This popular furniture business was owned and operated by Mr Les Cheesley. In about 1963 the premises of Birrell's Bakery, Miss Hamilton's Corsetry, Gouge's Dry Cleaners, and the Dalgety NZ Loan Stock & Station Agents were demolished to make way for the Wodonga Home Furnishers. Mr Cheesley was a well-respected member of the community and served 13 years as a local councillor. He was often referred to as the council’s watchdog. His contribution is commemorated in the naming of the Les Cheesley Oval, Wodonga in his honour. Mr Cheesley died in Wodonga on 29th September 1994. The business continued to operate for a few more years but the shop was demolished in 1999 to make way for the realignment of Elgin Street in central Wodonga.A colour photo of the premises of Wodonga Home Furnishers in High Steet, Wodongawodonga businesses, high street wodonga, wodonga home furnishers, les cheesley

The first Bank of New South Wales building in Wodonga was located in a small cottage. The branch opened on 7 May 1872. At first it was conducted as an agency of the Beechworth branch. In October 1872 premises in Sydney road were purchased from Mr P. L. M. S. Chauncy for £650. When the bank commenced in the cottage the first account was opened in the name of Hillerman & Co, storekeepers, Wodonga. Another early account was in the name of William Huon, squatter of de Kerilleau, Wodonga. On 9 July 1873, the agency was converted into full branch under the management of Mr. Joseph Belcher. Other early accounts included Cronin & Callaghan, storekeepers; John Bassett Jnr, shoemaker; John Jennings, contractor; Ah Soon, tobacco grower, Kergunyah; John de Corney Ireland, collector of customs; Andrew Kyle, fellmonger; Rowan Lockhead, accountant; Alexander McKay, publican; George Pollard, farmer; Thomas Street, farmer; and Edmund Uren, gentleman, Buninyong. Organisations banking at the branch included Wodonga Building Society, 1873; Wodonga Mechanics Institute 1875; Wodonga Band Fund 1882; Talgarno Athenaeum, 1888; Talgarno Butter & Cheese Factory 1892; Wodonga Federation League 1893; Wodonga Brass Band 1895; Wodonga Benevolent Society 1895; Wodonga Fire Brigade 1897; Wodonga Rifle Club and Wodonga Racing Club in 1899 and Kiewa Polo Club in 1900. There were also numerous lodge and church accounts. The cottage was later renovated with a porch added in 1889 and an extension to the residence in 1898. The original house was eventually demolished to make way for a new bank and manager’s residence in Sydney Road in 1906. That building was again remodelled in 1969. It became a branch of the WESTPAC bank when the Bank of NSW and CBA Bank joined to become the Westpac Banking Corporation in 1982. After the building ceased operation as a bank, it has been the home to several businesses including a video store, a travel agency and a clothing store.These images have local significance as they record changes to a building which filled an important role in the commercial life of Wodonga.A series of photos both black and white and coloured which document changes in the former Bank of New South Wales building in Wodonga over time.Photo 1: On sign above verandah "BANK of NEW SOUTH WALES" Photo 2: On sides of building and above door: "BANK OF NEW SOUTH WALES" Photo 3: Above door: "HIRE/ VIDEO MADNESS/ SALES" Photo 4: Above door: "WODONGA TRAVEL"wodonga businesses, banking wodonga, bank nsw wodonga, businesses high street wodonga

Patrick Toole was born in Corowa on 7 September 1913. In the early 1930s the family moved to Wodonga. Pat became an apprentice mechanic with Bill Dobbie and became a partner in 1936. Patrick Toole took over business in his own right on 23 August 1939. Toole’s Motors also ran a car and truck agency, a towing and crane depot, as well as a small disposal section. After breaking his leg in 1963, Pat extended the disposals business and by 1965 it was running as Wodonga Disposals and later, Toole’s Disposals. At their peak Toole’s employed 70 people across their various businesses including the garage, wreckers, towing businesses, a storage shed at Bandiana and the Disposal Store. Pat died in Wodonga on 10 November 1976 and the Disposals Store was taken over by his twin sons, Frank and Bill. His other sons, Pat and Jim ran the North Eastern Truck Wreckers. Tooles Disposals acquired most of their stock from Government auctions and also became licensed second hand dealers. They sold a wide range of military and non-military equipment from clothing to footwear and equipment for cooking and camping. They also shipped scrap metal to Japan and sourced uniforms and other items from Japan and East European countries. The business continued on the corner of High Street and Stanley Street for over 70 years, but the Toole family decided to sell the building in 2009. The building was eventually sold to a local business consortium in 2010. Toole’s continued to operate until May 2011. Thee building was demolished in 2013. Bill Toole continued Toole’s Disposals as an online business with numerous Australian and international clients.These images document an important and long standing business in Wodonga.A collection of images and a business card for the company of Tooles Garage and Disposals in Wodonga. Images depict the business at various stages in its development over more than 70 years.Photo 1 Beneath image - 1929 W. DOBBIE MOTOR & GENERAL ENGINEER / Con Lindsay, Alec Padgett, Bill Dobbie, Pat Toole Photo 2 Beneath image - 1940 A. L. TOOLE MOTOR & GENERAL ENGINEER / Fay Fulford, Gerry Nelder, Mick Presnell, Pat Toole Photo 3 On building - TOOLES MOTORS est. 1939/ TOOLES MOTORS PTY. LTD./ DISPOSALS/ DISPOSALS AT CITY PRICESt Photo 4 On sign - TOOLES DISPOSALS Photo 5 Business cardwodonga businesses, toole's disposals, businesses high street wodonga

