How we started making kangaroo slippers in the 1960's

Mandic Shoes has a long history with Kangaroo leather. One of the first products my father and mother made when they started the business from their home garage back, back in the 1960's were kangaroo fur skin slippers!

These were all handmade. Hand cut and sewn. It was simple beginnings when Bozo my father (or Bill as everyone called him), decided to start using his skills as a shoemaker to build his own unique brand and product.

Dad arrived in Australia in 1958 and worked in shoe factories first in Melbourne then in Sydney after emigrating from Croatia. Dad learnt his trade in Austria, and then continued to build his skill and knowledge in both pattern making and business studies at Ultimo TAFE in Sydney.

Its funny how things come around, I myself just completed a course at Ultimo TAFE (not in footwear) and my time then reminded me of how most shoees would have learnt their trade there. Both my sister's Anita and Jacky also learnt shoemaking skills at Ultimo TAFE. Unfortunately this trade is no longer available. 

Today, I do not believe there is anywhere in Australia to learn shoemaking so its becoming of a lost art.

Back to Kangaroo - The Mandic Shoe family have been proud of our history and our Australian home, none more so then my dad so to now have a range of quality boots using kangaroo leather is a bit full circle.

These boots are designed in Australia by Mandic Shoes, using our proven fittings and designs and using Australian Kangaroo leather.

Unfortunately we can no longer make them here but the factory we collaborate with in India have worked with us from over 15 years. In fact, we travel to the factory to train the staff and ensure the production of our boots is to our expected high quality standard and finish.

You will not be disappointed if you invest in a pair of Macarthur Boots by Mandic Shoes

till next time.... 

Julie Mandic