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

Leather thicknessers like this were commonly used in leatherworking and saddlery to ensure uniform thickness in leather pieces before making belts, harnesses, saddles, or other leather goods. This design suggests it was hand-operated, requiring the user to feed leather through the adjustable gap while controlling the pressure with the lever. These tools were essential in workshops and tanneries, particularly in the 19th and early 20th centuries, before the advent of more mechanized skiving machines. From HODGES Saddlery, Natimuk.This is a vintage manually-operated leather thicknesser, used for skiving or adjusting the thickness of leather pieces. The tool consists of a wooden base with four mounting holes, likely for securing it to a workbench. A horizontal metal bar runs across the top, supported by two vertical posts, and is adjustable via two round-headed screws. The tool also features a curved lever handle on one side, which is used to adjust or apply pressure to the leather being processed. The metal components show signs of oxidation and rust, while the wooden base has a well-worn appearance, suggesting extensive use.leather thicknesser, functional item, tool, farm equipment, harness, horse equipment, saddlery, leather, commercial equipment

Ink duplicators, also known as mimeograph machines, were widely used in the late 19th to mid-20th century for producing multiple copies of documents. They were commonly used in schools, offices, and small businesses before the advent of photocopiers. The process involved creating a stencil, which was then placed on an inked drum or roller. As the drum rotated, the ink was pressed through the stencil onto paper, allowing for mass reproduction of handwritten or typed documents. These machines were an essential tool for low-cost printing before modern printing technology became widespread. This particular ink duplicator is stored in a wooden case, suggesting it might be a portable model used in fieldwork, education, or administration. Given its worn condition, it has likely seen extensive use over time. Original Shire of Arapiles Ink Duplicator brought to Mail Times by Mrs LAURNECE of Woore-YallockThe item is a vintage ink duplicator, housed in a wooden storage box with metal clasps. The box is rectangular and appears to be made of solid hardwood, possibly beech or oak. The exterior shows signs of wear, with visible scuff marks, scratches, and discoloration, indicating prolonged use and age.ink duplicator, photocopier, newspaper, printing, commercial equipment

Plow planes like this were widely used by woodworkers, cabinetmakers, and carpenters from the 18th to early 20th centuries for cutting grooves (plows) in wood to fit panels, joints, or decorative moldings. Before modern power tools, these hand planes were essential for precise joinery work in furniture making, cabinetry, and timber construction. The adjustable wooden rods allowed craftsmen to control the cutting width, making it a versatile tool for different woodworking applications. J BEDWORTH/BUNWORTH?The item is a wooden adjustable plow plane, a traditional carpentry and joinery tool used for cutting grooves or channels in wood. The plane consists of a solid wooden body with a slot for an iron cutting blade (not visible in the image). It has two pairs of wooden rods, which extend from the sides and are used to adjust the cutting width and depth. A metal thumbscrew on top is used to secure the blade or depth stop in place. The tool has a well-worn patina, with visible scratches, dents, and signs of age, indicating extensive use.timber plane, tool, farm equipment, commercial equipment, wood, carpenters, cabinetmakers, builders

Shoe stretchers were commonly used by cobblers and shoe repairers in the 19th and early 20th centuries to adjust the fit of leather shoes. They were particularly useful for breaking in new shoes or accommodating foot conditions such as bunions. Unlike modern wooden or plastic stretchers, this all-metal design is more industrial and may have been used in shoemaking workshops rather than for personal home use.The item is a vintage metal shoe stretcher, a tool used for expanding the width of leather shoes to improve fit and comfort. It consists of two long, flat metal arms that taper at the ends, connected by a central hinge with a rounded handle for applying force. The metal arms open and close when pressure is applied, allowing the tool to be inserted into a shoe and expanded to stretch the material. The stretcher has a rusted, aged appearance, indicating significant use over time. shoe stretcher, shoes, bookmaker, household item, commercial equipment

