Ruwolt Iron foundry open in 1902 at Wangaratta, making windmills. In 1914 Charles Ruwolt Pty Ltd transferred to Victoria Street, Richmond, Melbourne. By 1938 it was one of the largest engineering companies in Australia. During World War II the company reorganized to manufacture armaments. The company, employing 2000 workers, became No 1 annex of munitions supply, manufacturing light artillery and mortars. Bought in 1948 by Vickers Ltd (UK) and subsequently operated as Vickers Ruwolt.