The leather satchel with printed information and equipment including instruction manuals, report sheets, rubber stamps and books was issued to Barry Ryan when he started working as a guard for Victorian Railways in Wodonga in 1972. It was in use until he became a locomotive train driver in 1987, when guards no longer worked on the trains.The leather satchel has local significance as it was used by a guard on the Victorian Railways in Wodonga and the railway was an important factor in the development of Wodonga. It also has state significance as part of the Victorian railways equipment for train guards, and is representative given that it's a complete kit with the green signal flag, lamp and the instruction manuals, report sheets, rubber stamps and books in the satchel.Brown leather Victorian Railways guard's satchel, with a leather handle and shoulder strap. There is a rolled up green signal flag attached behind the handle on the top and a dark blue metal lamp attached to the front of the satchel. The lamp has a green filter in front of the bulb, so it would emit green light. The raised letters "V.R." are located on the front and top surfaces of the blue metal lamp, and the number "2749" is engraved on the back surface. The name "B. RYAN" is engraved in the front surface of the lamp. The number "2544' is stamped into a brass plate on the front of the satchel. There is a semi-circular red painted iron disk hinged to the front of leather satchel with a cut out area in the centre to show the number on the brass plate. The lamp is attached to lower rim of the semi-circular red painted iron disk. Inside the leather satchel there are instruction manuals, report sheets, rubber stamps and books relating to the work as a guard on the Victorian railways, as the satchel was used by the donor Barry Ryan when he started working as a guard for Victorian Railways in Wodonga in 1972. "V.R." in raised letters on the front and top surfaces of the metal torch. "B. RYAN" engraved in the front surface of the torch. "2749" engraved into the back surface of the metal torch. "2544" stamped into the surface of the brass plate on the front of the leather satchel. victorian railways, v.r., victorian trains, trains, train guards, leather satchel, satchel, wodonga

These types of metal and glass railway signalling lamps were used for communication, safety and lighting by train guards, shunters and signalmen, as well as station staff in the late 1880s to the early 1900s. They were hand operated and used fuel such as kerosene.The three railway signalling lamps have local significance as a set donated by a resident of Wodonga who worked for the Victorian Railways, as well as national significance as examples of the communication and safety equipment used by the railways in Australia in the late 19th century and early 20th century.Set of three painted black metal and glass railway signal lamps used for various purposes during train journeys. The largest signal lamp has circular blue and red glass filters and a turning mechanism on the top under the handle. "A y" on a small copper plate on one side of the largest signal lamp - Lamp 1.railway lamps, signalling lamp, train signal lamps

Metal and glass railway signalling lamps were used for communication, safety and lighting by train guards, shunters and signalmen, as well as station staff in the late 1880s to the early 1900s. They were hand operated and used fuel such as kerosene.The railway signal lamp has local significance as part of a set of three lamps donated by a resident of Wodonga who worked for the Victorian Railways. It also has national significance as an example of communication and safety equipment used by the railways in Australia in the late 19th century and early 20th century.Exterior casing of a black painted metal railway signal lamp with circular blue and red glass filters and a turning mechanism on the top under a circular handle. Small copper plate with the letters "A y" stamped on it, on one side of the lamp. "A y"railway lamps, signalling lamp, train signal lamps

Metal and glass railway signalling lamps were used for communication, safety and lighting by train guards, shunters and signalmen, as well as station staff in the late 1880s to the early 1900s. They were hand operated and used fuel such as kerosene.The railway signal lamp has local significance as part of a set of three lamps donated by a resident of Wodonga who worked for the Victorian Railways. It also has national significance as an example of communication and safety equipment used by the railways in Australia in the late 19th century and early 20th century.Black painted metal signal lamp with a circular metal cover over a clear glass disk at the front and an elongated oval shaped handle at the back. The circular metal cover has a vertical slit in it. There is an inscription on the top of the lamp with the date 1917 and the company name "Eli Griffiths & Sons, Birmingham"."ELI GRIFFITHS & SONS / 1917 / BIRMINGHAM"railway lamps, signalling lamp, train signal lamps, railway equipment

These types of metal and glass railway signal lamps were used for communication, safety and lighting by train guards, shunters and signalmen, as well as station staff in the late 1880s to the early 1900s. They were hand operated and used fuel such as kerosene.The railway signal lamp has local significance as part of a set of three lamps donated by a resident of Wodonga who worked for the Victorian Railways. It also has national significance as an example of communication and safety equipment used by the railways in Australia in the late 19th century and early 20th century.Black painted metal signal lamp with a clear glass lens secured at the front and one thin elongated oval shaped handle showing at the back. The metal appears to be tin plated iron under the black paint layer. There is an oval plate with an embossed inscription on the proper left side of the lamp that is partly covered by the door at the front which holds the clear glass lens. The inscription includes the date 1901."...NARIPPINGILLE STOVE / CO LTD 1901 / PATENT...S & / ...NUFACTURERS / RMINGHAM" on an oval shaped plate on the proper left side, which is partly covered by the door with the clear glass lens.railways wodonga, victorian railways

The blue work coveralls would have been worn as protective clothing for Victorian Railways employees working on train maintenance and workshop tasks in the later part of the 20th century. The style of the exterior pockets on the front suggests a date of c. 1970s-1980s.The Victorian Railways coveralls have local significant as part of the Wodonga Historical Society's donations from Wodonga residents. They also have significance from a social history perspective due to the VR logo on the front and the relative rarity of protective work clothing for Victorian Railways employees.Blue Victorian Railways work coveralls, with the VR logo above the proper left pocket on the front. The blue fabric is worn and stained from use."VR" logo above the proper left pocket on the front of the coveralls. "JONES / workwear / SIZE 87 R - 5" on the side of the proper left pocket on the front of the coveralls.victorian railways, v.r., victorian railways coveralls, victorian railways prtective work clothing