These leatherworking tools were widely used in the 19th and early 20th centuries by saddlers, cobblers, and leather artisans for making shoes, saddles, belts, and harnesses. The round knife (half-moon knife) was an essential tool for cutting and skiving leather. The hole marker or stitch marker ensured even stitching, improving durability and aesthetics. The clamp tool may have been used for holding pieces of leather together during stitching or gluing. Such tools were indispensable in handcrafted leather goods before industrialized mass production. From HODGES Saddlery at NatimukThe image features three distinct vintage leatherworking tools, each tagged with numbers for identification. Left Tool: Leatherworking or Saddler’s Clamp A small metal clamp with an adjustable screw mechanism, likely used in leather stitching or riveting. The rusted metal body suggests it was used extensively in leather crafting, possibly to hold pieces of leather together while being stitched or to secure a cutting guide. The adjustable components indicate it was a versatile tool. Middle Tool: Leather Round Knife (Half-Moon Knife) A wooden-handled cutting tool with a curved, semi-circular blade, commonly known as a round knife or half-moon knife. This tool is traditionally used by leatherworkers for cutting, skiving, and shaping leather. The blade is rusted, but the tool still retains its distinct shape. The wooden handle is rounded for a firm grip, essential for precise cutting. Right Tool: Leather Hole or Stitch Marker A small metal tool with multiple protruding points, likely used for marking stitch holes or perforating leather before sewing. The sharp points indicate it could have been used to create evenly spaced stitch lines or decorative impressions. This type of tool was commonly used by cobblers, saddlers, and leatherworkers to ensure even and consistent stitching.leather, cutting tools, commercial equipment, saddlery

Tools like these tongs were essential in blacksmithing and metalworking during the period they were made. They were designed to grasp and manipulate heated metal during the forging process. The handmade quality, combined with the visible signs of wear and patina, suggests that these tongs were produced locally by a skilled craftsman and saw extensive use in an industrial or artisan setting. They now serve as a historical artifact that offers insight into the traditional methods of metal fabrication and the day-to-day challenges faced by historical tradespeople.These tongs are a robust, hand-forged pair of tools typical of a blacksmith’s workshop. They exhibit a utilitarian design with two elongated arms that converge into a pair of working jaws. The tongs show a slightly irregular, handcrafted appearance—each jaw has a subtly different contour suggesting they were individually shaped rather than mass-produced. A central pivot joins the arms, and wear marks along the gripping surfaces indicate they were used frequently in heavy-duty metalwork.tongs, blacksmith, commercial equipment

Used in the 18th to early 20th century for making hand-poured candles before commercial candle production became widespread. Commonly used in rural homes, farms, and small workshops where self-sufficiency was key. The process involved: Melting tallow (animal fat) or beeswax in a pot. Pouring the liquid wax into the mould through the funnel openings. Inserting wicks (often pre-dipped in wax for rigidity). Allowing the wax to harden and cool. Removing the finished candles by gently heating the mould or flexing the base.A rectangular, cast-iron mould with twelve tapered cylindrical tubes arranged in parallel. The top plate has twelve funnel-shaped openings, allowing melted wax to be poured into the mould. The base plate provides stability and likely helps in cooling or supporting the structure. The mold is rusted, indicating age and exposure to moisture over time. The object has visible cobwebs and surface corrosion, suggesting long-term storage.wax, candle, candle holder, candle maker, light, household item, commercial equipment, wick

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

A manual grease gun used for lubricating machinery, vehicles, or farm equipment. Common in early 20th-century workshops, automotive garages, and farmyards. The user would load grease into the chamber, then use the handle to push the grease out through the nozzle. It was used to lubricate moving parts, preventing wear and tear on axles, gears, and bearings.A cylindrical black metal grease gun with a narrow nozzle at one end for dispensing lubricant. The opposite end has a metal loop handle, likely used for pulling or pushing the internal piston. The surface shows signs of wear, scratches, and accumulated grime, indicating extensive use.grease, oil, farm equipment, commercial equipment, garage, workshop

This type of strop was commonly used by barbers and individuals in the early 20th century for sharpening cutthroat razors (straight razors). The strop aligns the edge of the razor blade, maintaining sharpness between honing sessions. It was a necessary accessory in traditional wet shaving, before the invention of disposable razors. Often used with strop pastes or abrasives to enhance the sharpening process.A long, flat leather strop designed for sharpening straight razors. The strop has a tapered end with a rounded handle-like shape, allowing for a better grip during use. It features a metal swivel hook at the top, enabling it to be hung from a wall or hook for stability when stropping. The leather appears well-worn with visible creases and darkened areas, indicating significant past use.razor, shaving, barber, household item, commercial equipment

