20/02/2026
I started my career in fashion working
for brands that produced their product locally. I loved the hands on aspect of local production, the ability to work in person with suppliers and makers, to problem solve at the drop of a hat when issues arose in production. So it was a delight and a privilege to participate in the Ethical Manufacturers Tour hosted by Ethical Clothing Australia today.
A bus load visited 3 local manufacturers that are ECA accredited. Thanks to the team - Georgia, Brighid Donovan and Mary for organising it all.
We started our tour at State in Thornbury, thanks Chloe, next onto Wilderness Wear in Preston, thanks John and finally to Humphrey Law in Heathmont, thanks Rio and Skye. All have their time and shared knowledge generously.
The tour was educational, from both how hard it is to continue making locally from the perspective of skill gaps, but it was great to see in action, how small businesses can pivot, improve with niche market technology and make a unique selling point to challenge big corporations.
Thanks again Ethical Clothing Australia
