Hessian sack needles were essential for agricultural and industrial use, particularly in the 19th and early 20th centuries. Used for stitching and mending burlap, jute, or canvas sacks that carried goods such as grain, potatoes, flour, and coal. The curved needles were ideal for sewing thick fabric without needing to turn the sack, while the straight ones were used for general stitching. These tools were common in farming communities, warehouses, and shipping industries, where sacks needed frequent repair.A set of four long, rusted metal needles, designed for sewing or repairing hessian (burlap) sacks. Each needle varies slightly in shape and curvature, with some having a straight form, while others are curved or hooked at the tip.sewing, hessian bags, mending, sacks, farm equipment

This could be a hand-forged cross-pin or locking mechanism, used in woodworking, metalworking, or early mechanical applications. It might have been used for securing joints, locking wheels, or reinforcing wooden structures. Such iron tools were commonly made in blacksmith shops during the 19th and early 20th centuries for agricultural, construction, or transport-related applications. Alternatively, it may have functioned as a rudimentary fastening peg, used in early wagon building, fence construction, or machinery assembly.A hand-forged iron tool consisting of two intersecting metal rods forming a cross shape. The rods appear hammered and roughly shaped, indicating blacksmith craftsmanship. The surface is heavily rusted and corroded, suggesting significant age and exposure to elements. The ends of the rods are uneven, with one slightly flattened, possibly for wedging or securing purposes.blacksmith, metalwork, woodwork, farm equipment, commercial item

Branding irons were essential tools in livestock management, particularly in cattle and sheep farming, to identify ownership and prevent theft. This manual iron would have been heated in an open flame and then applied to the animal’s hide, leaving a permanent mark. The presence of rust and wear suggests this branding iron was used extensively on a working farm. These tools have been used for centuries, especially in Australia, the United States, and Europe, where cattle ranching played a major role in agricultural economies.This is a long-handled metal branding iron, traditionally used for marking livestock with a permanent identification symbol. The iron consists of a straight, sturdy metal shaft with a looped handle at one end, designed for gripping or hanging. The opposite end features a flat, engraved or raised branding head with a distinct shape or pattern, which would have been heated and pressed against the animal's hide to leave a lasting impression. The entire tool shows signs of age, rust, and wear, indicating extensive past use.Mc & Cobranding iron, farm equipment, sheep, cattle, livestock

This is a twine spool holder, commonly used in agriculture, general stores, and packaging. The spring mechanism ensures smooth and controlled unwinding of twine. It was likely mounted on a workbench or used in bagging and tying machines. The brand "EMU BRAND" suggests it was a trusted name in farm and trade supplies. Manufactured by E.W. BANFIELD LTD, a well-known Tasmanian company that produced farming and trapping accessories.A metal device featuring a coiled spring, a bent guiding arm, and a rectangular metal plate with advertising text. The plate is painted yellow with red and black lettering. The spring is tightly coiled to hold and dispense twine smoothly. The bent wire arm extends outward, likely to guide the twine and maintain tension.The metal plate prominently displays the following text: "EMU BRAND" "STOP BAND" "THE BEST IN THE FIELD" "SAFE, SPEEDY, AND POSITIVE" Manufactured by E.W. BANFIELD LTD, 148-152 ELIZABETH ST, HOBART, TAS." EMU BRAND The Best in the Land - This Holder Takes Either 1lb or 2lb Spools of EMU BRAND SHOP TWINE - Screw Spool on Firmlyemu brand, twine, sewing, household item, mending, farm equipment

This tool is most likely a pair of blacksmith’s tongs or farrier’s tongs, used for handling hot iron, horseshoes, or metal pieces in a forge. The curved jaws suggest it may have been used for gripping horseshoes, rounded bars, or small cylindrical iron objects. Blacksmiths and farriers used tongs like these to maneuver and shape heated metal while working at the anvil. Tools of this design date back to 19th and early 20th centuries, though similar designs are still in use today in traditional blacksmithing.A long-handled iron tool with scissor-like pivoting arms. The ends feature curved gripping jaws, which appear to be specifically shaped for holding cylindrical or rounded objects. The tool is entirely metal, with round-section handles that extend in a straight line before joining at the central pivot point. The metal shows signs of rust and oxidation, indicating age and prior heavy use.tongs, blacksmith, foundry, factory, farm equipment, commercial equipment

