CELEBRATION: Smallaire owner Gary Small, right, was surprised by the presentation of a reclaimed, refurbished air-conditioning unit at Friday’s 50 years in business celebration.

“I made it 50-odd years ago, it was one of the first, and the first stainless steel one.

Stainless is a lot dearer, but it will last another 50 years,” he said. Beginning in a backyard at Rainbow, Smallaire now employees about 24 people, manufacturing products including air seeder parts and industrial air-conditioners.

“We are also working on a few green projects now, including Tarpfast, which uses the wind to develop energy, which will be beneficial at remote bunkers.” A plumber by trade, Mr Small has an inquiring mind.

“I just like that sort of thing, I like messing around with different ideas – I suppose that’s why my nickname is Gadget,” he said.

Mr Small is pictured with general manager Jock Baker.

The entire July 24, 2024 edition of The Weekly Advertiser is available online. READ IT HERE!