Wodonga West School opened on 24 January 1870 and closed on 9 May 1950. It was located near the current intersection of McKoy Street and the Hume Freeway in West Wodonga on land donated by J.W. Klinge. The school replaced an older school, “Green Hills School, which was located north of the railway line. A public telephone was installed at the school and the mail service operated from the school three days each week. In 1935 a row of 15 ornamental trees was planted along the boundary fence, one for each of the pupils at the school. When this school closed the nine remaining students were transferred to Wodonga Primary School.This image is significant because it documents the early developments in the provision of education in Wodonga, Victoria A black and white photo of a group of children standing outside the Wodonga West School building.wodonga schools, wodonga west primary school, education wodonga

St Luke’s Anglican Church officially opened on 15 March 1863 and originally operated as a branch of the Albury church. The first minister to conduct a service there was Rev. Robert Potter, followed by Rev. B. Brownrigg , Rev. J. H. May, Rev. D. E. Jones and Rev. J. K. Tucker. The first resident minister at Wodonga was Rev. J. H. White who came in 1879. The Church was constructed from locally hewn stone. After serving the congregation for more than a century, the Church was closed by the Health Commission due to its deteriorated condition which was judged to be beyond repair. It was demolished by voluntary labour on the 10 – 11 August 1968. A collection of 4 black and white photos depicting St. Luke's Church Wodonga at different times in its development.st luke's church wodonga, churches wodonga, early churches wodonga

Soft drink came in bottles bought at the local grocery store or at a larger city store on a shopping expedition. The shape of the bottles changed as did the stopper used to seal it. Bottles were re cycled remaining the property of the manufacturer. The history of Zedmanfg Company, Albury. Historical: Change of bottles - shape, glass, stopper, embossing, use. Aesthetic: Display showing embossing & shape especially if in good condition. Clear glass bottle. Bottom half has straight sides. Upper half tapers to the top where a metal crimp fits over the lip. Manufacturer's name is heavily embossed in cursive script diagonally across the lower half. The place 'Albury' is embossed below the diagonal script, in capital letters.There is heavy embossing at the base and at the bottom of the sides. All in capital letters. It has a crown seal - AGMZedManfg Co. Albury - across the bottom half of the bottle. At the base on the sides around the circumference 'This bottle is the property of the Zedmanfg Co. Albury. On the Base: F1486, GM inside A, M 113 glass, bottle, domestic, household, albury, zedmanfg co., drinks, lemonade

“Mac's Hotel" in Wodonga West, one of Wodonga's earliest hotels, was owned by William Christie McFarlane who arrived in Melbourne in December 1854 from Stirling, Scotland. He spent his first three years mining for gold at Beechworth. For the next three years he was the manager of the King’s Hotel at Wooragee, which was owned by his father-in-law, Charles David King. In 1860 he bought 180 acres of land at Wodonga, eventually extending his holdings to 1,000 acres on which he farmed. He called his property “Abbey Craig” after his home in Scotland. In time he owned several properties in Wodonga, a small vineyard and 'Mac's Hotel'. Mac’s Hotel was a popular meeting place for teamsters and other travellers on the Sydney Road. It opened in the early 1860s and the license was at times in the name of W. C. McFarlane and at other times held by his wife, Mary McFarlane. William had several positions during his life in Wodonga including serving as Postmaster and conducting a Commission and Insurance Agency business. He was appointed Secretary to the first Wodonga Building Society. W. C. McFarlane also filled the position of Sheriff’s Officer, Registrar of Births and Deaths and Marriages, and Justice of the Peace. W. C. McFarlane served as a member of the Wodonga Shire Council for several years including three terms as Shire President: 1889-90, 1890-1891 and 1894-95. He passed away in Wodonga in December 1906. After his death, the license of Mac’s Hotel continued to be held by Mary McFarlane until her death in November 1910. The license was not renewed and the hotel was taken over as a residence by their son, Walter McFarlane. Unfortunately, on 25 January 1913, Walter was assisting neighbours fighting grass fires about 3 miles away when his own home was completely destroyed by fire, bringing to an end the long history of the popular hostelry, Mac’s Hotel.This image is significant because it documents an early business in Wodonga conducted by a prominent Wodonga resident.Black and white image of people standing, on horseback and in coach outside Mac' Hotel, West Wodongamac's hotel, hotels wodonga

Miss Olive Codling was a Foundation Member and a Life Member of the Wodonga Historical Society. Many of her photos are held in the Society Collection. The Wodonga Post Office was constructed on the corner of Sydney Road (High Street) and South Street in 1874. It was Wodonga’s second Post Office. The original post office opened on June 1, 1856 near Wodonga Creek. This building was originally built of red brick, although it was later painted over in white. It had an attached residence in South Street and was connected to it by a door. The residence was later demolished to move the mail boxes which had faced High Street, to South Street. The brick Telephone Exchange was constructed in 1946 behind the Post Office but separated from it. It operated as a manual exchange until the late 1960’s or early 1970’s. In 1985 a new post office was opened further south in High Street. This building, greatly renovated, is now part of the Wodonga Community College.This photo collection is significant as it documents how the businesses and buildings in Wodonga have evolved and contributed to community throughout the 20th century. A black and white image of the 2nd Wodonga Post Office. There are 6 windows across the front of the building and the name Wodonga Post Office below a round clock. To the left of the building is the royal insignia of the crown above the letters E.R. A sign for the Commonwealth Saving Bank of Australia is also attached to the wall.high st wodonga, wodonga post office, businesses wodonga

