RAYMOND SHERWELL

Raymond George Sherwell (1935 - 2006) was an Australian engineer, manufacturer, and entrepreneur whose career spanned regional manufacturing, mechanical engineering, and aviation related ventures. He is best known as the founder of Sherwell Manufacturing, an agricultural engineering company established in Nhill, Victoria, during the mid-twentieth century.

Through his work in Nhill, Raymond became a well-known figure in the district, combining practical engineering ability with an entrepreneurial approach to business. He was actively involved in community life and participated in local organisations including the Nhill Aero Club, the Nhill Brass Band, and Apex, reflecting his engagement with the civic and social activities of the region during the years he lived and worked there. He was a keen water-skier and owned a speedboat as well as his own Cessna aircraft.

Beginning with small-scale engineering and fabrication work, Sherwell established Sherwell Manufacturing in Nhill, which developed into a significant regional enterprise producing agricultural equipment distributed across Australia. He is particularly associated with the development of the PTO-driven field bin, an innovation that improved the efficiency of grain harvesting operations.

Raymond’s interests extended beyond manufacturing. In later years he relocated to the Gold Coast in Queensland, where he was involved in additional business ventures including motor reconditioning for vintage cars and aviation-related activities. He was named among then Top 50 Movers and Shakers of the Gold Coast in a Gold Coast magazine feature.

He was known for his practical problem-solving approach, hands-on involvement in his projects and an understanding of the needs of regional industries and communities. His career reflects the contribution of regional entrepreneurs to Australian agricultural and industrial development during the second half of the twentieth century.

He is remembered by family, colleagues and community members for his energy, determination and commitment to his work. His work continues to be reflected in the widespread use of Sherwell field bins and related equipment throughout Australia.