Robert (Bob) White was born in 1938 in Sydney. After completing his schooling in Port Macquarie, he studied First Class Machining and worked at the Toowoomba Foundry in the 1950s.[5] Initially operating in Bob White's backyard, the business faced challenges from the Toowoomba Council regarding its location.[6] In 1965, due to differing visions for the company's future, White and Hagan amicably ended their partnership, splitting their assets and establishing separate businesses.[7]
Post-split, Bob White expanded White Industries, capitalising on the growth of the pig farming and cattle industries. By the late 1960s, the company outgrew its original location and moved to a larger site in Dalby.[7][8] During the late 1980s and early 1990s, Bob's sons Bruce, Neil, and Craig joined the business.
In 2001, White Industries acquired equipment and clients from the Rocklea Foundry. Subsequently, the company saw growth in the early 2000s, bolstered by the installation of the German-made BMD automated moulding line in the Dalby foundry.[7]
On June 10, 2021, White Industries announced its acquisition of the Bradken Ipswich site, encompassing both the business and its facilities. This move was a strategic response to Bradken's decision to shift its manufacturing operations overseas. Demonstrating a commitment to local industry and employment, White Industries decided to continue operating the foundry at the Karrabin site, hiring back many of Bradken's former employees.[9]
The Ipswich site was particularly significant for White Industries, as it was equipped to produce large castings, a capability beyond the reach of many other foundries in Australia. This capability allowed White Industries to diversify and expand its product range significantly. While the Dalby foundry was focused on producing castings ranging from 1kg to 1 tonne, the newly acquired Ipswich foundry specialised in manufacturing larger parts, ranging from 200kg to 20 tonnes. This expansion not only broadened White Industries' manufacturing capabilities but also enhanced its position in the Australian foundry industry.[10][9]
