Mortels Sheepskin Factory
Address:
1 Weakleys Drive, Thornton NSW 2322, AUSTRALIA
Phone:61249660990
Mortels Sheepskin Factory is a multi-award-winning, Australian-owned family business located in the Hunter Region of New South Wales — and the oldest continuously operating UGG boot factory in the world.
In 1956, Frank Mortel, a master shoe craftsman, and his wife Rita emigrated from the Netherlands, bringing with them a proud family tradition of shoe making spanning more than 150 years. They established Mortels Shoes in Sydney that same year, and by 1958, began producing UGG boots as part of their quality footwear range.
Since then, the Mortel name has become synonymous with expert craftsmanship and enduring quality. In 1978, the family relocated their factory to the Hunter Region, setting up in a humble shed in Lochinvar. From there, they continued expanding their range of sheepskin products and growing their brand. Today, the Mortel family proudly upholds the same tradition of skill, care, and dedication in producing their premium quality sheepskin products.
In 2015, Mortels Sheepskin Factory expanded its manufacturing and retail operations to include a truly unique and culturally significant visitor experience. Housed in a purpose-built, Australiana-style shearing shed, the facility welcomes domestic and international tourists alike.
Fully guided tours take visitors on a raised viewing platform through the heart of the factory, showcasing the sights, sounds, and smells of an authentic working manufacturing plant. Guests observe every step in the making of Mortels UGG boots — from raw materials to the finished product — culminating in a visit to the retail store where they can purchase the very boots they’ve just seen being made.
Also onsite, visitors can enjoy all-day breakfast or lunch at Mortels Café, and explore The Sheep’s Back Museum, which shares the rich history of UGG boots, sheepskin manufacturing in Australia and Mortels story — all under one roof.
Proudly standing at the front of the factory are The Big UGG Boots — the largest UGG boots in the world and a truly iconic Australian photo opportunity!
Factory Tours are available by booking only. Tours operate weekdays only, excluding public holidays. Please note, our manufacturing team does not work on weekends, so there is no live production to observe during weekend visits. While factory tours are not available on weekends, our store, Café, and museum remain open until 2:00pm, offering a great outing for all ages. Don’t forget to snap a photo with the iconic Big UGG Boots during your visit.
Close