Elaine Mann was married to David Mann, a successful Wodonga businessman and community leader who passed away in Wodonga in June 2012. David was a member of the Mann family who began their business in Wodonga in 1920. Elaine was a teacher in Wodonga for many years and an active member of the community.This photo collection is of significance as it documents how the businesses and buildings in Wodonga have evolved and contributed to community throughout the late 20th century.This image is reproduced from a set of coloured slides. Peard & Sons Plumbing on the corner of Lawrence and High, Roy Benson's store and Woolworths Food-Fair. Peards were located here in the 1940s. By November 1966 to C. 1973 this building was occupied by Tower Tyre Service, followed by Repco Auto Parts until 1985. It is now Lee Corner Chinese restaurant. Roy Benson was listed as a Grocer in the telephone directory, but he apparently had a few tables and chairs and was also a milk bar/café. He was heavily involved in the community including committee roles in Wodonga Dramatic Club, Wodonga & District Progress Association, Wodonga Carpet Bowls Association, Wodonga Chamber of Commerce and Wodonga Shire Council. He was President of the RSL for 25 years from the early 1920s.wodonga businesses, high street wodonga, woolworths food fair, peard plumbing, roy benson

Elaine Mann was married to David Mann, a successful Wodonga businessman and community leader who passed away in Wodonga in June 2012. David was a member of the Mann family who began their business in Wodonga in 1920. Elaine was a teacher in Wodonga for many years and an active member of the community.This photo collection is of significance as it documents how the businesses and buildings in Wodonga have evolved and contributed to community throughout the late 20th century.This image is reproduced from a set of coloured slides. The Wine Café on High Street next to Woolworths Food Fair Supermarket. It was owned by the Costa family for many years, then taken over by Josephine Adams Bernardo Costa was born in Switzerland in 1829 and left his homeland for Sydney at the age of 27. He ventured south to the gold fields of Beechworth and Yackandandah. He moved to Wodonga in1891. Bernardo applied for and was granted a wine licence on 24/14/1887 and established his Wine Saloon. After his death in 1915, the Wine Café continued to be operated by his daughters Annie, Angela and Gertrude. They also operated a boarding house behind the café. The business operated under a range of owners for approximately 72 years, closing in about 1963. It was estimated that hundreds of thousands of gallons of wines of all kinds were sold there. On façade of building "WINE CAFE"wodonga businesses, high street wodonga, woolworths food fair, peard plumbing, roy benson

The Sarroff family were one of the earliest Lebanese families to arrive in the area of Albury-Wodonga in the 1890s, originating from Kousba, Lebanon. They opened a drapery business in Townsend Street, Albury. Father Carl and Nassim (Charles) were naturalised in 1897. Carl died in 1926. By the 1950s his grandsons were operating dry cleaning businesses in both towns. In 1970 their business was located in Wodonga Mall on the corner of High Street and Stanley Street.Sarroff's Dry Cleaning was operated by the family of one of the earliest Lebanese migrant families to the Wodonga area in the 1890s.A blue metal ash tray bearing the name SARROFF's Dry Cleaners in a white disc in the centrePrinted on the white disc in the centre "SARROFF'S/Wodonga/Dry Cleaners/ Phone 639/ 2 Hour Service"lebanese migrants, wodonga businesses, high street wodonga

Norman Thomas Henshaw operated a tailor's business in High Street, Wodonga for several years. He was born in Albury in 1891, the sone of WIlliam Henshaw and Ellen nee Goldsworthy. At various times, Norman operated a tailor business in Albury, Rutherglen, Beechworth and Wodonga. His business in High Street, Wodonga was advertised as being located opposite the Fire Brigade Hall. Mr. Henshaw died 10 September 1966 and his wife Agnes died on 30 July 1999, aged 107. They are buried in the Waugh Rd. cemetery in Albury, NSWThis item has local significance as it represents business which operated in Wodonga in the 1920s. It is also representative of a significant local family.A metal and enamel match box holder promoting Henshaw's Tailor in Wodonga. The back features a calendar for 1927. On Front: "With compliments from/ N. T. Henshaw/ Tailor/ High Street "/ Wodonga/ G. & G. A/SIA. LTD. On Back: 1927 Calendar On Side: "STRIKE" N. T. HENSHAW / TO BE SUITED"wodonga businesses, henshaw tailor, high st wodonga

