YESTERDAY marked 70 years since Sir Fletcher Jones formed a company, based in an old rubbish dump and quarry, that would eventually become a national clothing empire.
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That empire is now a shadow of its former self, but yesterday, in the shadows of the iconic Silver Ball and the former factory buildings, Sir Fletcher’s gardens burst to life with an artists market, live music, a high tea and screenings of films telling the story of Fletcher Jones.
Organised by arts collective The F Project, F Project Cinema and members of the Save the Silver Ball Facebook page, yesterday’s garden party harked back to the glory days, when regular staff functions were held in the gardens.
About 1000 people enjoyed the day which combined the regular F Project Artists Market, an F Project Cinema Event as well as a community celebration.
Save the Silver Ball Facebook page founder Julie Eagles said it was wonderful to see so many people enjoying the sunshine in the gardens.
“We chose today because of its significance in the Fletcher Jones’ story, but today is also celebrating the rejuvenation of the site under new owner Dean (Montgomery),” Mrs Eagles said.
“It’s just wonderful to see so many people out here enjoying the day. People have been sharing their stories about visiting the gardens as children and working in the factory.
“That’s what it’s all about. People connecting with a piece of our heritage. We are so lucky we have such a generous new owner like Dean, who recognises the significance of the site to the community.”
Warrnambool musician Damian O’Keefe performed a song with his band The Cutting he wrote about the ball and it’s significance to the Warrnambool community. “It’s the world premiere today,” he quipped. “I wrote it earlier in the week in just a couple of hours.
“The ball is an icon of Warrnambool. It’s an important symbol of what Fletcher Jones stood for, innovation and a fair go for workers.
“I was so proud that people wanted to stand up and fight for our heritage, so I wanted to write something for them.”
The former factory’s new owner Dean Montgomery was on site to enjoy the day, saying he hoped the gardens could be used for many more community celebrations.
jwoolley@fairfaxmedia.com.au