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As part of their HSC Textiles and Design studies, Year 11 students recently undertook a three-day excursion to Newcastle and Sydney, designed to extend their understanding of textile practice beyond the classroom.
The program combined exposure to contemporary fibre art, industry engagement, material exploration, and cultural experiences. Across the three days, students encountered a range of perspectives—from independent fibre artisans to commercial fabric suppliers and large-scale exhibitions—supporting a broader and more critical understanding of the textiles and fashion landscape.
Day One: Exploring Fibre Art and Creative Foundations
The excursion began on Wednesday with a visit to Timeless Textiles in Newcastle East, a respected centre of fibre artisans known for showcasing innovative and contemporary textile work. Students participated in a guided tour, gaining insight into the diverse ways artists are using fibres and mixed media to communicate ideas, stories, and cultural perspectives.
During the workshop, students had the opportunity to engage in hands-on experimentation, exploring techniques that extended beyond the classroom. This experience encouraged creative risk-taking and problem-solving, while also deepening their appreciation for the craftsmanship and conceptual thinking involved in textile art.
The day concluded with travel to Sydney and a shared dinner in Haymarket, providing a valuable opportunity for students to connect, reflect on their learning, and build relationships in a relaxed setting.
Day Two: Engaging with Industry and Creative Practice
Thursday provided a rich opportunity for students to engage directly with the textiles and fashion industry. The TexStyle student seminar and workshop exposed students to current trends, emerging technologies, and potential career pathways. Through interaction with industry professionals, students gained a clearer understanding of the processes behind design development and production.
A visit to Tessuti Fabrics allowed students to explore a wide range of high-quality textiles, considering the practical and creative decisions involved in fabric selection. This experience supported their understanding of how texture, weight, and composition influence the success of a design, particularly in relation to their HSC major works.
The evening offered further inspiration, with students enjoying dinner along Darling Harbour before attending Anastasia the Musical at the Lyric Theatre. Observing costume design in a live performance context highlighted the relationship between textiles, storytelling, and character, enriching students’ appreciation of design in action.
Day Three: Rethinking Fashion and Sustainable Futures
On the final day, students visited the Remnant Warehouse in Alexandria, where they explored the possibilities of sourcing materials in more sustainable and cost-effective ways. This visit encouraged students to think creatively about resource use and to consider how designers can reduce waste while maintaining quality and innovation.
The excursion concluded with a visit to the UTS Gallery exhibition, No Place for Mannequins: Remaking the Fashion Archives . In fashion, the archive has traditionally been seen as a place of authority, shaping how we understand design and dress over time. This exhibition challenged that idea, bringing together local and international artists and designers who are rethinking and reshaping what belongs within the fashion archive.
Curated by Dr Todd Robinson (UTS) and Dr Ricarda Bigolin (RMIT), the exhibition highlighted contemporary practices that question established narratives and explore new ways of preserving and presenting fashion. For students, this provided a valuable opportunity to reflect on sustainability, authorship, and the evolving nature of the fashion industry.
Throughout the excursion, students demonstrated curiosity, independence, and a willingness to embrace new experiences. Opportunities such as this play an important role in supporting both academic growth and personal development, as students learn to apply their knowledge in real-world contexts.
The excursion not only strengthened students’ understanding of textiles and design but also encouraged them to think critically, act creatively, and approach their work with confidence. These experiences reflect Calrossy’s commitment to holistic education—developing learners who are prepared to contribute thoughtfully and purposefully in the world beyond school.
The School extends its sincere thanks to Mrs Casey Fenton and Mrs Anne Wallace for accompanying the students and for their thoughtful planning of a vibrant and engaging itinerary, which made this rich learning experience possible.
