Trading as the Verna Toy Company, Eva Barnett began producing dolls and soft toys in 1941, in Melbourne. Known as a quality and creative doll maker, it was not until 1948, when ownership changed to Arthur Eaton, that teddies began to be produced. 1941-1948 Verna dolls were often made of fabric or felt, with cloth […]

The oldest and most prolific of the Australian soft toy manufacturers, Joy Toys is known for its quality. Highly sought – after by collectors, Joy Toys teddy bears command high prices on the Australian market. Early Days – 1920s The teddy bear industry began in Australia in South Yarra, Melbourne. Joy Toys commenced business in […]

In the early 1970s, Joy Toys was competing in a changed market. The removal of tariffs meant that toys produced more cheaply in Asia were able to flood the market, and this led to the closure of a large proportion of what had previously been very successful Australian toy companies. This catalogue, produced in about […]