The factory complex on this site has had a long and varied history which reflects Richmond's changing economy over the 20th century. It was constructed in 1909 as Wertheim's Piano Factory, with the cornerstone laid by Prime Minister Alfred Deakin. This reflected the significance of the factory, as a large-scale enterprise built under new protectionist policies designed to encourage local manufacturing over importation. Wertheim's pianos were popular and well regarded, including by Nellie Melba, who reportedly refused to play any other brand of piano. The factory was affected by the Great Depression and closed in 1935, which coincided with the expansion of the American food company Heinz into the Australian market. Heinz acquired the factory in 1938 and used it to produce condiments, drinks and self-stable foods for distribution to service personnel during the Second World War. As Heinz's production scale outgrew the factory, the complex changed hands again as it was sold to GTV9, who used the former factory as television studios and offices, known as "Television City." Along with being the broadcast base for the 1956 Olympic Games, it was also the recording venue for some of Australia's most popular programmes, including IMT and the Graham Kennedy Show, The Footy Show, Sale of the Century, Hey Hey It's Saturday, and Rove Live. The complex ceased to be used as studios in 2001.
by laurenpiko on March 5, 2019Please login to comment on this item