The origins of the humble handheld driptorch have been lost in time. They are widely used for ignition in controlled burning operations in forest and grasslands. The date, origins and manufacturer of this particular model are unknown. The “Pacific Forester“ with its short central wand and somewhat leaky ball-valve was made by the American Wajax company in the 1940s. The Pacific Forester is slightly different in design from the more robust and common “Panama” driptorch first manufactured in 1933 and used extensively by Queensland cane farmers. The Panama is closely related to the current “Firebug” used in Victoria which is manufactured by Rodney Industries in Brisbane. The fuel is a mixture of petrol and diesel and every FCV District had their own closely-guarded secret formula ... 2:1, 3:1, 1:1, 4:1 or 3:2 ratio. There was also the choice of 91, 95 or 98 octane petrol mixed with summer or winter diesel. Occasionally some of the old Avgas or Jet-A1 lying around the depot was added with a splash of engine oil to make the mixture stick to the fuel to be ignited. The fuel mixed also varied between autumn or spring, heathland, mixed forest, or high-intensity slash burnsEarly driptorch designDrip torch with handle Wand has loop and valve. The loop is designed to assist with even flow of fuel which flows out onto the burning head of the wand. Soldered tin fuel container which holds burner mix. Gravitational feed of the driptorch allows the unit to drip fire, making it simple and quick to operate. bushfire, forests commission victoria (fcv)

The origins of the humble handheld driptorch have been lost in time. They are widely used for ignition in controlled burning operations in forest and grasslands. The “Pacific Forester“ with its short central wand and somewhat leaky ball-valve was made by the American Wajax company in the 1940s. The Pacific Forester is slightly different in design from the more robust and common “Panama” driptorch first manufactured in 1933 and used extensively by Queensland cane farmers. The Panama is closely related to the current “Firebug” used in Victoria which is manufactured by Rodney Industries in Brisbane and has an offset wand design which gives it good balance. The fuel is a mixture of petrol and diesel and every FCV District had their own closely-guarded secret formula ... 2:1, 3:1, 1:1, 4:1 or 3:2 ratio. There was also the choice of 91, 95 or 98 octane petrol mixed with summer or winter diesel. Occasionally some of the old Avgas or Jet-A1 lying around the depot was added with a splash of engine oil to make the mixture stick to the fuel to be ignited. The fuel mixed also varied between autumn or spring, heathland, mixed forest, or high-intensity slash burnsCommon driptorch used throughout AustraliaDrip torch with handle Wand has loop and valve. The loop is designed to assist with even flow of fuel which flows out onto the burning head of the wand. Pressure equalising value in top of aluminum fuel container which holds 4 litres of burner mix. Gravitational feed of the driptorch allows the unit to drip fire, making it simple and quick to operate. Instructions for use. CF+L written with texta pen.bushfire

Colour poster featuring a history or Melbourne (MMTB) tramcars from 1885 to 2001. Features a Cable Car set, and electric trams V, M, W1, X2, Y1, SW5, SW6, Z, A1, B1, A & B class refurbished and C class - Citadels trams. Has dates and brief history of each type. Issued by Yarra trams at the time of the launch of the Citadels trams. 2009.1 - A3 size, collected by BTM at the time of the launch - 12/10/2001 - See Rail News Victoria, Nov. 2001. 2009.2 - A2 size, collected by BTM during the Moomba day, 10/3/2002 from Yarra Trams display. See Reg Item 2982 for similar poster with D class tram and Rail News Victoria, November 2001.trams, tramways, citadels, mmtb, melbourne

Coloured photograph"Written on back of photograph" Back Row- L to R: Mabel Bartling, Shirley Pearce, Joyce Clayton, Betty Edsell, Nell Mathison, Dorothy Douglas, Val Walton, May Simpson, Avis Holliday, Robyn Jansen, Eileen Aanensen, Bettye Wilson. Front Row- L to R: Maureen ?, Margaret Round, Vera ?, Peg Mathews, Bev Clarkson, ?, June Boyd. Section winners, A2, 1999. Promoted to A1 for the first time in eight years.

Reproduced on p21 of 'Pioneers & Painters' Mrs. R. Thornton notifies that she has taken over the Kangaroo Ground Hotel from Mr. Walker, and the house will be made attractive for weekenders, the table, wines, and spirits being A1 quality" - Advertiser 7 July, 1922" Mrs Ruby C. Thornton sold her interest in the Kangaroo Ground Hotel in September 1928 and moved away after seven years in the district. This photo is therefore dated between July 1922 and 1928. Other newspaper articles identify Mrs Thornton's first name. The lady to the left of frame appears to be taking a photograph of the car in front of the hotel. This may be Mrs Ruby Thornton taking a picture of her car in front of her hotel. A young boy with others standing near their horse and buggy look on. The property was destroyed by fire at 1.45 am on Friday 8 August 1930. The licensee was Mr Hugh Crichton who had taken over from Ruby Thornton. He and his wife just managed to escape the fire with nothing but their night attire. The property was owned by Mr Bruce Donaldson of Ivanhoe and had been erected over 60 years earlier (according to the Advertiser). In older times it was a famous hostelry at which Cobb & Co.’s coaches had a changing station on the journey from Alexandria to Melbourne.This photo forms part of a collection of photographs gathered by the Shire of Eltham for their centenary project book,"Pioneers and Painters: 100 years of the Shire of Eltham" by Alan Marshall (1971). The collection of over 500 images is held in partnership between Eltham District Historical Society and Yarra Plenty Regional Library (Eltham Library) and is now formally known as the 'The Shire of Eltham Pioneers Photograph Collection.' It is significant in being the first community sourced collection representing the places and people of the Shire's first one hundred years.Digital image 120 format B&W negative Print 20 x 25 cm Print 9 x 12.5 cmshire of eltham pioneers photograph collection, kangaroo ground, kangaroo ground hotel, thornton, automobile, pioneers and painters, mrs ruby thornton, cobb and co, ford model t, horse drawn carriage, hotel

1621.1 - 47 A4 pages stapled in the top left hand corner - pages 63 to 121 from a set of documents of 148 pages - "Specifications for Modifications - Driver Only Tram". Details a list of modifications for Class W5/7, Z1/Z2, Z3, A1/2 B1/2 of 26 modifications. Gives the specifications for each modification, and details of maintenance support, reliability, spares and manuals to be provided as part of the contract - No. PSD 93/036. 1621.2 - 17 -A4 sheets landscape format, stapled in the top left hand corner - "W class Tram Overhaul Scope" - Rev 1, dated 30/8/1993 - the form to be completed for a detailed listing of work to be carried out at PTC Preston Workshops. Has the number "728" in the top right hand corner, but has not been filled in. Has a photocopied note "Day one (into body shop) written on the top sheet..1 - top sheet has "JRP copy (1993) in ink and "Driver Only Tram" in blue ink written over a "whiteout" correction fluid.trams, tramways, ptc, preston workshops, overhauls, driver only modifications, w class, z class, a class, b class, specification, modifications

The diorama of mounted specimens of seaweed was framed by Richard Foster Norton for Thomas Watson and is dated 1860. Watson was the Warrnambool District Surveyor at the time (1860). The inscription on the back of the frame links the artwork to the Pigeon Hill property, which was located on Allansford Road (corner of Staffords Road – north side of the Princes Highway-A1). In the 1860s, the property known as Pigeon Hill was owned by William Wall who was a publican who ran several hotels in Warrnambool and district. In 1860 Wall, was running a hotel in Wangoom, near Pigeon Hill. Further research is required to determine the exact location, but Pigeon Hill could also have been the name for that area and may have had other people living there. Thomas Watson was a member of the local horticultural society. Another possible creator of the artwork is Samuel Hannaford, a biologist with a particular interest in collecting marine flora. Hannaford left Warrnambool in 1857 and went to Geelong, so it is possible he collected the specimens had them framed in Geelong, and then arranged for their return to Watson. The other known seaweed collector was Henry Watts, who lived in Warrnambool in the mid-19th century. The seaweed collection in this box was possibly one of Watts' and could have been prepared for the Victorian Exhibition of 1861, Richard Foster Norton, also known as R.F Norton, was one of only a handful of picture framers in 1850s Melbourne. Norton was born on the 24th of July 1822 in Yelvertoft, Northamptonshire and prior to his arrival in Australia, Norton is listed in England as having the occupation of a painter. It appears that he established his business in Melbourne in 1854 or 1855. Between 1855 and 1865 he operated from 87, then 83, and later 80 Collins Street. In the Argus newspaper, Norton advertised his business as a Print seller, Carver, Gilder and Picture Frame manufacturer, supplying the growing demand for artworks and decorative furnishings in the colony during the Gold Rush. Norton also had a Geelong branch in Market Square, where this work was produced. This framed work is highly significant. Previous research has found that only six frames are in existence that can be attributed to be made Norton, dating from the late 1850’s to the mid 1860’s. Moreover, Thomas Watson the owner of the artwork, is one of the government surveyors of the region during the mid-19th century.Diorama in deep wooden frame, behind glass. Seaweed specimens have been mounted within the frame. The back of the frame has handwritten inscriptions including the framer's label (portions missing). The diorama was framed by Richard Fraser Norton. Printed label; "RICHARD FOS --- Picture Framer and -- MANUF -- CARVER, GILDER, ---- PAINTINGS CLEANED, LINED AND --- GLASSES RESILVERED, FRAMES --- Architectual Decorations created to any design in Paper Mache, Carlton Pierre, or Composition, Country Orders promptly attended to, The Order Suppl ---, BRANCH ESTABLISHMENT, MARKET SQUARE, GEELONG" flagstaff hill, warrnambool, maritime museum, richard foster norton, r.f norton, picture framers, melbourne, geelong, artwork and decorative furnishings, gold rush, seaweed, botanical specimens, 1860, pigeon hill, district surveyor, thomas watson, william wall, wangoom, samuel hannaford, henry watts, victorian exhibition, 1861, yelvertoft, northamptonshire, market square

