrew and Nicola Forrest’s private investment group Tattarang 11 months ago.
Dr Andrew Forrest AO said he remains committed to preserving the process, knowledge and skills at Akubra developed over many generations.
“What better way to celebrate one of Australia’s most iconic products than with a tip of our hat to our most iconic country music star,” he said.
“We will continue to make Akubras the traditional way, handmade in Australia, with a manufacturing process that passes through dozens of pairs of hands.”
Nicola Forrest AO said Tattarang is investing in future career pathways in Australian craftsmanship.
“Companies like Akubra are the backbone of regional communities and we are committed to creating employment and training opportunities and doing our part to help support vibrant regions,” she said.
“I grew up in regional New South Wales and my family and I have worn Akubras all our lives. There is no better place for Australia’s most iconic hat to be made than by the proud and skilled craftspeople in the Macleay Valley.”
While the 162-step production process remains unchanged, the business has recently invested in new machinery to support production, which will arrive early next year.
As a major employer for the region, Akubra will continue its focus on creating new jobs and training opportunities for future craftspeople.