Creswick Woollen Mills

An Award-Winning Australian Family Business

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Creswick Woollen Mills

The Mill’s Story Began in 1947

Creswick Woollen Mills was founded in 1947 by Polish migrant, Paul Ryzowy in the Victorian town of Creswick, a short drive from Ballarat, Daylesford and Clunes. Creswick Woollen Mill is today the only remaining coloured woollen spinning mill of its type in Australia. It’s well worth a visit to this award-winning Australian family business. 

Explore the history of the mill and learn about the journey of natural fibres through the interactive exhibition called ‘A Very Fine Yarn’ and feed an alpaca! Creswick Woollen Mills specialises in luxurious, high-quality, natural, sustainable fibres including merino, alpaca, cashmere, cotton and bamboo with a range of beautiful clothing, accessories and homewares.

Visit award-winning Creswick Woollen Mills on your next holiday

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A Proud Family-Run Business

Creswick Woollen Mills, located 120 kilometres from Melbourne has led the way for woollen mills in Australia since 1947 when Polish-born migrant Paul Ryzowy purchased the original mill. It is now one of the largest private employers in the region and operates four outlets throughout Victoria as well as servicing international online clientele.

Soon after founder Paul Ryzowy established the business, he began attracting the attention of textile merchants in Flinders Lane, who began buying the mill’s quality fabrics for dresses and jackets. Creswick Woolen Mills has continued to evolve and expand, supplying high-quality fabrics to fashion brands. 

Partnerships were formed over the years including with department store David Jones who took Creswick Woollen Mill natural fibre homewears to the Australian market. Another collaboration was with the Country Fire Authority and NSW Rural Fire Service in developing effective, fire-retardant blankets. The business is now run by family members Boaz Herszfeld and his sister Sharon.

An Award-Winning Australian Family Business

Welcoming Tourists to the Historic Mill

In the 2000s, Creswick Woollen Mills opened its doors to tourists who were keen to get a behind-the-scenes look at the operations of a working mill. Guided tours take in the history of the mill and an interactive exhibit called ‘A Very Fine Yarn’ won gold in the Tourism Attraction category of the RACV Victorian Tourism Awards 2016. 

While on a Creswick Woollen Mills tour, you can feed the friendly (and very cute) alpacas, lambs and goats, or feed yourself at the cafe. Of course, a browse through the shop is a must. Here you’ll find a unique and luxurious range of natural fibre products such as the much-loved knitwear, jackets, scarves and socks. 

The famous range of blankets, throws, pillows and quilts are hard to resist, especially as they deliver! Visit Creswick Woollen Mills on your next trip to Victoria and take home the perfect memento of your holiday.​

Frequently asked questions

What else is there to do in Creswick?

As well as Creswick Woollen Mills, Creswick is known for its walking and cycling trails, restaurants, cafes, pubs, nearby wineries and interesting attractions throughout town. Visit some of the historic buildings including the Creswick Museum, stroll through Creswick Regional Park, take the Buried Rivers of Gold Trail, or get lost at Maze House.

Who owns Creswick Woollen Mills?

Boaz Herszfeld and his sister Sharon now run the family business.

What are the core values of Creswick Woollen Mills?

After 75 years of hard work and ingenuity, the core values of Creswick Woollen Mills remain, commitment to family, community and quality built on original foundations of flexibility and resourcefulness.

How does Creswick Woollen Mills give back to the community?

Creswick Woollen Mills is committed to giving back. Working with leading charities, the business has donated over $1 million worth of blankets to be distributed to people experiencing homelessness, along with supporting many other community projects.

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