Friday, 26 July 2024: Sunset Lover and the Australian Fashion Council are just some of the fashion brands that have come together to save iconic Australian-owned mill, Silver Fleece to preserve the beautiful Australian artisan craft of knitting wool.
Sunset Lover founders Melanie and Dean Flintoft are leading the charge to revitalise the 73-year-old mill, saying that this is a perfect platform to produce the highly coveted Australian-Made product locally, with the staff and site ready to resume ASAP.
“In addition to current contracts, there is enormous opportunity for growth and expansion with some immediate investment, the right management who is experienced in fashion and can-do approach,” said Ms Flintoft.
Silver Fleece is equipped with state-of-the-art Japanese knitting machines, known in the industry as the best in the world. Existing contracts include the production of all Australian cricket team jumpers, corporate wear and school leaver jumpers for more than 75 schools across the country.
“These contracts have the mill operating at 50% of its overall capacity, so the potential for expansion is huge. When you think about corporate clients who must buy Australian-manufactured products and the rising demand for sustainable product, the opportunities are obvious, and Australian suppliers limited. Qantas, South Australian Police, the 10,000 Australian schools and 70,000 registered not-for-profit sporting clubs are just the tip of the iceberg,” said Ms Flintoft.
CEO of the Australian Fashion Council, Jaana Quaintance-James agreed saying that an investment in Silver Fleece represents a profound commitment to Australian manufacturing, our skilled female workforce, and the enduring legacy of our wool and textile industry.
“Supporting this heritage knitting mill not only fortifies the use of high-quality Australian wool yarn but also uplifts our local farmers, preserves the skills of our artisans, and can help reduce environmental impact. Silver Fleece is a testament to the excellence and resilience of Australian craftsmanship," Quaintance-James said.
Silver Fleece was established in 1951 and has a rich lineage of Australian craftsmanship and resilience. There are 20 skilled staff and technicians who work at the mill who are primarily women and include younger employees eager to learn and preserve the artisan craft.
“There is so much opportunity to revitalise this mill and we are seeking like-minded investors that care about local manufacturing to raise $1 million by COB Tuesday, 30 July to help save the jobs of these skilled workers, protect Australian craftmanship and long-term effects on the Australian wool industry.”
The Adelaide-based knitting mill entered administration last month, with a general meeting on 26 June 2024 resolving that the company be wound up. Daniel Lopresti and Simon Richard Miller have been appointed as liquidators. $1 million needs to be raised by Tuesday 30 July 2024 to save and reinvent this iconic Australian business.
To save Silver Fleece from liquidation and get involved or find out more, please contact Melanie Flintoft on [email protected]. ENDS.
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Website:
https://silverfleece.com.au/
Instagram:
https://www.instagram.com/silverfleece
Facebook:
https://www.facebook.com/SilverFleeceAUS
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