When we think of admirable Australian inventions, it's hard to overlook the humble Hills Hoist clothesline. Many of us grew up with one in our backyards, and it has come to symbolise practicality and a certain distinctive Aussie charm. However, the company that launched this iconic invention has now gone into administration, marking a sad day for Australian manufacturing.

Hills Ltd, the once major Australian manufacturing firm responsible for the Hills Hoist clothesline, has collapsed following a significant loss in court. The company sold the manufacturing and sales rights of the Hills Hoist to AMES Australasia in 2017, as it could no longer profit from the iconic product.

The Hills Hoist is a rotary clothesline that can be adjusted in height, allowing for the efficient hanging of damp clothes. Source: Hills Home

The company's decline began when a court ruled in May favouring one of its suppliers, Stellar Vision Operators. Although the case between Hills Ltd and Stellar was initially thrown out in 2022, Stellar later won an appeal with a substantial $5.48m payout. Despite attempts to negotiate, the parties failed to reach an agreement, leading to Hills Ltd's collapse.

As part of AMES Australasia, Hills Home Living continues to manufacture and sell the Hills Hoist clothesline. They have tried to distance themselves from Hills Ltd, reassuring customers on their website with the statement, 'We're not going anywhere!' And clarifying that their products, warranties, and customers will not be affected by the unrelated organisation's decline.

The History of Hills Ltd and its Impact on Australian Culture​

The story of Hills Ltd began with a dream of making life easier for families across Australia. Lance Hill, an inspired innovator and war veteran, developed the first Hills Hoist prototype in his Adelaide backyard in 1945. He crafted a rotating clothesline that could easily be raised and lowered using leftover materials to save space and make drying clothes less cumbersome. Little did he know his simple invention would become an enduring symbol of Australian culture and practicality.

An image showcasing Vintage Hills Rotary Clothes Hoists. Source: Hills Home

From this modest beginning, Hills Ltd found rapid success, thanks to the ingenuity of their groundbreaking product. The name 'Hills Hoist' quickly became synonymous with innovation and resilience, as the robust design adapted to the varying Australian weather conditions.

While everyone may not warmly receive the Hills Ltd name, there is comfort in knowing that their landmark Australian invention, the Hills Hoist, remains a towering symbol of our heritage, proudly enduring in our backyards.

As creditors plan to convene in a meeting anticipated before June 15, we are drawn into a nostalgic reflection on the company's rich history and the national pride stirred by the iconic Hills Hoist’s representation of Australia on the global platform.

Key Takeaways

• Hills Ltd, the company behind the iconic Australian invention, the Hills Hoist clothesline, has gone into administration following a loss in court.
• The collapse comes after a $5.48 million payout was ordered for Stellar Vision Operators due to the contractual dispute involving Hills Health Solutions.
• In 2017, Hills Ltd sold the manufacturing and sales rights of the Hills Hoist to AMES Australasia, which still makes and sells the product under the name Hills Home Living.
• Administrators Hall Chadwick will take over the company, which also manufactures audio products and car parts, and a meeting with creditors is set to occur before June 15th.

The Hills Hoist has seamlessly interwoven itself into the fabric of our lives, transforming from a humble backyard fixture to the centrepiece of the infamous 'Goon of Fortune' drinking game. Even in tough times like these, we can find comfort in the things we share and the traditions that keep us connected.

What are your thoughts on this story and the impact of the Hills Hoist on our shared Australian culture? Do you have any special memories or personal stories about using the Hills Hoist in your backyard? We'd love to hear your stories! Please share them with us in the comment section below.

 

[Gezzar]

When we think of admirable Australian inventions, it's hard to overlook the humble Hills Hoist clothesline. Many of us grew up with one in our backyards, and it has come to symbolise practicality and a certain distinctive Aussie charm. However, the company that launched this iconic invention has now gone into administration, marking a sad day for Australian manufacturing.

Hills Ltd, the once major Australian manufacturing firm responsible for the Hills Hoist clothesline, has collapsed following a significant loss in court. The company sold the manufacturing and sales rights of the Hills Hoist to AMES Australasia in 2017, as it could no longer profit from the iconic product.

View attachment 21580

The Hills Hoist is a rotary clothesline that can be adjusted in height, allowing for the efficient hanging of damp clothes. Source: Hills Home

The company's decline began when a court ruled in May favouring one of its suppliers, Stellar Vision Operators. Although the case between Hills Ltd and Stellar was initially thrown out in 2022, Stellar later won an appeal with a substantial $5.48m payout. Despite attempts to negotiate, the parties failed to reach an agreement, leading to Hills Ltd's collapse.

