Bryant and May | Redheads |
Redheads matches were manufactured in the Bryant and May factory located in Church Street, Cremorne (Richmond).
Bryant and May was well known for providing workers with excellent working conditions and amenities including a dining hall and sports facilities such as a tennis court and bowling green.
The former Bryant and May Industrial Complex is a superb, largely intact Edwardian factory complex built in 1909 to a design by William Pitt.
Many Melburnians will remember the huge fire that tore through the building in the 1960's forcing the staff out onto the footpaths as fireman worked to control the blaze. We (this writer) were school children attending the nearby Richmond High School, watched in awe as the fire took hold. The fire featured prominently on the television news that evening.
Sadly, now another Australian icon is now in the hands of of overseas operations, although it should be said, Bryant and May was always a British owned company.
Every Australian knows and trusts the Redheads brand
REDHEAD turns 60
STRIKING REDHEAD ICON CELEBRATES 60th ANNIVERSARY
Every Australian knows and trusts the Redheads brand and their leading lady, affectionately known as Miss Redheads; a contemporary beauty that has done it all, from her humble beginnings in Richmond to the striking icon she has become today.
It was the welcome introduction to Australia of the 'Safety Match' that was the catalyst for the Redhead name which was originally derived from the red striking head of the new match.
The earlier 'Strike Anywhere' matches were made with a poisonous white phosphorous and were, as their name implied, very sensitive to friction with any surface.
The marvel of the Redhead Safety Match was that it could only ignite if struck against the specially painted edge of the matchbox.
Soon the famous 'Redhead' lady assumed a personality of her own and while this year may be her 60th Anniversary, time has only improved this fiery icon who is always on hand to light-up any occasion.Since her birth in 1947, Miss Redheads has continued to evolve to reflect Australian life. From her post war '1940s look' through the swinging 60s and power mad 80s - she has been with you through it all.
REDHEAD MODEL SEARCH 2007
Originally, an Australian model was used to create the Redhead profile, now so well known. With her 60th anniversary being celebrated this year, Redheads is keen for any information as to where she may be today.
Today the Redhead logo continues to be instantly recognisable by the majority of Australians and she is much deserving of her icon status. Each year Australians use over 2 billion Redhead matches.
No candle is too small or BBQ too big for this powerful lady who can truly be said to be part of Australian folklore and always safe, dependable and ready to strike into action. Join the Australian public in remembering our heritage and light 60 candles to celebrate this momentous anniversary.
❊ Address ❊
⊜ 570 Church Street Cremorne 3121 View Map
✆ Telephone: James Thomas 03 9522 9907
❊ Web Links ❊
➼ Bryant and May | Redheads
➼ View Media Release - REDHEAD CELEBRATES 60th ANNIVERSARY (PDF)
➼ www.wikipedia.org/Bryant_and_May_Factory
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