Queanbeyan block to change hands for the first time in 66 years

The year is 1952, Queen Elizabeth has just ascended to the throne, Singin’ in the Rain is the hit movie of the year, and the Siegmund family – a year after migrating from Germany – purchased a block of land in Queanbeyan for £100.

That block of land at 35 Ross Road would remain with the family for the next 66 years, and during those years it was both the Siegmund family home and much-loved business.

The latter became a core part of the Queanbeyan community for close to half a century. The business, Siegmund Engineering – a mechanical repairs shop – was set up and operated by youngest son Helmut for 47 years.

In 1970, Helmut’s father built the workshop with plans to start his own mechanical repairs business but unfortunately died before he could fulfil his dream.

Helmut’s wife, Marie says, “It was a shame his father never got to see his labours fulfilled.

“Helmut, out of respect to his dad started the business instead. It was something he wanted to do and his mother was thrilled Helmut was carrying on his father’s legacy.

“During the time he has been in business, Helmut has proven himself to be an honest, hardworking man who has made a lot of friends in the industry and who has a very loyal customer base.”

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This weekend, the 1549-square-metre site will be going under the hammer.

Helmut has already bid farewell to Siegmund Engineering, with the workshop closing last month. The home is tenanted.

When asked how Helmut felt about selling, Marie says it hasn’t quite hit him yet.

“He’s going to miss it, he has been there a very long time and it was his family home for a very long time,” she says.

Now that Helmut has retired, Marie says the couple will be making the most out of their “last hurrah”, with plans to travel to Europe and South Africa in August but not before Helmut takes advantage of a few sleep-ins.

The auction of 35 Ross Road will take place on site this Saturday at 11.30am.