Protégé Program | Fashion from Fleece | M200 UK launch | M200 Italy launch

In 2007 the world is commemorating 200 years of achievements by the Australian wool industry – it was in 1807 that the first bale of Australian wool was sent to Britain with intention of commercial sale, thus establishing the Australian wool trade.

A number of activities have been coordinated to commemorate the milestone:

Fashion from Fleece - 200 years of Australian wool in fashion exhibition

200 years of innovation celebrated

On Tuesday 24th July, 600 distinguished guests from Australia's fashion & wool industries celebrated 200 years of innovation at the opening of Fashion from Fleece exhibition at the Powerhouse Museum in Darling Harbour, Sydney.

Initiated by Australian Wool Innovation (AWI), the exhibition presents key moments of wool in fashion with pieces from the likes of Chanel, Yves Saint Laurent, Giorgio Armani and Rei Kawakubo of Comme des Garçons.

The exhibition was opened by Dr Nicholas G Pappas, President board of Trustees, Powerhouse Museum, who applauded the important role the Australian wool industry has played within Australian history and its contribution to Australia's rich cultural identity.

Also speaking on the night, AWI Chairman Ian McLachlan said ever since the first bale of wool was sent to England with the intention of commercial sale in 1807, the Australian wool industry has continually gone through an innovation revolution.

“AWI is proud to present the Fashion from Fleece exhibition in partnership with the Powerhouse Museum,” said Mr McLachlan.

“The 200 year anniversary of Australian wool heralds one of the biggest global marketing initiatives that AWI has ever undertaken.
 
“This is not only about celebrating our proud heritage, but also about showing what we have to offer our business partners for the future. AWI has already established strong business relationships with major retailers, manufacturers and designers around the world. 
 
Guests attending the Fashion from fleece exhibition opening included Lady Sonia McMahon, iconic Australian designer Jenny Kee, contemporary Australian designers Lydia Pearson and Pamela Easton from Easton Pearson, Peter Morrissey, Jayson Brunsdon, Sydney Morning Herald Fashion Editor, Glynis Traill Nash and Marie Claire's Fashion Director, Jane Roarty.

The exhibition will be open until 22 August 2007

Powerhouse Museum
500 Harris St
Ultimo NSW 2009
Australia

AWI Chairman Mr Ian McLachlan, Jayson Brunsdon, AWI CEO Craig Welsh

Jane de Teliga, Lydia Pearson, Jane Roarty

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