The True Story of the Hills Hoist Inventor: Lance Hill and Australia’s Legendary Rotary Clothesline

In the sun-drenched backyards of post-war Australia, a simple yet revolutionary device transformed the daily chore of drying laundry into an efficient ritual. This invention, known worldwide as the Hills Hoist, emerged from the ingenuity of an Adelaide man determined to solve a common household problem. Its design, allowing clothes to spin in the breeze while being easily adjustable, quickly became synonymous with suburban life Down Under.

Lance Hill, a World War II veteran with a background in engineering, returned home to face the realities of family life in a growing nation. His creation was not born in a high-tech laboratory but in the modest confines of his own backyard workshop. Driven by practical needs and a keen eye for improvement, Hill’s work would go on to influence generations of Australians and become a symbol of national pride.

The device’s rise to fame coincided with Australia’s post-war housing boom, where spacious backyards demanded innovative solutions for everyday tasks. As families expanded and urban sprawl took hold, the need for durable, space-saving laundry systems grew. Hill’s invention filled this gap perfectly, offering reliability in the harsh Australian climate.

Early attempts at rotary drying systems predated Hill’s efforts by decades, reflecting a long history of Australian innovation in household tools. Inventors tinkered with basic frames that could rotate to catch the wind, aiming to maximize drying efficiency. These precursors laid the groundwork for what would become a cultural staple.

One notable figure in this lineage was Colin Stewart, who, alongside Allan Harley, patented an improved rotary and tilting clothes drying rack in 1895. Their design featured a tilting mechanism to make hanging easier, addressing the physical strain of laundry work. Though rudimentary, it highlighted the ongoing quest for better backyard utilities.

Gilbert Toyne, a Geelong blacksmith, advanced the concept significantly in the early 20th century. He patented multiple versions between 1911 and 1926, including an all-metal model with an enclosed gear system for smooth operation. Toyne’s innovations focused on durability and ease of use, setting standards that later designs would build upon.

Toyne’s business faced interruptions from World War I, but his patents influenced subsequent developments. By the 1920s, his Aeroplane Clothes Hoist Company marketed these devices, though production challenges limited widespread adoption. The expiration of his key patents in the 1940s opened the door for new entrepreneurs to refine and commercialize the idea.

Gerhard “Pop” Kaesler also contributed a prototype in the interwar period, creating a wooden model that emphasized height adjustability. His design prioritized accessibility for users of varying heights, making it more user-friendly for families. Kaesler’s work, though not mass-produced, demonstrated the potential for rotary systems in everyday homes.

Lance Hill’s Early Life and Inspirations

Born on December 15, 1902, in Knoxville, Adelaide, Lancelot Leonard Hill grew up in a working-class family. His father, Alfred William Hill, was a carpenter, instilling in young Lance a love for hands-on craftsmanship. From an early age, Hill showed aptitude for mechanics, often repairing household items and experimenting with tools.

After leaving school, Hill pursued apprenticeships in engineering and metalwork, honing skills that would prove invaluable later. The Great Depression tested his resilience, as he navigated job scarcity while supporting his growing family. These experiences shaped his practical approach to problem-solving.

World War II interrupted Hill’s civilian life when he served in the Australian military, contributing to engineering efforts. Upon returning in 1945, he faced the challenges of readjusting to peacetime, including managing a household with his wife, Moira. A pivotal moment came when Moira struggled with their existing clothesline, obstructed by a lemon tree in their yard.

This everyday frustration sparked Hill’s inventive spark. He envisioned a device that could rise above obstacles, rotate for even drying, and collapse for storage. Drawing from expired patents and local designs, Hill began prototyping in his Glenunga backyard, using scrap materials to test concepts.

The Invention Process and Challenges

Hill acquired Kaesler’s wooden prototype and plans, adapting them with metal components for greater strength. His initial model featured a central pole with radiating arms, wound by a handle for height adjustment. Testing involved hanging heavy loads to ensure stability in windy conditions.

