Nonmus Bros’ Sawmill
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The Nonmus Legacy
Sawmilling at Stanmore
The Nonmus family were among the earliest settlers in the Woodford region, arriving in the 1880s and becoming key figures in the local timber industry. From portable steam engines in the early 1900s to a large stationary mill at Stanmore in the 1920s, their contribution to the region’s forestry history was both innovative and enduring. With strong community ties, resilience through wartime and economic hardship, and a pioneering spirit, the Nonmus legacy lives on through stories, photos, and a lasting impact on the landscape.
From Local Historian
Mr Ron Trim
Sawmilling at Stanmore from 1910 to unknown.
In about 1891 Alfred Nonmus selected land in the Woodford area on Postman’s Track. In 1911 his son Hector followed, selecting land that adjoined his father’s land. Another son, Gilbert, selected 280 acres in the north east part of Bellthorpe.
The Nonmus brothers Gilbert and Frank had a portable steam engine which they used for milling timber in the area from around 1910. In approximately 1921 they erected a stationary sawmill at Stanmore near Running Creek. They employed Alf Draper to haul logs to the mill and to cart the sawn timber away.
Nonmus family in front of their home.
Photo courtesy of the Queensland State Library.
Early Roots in the Region
The Nonmus family settled in Woodford (then Yatesville) around 1880, with Alfred Nonmus later moving the family to Stanmore in 1891. Over time, sons Hector and Gilbert also selected land in the district, laying the groundwork for future sawmilling operations.
Milling Begins with Steam and Grit
The Nonmus brothers, Gilbert and Frank, began milling timber around 1910 using a portable steam engine. Their early efforts marked the beginning of what would become a significant sawmilling operation in the region.
Nonmus Sawmill on Nonmus Road.
Photo courtesy of the Queensland State Library
Chronicle & North Coast Advertiser 27th August 1920
Stanmore Mill Takes Shape
Around 1921, the brothers established a stationary sawmill at Stanmore near Running Creek. They employed local hauler Alf Draper to manage log and timber transport, contributing to a thriving local timber trade.
Beyond Stanmore:
A Broader Impact
Gilbert Nonmus also operated sawmills at Buderim and Maroochydore. Despite being wounded during military service, he continued in the trade, even providing housing and extended credit during the Depression. He sold the Buderim mill in 1946 and retired, leaving behind a remarkable industry legacy.
Nonmus Sawmill at Stanmore.
Photo courtesy of the Queensland State Library.
The Nonmus family at work.
Through the Lens of History
Explore rare images of the Nonmus family at work and home, from milling scenes at Stanmore to portraits of the family who shaped this chapter of Woodford’s forestry past. These photos offer a glimpse into the hard work and resilience of early sawmilling life.
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We’re on the lookout for local memories, photos, and memorabilia that tell the stories of our community.
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& Every 3rd Sunday
Address
109 Archer Street, Woodford, Queensland, Australia,
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Woodford Country Markets
are held on the 3rd Sunday of
each month from 7am to noon.