Two years of research and development in co-operation with local Hobart companies, Retlas Bronze and Skeels & Perkins, resulted in the first prototype Muir winches in 1973. As production started he moved immediately to promote them both in Australia and at marine trade shows throughout South-East Asia. ln 1977 Muir Engineering, although retaining a Battery Point location (Muir Marine and General Engineering), expanded to build a 4,000 square metre factory at Kingston which now markets anchor winches and windlasses nationally and worldwide with the products passing the most stringent world standards - American Bureau of Shipping, Lloyds and Det Norske veritas. The company has also expanded into the production of Fleming self-steering gear and heaters. Throughout the busy years, John has been backed by his wife, Wendy, who has run the office side of the operation.
Long-time friend, Russell Dufield (left) and Jock Muir photographed in 1991 at the Royal Yacht Club of Tasmania. A Sydney businessman, Russell, was one of the "driving forces" behind Jock's decision for the publication of his memoirs. He was also the one to advise John Muir to specialise in one area of marine products, which they did with great success. He owned Patsy and nowadays sails Trevassa, which he entered in the 1990 Sydney to Hobart but was forced to retire. Trevassa successfully completed four other Sydney to Hobart races.