Busselton Spinners' 50th anniversary exhibition starts 22 May

The Busselton Spinners and Weavers are preparing to celebrate their 50th anniversary with a special fibre festival and exhibition to mark the milestone.

Opening at 10am on Thursday, 22 May at the Old Courthouse Complex, Golden Fleece celebrates half a century of creativity, community, and craftsmanship.

Up to 100 spinners and weavers will converge on the Old Courthouse Complex for the Spin-in fibre festival on Saturday, 24 May to demonstrate spinning in action.

Spectators are invited to witness the rhythm of spinning wheels as beautiful handmade textile are crafted before them.

Founded in 1975, the group has grown into a thriving community of fibre artists who gather weekly to spin, weave, knit, crochet, and share knowledge.

Their rich history is closely linked with the heritage-listed Old Courthouse Complex, making it an ideal venue for this commemorative exhibition, supported by the City of Busselton.

The Golden Fleece exhibition showcases an eclectic array of hand-crafted pieces – many of which have been crafted using hand-spun yarns – demonstrating a stunning variety of textile techniques including knitting, crochet, tapestry weaving, loom weaving, and needle felting.

Visitors can also enjoy live spinning demonstrations and admire an impressive display of antique spinning wheels from around the world.

Among the members featured are President Kim Harries, with her life-long knitting expertise along with skills in lace, felting and weaving. Kim is joined by Treasurer, June Wood, who is known for her expressive art yarns and wall hangings; and Secretary, Cath Miller, who spins mohair from her own goats and weaves tartans inspired by her Scottish heritage. Long-standing members including Sylvia Dixon, Denise Read, Carolyn Griffin, and Eve Crompton-Couvela will also showcases pieces that speak to the evolution and diversity of fibre art in the region.

The Golden Fleece runs from 22 May to 3 June 2025 at the Bond Store Gallery, Old Courthouse Complex on Queen Street.

The Spin-in fibre festival is on Saturday, 24 May. Entry is free.