Miss Olive Codling was a Foundation Member and a Life Member of the Wodonga Historical Society. Many of her prize-winning photos are held in the Society Collection. She also held a range of roles and committee positions in a wide range of Wodonga community organisations. These included the Horticultural Society, the Wodonga Arts Council, the Wodonga Camera Club and the Wodonga Lapidary Club. This photo collection is significant as it documents how the businesses and buildings in Wodonga have evolved and contributed to community throughout the 20th century.Businesses located in High Street. Wodonga north of the recently developed Mann Central. Malibu Ice Cream was at one time McSwiney’s Chemist, and is now High X-Posure Lingerie. For a short time it was also the premises of Pauls Ski Shop, now located in Thomas Mitchell Drive, Wodonga. Crystal's Pizza was at one time Dempster's Café and is now Junction Pizza. In 2021 Wodonga Fish Shop is the location of Greg's Takeaway which was established in 1988.wodonga businesses, high st wodonga, malibu ice cream, crystals pizza, wodonga fish shop

Miss Olive Codling was a Foundation Member and a Life Member of the Wodonga Historical Society. Many of her prize-winning photos are held in the Society Collection. She also held a range of roles and committee positions in a wide range of Wodonga community organisations. These included the Horticultural Society, the Wodonga Arts Council, the Wodonga Camera Club and the Wodonga Lapidary Club. This photo collection is significant as it documents how the businesses and buildings in Wodonga have evolved and contributed to community throughout the 20th century.Geoff and Clarrie Ewart conducted a menswear business in High Street, Wodonga for 45 years. The pair began trading in 1954 at the southern end of the street before moving to a shop next to the Wodonga Pharmacy where they continued until 1995. They also opened Ewart's Book Store further south in High Street in 1961. Their second site became known as the 'long shop' as it extended from High Street and through to the Coles supermarket car park. They closed their menswear business in 1995. It was eventually absorbed by Coles when they extended their store, Jannoel Florist in Seasame Street was opened late 1973 - back then the Darrel Lea shop was Harry Johnsons shoe shop and after that it was Toyworld then it became Darrel lea before Jannoel bought Darrel Lea in 1998 knocked a hole in the wall and began combining flowers and chocolates Coles building was commenced on the site of Stiff and Gannon in March 1971 wodonga businesses, high st wodonga, ewart brothers, jannoel florist

James Stewart Noel Harris was born in Rutherglen on 21 March 1905 to John Richards Harris and Jessie Lily nee Prentice. His father was a doctor in Rutherglen. John later entered politics and was knighted for his services in May 1937. After finishing his secondary schooling James (Stewart) Harris moved to Melbourne to study law, becoming a resident of Trinity College in 1925 and rising to become Senior Student in his final year, 1928-29. He enlisted in the Air Force Cadets at Point Cook in 1925 and transferred to the Air Force Reserve in 1930. On 7th October 1940 James transferred to active service as a Flight Officer. He worked his way up the ranks, being appointed Wing Commander in 1944. He also served as Chief Instructor of the RAAF School of Administration, receiving the RAAF Long Service Commendation. The RAAF School of Administration and Special Duties had moved from Ascot Vale to Trinity College in 1942 meaning that James Harris' service career had returned to the place it began in 1925. In 1945 he requested to be transferred back to the Reserve so that he could resume his civilian life. On discharge, James returned to Wodonga and resumed his legal career. In the early 1930s he had joined the legal practice of Mr. Edmondstone which had opened for business in High Street, Wodonga in 1886. The practice continued to develop and in 1966 was joined by Lou Lieberman, becoming known as “Harris Lieberman & Co”. Harris Lieberman still operates in Wodonga and Albury. James Stewart Noel Harris died in Wodonga on 30th November 1978.This item is significant because it recognises the War Service of a prominent citizen of Wodonga.A colour printed certificate presented to James S. N, Harris in appreciation for his service for "King and Empire" during World War II. The text is surrounded by columns and an arch. The Australian and British flags are at the top as well as representations of the Navy, Army and Air Force. It also features the logo of the Shire of Wodonga above the text. The badge of the Commonwealth Armed Forces is at the centre bottom of the certificate. This small collection also includes black and white photographs of James Samuel Noel Harris in uniform and also saluting on presentation of an award recognising his service in 1942.On Certificate: PRESENTED TO James S. N. Harris BY THE PRESIDENT, COUNCILLORS AND CITIZENS OF THE SHIRE OF WODONGA as a record and an appreciation of Your Services to King and Country during the Great War which commenced 3rd September, 1939. Given under the Common Seal of the Shire of Wodonga by the President, Citizens this Councillors and Citizens this 25th day of February 1946 C F Pollard, Presidentjames stewart noel harris, servicemen wodonga wwii, harris lieberman

