Renders supplied by FABRIK.
The historical plans will redevelop multiple buildings at the former Onkaparinga Woolen Mill site.
FABRIK has been granted $1.3 million of capital expenditure from the local council to redevelop the site, and is hoping to receive additional funding from the Bushfire Local Economic Recovery Program.
The funding will allow FABRIK to carry out its grand plans to redevelop the site while paying tribute to its incredible history.
The redevelopment will modernise the space to allow for galleries, workshops, artist studios, retail spaces and community projects.
The focus is on retaining the site’s personality and industrial character while celebrating the history of the mill.
“The redevelopment will allow us to present art at a higher level on a much larger scale,” says FABRIK’s director Melinda Rankin.
FABRIK interweaves arts into the community beyond Lobethal.
“The potential to bring arts events and facilities into Lobethal will have a great flow on effect economically for the region,” says Melinda.
One of the development plans is to turn the site’s old cottage into an artist studio that will accommodate artists in residence.
“The residency accommodation will allow artists and the community to work together cohesively on projects,” says Melinda.
“You can still have contemporary art in regional areas, but it needs to be in line with the community to showcase its history,” she continues.
One of the buildings has become a refuge for people affected by the devastating bushfires that hit the region earilier in the year.
FABRIK have set up long term recovery plans to help people rebuild their lives. The hub will act as a place for people to come and help each other through art.
“I passionately believe that the arts can make a difference to the community,” says Melinda.
In its heyday, the Onkaparinga Woolen Mill wove car upholstery, army uniforms and airline blankets. There was a time where most Australian households had an Onkaparinga blanket. Many still do.
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Discover FABRIK at 1 Lobethal Road, Lobethal.
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