James N Kirby
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Sir James N Kirby CBE | |
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| Born | June 15, 1899 |
| Died | July 30, 1971 (aged 72) |
| Occupation | Industrialist, Philanthropist |
Sir James N Kirby (June 15 1899 - 30 July 1971) was an Australian industrialist and philanthripist, widely recognized for his significant contributions to the automotive and manufacturing industries in Australia. His innovative spirit and commitment to community betterment left an enduring mark on the country's industrial landscape and social fabric. He received the CBE in 1956 and was knighted in 1962.
Career
Within a year of launching his business, he settled a £2000 handover agreement with Howarth. Gaining recognition for his exceptional engine reconditioning skills, he transitioned from motorcycle repairs to car repairs as the automotive industry surged in popularity. The Kirby commitment to top-notch craftsmanship was already deeply ingrained in his employees, and Jim adopted the micrometer, a symbol of precision, as the hallmark of his business.
By 1932, Jim's workshop, located on Australia Street, Newtown, measuring 186 square meters (2000 square feet), was no longer sufficient for his team of 25 employees. On March 19th of that same year, coinciding with the official opening of the Sydney Harbour Bridge, Kirbys was in the midst of relocating to a property they owned on Salisbury Road, Camperdown. This facility primarily focused on producing car engine components and machining diesel engine blocks, crankshafts, and bearings for various modes of transportation, including trains, buses, and ships.
As the factory space expanded and the workforce grew, World War II erupted following the invasion of Poland by Adolf Hitler's troops. Around a year into the war, Jim received a personal commission to establish an aircraft engine production facility for CAC in Lidcombe, which ultimately played a crucial role in manufacturing the Rolls-Royce Merlin aircraft engine.
With the conclusion of the war, the path was cleared for the formal incorporation of the business as James N. Kirby Holdings Pty Ltd on September 24, 1946. Emphasising superior craftsmanship and loyalty to his employees, the company embarked on a complex transition into post-war manufacturing of consumer goods, including refrigerators. Under Jim's guidance, the factory production lines soon started producing Crosley refrigerators, television sets, Bendix washing machines, Pye transistor radios, and various other household products.
Honors and Recognition
James Kirby's contributions to both industry and philanthropy earned him numerous accolades and honors throughout his life. Some of the notable recognitions include bieng appointed C.B.E. in 1956 and knighted in 1962 for services to industry.
References
External links
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