This laundry basket was made by Mr Walter Bullock helped by his son John at his workshop behind his house at No 35 High Street, Wodonga. This business was known as "Cantetex" and was given as a wedding present to Colin and Jennifer Hore in 1959. Mr Bullock passed away in Wodonga on 20 November 1973. Colin Hore is the son of Jack Hore, a very prominent member of the Wodonga Community. Jack Hore was awarded the Order of the British Empire, MBE in January 1962 for service as a Councillor of the Wodonga Shire Council. He held a Council seat continuously for 32 years, including eight terms as President. He also served two terms as Chairman of the Wodonga District Hospital Board 1961-62, having been a member of the board since 1954. He held a seat on the Victorian Country Fire Authority for many years until his death in 1970, having been a member of Wodonga Urban Fire Brigade since 1940. Jack played football with Wodonga for 14 years and coached the team to premiership honours in the Chiltern and District League in 1926. He was club treasurer from 1926 to 1940. Jack was also a Foundation member of Wodonga Show Society.This item is significant because it belonged to a member of a prominent Wodonga family and was manufactured in Wodonga.A laundry basket made from rattan cane work. The lid is cover in blue and white textile.walter bullock, cane furniiture, jack hore mbe

Sunnyside Cash Store was located on the corner of High Street and Wilson Streets Wodonga. It was built and operated by Bill and Ethel Elkington about 1947. The building is in Art Deco style with an awning, verandah and rendered brick parapet behind which was a pitched roof. The shop front originally featured black tile surrounds which have since been removed. The Ice Cream Cone at the front of the building was unfortunately stolen. Apart from a brief period in the early 2000s, the premises has operated as a corner store or café continuously since it was built. In 2025 it still operates as a café called Delibean.This calendar is significant because it documents a business operated by a prominent Wodonga family.Coloured Calendar for Sunnyside Cash Store and a photograph of the Sunnyside Cash StoreW. A. & P. E. ELKINGTON SUNNYSIDE CASH STORE 237 High Street Wodongawodonga businesses, elkington family, wodonga cafes, sunnyside wodonga

Len and Merle Pilkington came to Wodonga from Wonthaggi in 1946. Len had been an employee on the Victorian railways. They both gained employment with J. Mann & Son of Wodonga where Len became manager of the Shoe Department. When the Sumsion’s shoe shop became available Len and Merle bought it in partnership with Ernie Mann. The partnership dissolved a year later and Len and Merle continued as Pilkington’s Shoes. In the 1950s, the shoe repair shop belonging to Nick Hauser was up for sale and Len and Merle extended their business. In the mid-1950s they were joined by their son Barry who continued to work there in a variety of roles including shoe repairer, salesman and accountant. Over the life of Pilkington’s Shoes they operated from two different locations in High Street, Wodonga. At one stage the business provided a living for six staff, but the impact of the recession of 1982 – 83, competition from chain store discount prices and a reduced demand for high quality shoes took their toll on the business and Barry Pilkington closed his doors in 1993 after several decades serving the Wodonga community. This Calendar promoted “Paddle” shoes. Paddle Bros. Shoes Pty. Ltd. was started by Joe Paddle and his seven sons, from a small shed in Carlton. Paddle then moved to a factory in Fitzroy and later in Mornington and Ballarat. In 1982 Paddle Bros. Shoes Pty. Ltd. was purchased by Rivers (Australia) Pty. Ltd. These images and calendar are significant because they document a long standing business in Wodonga.A coloured Calendar from Pilkington's Shoe Store Wodonga advertising Paddle Shoes. It is accompanied by some black and white images of the owners and premises.Paddle Games Calendar With compliments from Pilkingtons Shoes The Friendly Footwear Store 106 High St., Wodonga Telephone: 560 Paddle for longer shoe wear - proper foot care.pilkingtons, wodonga businesses, pilkingtons shoes

According to an advertisement in the Wodonga & Towong Sentinel on Friday 22 August 1913, James Frank Gerrard, formerly of Wangaratta, purchased a bakery owned by Mr. E. B. Atwood. The premises had been built in 1905. In approximately 1920 he was joined in Gerrard’s Bakery by his son James Frank Peter Gerrard who is depicted in this image. In 1923 James Sr became a traveller for Messrs W & P Smith North Eastern Flour Mills in Wangaratta, Victoria. His son continued to operate the bakery until 1925 when it was sold to T. S. Jones from Euroa. The premises continued to function as a bakery run by a succession of proprietors including F. Blackwell, P. J. Hide and the Birrell Brothers. In 1964 the premises and three neighbouring businesses were demolished to make way for Wodonga Home Furnishers. This building in turn was demolished in 1998 to facilitate the realignment of Elgin Street and High Streets. James Sr. and his wife Annie had a family of 12 children. He continued to work for W & P Smith until two years before his death in December 1944, in his 80th year. Their family included two other sons, Leslie Frank Sinclair Gerrard, who for some time ran a Watchmaker and Jeweller’s business in Wodonga and Charles Francis Alexander Gerrard who operated a Hairdresser and Tobacconist shop, also in Sydney Road, Wodonga. James Frank Peter Gerrard, pictured in this image, continued to live in the Albury-Wodonga area. He operated a variety of businesses including a wood yard and a taxi and bus service operating between Albury, Wodonga and Tallangatta. He died in Albury on 3rd December 1954.This image is significant because it documents an early businessman in Wodonga.A black and white image of a man holding a loaf of bread. His baker's cart is in the background.On side of cart:- J. F. GERRARD, BAKERearly wodonga businesses, bakeries wodonga, gerrard family