This cigarette case was owned by Kenneth Darnton Watson and carried into battle during World War I. Kenneth Darnton Watson was born at Bendigo on 24 May 1893 to George Darnton Watson and Adelaide Nora Holmes. He was educated at Melbourne Church of England Grammar School, being selected as School Captain in 1913 and a member of the Head of the River rowing team. After finishing school, he worked as a jackaroo on Wanganella Station and later at Mt. Widderin, Skipton, Victoria. When WWI was declared, Kenneth enlisted and after initial training at Maribyrnong, Victoria he left Australia as 2nd Lieutenant with 7th Australian Field Artillery Brigade, to disembark at Plymouth on July 10, 1916. He took part in the Battles of Messines, Menin Road, Polygon Wood and Passchendaele Ridge in 1917. For his efforts in Passchendaele Ridge on 17th December he was awarded the Military Cross "for conspicuous gallantry and devotion to duty." In 1918 he took part in the Battles of Villers-Bretonneux, Hamel and Amiens. He returned to Australia in November 1919 and was discharged on 20th January 1920. In 1922, Kenneth Darnton Watson came to Wodonga where he purchased de Kerilleau, consisting of 2,500 acres, from Mr George Gordon. The two storey brick homestead had been built by William Huon in 1870. On 30th May 1924, he married Phyllis Emily Lenore Austin and they had four children, Ian Darnton 1925, Robert Darnton 1926 Rosemary McPherson 1929 and Faith Holmes 1931. On the land he worked hard, building fences, cattle, sheep and horse yards, and farmed Corriedale sheep, Shorthorn cattle and horses. Mr Watson was an innovative farmer, introducing modern methods of top dressing at de Kerilleau by means of an aircraft. He was also a dedicated community man. He was a member of both Albury and Wodonga Show Committees, Murray Valley Development League, No.1 Region, Graziers' Association of Southern Riverina, Albury Legacy Club, Wodonga RSL, and Wodonga Turf Club including terms as President on several of these organisations. Kenneth was also a Warden of St. Luke's Church of England, Wodonga. Kenneth served as Wodonga Shire President from 1929 to 1931, and was again elected to Council from 1943 to 1945. A most respected and valued member of the local community, Kenneth Darnton Watson died on the 4th of October 1951, aged 58. Lenore Watson lived at de Kerilleau until her death on 15th June 1984. Both are buried in Wodonga.This item is significant because it was owned by a decorated Australian serviceman and prominent member of the Wodonga community.A silver cigarette case owned by Kenneth Darnton Watson of Wodonga. The inside contains straps to hold the cigarettes in place. Both the front and back have been engraved.On front: KDW On back: 1919kenneth darnton watson, watson family wodonga, wodonga community members

From 1870 onwards discussions took place in Wodonga concerning the best location for a building to house and reorganise the holdings of the Wodonga Literary Institute and Free Library. The Literary Institute, originally the Belvoir Literary Group, had been formed prior to 1861 and changed its name with the renaming of the town in 1869. In 1873 a meeting was held to consider the re-organising of the Wodonga Literary Institute and Free Library as “there were a goodly number of valuable books and other property belonging to the Institution but they were not used, and it was a pity to see such valuable works and sketches shut up in a back store getting spoiled”. In October 1885 the Wodonga and Towong Sentinel reported that the Wodonga Athenaeum and Free Library committee were seeking a grant of £200 to add to the £200 already paid to purchase Hellerman’s buildings. In October 1886 the Wodonga Athenaeum in Hume Street was officially opened. It was designed by Gordon and Gordon, architects, and built by Stewart Bros. This building continued to house the Atheneum and its collection until 1915 when the new library in High Street was built. In 1916 the Athenaeum building was moved on drays drawn by Clydesdale horses, to 153 Lawrence Street and used as a private home since. The building is heritage listed. This image is one of a collection of glass negatives taken by Robert Prentice. The negatives are clearly identified as he inscribed in the glass a back-to-front capital R (Я) on to which was joined a capital P creating his mark ЯР. On the glass he would also scratch the name Prentice where he could, in this case along the bottom of the picket fence.This image is significant because it housed the Wodonga Literary Group and Free Library, the first library building in Wodonga.Black and white image of old wooden house with tin roof. Trees and a picket fence are at the front of the house.Written below picket fence: Atheneum Wodonga, Prenticewodonga literary institute and free library, atheneum wodonga, belvoir literary group, robert prentice