Colour photograph. Buildings and machinery in the Field Station/Orchardorchard, field station, machinery, greenhouses, farm equipment

The spoke shave is a traditional woodworking tool dating back centuries, commonly used by wheelwrights, carpenters, and furniture makers. It was designed to refine and shape rounded or curved surfaces, particularly in the crafting of wooden wagon wheels, tool handles, and furniture legs. The tool in the image has a well-worn appearance, suggesting significant use over time. The provenance note indicates that this specific tool was donated by Keith SUDHOLZ and was connected to Changi Camp, Toowoomba, possibly referencing an Australian military or post-war connection. This adds historical value to the artifact. Timber Wheel Spoke Shaver donated by Keith SUDHOLZ of Natimuk from 'Changbool' property owned by Errol OFFICER family of Toolondo (c 1950s)The tool is a vintage wooden spoke shave, a hand tool used for shaping and smoothing curved surfaces, especially wooden spokes, chair legs, and other rounded objects. The spoke shave consists of a curved wooden handle with an inset metal blade held in place by a clamp mechanism. The handles extend outward on either side, allowing the user to grip and pull the tool along the wood surface. A handwritten tag attached to the tool reads: "Spoke Shave, Donated by Keith SUDHOLZ of Natimuk from Changi Camp, Toowoomba."timber, wheel, spoke, horse, tool, farm equipment, commercial equipment, shaver

Wooden hand planes like this one were widely used by carpenters and woodworkers before the introduction of modern power tools. This design dates back centuries, with similar tools being used in cabinetmaking, joinery, and general woodworking. The plane works by guiding the blade along a wooden surface, removing thin shavings to achieve a smooth, even finish. Over time, these tools were replaced by metal-bodied planes, but wooden planes remained popular due to their lightweight construction and ease of use.The item is a vintage wooden hand plane, a traditional woodworking tool used for shaping and smoothing wood surfaces. It has a rectangular wooden body with a slightly curved top and a centrally positioned metal blade (iron) held in place by a wooden wedge. The wedge is inserted at an angle to secure the blade, which protrudes slightly from the base to shave off thin layers of wood when pushed forward.timber plane, tool, farm equipment, commercial equipment

Brace drills were widely used in woodworking, carpentry, and early construction before the advent of electric power tools. They allowed for precise drilling of holes in wood and other materials. The larger brace would have been used for heavier-duty work, while the smaller one might have been used for finer, more controlled drilling. These tools were common in workshops and homes throughout the 19th and early 20th centuries.The image shows two antique hand tools, both of which are brace drills (also known as bit braces or hand braces). These were used for manual drilling before the widespread use of electric drills. The tool labeled "115.1" (bottom of the image) is a larger, more robust brace drill with a curved, cast metal body and a wooden grip at the top. It has a chuck at the front for holding drill bits. The tool labeled "115.2" (top of the image) is a smaller, more delicate brace drill, also with a curved metal body, but it appears more simplistic in design, with a squared chuck end.bit brace, tool, farm equipment, commercial equipment, drill

Livestock bells were commonly used in the 19th and early 20th centuries on farms, cattle stations, and rural homesteads to track and identify animals. The bell's distinctive sound allowed farmers to locate their livestock over long distances in open pastures, forests, or hilly terrain. This specific bell appears to be a heavier-duty variety, possibly used for cows or larger animals rather than small livestock. The rusted chain or strap loop suggests it was fastened with a leather collar or metal ring.The item is an old, rusted metal livestock bell, likely used for cattle, sheep, or goats. It consists of: A cone-shaped metal body, with a slightly flared bottom opening, allowing sound to resonate effectively. A small metal loop and a rusted chain or strap attachment at the top, which would have been used to secure the bell around an animal's neck. The surface is heavily rusted and weathered, indicating prolonged exposure to outdoor elements.bell, cow, bullock, farm equipment, livestock