Photo - see pdf file for further information. Number Brief Description RWC1 SW6 897 in MTA livery on Rt 5 in Swanston St outside Flinders St Station RWC2 WS6 965 as an advertising car for Next Flight on Rt 15 in Swanston St outside Flinders St Station RWC3 W1 427 on tourist Service in Swanston St at the city shunt. Photo taken from the signal box RWC4 SW5 814 as an advertising car for the RVIB in Park St near St Kilda Rd RWC5 PMTT foundation stone for Kew Depot RWC6 SW5 682 as an arts car in Coldblo Rd in Malvern Depot RWC7 SW5 724 as an arts car on Rt 6 in St Kilda Rd at Domain Rd RWC8 SW6 866 on Rt 6 and a Z 107 in MTA livery in Swanston St outside Flinders St Station RWC9 W5 821 with 2 doors in MTA livery in Victoria Prd at Brunswick St RWC10 782 at Bylands RWC11 SW5 847 in MTA livery turns into Preston Workshops during track repairs RWC12 Scrubber 10W in St Kilda Rd outside the arts centre RWC13 W5 685 on the fan of South Melb Depot RWC14 SW6 880 on Rt 8 in St Kilda Rd outside Flinders St Station RWC15 W6 997 on Rt 15 in St Kilda Rd outside Flinders St Station RWC16 W6 971 in Victoria Prd crossing Nicholson St RWC17 SW5 846 on Rt 6 in Swanston St at Flinders St RWC18 SW6 852 on Rt 72 in Swanston St at Flinders St RWC19 Z 217 on Rt 22 as an advertising car for Qantas in Swanston St outside Flinders St Station RWC20 Z 230 on Rt 1 in Swanston St at Little Lonsdale St RWC21 W7 1011 on Rt 8 as an advertising car for St George Bank in St Kilda Rd outside the Arts Centre RWC22 Z 220 as an advertising car foe Telstra in Swanston St at Flinders Lane RWC23 SW6 854 on RT passes 946 in Swanston St outside Flinders St Station RWC24 Z 56 in MTA livery in Swanston St outside Flinders St Station RWC25 SW6 930 in MTA Livery at the end of the siding in the South Melb per way depot RWC26 SW6 954 on Rt 69 at the St Kilda Terminus RWC27 SW6 948 on a semi-trailer in Preston Workshops RWC28 Z 159 in MTA Livery in Elizabeth St at Victoria St RWC29 B2 2003 on Rt 59 in Elizabeth St at Victoria St RWC30 A1 235 at the Batman Ave Terminus RWC31 Z 191 at the Batman Ave Terminus RWC32 SW6 998 on Rt 15 in MTA livery in Swanston St at Collins St RWC33 SW6 925 on Rt 8 in MTA livery in Swanston St at Collins St RWC34 SW6 993 on Rt 67 in MTA livery in Swanston St at Collins St RWC35 SW5 846 on Rt 6 in MTA livery in Swanston St at Collins St RWC36 W2 643 at Bylands RWC37 A1 233 at the Batman Ave Terminus RWC38 SW6 883 on Rt 64 in MTA livery in Swanston St at Collins St RWC39 SW6 939 in MTA Livery running in to South Melb Depot in Swanston St at Collins St RWC40 SW5 844 in M&MTB on Rt 72 in Swanston St at Collins St RWC41 W7 1024 advertising Buy Australian on Rt 5 in Swanston St at Collins ST RWC42 W7 1007 on RT 64 in M&MTB livery in Swanston St at Collins St RWC43 SW6 880 in MTA livery on Rt 69 at the St Kilda Terminus RWC44 SW6 884 on Rt 16 waits as Z 169 shunts in ST Kilda Rd outside the Arts Centre RWC45 SW5 in M&MTB livery on Rt 8 in ST Kilda Rd outside the Arts Centre RWC46 Z 133 in MTA Livery on Rt 50 in Elizabeth St at the Terminus Demonstrates the work of Ron Wilson in photography and collection of prints. Assembled album in a black presentation folder of 46 photographs from the Ron Wilson Collection - 12 A4 sleeves. All photographs have been scanned and placed on the Museum's G drive. A list of all photographs with details has been compiled. melbourne, tramways, trams, flinders st, mta, advertising trams

Thomas Walker & Son was internationally renowned in the manufacturing of ships logs. Founding father Thomas Walker (1805–1871), an engineer in Birmingham, patented a mechanical log in 1878 which was a recording instrument that attached to a rail at the stern of a vessel connected by a long cord with a rotor which was towed behind the ship. The instrument dial recorded the distance travelled. Thomas Walker first went into business to manufacture stoves at 58 Oxford Street Birmingham. Walker’s self-feeding stove was widely lauded at the Paris Exhibition of 1855, winning a prize medal and kick starting the first of many notable innovations for the Walker family's manufacturing business. However, it wasn’t until working on an earlier ships log model invented by his Uncle that Thomas Walker became interested in the further development of this device, used to ascertain a ship’s speed. Walker continued to improve on the common log for the company of Massey & Sons and these improvements were deemed revolutionary. This log became a firm favourite of the West India Association (British-based organisation promoting ties and trade with the British Caribbean) and the most common log in use for two generations. It took till 1861 for Thomas Walker and his son, Thomas Ferdinand Walker (1831-1921) to patent the first Walker log of many. Together, with the introduction of the A1 Harpoon Log two years later, they established the Walker Log Business as a force to be reckoned with. By the time of his passing in 1871, Thomas Walker Snr had not only founded a family business with considerable staying power but also instilled a tradition of public service. Having sat as a representative on the Birmingham Town Council for 15 years and played an active role in public works, he was soon given the nickname of ‘Blue Brick Walker’. Much like his father, Thomas Ferdinand Walker changed the face of the maritime industry. His patent of 1897, the ‘Cherub’ log, was a notable departure from the past providing a far more accurate reading and replacing the majority of logs of the age. They were the first to produce an electric log and the Walker factory was one of the first to introduce the 48 hour work week for employees. This ship log was invented and made by a significant marine instrument maker and innovator of machinery. It demonstrates the huge leap taken to improve navigational accuracy at sea with an instrument that was in use for decades. Ship Log, three analogue dials calibrated in increments of Miles, the Rocket Log is a nautical instrument for measuring a vessel’s speed and distance traveled. The floating log was drawn behind the ship over a fixed time period in order to measure the distance traveled. The counter could measure enough miles to cover the maximum distance traveled by a ship in one day. The log has two distinct parts; a brass register, made by Walker, showing the distance recorded and the rotator made by Reynolds, that spins in the water driving the counter. both parts are connected by a linked chain. The register has a cylindrical brass body approx 4.5 cm diameter containing registering mechanism with hardened steel bearings. Distance is indicated by the three pointers on enamel plate as follows: graduated every 10 miles from 0-100; every mile from 1-10; every 1/4 mile from 1/4 -1. A brass sling and eye secured to the body enables it to be attached to the taffrail. The original rotator would have had a cylindrical tapered wooden body, approx 4.5 cm in diameter with three metal alloy fins or could be all made from brass. A towing eye is fitted to the tapered end. The two pieces of apparatus are connected by a length of linked chain, length 22.9 cm."Walkers Rocket Ship-Log Birmingham (Patented)" printed on face-plate. "Made by Thomas Walker".flagstaff hill, warrnambool, shipwrecked-coast, flagstaff-hill, flagstaff-hill-maritime-museum, maritime-museum, shipwreck-coast, flagstaff-hill-maritime-village, ship log, rocket log, mechanical ship log, measuring instrument, marine instrument, nautical instrument, speed recording instrument, ship log register, walker ship log, walkers rocket ship-log, thomas walker, thomas walker & son, thomas ferdinand walker, walker log business, reynolds ship log rotor, taffrail log, taff rail log, west india association

