Part of the local LEGACY
The FJ company struggled to maintain profits from the 1980s as a result of government policy which removed tariffs protecting clothing manufacturing in Australia and the Factory and operations eventually closed in 2005.
The years following 2005 were filled with uncertainty and the site fell further and further into disrepair.
Bringing a Creative Spirit to the FJ Gardens
The Fletcher Jones water tower, also known as the Silver Ball is a piece of public art on the horizon.
The Silver Ball and gardens were the focus of a community campaign to keep the site from demolition by neglect.
Emma Charlton was the Project President and Coordinator of the Silver Ball Screening Festival – let’s listen to her accounts of that day…
The Silver Ball also serves as an inspiration for many artists in the community!
This iconic Silver Ball on the horizon features in all council photographs.
Find out more here: https://www.warrnambool.vic.gov.au/
As you explore the Fletcher Jones Gardens, you will come across several Augmented Reality Artworks floating in the air!
These artworks are part of an exhibition held by the F Project and with some help from Regional Arts Victoria and the Fletcher Jones Family Foundations.
You can look for the QR codes placed in the gardens (as seen on the map) and scan them with your phone’s camera.
Continuing Entrepreneurship
Behind this historical building, artists and young people with passion have collaborated to build creative workspaces. These continue to serve the community with innovative, creative and progressive ideas. Gareth Colliton of One Day Studios tells us more:
The site also serves as a lovely meeting place for the general public. The Pleasant Hill Coffee Van is a great spot for a nice coffee or a toastie. The Fletcher Jones Market is also very popular with locals and tourists!
Things are Just Getting Started…
Whilst so much has already been done, there is much more to look forward to in the future of the Fletcher Jones factory and gardens. The site will continue to evolve with plans for more developments underway.
A Warrnambool motor museum with the Silver Ball is located in the eastern part of the site. More than 200 cars and other vehicles will be on display at the Warrnambool Motor Museum!
Events such as community Christmas parties, parades and picnics continue to connect the community to the site.
Fletcher Jones Gardens Digital Tour 