W.F Joins the Business

As the Arnold family business continued to grow, it welcomed a new member to its ranks. After leaving school, the second son, W.F (Billy) Arnold, joined the business at the young age of 15. Eager to contribute, Billy quickly immersed himself in the day-to-day operations.

Young W.F (Billy) Arnold

One of Billy’s key responsibilities was processing orders from stores in the surrounding towns of Holbrook, Lockhart, and Henty. His diligence and attention to detail ensured that these stores received their supplies promptly and accurately. Remarkably, several of Billy’s initialed postcard orders have survived to this day, serving as cherished mementos of his early contributions to the family business.

During this period, Arnold’s made a significant technological advancement that would further solidify their standing in the community. The business acquired a telephone, with the number Albury 64. This acquisition was a remarkable milestone, making Arnold’s one of the few businesses in Australia to have had a continuous phone service for well over a century. The telephone not only facilitated smoother communication with suppliers and customers but also underscored the Arnold family's commitment to embracing modern innovations to enhance their business operations.

J.G Arnold, always forward-thinking, also secured a separate line for his house on Macauley Street with the number 65. This number was later repurposed for the shop, ensuring that the business could maintain seamless communication both at home and in the store.

Billy’s entry into the family business marked the continuation of a tradition of hard work, innovation, and dedication. His efforts, combined with the technological advancements of the time, helped to propel Arnold’s into a new era of growth and efficiency. The addition of the telephone service was a testament to the family’s foresight and adaptability, qualities that would continue to drive their success for generations to come.