🏭 The George Kent Perth Branch (c. 1906–1934+) A British Meter Giant Reaches Western Australia By the early 20th century, George Kent Ltd — one of the world’s most influential water‑meter manufacturers — extended its reach from London and Luton to the rapidly developing cities of Australia. Among its overseas outposts, the Perth branch played a key role in supporting Western Australia’s growing demand for accurate water measurement during a period of urban expansion, agricultural development, and infrastructure modernization. A Strategic Outpost for a Global Manufacturer Although George Kent’s primary manufacturing works were located in Luton, England, the company established a Perth branch by at least 1906, during a major phase of international expansion. Perth appears prominently in Kent’s catalogues and corporate literature of the era, listed alongside London and Luton as an official operating location. The Perth branch may not have been a full manufacturing plant. Instead, it may have served as a: - distribution centre for imported Kent meters - assembly and calibration point for local installations - service and repair depot for municipal and industrial clients - technical advisory office for engineers and water authorities This model mirrored Kent’s global strategy: manufacture in England, support locally. Supporting Western Australia’s Water Revolution From the early 1900s onward, Western Australia faced rising water demand driven by: - goldfields expansion - agricultural settlement - suburban growth - new municipal water schemes