When devastating bushfires raged across South Australia’s Kangaroo Island in 2019-20, recovery seemed impossible.
Almost half of the Island was destroyed, along with countless homes, businesses, crops, forests, tourism venues, farm machinery and an estimated 32,000 head of stock.
Not to mention the heartbreaking impact on the Island’s abundant wildlife and pristine natural attractions, such as Flinders Chase National Park.
And as if that weren’t enough, the small population of around 5000 then had to deal with the impact of COVID 19 on the island’s many tourism businesses.
But just as fire plays a role in regenerating the Australian bush, this catastrophic event also led to new growth in business – especially agriculture and tourism.
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Kangaroo Island Wool was originally formed in May 2012 as a collaboration between local wool-growing families with a shared vision to do more with the wool grown on the island.
The idea for the business was hatched in the 1990s, the brainchild of veterinarians Greg Johnsson and Deb Lehmann. They launched the Kangaroo Island Sheep Production Group, aiming to “lift productivity, profitability and sustainability” for island farmers, using scientific methods and research.
“But it wasn’t until after the devastating 2020 bushfires — followed closely by the impacts of COVID-19 — that the business was truly reimagined,” said General Manager Sophie Clarke.
“With support from a bushfire recovery grant, we began building our own wool mill right here on Kangaroo Island. This gave us the unique opportunity to process wool locally — scouring, spinning, and knitting it on-site — while investing in the latest whole garment knitting technology.
Community-led manufacturing
“That moment marked the beginning of a new chapter: one focused on sustainability, innovation, and community-led manufacturing.”
Collaboration between producers is becoming increasingly common in Australia, as primary industries recognise the need to diversify and consolidate.
The move is also driven by consumer demand for ethical, sustainable, and Australian-made products.
“Our goal is to create high-quality, thoughtfully made wool garments with minimal environmental impact,” Sophie said.
“We aim to minimise waste, reduce our environmental footprint by limiting reliance on extended supply chains, and offer people garments they can feel proud to wear — not just because of how they look or feel, but because of the values behind them.”
Practical sustainability
“Thanks to our cutting-edge whole garment knitting technology, we’re able to produce completely seam-free garments — reducing waste and increasing comfort, durability and design freedom,” said Sophie.
“Every piece is crafted with care, combining timeless style with practical sustainability. At its core, Kangaroo Island Wool is about creating garments that feel good to wear and do good for the land and people behind them.”
Kangaroo Island Wool brings together 23 wool-growing families who are each invested in the future of farming and the land they call home.
“As a cooperative, we share decision-making, direction, and rewards. Instead of sending wool away as a raw product, we now have the ability to be part of its entire transformation — from fleece to finished piece,” Sophie said.
“Members benefit directly from the added value of processing and making locally and take pride in being part of a community-owned business that reflects their values and commitment to quality.”
Significant growth
Cooperatives are not new: they’ve been around for centuries, dating back to the 15th century.
With growing demand for ethical, sustainable business practices and community wealth building, cooperatives are now experiencing significant growth nationally and globally.
“There are other collaborative wool projects around the world, but the Kangaroo Island Wool model is uniquely shaped by our landscape, our people and the challenges we’ve overcome,” Sophie said.
“We didn’t follow a set blueprint — we created our own, led by necessity, innovation, and a deep connection to place.
“From building a wool mill in the wake of disaster to investing in cutting-edge knitting technology, our story is one of reinvention. It’s not just about wool — it’s about resilience, independence and finding better ways to do business.
Tradition meets innovation
“You could say we’ve created something that’s both grounded in tradition and driven by innovation.”
Kangaroo Island Wool is a commercial venture, but it represents what’s possible when local families band together with a common goal.
The cooperative’s showroom at Cygnet River has now become a destination for visitors wanting to learn more about the wool story — a place where people can see how the garments are made, meet the makers, and explore the depth of wool as a fibre.
“Beyond that, our wool mill has created real momentum in the region, offering training, employment, and new opportunities for skills development on the island,” said Sophie.
Drawcard for talent
“Importantly, it’s also become a drawcard for talent — we’re now attracting highly skilled professionals and creative individuals who are seeking something different. People are relocating to Kangaroo Island not just for a job, but to be part of something purposeful. We’re seeing the value of a business that not only produces locally but also inspires people to live and create here.
“In that way, Kangaroo Island Wool is more than just a business — it’s a catalyst for regional renewal and innovation. It helps keep people, knowledge, and creativity on the island, and opens up new futures for the next generation.”
Exciting new products
One example of this creativity is the Kangaroo Island Wool trilby.
A classic reimagined, this bespoke product is made from felted, superfine Australian merino wool, by Island resident Sabine Pedder.
“Sabine’s beautiful, handcrafted wool hats are a perfect example of how creativity finds its place within our team. We are proud to support and nurture exciting new product offerings as we continue to grow.
“Looking forward, sustainability continues to shape our path. Thanks to our whole garment knitting technology, we already produce minimal waste — but we’re working hard to go even further. We’re now undertaking new projects to repurpose our spinning and knitting waste into wool felt, aiming to reduce waste entirely.
“And with that has come an exciting development: we’ve recently welcomed a fully qualified cordwainer to our team. Watch this space as they’ll be leading the creation of our new product ranges, a project that brings together craftsmanship, circular thinking, and a deep respect for the fibre we work with.
Marketing centred on storytelling
“Innovation will remain at the heart of what we do, as we continue to build a business that reflects both the past and future of wool on Kangaroo Island,” said Sophie.
“Kangaroo Island holds a powerful place in the minds of travellers around the world — known for its wild landscapes, unique wildlife, and commitment to conservation. We’ve been able to build on that reputation not only by being based here, but by weaving the island’s story into everything we do.
“Our approach to marketing has centred on storytelling — sharing the tales of our farmers, the beauty of our garments, the people behind their creation, and our ongoing efforts to reduce waste and tread more lightly on the land.
“Media interest has followed — drawn to our sustainable focus and the innovation happening in our wool mill. Our whole garment knitting technology, minimal-waste production and new felted projects are all part of our mission to lead with environmental care and design excellence.
“As more global audiences look for brands that reflect their values — from sustainability to meaningful production — Kangaroo Island Wool is well-positioned to grow. We see ourselves not just as makers of garments, but as part of a broader movement that blends creativity, responsibility, and place.”
To find out more about this innovative collaboration, visit www.kangarooislandwool.com