Thomas Walker & Son was internationally renowned in the manufacturing of ships logs, founding father, Thomas Walker (1805–1871), an engineer in Birmingham, patented a mechanical log in 1878 which was a recording instrument that attached to a rail at the stern of a vessel connected by a long cord with a rotor which was towed behind the ship. The instrument dial recorded the distance travelled. Thomas Walker first went into business to manufacture stoves at 58 Oxford Street Birmingham. Walker’s self-feeding stove was widely lauded at the Paris Exhibition of 1855, winning a prize medal and kick starting the first of many notable innovations for the Walker family's manufacturing business. However, it wasn’t until working on an earlier ships log model invented by his Uncle that Thomas Walker became interested in the further development of this device, used to ascertain a ship’s speed. Walker continued to improve on the common log for the company of Massey & Sons and these improvements were deemed revolutionary. This log became a firm favourite of the West India Association (British-based organisation promoting ties and trade with the British Caribbean). and the most common log in use for two generations. It took till 1861 for Thomas Walker and his son, Thomas Ferdinand Walker (1831-1921) to patent the first Walker log of many. Together, with the introduction of the A1 Harpoon Log two years later, they established the Walker Log Business as a force to be reckoned with. By the time of his passing in 1871, Thomas Walker Snr had not only founded a family business with considerable staying power but also instilled a tradition of public service. Having sat as a representative on the Birmingham Town Council for 15 years and played an active role in public works, he was soon given the nickname of ‘Blue Brick Walker’. Much like his father, Thomas Ferdinand Walker changed the face of the maritime industry. His patent of 1897, the ‘Cherub’ log, was a notable departure from the past providing a far more accurate reading and replacing the majority of logs of the age. They were the first to produce an electric log and the Walker factory was one of the first to introduce the 48 hour work week for employees. This ship log rotor was invented and made by a significant marine instrument maker and innovator of machinery. It demonstrates the huge leap taken to improve navigational accuracy at sea with an instrument that was in use for decades and still is today. Therefore it is a worthy addition to the Flagstaff Maritime collection as it demonstrates another aspect of maritime navigation.A Walkers Cherub III Patent mechanical ship brass rotor with with four vane's one marked with an anchor and "T. W. Cherub 441", The log is attached to a brass swivel with a short length of rope. Has T W Cherub 441 marked on a vane.flagstaff hill, warrnambool, shipwrecked-coast, flagstaff-hill, flagstaff-hill-maritime-museum, maritime-museum, shipwreck-coast, flagstaff-hill-maritime-village, log rotor, taffrail log, thomas walker, marine technology, marine instrument, navigation, ship speed, measurment

In 1888 it was reported in "Victoria and its Metropolis" that John Fletcher carried on the business of a manufacturer of aerated waters, cordials, hop bitters, etc. in Warrnambool, and traded throughout the Western District. The establishment was started by a Mr. J. Davis with whom Mr. Fletcher was connected from its commencement, and whom he succeeded in 1885. His business continued until 1930. The Warrnambool and District Historical Society has a collection of bottles used by John Fletcher to contain his products. These labels are significant as John Fletcher was a most successful manufacturer of cordials and aerated waters in Warrnambool in the late 1800s and early 1900s .1 Buff coloured rectangular card label with black text. 2 Rectangular label with curved top adhered to a piece of white paper. It is coloured red, blue black and gold and features two standards and text. .3 Rectangular label with curved top adhered to the reverse of .2. It is coloured red and green and features a sketch of Punch carrying a bowl of a steaming substance and text .4 Rectangular label with curved top adhered to a piece of white paper. It is coloured red, apricot, dark and light blue, gold and black. It features the linked initials JF, two standards a trade mark and text .5 Rectangular label with curved top adhered to the reverse of .4 It is coloured red, blue, green, black and gold. It features two standards and text. .6 Identical to .3 but not adhered to paper .7,.8, .9 .10 White rectangular labels with red text. .9 has a damaged corner. .10 is adhered to a piece of white paper. .11,.12,.13,.14,.15..16 Red rectangular labels with black text and a coat of arms. .13 is adhered to a piece of pink card, .17 Blue rectangular label with text and a coat of arms .1 FROM J. FLETCHER, WARRNAMBOOL Manufacturer of Aerated Waters, Soda, Lithia and Tonic Waters, Lemonade, Ginger Ale, Hop beer, Hop Bitters, Sarsaparilla and all Cordials .2 SUPERIOR CONCENTATED COMPOUND EXTRACT OF SARSAPARILLA PREPARED FROM THE BEST RED ROOT OF JAMAICA SARSAPARILLA J. FLETCHER,WARRNAMBOOL .3 HOT CHILLIE PUNCH J. FLETCHER WARRNAMBOOL Approximately 26 Oz. .4 UNION TRADE MARK JOHN FLETCHER WARRNAMBOOL HOP BITTERS EXTRACTED FROM THE FLOWER .5 J FLETCHER WARRNAMBOOL SUPERIOR GREEN COLOURED WITH BURNT SUGAR GINGER CORDIAL .6 Identical to .3 .7,.8,.9,.10 ASK FOR XXX HOP A1 BEER J FLETCHER WARRNAMBOOL .11,.12,.13.14,.15.16 SODA WATER J Fletcher .17 LITHIA WATER J FLETCHER WARRNAMBOOL john fletcher, warnambool, cordials

13 April 1972. Bendigo Says Good-bye to the Trams. A1 sheet - double sided. Tramway history 1890 - 1972, 2 copies. At the stroke of 5 pm from Eaglehawk Town Hall clock 82 years of history will end as the last tram makes its sentimental journey to the city, while at the Bendigo Cemetery - the Quarry Hill line terminus - another tram will be leaving for its last resting place. Other articles include: Four Eras, of trams. The Trammies, covering Ballarat, Geelong in the form of a poem. 1927 and all that, by Basil Miller, remembering his 45 years of service with the trams. How it all started, The twin communities of Sandhurst and Eaglehawk were relatively early in considering the possibility of operating street tramways within their boundaries. Cabs, Battery Cars, Construction, Strikes, Bendigo 1890 to 1972 - Tramways. Man and his Mates, continued from previous page, Explosion, Touchy Task, A Quickey, Horrors. Electric in 1903, There was excitement galore in the City during April, 1903 - and the Advertiser recorded the progress of the new-fangled electric machine. One man's Memories, Tough times, humour, tragedy and comradeship - they all came flooding back as former Bendigo tramway-man Tom Griffiths recently turned the clock back. Keb Sir Keb Sir? 'Keg sir? Tram off the line,' was the call of the cabbies when a train pulled in at the Bendigo railway station. Altered Shopping Trend, With advent of the electric tram in Bendigo came change in shopping habits.bendigo trams

