Vale Peter Hudson
Vale Peter Hudson
The drycleaning industry and wider community mourn the loss of Peter Hudson, a pioneering business leader, committed community advocate, and cherished friend.
Peter came to the drycleaning world from a teaching background and, alongside his brother Jim, built and managed seven drycleaning plants. His passion and innovation quickly earned recognition, and in 1987 he was awarded the Australian Drycleaner of the Year. This honour enabled him to tour drycleaning operations across the globe, culminating in a well-received presentation of his experiences at the next Australian conference.
Deeply committed to his industry, Peter became an active member of the Drycleaning Institute of Australia (DIA). He served on the committee before stepping into the role of President, a position he held for seven years. Under his stewardship, the DIA saw meaningful improvements at both state and national levels. Peter also represented Victoria on the DIA National Council for many years and acted as Master of Ceremonies at numerous national and international conferences.
Peter and Jim were awarded the garment care contract for Melbourne’s new Crown Casino in 1992, establishing a highly successful industrial workwear business from their refurbished Old Geelong Road plant. Peter later joined with three other directors to form Ruggles Drycleaners—an ambitious franchise venture known for its modern, state-of-the-art facilities. Though it didn’t grow beyond four plants, the project fostered close friendships and weekly dinners that became cherished traditions.
His leadership extended beyond Australian borders. Peter was nominated—and accepted—as President of the prestigious International Drycleaning Congress in 1999, an organisation representing top drycleaners from around the world. Family and friends proudly joined him in Toronto, Canada for the inauguration. He was also a valued member of the Varsity Management Group, an elite US-based think tank for the industry’s top minds.
In time, Peter transitioned from drycleaning to coffee, joining his brother Bill to co-found Calvino Coffee, with 14 locations throughout major Victorian fuel stations. After several successful years, Peter sold his share of the business.
Beyond his professional achievements, Peter made a lasting impact in his community. He served as Mayor of Werribee and ran for State Parliament, narrowly missing out. He helped secure funding for the Werribee Hospital, played a key role in building the Werribee Arts Centre through support from Tattersalls, and chaired both the Werribee Strategic Business Group and the AFL Bulldogs Foundation—generating millions to support the club and the community.
On a personal note, Peter will be remembered for his warmth, hospitality, and infectious sense of fun. He and his beloved Maxine were the heart and soul of many DIA conferences and holidays with friends. Whether it was hosting getaways on the Murray River houseboat, sharing a laugh over dinners, or taking up fly fishing just for the adventure—Peter embraced life fully and joyfully.
He was always after the biggest fish—and in so many ways, he caught it. His legacy lives on through his family, friends, colleagues, and the countless people whose lives he touched.
He will be deeply missed.
— Written by Brian Tonkin, former DIA CEO