Cross-peen hammers (left hammer) were often used by blacksmiths and carpenters to shape metal, drive nails, or make delicate adjustments. Double-faced hammers (right hammer) were commonly used for construction, blacksmithing, and metalwork, particularly in shaping iron and steel. These tools would have been essential in early workshops, farms, and industrial settings, dating back to the 19th and early 20th centuries.Left Hammer: Features a cross-peen (or cross-pein) head, which has a flat striking face on one side and a wedge-shaped peen perpendicular to the handle on the other side. The wooden handle is well-worn, darkened, and slightly curved. The metal head has signs of rust and patina, indicative of age and extensive use. Likely used for blacksmithing, woodworking, or metalworking, as the wedge-shaped end helps with shaping metal or driving nails in tight spaces. Right Hammer: Has a double-faced head, with both ends being flat and identical in size. The wooden handle is straight and aged, showing signs of prolonged use. The metal head is solid, with a thick profile, suggesting it was used for heavy-duty striking, such as in blacksmithing, stonework, or general metalworking. This hammer type is commonly referred to as a sledgehammer or machinist’s hammer.hammer, farm equipment, commercial equipment, blacksmith, workshop, garage, construction

The nails and spikes in this collection represent various historical periods and construction techniques, including: Hand-forged nails, possibly dating from the 19th or early 20th century. Machine-cut nails, which became more common in the late 19th century. Railroad spikes, often used for securing rails to wooden sleepers. Automotive fasteners, which may have been used in vehicle manufacturing or repair. Such a collection is valuable for historical research, museum exhibits, or preservation studies to illustrate how nail-making technology evolved.A mounted collection of various nails, spikes, and bolts, displayed on a wooden board. The left side features numerous small nails, some hand-forged, arranged in an upright position. The right side contains larger nails and spikes, including railroad spikes, hand-made nails, and automotive fasteners.The board includes handwritten labels, which appear to describe the nails and spikes: "NAILS 100 & 50 years old removed from …” (text partially obscured) "HAND MADE NAILS" "AUTOMOTIVE NAILS" Other potential details about their origin.nails, farm equipment, collecting

Blow torches like this one were widely used in the late 19th and early 20th centuries before modern gas torches and propane burners became standard. Operated by pressurizing liquid fuel (kerosene or gasoline), which was vaporized and ignited to create a high-temperature flame. Commonly used for: Soldering and brazing in plumbing. Heating and softening metal for shaping. Thawing frozen pipes in cold climates. Industrial applications requiring direct flame.This is a vintage kerosene or gasoline blow torch, commonly used in soldering, metalworking, and industrial applications. The torch has a cylindrical metal fuel tank, which appears to be made of brass or steel, with signs of oxidation and patina. Attached to the top of the tank is a pump handle, used to pressurize the fuel inside the tank. The burner assembly extends from the top of the fuel tank and includes a fuel control valve (a round, serrated metal knob). The burner nozzle is housed inside a silver-coloured metal casing, likely made of cast iron or aluminium, which serves as a heat shield. A wrapped cloth insulation is present around part of the handle, likely to protect the user from heat. It could be from a well-known maker such as Turner, Clayton & Lambert, Bladon, or Sievert, which were among the leading manufacturers of blow torches in the early to mid-20th century.blow torch, welding, farm equipment, commercial equipment

These items were essential for loading and maintaining black powder firearms in the 18th to early 20th century. Gunpowder flasks ensured safe handling and storage of explosive powder. Gun loaders and bullet moulds helped reload ammunition, making them indispensable for hunters, soldiers, and marksmen.1. Gunpowder Flask (Metal Canister with Spout): Physical Description: A conical-shaped metal container with a small pouring spout and a curved carrying handle. This gunpowder flask was used for storing and dispensing black powder for firearms. The spout allowed for precise measurement before loading. 2. Gun Loader or Bullet Loader (Double-Barrelled Tool with Wooden Handle): Physical Description: A metal tool with two cylindrical barrels, a wooden handle, and a serrated curved section. This is likely a vintage gun loader, bullet mould, or powder charge tool. The cylindrical barrels could be for holding and pressing charges. The serrated curved edge may have been used for cutting wads or removing spent casings. 3. Glass Jar Containing Black Powder (Gunpowder?): Physical Description: A cylindrical glass jar with a yellow metal lid, containing a black granular or powdery substance. This may contain black powder, used in historical muzzle-loading firearms, cannons, or fireworks.gun, powder, ammunition, shooting, farm equipment