The Excelsior IV Log is a nautical instrument for measuring a vessel’s speed and distance travelled. When navigating a ship it is essential to be able to estimate the boat’s speed and distance travelled to determine its position at sea. In times past the only way to measure a ship’s speed was to throw a wood log into the water and observe how fast it moved away from the ship. In the 16th century, the log was fastened to a rope knotted at set intervals. The log was thrown over the stern (back) of the vessel and a crew member counted the number of knots that were paid out in a set time. From this, they could estimate the speed of the vessel through the water. This was known as streaming the log and is also the derivation of the knot as a measurement of nautical speed. The Walker’s Excelsior Mark IV instrument was designed for smaller vessels, such as yachts, launches and fishing vessels. Historical: Thomas Walker & Son was internationally renowned in the manufacturing of ships logs, founding father , Thomas Walker (1805–1871), an engineer in Birmingham, patented a mechanical log in 1878 which was a recording instrument that attached to a rail at the stern of a vessel connected by a long cord with a rotor which was towed behind the ship. The instrument dial recorded the distance travelled. Thomas Walker first went into business to manufacture stoves at 58 Oxford Street Birmingham. Walker’s self-feeding stove was widely lauded at the Paris Exhibition of 1855, winning a prize medal and kick starting the first of many notable innovations for the Walker family's manufacturing business. However, it wasn’t until working on an earlier ship’s log model invented by his Uncle that Thomas Walker became interested in the further development of this device, used to ascertain a ship’s speed. Walker continued to improve on the common log for the company of Massey & Sons and these improvements were deemed revolutionary. This log became a firm favourite of the West India Association (British-based organisation promoting ties and trade with the British Caribbean), being the most common log in use for two generations. It took until 1861 for Thomas Walker and his son, Thomas Ferdinand Walker (1831-1921) to patent the first Walker log of many. Together, with the introduction of the A1 Harpoon Log two years later, they established the Walker Log Business as a force to be reckoned with. By the time of his passing in 1871, Thomas Walker Snr had not only founded a family business with considerable staying power but also instilled a tradition of public service. Having sat as a representative on the Birmingham Town Council for 15 years and played an active role in public works, he was soon given the nickname of ‘Blue Brick Walker’. Much like his father, Thomas Ferdinand Walker changed the face of the maritime industry. His patent of 1897, the ‘Cherub’ log, was a notable departure from the past providing a far more accurate reading and replacing the majority of logs of the age. They were the first to produce an electric log and the Walker factory was one of the first to introduce the 48 hour work week for employees. The ship log was invented and made by a significant marine instrument maker and innovator of machinery. It demonstrates the huge leap taken to improve navigational accuracy at sea with an instrument that was in use for decades.Ship's Taff Rail Log, rope attached. Walker's Excelsior IV Log model. Nautical miles dials: units and 10's. "Walker's Excelsior IV Log", "Made in England by Thomas Walker, Birmingham"flagstaff hill, warrnambool, shipwrecked-coast, flagstaff-hill, flagstaff-hill-maritime-museum, maritime-museum, shipwreck-coast, flagstaff-hill-maritime-village, log register, taff rail log, taffrail log, marine navigation, a1 harpoon log, cherub’ log, walker’s excelsior mark iv log, ship’s log instrument, mechanical ship’s log, measure ship’s speed, nautical instrument, navigation instrument, massey & sons, thomas walker, blue brick walker, thomas walker & son, thomas ferdinand walker, 48 hour work week

In times past the only way to measure a ship’s speed was to throw a wood log into the water and observe how fast it moved away from the ship. In the 16th century, the log was fastened to a rope knotted at set intervals. The log was thrown over the stern (back) of the vessel and a crew member counted the number of knots that were paid out in a set time. From this, they could estimate the vessel's speed through the water. This was known as streaming the log and is also the derivation of the knot as a measurement of nautical speed. Various manufacturers of nautical equipment had sought over the years to perfect the operation of determining a ship's speed and it wasn't until Thomas Walker and his son Ferdinand developed a mechanical system that eventually made this task became easy for marine navigators. Thomas Walker & Son were internationally renowned in the manufacturing of ship logs the founding father, Thomas Walker (1805–1871), an engineer in Birmingham, patented his mechanical log in 1878 which was a recording instrument that attached to a rail at the stern of a vessel connected by a long cord with a rotor which was towed behind the ship. The instrument dial then recorded the distance travelled. Thomas Walker first went into business to manufacture stoves at 58 Oxford Street Birmingham. Walker’s self-feeding stove was widely lauded at the Paris Exhibition of 1855, winning a prize medal and kickstarting the first of many notable innovations for the Walker family's manufacturing business. However, it wasn’t until working on an earlier ship’s log model invented by his Uncle that Thomas Walker became interested in the further development of this device, used to ascertain a ship’s speed. Walker continued to improve on the common log for the company of Massey & Sons and these improvements were deemed revolutionary. This log became a firm favourite of the West India Association (a British-based organisation promoting ties and trade with the British Caribbean), being the most common log in use for two generations. It took until 1861 for Thomas Walker and his son, Thomas Ferdinand Walker (1831-1921) to patent the first Walker log of many. Together, with the introduction of the A1 Harpoon Log two years later, they established the Walker Log Business as a force to be reckoned with. By his passing in 1871, Thomas Walker Snr had not only founded a family business with considerable staying power but also instilled a tradition of public service. Having sat as a representative on the Birmingham Town Council for 15 years and played an active role in public works, he was soon given the nickname of ‘Blue Brick Walker’. Much like his father, Thomas Ferdinand Walker changed the face of the maritime industry. His patent of 1897, the ‘Cherub’ log, was a notable departure from the past providing a far more accurate reading and replacing the majority of logs of the age. They were the first to produce an electric log (Trident) and the Walker factory was one of the first to introduce the 48-hour work week for employees.The ship log was invented and made by a significant marine instrument maker and innovator of machinery. It demonstrates the huge leap taken to improve navigational accuracy at sea with an instrument that was in use for decades.Ships Log, Walker Trident electric motor, in wooden box with instructions inside box. The motor dial with electric cord is still inside box.Inscription "Admiralty patent number 3332" and "Walker Trident Electric Ship Log (Mark III), 15-25 volt". On top of lid, hand written, is "G TAYLOR"flagstaff hill, warrnambool, shipwrecked-coast, flagstaff-hill, flagstaff-hill-maritime-museum, maritime-museum, shipwreck-coast, flagstaff-hill-maritime-village, ships log, thomas walker & son, electric ships log, marine navigation, thomas ferdinand walker, ship log

The ship's log part, called a fish, is likely to be from a mechanical taffrail log system. It was recovered from the wreck site of the barque, the 1840-1852 Grange. There are no marks on the fish to identify its maker or model. It is part of the John Chance Collection. This ‘fish’ is part of an early to mid-1800s ship's log. It would likely have been part of a taffrail log connected to a rotor (also called propeller, spinner) by a strong line, and the other end connected by a line to a dial mounted on the taffrail, or stern rail, at the stern of the vessel. As the propeller rotated through the water it would spin the log, which in turn would cause a number to register on the dial, showing the current speed in knots; one knot equals one nautical mile per hour. TAFFRAIL LOGS A taffrail log is a nautical instrument used for measuring the speed of a vessel, providing vital navigational information to be calculated, such as location and direction. A log has been used to measure the speed of a vessel since the 1500s. A simple piece of wood was tied to a long line and thrown into sea at the back of the vessel. The rope was knotted all along at equal distances apart. On a given signal the log line was pulled back into the vessels, the knots counted until the log came up, then the figures were calculated by a navigator In 1802 the first successful mechanical log available for general use was invented by Edward Massey. It had a rotor 'V' section connected to a recording mechanism. The water’s movement rotated the rotor, which intern sent the movement to the recorder. There are examples of this invention available to see in some of the maritime museums. Thomas Walker, nephew of Edward Massey, improved on Massey’s design, and Walker and his son took out a patent on the A1 Harpoon Log. In 1861. Both Massey and Walker continued to improve the designs of the taffrail log. New designs were still being introduced, even up to the 1950s. THE GRANGE, 1840-1858- The wooden barque ’Grange’ was a three-masted ship built in Scotland in 1840 for international and coastal trade. On March 22, 1858, the Grange set sail from Melbourne under Captain A. Alexander, carrying a cargo of ballast. The barque had left the Heads of Phillip Bay and was heading west along the Victorian coast towards Cape Otway. The ship struck Little Haley’s Reef at Apollo Bay due to a navigational error and was stuck on the rocks. The crew left the ship carrying whatever they could onto the beach. Eventually, the remains of the hull, sails and fittings were salvaged before the wreck of the Grange broke up about a month later. About 110 years later, in 1968, the wreck of the Grange was found by divers from the Underwater Explorers Club of Victoria. They were amazed to find a unique, six to nine pound carronade (type of small cannon) and a cannonball on the site. There have been no other similar carronades recorded. In that same year the anchor of the Grange was recovered by diver John Chance and Mal Brown. The ship’s log is significant historically as an example of hardware used when building wooden ships in the early to mid-19th century. The ship’s log is historically significant as an example of the work and trade of blacksmith. The ship’s log also has significant as it was recovered by John Chance, a diver from the wreck of the Grange in the 1968. Items that come from several wrecks along Victoria's coast have since been donated to the Flagstaff Hill Maritime Village’s museum collection by his family, illustrating this item’s level of historical value. The ship’s log is historically significant for its association with the 1840s wooden barque, the Grange. The Grange is an historical example of a Scottish built vessel used for international and coastal trader of both cargo and passengers in the mid-19th century. The Grange is an example of an early ship, designed with a wooden hull. It is significant as a ship still available to divers along the south coast of Victoria, for research and education purposes. The Grange is an example of a mid-19th century vessel that carried a weapon of defence onboard. Ship log fitting, called a fish; part of a brass navigational instrument, likely to be from a taffrail log. The metal is a tan colour and has rough surface with a sheen, and discolouration in places. Its basic shape is a hollow cylinder with ends tapering to a smaller size. In the centre there are opposing openings cut out, showing a rough texture inside. One end on the cylinder is closed with a ring and shank installed, fixed by an embedded screw through the end of the cylinder. There are no inscriptions.flagstaff hill, warrnambool, flagstaff hill maritime museum, maritime museum, shipwreck coast, flagstaff hill maritime village, great ocean road, west coast trader, apollo bay, mid-19th century shipwreck, the grange, scottish barque, little henty reef, captain a alexander, underwater explorers club of victoria, vhr 5297, coastal trader, wooden shipwreck, john chance, wooden ship, taffrail log, marine instrument, marine technology, navigation, nautical instrument, mechanical log, nautical navigation, navigation equipment, scientific instrument, ship log, ship log register, ship speed, taff rail log, patent log, towed log, taffrail log fish, edward massey, thomas walker