Wodonga Poultry Suppliers was established in the late 1940s by Albert (Bert) Elkington in partnership with his father-in-law Artie Phillips and Aubrey Gilbert. From the beginning they had an eye on the export market. Artie (Arthur) Phillips sold Bert and Aubrey the land and became the third partner. In 1945 Aubrey and Bert each gained a repatriation loan and scored £500. They cleared the land, made the bricks by hand, built freezers and killing pens and started killing and selling to the local trade. By 1947 they had completed the first large freezer, packing room and killing sheds all to the specifications of the Department of Primary Industry. They gained an export licence and began exports to England under the brand name “Donga”. By 1950, 120,000 poultry and 50,000 pairs of rabbits annually left the Athol St, Wodonga premises for overseas markets. Unfortunately the business was adversely impacted by the English wharf strike, with large stock losses and changes to the English poultry trade. Wodonga Poultry Suppliers made changes to the plant to cater for meat export to the ready markets of England, Greece, the Persian Gulf and Japan. By the 1962, Wodonga Poultry Suppliers were exporting poultry, rabbits, hares, lamb, mutton, pie offal and quarter beef to the UK, mutton to Greece and veal sides to Bahrain. The business had outgrown the original works in Athol St and larger and improved facilities were needed. Donga Meats Pty Ltd was set up in October 1963. In 1967 Bert Elkington sold his share of the company to Consolidated Meat Holdings and came back for a time as a stock controller. He passed away in Wodonga in 1993. These images are significant because they document an early major export industry established in Wodonga, Victoria. A collection of images documenting production at the Wodonga Poultry Suppliers premises in the late 1940s.wodonga poultry suppliers, early wodonga businesses, bert elkington

Bradford Kendall was established in 1922 by Lesley Bradford and Jim Kendall, investing their winnings on a race horse. They both previously worked at the BHP Steel Works. They gained contracts with the railways and mining industry. During World War II they also manufactured armaments. During the boom of the 1950s they established several foundries in South Australia, Western Australia, Queensland and Victoria. Bradford Kendall Ltd Wodonga foundry was established in 1954. It melted down old railway wheels, rails and redundant machinery to produce a range of low-alloy steel products, especially for earth-moving vehicles, railways, oil rigs and sugar factories. Wodonga was ideally placed as a change point between the different rail gauges of Victoria and New South Wales, close to the Hume Highway and the Snowy Mountain Scheme. The first sod for the site was turned on 2nd June 1954 and the first melt and pour of molten metal at Wodonga took place on 7th July 1954. Bradford Kendall Plant No.5 in Wodonga became one of the most profitable foundries in the Bradford Kendall group. Bill Black became the first plant Manager, a position he held for 30 years. Another long term employee was Pat Gooding who began work at a 15 year old and retired for the position of Bradken foundry Manufacturing Manager 51 years later. In the early 1980s, Australian National Industries Ltd bought Bradford Kendall and other heavy engineering companies. The Wodonga foundry with its (then) 170 or so staff became part of Bradken Consolidated along with nine other foundries in Australia and New Zealand. In 1989, Kerry Packer’s Consolidated Press Holdings Ltd took control of ANI. In January 1999, Smorgon Steel Group acquired ANI, which included the Bradken business. The company changed hands again in 2001 when Smorgon Steel Group sold Bradken to Castle Harlan Australian Mezzanine Partners (CHAMP). In 2016 negotiations began for Bradken to be taken over by Hitachi Construction for A$689 million. In April 2017 Bradken became a wholly owned subsidiary of Hitachi Construction Machinery Co. Limited.A collection of black and white images and advertising for Bradford Kendall (Bradken) Wodonga.bradford kendall, wodonga industries, wodonga businesses

Sanyo was one of the international companies that set up business in Wodonga in the 1970s as part of the decentralisation of industry. The Sanyo Australia Pty. Ltd. factory in Wodonga was officially opened on 25 October 1974 with 35 staff and production peaked in 1976-1977 when it employed 360 people. In the first 10 years, 350,000 televisions were assembled from Japanese parts. The official plaque was uncovered by Victorian Premier Rupert Hamer. In October 1977 there were 79 workers retrenched, followed by 30 in November and 45 in February 1978. In 1978 workers staged a sit-in which lasted over a week, to protest multiple mass retrenchments of staff. The factory stayed open for almost another decade. In 1982 the General Manager of Sanyo was quoted as saying the productivity in the Wodonga factory was 10% higher than in Japan. However by 1984 the number of staff had reduced to 112 and the factory closed in 1987. The premises were taken over by Parker Hannifin and the administration building is now the home of 3D Lanes Bowling Alley. The street in which it is located is now called Sanyo Drive.These images are significant because they document and industry which employed many people in Wodonga in the 1970s and 1980s.A set of black and white photographs of the Sanyo Australia Pty Ltd premises in Wodonga.sanyo, sanyo-guthrie wodonga, decentralised industry wodonga

Miss Olive Codling was a Foundation Member and a Life Member of the Wodonga Historical Society. Many of her prize-winning photos are held in the Society Collection. She also held a range of roles and committee positions in a wide range of Wodonga community organisations. These included the Horticultural Society, the Wodonga Arts Council, the Wodonga Camera Club and the Wodonga Lapidary Club. Wodonga Shire was created in 1876 when the colonial government agreed to ratepayers' petitions to have their part of the local government district severed from the Yackandandah Shire to form a new municipality. After meeting for 14 years in rented premises, in the Prince of Wales Hall, Wodonga Council built its first Shire Hall on the corner of High and Elgin Streets in 1890. The date on the facade of the building represents the date of the formation of the Shire.This image is significant as it documents an important building and era in the development of local government in Wodonga.Wodonga Shire office at corner of High street and Melbourne Road Built 1876 demolished 1971 . Now the location of Woolworths shopping complex. Also incorporated the Melba Theatre On facade of building: " A.D. 1876"high st wodonga, wodonga local government, shire hall wodonga