These types of jugs were common in homes and workshops from the late 19th to mid-20th century, before electric lighting became widespread. Farmers and rural families relied on kerosene jugs for lighting and heating, making them essential household items. This artifact provides insight into historical domestic life and fuel usage before modern conveniences.A cylindrical metal jug with a wide, open top and a distinctive spout for controlled pouring. The spout is sharply angled, likely designed to minimize spillage when transferring kerosene or other liquids. The jug features a sturdy, curved handle, which appears to be made from the same metal material and is riveted to the body. The surface is aged and rusted, indicating significant use and exposure to the elements.kerosene, tin, can, fuel, farm equipment

Such tools were essential in early 20th-century agriculture and trade, when grain quality was determined manually before modern testing equipment. Likely used in rural farming communities and grain storage warehouses. Similar tools have been in use since the 19th century, making them key artifacts in agricultural history.A long, tapered metal tool with a sharp, pointed end designed for piercing through grain bags. The handle is thicker with a flat or rounded top, allowing for easy gripping. The shaft shows signs of rust and wear, indicating age and extensive use.wheat, grain, measuring, hessian bag, hessian sack, farm equipment, commercial equipment

Branding irons have been used for centuries in farming and ranching communities. Essential for identifying cattle in open grazing lands, preventing theft, and ensuring proper ownership records.A long metal rod with a rectangular handle on one end and a branding head on the other. The branding head consists of a small, metal plate with raised characters or symbols, used to create an imprint when heated. The iron is coated in a light-coloured material, possibly to prevent rusting. It has a "H" Letter at the bottom.branding iron, horses, cattle, live stock, farm equipment, fire

Used for trimming and shaping horse hooves to maintain proper foot health. The curved cutting blade allows for precise removal of overgrown or damaged hoof material. Essential for farriers and horse owners to ensure hoof balance, comfort, and prevention of lameness. Also used in preparing hooves for horseshoes.A rusted handmade metal tool with a curved cutting blade on one end. The handle is long and slightly tapered, with a hole near the end, possibly for hanging or securing a grip. The blade has a sharp, angled edge, designed for cutting through tough hoof material.hoof, cutting tool, horse, farm equipment, horse equipment

Manually operated sprayers like this were essential tools before modern electric or battery-powered sprayers became widespread. They provided an affordable and effective method for small-scale farming and domestic gardening. The durability of brass and copper components made these sprayers long-lasting and repairable, contrasting with modern plastic alternatives. Used primarily as a garden or agricultural sprayer, often for applying: Pesticides Fungicides Liquid fertilizers Cleaning agents The user pumps the handle to pressurize the liquid in the reservoir, then releases it through the nozzle as a fine mist or jet spray. Such sprayers were commonly used in gardens, orchards, and farms during the early to mid-20th century.A hand-operated spray pump with a copper or brass reservoir and a long cylindrical brass pump handle. The handle is fitted with a rounded green grip, likely made of wood or Bakelite, designed for comfortable manual operation. The reservoir (tank) is rounded and made of metal, showing signs of oxidation and wear, indicative of age and past use. A small nozzle at the top allows for the release of liquid, possibly fitted with an adjustable spray tip.insect, pest, spray, pump, household item, farm equipment

Horseshoes protect horse hooves from wear, particularly for working horses on hard or rough surfaces. The variety suggests different uses, including: Light riding horses (smaller, rounded shoes) Workhorses or farm animals (thicker, reinforced shoes) Specialized or orthopedic shoes (some with unique bends or missing sections) Given the wear and corrosion, these may have been dug up from an old blacksmith site or farm.A collection of various horseshoes, differing in size, shape, and condition. Some horseshoes are intact, while others appear worn, broken, or partially damaged. The horseshoes have multiple nail holes, suggesting frequent reuse or replacements. Varied curvatures and widths indicate they were used for different horse breeds or work types. Rust and corrosion are present, showing signs of age and exposure to the elements.horseshoes, horses, farm equipment, commercial equipment, horse equipment