Early prototypes faced issues like rusting and gear jamming, common in Australia’s variable weather. Hill iterated on materials, opting for galvanized steel to resist corrosion. This choice not only extended the product’s lifespan but also made it suitable for coastal regions prone to salt exposure.

By late 1945, Hill had a functional version that impressed neighbors. Word spread through local networks, leading to initial orders. Balancing production with his day job proved taxing, but Hill’s determination kept the momentum going.

In 1946, Hill partnered with his brother-in-law, Harold Ling, to formalize operations. They dropped the apostrophe in “Hills Hoist” for branding simplicity. Production shifted from backyard to a small workshop on Glen Osmond Road, allowing for scaled output.

Key Milestones in the Hills Hoist Evolution

• 1895 Patent by Stewart and Harley: This early design introduced tilting for easier access, reducing back strain during hanging. It set a foundation for user-centric features in later models. Though not rotary in the modern sense, it influenced adjustable elements.
• 1911 Toyne’s First Patent: Gilbert Toyne’s initial rotary hoist focused on rotation for wind exposure. His Aeroplane Company marketed it pre-World War I, but production halted due to global conflicts. This milestone highlighted the commercial potential of rotary systems.
• 1925 Toyne’s All-Metal Version: Incorporating an enclosed gear mechanism, this improved durability and smoothness. It addressed weather-related wear, making it viable for Australian outdoors. Patent expiration in 1941 allowed broader adoption.
• 1945 Hill’s Prototype: Lance Hill built his first model in Adelaide, inspired by household needs. Using galvanized steel, it emphasized height adjustability. This version marked the shift to mass-market readiness.
• 1946 Company Formation: Partnering with Harold Ling, Hill founded the business officially. Initial models were handcrafted, gaining local popularity. This step transitioned from hobby to industry leader.
• 1954 Factory Expansion: Relocation to Edwardstown enabled larger production runs. Automation elements were introduced, boosting efficiency. This expansion met growing national demand.
• 1974 Cyclone Tracy Survival: A Darwin family’s hoist withstood the disaster, becoming a symbol of resilience. Media coverage amplified its reputation. This event underscored the product’s robust engineering.
• 2017 Sale to AMES: Manufacturing rights transferred to an American firm, shifting production overseas. It preserved the brand while adapting to global markets. This change reflected evolving industry dynamics.

The company’s growth mirrored Australia’s economic recovery, with exports beginning in the 1950s. By the 1960s, Hills Hoists dotted backyards nationwide, symbolizing prosperity. Innovations like color options and foldable arms kept the product relevant.

Cultural and Social Impact

The Hills Hoist transcended its utility to become a cultural emblem of Australian suburbia. Artists and filmmakers often depicted it in scenes of domestic bliss, evoking nostalgia for simpler times. Its presence in backyards fostered community interactions, as neighbors chatted over fences while hanging laundry.

During the 1950s housing boom, the device represented modernity and efficiency. Women, who primarily handled laundry, appreciated its labor-saving design amid rising workforce participation. It also promoted eco-friendly drying, reducing reliance on electric appliances.

In popular culture, the hoist appeared in literature and art as a metaphor for Australian ingenuity. The 2000 Sydney Olympics featured giant replicas in the closing ceremony, celebrating national icons. A 2019 commemorative coin further cemented its status.

Challenges arose with urbanization, as smaller yards favored compact alternatives. Yet, the hoist’s adaptability ensured its survival. Today, it evokes fond memories for older generations while introducing sustainability to new ones.

The Modern Legacy and Adaptations

As of 2026, the Hills Hoist brand endures under AMES Australasia, with models blending tradition and modernity. Production largely occurs in China, but Australian standards guide quality. Variants include portable and folding options for urban dwellers.

Environmental awareness has boosted its appeal, as air-drying cuts energy use. Innovations like UV-resistant lines enhance longevity. The device’s 81-year history continues to inspire, with limited-edition heritage models honoring its roots.