Folder - heavy red covers with two screw sets containing a photocopy of a report by William Pollock, prepared after the closure of the cable tram system titled ""The Melbourne Cable Tramway System". Image numbers listed: Folder – htd4715i1 Inside of folder – htd4715i2.jpg Report –Photocopy of a 14 foolscap sheets, paper titled “The Melbourne Cable Tramway System” by William Pollock, describing the system in detail, listing 26 appendices. Has notes on each Power Station, including a table of opening, closing, power produced and cables, fuel, permanent way (track), cables, underground gear, tunnels, flooding and the grip. Image – htd4714i3.pdf Appendix 1 – Handwritten table “Cost the Melbourne Tramway System” – photocopied special size sheet folded. See image htd4715i4.jpg 2 – Drawing – Typical Power House layout - image htd4715i5.jpg 3 – Drawing – Head of Cable Driver – htd4715i6.jpg 4 – Drawing – Rope Drive – htd4715i7.jpg 5 – Photocopy of a Fuel and Water test sheet for the Esplanade Power House – two sheets – 14/5/1918 – htd4715i8.jpg and htd4715i9.jpg 6 – Section of Cable Tram track – htd4715i10.jpg 7 – Tar Burner used by MTOC 1893 – 1900 - htd4715i11.jpg 8 – Yoke Bracket for line drums – A1 Pulley – htd4715i12.jpg 9 – Tunnel Yoke – htd4715i13.jpg 10 – Elevating Wheel or Pulley with shield plate – htd4715i14.jpg 11 – Curve Pulleys, curve drum and rubbing bar – 2 sheets – htd4715i15.jpg and htd4715i16.jpg 12 – Curve or Conical drum – htd4715i17.jpg 13 – Cable Separating pulley or cone line drum – htd4715i18.jpg 14 – Yoke Pulley or General Pulley – htd4715i19.jpg 15 – Yoke Bracket for Drums – htd4715i20.jpg 16 – Automatic Switch Gear – htd4715i21.jpg 17 – Hand operated switch gear – htd4715i22.jpg 18 – Hand pickup – htd4715i23.jpg 19 & 20 – Photo of bunched strands and damaged cable – htd4715i24 21 – Diagram of Rope – Clarendon St Rope No. 41 – htd4715i25.jpg 22 – Strand Alarm – htd4715i26.jpg 23 – Rope History – two sheets – htd4715i27 and htd4715i28.jpg 24 – Rope Splice – htd4715i29.jpg 25 – Cable Grip – htd4715i30.jpg 26 – Crown Pulley – two sheets – htd4715i30 and htd4715i31trams, tramways, drawings, tramcars, cable trams, trackwork, mto co, reports

Folder containing information pertaining to the history of Glen Park homestead, Menzies Creek. Contents: -two pages photocopied from "That Little Train" by Peter Cuffley, showing four photos of Glen Park homestead and a short history of Edwin Johns at Glen Park (2 copies of each) -articles, "No. 861's full steam ahead again", photo shows Col Rees with Coonara Community School students, and "Living the dream" re. engine no. 861. On verso, "A Family Reunited", article by Emerald Tourist Railway re. locomotives, and "Colin just loves steam locomotion" re. engine no. 861. -4 letters, from Puffing Billy Railway, in support of Col Rees. -Letter, dated 19 June 1996, from Emerald Tourist Railway, re. appeal for restoration of Garratt engine. On verso, copy of certificate awarded to Col Rees for donation to appeal. -Letter, 1 June 1998, re. Garrett appeal. On verso, certificate awarded to Col & Kellie Rees for donation to appeal. -Aerial photo showing proposed property boundaries of Glen Park subdivision. -Aerial photo showing existing property boundaries of Glen Park. NB. last four items provided to society by Col Rees in support of subdivision. -Memorandum dated 2 May 2000 from Graham Whitt, Shire of Yarra Ranges, to Shire Service Centres, re proposed division of Glen Park land. -Fax, dated 13 June 2000, from Southern Sherbrooke Historical Society to Shire of Yarra Ranges, re. intention to make submission. -Letter, dated 14 June 2000, acknowledging receipt of above fax. -Submission, dated 18 June 2000, from Southern Sherbrooke HS, expressing concern re. proposed subdivision of Glen Park. -Fax, dated 27 June 2000, from Dianne Kueffer to Susan Heywood-Downard, Agenda Item 2 of the Yarra Ranges Planning Committee Agenda 14 March 2000, including detailed description of proposed subdivision and map. -Letter, dated 7 July 2000, Shire to Society, re. discussion of Glen Park subdivision by council. -Letter, dated 7 July 2000, Society to Shire, re. withdrawal of objection subject to certain conditions. -Letter, dated 14 July 2000, Shire to Society, re. council resolution to allow subdivision of Glen Park. -Letter, dated 24 October 2000, Shire to Society, stating that amendment to Planning Scheme allowing subdivision was approved by council and gazetted on 19 October 2000. -seven A3 sheets, showing house and property plans for new constructions proposed for Lot 1 of Glen Park subdivision. -diagram, hand-drawn (by Col Rees?) on lined A4 sheet, showing proposed development. -A1 sheet, Plan of feature survey of Lot 2 Blackhill Rd, Selby, dated 12 April 2000, showing contours, vegetation, proposed location of buildings, etc. -Glen Park Homestead and Cyprus Avenue, document prepared for the Shire Of Yarra Ranges by Helen Lardner Conservation & Design P/L, June 2003edwin johns, breen family, col & kellie rees, puffing billy

