FASHION TALKS: BEYOND THE SEAMS PRESENTED BY MUSEUMS VICTORIA

TUES 5 MARCH          4:00PM
Treetops, Melbourne Museum

TALK

Join us in exploring the future of clothing manufacturing, a panel discussion guided by the Australian Fashion Council. We'll uncover transformative trends and innovative strategies poised to shape the future of clothing manufacturing in Victoria, where the local fashion and textiles industry is well-placed to transition to a circular clothing economy. From technology integration to smart textiles, localised production, and global competitiveness, this insightful discussion delves into collaborative efforts and forward-thinking initiatives.

The AFC and Epson Australia have partnered on a study to explore the current state and future potential of clothing manufacturing, aiming to build a business case for increased investment to boost jobs and ‘right-shore’ select local manufacturing capabilities. Don’t miss the opportunity to gain exclusive early insights from the research report before its official release.

PRESENTED BY:

PANELISTS & HOST

Marianne Perkovic, AFC Chair

Marianne Perkovic is the Chair of the AFC Board. She brings deep commercial and technical experience across business strategy and execution, her strong financial management skills, coupled with a focus on change management and compliance make her a driving force for sustainable transformation with a positive environmental and social impact. Marianne is also the author of the book Pivotal Career Moments.

Dr Jenny Underwood, Associate Dean, RMIT

Dr Jenny Underwood is the Associate Dean of Research and Innovation, in the School of Fashion and Textiles at RMIT University. With over 15 years’ experience as an educator and researcher, her research is concerned with methods for material circularity, responsible design innovation, and systems-based approaches to sustainability for fashion and textiles.

Craig Heckenberg, Managing Director of Epson Australia

Craig Heckenberg is the Managing Director of Epson Australia and New Zealand. With a robust background in leadership roles within the company since 2000, Craig brings nearly three decades of experience in digital imaging to his current role.

Throughout his distinguished career, Craig has demonstrated expertise in sales and marketing, playing a pivotal role in advancing both business and industry through the implementation of cutting-edge technology solutions.

Andrew Quinn, Director of ABMT Apparel 

Andrew Quinn is a Director of ABMT Apparel, a fully vertical manufacturer based in Melbourne. ABMT Apparel manufactures clothing for a diverse range of Australian brands with a fully transparent supply chain audited by ISO, ACO, Woolmark, and Ethical Clothing Australia. With 15 years of experience overseeing local production, Andrew champions high-quality, environmentally responsible, and ethically sound fabrics and garments.

EVENT DETAILS

LOCATION
Treetops
11 Nicholson Street, Carlton, Victoria, 3053

GETTING TO THE EVENT
The Treetops room is located on the mezzanine between the Ground Floor and Level 1
On arrival at the Museum Main Entrance, guests will be directed past the ticketing desk to the Treetops ramp, which is located on the right hand side of the Forest Gallery
Guests are to make their way up the ramp to Treetops

PARKING
Melbourne Museum

Parking Located under Melbourne Museum, Enter via Rathdowne Street or Nicholson Street

ACCESSIBILITY
Disabled access is provided via the main entrance to the venue