A Look Back: The History of Timber Mills in Ipswich, Queensland
The city of Ipswich, located in Queensland, Australia, has a rich history that is closely tied to its timber industry. In the early days of European settlement, timber was a vital resource for construction, fuel, and industry, leading to the establishment of several timber mills in the area. These mills played a significant role in shaping the development and economy of Ipswich.
Early Beginnings: The history of timber mills in Ipswich can be traced back to the mid-19th century when the region was first settled by Europeans. The abundant supply of native hardwoods, such as Ironbark, Cypress Pine, and Hoop Pine, made Ipswich an ideal location for timber milling. The first timber mills in Ipswich were small-scale operations, often run by individual families or small businesses.
Expansion and Growth: With the growth of the local population and the increasing demand for timber, the timber industry in Ipswich expanded rapidly in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Several large timber mills were established during this period, employing hundreds of workers and producing vast quantities of timber products for both local use and export.
Technological Advancements: The timber industry in Ipswich saw significant technological advancements over the years. Steam-powered sawmills replaced manual labor, increasing efficiency and production capacity. Later, diesel and electric-powered mills further improved productivity, allowing for the processing of larger volumes of timber.
Decline and Legacy: Like many industries, the timber industry in Ipswich faced challenges in the latter half of the 20th century, including competition from other materials and changes in land use. Many of the historic timber mills in Ipswich have since closed down or been repurposed for other uses. However, the legacy of the timber industry lives on in the city's architecture, with many historic buildings constructed using locally sourced timber.
Preservation and Heritage: Today, there is a renewed interest in preserving the history and heritage of Ipswich's timber industry. Several historic timber mills have been restored and repurposed as museums, showcasing the rich history of timber milling in the area. These museums offer visitors a glimpse into the past, highlighting the importance of the timber industry in shaping the identity of Ipswich.
One of the most well known sawyers are the Hancock Brothers Sawmills. Thomas Hancock and sons were sawyers in the Pine Mountain area. They had a sawmill in the Rosewood Scrub area around 1867. When they moved to Ipswich they set up a timber yard in Upper Brisbane Street. Then in 1878 took over the lease of North Ipswich timber mill from James Reilly. Eventually they purchased this mill and set up a smaller one in Canning Street, North Ipswich. In 1885 Hancocks paid for the existing railway branch line to be extended to the sawmill in Lamington Parade. This meant logs could be transported to the mill by rail instead of boats. Around this time the mill was destroyed by fire but was soon rebuilt with expansions. As well as the mill there was a joinery, lathe department, and moulding plant. By 1886 the mill had 274 employees. The company continued to flourish until Boral bought the company in 1995 and closed it in 2011, then named Boral Hancock Plywood. In the early 21st century Boral Hancock had about 240 employees.
The history of timber mills in Ipswich is a testament to the city's rich heritage and industrial past. From humble beginnings to technological advancements, the timber industry has played a vital role in shaping the development and economy of Ipswich, leaving behind a legacy that is still evident in the city's landscape today.
