Where it all began

Macquarie Hills Potters began in 1974 when its creator and first teacher, Kay Aliband, was invited to teach pottery to students at Macquarie University as a part of the Union’s Activities Program. The studio was a garage at the back of one of the original fibro cottages that existed on the site before the University was built. Its walls were unlined and the only contents were shelves bracketed onto the studs. It was not insulated, and our only water supply was a cold water tap mounted over concrete laundry tubs outside. Equipment was basic: – a kick wheel, a small top loading kiln and a few hand tools. The course was popular and the students keen and enthusiastic.

In 1976 we were moved to “O” level in the University Union Building. When we arrived for the first class we found two large electric kilns and two Venco throwing wheels had been installed. A second class was started with a new teacher, weekend workshops were organised and Raku firings were held on the pavement outside the studio.

In 1989 it was a shock to learn the pottery classes were being abandoned in favour of computers.

We approached the Union and were given access to the old cottage in Culloden Road. More equipment was purchased and over the following ten years we developed a fabulous studio where creative people of all ages, nationalities and from all walks of life thrived. Then, just after our 10th Anniversary, we learnt the building was to be demolished and once again we needed a new home.

The move to Baulkham Hills

In 1976 a group of women living in the Hills decided to meet and develop their common interest in craft. The result, with the support of Baulkham Hills Shire Council, was the formation of the Hills District Craft Association.

The group met regularly at 'The Workshop' at 323 Old Northern Road, Castle Hill. At this location they established rooms for the teaching of many different crafts - macrame, spinning, weaving, pottery, tapestry, crochet, tricot, knitting, Tunisian crochet, leatherwork, rug making, hairpin lace, soft toys, calligraphy, candle making and classes for children on Saturday mornings. A shop to sell their creations was set up and manned. The centre thrived.

They received a grant for a large pottery kiln, an electric pottery wheel and an enamelling kiln. As they were providing a service to the community by supplying craft facilities, the coucil helped initially by not charging rent.

In 2001 HILLS DISTRICT CRAFT ASSOCIATION and MACQUARIE POTTERS came together in Building 16 at the Balcombe Heights Estate. It was when the Craft Association was at its lowest, and Macquarie Potters although a very strong group, had lost its studio at Macquarie University.

Since moving to Balcombe Heights the Macquarie Hills Potters have continued to expand their facilities, their student body and have actively involved themselves in many local community activities.