AKUBRA 150 Years of History
AKUBRA Hats – An Australian Icon
Join Coastal Hatters at The Galleria, Ettalong Beach as we commemorate Akubra’s origins which date back to 1876, making 2026 the 150th anniversary since the inception of what became AKUBRA HATS.
Once again adopting his “bite off more than you can chew and chew like hell” policy, proprietor Eric J Wright has announced the imminent arrival of 500+ Akubra hats, covering 50 varieties (March 2026). “The tip of the iceberg,” chuckles Eric, promising many more variations to come.
Eric J Wright, master hatter at Coastal Hatters, Galleria Ettalong Beach
More than a hat shop – and not just a hatter – Eric has created a hat museum, one of the largest hat collections in Australia, right here on the Central Coast. While proudly supporting over nine locally designed and/or manufactured hat brands, including Canopy Bay, Tina M, Cancer Council, and Flexibraid, the store also represents Avenel of Melbourne, Boss Cocky Belts and Gear Bags, Goorin Caps, Camilo Panama Hats, the Klipsat Range, FlexFit Caps and quality hats from around the world.
It truly must be seen to be believed, with hundreds of historical AKUBRAs and iconic international headwear on display at Ettalong Galleria.
While most Australians know Akubra is uniquely Australian, its true origins are not widely known. Coastal Hatters, with the full support of The Galleria Management, is hoping to have the Akubra documentary screened across all six cinemas throughout this special anniversary year.
Some Fun Facts
In 1876, Benjamin Dunkerley invented a revolutionary machine designed to dress fur, paving the way for Australia’s iconic Akubra. His original Tasmanian hat mill, Kensington Hat Mills, was later relocated to Crown Street, Surry Hills.
British hat maker Stephen Keir I soon arrived in Australia and joined Dunkerley, later marrying Ada Dunkerley, the boss’s daughter – a highly talented hat former and milliner.
In 1912, company director Arthur Pringle Stewart registered the brand name “AKUBRA” for Dunkerley Hats.
Coastal Hatters showcases Akubra hats throughout their history. Master hatter Eric will guide visitors through the manufacturing process, care of the hats, and share some cracking yarns.
In 2023, the company was acquired by Andrew “Twiggy” Forrest, reinforcing that Australian-made is something worth fighting for. Akubra remains 100% Australian owned – and that’s a good thing.
Eric hopes you will join us in celebrating the dedication of the Keir family and the Akubra team. 150 years in the hat industry is something we can all be proud of.
“Stick your Head in” or call ahead (LOL) Ph: 0422 746 651.
Coastal Hatters Galleria, Ettalong Beach
