Around 1953, Mr J.D. Potts opened his ‘Radio & Electrical Store’ in Nuriootpa, selling radios, record players, refrigerators, washing machines, Hoover ‘suction cleaners’ and floor polishers.
A significant transformation occurred in the electrical appliance industry with the introduction of television to South Australia in 1959.
John Potts was advertising this exciting new technology at his Nuriootpa store, with operating television sets for the public to view. ‘See and hear TV at Potts’ Radio Store’ was an enticing offer, with ‘Plenty of comfortable chairs available’. Potts’ store was even reported open until 10:30pm for public television viewing and purchases.
In 1956, Claude Rasmus and his wife Vera opened an electrical business on the corner of Stockwell Road and Angaston-Nuriootpa Road, incorporating a Golden Fleece Service Station (now Barossa Roadhouse).
The business prospered and expanded, establishing outlets at Angaston, Tanunda, and Nuriootpa. In 1964, the company joined the Retravision electrical retailer group. Claude Rasmus Pty Ltd not only offered retail services but also provided repairs of refrigeration, washing machines and televisions.
The business employed up to 27 locals, with Brian Scheer managing the TV & Radio Service Department and Murray Woidt overseeing the Contracting Department. Both men joined the company soon after its inception and eventually went on to establish their own electrical businesses.
In 1969, a newspaper lift-out promoted the opening of a new Claude Rasmus shop in Nuriootpa. The opening specials included many iconic Australian brands that no longer exist, while the concept of offering a reduced retail price with a ‘trade-in’ option applied to many of the appliances.
Reflecting on the Barossa’s century-long electrical journey, the pioneering spirit of our early electricians paved the way toward today’s astounding innovations.