The Red Seal Ink brand was a common manufacturer of writing ink during the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Such boxes typically contained glass bottles filled with ink for fountain pens or dip pens. These ink boxes were often used in schools, offices, and by clerks and professionals who relied on ink for handwritten documents. The presence of detailed instructions suggests that the ink had a specific method of application or use, possibly a self-dispensing bottle or a sealing mechanism.A small, square, vintage cardboard box with a red-coloured exterior. The front panel features embossed text that reads "RED SEAL INK", along with instructions for use. The text appears faded, and the box shows signs of wear, including discoloration, stains, and frayed edges. The surface has noticeable water damage. Red cardboard box with metal pot inside. Makers Chartres Ltd. Remington house, SydneyThe box has the words "RED SEAL INK" prominently displayed on the top. Below this, there are instructions, but due to fading and water damage, they are difficult to read in full. Some words like "instructions," "raise," and "cross" are faintly visible.ink, seal, letter, commercial equipment

Shoe stretchers like this have been used for centuries, particularly for leather shoes that required breaking in. The wooden design and metal screw mechanism suggest it is an early to mid-20th-century model.This is a vintage wooden shoe stretcher with a metal screw mechanism. The item consists of: A wooden foot-shaped piece that is split into two halves, allowing for expansion. Several small holes in the wood, possibly for ventilation or for attaching additional stretching pegs. A metal rod with a threaded screw mechanism, which can be adjusted by turning a T-shaped handle at the top to widen the wooden sections and stretch a shoe. The overall design suggests it was used for maintaining the shape of shoes or expanding tight-fitting leather footwear.shoe stretcher, shoes, boots, household item, commercial equipment, bookmaker

This is a solid rectangular wooden block with three evenly spaced, hemispherical depressions carved into its surface. Each depression appears to have been shaped for moulding or shaping a material. The block has a rough, aged appearance with signs of wear. There are metal loops or hooks on two sides, possibly for hanging or securing the item in place.commercial equipment

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

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

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

These vintage hair curlers were commonly used in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. They would have been heated over an open flame or on a stove before use. Hair was clamped between the metal rods to create curls. The wooden handles provided insulation from the heat. Such curlers were essential in hairstyling before the advent of modern electric curling irons. They were widely used in homes and professional salons.A collection of vintage hair curlers bound together with twine. The curlers have wooden handles in various shades of brown, showing signs of wear and use. The metal curling rods extend from the handles and vary in colour, with some appearing blackened, while others have a rusted patina. The rods have a flat, clamp-like design, which was used to hold hair in place during the curling process.hair curlers, household item, hairdressing, commercial equipment, salon

This tool is likely part of an older hand-cranked or foot-operated drill system, possibly used for working on wooden spokes in wheelwrighting or for drilling in metal or leatherworking. Such tools were commonly found in workshops from the late 19th to early 20th centuries before electric drills became widespread. Steel Drill Spoke used for making holes in wheel hubs for inserting spokes.The item appears to be an antique drill spoke or a hand-operated tool component, possibly from a blacksmiths or wheelwright’s workshop. It consists of a cylindrical, rusted metal body with a tapered, pointed end, which may have been used for drilling or reaming holes. The base is attached to a mounting bracket with bolt holes, likely for securing it to a workbench or machinery.drill, spoke, wheel, hub, commercial equipment, wagon, gig, buggy

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

These ice tongs were widely used before modern refrigeration to transport blocks of ice from ice houses, delivery wagons, and iceboxes. Ice was harvested from frozen lakes and rivers, stored in insulated facilities, and delivered to homes and businesses. The sharp serrated edges helped ensure a secure grip, reducing the risk of dropping the ice. These tongs were essential for butchers, fishmongers, and households that relied on iceboxes to keep food fresh before the widespread adoption of electric refrigeration.These ice tongs are made of metal and feature a spring-loaded handle for easy operation. The curved, serrated gripping jaws are designed to securely grasp blocks of ice. The handle is wire-framed, with a looped grip to facilitate ease of use. The spring mechanism in the center allows for automatic opening and closing of the jaws. The entire tool exhibits rust and patina, indicating considerable age and prior use.pincer, ice, tongs, commercial equipment, household item, refrigeration

