Article by Tallis Miles courtesy of the Weekly Times.

Australia’s richest person has acquired the historic 120-year-old Driza-Bone company, producer of iconic oilskin jackets and coats.

Gina Rinehart’s S. Kidman & Co has acquired an iconic Aussie clothing brand, snapping up the 120-year-old Driza-Bone company.

Originating from the expression “dry as a bone”, the clothing company dates back to the 1890s when British mariner Emilius Le Roy was en route to New Zealand.

During Mr Le Roy’s journey he envisioned repurposing the ship’s sails into durable, full-length waterproof coats treated with linseed oil to ensure their nonflammability and resilience against harsh Australian conditions.

Today, Driza-Bone is known for its iconic oilskin products, including coats, jackets and vests for men, women, children and pets, most of which have been made in Australia for more than 120 years.

Rural clothing business RB Sellers, founded by Richard Sellars-Jones, merged with the Propel Group’s Driza-Bone in 2017, before the merged group was placed on the market in 2018.

“Driza-Bone’s oilskin coats are iconic. My interest in Australian fashion started when I was quite young as my mother designed and made clothes for herself and me too over my early years,” she said.

“We are honoured to carry forward Driza-Bone’s pioneering legacy while supporting its growth. Our family’s and company’s long association with the outback seems to be a natural fit.”

S. Kidman & Co CEO Adam Giles said they planned to push Driza-Bone overseas as part of the new acquisition, the price of which remains undisclosed.

“We will bolster Driza-Bone’s expansion strategies, enabling the brand to venture into new international markets while staying true to its Australian heritage and commitment to superior quality,” Mr Giles said.

S. Kidman & Co’s purchase is the latest in a major portfolio restructure, which has included the sale of 10 northern Australian cattle stations.