Fabrik Arts + Heritage is hosting a Historian in Residence every Tuesday throughout April. Pauline Cockrill, a historian and museum curator from the History Trust of South Australia, is hoping to speak with former workers from the Onkaparinga Woollen Mill, as part of preparations to develop a heritage interpretation at Fabrik Arts + Heritage in Lobethal. Pauline is researching the history of the Woollen Mill, which operated for over 120 years.

By Kendrea Rhodes

Visiting the Lobethal Bierhaus on a sunny evening in March is a delight that many locals and visitors know well. Add to that an invitation to the launch of a secret ‘something’ from the dedicated Onkaparinga Woollen Mill Museum Inc. (OWMMI), creates intrigue too.   

By Kendrea Rhodes

Almost every weekend of the year, the hubbub of a community or sporting event rings throughout the Valley of Praise. Shouts from footballers, umpires’ whistles, cheering crowds, and the drift of music or announcements, herald the sounds of community gatherings. For about a century the Lobethal Recreation Ground has been in continual use, an effort to be commended particularly as the Ground is a community-owned and community-run asset.

OAKBANK SOLDIERS’ MEMORIAL HALL

By Kendrea Rhodes

Where is the Oakbank Hall and where is the memorial? Occasional questions asked of the Hall’s Secretary, Tony White. It is possible, when driving on the Onkaparinga Valley Road, to overlook the Oakbank Hall due to the trees and flourishing businesses surrounding it. But if you slow down, you might notice the Art Deco portico, its imposing columns, and maybe even the 95 years of memories and local history seeping through the walls and windows.

By Kendrea Rhodes

From Stirling to Lobethal, Oakbank to Mount Torrens, over three glorious days during the Fringe season, locals and visitors can indulge in Hills’ delights at the Festival of the Hills.

Opening night starts with a party on the lawn in Stirling, then Strum & Stroll in Lobethal on day two with the Adelaide Guitar Festival, and finally day three, traversing the Amy Gillet Bikeway with pop-up stalls and entertainment along the 15km stretch.

By Kendrea Rhodes

Tulin Di Blasio, proprietor of Adelaide Hills Alterations, is a designer, pattern maker, and seamstress with 24 years’ experience. Tulin opened the business in Littlehampton four years ago and despite the usual business start-up difficulties, effects of bushfires, and covid-19 restrictions, her business is thriving.

By Kendrea Rhodes

Image: community volunteers from Fabrik Arts + Heritage, gathering on the green at the Lobethal Woollen Mill. Fabrik have been instrumental in the support for the fire affected community. Their final exhibition for the year, Regenerate, showcases the ways in which the community have responded to 2020 using creative practice.