This image appeared in the Australasian Sketcher on 2nd July 1883. This issue had several illustrations relating to the meeting of the railways at Albury and Wodonga. The item was accompanied by the following text:- Wodonga consists of two principal streets lying parallel to each other seemingly desirous of outstripping the other in length and the straggling character of its buildings. After carrying on this contest for the length of three quarters of High Street, of which we give a view, bears off the palm. Between the township and Albury there is a distance of three miles, which in summer has the reputation of being the dustiest three miles in Australia. This distance is traversed by omnibuses and cabs, which ply between the two towns, and until the junction of the railways did a good business in carrying all travellers from station to station. The dwellers in Wodonga, who are Victorians to the backbone, complain severely of the disadvantages under which they labour, owing to the border duties, in comparison with their more fortunate neighbours in Albury, but though they grumble they have no intention of giving in, and confidently look forward to the brighter days which they say are in store for Wodonga. In the lower right hand corner are the initials J. R. A. These are the initials of Julian Rossi Ashton (1851-1942). Ashton was born in England and emigrated to Melbourne in 1878 to work as an artist for the Illustrated Australian News. In 1881 he worked at the Australasian Sketcher and in 1883 moved to Sydney to work on the Picturesque Atlas of Australasia and the Bulletin. He became an influential patron and supporter of Australian Art through his roles as trustee of the National Art Gallery of New South Wales. He was awarded the Society of Artists’ medal for distinguished services to Australian art in 1924, appointed as Commander of the Order of the British Empire in 1930, and won the Sydney Sesquicentennial Prize for a watercolour in 1938. Ashton dominated artistic circles in Sydney for over 50 years. He established his own Art School in Sydney and became a teacher and mentor to many now prominent Australian artists. Julian Rossi Ashton died on 27th April 1942 This item is significant because it depicts an early view of Wodonga and was created by a future prominent artist and influential patron and supporter of Australian Art .A print from a Wood Engraving which was published in the Australasian Sketcher 1883. It features a street scene in Wodonga.wodonga town 1883, early wodonga

Sarah Coventry Pty. Ltd. was a North American jewellery company that was established in 1949 by the Stuart family as part of Emmons Jewelry, Inc. It began operations in England and Australia in 1968, and in Australia it moved from Carlton in Melbourne to Wodonga in 1969. The premises were originally on High Street in Wodonga, but a new warehouse was built in Melbourne Road later in 1969. It was a direct selling jewellery business using a party-plan model similar to Tupperware and Avon. The sales reps or 'Hostesses' were provided with jewellery samples in demonstration kits, which they displayed at jewellery parties in their homes. The designs for jewellery such as brooches, necklaces, earrings, chokers and bracelets were purchased from freelance designers and jewellery manufacturers rather than in-house designers. In 1979 Sarah Coventry Pty. Ltd. in Wodonga was bought by three Australian businessmen, including Wodonga local Jim Sawyer, and continued to sell jewellery under the name "Sargem Pty. Ltd”, for several more years in the 1980s. This item was part of the Affinity Jewellery line released in 1982.As part of the Sarah Coventry collection, this item has local significance with the decentralised commercial development of regional centres such as Wodonga in NE Victoria, as well as national and international significance from the perspective of social and economic developments for women after World War II. The direct selling party-plan business model Sarah Coventry was based on is also considered the first of its kind for jewellery.A gold filigree ring with an oval opal in the centre. The ring is not fully enclosed so the size can be carefully adjusted.Inside Ring © COVENTRYsarah coventry, sarah coventry affinity, sarah coventry wodonga

Sarah Coventry Pty. Ltd. was a North American jewellery company that was established in 1949 by the Stuart family as part of Emmons Jewelry, Inc. It began operations in England and Australia in 1968, and in Australia it moved from Carlton in Melbourne to Wodonga in 1969. The premises were originally on High Street in Wodonga, but a new warehouse was built in Melbourne Road later in 1969. It was a direct selling jewellery business using a party-plan model similar to Tupperware and Avon. The sales reps or 'Hostesses' were provided with jewellery samples in demonstration kits, which they displayed at jewellery parties in their homes. The designs for jewellery such as brooches, necklaces, earrings, chokers and bracelets were purchased from freelance designers and jewellery manufacturers rather than in-house designers. In 1979 Sarah Coventry Pty. Ltd. in Wodonga was bought by three Australian businessmen, including Wodonga local Jim Sawyer, and continued to sell jewellery under the name "Sargem Pty. Ltd”, for several more years in the 1980s. This item was part of the Affinity Jewellery line released in 1982.As part of the Sarah Coventry collection, this item has local significance with the decentralised commercial development of regional centres such as Wodonga in NE Victoria, as well as national and international significance from the perspective of social and economic developments for women after World War II. The direct selling party-plan business model Sarah Coventry was based on is also considered the first of its kind for jewellery. A gold necklace which consists of two chains. One is made up of twisted links and incorporates two sets of five circular sections. sarah coventry, sarah coventry affinity, sarah coventry wodonga

