Claude Fraser collection

Claude Archibald Fraser was born in Gympie in 1899. In 1918, age 18, he enlisted in the First World War. He served in the 9th Infantry Battalion, then the Graves Registration Detachment, rejoining the 9th Battalion before his return to Australia. In 1921 he opened a small grocery store named the 'Signal Cash Store' in The Valley, Brisbane. In 1923, he opened his first Brisbane Cash and Carry in Petrie Bight, [Queen Street], Brisbane. This was the first cash and carry business in Australia. In 1925, Claude married Marjorie 'Gladys' Leitch (1903-). In 1926, Claude brought Mr Park (manager of Brabant and Co.) in as partner. He was very successful and business expanded with 12 Brisbane Cash and Carry stores by 1939. Further expansion was delayed due to the Second World War. In 1939 Claude enlisted in and became part of the 61st Battalion (Queensland Cameron Highlanders). He was stationed in Townsville for 6 months from early 1942 until his discharge in August 1942. He then became an active member of the Military Forces of the Commonwealth. He later returned his focus to Brisbane Cash and Carry with 15 Brisbane Cash and Carry stores by the time the business became a public company in 1950. Business continued to expand to a total of 32 stores in 1958 when the business was sold to Woolworths. Claude and Gladys had 4 children Robin, Mary, Lilias and Donald. Claude died in 1988.