The Wodonga Creek Stock Bridge was constructed by the Country Roads Board in 1939. The date was recorded on a small plaque attached to one of the trestles. The bridge is an important reminder of one of the industries Wodonga was built on — cattle. It was constructed to develop a new stock route between Albury and Wodonga which would direct cattle away from the main bitumen roads and traffic bridges to the Wodonga Saleyards, where thousands of sheep and cattle were sold each month. It is a moderately tall timber trestle road bridge consisting of nine spans, with a deck length of 76 metres and deck width of 4.5 metres, and a maximum span length of 8.5 metres. The substantial timber deck featured decking laid horizontally and longitudinal running planks laid on top of it. The bridge also has timber side safety rails to discourage livestock from straying over the side. The bridge also became the centre of summer social activity for the young people of Wodonga as the area became a gazetted swimming area before the Wodonga Swimming Pool was constructed in 1959. In 1980 the Wodonga Saleyards were relocated to Bandiana to the east of the city. This meant that Wodonga Creek Stock Bridge was no longer needed for its original purpose. Although listed as a significant site by the Victorian Heritage and National Heritage Trust on 3/08/1998, the bridge fell into disrepair and also suffered damage from several floods. A suspension Bridge was constructed beside the Stock Route Bridge in 2013 and the old bridge was closed to traffic. Major damage caused by several floods, including a major flood in 2022 has resulted in the bridge being unsafe and its future is uncertain. The model of the Wodonga Creek Stock Bridge in our Collection made by Mr John Wild, depicts its current condition.The Wodonga Creek Stock Bridge is significant for technical, historic and social reasons and has been registered at the State Heritage level. It is of technical significance as a nine span bridge with tall timber trestles. Large bridges of this type are now very rare in Victoria. It is of historic significance as a surviving structurally authentic bridge designed specifically for livestock and drover use, on a historic stock route. The Stock Bridge is of social significance for its location at a popular riverside leisure spot since its construction in 1939.A collection of photographic images depicting the Wodonga Creek Stock Bridge. It contains both black and white and coloured images taken at different times in the Stock Bridge's history. A model of the Bridge made for Our Society is also included.wodonga creek stock bridge, wodonga heritage

W. Thorne architect of Albury designed the library building and the plan was approved in June 1915 The building contractor was J. W. Cochrane of Albury. The land was purchased from Mr. Walter Huon. On the 28th July 1915 the Shire President, Councillor Beardmore, laid the foundation stone for the building that would become the Wodonga Public Library. Almost 12 months later, on the 8th March 1916, the library was officially opened. It was the pride of Wodonga. The Shire Council closed their doors for a brief period so that all staff could attend the opening and the teachers and children of the local schools also attended. Councillor Beardmore declared that “it was an asset that would return a profit- not in pounds and shillings and pence but in the development and furnishing of the minds and lives of our young people”. It was known as the Beardmore Library. The Wodonga Athenaeum, in an out of the way location, had closed in 1914 after continuing reports of a lack of funds and the proceeds of the sale of the building went towards the building of the new library. In 1915 the library building committee started to put together a building fund for a new library. The library, situated at 78 High Street, was funded almost exclusively by the public. The books from the Athenaeum were presented to the library committee at the opening in 1916. The new library was both a place for education and recreation, a communal space to socialise, which also boasted a billiards room downstairs. In March 1970 construction of a new Civic Centre which included a library began in Wodonga. With its completion the following year, the original library was closed down. The building was vacant for some time and deteriorated badly. It was later purchased by Peter Middleton, who extensively restored the building. These images have local significance as they document an important building in Wodonga.2 photos - one black and white and one in colour of the same brick building. The first photo is of the building when it served as the Wodonga Public Library. The colour photo was taken approximately 60 years later.Photo 1 - In Brickwork above the door: PUBLIC LIBRARY Photo 2 - Above door: MIDDLETONS CARPETSwodonga public library, wodonga buildings

This image is representative of many photographs illustrating the level crossing in the centre of Wodonga. Since its opening in 1873 the railway line had crossed High Street, originally called Sydney Road. It bisected the city with level crossing gates frequently stopping the flow of traffic and pedestrians as trains passed through. Signal Box B stood on the eastern side of the High Street level crossing and a big wheel closed and opened the gates. On 17th September, 1961, it was replaced by boom gates and flashing lights. The railway crossing was removed from High Street as part of the Wodonga Rail Bypass project. This involved a 5.5 kilometres bypass, the elimination of 11 level crossings and the relocation of the Wodonga station. It was moved from its original central location to a position on a new line on the northern edge of the town. The old station closed on 8 November 2008 and the new station opened on 25 June 2011.This image has local and statewide significance as it captures the former crossing in a major railway system. The railways played a critical role in opening up Victoria and connecting Australia for trade, business, social communication and transport.A black and white photo of the railway level crossing in High Street, Wodonga with gates closed. The Melbourne to Sydney railway line went through the centre of Wodonga and trains frequently held up internal vehicular and pedestrian traffic in the main street. railways wodonga, wodonga railway relocation, high st wodonga rail crossing

