OutdoorKing Repair Forum Forums The History Forum Company Histories PLATYPUS: 1946-1956 - Who Were They?

UPDATE - 2017 - Brochure
In early 2017 a Platypus brochure was sent to me by Grant Simpson.
This was an exciting find � the only Platypus brochure known to exist!

Acknowledge and thanks to Warrick Hansted and Grant Simpson for the scanning
and permission to use this important historical document.

The brochure itself presents as a trifold layout, produced (it would seem) by
the Queensland agent, C & A Wilkey, of Queen Street, Brisbane. I date this brochure
to about 1955 � because it does not include the Platypus rotary of 1956.

Interestingly, the brochure includes �The Platypus Story�. I think that story contains
a couple of historical errors. The main one being the claim, �In 1944, they were markets
both as electric and petrol-driven machines �. I am not sure about that � given
wartime restrictions on the sale of lawnmowers. The earliest record I have for Platypus is
from 1946; the earliest record I have for sale of petrol machines is from 1954 (not 1944).

Nonetheless, this brochure shows the 12�, 15�, 17� and 20� reel mowers in electric and
petrol variants � including Brisbane prices! The brochure confirms that the Johnson
Ironhorse 4-stroke design was made by the Cooper Engineering Company.