C. J. Vogler & Son

Established in 1877, C J Vogler & Son is a family owned and operated hobby store located in Brisbane Street, Ipswich.

The business has evolved over the past 144 years but was initially established in Bell Street, near Bell Arcade by Karl Vogler. By 1896 Karl was repairing surgical instruments and repairing sewing machines and bikes, sharpening knives. For some years before and by 1901, the business was better known as a gun and locksmiths located in East Street. Stove repairs were also performed. 

In October 1901 after his father Karl died, Charles Julius Vogler  (known as Julius, who lived in Ellenborough Street) moved the store to the corner of Brisbane and Ellenborough Streets to a site recently vacated by A. Johnson, tailor.

From there, in 1915 Vogler's moved across Brisbane Street. In 1920 they moved to their current location at the Top of Town. Gregory and Val Vogler now own the building.

When Charles Julius died in 1946 his son Arthur Norman Vogler continued the business with the help of his wife May.

By 1987 mending and repair-work were no longer part of Vogler's service, however key-cutting and hobbies were.  

Five generations of the Vogler family have operated this perennial business in the heart of Ipswich. They are reputed to be Australia's longest running hobby store selling remote control items, diecast models, slotcar sets, model trains and their accessories.