while still a partner with thompson, felix clewett also had other interests. after july 1890 he served as a member of the legislative council of queensland. in 1909, following the introduction of steam trams in rockhampton, which opened up new areas for housing, felix clewett was amongst the first to develop residential estates in the allenstown vicinity. after clewett's death in february 1913, thompson purchased the quay street store. in december 1922 he was elected to the australian senate. he served until june 1932.