Rabone & Sons had its origins in Birmingham, as rule and tool makers. The business was continued by John Rabone and his (John's) grandson, Eric Rabone. It worked under the name of John Rabone & Sons c1784-1953, becoming a public company in 1948. Control of the business remained with the Rabone family until 1962. In 1963 the company merged with a toolmaker from Sheffield to become Rabone Chesterman. The name E. M. Lock has been carved into the leather on one side. Edith May Lock was the mother of Arthur Lock who served in the 2/23 RD Australian Infantry Battalion, known as "Albury's Own".This item is part of a collection of items owned by Arthur Lock, a member of the 2/23rd Battalion, an all-volunteer Second Australian Imperial Force which served as part of the garrison during the Siege of Tobruk, then at El Alamein, New Guinea and Borneo. It has particular local significance as the battalion was know as "Albury's Own" because a large majority of the battalion's initial intake of volunteers came from the Albury–Wodonga region.A retractable wire measuring tape with leather casing and brass centre and winding handle. The tape is 66 feet in length. The manufacture's name, John Rabone & Sons, is inscribed around the centre circle as well as the Number 401 and 66FTAround centre circle "JOHN RABONE & SONS/BIRMINGHAM ENGLAND". In the centre "NO401 66FT" On opposite side around centre circle "RABONE'S METALLIC WIRED TAPE". Engraved into the surface "E.M.Lock"world war 11, john rabone and sons, wired measuring tape

This iron was used by women to press the clothes from the mid 19th century. Coal embers were put inside, heating the base of the iron. Small bellows could be used to fire up the embers in order to keep the iron hot. This item is significant as it represents the appliances used by women from the mid 19th century until the advent of electricity.This charcoal iron is made of cast iron. It has a hinged lid so that embers can be put inside as the source of heat. The lid has a curved funnel and a wooden handle. The funnel kept the smoke away from the clothing. Bellows would be used to blow air into the iron and keep the coals burning. It has a wooden handle and the lever used to open the lid is also made from wood. There is a hole with a swivel cover at the back of the iron to check the coals. "S" on the swivel cover.domestic appliances, household items, women's work

The First Australian Exhibition of Women's Work was held at the Exhibition Building, Melbourne, from 23 October to 30 November 1907. It was opened by Lady Northcote (the wife of Australia’s Governor General) and Pattie Deakin (wife of the Prime Minister), who also ran a model creche during the exhibition. The five week exhibition showcased the work of women musicians, artists and craftswomen with over 16,000 exhibits in all fields of artistic endeavour. It was attended by approximately 250,000 people. Exhibits were divided into Classes, including Fine Arts; Applied Arts; Photography; Plain Needlework; Cookery, Preserves and Laundry Work; Horticulture; and Medical and Nursing. This item was owned by Mrs. Mary Burrowes, aunt of Mrs. Jean Raper.This item is from Raper Collection donated to the Wodonga Historical Society by Mrs. Jean Raper. A small ruby glass and crystal jug which was produced as a souvenir of the Australian Exhibition of Women's Work held at the Exhibition Building in Melbourne in 1907. It has been inscribed in gold coloured paint. "Mary Women's Exhibition 1907"vase, glassware, decorative items

The First Australian Exhibition of Women's Work was held at the Exhibition Building, Melbourne, from 23 October to 30 November 1907. It was opened by Lady Northcote (the wife of Australia’s Governor General) and Pattie Deakin (wife of the Prime Minister), who also ran a model creche during the exhibition. The five week exhibition showcased the work of women musicians, artists and craftswomen with over 16,000 exhibits in all fields of artistic endeavour. It was attended by approximately 250,000 people. Exhibits were divided into Classes, including Fine Arts; Applied Arts; Photography; Plain Needlework; Cookery, Preserves and Laundry Work; Horticulture; and Medical and Nursing. This item was owned by Mrs. Alice Yardy nee Dinsmore, grandmother of Mrs. Jean Raper.This item is from Raper Collection donated to the Wodonga Historical Society by Mrs. Jean Raper. A small green glass vase with gilt edge which was produced as a souvenir of the Australian Exhibition of Women's Work held at the Exhibition Building in Melbourne in 1907. It has been inscribed in gold lettering. "Alice Women's Exhibition 1907"vase, glassware, decorative items

John Henry Perry, known as "Jack" arrived in Wodonga in May 1929 with his wife and children. He took over the licence of the Junction Hotel, now known as "The Stump", Bandiana from Mr. Bill Carter. Prior to this he had worked in 3 Australian states as a shearer. He held the licence until 1941 when he passed it over to his son John ("Jack"). After 2 years of retirement, John Snr. purchased the freehold of the Carriers Arms Hotel in Wodonga where he held the licence until the mid 1950s. By 1952, aged 69, he also had the freehold of the Railway Hotel as well as the Commercial Hotel in Mooroopna, Victoria. John Perry served some time as a councillor on the Wodonga Council. In later life he also became a member of the Wodonga Bowls Club. John's descendants owned Wodonga’s Blazing Stump Hotel for 80 years until it was sold in 2008. They then developed the nearby Wodonga Homemaker Centre and invested in the development of other ventures including the Huon Hill Hotel and Valentines Bakeries. John Henry Perry died in Wodonga on 21 June 1980, aged 96 years old.This hotel was owned and continuously operated by John Henry Perry and his descendants for 80 years. It continues to be a popular social venue today.A black and white photo of the J. H. Perry Junction Hotel in Wodonga. The image has been mounted on board.Above doorway in image from left to right: VICTORIA BITTER: PERRY'S/ JUNCTION HOTEL: FOSTERS LAGER"the stump hotel wodonga, john henry perry, hotels wodonga

