Historical information

Comet Windmills was founded in Rockhampton, Queensland in 1879 by Sidney Williams. The Comet became known as "Australia's Leading Mill". The company survived two world wars and three generations of the family and was sold in 1992 and terminated in 1998. The windmill is a vital farming tool as it assists with agriculture, irrigation, and water supply.

This windmill drew water from the 'Windmill Dam' for decades before Churchill Island's acquisition by Victorian Conservation Trust in 1976. In 1981, VCT invited BP Westernport Refinery Manager, John Shawley, to inspect the windmill with view of restoration. This was then done through the next year, as BP Social Club Members (including engineers, managers, and accountants) restored the pump, wheel, tower and piping. The wheel itself was lowered to the ground through a jury mast. The pressure from the windmill is weak, and was found to be brackish and excessively salty.

Significance

This windmill is anecdotally the oldest working mill of its model in Gippsland.

Its connection to Churchill Island is vital as it has been a fixture for the last 80 years.

Physical description

Windmill on metal stand "COMET" painted on silver vane. Restored in 1980s.