The company which was to become the manufacturer of the iconic Australian Akubra hat was founded in Tasmania in 1876 by Benjamin Dunkerley at his Kensington Hat Mills in Hobart. In 1906 he relocated to a small workshop in Surrey Hills, New South Wales. He was joined by British hatmaker in 1904. In 1911 Dunkerley Hat Mills is registered with seven shareholders and in 1912 Akubra brand was registered. In 1918 Benjamin Dunkerley died and Stephen Keir became the patriarch of the company which was to remain in the hands of the Keir family for five generations. In 2023 Akubra is acquired by Andrew and Nicola Forrest’s private investment group Tattarang to ensure it remained as an Australian company. During its long history Akubra has produced a wide range of styles as well as having a contract for the manufacture of the Australian Military slouch hat. The Akubra “Clubman” first appeared in 1953. Fayrefield Hats were manufactured by the United Felt Hat Company Pty Ltd. in Abbotsford, Victoria from about 1920. The Company operated in a factory formally owned by Denton Hats. They relocated to Eltham, Victoria sometime in the 1940s. The Australian hat manufacturing industry received a major boost in the late 1920s with the introduction of tariffs on imported hats. As well as selling a wide range of men’s hats, Fayrefield also manufactured Australian military hats in the 1960s. Both of these hats were sold by Ewart Bros. Menswear in High Street, Wodonga. Clarrie and Jeff Ewart opened their business, Ewart Bros. Menswear in High Street, Wodonga in 1954. After 45 years of service to the Wodonga community Ewart Bros. closed their doors on Friday 3rd April 1998.These hats are significant because they were manufactured by two iconic Australian companies and sold by an important, long-serving Wodonga business.Two men's hats sold by Ewart Brothers of Wodonga. Hat One is an Akubra Clubman featuring a feather in the brim. Hat Two is a fedora style hat manufactured by Fayrefield of Melbourne. Branding and logos on both hatsaustralian hat makufacturers, akubra, fayrefield, ewart bros. menswear

Sarah Coventry Pty. Ltd. was a North American jewellery company that was established in 1949 by the Stuart family as part of Emmons Jewelry, Inc. It began operations in England and Australia in 1968, and in Australia it moved from Carlton in Melbourne to Wodonga in 1969. The premises were originally on High Street in Wodonga, but a new warehouse was built in Melbourne Road later in 1969. It was a direct selling jewellery business using a party-plan model similar to Tupperware and Avon. The sales reps or 'Hostesses' were provided with jewellery samples in demonstration kits, which they displayed at jewellery parties in their homes. The designs for jewellery such as brooches, necklaces, earrings, chokers and bracelets were purchased from freelance designers and jewellery manufacturers rather than in-house designers. In 1979 Sarah Coventry Pty. Ltd. in Wodonga was bought by three Australian businessmen, including Wodonga local Jim Sawyer, and continued to sell jewellery under the name "Sargem Pty. Ltd”, for several more years in the 1980s. This item was part of the Affinity Jewellery line released in 1982.As part of the Sarah Coventry collection, this item has local significance with the decentralised commercial development of regional centres such as Wodonga in NE Victoria, as well as national and international significance from the perspective of social and economic developments for women after World War II. The direct selling party-plan business model Sarah Coventry was based on is also considered the first of its kind for jewellery. A long gold necklace with loop clasp. It features six sections of twisted chain of three centimetres set five centimetres apart. These sit so that there are three feature section on either side of the necklace.sarah coventry, sarah coventry affinity, sarah coventry wodonga

The office of The Sentinel or Wodonga and Towong Sentinel newspaper was in High Street, Wodonga. The Sentinel began operation in 1885 and was owned, managed and edited by James Ryan. It was published weekly until he was killed by a train at Wodonga station on 27 July 1912. James Ryan was born in Beechworth in 1861 and served his apprenticeship with the printing business of the "Ovens and Murray Advertiser”. For a time, he worked on the Melbourne "Herald”, followed by the Ballarat “Courier”. With a fellow printer, William Oldfield Taylor, he moved to Wodonga and they began the "Wodonga and Towong Sentinel" with the first issue on 29th August 1885. Mr Taylor died in June 1894. After James Ryan’s death the “Sentinel” was continued by his son Charlie until his death 26 February 1965. It was sold to the Border Morning Mail in 1965. The last issue was published on 22 March 1968.This image captures the premises of an important newspaper published in Wodonga for 80 years.A black and white image of the Sentinel newspaper office in Wodonga.At the top of the building "The SENTINEL"wodonga businesses, wodonga & towong sentinel, wodonga buildings

