A Legacy of Warmth
As the nights grow longer and the air turns crisp, many of us reach for the comfort of a warm blanket. For 150 years, Waverley Woollen Mills in Tasmania has been weaving these comforting companions, making it the oldest continuously operating textile mill of its kind in Australia.
Founded in 1874 by Scottish-born farmer Peter Bulman, the mill initially produced a variety of textiles, from tweed and flannel to felted cloth. However, it was their blankets that truly established Waverley as a household name. Access to abundant Tasmanian wool, water, and hydro-electricity provided a significant advantage for the mill.
Waverley's success was also fueled by their adept marketing and ability to adapt to changing trends. They were among the first in Australia to manufacture electric blankets in 1961. However, the arrival of the doona in the 1970s posed a challenge.
Despite facing difficulties, including the Great Depression, World Wars, and the decline of Australian textile manufacturing, Waverley persevered. During World War II, they even produced 600,000 army blankets for the Department of Defence.
In recent years, Waverley has faced further challenges, including the loss of a major contract with Qantas and increased competition from synthetics and imports. However, through a multi-million dollar investment in modernization and a renewed focus on traceability and partnerships with Tasmanian woolgrowers, the mill is forging ahead.
Today, Waverley produces around 40,000 blankets annually, using 40 tonnes of wool. They have also stopped using synthetic materials in their products. With a commitment to quality, sustainability, and direct consumer engagement, Waverley Woollen Mills is poised to continue its legacy of warmth for generations to come.