ON a cold March morning, a group of Probus members and friends boarded a coach at Whittlesea to visit a colder place to the west situated in the Great Dividing Range.
The destination was Creswick where the Creswick Woollen Mills tour and factory outlet was the planned activity followed by a luncheon at The American Hotel.
Chef-de-mission Alessandra Testa, coach manager Alec and the tour guide Jason Carter took the chill off the day and provided an interesting and informative sojourn.
The pioneer settlers were Henry, Charles and John Creswick, three brothers who started a large sheep station in 1842 and the town became Creswick. The population reached a peak of 25,000 during the gold rush.
Today, local industries include forestry, grazing and agriculture with a number of retained 19th and 20th century historic buildings including the hotel where the group lunched.
The overcast and chilly day improved as the group arrived at Creswick Woollen Mills, a place filled with stories woven into every thread and history stitched into every blanket. Established by the founder, Paul Ryzowy, back in 1947, it was a major new industry for the district. Many global innovations in the manufacture of wool fabrics were introduced by Mr Ryzowy.
Mr Ryzowy was born in 1912 in Poland, a country set in traditions. When he was 27 and studying in Warsaw with the shadows of war descending, Paul sought safety and refuge from the chaos. He left behind his home country and family embarking on a journey, aboard a cattle ship. After the war, Paul set his sights on Australia, and on October 1, 1947, he established Creswick Woollen Mills, which was to become known for its commitment to quality and craftsmanship.
Starting with blankets made from recycled wool, Creswick Woollen Mills quickly adapted to new trends by embracing innovation and expanding its offerings. The introduction of electric blanket fabric in the 1950s marked a milestone. By the 1960s, Creswick Woollen Mills had become more than just a manufacturer. Paul Ryzowy was setting trends, providing fabric for blazers and skirts, and other unique creations.
The tour guide Jason took the assembled visitors through the factory and explained the detail of each subset of graphic panorama that guides visitors from go to whoa. Whilst the Creswick mill no longer weaves fabric the original spinning and carting machinery is still able to be engaged if required.
There is much to see in the displays but one stand out was the world’s longest picnic rug, measuring 100 meters long and weighing 120 kilograms. Other notable innovations are CFA fire blankets and world exclusive alpaca blankets. Natural fibres are blended with wool to produce magnificent garments.
The secret to success is the commitment to using only natural fibres, each selected for its special qualities and unmatched comfort. The classic allure of Mother Nature’s abundance is demonstrated in products, which combine the opulent softness of cashmere with the cosy warmth of alpaca.
A bit like a well-known Scandinavian retailer the factory tour leads into the outlet shop without opportunity to escape. But the expansive display of manufactured goods kept guests busy until it was time to move on for lunch.
Built in 1858, the days of gold and glory, the American Hotel stands today as a unique link with Victoria’s gracious and colourful heritage. The American Hotel is renowned for its great food, excellent wines, romantic accommodation and gracious function rooms.