Miss Olive Codling was a Foundation Member and a Life Member of the Wodonga Historical Society. Many of her prize-winning photos are held in the Society Collection, including a series of photos of buildings in High Street (formerly Sydney Road), Wodonga. The CWA Hall officially opened in 1938 having been built on land granted by the Wodonga Council. Wodonga Infant Welfare Centre also occupied part of the building until 1959. Last meeting of the CWA in that hall was in held in December 1983, with the Council resuming ownership of the land to build the current day Post Office. Country Fire Brigade’s new fire station opened in High Street on 31st March 1940. The building comprised an appliance room for housing the fire engine and plant. The floor had been especially treated to enable dancing when the occasion warranted. There was a meeting room, a station-keeper’s bedroom and a repair shop. A shower room and modern kitchen were also included. The Fire station relocated to Smythe and Stanley Street corner which opened in 1977. They have now relocated to Thomas Mitchell Drive, Wodonga.This photo collection is significant as it documents how the businesses and buildings in Wodonga have evolved and contributed to community throughout the 20th century.A series of black and white photos depicting the Fire Station and CWA hall located in High Street, Wodonga C1940 - 1983wodonga businesses, high st wodonga, wodonga fire brigade, wodonga country women's association, cwa wodonga

Stan and Mary Parker commenced the Plant Farm in Smythe Street Wodonga in February 1949. The nursery consisted of two blocks, on one of which their house was built. They started off with approximately £70 and a 1939 Singer mini-Ute. In the early days most customers came from the farming community. In late 1951 the Parkers purchased to a new site on the corner of High and Osburne Streets. Business went well and in 1957 they purchased the adjoining block. They later demolished the old house on the corner of High Street and Osburne Street, building a new home lower on the same block. As the nursery prospered Stan and Mary built a shop and showrooms with glassed-in portion for the indoor plants and a large shaded area for the display of shrubs. In 1978 they sold the nursery to Mr. & Mrs. John Gale. In 1981 the Wodonga Plant farm was purchased Geoff and Kay Pollard and they moved to its current location at the corner of Beechworth Road and Huon Creek Road. Initially they brought it as an investment but it soon got into their blood and chose to not only continue but expand the nursery and its offerings. This included a large showroom, a water shop which specialises in pool equipment, chemicals and water testing, a children's playground and an outdoor blind centre. Further expansions led to the addition of a Tuscan-style cafe on the site which has become a meeting place. The business was nominated the Yates Victorian Best Garden Centre in Australia for many years and won the award in 1997. In 2024, the Wodonga Plant Farm is still a vibrant and popular business being operated by the Pollard Family.These items are significant because they document the story of respected Wodonga Business which has served the community for over 60 years.A selection of photographs and article documenting the story of the Wodonga Plant Farmearly wodonga businesses, wodonga plant farm, pollard family, geoff and kay pollard

These signature stamps were used by Ray O’Toole and Des Packer in their roles on Wodonga Council. Mr Ray O'Toole worked at Prahran, Springvale, Keilor and Yarrawonga Councils before joining Wodonga as Chief Clerk and accountant in 1972. In 1973, Mr O'Toole became Deputy Town Clerk and was appointed as the Chief Executive Officer in 1980. He retired from that role in1994 when all local governments throughout Victoria were dissolved by the Kennett government in a major reorganisation. Ray was elected as a Councillor to the newly formed Council in 1997 and served until 2005. He died in Wodonga on 2nd August 2022. Des Packer was appointed as Finance Director of Wodonga Council in July 1989 after previously serving as Deputy Town Clerk.This item is significant because it documents key officers in the Wodonga City Council.Two rubber signature stamps attached to metal backing strip. These stamps would be attached to a handle to apply signatures to Wodonga Council cheques.wodonga city council, ray o'toole, des packer

Ian Darnton Watson was a member of a prominent family of civic leaders in Wodonga. He was born on 6th July 1925 in Albury, the first son of Kenneth Darnton Watson and Phyllis Lenore Emily Austin. He completed his primary education at Albury Grammar School, and later became a boarder at Melbourne Church of England Grammar School. He enlisted for military service at Albury on 25th January 1944 and commenced full time service on 8th February 1944 at Royal Park in Melbourne, Victoria and was allocated to the 2nd Medium Artillery Regiment. He embarked on overseas service in Borneo on 30th July 1945 and disembarked in Australia on 15th April 1947 after serving with the Australian occupation forces in Japan. Mr Watson was discharged on 22nd April 1947 at which time he was a member of the Australian 2nd Medical Regiment. On discharge he returned home to help his father farm his property, de Kerilleau in Wodonga which was classified by the National Trust in 1974. Ian described his father, Kenneth as a hardworking, practical man, who for two years from 1929 - 1931, had been the Wodonga Shire President. Cr K. D. Watson was again elected to the Council in 1943 and served until he died in October 1951. In March 1957, he married Miss Lesley Buttfield, of Sydney, NSW. They had three children, Fiona, John and Rowena. John was later to become a member of Wodonga Council and served as Mayor. Ian was President of the RSSAILA (Returned Sailor's, Soldier's and Airmen's Imperial League of Australia) branch at Wodonga from 1953 to 1955 and remained as a member after that time. The League was renamed to the Returned Services League in 1965. Mr Ian Watson died on 14 December 1981, aged 56.This certificate is significant because it recognises the service of Ian Darnton Watson in support of Returned Servicemen in Wodonga.A framed certificate mounted on card. The frame is plastic with a wood grain finish.On Certificate:- R.S.S.A.I.L.A. VICTORIAN BRANCH Presented to Ian D. Watson, As a token of esteem and in grateful recognition of valuable services rendered as President of the Wodonga Sub Branch Years 1953 to 1955.wodonga rssaila, ian darnton watson, watson family wodonga, rsl wodonga