Allan "Strad" Jones was born in Stawell but lived in Wodonga from the age of two years old. He worked with several companies before establishing Strad Jones Smash Repairs in Mulqueeney Street, Wodonga. He was a courageous football player and played for the Wodonga "Bulldogs" senior team from the age of 17 years. Allan initially played as full forward, then the centre and wing positions. He suffered a serious injury playing football whilst completing National Service at Puckapunyal and was hospitalised for 5 months. Mr. Jones returned to play for Wodonga and also coached Kergunyah and junior football teams in the 1960s. He also managed the Wodonga Little Athletics Club in the 1970s. Mr. Jones was an active member of the Wodonga Historical Society until his death in 2002. He worked not only to collect historical items but to ensure they were properly preserved and displayed. Two of his interests came together when he researched the history of Australian Rules football in the Ovens & Murray League and surrounding districts from its formative years through the 1940s. This publication was titled "Football - Glory Days Gone By". Mr. Jones died in Albury on 13 July 2002.This image is dedicated to a respected member of the Wodonga community and the Wodonga Historical Society.A framed photo of Allan Jones (1935 - 2002)Beneath the image: "Allan Stradling Jones/(Strad)/1935 - 2002)/ A valued member and tireless worker for the Wodonga Historical Society"allan "strad" jones, wodonga community members, wodonga football club

Alex Reid was born in 1891 and began work on the Victorian Railways in 1907. He enlisted with the A.I.F in 1915. He served in Egypt and the Suez Canal but was discharged on medical grounds having contracted typhoid and dysentery. In 1917 he re-enlisted in the Anzac Light Horse. On his return to England, he survived the torpedoing of HMAT Ballarat and then served in France. On discharge from the army, Alex returned to the Victorian Railways and transferred to Wodonga. He was employed driving the “Spirit of Progress” and remained as “Driver in Charge” until his retirement in 1956. Alex was awarded the MBE in 1951 and the OBE in 1963 for his tireless efforts on behalf of Returned Servicemen and their families. He continued to work as a welfare officer for the RSL. As well as continued service to the RSL, Alex served as a member of the Wodonga High School advisory committee for 35 years and sat on the bench in the Wodonga Court for 15 years in his capacity as Justice of the Peace. Alexander Frederick Reid O.B.E died in Wodonga on 7 January 1979.This image represents a farewell work function for an outstanding member of the Wodonga community.A large black and white framed photo of a group of men attending a send off function in Wodonga in 1956.Alex Reid send off 1955 Back Row L to R Stan Warnock, F. Fulford, W. McEachern, S. Egan, P. Doolan, K. Moore, A. Smyth, M. Seymour, W. McAnanly, M. Flanagan, L. Gregson, L. Snow, H. Fraser, R. Cooper, W. Squires Second Back Row L to R K. Williams, W. Toomey, K. Coleman, F. Thistleton, K. Ziebell, P. Gough (S.M), C. Hughes, F. Dempsey, C. Craig, W. Baldock, J. Robinson, W. Odgers, C. Whitehead, G. Taylor, J. Muir, P. McDonald, W. Riley, A. Thompson, K. Robinson, B. Strachan, W. Walsh, T. Willoughby Seated second Row L to R J. Schmidt, A. Wagner, J. O’Donnell, J. Dawe, F. Leitch, J. Anderson, T. Brown, A. Elvish, F. Boadle, A. Reid, J. Draper (Police). N. Davey, F. Caine (P), A. Padgett, L. Burroughs (P), B. Saul, F. Weatherall, H. Binder, D. Sutton, T. Cosgriff, C. Clancy, ? , M. Nowadice, J. Karugan Front Row Seated L to R D. Shannon, S. Cuper, L. Cheesley. C. Williams, L. Madgeric, V. Snow. ?, A. Beach, L. Cross, C. McNamara, ? , Don Shepard.alexander frederick reid, eminent wodonga residents, ww1 veterans wodonga, hmat ballarat

Bethanga was established as a result of the discovery of gold. Gold was first reported in the Bethanga area in 1852. Before 1876 gold mining in the Bethanga district occurred to the north of the town and was known as the 'Talgarno diggings'. Reports of alluvial gold date back to 1852. Early gold fields were worked at Ruby Creek, Gold Creek and Jarvis Creek. The opening of the Bethanga goldfields began with the discovery of a gold-bearing quartz reef on New Year’s Day 1876. The 'Gift' mine site is located southeast of Kurrajong Gap lookout to the west of Bethanga township. The Great Eastern Copper Smelting Works was opened in 1878. Due to the nature of the gold-bearing quartz reef, the gold was difficult to extract, and the discovery of copper led to a change in focus. It was not until the early 1890s that an efficient technique for extracting the gold from the ore was discovered, and once again gold became the focus, with copper as a by-product. Bethanga was removed from the official list of goldfields in 1912, however some mining activity has taken place since.This image reflects an important time in the development of Bethanga and Northeast Victoria.A large mounted and framed image of horse teams and their owners hauling a large boiler to the gold mine near Bethanga, Victoria. On label beneath image: "North-eastern "Gold Days"/ Combined teams hauling a boiler to Bethanga Mines, 1900. Teamsters - Mr. G. Pearce, W. Chapple, G, Bannon." Donated by Ron Saunders and Barbara Cadman"bethanga, gold mining northeast victoria, gold mining bethanga, bethanga history

