Q&A Adam Giles
Adam Giles
53, CEO Hancock Agriculture and S. Kidman & Co, lives between a large family farm in Western Victoria and Bulimba in Brisbane
Tell us about Sir Sidney Kidman, who this brand is named after.
Sir Sidney Kidman is a legendary Australian pioneer from the early days of our nation’s agricultural story. He was known as the “Cattle King”. Aged just 13, Kidman left home with five shillings (equivalent to $5 today) and a one-eyed horse named Cyclops. By understanding the seasons, temperament and potential of the land, he built the largest private landholding in Australia and one of the world’s largest pastoral empires. His path later crossed with another pioneering Australian, James Nicholas. Together they expanded Cobb & Co, the coaching company that connected remote parts of the country. That legacy lives on through Nicholas’ granddaughter, Gina Rinehart. As executive chairman, she brings the same values: hard work, an understanding of the land and a deep commitment to Australia’s future. It’s great having that link between Sir Sidney and Gina. That’s why we wanted to start the Kidman brand.
What makes Kidman clothing unique?
Kidman is Australian by design and brings to life the legacy and essence of Sir Sidney’s story. Kidman boots, hats and clothing are made from the finest Australian products including Australian cotton and Australian leather, including some from our very own properties which I think is very cool. We are working on a plan to use our own cotton grown out in the Darling Downs around Dalby and Wee Waa in NSW to be the cotton in our clothing to create the truest traceability and a real paddock to the product model, just with legacy from Gina back to Sir Sidney. Legacy through products that can really be for the bush or the boardroom.
What is your favourite item of Kidman clothing?
Our boots are renowned for their comfort and support from the first step. We’re consistently told Kidman boots have a better fit and provide more comfort than those of our more expensive competitors. That’s our patented Trampoline Core system, a system that no other boot has. But the most iconic Kidman items are our handmade custom hats. Having a personalised hat crafted for you is a unique experience. Our expert hatmakers take you through the entire process with care and attention to detail, leaving customers with an iconically Australian piece of headwear, perfectly fitted in their own style.
Why are you passionate about this brand?
Every item carries a piece of Australian heritage. Leading a company born from the legacy of one of Australia’s great early pioneers is an honour as much as it is a responsibility to ensure every product does justice to that proud heritage. This challenge in a competitive market motivates me and my wonderful team every day. We are really focused on traceability to Australian sourced products including our cotton and leather. That’s what Australians want, putting Australia first and that is what Kidman is doing.
What are your best-selling items?
Consistently it’s our men’s and women’s boot ranges. For style, comfort and durability, more Aussies are learning there’s only one name you need: Kidman. There’s a reason they say Kidman is “just a better boot”.
Who is this brand targeted at?
Anybody who values distinct, eye-catching style made with unbeatable Australian quality at the best possible price. Kidman – unlike some competitors – keeps prices as affordable as possible while never sacrificing comfort, style or quality, and we know this is especially important for many Aussies during these tough economic times.
Tell us about the new Brisbane store opening this month?
We’re opening with a bang. Grand opening on Tuesday, August 25, from 9am at 175 Eagle St in the city. Everyone is welcome to meet the team, grab a great deal and enjoy S. Kidman & Co’s premium quality beef pies and sausage rolls. That evening we’ll launch our new Mulga Collection at the Brisbane Fashion Festival with Commonwealth Games superstar swimmer Shayna Jack. On Friday August 28, our headline event is the Kidman Boot Trade-In. Bring in your old leather boots and receive 50 per cent off a brand new pair of Kidman boots, no questions asked. Plus games, vouchers, live music, delicious beef products from S. Kidman & Co, and the chance to create your own personalised Kidman hat with our in-house experts.
What can customers expect at this flagship store?
We’re excited to share the Kidman story with Queenslanders from all walks of life. Our new Brisbane store is more than another clothing shop – it’s an experience carefully designed so customers leave looking their best from head to toe with products built to withstand the Australian lifestyle.