This plaque commemorates the official opening of the liveweight selling facilities at the Wodonga Municipal Saleyards, named the W. G. Page Saleyards, in 1980. Liveweight selling usually involves a curfew where cattle have to be at the saleyard by a specific time before the sale in order for them to be weighed prior to auction. Cattle that do not make the curfew time are sold on a $/head basis. The last sales at this facility took place in February 2015 before being replaced by the privately-run Barnawartha North's Northern Victoria Livestock Exchange. William George Page was Shire and City Engineer in Wodonga from 1965 until 1989. When he arrived the Shire of Wodonga had a population of 17,000 people. In 1966 Wodonga was selected as a city for special growth assistance. In 1972 Bill Page presented a new Town Plan to the Wodonga Council. Over the ensuing years he dedicated himself to bring this plan to fruition. He often had to argue and campaign with the Albury-Wodonga Corporation to push for the interests of development in Wodonga. This included winning a planning appeal to allow the saleyards to be relocated to Bandiana on the outskirts of Wodonga. Bill Page retired on health grounds in July 1989. The Council honoured him with a farewell dinner and renamed the saleyards at Bandiana the W.G. Page Saleyards in his honour.The Mayor , Cr Valentina Gillard, said "Every development in Wodonga in the past 24 years has a bit of Bill Page in it". William Page died 3 months later at 58 years old.A bronze forged metal plaque with detailed inscription. Bolts to fix plaque to the wall are still attached.RURAL CITY OF WODONGA / THIS PLAQUE/ COMMEMORATES THE OFFICIAL OPENING OF THE/ LIVEWEIGHT SELLING FACILITIES AT / THE WODONGA MUNICIPAL SALEYARDS /BY/THE HON. DIGBY CROZIER, M.L.C., / MINISTER FOR LOCAL GOVERNMENT/ ON WEDNESDAY, 4TH MARCH, 1981 CR. H. W, DRAPER, J.P. MAYOR R. I. O'TOOLE TOWN CLERK , CR. I. J. MACAULAY MARKETS CHAIRMAN W. G. PAGE CITY ENGINEERlivestock sales wodonga, liveweight cattle sales, municipal saleyards wondonga

The Greatorex company came to Wodonga in August 1945 under the Cain Government decentralisation policy. It initially had premises in Beechworth Road, around the corner from Tallangatta Road (now Thomas Mitchell Drive). Due to expansion they later relocated to the corner of Tallangatta Road and Anne Street Wodonga in 1952. Greatorex had its main manufacturing plant in Melbourne, Victoria. At their peak Greatorex Pty Ltd. which also operated as Supreme Surgical Hosiery Co., manufactured brassieres, swimsuits, elastic thread, surgical hosiery and employed 90 staff in Wodonga. The company which was operated by Thomas Greatorex with Mr M. P. Brain as Manager, also owned Fulflex Yarns Pty. Ltd. Fulflex produced elastic yarns to be used in the manufacture of garments at Supreme Surgical Hosiery. In 1960, due to the increasing cost of freight charges for moving raw materials and manufactured goods to and from Melbourne, the company was forced to close down. Plant and machinery valued at over £30,000 was moved to Melbourne. Some personnel were given the opportunity to also transfer to the parent company. In 2024, the company still operates as Greatorex Textile Industries P/L in Moorabbin, Victoria.These images are significant because they document an industry which operated in Wodonga in the 1940s and 1950s.A collection of black and white photos of workers at the Greatorex / Supreme Surgical Hosiery Co. in Wodonga.Names listed beneath one of the images.greatorex industries, wodonga industries

Abel Hoyle Turton was born in 1877 and married Hannah Richardson of Barnawartha, Victoria in 1902. He established a wheelwright and coach making business. Mr. Turton also operated a blacksmith business as a side trade. In his earlier years he was actively involved in the fire brigade, including as Secretary, and on the committee of the Wodonga Brass Band. Mr. Turton also served as secretary of the local branch of the Australian Natives Association. In 1912, despite having received a long service medal for the Wodonga Fire Brigade, Turton resigned for the brigade under a cloud after having been accused of insubordination at a fire. The brigade captain Mr. Twomey also resigned. They were both later reinstated. He died in Wodonga on 24 December 1932. After his death, the premises were taken over by George McFarlane who commenced business as a shoeing smith and general blacksmith.This image records the premises of an early 20th century Wodonga business.A black and white photograph of the premises of A. H. Turton, Coach builder of Wodonga as well as 2 newspaper advertisements for this business.Above the store: A. H. TURTON / COACH BUILDER On windows: PAINTING/ TRIMMING/ RUBBER TYRES A SPECIALITYwodonga businesses, a. h. turton, turton wheelwright wodonga