A book of 72 pages including plates, maps and illustrations. The cover is blue with white text and an illustration of a sailing sloop. It includes a bibliography.The full title of this publication is "The first tourist: commemorating the bicentenary of Matthew Flinders' voyage in the sloop Norfolk to Bribie Island and Moreton Bay, 1799-1999". It was sponsored by Pacific Harbour, Bribie Island with the assistance of the Regional Arts Development Fund. Although Flinders documented his voyage to Australia in his major work "Voyage to Terra Australia", little mention is made of his voyage to Bribie Island. However this publication claims Matthew Flinders as the first official tourist to Bribie Island. It was published to celebrate the bicentenary of his voyage.matthew flinders, flinders bicentenary, australia - exploration and settlement

These beads were made by Fred Walker, then of Wodonga, during the Depression. He created them to make additional income when work was scarce. They were sold for 3 shillings per necklace. The snakes he caught were boiled to separate the flesh from the bones. After saturating the market in Wodonga, Fred and a friend took to the road. At one stage they travelled with live snakes which had been de-fanged and kept them alive with frogs until more necklaces were needed. He travelled much of the east coast of Australia until the economic conditions improved, when he settled in Melbourne. After the death of his wife in the mid 1970s, Fred took to the road again, resurrecting the making of snake jewellery as he travelled the countryside. These beads were purchased by Mrs. Lilian Black of Kergunyah, Victoria when Fred Walker visited her family farm in the 1930s.These beads demonstrate enterprising activities carried out by Australian people in order to survive during the Great Depression of the 1930s.A necklace made from black beads and treated snake bones. There are 5 coloured beads in the middle of the necklace.snake jewellery, the great depression, survival during the depression

The Fred Rochow Railways Collection incorporates photos related to the operation of the Wodonga Railway Station including different types of trains and railways staff C. 1930 – 1990. It was donated to the Wodonga Historical Society by Fred Rochow, a railwayman who spent many years based in Wodonga. He joined the Victorian Railways on 17th June l947 and retired in 1988. For some time, he was a member of the Australian Federated Union of Locomotive Enginemen and served a term as a member of the Trades Hall Council. He had an extensive knowledge of the struggles that took place to achieve better conditions for railway workers. Fred worked for many years as a fireman and then worked his way up the ranks to driver, experiencing many changes from the days of steam locomotives through to diesel trains, locomotives and even the modern XPT train. He worked throughout Victoria at different stages of his career, with his final working years focused on the northeast of Victoria and the Albury to Melbourne line. After his retirement, Fred continued to share his love of steam miniature trains with the community.This collection has local and statewide significance as it captures images of trains, locomotives and personnel who operated the railway services in Wodonga and throughout Northeast Victoria. The railways played a critical role in opening up Victoria and connecting Australia for trade, business, social communication and transport.Newspaper Cutting, Undated, Source Unknown- Photo of George Padgett George Padgett was born into a railway family in Numurkah, Victoria on 3 February 1890. He began working for the Victorian Railways as a junior clerk in Maryborough and gained his Driver’s ticket in 1914 at North Melbourne. He was based at Ararat for some time, then transferred to Dimboola in 1926. In November 1937 when the “Spirit of Progress” made its first run from Melbourne to Albury, he was moved to Wodonga. From the train's first return trip he took over the driving. During his career, he made an average of 92 round trips a year. George made his last trip on 4 February 1955 prior to his retirement. George died in Wodonga on 19 February 1967. Below the image "You see them reunited - while Spirit of Progress driver George Padgett looks on happily."railways wodonga, fred rochow, wodonga railwaymen, spirit of progress, george padgett

The Fred Rochow Railways Collection incorporates photos related to the operation of the Wodonga Railway Station including different types of trains and railways staff C. 1930 – 1990. It was donated to the Wodonga Historical Society by Fred Rochow, a railwayman who spent many years based in Wodonga. He joined the Victorian Railways on 17th June l947 and retired in 1988. For some time, he was a member of the Australian Federated Union of Locomotive Enginemen and served a term as a member of the Trades Hall Council. He had an extensive knowledge of the struggles that took place to achieve better conditions for railway workers. Fred worked for many years as a fireman and then worked his way up the ranks to driver, experiencing many changes from the days of steam locomotives through to diesel trains, locomotives and even the modern XPT train. He worked throughout Victoria at different stages of his career, with his final working years focused on the northeast of Victoria and the Albury to Melbourne line. After his retirement, Fred continued to share his love of steam miniature trains with the community.This collection has local and statewide significance as it captures images of trains, locomotives and personnel who operated the railway services in Wodonga and throughout Northeast Victoria. The railways played a critical role in opening up Victoria and connecting Australia for trade, business, social communication and transport.Locomotive 752 Crew at Albury C. 1955 Left to right: Roy Wagner, Fitter Harry Alderson, Driver Bill Odgers, Fireman Lou Merjeric, Fireman H. Aitherson (Train Examiner?) On front of Locomotive "752"railways wodonga, fred rochow, wodonga railwaymen, s class locomotive

