As Aussie as bush and barbie, koala and kangaroo, the Akubra hat has many other practical uses. Since 1912 Australians have lived, loved and died in their Akubra.
Grenville Turner has travelled Australia and creatively combined words and pictures to tell the story of the people who wear the Akubra. "Not only does it shade the eyes from the glare of the hard Australian sun – you can fan a fire with it, keep a snake at bay, water your horse, belt a sheep and swat away flies – or keep it on your head because you like wearing it."
Hats are having a resurgence in fashion and the Akubra had a starring role in the recent blockbuster film Australia directed by Baz Lurhmann. Starring Hugh Jackman and Nicole Kidman, the Akubra has once again taken centre stage as the hat of choice for Australians.