The Title for the land on which this building stands was granted on 27 August 1857 and the land was bought by Keith Field and A. Maitland. It stood on 1 / 2 acre of land with 250 lengths down South Street and 200 lengths along Sydney Road. The 1 / 2 acre block on the northern side was also purchased by the same buyers. The State Savings Bank was built in 1915, just three years after the State Savings Bank of Victoria was established. It was branch number 731. The building served as a bank until about 1970. It is now owned and used as an office by a local law firm. It is a single storey rendered masonry building with a parapet concealing the roof. Key features of the High Street facade are horizontal bands of masonry, timber windows outlined with moulded details and ornamentation accentuated the door. A more modern branch was opened in a central location in High Street. The State Bank of Victoria was taken over by the Commonwealth Bank in 1990. These images record the premises of a bank which served the Wodonga community and businesses for many years.3 photos of the State Bank of Victoria in High Street Wodonga at various points in its history.state bank, wodonga businesses, financial institutions wodonga

Higginson's menswear store was located in High Street Wodonga. Mr. Higginson first worked as a grocery boy at Farmer and Sons in Wodonga. He later moved to Rudines in Dean Street, Albury. He worked at this store, which sold clothing for both men and women for several years until he joined the army in 1942. After the war, he went back to school for a while, but then returned to Rudines. This was followed by 2 years at Stiff and Gannon's in Wodonga. He set about saving to have his own business, spending 5 years as manager at Trim's in Albury. Lionel Higginson met his future wife, Dulcie, at a social dance a few years after returning from the war. They both worked in menswear and were engaged 6 months later and started building their dream. This included building their own business. The business, L. A. Higginson's Menswear opened on 10 October 1958 and around 12 months later added a women's clothing line, Dee Gals. This became so popular that in 1995 Dee Gals moved in to its own shop in the arcade. When Lionel passed away in 1999, his eldest daughter Pauline, who supported the business from the time she was 15, helped her mother progress the business. At this stage managing 2 stores was very demanding so Dee Gals was closed. In 2000, Dulcie's daughter Michelle Matthews and husband Phil took over the business. Due to changing shopping approaches and demands of online shopping, the business closed on June 2023 after 65 years serving the community.A coloured image of Higginson's Menswear in Wodonga.Above Shop : L. A. Higginson's Menswear / Dee Gals Lingerie Hosietyhigginson's wodonga, wodonga businesses, l. a. higginson wodonga

George Smith came to Wodonga c.1885 and carried on a business as a blacksmith and wheelwright in Hume Street. He subsequently erected the very substantial Federal Coach Factory in High Street. In 1901 the Coach Factory was sold to Mr C. E. Jones, but within three or four years George Smith again found himself in the establishment he had built. In 1907/8 Marcus Buntz partnered by a G. F. Simpson took possession of the Federal Coach Factory. In 1912 Buntz bought out the interest of Simpson and engaged a first-class wheelwright to do the woodwork. In 1912 a buggy could be had from £40 and a sulky £18. The business over many years developed from a shoeing forge and wheelwright business to a more modern day garage, keeping abreast with mechanisation. Marcus Buntz was joined in the business by his three sons, George, an A grade mechanic, Edward an auto-electrician and Henry, a blacksmith’s striker. The sons eventually took over the garage and handled both coach building and general service work. The firm also maintained the Wodonga Water Pump for many years, ensuring the town’s water supply. In 1948 the old established motor garage was purchased by Mr Jack Mylon. In July 1960 the building became Wodonga Market, housing a butcher, snack bar, milk bar, fruit and veg, Bill Dunstan’s Boat Centre and an Auction Mart. These images have local significance as they document a long-standing business in central Wodonga.2 black and white photos depicting Buntz Federal Coach Factory at different stages during its period of operation,Photo 1: Above building: FEDERAL COACH FACTORY/ M.H. BUNTZ/ GEORGE SMITH/ COACH BUILDER & BLACKSMITH On side of coach: DRAPERY/ FANCY GOODS Photo 2: BUNTZ BROS" MOTOR GARAGE / ATLANTIC MOTOR OIL On the window: BUNTZ'S COACH FACTORY/ Rubber Tyres Fitted Below image on mounting: BUNTZ BROS. MOTOR GARAGE L to R. Pop Buntz, George Buntz, Les Easto, D. Zeinert, H. Buntz, Ted Buntz. Doug Zeinert buntz federal coaches, wodonga businesses, wodonga pioneers