The Fred Rochow Railways Collection incorporates photos related to the operation of the Wodonga Railway Station including different types of trains and railways staff C. 1930 – 1990. It was donated to the Wodonga Historical Society by Fred Rochow, a railwayman who spent many years based in Wodonga. He joined the Victorian Railways on 17th June l947 and retired in 1988. For some time, he was a member of the Australian Federated Union of Locomotive Enginemen and served a term as a member of the Trades Hall Council. He had an extensive knowledge of the struggles that took place to achieve better conditions for railway workers. Fred worked for many years as a fireman and then worked his way up the ranks to driver, experiencing many changes from the days of steam locomotives through to diesel trains, locomotives and even the modern XPT train. He worked throughout Victoria at different stages of his career, with his final working years focused on the northeast of Victoria and the Albury to Melbourne line. After his retirement, Fred continued to share his love of steam miniature trains with the community. Shelley Railway Station - Shelley was once Victoria's highest railway station, located 781 metres above sea level. The Shelley Railway Station was opened in 1916 and closed in 1979. The railway was used early in its life to transport farmer’s livestock from the Upper Murray to Wodonga. From the 1950s the railway was used heavily to transport equipment and machinery from Wodonga to the Upper Murray to help build the Snowy Mountains Hydro Electric Scheme. The Snowy Hydro Scheme was completed in 1974 and after several years of low level use, the railway was closed. Some remnants of the Shelley Station passenger platform can still be seen today, along with some information boards. The Shelley Railway Station now forms part of the High Country Rail Trail.This collection has local and statewide significance as it captures images of trains, locomotives and personnel who operated the railway services in Wodonga and throughout Northeast Victoria. The railways played a critical role in opening up Victoria and connecting Australia for trade, business, social communication and transport.Left to Right: Fireman Bert Cadman, Driver Wally Riley, Guard Hugh Fraser. Locomotive S300 - the ‘Matthew Flinders’ The S class diesel locomotives were built by Clyde Engineering in 1957 for the Victorian Railways. Designed as premier express passenger diesels, they assumed the ‘S class’ title from a fleet of steam locomotives. They were also given names of famous Australians. The S300 took the name ‘Matthew Flinders’. In 1962, S300 was converted from the Victorian broad gauge of 5’3” to the New South Wales gauge of 4’8.5”, in order to operate the new Southern Aurora between Sydney & Melbourne. As the locomotive grew older it was removed from these duties and was sold to Chicago Freight Car Leasing Australia (CFCLA) in 2004. It is now owned by a private owner and is on loan to the Canberra Railway Museum.railways wodonga, fred rochow, wodonga railwaymen, s class locomotive

The Fred Rochow Railways Collection incorporates photos related to the operation of the Wodonga Railway Station including different types of trains and railways staff C. 1930 – 1990. It was donated to the Wodonga Historical Society by Fred Rochow, a railwayman who spent many years based in Wodonga. He joined the Victorian Railways on 17th June l947 and retired in 1988. For some time, he was a member of the Australian Federated Union of Locomotive Enginemen and served a term as a member of the Trades Hall Council. He had an extensive knowledge of the struggles that took place to achieve better conditions for railway workers. Fred worked for many years as a fireman and then worked his way up the ranks to driver, experiencing many changes from the days of steam locomotives through to diesel trains, locomotives and even the modern XPT train. He worked throughout Victoria at different stages of his career, with his final working years focused on the northeast of Victoria and the Albury to Melbourne line. After his retirement, Fred continued to share his love of steam miniature trains with the community.This collection has local and statewide significance as it captures images of trains, locomotives and personnel who operated the railway services in Wodonga and throughout Northeast Victoria. The railways played a critical role in opening up Victoria and connecting Australia for trade, business, social communication and transport.Railway Commissioner Harold Clapp and Mrs. Clapp ready to leave Albury on the "Spirit of Progress" in 1938. The Driver is George Lynch Snr. and the Fireman is E. Finley. Sir Harold Winthrop Clapp (7 May 1875 – 21 October 1952) was a transport administrator with the Victorian Railways who over the course of 30 years revolutionised the railways in Victoria. Clapp introduced faster services and more powerful locomotives, supported the farming sector and presented a report on standardising rail gauges which then led to a uniform rail gauge across capital cities. His most well-known project was the upgrade of the Sydney Limited service into the all-steel, all-air-conditioned, non-stop, high-speed express streamliner, Spirit of Progress which was launched on 17 November 1937. Clapp became Chairman of Commissioners of Victorian Railways in 1920 and remained Chairman until his retirement in 1951. Harold W Clapp was appointed a Knight Commander of the Order of the British Empire (KBE) in 1941 in recognition of his contribution to public service.railways wodonga, fred rochow, wodonga railwaymen, s class locomotive

The Fred Rochow Railways Collection incorporates photos related to the operation of the Wodonga Railway Station including different types of trains and railways staff C. 1930 – 1990. It was donated to the Wodonga Historical Society by Fred Rochow, a railwayman who spent many years based in Wodonga. He joined the Victorian Railways on 17th June l947 and retired in 1988. For some time, he was a member of the Australian Federated Union of Locomotive Enginemen and served a term as a member of the Trades Hall Council. He had an extensive knowledge of the struggles that took place to achieve better conditions for railway workers. Fred worked for many years as a fireman and then worked his way up the ranks to driver, experiencing many changes from the days of steam locomotives through to diesel trains, locomotives and even the modern XPT train. He worked throughout Victoria at different stages of his career, with his final working years focused on the northeast of Victoria and the Albury to Melbourne line. After his retirement, Fred continued to share his love of steam miniature trains with the community.This collection has local and statewide significance as it captures images of trains, locomotives and personnel who operated the railway services in Wodonga and throughout Northeast Victoria. The railways played a critical role in opening up Victoria and connecting Australia for trade, business, social communication and transport.Geoff Williams started his railway career as a clerk at Maryborough on 27 August 1947. He became a cleaner in June1952. He passed his Driver qualification in March 1956. Geoff achieved is Fireman's ticket in 1959. He was appointed as Engineman's Instructor in 1972. After a successful career with Victorian Railways, Geoff retired on 1 September 1986.railways wodonga, fred rochow, wodonga railwaymen, geoff williams