As part of AMES Australasia, Hills Home Living continues to manufacture and sell the Hills Hoist clothesline. They have tried to distance themselves from Hills Ltd, reassuring customers on their website with the statement, 'We're not going anywhere!' And clarifying that their products, warranties, and customers will not be affected by the unrelated organisation's decline.

The History of Hills Ltd and its Impact on Australian Culture​

The story of Hills Ltd began with a dream of making life easier for families across Australia. Lance Hill, an inspired innovator and war veteran, developed the first Hills Hoist prototype in his Adelaide backyard in 1945. He crafted a rotating clothesline that could easily be raised and lowered using leftover materials to save space and make drying clothes less cumbersome. Little did he know his simple invention would become an enduring symbol of Australian culture and practicality.

View attachment 21579

An image showcasing Vintage Hills Rotary Clothes Hoists. Source: Hills Home

From this modest beginning, Hills Ltd found rapid success, thanks to the ingenuity of their groundbreaking product. The name 'Hills Hoist' quickly became synonymous with innovation and resilience, as the robust design adapted to the varying Australian weather conditions.

While everyone may not warmly receive the Hills Ltd name, there is comfort in knowing that their landmark Australian invention, the Hills Hoist, remains a towering symbol of our heritage, proudly enduring in our backyards.

As creditors plan to convene in a meeting anticipated before June 15, we are drawn into a nostalgic reflection on the company's rich history and the national pride stirred by the iconic Hills Hoist’s representation of Australia on the global platform.

Key Takeaways

• Hills Ltd, the company behind the iconic Australian invention, the Hills Hoist clothesline, has gone into administration following a loss in court.
• The collapse comes after a $5.48 million payout was ordered for Stellar Vision Operators due to the contractual dispute involving Hills Health Solutions.
• In 2017, Hills Ltd sold the manufacturing and sales rights of the Hills Hoist to AMES Australasia, which still makes and sells the product under the name Hills Home Living.
• Administrators Hall Chadwick will take over the company, which also manufactures audio products and car parts, and a meeting with creditors is set to occur before June 15th.

The Hills Hoist has seamlessly interwoven itself into the fabric of our lives, transforming from a humble backyard fixture to the centrepiece of the infamous 'Goon of Fortune' drinking game. Even in tough times like these, we can find comfort in the things we share and the traditions that keep us connected.

What are your thoughts on this story and the impact of the Hills Hoist on our shared Australian culture? Do you have any special memories or personal stories about using the Hills Hoist in your backyard? We'd love to hear your stories! Please share them with us in the comment section below.

Great invention but such an eyesore in the garden. But so typically Australian so often lacking esthetics.

 

[aquarius123]

I worked for Hills Telefix in Adelaide in the 1960's and this was a division of the Hills group of companies. It was very busy there on the switchboard all the time as people wanted their televisions repaired. The repairmen went to the house to fix tv sets. These days it's not worth repairing televisions, they get thrown away and replaced. I actually knew Lance Hill and Bob Ling. It's a shame to see the company go under.

 

[Loubeauxarts]

It seems as though everything we grew up with is disappearing bit by bit. Quite sad really

 

[elaine41]

Great invention but such an eyesore in the garden. But so typically Australian so often lacking esthetics.

It's less of an eyesore its predecessor - a clothesline with a prop which blew over on a windy day.

 

[Claragisela]

Great invention but such an eyesore in the garden. But so typically Australian so often lacking esthetics.

If it comes to a choice between your “eyesore” and an environmentaLy sound means of drying several loads of washing, it’s the Hills Hoist every time! I still have one and I expect it will outlast me. It’s also surrounded by lovely native garden and set back from the road, so not an eyesore!

 

[Observer]

Thats a bit sad. Was one of the best pieces of backyard play equipment for our young ones.

 

[StarTrekker]

The Company said it wasn't going anywhere. Another heading just to grab the reader with misleading information.

 

[Mimi76]

When we think of admirable Australian inventions, it's hard to overlook the humble Hills Hoist clothesline. Many of us grew up with one in our backyards, and it has come to symbolise practicality and a certain distinctive Aussie charm. However, the company that launched this iconic invention has now gone into administration, marking a sad day for Australian manufacturing.

Hills Ltd, the once major Australian manufacturing firm responsible for the Hills Hoist clothesline, has collapsed following a significant loss in court. The company sold the manufacturing and sales rights of the Hills Hoist to AMES Australasia in 2017, as it could no longer profit from the iconic product.