In March 2024, Milissa Box (DTP) was at a trash and treasure market. She'd found a $5 photo album for sale with some photos that she thought might be of interest… From what I can gather it belonged to the gentleman pictured who was a worker at Dandenong in the Comeng and ABB eras. He appears to have worked on the Z3, A1/A2, B1/B2 class trams, Hong Kong LRVs, Comeng Melbourne suburban trains, and later the extra Victorian-purchased XP power cars and XAM sleepers to enable the Riverina XPT to be extended to Melbourne. It's clear he was very proud of the vehicles he'd helped to build. I have scanned a selection of the images, which appear to be a mix of official builder's portraits, team photos, and self-taken shots showing candid everyday scenes on the shop floor. There are also images of the launch of the XP power cars with then-Victorian Premier Joan Kirner; and some personal visits to see the Flying Scotsman, Victorian Goldfields Railway, Coal Creek, etc. Filename Description Date Comeng Scans 2024-03-05 0001 Three Comeng workers (including the photographer) stand in front of Comeng suburban train 697M (Chopper unit) c. June-July 1989 Comeng Scans 2024-03-05 0002 Three Comeng workers (including the photographer) stand in front of Comeng suburban train 697M (Chopper unit) c. June-July 1989 Comeng Scans 2024-03-05 0003 Hong Kong Light Rail Phase 1 LRV 1013 being lifted onto its transport loader c. 1987-88 Comeng Scans 2024-03-05 0004 Walter Wright transport truck (Mack) waits to draw a heavy transport platform out of a shed at Comeng Dandenong. Hong Kong Phase I LRV (1024) can be seen inside the shed c. 1988 Comeng Scans 2024-03-05 0005 Hong Kong Light Rail Phase 1 LRV 1013 on its transport loader in a shed at Comeng Dandenong ready for transport c. 1988 Comeng Scans 2024-03-05 0006 Hong Kong Light Rail Phase 1 LRV 1013 on its transport loader in a shed at Comeng Dandenong ready for transport c. 1988 Comeng Scans 2024-03-05 0007 The photographer is pictured fitting components to the cab of a Phase I Hong Kong LRV No 1026 c. 1988 Comeng Scans 2024-03-05 0008 Hong Kong Light Rail Phase 1 LRV 1013 on its transport loader at Comeng Dandenong ready for transport c. 1988 Comeng Scans 2024-03-05 0009 Hong Kong Light Rail Phase 1 LRV 1013 on its transport loader at Comeng Dandenong ready for transport c. 1988 Comeng Scans 2024-03-05 0010 Hong Kong Light Rail Phase 1 LRV 1013 on its transport loader at Comeng Dandenong ready for transport c. 1988 Comeng Scans 2024-03-05 0011 The photographer and a colleague are pictured in the car park posing for a photo at Comeng Dandenong c. 1988 Comeng Scans 2024-03-05 0012 The photographer and a colleague are pictured inside the cab of Comeng suburban train 697M, posing for a photo at Comeng Dandenong c. 1989 Comeng Scans 2024-03-05 0013 A stainless steel Hitachi train bodyshell is being transported on a truck-trailer. Possibly taken at Martin and King in Bayswater, under transport to the station for railing to Somerton for fitout. This is a later series M car with the rear-mounted pantograph (note the mounting lugs above the non-driving end) c. 1980 Comeng Scans 2024-03-05 0014 A shot at Comeng Dandenong of the onsite workforce standing in front of a Phase I Hong Kong LRV. c.1987-88 Comeng Scans 2024-03-05 0015 A shot at Comeng Dandenong of the onsite workforce standing in front of a Phase I Hong Kong LRV. c.1987-88 Comeng Scans 2024-03-05 0016 Hong Kong Light Rail Phase 1 LRV 1038 on its transport loader at Port of Melbourne ready for transport c. 1988 Comeng Scans 2024-03-05 0017 Three Comeng workers (including the photographer) stand in front of a workbench at Comeng Dandenong c. June-July 1989 Comeng Scans 2024-03-05 0018 A newly completed Comeng train (wearing VicRail teacup orange) on the factory access track at Comeng Dandenong c. 1981 Comeng Scans 2024-03-05 0019 A newly completed Z3 class tram on a transporter, with its bogie frames waiting transport to Preston Workshops for final fitout and commissioning c. 1981 Comeng Scans 2024-03-05 0020 A newly completed Comeng train (wearing VicRail teacup orange) on the factory access track at Comeng Dandenong c. 1981 Comeng Scans 2024-03-05 0021 A newly completed Z3 class tram on a transporter, with its bogie frames waiting transport to Preston Workshops for final fitout and commissioning c. 1981 Comeng Scans 2024-03-05 0022 A Comeng/ABB artist impression presumably part of their bid for the Double Decker demonstrator train for Melbourne. Note the similarity to similar Comeng sets constructed for Sydney. c. Nov 1989 – April 1990 Comeng Scans 2024-03-05 0023 Victorian Railways steam locomotive K 169 on static display at Coal Creek. c. 1980s Comeng Scans 2024-03-05 0024 Comeng suburban train carriage 1190T on a traverser in the yard at Comeng Dandenong. c. June-July 1989 Comeng Scans 2024-03-05 0025 Comeng suburban train carriages the yard at Comeng Dandenong. c. June-July 1989 Comeng Scans 2024-03-05 0026 Comeng suburban train carriages the yard at Comeng Dandenong. c. June-July 1989 Comeng Scans 2024-03-05 0027 Comeng suburban train carriages the yard at Comeng Dandenong. c. June-July 1989 Comeng Scans 2024-03-05 0028 Comeng suburban train carriages the yard at Comeng Dandenong. c. June-July 1989 Comeng Scans 2024-03-05 0029 Comeng suburban train in a shed at Comeng Dandenong. c. June-July 1989 Comeng Scans 2024-03-05 0030 Comeng suburban train carriage 1190T on a traverser in the yard at Comeng Dandenong – possible Factory Acceptance Inspection by the Met c. June-July 1989 Comeng Scans 2024-03-05 0031 Comeng suburban train carriage 1190T being tractor-shunted in the yard at Comeng Dandenong – possible Factory Acceptance Inspection by the Met c. June-July 1989 Comeng Scans 2024-03-05 0032 Two Comeng workers carry a train part (possibly a first aid kit) for fitting to a Comeng suburban train. c. June-July 1989 Comeng Scans 2024-03-05 0033 Comeng suburban train carriage 1190T on a traverser in the yard at Comeng Dandenong – possible Factory Acceptance Inspection by the Met. One of the Met staff appears to be giving one of the Comeng workers a kiss on the cheek. c. June-July 1989 Comeng Scans 2024-03-05 0034 A B2 Class tram is on a low-loader multiwheel transport trailer waiting transport to Preston Workshops; while what appears to be a classic AP6 Valiant Safari Wagon is in the foreground. c. June-July 1989 Comeng Scans 2024-03-05 0035 A B2 Class tram is on a low-loader multiwheel transport trailer waiting transport to Preston Workshops; while a worker poses for a photo with his hand on the rigging. c. June-July 1989 Comeng Scans 2024-03-05 0036 A B2 Class tram is on a low-loader multiwheel transport trailer waiting transport to Preston Workshops; An HT Holden Belmont sedan has been posed in front to appear as if it is towing the heavy vehicle. c. June-July 1989 Comeng Scans 2024-03-05 0037 A B2 Class tram is on a low-loader multiwheel transport trailer waiting transport to Preston Workshops; An HT Holden Belmont sedan has been posed in front to appear as if it is towing the heavy vehicle. c. June-July 1989 Comeng Scans 2024-03-05 0038 A1 Class tram 232 is pictured up on stands while various A/B class tram cab frames are in the foreground in various stages of assembly. Of note, 232 appears to have been returned to Dandenong for major repair or other work, and shows signs of having been in traffic for some time (weathering and wear) c. June-July 1989 Comeng Scans 2024-03-05 0039 various A/B class tram cab frames are in the foreground in various stages of assembly. c. June-July 1989 Comeng Scans 2024-03-05 0040 A group of Comeng Dandenong workers stopped on a tea break. c. June-July 1989 Comeng Scans 2024-03-05 0041 An A/B Class tram cab being fitted out with electronics and controls. c. June-July 1989 Comeng Scans 2024-03-05 0042 A new Comeng suburban train in Metropolitan Transit livery on the test track at Comeng Dandenong. c. mid 1980s Comeng Scans 2024-03-05 0043 A new Comeng suburban train in Metropolitan Transit livery on the test track at Comeng Dandenong. c. mid 1980s Comeng Scans 2024-03-05 0044 Interior shot of a new Comeng suburban train at Comeng Dandenong. c. mid 1980s Comeng Scans 2024-03-05 0045 Interior shot of a new Comeng suburban train at Comeng Dandenong. c. mid 1980s Comeng Scans 2024-03-05 0046 The exterior sign at Dandenong showing ABB brand. Early 1990s Comeng Scans 2024-03-05 0047 A B2 Class tram is on a low-loader multiwheel transport trailer waiting transport to Preston Workshops. Early 1990s Comeng Scans 2024-03-05 0048 The Brush generator and Paxman Valenta engine as fitted inside a new XP power car for NSW Countrylink (paid for by Victoria) c. 1992 Comeng Scans 2024-03-05 0049 An exterior shot of a new Countrylink XP power car for NSW under construction (paid for by Victoria) c. 1992 Comeng Scans 2024-03-05 0050 Two new XAM class XPT sleeper carriages under construction at Comeng Dandenong c. 1992 Comeng Scans 2024-03-05 0051 A B2 class tram under construction at Comeng Dandenong Early 1990s Comeng Scans 2024-03-05 0052 A B2 class tram under construction at Comeng Dandenong Early 1990s Comeng Scans 2024-03-05 0053 An exterior shot of a new Countrylink XP power car for NSW being moved out of the shed c. 1992 Comeng Scans 2024-03-05 0054 An exterior shot of a new Countrylink XP power car at Comeng Dandenong c. 1992 Comeng Scans 2024-03-05 0055 An exterior shot of a new Countrylink XP power car at Comeng Dandenong c. 1992 Comeng Scans 2024-03-05 0056 An exterior shot of a new Countrylink XP power car at Comeng Dandenong c. 1992 Comeng Scans 2024-03-05 0057 B2 class trams under construction at Comeng Dandenong Early 1990s Comeng Scans 2024-03-05 0058 An XP Powercar from NSW wearing the Intercity XPT Candy Livery at Comeng Dandenong. It is not known if this was originally painted in this livery (incorrectly) or if this was one of the first delivered series transported to Dandenong to aid the construction process of the four additional locomotives. Early 1990s Comeng Scans 2024-03-05 0059 Melbourne B2 Class tram B2.2100 (renumbered from 2102) painted in the distinctive Chocolate and Cream livery to mark the completion of 100 B2 class trams Early 1990s Comeng Scans 2024-03-05 0060 A factory forklift wearing a hand painted “We love Labo(u)r” cardboard sign, possibly in connection to a media event with the Victorian Premier onsite at Comeng Dandenong. c. 1992 Comeng Scans 2024-03-05 0061 An exterior shot of a new Countrylink XP power car at Comeng Dandenong c. 1992 Comeng Scans 2024-03-05 0062 Two new new Countrylink XP power cars under construction and final fitout at Comeng Dandenong c. 1992 Comeng Scans 2024-03-05 0063 An exterior shot of a new Countrylink XP power car on the traverser at Comeng Dandenong c. 1992 Comeng Scans 2024-03-05 0064 A B2 Class tram is on a low-loader multiwheel transport trailer waiting transport to Preston Workshops. A large banner is draped on the side explaining that this is the 106th vehicle delivered to the Public Transport Corporation (B2.2108). c. Oct 1992 (based on delivery date) Comeng Scans 2024-03-05 0065 Victorian Premier Joan Kirner addresses a group of dignitaries in front of an ABB banner inside the main administration building at Dandenong, on the occasion of the first XPT power car purchased by Victoria being unveiled at a media event c. 1992 Comeng Scans 2024-03-05 0066 An ABB executive addresses a group of dignitaries in front of an ABB banner inside the main administration building at Dandenong, on the occasion of the first XPT power car purchased by Victoria being unveiled at a media event c. 1992 Comeng Scans 2024-03-05 0067 Victorian Premier Joan Kirner addresses the media in front of a completed XP class XPT power car at Dandenong, on the occasion of the first XPT power car purchased by Victoria being unveiled at a media event c. 1992 Comeng Scans 2024-03-05 0068 An exterior shot of a new Countrylink XP power car at Comeng Dandenong c. 1992 Comeng Scans 2024-03-05 0069 A Melbourne B2 class tram undergoing testing on the test circuit at ABB Dandenong c. early 1990s Comeng Scans 2024-03-05 0070 An XPlorer type DMU emerges from a shed at ABB Dandenong c.1994 Comeng Scans 2024-03-05 0071 Voith final drive axle mounted units for XPlorer railcars waiting to be fitted at Dandenong. c.1994 Comeng Scans 2024-03-05 0072 A completed XAM class sleeper carriage at ABB Dandenong. c.1993 Comeng Scans 2024-03-05 0073 Completed XPlorer railcars wait transfer to South Dynon for bogie exchange and transfer to NSW at ABB Dandenong. c. 1994 Comeng Scans 2024-03-05 0074 A clipping from an ABB internal newsletter outlining the staff-led initiative to commemorate the 100th B2 class tram with a special livery c.1992 Has photographs of ABB, Steamrail tours, Castlemaine and Maldon Railway, Fying Scotsman 4472 visit and Puffing Billy.Yields information about the people and events at Commonwealth Engineering plant Dandenong and the activities of the unknown compiler.Album containing 40 leaves, photos in a heavy card 3 ring spring binder.comeng, commonwealth engineering co., tramcars, hong kong, nsw, sydney, melbourne, railways, the met, b class, cmr, steam engines, abb, asea brown boveri