The Fred Rochow Railways Collection incorporates photos related to the operation of the Wodonga Railway Station including different types of trains and railways staff C. 1930 – 1990. It was donated to the Wodonga Historical Society by Fred Rochow, a railwayman who spent many years based in Wodonga. He joined the Victorian Railways on 17th June l947 and retired in 1988. For some time, he was a member of the Australian Federated Union of Locomotive Enginemen and served a term as a member of the Trades Hall Council. He had an extensive knowledge of the struggles that took place to achieve better conditions for railway workers. Fred worked for many years as a fireman and then worked his way up the ranks to driver, experiencing many changes from the days of steam locomotives through to diesel trains, locomotives and even the modern XPT train. He worked throughout Victoria at different stages of his career, with his final working years focused on the northeast of Victoria and the Albury to Melbourne line. After his retirement, Fred continued to share his love of steam miniature trains with the community.This collection has local and statewide significance as it captures images of trains, locomotives and personnel who operated the railway services in Wodonga and throughout Northeast Victoria. The railways played a critical role in opening up Victoria and connecting Australia for trade, business, social communication and transport. Ray Murphy- First Driver on the "Spirit of Progress". "Spirit of Progress" Drivers were the only Drivers issued with wings to wear on their caps.railways wodonga, fred rochow, wodonga railwaymen, spirit of progress, ray murphy

The Fred Rochow Railways Collection incorporates photos related to the operation of the Wodonga Railway Station including different types of trains and railways staff C. 1930 – 1990. It was donated to the Wodonga Historical Society by Fred Rochow, a railwayman who spent many years based in Wodonga. He joined the Victorian Railways on 17th June l947 and retired in 1988. For some time, he was a member of the Australian Federated Union of Locomotive Enginemen and served a term as a member of the Trades Hall Council. He had an extensive knowledge of the struggles that took place to achieve better conditions for railway workers. Fred worked for many years as a fireman and then worked his way up the ranks to driver, experiencing many changes from the days of steam locomotives through to diesel trains, locomotives and even the modern XPT train. He worked throughout Victoria at different stages of his career, with his final working years focused on the northeast of Victoria and the Albury to Melbourne line. After his retirement, Fred continued to share his love of steam miniature trains with the community.This collection has local and statewide significance as it captures images of trains, locomotives and personnel who operated the railway services in Wodonga and throughout Northeast Victoria. The railways played a critical role in opening up Victoria and connecting Australia for trade, business, social communication and transport.George Lynch standing alongside a DD Locomotive. This locomotive is fitted with two C-Class compressors used for testing air brakes on the extended length of a train. The DD Class locomotives entered service in 1902 as a new express passenger and mixed traffic steam locomotive class. They were the most numerous locomotive class on the Victorian Railways, with a total of 261 DD locomotives built. Originally introduced on mainline express passenger services, they were quickly superseded by the much larger A class and were relegated to secondary and branch line passenger and goods service, where they gave excellent service for the next 50 years. With some modifications made to the original design, the DD class locomotives ran on railways throughout Victoria until 1974railways wodonga, fred rochow, wodonga railwaymen, george lynch, dd class locomotives

The Fred Rochow Railways Collection incorporates photos related to the operation of the Wodonga Railway Station including different types of trains and railways staff C. 1930 – 1990. It was donated to the Wodonga Historical Society by Fred Rochow, a railwayman who spent many years based in Wodonga. He joined the Victorian Railways on 17th June l947 and retired in 1988. For some time, he was a member of the Australian Federated Union of Locomotive Enginemen and served a term as a member of the Trades Hall Council. He had an extensive knowledge of the struggles that took place to achieve better conditions for railway workers. Fred worked for many years as a fireman and then worked his way up the ranks to driver, experiencing many changes from the days of steam locomotives through to diesel trains, locomotives and even the modern XPT train. He worked throughout Victoria at different stages of his career, with his final working years focused on the northeast of Victoria and the Albury to Melbourne line. After his retirement, Fred continued to share his love of steam miniature trains with the community.This collection has local and statewide significance as it captures images of trains, locomotives and personnel who operated the railway services in Wodonga and throughout Northeast Victoria. The railways played a critical role in opening up Victoria and connecting Australia for trade, business, social communication and transport.Left to right: Eddie Moss, Max Church, Bill Baldock, Claude Clancy, Norm Davey, Alex Reid, Jack O’Donnell, Vin Snow. Claude Clancy was born on 27 March 1895 and started cleaning with Victorian Railways on 16 January 1920. He passed his Driver qualification on 30 December 1936. Alex Reid was born on 4 August 1891. He joined the Victorian Railways at Port Melbourne on 10 December 1907. Alex started cleaning at North Melbourne on 4 October 1910. Alex gained his Driver qualification on 18 December 1919. Jack O’Donnell was born on 3 May 1889 and began working with Victorian Railways on 1 June 1911. He started cleaning on 13 January 1912. He gained his Driver qualification on 19 November 1920. Vin Snow started his Victorian Railways career at Wodonga in September 1939. He passed his Driver qualifications in 1949. Vin retired in 1978.railways wodonga, fred rochow, wodonga railwaymen, claude clancy, alex reid, vin snow, jack o’donnell

