Itinerary: The tour begins with two days in Dili visiting local projects. On day 3, participants have the choice to make a day trip to visit the Maubara basket weavers or stay in Dili for a conference about sustainable livelihoods. On day 4 head east to Com with its stunning beaches and spectacular Tais. On day 5 head inland to Los Palos, renowned for its strong traditions for the first of the weaving workshops. On day 6, go through the hills to the isolated sub-district of Iliomar for two days of workshops culminating in a celebration feast with the community in appreciation for their hospitality. Day 10 to Baucua. Day 11 return to Dili to visit local sites.

On Day 12 visit local artists at the Arte Moris Art School and fly to Darwin.

The ETWA Weaving Tour aims to give cross-cultural experiences with a focus on indigenous weavings and fair trade development. Making extended visits to development projects and to communities in the Lautem district, will immerse participants in village life to learn about traditional weaving in a series of participatory workshops.

But the tour also aims to give something back to the host communities. As a way of expressing our appreciation to the women who will share their knowledge and experiences with us, participants are asked to fundraise a minimum of AU$1,000 each so the tour helps the efforts of these East Timorese to weave sustainable businesses. It's not difficult and ETWA can help with ideas! Please contact us by email:

Information: Deb on 0422 435 517 or office@etwa.org.au
When: 4-15 July 2009

Posted by Prue Hill at 6:25 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

The contest run by Knitters Magazine, received 292 entries from seven countries (USA, Japan, Finland, Canada, Australia, Ireland and Russia.)

The Grand Prize of $6000 was won by a pair of leopard spot socks with "NICE KITTY" knitted into the top edge.

Geraldine McCullough won the "from Sheep to Sox" category with her hand spun raspberry and cream inspired lace socks.

See them, and all the other winning entries at: Knitalk

Posted by Prue Hill at 5:56 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

2009 is the International Year of Natural Fibres.

The Black & Coloured Sheep Breeders Association Central Tablelands Branch is organising the Wool and Natural Fibre Muster in Mudgee on the 30th of May.

We would like to invite you to the Muster and would like you to participate in the "Great Western Tea Cosy Challenge" to find the best tea cosy in the West. Attached is an overview of the Muster and an entry form into the Tea Cosy Challenge. We would like to see as many people to participate as possible.

Additional information and entry forms can be found on the web site: www.gulgee.com.au

See you at the Muster,

Janos & Marianne Farkas,

Gulgee Wool Shed

Posted by Prue Hill at 3:20 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)