Our History
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The founder of our firm, Mr James Fredrick Lockwood, began his career in Geelong in 1900, working for HE Richardson, an Auctioneer, Accountant, Arbitrator and Valuator. On moving to Echuca in 1908, Mr Lockwood commenced employment with McKenzie & Co, one of Echuca’s leading Stock and Station Agents. In 1922 he left to set himself up as the town’s first freelance accountant. On the closure of their office in Echuca, Murray Shipping Co appointed Mr Lockwood as their agent. Employing one typist and one clerk, he was set to go. Very quickly his accountancy practice attracted a client base of 10 families (many of these families have remained clients of Lockwood Partners to this day). Mr Lockwood gradually built up his business through his involvement in the local community and contracts he made. When Mr Lockwood’s clerk left him in 1925 to start a poultry farm, he found a replacement in 18 year old Joe Charters. Joe also pursued a high profile in the community, working for various clubs and committees. In addition, he studied accountancy in his spare time. Such was his dedication, that he even took his study books on his honeymoon! |
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Joe qualified as an accountant in 1938 at the age of 31 and that same year was rewarded when Mr Lockwood made him a partner. The firm name was changed in recognition of this to F Lockwood & Associates.
Following successful admission to the Institute of Chartered Accountants in Australia, the practice name was changed to Lockwood Partners in 1983.
Staff numbers were continuing to expand whilst current office space was at its extremities. The decision was made to develop a new office complex in Percy Street, Echuca which was completed in April 1989.
In December 2006 Lockwood Partners relocated office premises to 486 High Street, Echuca. The state of the art facilities will allow us to serve the community well into the future.
Lockwood Partners are the most pre-eminent accounting practice in the region. Building on the solid blocks placed for us by our founders, we want to ensure that we maintain a pro-active and prestigious image in the local community.