Wrench’s Footwear has been part of Wonthaggi for over a century.
The business began in 1910 when Harry Wrench opened a boot-making shop on Graham Street, handcrafting pit boots for the miners working underground and the farmers across the district.
At a time when Wonthaggi’s coal mines were thriving and strong, waterproof boots weren’t a luxury, they were essential. Harry recognised that need and brought with him the boot-making skills passed down from his father, Thomas. Every pair of boots was handmade on the premises, built to withstand the harsh conditions underground and on the land.
More than 115 years later, we’re still here on Graham Street, serving the community that has supported Wrench’s for generations.
Over the decades, the business passed through generations and caretakers who shared a commitment to craftsmanship, service and community. From Harry and Amelia Wrench, to Gordon and Dulcie, to Brian and Dot Lindsay, Carl and Manon, and now myself (Saffie) & Liam, with each chapter adding to the story while preserving the values that built it.
For much of our history, Wrench’s wasn’t simply a place to buy shoes. It was where locals brought boots to be repaired, where children were fitted for their first school shoes, and where generations of families returned year after year for advice they could trust.
Our repair workshop remains an important part of that heritage today, with some of the original boot-making equipment and patterns still in use. A reminder of the craftsmanship that shaped the business from the very beginning.
Today, I’m proud to be the fifth generation continuing the Wrench’s story.
While our range has evolved to include contemporary footwear, apparel and lifestyle brands, the philosophy remains unchanged: quality products, genuine service and taking the time to get things right.
There’s been plenty of change over the last 115 years, but there’s a few things that remain the same;
We’re still family owned.
We’re still proudly local.
And we’re still committed to providing the kind of service that keeps generations of families coming back through our doors.