Stirrups are essential equestrian equipment, providing the rider with support, balance, and control. The top brass stirrup might have been used for a military, ceremonial, or high-end saddle. Dating: The designs suggest late 19th to early 20th century usage.The image features two metal stirrups, each with a distinct design and condition. Top stirrup: Appears to be brass or bronze, with a worn greenish patina due to oxidation. Features a wide base for foot placement. Two vertical slots on either side, likely for securing the stirrup leather. Overall, well-preserved with some surface wear.stirrup, horse equipment, farm equipment

Stirrups are essential equestrian equipment, providing the rider with support, balance, and control. The bottom iron stirrup likely belonged to a working or farm horse. Dating: The designs suggest late 19th to early 20th century usage.Bottom Stirrup - Made of iron or steel, showing heavy rust and corrosion. Traditional D-shaped frame, typical of older or more utilitarian saddlery. Flat, broad footrest with some pitting and degradation due to oxidation. Appears more heavily used or exposed to elements over time.stirrup, farm equipment, horse equipment

Likely used in the early to mid-20th century for pouring petrol from large fuel tins into vehicle tanks or smaller containers. The design suggests it was a utilitarian tool for garages, farms, or early motoring enthusiasts. The screw-thread and frame indicate it was meant to be secured to a canister to prevent spills and ensure steady pouring.A vintage metal petrol pourer with a spout designed for controlled fuel pouring. The main body consists of a curved metal pipe leading to a nozzle. A screw-threaded metal fitting is attached near the spout, likely for securing it to a fuel can. A metal plate with a pointed tip is part of the assembly, possibly for piercing or securing into a container. A rectangular wire frame extends from the main body, likely for stability or support while pouring.petrol, gas, kerosene, fuel, can, container, farm equipment, motoring, vehicles, tractors

Barbed wire was widely used for fencing in agriculture, livestock control, and military fortifications since the late 19th century. Razor wire is a more modern development, primarily used in security applications, such as prisons, military sites, and restricted areas. The rusted condition suggests long-term outdoor exposure, possibly recovered from an old fence or security barrier.The image shows two different types of barbed wire. One piece is coiled and features razor wire, which has sharp-edged metal strips evenly spaced along its length. The other pieces appear to be traditional barbed wire, with twisted metal strands and sharp protruding barbs at regular intervals. The wires are aged, showing signs of rust and weathering.wire, fencing, gates, farm equipment, livestock

This pump appears to be an antique hand-operated suction pump, possibly used for extracting liquids such as oil, water, or grease. It may have been used in mechanical applications, agricultural machinery maintenance, or even domestic tasks such as transferring kerosene or lubricants. These types of pumps were commonly used in the early to mid-20th century before the advent of electric pumps.The object is a cylindrical metal hand pump with a wooden handle at one end and a threaded nozzle or cap at the opposite end. The wooden handle is turned and slightly tapered, featuring decorative rings near its base. The metal cylinder is long and tubular, segmented with slight ridges, indicating where it may have been assembled or reinforced. The end of the cylinder appears to have a screw-type fitting, possibly for refilling or attaching additional components.pump, farm equipment

Handmade bolt threaders were commonly used in blacksmithing and metalworking to manually create or repair threads on bolts. The rustic appearance and wear suggest it may have been locally crafted and used in a workshop or industrial setting. Given the label and tagging, this item was likely part of an inventoried collection, possibly from an old workshop or historical toolset.The object is a long, narrow, and tapered metal tool with a central thickened section, appearing to be a handmade bolt threader. It has a dark patina, likely due to age and oxidation. The ends are tapered to a point, and the central section seems to have a slight ridge or raised profile. bolt threader, blacksmith, metalwork, farm equipment, commercial equipment