Current Market Prices and Deals

Contemporary Hills Hoist models vary in price based on size and features. Entry-level rotary hoists start around AUD 200 for basic fixed-head versions suitable for small families. Mid-range options, with 47-meter line space, typically cost between AUD 300 and 400, offering galvanized steel construction for durability.

Premium heritage models, evoking the original design, range from AUD 500 to 700, including installation kits. Deals often appear through retailers like Bunnings or online stores, with seasonal discounts up to 20 percent during summer promotions. Bundles with ground sockets or covers can save an additional 10-15 percent.

Pros and Cons of the Hills Hoist

• Durability: Built with galvanized steel, it withstands harsh weather for decades. This makes it ideal for Australian conditions, reducing replacement needs. Users report models lasting over 30 years with minimal maintenance.
• Space Efficiency: The rotary design maximizes hanging area in compact yards. It allows for large loads without sprawling lines. This feature suits suburban homes where space is at a premium.
• Eco-Friendly: Promotes natural drying, saving electricity compared to dryers. It lowers household carbon footprints. In sunny climates, clothes dry quickly without energy costs.
• Adjustability: Height-winding mechanism eases use for all ages. It prevents stretching or bending excessively. This accessibility benefits elderly or mobility-impaired individuals.
• Installation Complexity: Requires concrete footing, which can be labor-intensive. Professional setup adds costs. DIY attempts may lead to instability if not done correctly.
• Weather Dependency: Inconsistent in rainy regions, potentially prolonging drying times. Pollen or dust can soil clothes outdoors. Indoor alternatives may be preferred in urban polluted areas.
• Maintenance Needs: Gears may require occasional lubrication. Rust can occur if not properly cared for. Regular checks ensure longevity but demand time.

Pro Tips

• Choose the Right Size: Assess your household’s laundry volume before purchase. Larger families benefit from 50-meter plus models. Measure your yard to ensure rotation clearance.
• Optimal Placement: Install in a sunny, windy spot away from trees. This maximizes drying efficiency. Avoid low-lying areas prone to flooding.
• Maintenance Routine: Lubricate gears annually with silicone spray. Clean lines periodically to prevent staining. Cover during off-seasons to protect from elements.
• Load Balancing: Distribute weight evenly to prevent tipping. Hang heavier items centrally. This ensures smooth rotation and longevity.
• Upgrades: Add line tensioners for sagging prevention. Consider UV-protected lines for colorfastness. These enhancements extend usability.
• Safety Checks: Secure children from swinging on arms. Inspect for loose bolts regularly. Proper use avoids accidents.

Frequently Asked Questions

• What makes the Hills Hoist different from other clotheslines? Its rotary and height-adjustable design allows for efficient drying in limited spaces. Unlike fixed lines, it spins to catch breezes. This innovation sets it apart in functionality.
• Is installation difficult? Basic models require digging a hole and concreting. Professionals handle it in hours. DIY kits include instructions for capable users.
• How long do they last? With proper care, 20-40 years is common. Galvanized materials resist rust. Regular maintenance extends this further.
• Are parts replaceable? Yes, lines, arms, and gears are available from retailers. Original manufacturers supply compatible components. This keeps older models operational.
• Can it handle king-sized sheets? Absolutely, with ample line space. Raise to full height for large items. It accommodates bulky loads effectively.
• What’s the warranty? Typically 10-20 years on frames. Covers manufacturing defects. Check retailer for specifics.
• Is it still made in Australia? Most production is overseas now. Some heritage lines are local. Quality adheres to Australian standards.

Conclusion

The journey of the Hills Hoist from a backyard prototype to a national icon encapsulates Australian resourcefulness and adaptability. Lance Hill’s vision, built on earlier innovations, revolutionized laundry practices and embedded itself in cultural memory. Through expansions, challenges, and modern evolutions, it remains a testament to enduring design. As sustainability gains prominence, its eco-friendly approach ensures relevance. Ultimately, this humble invention reflects the spirit of innovation that defines Australia’s history.