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The Australian window furnishings and textile industries are mourning the passing of Nunzio De Petro, founder of DeFab Weavers, who passed away on 26 June aged 82.
Born in Vizzini, Sicily in 1942, Nunzio migrated to Australia in 1954 with his mother to join his father in Preston, Victoria. From humble beginnings, he began work at just 14 in a carpet factory and dreamed of becoming a motor mechanic. Denied that opportunity due to his migrant status, Nunzio instead trained as a textile mechanic, enrolling in night classes at the College of Textiles in Pascoe Vale, an early sign of his resilience and determination.
After rising through the ranks in textile mills during the 1960s – from weaver to production manager – Nunzio saw opportunity in adversity. When his employer Loomglo shut its doors during Australia’s manufacturing rationalisation of the 1970s, he and his wife Susan took the bold step of purchasing the company’s redundant looms. In 1976, DeFab Weavers was born.
What followed were nearly five decades of leadership and innovation in textile weaving and finishing. Under Nunzio’s stewardship, DeFab evolved from a niche weaver for fashion fabrics into a major supplier of industrial and outdoor textiles, partnering with brands such as Bradmill, Brella, and Wax Converters Textiles. Even when a devastating fire destroyed the factory in 2008, Nunzio rebuilt – stronger, better, and more committed than ever.
His crowning achievement came late last year, when DeFab acquired the intellectual property of Wax Converters. Through every chapter, Nunzio remained deeply committed to Australian manufacturing, quality, and above all, his people.
To those who worked with him, Nunzio was more than a boss – he was a mentor, sponsor, and fierce advocate. Known for his honesty, integrity and work ethic, he viewed his company not just as a workplace but as a family. He sponsored new arrivals to Australia, attended staff outings with genuine affection and maintained a deep loyalty to his team.
Outside the factory, Nunzio was a devoted husband to Susan, proud father to Giuseppe (Joe) and Marianna, and a loving grandfather. Though he achieved enormous success in business, it was family that mattered most.
Nunzio’s passing marks the end of an era, but his legacy is far from over. As his son Joe wrote in tribute, “You reminded us all not to give up. Just when you think the race is over, you must realise it is only part of the road. It will only end when you meet God – and not before.”
Nunzio De Petro leaves behind a thriving business, a close-knit family, and an indelible mark on the fabric of Australian industry. He will be remembered as a visionary and a gentleman.