View attachment 21580

The Hills Hoist is a rotary clothesline that can be adjusted in height, allowing for the efficient hanging of damp clothes. Source: Hills Home

The company's decline began when a court ruled in May favouring one of its suppliers, Stellar Vision Operators. Although the case between Hills Ltd and Stellar was initially thrown out in 2022, Stellar later won an appeal with a substantial $5.48m payout. Despite attempts to negotiate, the parties failed to reach an agreement, leading to Hills Ltd's collapse.

As part of AMES Australasia, Hills Home Living continues to manufacture and sell the Hills Hoist clothesline. They have tried to distance themselves from Hills Ltd, reassuring customers on their website with the statement, 'We're not going anywhere!' And clarifying that their products, warranties, and customers will not be affected by the unrelated organisation's decline.

The History of Hills Ltd and its Impact on Australian Culture​

The story of Hills Ltd began with a dream of making life easier for families across Australia. Lance Hill, an inspired innovator and war veteran, developed the first Hills Hoist prototype in his Adelaide backyard in 1945. He crafted a rotating clothesline that could easily be raised and lowered using leftover materials to save space and make drying clothes less cumbersome. Little did he know his simple invention would become an enduring symbol of Australian culture and practicality.

View attachment 21579

An image showcasing Vintage Hills Rotary Clothes Hoists. Source: Hills Home

From this modest beginning, Hills Ltd found rapid success, thanks to the ingenuity of their groundbreaking product. The name 'Hills Hoist' quickly became synonymous with innovation and resilience, as the robust design adapted to the varying Australian weather conditions.

While everyone may not warmly receive the Hills Ltd name, there is comfort in knowing that their landmark Australian invention, the Hills Hoist, remains a towering symbol of our heritage, proudly enduring in our backyards.

As creditors plan to convene in a meeting anticipated before June 15, we are drawn into a nostalgic reflection on the company's rich history and the national pride stirred by the iconic Hills Hoist’s representation of Australia on the global platform.

Key Takeaways

• Hills Ltd, the company behind the iconic Australian invention, the Hills Hoist clothesline, has gone into administration following a loss in court.
• The collapse comes after a $5.48 million payout was ordered for Stellar Vision Operators due to the contractual dispute involving Hills Health Solutions.
• In 2017, Hills Ltd sold the manufacturing and sales rights of the Hills Hoist to AMES Australasia, which still makes and sells the product under the name Hills Home Living.
• Administrators Hall Chadwick will take over the company, which also manufactures audio products and car parts, and a meeting with creditors is set to occur before June 15th.

The Hills Hoist has seamlessly interwoven itself into the fabric of our lives, transforming from a humble backyard fixture to the centrepiece of the infamous 'Goon of Fortune' drinking game. Even in tough times like these, we can find comfort in the things we share and the traditions that keep us connected.

What are your thoughts on this story and the impact of the Hills Hoist on our shared Australian culture? Do you have any special memories or personal stories about using the Hills Hoist in your backyard? We'd love to hear your stories! Please share them with us in the comment section below.

I have one in my backyard and move it around chasing the sun through the year. Love my clothes drying in the fresh air. Can be folded down or even removed if needed. Better for the environment!!

 

[Suzanne rose]

I think the new generation will be using clothes dryers even with the cost of electricity.

I loved my hills clothes line. Hubby hated it and one day while I was at work he got rid off it abd replaced it with one of those horrible lines that most units have it's rectangle with lines in a row, it doesn’t dry as well as the normal hills hoist, doesn't go up or down and hey grand kids can't swing on it like their parents did

 

[PepeLePew]

Remember very clearly when my parents got a Hills Hoist to replace the lines of wire held up with the Y post. What fun times we had swinging around on that till we broke it and couldn't sit down for a week. LOL.
But Karma comes around and my children did the same thing and broke the line by swinging on it, luckily for me the pole was just about rusted through so the Landlord replaced it. Move on many yrs later and my grandkids did the same thing to the one in my yard now. Thankfully their Dad was able to weld it back together.
I think it's so sad that most kids of today will never experience a Hills Hoist in the back yard as homes are now on such small blocks of land that they can't accommodate one, all they have are the lines from the side of the houses or fences.

 

[Uno]

I still have my Hills Hoist wouldn't be without it. It is the original, fixed with metal lines. . It has been moved but it is still the same. Had it for 50 years. Great for sheets and Dooner covers. A lot cheaper to use than electricity.

 

[Kinchar]

When we think of admirable Australian inventions, it's hard to overlook the humble Hills Hoist clothesline. Many of us grew up with one in our backyards, and it has come to symbolise practicality and a certain distinctive Aussie charm. However, the company that launched this iconic invention has now gone into administration, marking a sad day for Australian manufacturing.