Black and white photographs - 2 copiesTyped below photograph, "Boiler explosion at Ringwood station 20/6/1894. Heard in Box Hill". Article from newspapers:- Weekly Times (Melbourne, Vic. : 1869 - 1954), Saturday 27 January 1894, page 21 Official enquiry. The Board of Enquiry appointed by the Railway Commissioners to enquire into the causes of the boiler explosion which shattered the locomotive at Ringwood on Saturday night, assembled at the Railway department on Wednesday to commence its deliberations, The board consisted of Mr R. Fulton, engineer, C. W. McLean; engineer to the Marine Board, and Mr Mephan Ferguson, iron-founder. There is some difficulty at the outset about the constitution of the board; It was suggested that the Apt of Parliament contemplated that boards of experts, after the manner of the present one, needed, to have their appointments confirmed by the Governor-in-Council. The point, however, was not considered sufficiently important to prevent the board from proceeding with evidence. Robert Greyford, stationmaster at Ringwood, was the first witness. He said he saw the explosion on Saturday night at about twenty minutes to 8. There was a rush to the engine to see what had happened, and the driver and fireman were both found on the platform of the engine. The driver seemed badly hurt, but the fireman, to all appearances, was not so badly injured. They were both attended to and sent up to Melbourne by the last suburban train. Witness had a look at the engine and found the dome and all the plates round the boiler blown clean, away. The springs were also blown clean away. The Chairman (Mr Fulton) : Did you measure the distance ? Witness: Yes; one of the plates was 209 yards away. A piece from the top of the boiler 15 pounds in weight he found driven into the hard beaten track 410 yards away. Several pieces of boiler plate were found scattered at various distances. The buildings roundabout were injured. The Chairman; Did you notice anything peculiar about either of the driver or the fireman ? — No ; nothing wrong, with either of them. If the engine was blowing off at all, it must have been very light. In your opinion, were they perfectly sober ? — Perfectly. In approaching the station, is there a down or an up grade? — A very slight down grade. How is the road from Healesville ? — Up and down all the way. It is down, grade for about 200 yards coming into Ringwood station. They shut off ; steam about a quarter of a mile away, and come in at a good pace. They generally put on 15 pounds of steam while they are in the station. Mr Ferguson : Had the driver the usual load on ? — Yes ; about the usual load. Witness added that he had known the driver personally for about 10 years, and he had always been a careful, steady, sober man. He did not know the fireman so well. John Palmer, porter at Ringwood station, also saw the explosion. He was attending to the train on its arrival. He was knocked down by the force of the explosion. When he got up he saw the engine driver being carried into the office covered in blood. He noticed nothing peculiar about the driver and fireman, nor about the engine. Mr McLean : How far were you from the engine when you were knocked down ? — From ten to fifteen yards. William Paul, the guard of the train to which the injured locomotive Was attached, said he was looking at the engine at the very moment the explosion occurred. It seemed to come from exactly under the dome. The force of it took him off his feet. He was about 15 yards from the tender. When he rose he tried to reach the engine, but could not do so on account of the steam and coal dust. He called out to know whether any of the passengers were injured, and got no response, so that he concluded they were all right. All the lamps but about half dozen were extinguished by the force of the explosion, although the glass was not broken. He could testify most distinctly that the driver and fireman were both sober. The driver was a man who never drank. The steam started to blow off about a minute and a half before the explosion took place. The last place at which the engine took water was Healesville. The Chairman : Do yon know anything of the quality of the water there ? Is it creek water ? — Yes ; it comes from the Graceburn River. You never heard of its quality ?— No. How long have you known this engine on the road— About 13 months. Hew long have you known the driver on this line ? — About six weeks. I have known the fireman several years. The driver was a strict teetotaller, and I never saw the fireman take anything to drink in his life. Mr T. H, Woodroffe, chief mechanical engineer of the Victorian Railways, produced a report he had written to the secretary, about this explosion. The document gave facts concerning the engine and the explosion. It stated that the rapture seemed to have occurred at the rim of the plates adjoining the fire box. The engine was built at the Phoenix Foundry, Ballarat, in 1883. It was repaired at various times, the last time being in July of last year when it was sent to the Port Melbourne shops, and was then tested to a cold water pressure of 195 and found all right. It was the custom to overhaul all locomotives about every five years. The Chairman : There were no very heavy repairs in July, 1893; were there? — Not to the boilers. The shop manager's report says that the plug and safety tap holes were repaired, five new copper studs put in firebox, ash-pan door repaired, tender cleaned and overhauled, and studs re-rivetted, and boiler tested to pressure of 195, cold water. Mr Woodroffe read the report of the repairs effected to the boiler in December, 1888. That would be the time the plate was put in the boiler. On that occasion three new plates were put in the bottom and the boiler tested up to 195. The Chairman: Do you keep a record of the water used ?— Yes, the water in this case, I think, came from the Maroondah scheme. Mr Woodroffe said boilers were examined front time to time in the running sheds. In his opinion every possible care had been taken to keep the engine in proper care. There might, however, be lessons learnt from this. The Chairman: No doubt. From his examination of the plates [the] witness did not think the state of them could have been detected from the outside. There were no signs of leakage or sweating or anything of that sort. The next witness- was Walter Stinton, workshop manager at Newport and he said that the injured engine had been repeatedly repaired under his charge. He gave a technical account of the repairs effected on various occasions. The testing of locomotives was under his special notice. They had a high pressure pipe running; round the works, and a pump set at 2001b. When the boiler was pumped full of water the pressure when applied up to 1951b. The board appointed by the department to inquire into the Ringwood locomotive boiler explosion sat again at Spencer street on 25th inst. Mr R. Fulton presided and the other members of the board were. Mr Mephan Ferguson and Mr C. W. McLean. Charles Grubb, foreman of the boiler-makers at the Newport workshops, said he had inspected the pieces of plate that had been blown out of the engine, and after examining them, pointed out to the Chief Mechanical Engineer the portion where the plate had started to burst. It was under the lap, on the right hand side of the boiler. The grooving might be accounted for by bad water. During the past twenty years he had examined all the boilers that came into the Williamstown workshops, and while some were hardly marked at all, others were very badly eaten away. The practice was to cut out the defective portions. In this case the boiler was repaired in a similar manner. The Chairman : Can you suggest any other way of repairing so as to prevent accident ? — No, unless by taking out a plate on one side from the joint, and carrying it further up so as to avoid the joints meeting, or by taking out the plate altogether. What would.be the cost .of putting in a new " plate I—Perhaps about double the price; but I wouldn't recommend that course. It would be putting a new plate against plates that have been in use ten years or so and that would not be advisable. I think the present system better. I consider the present system of repairing the best. This is the first we have had so bad like that, to my knowledge. You attributed this to bad water. Is there no other probable cause ? — Well; unless the iron be bad. This was Lowmoor iron. I think this accident was caused by the eating away of plates. This one was the worst I have seen, for the short time it had been running. We use three classes of iron — Lowmoor, Monkbridge and Bowling. By Mr Woodroffe (Chief Mechanical Engineer) ; There are engines still running that were repaired at the same time as this one, in 1888, and. in the same way. These are engines 339 and 333. They have been recently examined and are in splendid order. What in your experience, is the age of a boiler on the Victorian railways? — From 17 to 20 years our earlier boilers stood. The later boilers don't stand so well. How is that? — There is difference in construction, and the material is lighter. The old boilers had thicker plates. Have you been asked in any way to curtail boiler affairs? — No, sir; nor in any way. You have never hesitated to carry out any necessary repairs? — Never. Our orders have been to exercise every care in examining, repairing and renewing boilers. Witness said that his practice was when an engine came into the workshop to find out how long she had been running. If over five years, he informed the workshop manager, and they thought it necessary the tubes were taken nut. If everything was in good order witness reported to the manager. The cost of taking out the tubes and putting them in again was about L20. Mr Woodroffe : Have you ever hesitated to repair a boiler on the score of expense ? — No, never. Mr McLean : Hew do yon ascertain whether a boiler requires repairs?