When the Free Serbian Church was established in Wodonga it was the only one in a country centre and the third Serbian Church established in Australia. It had a congregation of approximately 40 members. The Church was originally the first Presbyterian Church in Wodonga. It is a rectangular brick building with a red Colourbond gable roof to the nave area and a domed roof to the rear of the nave. Many features of the architecture from the original building remain. However, changes were made during the refurbishment by the Free Serbian congregation. The original façade red brickwork was rendered and painted white and it was modified to include two round arched relief panels. The upper relief panel was divided into three blocks of colour - red, pale blue and grey, with a centrally located gold cross. The relief panel above the double timber front doors has a gold cross and Serbian iconography. A cross was located on the wall at the apex of the gable and a cross rising up from the gable. The original pointed gothic style windows were replaced with round arched windows. The window hardware now includes wrought iron decorative features. A domed roofed area was constructed to the rear of the nave. The perimeter fence and gates included decorative wrought iron elements. The gates are particularly decorative with floral emblems and Serbian and English text in wrought iron. These photographs are significant because they provide evidence of the changing nature of religious worship and groups in Wodonga.A collection of black and white and coloured photographic images depicting the Free Serbian Orthodox Church, Wodonga. The Church was originally the first Presbyterian Church in Wodonga. It was extensively modified in 1961-62.free serbian orthodox church, wodonga churches, presbyterian church, religion wodonga

Miss Olive Codling was a Foundation Member and a Life Member of the Wodonga Historical Society. Many of her prize-winning photos are held in the Society Collection. She also held a range of roles and committee positions in a wide range of Wodonga community organisations. These included the Horticultural Society, the Wodonga Arts Council, the Wodonga Camera Club and the Wodonga Lapidary Club. This photo collection is significant as it documents how the businesses and buildings in Wodonga have evolved and contributed to community throughout the 20th century.Eastern side of High Street, Wodonga. From left Tony Conway's Sports Store, Coffee Lounge Lunch Bar and Take Away and the Post Office. Tony Conway later extended into the Take Away store. To the right of the Post Office was a laneway and then the Wodonga Shire Offices. Tony Conway opened his store with partner Jake Elkington in late 1961. In 1969 he bought the former RSL Hall and moved the Sports Store from across the road in High Street. It stayed in the family until 2007 under the management of Nic Conway.wodonga businesses, high st wodonga, conway's sports store

Sikh hawkers were a regular sight throughout the Wodonga and Upper Murray district in the early 20th century. The regular visitors to the area included Pola Singh and Gambil (Gamble) Singh. Gamble Singh often camped on McKoy’s Moorefield property in West Wodonga and several other places around the district. Gamble was also a horse breeder and had several draught horses to pull his wagon. Like many of the hawkers he worked hard to send money back to support family in India. He apparently returned to India about 1950, but left some money in the Bank of NSW in Wodonga in case he returned. He allegedly died soon after and the money was eventually able to be claimed by his nephews in India. A small overlooked park in Wodonga is named the “Gamble Singh Park” in his memory. J. Flanagan who operated the Halfway Hotel commented on having as many as seven or eight bullock teams “yoked” overnight to the fence outside the hotel as well as 100 or more Indian hawkers – led by the fondly known Pola (Pollah) Singh. The hawkers returned to Wodonga annually to renew their hawkers’ license and camped on the flats, or also came to Wodonga to collect orders at the railway station to stock up their supplies. Pola Singh was often based at the Colac Colac reserve near Corryong and had on board his compatriot Isar Singh. He often acted as an intermediary between the individual hawkers and the authorities. Unfortunately, it was Pola’s habit to walk in front of his wagon at the start of each day. On the morning of 23 June 1923 his horses were restive and hard to control. They took flight and ran Pola down on the road near Cudgewa. He was rushed to the Corryong Hospital but died there a few days later, aged 65. Pola was cremated, with some of his ashes scattered in the Murray River and some returned to his homeland to be scattered in the Ganges River. His cremation was listed in the Obituary page of the Weekly Times, Melbourne on Saturday 14 July 1923. A small memorial to Pola Singh is located in the Corryong Cemetery.These images are significant because they help to document the history of the Sikh Hawkers who plied their services to Wodonga and throughout rural Australia in the late 19th and early 20th centuries.A collection of black and white images featuring Sikh Hawkers Gamble Singh and Pola Singh take in the Wodonga area.indian hawkers, sikh hawkers, gamble singh, pola singh

After meeting for 14 years in rented premises, in the Prince of Wales Hall, Wodonga Council built its first Shire Hall on the corner of High and Elgin Streets in 1890. The first Shire Hall was demolished in 1971. The second building, Wodonga’s new Municipal Offices in Woodland Grove were used for the first time by Wodonga Councillors on 7th August 1957. The Woodland Grove building has since been used for a range of purposes, most recently as a café, but is currently unoccupied. The third purpose-built council chambers were opened in November 1976 with the first council meeting there on 1st December 1976. Westminster Fine China Australia started in the Melbourne suburb of Cheltenham at 7 Arnold Street, in 1954 by Stanley Rogers and Son Ltd. They initially used imported blanks from Japan, which were made to their specifications, and which were then decorated locally. They produced a standard range of shapes for souvenir ware, later expanding into a wide range of tea sets, dinnerware and many other styles of china ware. The Abbey mark, based on Westminster Abbey in London, was used from the start of production until about 1962.Woodland Grove was named in honour of Wodonga Shire’s first president, John Woodland. The building depicted served as the centre of municipal government for approximately 20 years, throughout the 1960s and 1970s. Woodland Grove is a central point in the Wodonga CBD and a focus for many civic and cultural activities.Small square plate with gold trim and central coloured image of Wodonga Shire Chambers. The trademark of Westminster Fine China Australia is on the under side of the plateOn front beneath image "SHIRE CHAMBERS WODONGA VIC" Underneath the plate, surrounding an drawing of Westminster Abbey "FINE CHINA/WESTMINSTER CHINA /AUSTRALIA/ 7" municipal offices, woodland grove wodonga, souvenirs, westminster china

