 Although he is known as the first successful sugar-producer in Queensland, Whish's estate lost its worth and he resigned from the Legislative Council in March 1872, sold his machinery and became a surveyor of roads.By September 1873, Whish was bankrupt with a debt of £5598, although he was promoted to inspector of road surveys for the southern division in 1875 and for the colony in 1880.In 1889 Whish took his leave by setting out for England.