Having learnt from RM Williams, multi award-winning leather artisan Bill Webb teaches the art of plaiting and whip-making around the country.
Story + Photos Andrew Hull
There are few variations in the long straight stretch of Mitchell Highway from Nyngan to Bourke – not much in the way of hills, no real bends and just a few small villages serving as milestones. The railway that carries no trains has overgrown tracks, rusting filling tanks and just one significant station, an impressive brick building dominating one half of the highway at Girilambone. Travellers typically stop for a rest and refresh at the friendly Bushcraft Cafe and gaze across at the refurbished, but empty building with its attendant engine and carriage.
Today, however, the cars are parked in and around the old station, and all of the township’s activity is centred within the station, on the whip-making workshop being delivered by Bill Webb.
Bill describes himself as a self-employed leather artisan, a descriptor which, although true, leaves a lot of his resume undisclosed. Considered one of Australia’s finest leather plaiters, Bill has practised the trade for more than 50 years, won virtually every award in the field, and continues to pass on his skills around the country.
“He’s one of the old bush characters,” says Rachael Fanning, owner of the Bushcraft Cafe and organiser of the Girilambone workshop. “He’s certainly one of the best of the old school craftsmen. Bill’s motto is, ‘If it’s not right, do it again’."
This story excerpt is from issue #167
Outback Magazine: June/July 2026
