This special showcase marks 160 years of manufacturing history and celebrates the enduring impact of Hirst's vision on the region's design and innovation landscape.
The Museum and the City of Greater Geelong congratulate Godfrey Hirst on this milestone and acknowledge the significant contributions to the exhibition from the City's collection, the Hirst Family, and Godfrey Hirst's own archives. The display features rare objects, photographs, and curiosities that reflect the company's deep roots in Geelong's industrial heritage.
As a UNESCO City of Design, Geelong is proud to support this exhibition, which bridges the city's historic textile foundations with its future in sustainable manufacturing and global innovation. Godfrey Hirst's commitment to excellence and craftsmanship helped shape Geelong into the creative hub it is today.
Mayor Stretch Kontelj OAM
Geelong's legacy of textile innovation is woven into the city's identity, and Godfrey Hirst stands as a cornerstone of that story. As a UNESCO City of Design, we celebrate exhibitions like Made in Geelong: Godfrey Hirst, which honour our industrial heritage while showcasing the evolution of design, sustainability, and storytelling through materials. This exhibition reflects the creative ingenuity and community values that continue to shape our region.
Padraic Fisher, National Wool Museum Director
The National Wool Museum is proud to partner with Godfrey Hirst to share the story of Geelong's first textile company. Through a rich collection of objects, photographs, and personal accounts drawn from the City's collections, Godfrey Hirst's South Geelong archives and family memorabilia, this exhibition highlights the power of design, and the profound impact one individual can have on a community.
Tania Pauling, President Oceania Godfrey Hirst
This milestone belongs to our people, our partners, and our city. From the mills to the design studio, their skill and pride have carried Godfrey Hirst for 160 years—and they're the reason we're so confident about the future we're building in Geelong.
About Geelong – UNESCO City of Design
Geelong was designated a UNESCO City of Design in 2017, joining a global network of cities committed to using creativity and design as strategic tools for sustainable urban development. With a strong foundation in manufacturing and textiles, Geelong continues to foster innovation through design across industry, education, and community. This ongoing commitment reflects the city's evolving identity and its vision for a more sustainable and inclusive future.
Special event
Printed/Woven/Tufted
Open daily until 1 February 2026
Step into the world of carpet through this interactive display. Inspired by the making process and created especially for the young and young at heart, Printed/Woven/Tufted will offer everyone the chance to try their hand at carpet design.
Exhibition details
MADE IN GEELONG: Godfrey Hirst
National Wool Museum
Open until 1 February 2026.
Open daily 10.00am-5.00pm. Closed Christmas Day and Boxing Day.
Exhibition tickets available at the door. Event bookings via www.nwm.vic.gov.au
