Celebrating 80 years of Earth, Clay & Fire with Robert Gordon Pottery

Robert Gordon Pottery has shaped the Australian ceramics landscape for three generations. Their journey began in a tin shed in Gembrook and has grown into the thriving factory we know today in Pakenham.

As one of Cardinia’s local employers, Robert Gordon plays a vital role in strengthening the shire’s economy. The Pakenham factory attracts many visitors to the area, offering a creative space for the community with hands-on workshops, events, and collaborations with local artists.

Cardinia Shire Council Mayor, Cr Jack Kowarzik attended the exhibition launch on Saturday 6 September and expressed his pride in showcasing Robert Gordon’s legacy at the Cardinia Cultural Centre.

“For 80 years, Robert Gordon Pottery has made an incredible contribution to the arts and culture community here in Cardinia” Mayor Kowarzik said.

“I encourage everyone to be part of this milestone and celebrate the creativity and heritage it represents.”

Hannah Gordon, Director of Robert Gordon Australia, reflected on the significance of the occasion. “We are immensely proud to be celebrating this significant 80-year milestone. Stepping back and looking at our story, from a small tin shed in Gembrook to where we are today, is truly wonderful” she said.

“This exhibition isn't just a collection of moments and pieces; it’s a tribute to the community and the enduring support that has allowed us to shape Australian ceramics for three generations.”

In addition to the exhibition, Cardinia Cultural Centre is offering a variety of interactive workshops and events that the community can attend:

Sip and Paint Your Own Ceramics with Robert Gordon

Guests are invited to enjoy a glass of wine or soft drink as they paint their own piece of Robert Gordon ceramics with the backdrop of free live music, and the opportunity to explore the exhibition after hours.

• Date: Thursday, 25 September
• Time: 6:00pm & 7:00pm
• Entry: $40
• Book here.
   

Valley Potters: Cardinia Ceramics Market

Enjoy a great indoor maker’s market presented by Valley Potters. This free community event will be showcasing the wares of some of Victoria’s finest pottery makers.

• Date: Saturday 27 September
• Time: 10:00am - 3:00pm
• Entry: FREE
• Find out more.

Eighty Years of Earth, Clay & Fire: The Enduring Story of Robert Gordon Pottery is running at Cardinia Cultural Centre Gallery daily, from 9:00am – 4:00pm until Monday 29 September 2025.

(L-R) Hannah Gordon, Bobby Gordon, Robert Gordon and Barbara Gordon, two generations of the Gordon Family at the opening of Eighty Years of Earth, Clay and Fire: The Enduring Story of Robert Gordon Pottery.