— I keep a record of every boiler examined. From every boiler that comes in I have the dome covers taken off, and when it is practical I get inside. l can almost tell from the top of a boiler what the bottom is like. If there is any doubt about it I have the tubes taken out. If I have suspicion of defective plate I cause to have bored a triangle in the plate at the point where there is the most wear. There is a travelling inspector who visits all the running sheds of the colony except Port Melbourne and tests the boilers. He reports to us and we note what he points out. Alfred Thompson, locomotive inspector of the eastern section, said he knew this engine, 297R. He read a list of her repairs. He heard of the accident on Saturday night and went up to Ringwood. The Chairman : Did you ever notice anything peculiar about the engine? — No, I considered her A1 and would not have hesitated to have put on 140lb pressure owing to the repairs she had undergone. Witness considered that the explosion was caused by the expansion and contraction of the plates ; and, no doubt, the plate had been eaten away through bad water. The other side of the boiler showed: signs of corrosion: By Mr Woodroffe ; Is every care taken with the boilers ? — Yes, every possible care is taken for the safety of boilers, Weekly Times (Melbourne, Vic. : 1869 - 1954), Saturday 27 January 1894, page 7 EXPLOSION OF A LOCOMOTIVE BOILER, NARROW ESACPE FROM FATALITIES. THE DAMAGED ENGINE. [See drawing of loco – saved in “Railways” folder] The explosion of a locomotive boiler at Ringwood on Saturday evening, formed the subject of much discussion in railway circles on Monday. The Minister arrived at the office at an unusually early hour and immediately entered into a consultation with the acting chairman, Mr Kibble, and Mr Commissioner Murray. As the result of the interview it was resolved to ask three gentlemen of acknowledged engineering experience to sib as a board with the . object of inquiring into the cause of the accident and furnishing a report. Mr Richardson and the Commissioners are tally seized of the importance of having a searching investigation into the accident, and, with Mr Murray, the former went to Ringwood to inspect the scene of the disaster. They will he accompanied by Mr Woodroffe. During the morning no official report had come to hand from the driver or fireman of the engine in reference to the accident, but that is thought to be due to the circumstance that they have not sufficiently recovered to be able to give a circumstantial account of what occurred. The engine was one of the old R's, and, Mr Kibble pronounced them to be about the best class of engines used. So far nothing can be said as to the probable cause of the accident, as the broken plating of the engine has not been submitted to the inspection of experts. Weekly Times (Melbourne, Vic. : 1869 - 1954), Saturday 27 January 1894, page 7 STATEMENT BY THE FIREMAN. This morning Thomas Miles, fireman on the engine the boiler of which exploded on Saturday night, is suffering from an injury to the spine, as well as a very severe shaking to the system. He states that he was fireman on the engine attached to the train which left Healesville on Saturday evening, at ten minutes to 8. Everything went all right until Ringwood was reached, when, .just as the train was about to continue its journey, a load explosion took place and Miles remembers nothing more until he was picked np on the platform ; and found himself suffering from a pain in the back, and an injury to his arm. He cannot think of any reason which could have caused the explosion, as there was plenty of water in the boiler, and everything seemed working all right. Mr R. Fulton, consulting engineer, of Queen street; Mr McLean, a member of the Marine Board ; and Mr Mephan Ferguson, engineer, have consented to act as a board to inquire into the cause of the engine boiler explosion at Ringwood on Saturday evening. The board has been appointed under section 117 of Act 1135, which provides that the Governor-in-Council may direct the taking of a such a step. Mr1 Fulton will act as chairman of the board, which met for the first time at the railway offices, Spencer street, this forenoon. Before separating the members of the Board paid a visit to the Prince's Bridge locomotive sheds in company with Mr Woodroffe, the chief mechanical engineer, for the purpose of inspecting the shattered boiler. It has been stated that the explosion is known to have been caused by a flaw in a plate which was put on the boiler about four years ago, but enquiries have tailed to elicit anything in support of that view. The engineers connected with the department are not inclined to say anything on the subject. Weekly Times (Melbourne, Vic. : 1869 - 1954), Saturday 14 April 1894, page 20 The Ringwood Boiler Explosion, The Minister of Railways has received the supplementary report of the board appointed by him to investigate the circumstances connected with the explosion of a locomotive boiler at Ringwood. In their first report the board did not attach blame to anyone. Mr Richardson felt satisfied that the responsibility of having the engines properly inspected and overhauled periodically could be fixed if the inquiry were extended. He therefore referred the matter again to the Board, who took further evidence. In the report now furnished, the Board hold Loco. Inspector Thompson blameable, but point out as a mitigating circumstance that he had not received "written instructions" respecting inspections and overhauls. Weekly Times (Melbourne, Vic. : 1869 - 1954), Saturday 7 July 1894, page 32 The Ringwood Boiler Explosion. The Minister of Railways takes exception to the tone of a paragraph appearing in a morning contemporary respecting the Ringwood boiler explosion. It makes it appear that Mr Richardson has referred the report of the board which considered the facts connected with the explosion to the Crown solicitor simply because he differed from the finding of the board. The Minister explains that when he received the report he found that the responsibility for having boilers properly inspected and overhauled had not been clearly fixed. He personally obtained farther evidence on that point, and arrived at a conclusion, from which the commissioners differed. As he did not like to take upon himself the responsibility of deciding upon the effect of the evidence, he submitted the matter to the Crown Solicitor, but that officer did not furnish him with the information sought. He has, therefore, referred the question to the Attorney-General, together with the draft of a regulation respecting boiler inspections and overhauls in the future. Mr Richardson says that his whole aim is to have the responsibility positively fixed. Weekly Times (Melbourne, Vic. : 1869 - 1954), Saturday 28 April 1894, page 23 The Minister of Railways has completed his consideration of the supplementary report received by him from the Ringwood Boiler Explosion Board. The report, it will be remembered, held Loco-Inspector Thompson blameable for the non-inspection of the boiler, but considered there was extenuating circumstances. There was a certain amount of doubt as to the absolute instructions given for overhauling engines periodically. Mr. Richardson is sending the report on to the Commissioners with instructions that the responsibility respecting inspection of boilers shall be made clear for the future.