The Fred Rochow Railways Collection incorporates photos related to the operation of the Wodonga Railway Station including different types of trains and railways staff C. 1930 – 1990. It was donated to the Wodonga Historical Society by Fred Rochow, a railwayman who spent many years based in Wodonga. He joined the Victorian Railways on 17th June l947 and retired in 1988. For some time, he was a member of the Australian Federated Union of Locomotive Enginemen and served a term as a member of the Trades Hall Council. He had an extensive knowledge of the struggles that took place to achieve better conditions for railway workers. Fred worked for many years as a fireman and then worked his way up the ranks to driver, experiencing many changes from the days of steam locomotives through to diesel trains, locomotives and even the modern XPT train. He worked throughout Victoria at different stages of his career, with his final working years focused on the northeast of Victoria and the Albury to Melbourne line. After his retirement, Fred continued to share his love of steam miniature trains with the community.This collection has local and statewide significance as it captures images of trains, locomotives and personnel who operated the railway services in Wodonga and throughout Northeast Victoria. The railways played a critical role in opening up Victoria and connecting Australia for trade, business, social communication and transport. Express Steam Locomotive passing through railway yards at Wodongarailways wodonga, fred rochow, wodonga railwaymen, steam locomotive

The Fred Rochow Railways Collection incorporates photos related to the operation of the Wodonga Railway Station including different types of trains and railways staff C. 1930 – 1990. It was donated to the Wodonga Historical Society by Fred Rochow, a railwayman who spent many years based in Wodonga. He joined the Victorian Railways on 17th June l947 and retired in 1988. For some time, he was a member of the Australian Federated Union of Locomotive Enginemen and served a term as a member of the Trades Hall Council. He had an extensive knowledge of the struggles that took place to achieve better conditions for railway workers. Fred worked for many years as a fireman and then worked his way up the ranks to driver, experiencing many changes from the days of steam locomotives through to diesel trains, locomotives and even the modern XPT train. He worked throughout Victoria at different stages of his career, with his final working years focused on the northeast of Victoria and the Albury to Melbourne line. After his retirement, Fred continued to share his love of steam miniature trains with the community.This collection has local and statewide significance as it captures images of trains, locomotives and personnel who operated the railway services in Wodonga and throughout Northeast Victoria. The railways played a critical role in opening up Victoria and connecting Australia for trade, business, social communication and transport.Fireman Jack Dawe and Driver George Lynch on a meal break at Wodonga.railways wodonga, fred rochow, wodonga railwaymen, steam locomotive, jack dawe, george lynch

The Fred Rochow Railways Collection incorporates photos related to the operation of the Wodonga Railway Station including different types of trains and railways staff C. 1930 – 1990. It was donated to the Wodonga Historical Society by Fred Rochow, a railwayman who spent many years based in Wodonga. He joined the Victorian Railways on 17th June l947 and retired in 1988. For some time, he was a member of the Australian Federated Union of Locomotive Enginemen and served a term as a member of the Trades Hall Council. He had an extensive knowledge of the struggles that took place to achieve better conditions for railway workers. Fred worked for many years as a fireman and then worked his way up the ranks to driver, experiencing many changes from the days of steam locomotives through to diesel trains, locomotives and even the modern XPT train. He worked throughout Victoria at different stages of his career, with his final working years focused on the northeast of Victoria and the Albury to Melbourne line. After his retirement, Fred continued to share his love of steam miniature trains with the community.This collection has local and statewide significance as it captures images of trains, locomotives and personnel who operated the railway services in Wodonga and throughout Northeast Victoria. The railways played a critical role in opening up Victoria and connecting Australia for trade, business, social communication and transport.Driver George Judge standing on front of Locomotive X38 special train "Spirit of 96" The X class are a class of mainline diesel locomotives built by Clyde Engineering Victorian Railways between 1966 and 1976. X 38 was part of the second order. It entered service on Friday, 8th May 1970. X 37 and X 38 were built as replacements for the two S Class locomotives lost in the fatal Southern Aurora crash at Violet Town in 1969. It was later sold to Pacific National and rebuilt as XR550. "Spirit of 96" was a passenger train specially designed for cast and crew of the Australian 0-10 Network series “Number 96”. It was used to travel from Sydney to Melbourne for the annual TV Week Logie Awards. It was a silver, multi-carriage train with the Commissioner's carriage hooked up at the rear for VIPs. The 16 and a half-hour overnight journey, left from the centre of Sydney at 4.30 pm with a farewell party, complete with red carpet and jazz band in attendance. It featured whistle stop visits at country sidings and stations. Thousands of people turned out to see their favourite stars, before it arrived at Spencer Street station. The rail service of the time was keen to promote its overnight tourism packages, and for the journey the train was christened as the "Spirit of 96”. On front of locomotive "X38" On red black and white sign attached to the front rail of the locomotive "O/The Spirit of 96/Sydney-Melbourne/1974"railways wodonga, fred rochow, wodonga railwaymen, x class diesel locomotive, george judge, spirit of 96