The sickle has been used for thousands of years, dating back to ancient civilizations for grain harvesting and crop gathering. It was widely used in Australian and European agriculture before mechanized farming tools became common. The rust and patina suggest this sickle may be an early 20th-century or even 19th-century example. It was a key tool in subsistence farming, hay cutting, and manual harvesting, making it a valuable artifact of rural history. Likely from the EMMERSON Estate at Clear Lake.This is a vintage sickle, a traditional agricultural hand tool used for harvesting crops, cutting grass, or clearing vegetation. The sickle consists of two main parts: A curved metal blade with a sharp inner edge, designed for efficient cutting with a swinging motion. The blade appears rusted and aged, indicating significant historical use. A wooden handle, which is cylindrical and smooth, showing signs of wear and darkening from age and handling. The handle is attached to the blade with a metal tang inserted into the wood, ensuring stability.farm equipment, harvesting, crops, cutting tool, emmerson

These leather forming dyes were used in traditional leathercraft to shape leather into rounded or contoured forms. Common applications include the forming of pouches, holsters, watch straps, belts, and decorative motifs. Wet leather would be pressed over or into the dies using the domed tools, creating consistent shapes for repeat production or fine detailing. This type of toolset was especially useful in saddlery, harness-making, and artisanal leather goods manufacturing, and may date from the early to mid-20th century. The craftsmanship and material suggest they were intended for long-term use in a workshop setting. Used for three generations back in WEBB family. Colin WEBB from Grass Flat's Great Grandfather's. Used for making flowers and decorate leatherwork.A set of four cylindrical leather forming dies accompanied by five domed shaping tools. The dies are robust, upright forms with flared openings at the top and rounded bases, crafted to receive and shape wet leather into concave or domed forms. The accompanying tools are smooth, tapered rods ending in spherical or bulbous tips of varying sizes, designed for pressing and shaping the leather from the inside or outside of the die. The tools and dies are made of the same dark, polished material—most likely wood or hard resin—showing signs of long-term use such as surface wear and patina.webb, leather, farm equipment

This folding ruler is a promotional item produced by the H.V. McKay Sunshine Harvester Works, Australia’s leading agricultural machinery manufacturer in the early 20th century. The ruler advertises the company’s global success, particularly their major export of harvesters to large-scale farms in South America. Such rulers were distributed to farmers, machinery agents, and agricultural shows as a practical advertising tool and are now collectible items representing Australia’s industrial and rural heritage. The ruler was used in a farm in Natimuk. The decorated side served as advertising for the McKay harvesting machines used in large farms in La Pampa, a fertile agricultural land in Argentina. In Australian Dictionary of Biography: "'Sunshine' harvesters were dispatched to South Africa, and in 1901 Sam and three Ballarat experts went to the Argentine where they demonstrated 'La Australiana' on a variety of crops so effectively that they soon threatened the trade in North American reaper-binders and headers."A folding wooden ruler, measuring one foot (12 inches) in length when fully extended. The ruler is hinged at the centre and printed with both imperial measurements and advertising text and images on the reverse. One side is marked with inch measurements and the branding "H.V. McKay Sunshine Harvester Works". The reverse features printed promotional material: "H.V. McKay’s 'Sunshine' Harvesters harvest the grain on the largest wheat farm in the world." It refers to a wheat farm in Argentina, operated by the Compañía Bunge y Born, where fifty Sunshine harvesters were used to farm over 100,000 acres. A small photograph on the back shows the row of Sunshine harvesters at work. The object highlights both the scale of the farm and the international reach of Australian agricultural machinery.Front: Inch measurements, hinge join at centre Reverse: “H.V. McKay’s ‘Sunshine’ Harvesters harvest the grain on the largest wheat farm in the world.” “The Estancia of the Compañia Beni Bunge (Sociedad Argentina), Cuchara, Argentina, South America.” “Fifty 'Sunshine' Harvesters, 65 H.P. each, were purchased.” Printed photograph of machines at work.natimuk, australia, la pampa, agentina, farming, agriculture, sunshine, mckay, harvesters, measuring, farm equipment

The Myer Emporium has had a history of over 100 years, and was first started by Sidney Myer trading his wares from door to door.Catalogue representing the store's latest goods to the purchaser, ranging from fashion, house furniture, garden and small farm equipment, kitchen ware, books, typewriters, childrens wear, shoes, men's wear, etc.The Myer Emporium Limited, Spring and Summer Catalogue, 1952books, catalogues