In the late 1960s the area in Wodonga between Hovell and Havelock Streets was zoned for civic purposes. By 1969 Melbourne architect Bruce Marshall had designed the civic centre which included a library, theatre and senior citizens' rooms. The main hall had a seating capacity of 1,000 people but could be divided by a sliding door. into smaller areas. It also included meeting rooms and kitchen facilities. The Civic Centre was officially opened by the Honorable Sir Henry Bolte, K.C.M.P., M.P., Premier of Victoria who was accompanied by the Honorable R. J. Hamer E.D., Minister for Local Government. The Shire President was Cr. James A. Terrill, J.P.This image records an important stage in the development of local government and civic buildings in Wodonga, Victoria.A black and white image of the Wodonga Civic Centre in a wooden frame.wodonga civic centre, wodonga history, wodonga local government

Miss Olive Codling was a Foundation Member and a Life Member of the Wodonga Historical Society. Many of her prize-winning photos are held in the Society Collection. She also held a range of roles and committee positions in a wide range of Wodonga community organisations. These included the Horticultural Society, the Wodonga Arts Council, the Wodonga Camera Club and the Wodonga Lapidary Club. This photo collection is significant as it documents how the businesses and buildings in Wodonga have evolved and contributed to community throughout the 20th century.J. Mann and Sons was first established as a farm produce store in 1921. The range of products was extended in the 1930s and included groceries and hardware, as well as the first petrol bowser in Wodonga outside the store. After WWII, the premises were extended and the range of products continued to increase. In the 1960s the Mann Family opened a new supermarket in Wodonga, in addition to the hardware business, providing steel, plumbing and industrial supplies, and employed over 100 people. This site has since been redeveloped and is now the Mann Centre. Signs on the edge of the verandah advertise Garden Centre, Rural & Building Supplies, Footwear and a Hairstylistwodonga businesses, high st wodonga, mann wodonga

1951 was a year of celebration in Victoria. 9th May 1951 marked the 50th anniversary of the opening of the Australian Federal Parliament in 1901, which at that time met in Melbourne, Victoria. 13th November marked the Centenary of the opening of the first Victorian Parliament. Cities and towns held activities and celebrations to recognise the occasion. A "Back to Wodonga" was held from Friday 9th to Saturday 7th November 1951. Friday: Children’s Sport and Children’s Concert. Saturday: Welcome to Visitors, Official Luncheon, Gymkhana, Official Opening and Barbecue. Sunday: Church services, various denominations. Monday: Ladies’ Day (Bowls, Tennis, Croquet etc.) Afternoon Garden Parties, Boxing Tournament. Tuesday: Procession, Basket Lunch, Apex Sports Carnival, 50-50 Dance. Wednesday: Tour of district and visit to factories. Re-unions of various organisations. Thursday: All-day Street Fair and Carnival. Friday: Back to School (Higher Elementary School), Wodonga Hospital Ball. Saturday: Bonegilla Race Club meeting, Competition Sports, (Cricket, Bowls, Tennis, etc.) Farewell Parties by various organisations.This Badge is significant because it is a memento of an important community celebration in Wodonga.A small enamel badge featuring both the blue and red Australian ensigns in the centre on a white background surrounded by blue text.Around the edge; BACK TO WODONGA CELEBRATIONS 1951back to wodonga 1951, opening victorian parliament, australian federal parliament opening

The Wodonga Base Hospital was officially opened on 16th January 1954. The first public meeting to discuss plans for a hospital in the district was held on 28th June 1934, but the proposed Bush Nursing Hospital did not eventuate. In 1946 another push began and land on the current site in Vernon Street was set aside. After a lengthy period of fundraising by the local community the hospital was finally realised. By 1975 the Hospital had become increasingly busy with the accommodation having increased to 68 beds, equipment being updated and a range of ancillary services extended. Between 1954 and 1974, the hospital had admitted 41,944 patients and babies born in the hospital totalled 3,996. Extensions to the Hospital were urgently needed to meet the demand on the facilities. The Victorian Government had approved the extensions and provided funds of $772,000. The Committee of Management needed to meet the cost of furnishings and equipment. Once again the Wodonga community were called upon to support their Hospital. This recipe booklet was printed as part of the fundraising campaign.This item is significant because it represents efforts made by the Wodonga community to establish and maintain appropriate Hospital facilities in Wodonga.A small publication of recipes and advertising produced to raise funds for the development of Wodonga District Hospital.wodonga base hospital, wodonga community