McKay Smithy

In this farm Smithy, originally located at Drummartin, Victoria (VIC), Hugh Victor McKay produced his first harvesting machine which in one operation could strip the heads, thresh, winnow and bag off the grain.

The first commercial McKay stripper harvesters were sold in 1885 and lead to the development of the Sunshine harvesters. These machines made a significant contribution to the development of Australian agriculture.

The plaque and the Smithy were originally located in the Rural Gallery in the Museum of Victoria. It was reported that in 1991 this exhibition was dismantled and the Smithy and plaque were removed for safe keeping.

HV McKay's Smithy
Source: Museum Victoria

Inside HV McKay's Smithy
Source: Museum Victoria

Hugh Victor McKay - the man behind the Sunshine Harvester
Source: Museum Victoria

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Engineering Heritage Recognition Program

Marker Type	Heritage Engineering Marker (HEM)
Award Date	29 October 1985
Heritage Significance	In this farm Smithy, Hugh Victor McKay produced his first harvesting machine which lead to the development of the Sunshine harvesters. These machines made a significant contribution to the development of Australian agriculture.
Nomination Document	Available here.
Ceremony Booklet Ceremony Report	Not Available.
Plaque/Interpretation Panel	Not Available.