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

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

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

Cardboard container that holds khaki powered dye. Small dispensing holes at top, a tin recessed base, & the label is brown & white. Item shows a Kiwi bird and label Khaki cleaner.Kiwi khaki cleaner & image of a Kiwi bird. “Complies with colour standard of Dept of Army's Instructions for use”containers - commercial, military equipment, kiwi, cleaner

This cash register was made in 1903 at Dayton, Ohio (USA) by the National Cash Register (NCR) company, which still operates today manufacturing commercial equipment, including Automatic Teller Machines. Mr. Thomas Watson, the founder of International Business Machines (IBM), started as a traveling salesman for NCR.This register came from a shop owned by Mrs. Dulcie Anderson near the Star Hotel in Walhalla. This cash register consists a brass register that is now heavenly tarnished. The register has two mechanical displays on the back and fore on the front. The register is siting on a wooden chest with a dark varnish and cash draws ladled A,B,D,E,H,K, with draw E missing the metal letter.'NATIONAL' on the back.money, shop, shops, 1903, cash, cash register

The Olivetti company was founded in Italy in 1908.This particular typewriter is a Olivetti Lettera 22, oblique front stroke and portable manufactured after 1950. The 1950s and 1960s was a time when British manufactured goods were still purchased by many Australian consumers. The later 1960s onwards, there was a shift, mainly in the cities, to European made goods. The invasion of Japanese manufactured goods was relatively slower, especially in rural areas. The demand for long lasted and dependable merchandise was in the rural area still the most important criteria. The ease of setting up this typewriter and its compact mobility was its major benefit to trades people and travelling professionals, e.g. rural doctors, other medical professionals, accountants, lawyers and educators. This item facilitated the growing numbers of professional nomads requiring a relatively light office stationery package e.g. travelling novelist, writer, businessman and academics. This typewriter needed no electrical or battery power to operate it. Outback Australia, where at this point in time, was still relatively isolated from a good available electrical power reticulation and battery power, and therefore could not be totally measured as a highly efficient office environment.Although this typewriter was purchased from a business in Penrith, Sydney, N.S.W., it is significant that it travelled easily to the Kiewa Valley, demonstrating the mobility of certain sections of the community. This typewriter was designed by an Italian industrial designer, Marcello Nizzoli, in line with the art deco style of the 1930s and the colour and flexibility of the vibrant 1950s. The underlying theme of manufacturing in the 1950s was to produce equipment that was more efficient than what was inherited from the earlier period of 20th century. Improvements were made to this Olivetti typewriter by Giuseppe Beccio by reducing the number of parts made from 3,000 to 2,000. This reduction of parts and therefore cost of production was the major principle of the Japanese manufacturing juggernauts of the post World War II era. Efficiency and low costs material was becoming prime factors in the success of rural industries from the 1960s. Competition from overseas producers was starting to affect rural industries and the removal of the large range of tariff protection, especially rural products, required not only a shift of farm management but a more efficient cost savings modus operandi. This Olivetti Lettera 22, oblique front stroke portable (weighs 4kg) mechanical typewriter has a coral coloured plastic casing. The keys are made of black hardened plastic with white lettering, numbers and symbols (imperial fractions, and pound). It has a QWERTY keyboard as opposed to the Italian QZERTY. It has a lever to move the ribbon between black, neutral (for mimeograph stencils)and red colours (a red key is provided for highlighting specific words,letters or symbols) . This machine is fitted with only a black ribbon. It has a black rubber paper rollers and chromed metal parts on the carriage way. It has four rubber feet underneath the main body. On the left side of the roller there is a lever to adjust the roller from fixed (when mobile) through 1,2 and 3 line space gradients. This model has a key for zero but not one for the number one (uppercase letter l is used) see KVHS 0459 for the carrying bag.On the cover over the ribbon wheels letter strikers has a plate marked "Lettera 22" and the back plate behind the paper roller and in front of the paper supports has a silver metal label marked "olivetti made in great britain".commercial, mobile office equipment, mechanical typewriter