Fifer's

Sydney Fifer was a Returned World War I Soldier from Moree in New South Wales with significant drapery experience. He purchased James Richey's drapery establishment, known as Commercial House, in Brisbane Street in early August 1919. The business then became Fifer's, purveyors of Manchester, drapery, fancy wear, ladies' & children's wear and millinery. It was located opposite St Paul's Church between Hunter's Corner and the North Star Hotel.  In 1919 there were 13 staff members. Renovations to the shop at this time were carried out by A. Foote Ltd from designs by George Brockwell Gill. 

In September 1921 Fifer's needed more space and expanded their shop into adjoining premises, formerly the location of the Olympia Cafe. This became their new men's mercery and clothing department.

Fifer's continued to thrive and by 1924 had 46 employees, having increased their turnover 6-fold in five years. By this time Fifer's premises was spread over three adjoining shops. At this time, Fifer's serviced country areas using a covered motor wagon loaded with merchandise. 

After only six years, in March 1925 Bayards of South Brisbane acquired Fifer's leasehold, goodwill, fittings and stock and continued to trade from the Brisbane Street location. Well known Ipswich agent W. B. Parkinson negotiated the sale.