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Publish date: 11 March 2025
Buloke Shire continues to shine as a hub of creativity, with a recent Art of the Loom workshop in Charlton.
Led by artisan weaver David Beaty, the event brought nine individuals together to share their unique stories and experiences and to take a moment to switch off from life’s stressors through weaving.
“David’s belief in sustainability, longevity, and community-driven sharing of knowledge and resources perfectly aligns with the community’s objectives for the Community Recovery Hubs Program,” said Buloke Shire Council Mayor Cr Alan Getley.
“Workshops like these provide more than artistic knowledge—every participant leaves with not just new skills but also a sense of belonging and inspiration, reflecting our broader vision.”
Beginning his career at the age of 16, David started as an apprentice at Macquarie Worsted Mills in 1980.
His educational journey took him through TAFE Wangaratta, Bruck Mills, and Wangaratta Woollen Mills.
Over 15 years, David honed his expertise across various departments—from the Dyehouse to the Weaving-Finishing Mill—with his primary role in Repco Spinning.
A transformative workshop led by Ilka White in Castlemaine in 2019 cemented his love for the art of handweaving, inspiring him to find moments to relax and weave for his own pleasure.
The Art of the Loom workshop attracted community members eager to learn not just the technical aspects of weaving but also the deeper stories woven into each thread.
Participants explored how handweaving connects us to traditional practices while embracing innovative, sustainable methods.
"Emergency Recovery Victoria is pleased to support these workshops, delivered under the jointly-funded Recovery Hubs Program, “added Emergency Recovery Victoria Director, Regional Recovery West, Ange Carey.
"Recovery comes in many forms, and it’s great to see community members come together to learn, connect and recover through art.”
The Community Hubs Program is jointly funded under the Commonwealth-State Disaster Recovery Funding Arrangements in response to the October 2022 Victorian floods.
Image 1: After returning to Australia in 2012, David Beaty of Charlton decided to pursue handweaving, bringing with him a renewed purpose and dedication to sustainable practices using natural fibres and building his own weaving equipment. David is pictured with Julie Bourke.
Image 2: Karen Medlyn’s weave begins to take shape.
Image 3: Yvonne Brown (front) adds texture to the incomplete fabric, while David Beaty (centre) admires the progress of Kez Duncan’s weave. Liz Richardson and Karen Medlyn (partly hidden).
Image 4: Di Woods tempers the tension as her design takes form. Back: Mary-Anne Sait and Paula Wright.
Media Enquiries:
For further information contact Buloke Shire Council on 1300 520 520 or email media@buloke.vic.gov.au