Hills Ltd, the once major Australian manufacturing firm responsible for the Hills Hoist clothesline, has collapsed following a significant loss in court. The company sold the manufacturing and sales rights of the Hills Hoist to AMES Australasia in 2017, as it could no longer profit from the iconic product.

View attachment 21580

The Hills Hoist is a rotary clothesline that can be adjusted in height, allowing for the efficient hanging of damp clothes. Source: Hills Home

The company's decline began when a court ruled in May favouring one of its suppliers, Stellar Vision Operators. Although the case between Hills Ltd and Stellar was initially thrown out in 2022, Stellar later won an appeal with a substantial $5.48m payout. Despite attempts to negotiate, the parties failed to reach an agreement, leading to Hills Ltd's collapse.

As part of AMES Australasia, Hills Home Living continues to manufacture and sell the Hills Hoist clothesline. They have tried to distance themselves from Hills Ltd, reassuring customers on their website with the statement, 'We're not going anywhere!' And clarifying that their products, warranties, and customers will not be affected by the unrelated organisation's decline.

The History of Hills Ltd and its Impact on Australian Culture​

The story of Hills Ltd began with a dream of making life easier for families across Australia. Lance Hill, an inspired innovator and war veteran, developed the first Hills Hoist prototype in his Adelaide backyard in 1945. He crafted a rotating clothesline that could easily be raised and lowered using leftover materials to save space and make drying clothes less cumbersome. Little did he know his simple invention would become an enduring symbol of Australian culture and practicality.

View attachment 21579

An image showcasing Vintage Hills Rotary Clothes Hoists. Source: Hills Home

From this modest beginning, Hills Ltd found rapid success, thanks to the ingenuity of their groundbreaking product. The name 'Hills Hoist' quickly became synonymous with innovation and resilience, as the robust design adapted to the varying Australian weather conditions.

While everyone may not warmly receive the Hills Ltd name, there is comfort in knowing that their landmark Australian invention, the Hills Hoist, remains a towering symbol of our heritage, proudly enduring in our backyards.

As creditors plan to convene in a meeting anticipated before June 15, we are drawn into a nostalgic reflection on the company's rich history and the national pride stirred by the iconic Hills Hoist’s representation of Australia on the global platform.

Key Takeaways

• Hills Ltd, the company behind the iconic Australian invention, the Hills Hoist clothesline, has gone into administration following a loss in court.
• The collapse comes after a $5.48 million payout was ordered for Stellar Vision Operators due to the contractual dispute involving Hills Health Solutions.
• In 2017, Hills Ltd sold the manufacturing and sales rights of the Hills Hoist to AMES Australasia, which still makes and sells the product under the name Hills Home Living.
• Administrators Hall Chadwick will take over the company, which also manufactures audio products and car parts, and a meeting with creditors is set to occur before June 15th.

The Hills Hoist has seamlessly interwoven itself into the fabric of our lives, transforming from a humble backyard fixture to the centrepiece of the infamous 'Goon of Fortune' drinking game. Even in tough times like these, we can find comfort in the things we share and the traditions that keep us connected.

What are your thoughts on this story and the impact of the Hills Hoist on our shared Australian culture? Do you have any special memories or personal stories about using the Hills Hoist in your backyard? We'd love to hear your stories! Please share them with us in the comment section below.

 

[Kinchar]

I have fond memories of Hills. From the rotary clothes hoist we had growing up. Also as I entered the electronics industry, they were leaders with their TV antennas and accessories. Proven the best. The staff I got to know was very well, and helpful. Sad times.

 

[gracetumut]

If it comes to a choice between your “eyesore” and an environmentaLy sound means of drying several loads of washing, it’s the Hills Hoist every time! I still have one and I expect it will outlast me. It’s also surrounded by lovely native garden and set back from the road, so not an eyesore!

Love Hills Hoist rotary line....a great invention for all households. Grateful thanks to these great inventors.... from v grateful 93+ yr young customer. (T's mum. )

 

[VeeFar]

I wouldn’t be without my Hills hoist so when we had to down size I insisted on have one in the new house. The yard was very much smaller so I made a canvas cover and it doubles as a covered area for the outside dinning table. Works a treat and all my friends now think I’m very clever indeed.

 

[Luckyus]

I wouldn't be without the hoist in my back yard, dries thr clothes in half thr timr with it's rotary action.

 

[Ricki]

When we think of admirable Australian inventions, it's hard to overlook the humble Hills Hoist clothesline. Many of us grew up with one in our backyards, and it has come to symbolise practicality and a certain distinctive Aussie charm. However, the company that launched this iconic invention has now gone into administration, marking a sad day for Australian manufacturing.

