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Akubra, an iconic Australian hatmaker just shy of turning 150 years' old, will officially open its first-ever branded store in Brisbane today with the support of country music singer Lee Kernaghan.
The store is located at 162 Edward Street in the heart of Brisbane’s CBD and is part of the brand’s broader strategy, with the location to be the first of multiple planned throughout this year.
The grand opening is slated for this evening, featuring a live performance from Australian country singer and four-time ARIA award winner Lee Kernaghan. One of the nation's most celebrated artists, Kernaghan was also dubbed Australian of the Year in 2008.
Akubra CEO Natalie Culina, who became the first woman to lead the company one year ago, said the brand is proud to offer customers an exclusive brand experience in the heart of Brisbane.
“This marks our first-ever branded store experience, and choosing Queensland for our debut was a natural decision—it’s where our community is strongest," said Culina.
“We’re deeply attuned to our customers, and following the incredible success of the reopening of our Kempsey flagship store, we saw an opportunity to expand our retail presence in a way that brings the true essence of Akubra to life.
“This isn’t just a store - it’s an immersive celebration of Australian heritage, craftsmanship, and the iconic handcrafted hats that have become woven into our national identity.”
Founded in 1876 by Benjamin Dunkerley in Tasmania, Akubra prides itself on offering 100 per cent handmade rabbit fur-felt hats. In 1900, Dunkerley moved the business to Surry Hills, Sydney, and later, in 1919, relocated again to Bourke Street, Waterloo, to support the company's expansion.
In 1974, Akubra would move its operations to Kempsey on the mid-north NSW coast, where it has remained since.
The hatmaker entered a new chapter in 2023 when it was acquired by Australian mining billionaires Andrew and Nicola Forrest via their investment vehicle Tattarang for an undisclosed sum.
“We are incredibly proud to open this new store in Queensland, preserving and building upon the legacy of Akubra,” Andrew Forrest said.
“Akubra has been ingrained in the fabric of Australian families for generations, and I’m proud that more people will have the opportunity to experience this great Australian-made product.
“What better way to celebrate the outback in Brisbane than with a reunion of the legendary Lee Kernaghan and one of Australia’s most iconic brands, Akubra.”
Nicola Forrest AO said Akubra’s legacy is a testament to the quality, heritage and the enduring spirit of Australian craftsmanship.
"Expanding Akubra’s presence across Australia is not just about growing the brand - it’s about investing in the future of Australian craftsmanship,” she added.
“We’re helping to ensure the next generation of artisans have the support they need to thrive in regional communities, preserving the craftsmanship that makes Akubra and Australia’s manufacturing sector so special."
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