The story of Southland Filtration begins in post‑war Australia.

In 1948, a 22‑year‑old Russell Cox set out on a career that would quietly shape a multi‑generation family business. Trained in metallurgy, Russell had a deep understanding of how metals behaved — how iron, steel, aluminium, nickel, and copper could be extracted, refined, and strengthened. It was technical knowledge, but more importantly, it taught him precision, discipline, and respect for materials.
Those values would stay with him for life.

Russell’s first exposure to water treatment came at the Launceston City Council’s Distillery Creek Water Treatment Plant. At the time, water quality was assessed through manual chemical testing. Rain events meant constant adjustments, careful monitoring, and hands‑on problem solving. His background in metallurgy proved invaluable, and his interest in detailed, practical solutions began to grow. Without knowing it, Russell was laying the foundation for what would become a defining part of the family business.

In 1952, Russell moved to Hobart to work with British company Murex, specialists in welding equipment and consumables. His role focused on the development and documentation of welding electrodes and fluxes, particularly for hard‑facing applications. Over time, his expertise led him into investigating major infrastructure failures — from hydroelectric pipelines for the Hydro Electric Commission to the West Gate Bridge disaster in 1970, where metal fatigue contributed to the loss of 35 lives.

These experiences reinforced Russell’s belief in quality workmanship and accountability. Getting it right mattered.

The early 1970s marked a turning point. When Murex Australia was acquired by CIG, and later absorbed by BOC, the research division moved to Melbourne. Russell chose a different path. Rather than relocate, he stayed in Tasmania and set up his own business. The transition from laboratory work to running a business wasn’t easy, but his commitment to quality never wavered.

By 1975, those early efforts took shape under the name Southland Industries. Growth followed steadily through the next decade. The business expanded into sheet metal manufacturing, industrial ventilation equipment, and architectural cladding. During this time, Russell’s three sons — Terry, Tim, and James — joined the business, bringing new energy and ideas.

At the heart of it all was Russell’s belief that quality work built lasting relationships. He didn’t just construct products; he built trust. Customers relied on him to solve problems, and word spread through the construction industry, hardware wholesalers, and retailers alike.

A new chapter began when Russell’s son James became increasingly interested in how technology could be used to solve common water problems. Alongside his brother Tim, he identified opportunities to apply filtration technologies to emerging challenges within the construction and trade sectors.
This shift marked the early beginnings of what would later become a dedicated filtration arm of the business — one that aligned naturally with their father’s commitment to quality workmanship and long‑term customer relationships.

The business began addressing specific filtration challenges as demand grew across the construction industry and trade markets. James and Tim forged strong relationships with European suppliers, including a longstanding partnership with backwash filter manufacturer Judo. As demand for filtration solutions grew, the business began supporting customers with specific water challenges — from assisting the Lark family in their early whisky experiments in their kitchen, to building a wider customer network interstate.

By the mid‑1990s, the filtration side of the business had proven its strength. Its potential was recognised, and it was separated into a standalone division under the Southland Industries umbrella. In 2019, that evolution reached a milestone with the establishment of a separate entity: Southland Filtration Pty Ltd.

Today, Southland Filtration manufactures and supplies specialised products under its own brands, including SKAN, Healthshield, DEFENDER, and MediaPRO.

The next generation is now part of the story. James and Tim’s children work within the business, bringing fresh capability, energy, and ideas. While the business continues to evolve, its foundations remain unchanged — a commitment to tailored solutions, high standards of workmanship, and enduring customer relationships.

It’s a legacy built on craft, care, and family — and it’s still being written.