Hills Ltd, the once major Australian manufacturing firm responsible for the Hills Hoist clothesline, has collapsed following a significant loss in court. The company sold the manufacturing and sales rights of the Hills Hoist to AMES Australasia in 2017, as it could no longer profit from the iconic product.

View attachment 21580

The Hills Hoist is a rotary clothesline that can be adjusted in height, allowing for the efficient hanging of damp clothes. Source: Hills Home

The company's decline began when a court ruled in May favouring one of its suppliers, Stellar Vision Operators. Although the case between Hills Ltd and Stellar was initially thrown out in 2022, Stellar later won an appeal with a substantial $5.48m payout. Despite attempts to negotiate, the parties failed to reach an agreement, leading to Hills Ltd's collapse.

As part of AMES Australasia, Hills Home Living continues to manufacture and sell the Hills Hoist clothesline. They have tried to distance themselves from Hills Ltd, reassuring customers on their website with the statement, 'We're not going anywhere!' And clarifying that their products, warranties, and customers will not be affected by the unrelated organisation's decline.

The History of Hills Ltd and its Impact on Australian Culture​

The story of Hills Ltd began with a dream of making life easier for families across Australia. Lance Hill, an inspired innovator and war veteran, developed the first Hills Hoist prototype in his Adelaide backyard in 1945. He crafted a rotating clothesline that could easily be raised and lowered using leftover materials to save space and make drying clothes less cumbersome. Little did he know his simple invention would become an enduring symbol of Australian culture and practicality.

View attachment 21579

An image showcasing Vintage Hills Rotary Clothes Hoists. Source: Hills Home

From this modest beginning, Hills Ltd found rapid success, thanks to the ingenuity of their groundbreaking product. The name 'Hills Hoist' quickly became synonymous with innovation and resilience, as the robust design adapted to the varying Australian weather conditions.

While everyone may not warmly receive the Hills Ltd name, there is comfort in knowing that their landmark Australian invention, the Hills Hoist, remains a towering symbol of our heritage, proudly enduring in our backyards.

As creditors plan to convene in a meeting anticipated before June 15, we are drawn into a nostalgic reflection on the company's rich history and the national pride stirred by the iconic Hills Hoist’s representation of Australia on the global platform.

Key Takeaways

• Hills Ltd, the company behind the iconic Australian invention, the Hills Hoist clothesline, has gone into administration following a loss in court.
• The collapse comes after a $5.48 million payout was ordered for Stellar Vision Operators due to the contractual dispute involving Hills Health Solutions.
• In 2017, Hills Ltd sold the manufacturing and sales rights of the Hills Hoist to AMES Australasia, which still makes and sells the product under the name Hills Home Living.
• Administrators Hall Chadwick will take over the company, which also manufactures audio products and car parts, and a meeting with creditors is set to occur before June 15th.

The Hills Hoist has seamlessly interwoven itself into the fabric of our lives, transforming from a humble backyard fixture to the centrepiece of the infamous 'Goon of Fortune' drinking game. Even in tough times like these, we can find comfort in the things we share and the traditions that keep us connected.

What are your thoughts on this story and the impact of the Hills Hoist on our shared Australian culture? Do you have any special memories or personal stories about using the Hills Hoist in your backyard? We'd love to hear your stories! Please share them with us in the comment section below.

It's a sad day for Hills and the rest of us. Although we can still buy a Hills Hoist it's no longer the company so many grew up with

 

[Gsr]

Great invention but such an eyesore in the garden. But so typically Australian so often lacking esthetics.

These days the clothesline’s fold up and can even be taken out of the ground socket and stored somewhere when not in use or if the space is needed for a party etc. Be a pain taking it out all the time though.

 

[Gsr]

It's less of an eyesore its predecessor - a clothesline with a prop which blew over on a windy day.

I would readily go back to the lines with a prop, I grew up using them and loved them. I now have a pull out line between two posts with six lines, have had it for over twenty five years but the lines are starting to fray so hubby wants to buy a rotary clothesline to replace it as he thinks it will be too hard to replace the lines on my existing clothesline. I had a rotary line at our first home but got sick of chasing the line around to get the clothes on it on a windy day so opted for the straight lines when we moved. Now I believe the rotary lines have a stop mechanism to lock them in one position so if I get one I won’t have to chase it around on windy days to peg the washing on it. My children both enjoyed swinging on the rotary line when I had it, and I sneaked a few swings as we never had one when I was growing up. It was quite enjoyable. Luckily it never broke so we didn’t have to explain it to hubby.