The I.B.C. story began in 1888 when an originally Canadian company arrived to drill artesian bores and wells in Queensland. The company gradually diversified and at the first I.B.C. AGM in 1914, the director reported that 11 acres at Yeerongpilly had been bought to build a factory and workshops, with permission granted for a dedicated railway siding. The works were transferred from Ann St in the city by the end of 1914. One of the main products was the Hercules windmill, but catalogues show a variety of industrial products. It was soon realized that there was a greater need for water than oil in the pre-motor car era and the Intercolonial Boring Company was formed. Later, the Company expanded into the manufacture and merchandising of tools and allied products for secondary industry, agriculture, mining and water meters. Originally located at 450-460 Ann Street, Brisbane, QLD, then relocated to the corner of Wilkie and Station Roads, Yeerongpilly Brisbane QLD from 1914 up until the 1970s. Water Meters The H.W.M.Museum recently acquired a rare 3/4" model for its collection which had been discovered buried in Cooparoo QLD. There are no records to indicate if the company manufactured other sizes. The meter bares strong resemblance with the other meter manufacturers' model of the day, so there is speculation that common sub-contractor parts and perhaps foundries (simply rebranding models) were being used. 📜 Timeline of Operations • 1890s beginnings: I.B.C. was already active by the late 19th century, drilling artesian bores and supplying pumping equipment across Queensland, Northern Territory and perhaps other states. • 1920s–1930s expansion: The company diversified into manufacturing water meters, windmills (notably the Simplex), and other industrial hardware. • Post-1930s: Evidence suggests the company’s prominence in water meter manufacture declined, with other engineering firms taking over contracts. • 1940s peak: Reports from 1940 describe a “record year” for the company, showing it was still thriving during WWII. • 1970 closure/takeover: Official records confirm that Intercolonial Boring Company Limited was delisted on 1 July 1970 after being taken over by Dunlop Australia Limited. (Information sourced from Annerley-Stephens History Group, Trove and Alex Manu)