The Fred Rochow Railways Collection incorporates photos related to the operation of the Wodonga Railway Station including different types of trains and railways staff C. 1930 – 1990. It was donated to the Wodonga Historical Society by Fred Rochow, a railwayman who spent many years based in Wodonga. He joined the Victorian Railways on 17th June l947 and retired in 1988. For some time, he was a member of the Australian Federated Union of Locomotive Enginemen and served a term as a member of the Trades Hall Council. He had an extensive knowledge of the struggles that took place to achieve better conditions for railway workers. Fred worked for many years as a fireman and then worked his way up the ranks to driver, experiencing many changes from the days of steam locomotives through to diesel trains, locomotives and even the modern XPT train. He worked throughout Victoria at different stages of his career, with his final working years focused on the northeast of Victoria and the Albury to Melbourne line. After his retirement, Fred continued to share his love of steam miniature trains with the community.This collection has local and statewide significance as it captures images of trains, locomotives and personnel who operated the railway services in Wodonga and throughout Northeast Victoria. The railways played a critical role in opening up Victoria and connecting Australia for trade, business, social communication and transport.Locomotives at Broadford. Driver Vic Zeinert, Fireman C.Symes The X class were a class of mainline diesel locomotives built by Clyde Engineering for Victorian Railways between 1966 and 1976. X32 entered service on 8 September 1966. The V/Line Freight business was purchased from the Victorian government in 1999. Freight Australia was then sold to Pacific National in August 2004. Locomotive X32 was rebuilt as Locomotive XR555 and resumed service in October 2004 repainted in Pacific National blue and yellow livery. R761 - The R761 arrived in Victoria on the 28th February 1952 upon the ship ‘Helenus’ and entered service on the 9th April 1952. R761 spent long periods in storage and occasionally saw service until it was withdrawn. In 1970 R761 was overhauled and was made available for use on special trains. It became the final R class to run in VR service on the 5th September 1974, ending 120 years of mainline steam operation in Victoria. After years of debate about its future, on the 30th March 1985 the loco was officially returned to service, hauling special trains to celebrate the years of steam locomotives.On front of locomotive on left "R761" On front of locomotive on right "X32"railways wodonga, fred rochow, wodonga railwaymen, x class diesel locomotive, locomotive r761

The Fred Rochow Railways Collection incorporates photos related to the operation of the Wodonga Railway Station including different types of trains and railways staff C. 1930 – 1990. It was donated to the Wodonga Historical Society by Fred Rochow, a railwayman who spent many years based in Wodonga. He joined the Victorian Railways on 17th June l947 and retired in 1988. For some time, he was a member of the Australian Federated Union of Locomotive Enginemen and served a term as a member of the Trades Hall Council. He had an extensive knowledge of the struggles that took place to achieve better conditions for railway workers. Fred worked for many years as a fireman and then worked his way up the ranks to driver, experiencing many changes from the days of steam locomotives through to diesel trains, locomotives and even the modern XPT train. He worked throughout Victoria at different stages of his career, with his final working years focused on the northeast of Victoria and the Albury to Melbourne line. After his retirement, Fred continued to share his love of steam miniature trains with the community.This collection has local and statewide significance as it captures images of trains, locomotives and personnel who operated the railway services in Wodonga and throughout Northeast Victoria. The railways played a critical role in opening up Victoria and connecting Australia for trade, business, social communication and transport.Cliff Thomas started his career with Victorian Railways at Geelong in 1946. He was driving electric locomotives and running the depot in 1952. Cliff moved to Wodonga in 1969 where he retired in 1984.railways wodonga, fred rochow, wodonga railwaymen, cliff thomas

The Fred Rochow Railways Collection incorporates photos related to the operation of the Wodonga Railway Station including different types of trains and railways staff C. 1930 – 1990. It was donated to the Wodonga Historical Society by Fred Rochow, a railwayman who spent many years based in Wodonga. He joined the Victorian Railways on 17th June l947 and retired in 1988. For some time, he was a member of the Australian Federated Union of Locomotive Enginemen and served a term as a member of the Trades Hall Council. He had an extensive knowledge of the struggles that took place to achieve better conditions for railway workers. Fred worked for many years as a fireman and then worked his way up the ranks to driver, experiencing many changes from the days of steam locomotives through to diesel trains, locomotives and even the modern XPT train. He worked throughout Victoria at different stages of his career, with his final working years focused on the northeast of Victoria and the Albury to Melbourne line. After his retirement, Fred continued to share his love of steam miniature trains with the community.This collection has local and statewide significance as it captures images of trains, locomotives and personnel who operated the railway services in Wodonga and throughout Northeast Victoria. The railways played a critical role in opening up Victoria and connecting Australia for trade, business, social communication and transport.George Lynch had a long career with Victorian Railways. The son of a railway man, George grew up in St Arnaud near the railway line. He watched the engines go by and dreamed of being an engine driver. He started working as a cleaner in 1907. Through hard work and further study, George worked his way up to become a locomotive driver. He moved to Wodonga in 1917. At the Victorian Railways Institute examinations, George won four gold medals for Engine Working and Westinghouse Brake In 1925 he was appointed as an Instructor. George was one of four senior drivers who in rotation drove the Sydney Limited. The other drivers were Ray Murphy, F. Hobbs and George Padgett. They all lived with their families in Wodonga. George drove the first Spirit of Progress from Spencer Street to Albury. He made railway history in 1937 when the Sydney Ltd ran non-stop from Albury to Spencer Street in 3 hrs. 25 mins, clipping 25 minutes off the previous record. He retired at the age of 65 in 1953 and died at the age of 74.railways wodonga, fred rochow, wodonga railwaymen, george lynch snr