Godfrey Hirst

In the mid-nineteenth century, Geelong woollen mills including Godfrey Hirst,commenced production of high quality woven fabrics. They used the fine woolgrown on the fertile plains of the nearby Western District of Victoria. So good were their products, that Geelong and its manufacturers of high-grade fabrics continued to be acclaimed throughout the world for value and quality. Today,only one of the original mills remains; Godfrey Hirst. Situated on the banks of Geelong’s Barwon River, Godfrey Hirst was established in 1865, beside an abundant source of water for use in manufacture. For more than a century after it was established, Godfrey Hirst produced woven fabrics primarily for clothing and furnishings.

Acquired by its present owners in 1966 and substancialy expanded, GodfreyHirst continues the vision of its founders with the tradition of quality and value that made the reputation of Godfrey Hirst and the Geelong region famous for textiles.

With the passing of time and ever-evolving requirements of markets, the products have changed to fulfil customer needs. Today, Godfrey Hirst manufactures high quality carpets and floor coverings. With the introduction ofnew technology, Godfrey Hirst proudly offers carpet designs that achieveacclaimed success within Australia and internationally.

To improve and control the sourcing of raw materials, Godfrey Hirst has adopted a policy of vertical integration. Many materials formerly imported are now manufactured in Godfrey Hirst’s own plant. These facilities convert, fibre into yarn and yarn into tufted carpet.The organisation has many arms, including Godfrey Hirst Australia International,Hycraft Carpets, Barwon and Benalla Spinners, Fibremakers, and Riverside Textiles. Our associate company’s, Godfrey Hirst New Zealand, Canterbury Spinners and Melbourne Scourers augment our wool scouring, spinning and carpetmanufacturing capabilities.

One thing remains paramount and will never change. The Godfrey Hirstcommitment and dedication to quality is now stronger than that upon which thefounders first established their reputation.

Godfrey Hirst continues to be a leader in Australia and internationalmarkets. Today, products and technology are at the leading edge to satisfy agreater customer base, in more homes, in more offices, in more countries.

Like us, our children and their succeeding generations will continue to walkproud … on a quality Godfrey Hirst carpet.//