When Mrs Julia Ronan nee Arundel lost her husband John to tuberculosis in 1906, she quickly decided to move from their small farm into Wodonga with her 3 children. She was granted the lease of the ground she needed to establish her eating house at one shilling per year in a shed on the Dalgety's saleyard block. Two established merchants Albert Schlink and John Whan and butcher Jack Garrett agreed to allow her credit which enabled her to open Ronan's Dining Rooms at the Saleyards. It was often a challenging environment, with drovers, and horse- breakers, auctioneers and bushmen bringing huge mobs of cattle and horses to the saleyards. Stories of the premises include the unexpected arrival in the passage of a lively bullock which finished up on the girls' bed. Mrs Ronan persevered and beat all obstacles to finally move from the saleyards to the Wodonga Coffee Palace in High Street, beside the railway gates in 1921. The construction of the Hume Weir had begun and some construction workers boarded at the Coffee Palace. Her 3 children achieved success due to their mother’s hard work to ensure their futures. Bill trained for the priesthood and was a parish priest, but died from tuberculosis 1n 1939 aged of 41. Katie became a highly accomplished music teacher, including 32 years at Albury Public School. In the 1930s she was able to buy a house at 49 High Street, Wodonga where she lived with her mother and sister Mary. Mary trained in office work at Edmondson’s solicitors and then worked on the Albury Council. After living with her daughters in the High Street house, Julia passed away on her 90th birthday in 1958. Mary died on 6 January 1983. Katie passed away in Wodonga at the age of 97 on the 16 September 1996. All members of the family are buried at Yackandandah, Victoria.A black and white image of Miss Mary Ronan, Mrs Julia Ronan and Miss Teresa Trudewind at the Old Saleyards Dining Room, Wodonga.On front of building: DINING ROOMS/ MRS. J. RONANmrs. ronan, dining rooms wodonga sale yards, wodonga businesses, wodonga pioneers

In 1906 Patrick Mylon started a passenger transport service in the Albury-Wodonga border area with horses and cabs. His son Jack went into business in the late 1920s, and his grandson Bernie joined the firm early in 1970. When Patrick started with the horses and cabs, each cab carried eight passengers and he always had two horses per cab. As the business expanded, Mylons used a range of buses and coaches including Reo, Chev and Bedford vehicles. Mylon Travel Centre opened at 152 High Street, Wodonga on 21 November 1992. It allowed Mylons to extend their service for holidaymakers. Mylon’s staff could help with all holiday needs, including answering questions about destinations as well as booking tours, accommodation, concert seats and express coach bookings. The new Centre had a computerised reservation system with direct link-up for world-wide reservations. During more than 100 years of service to the Wodonga region and beyond, Mylon Motorways received many awards for Excellence and tourism. On July 2, 2008 the company, including its 31 buses and 45 staff members were transferred to the Dyson Group.This building was part of a major local company which serviced Wodonga for over 100 years.A colour photo depicting the front of a building and roadway.Above building: MYLON TRAVEL / MYLON CENTREmylon motorways, mylon travel centre, wodonga businesses

Franz Gördes (b.1843) who immigrated to Australia from Germany in 1871. After docking in Melbourne Franz headed for the goldfields at Spring Gully near Beechworth, but didn't strike gold. He returned to his trade and opened a boot shop in Wodonga, which burnt to the ground the day before the opening. Undeterred, he rebuilt and operated the business until his death on 8 June 1928. He was survived by his widow, Margaret as well as six sons and three daughters. Franz Gordes’ Boot & Shoe Warehouse was situated in Sydney Road, now High Street, Wodonga.This item has a well documented provenance and connection to the local history of Wodonga.A black and white photo which has also been digitised. Above shop: Cheap / Boot & Shoe Warehousebusinesses wodonga, franz gördes, german migrants

In 1924, Arthur Arnold and his father Wilhelm Arnold had established a general store in High Street, near the water tower, but in 1931–32 they moved to new premises in High Street on the corner of what is now known as Elgin Boulevard. In 1933-34 they widened the frontage of the shop and added new premises at the rear for the sale of produce. The Arnolds continued to trade until they finally closed their store in 1950. Wilhelm Arnold was a brother of J G Arnold, whose business ultimately became the present-day Arnold’s Fruit Market, Wodonga.This is an image of an early Wodonga businessman who was also active in the communty.A black and white image of 2 children looking through the window of Arnold's store. A newspaper advertisement for the company is also included.Above Shop: A.ARNOLD & Co. / HARDWARE - GROCERY/ CROCKERY - PRODUCEwodonga businesses, a arnold general merchant

Costa’s Wine Cafe was once one of the best known landmarks in Wodonga. It was near the corner of High Street and Lawrence, across the road from where the water tower was later built. Mr. Bernardo Costa came to Australia from Switzerland, arriving in Sydney in 1857. In 1882 he moved to Wodonga and conducted his boot sale and repair business He applied for a Wine License in December 1886. In 1908 B Costa advertised that he had rebuilt his premises, which “affords the best and most comfortable accommodation to the travelling public”. For a while it was known as Wodonga Swiss Wine Café. After Bernardo’s death in 1915 the wine cafe and accommodation at the rear was run by his three daughters, Annie, Angela and Gertrude. In 1941 the Misses Costa sold their business and freehold to Mrs. J Adams who died just six years later. It was then run by her son Pat Adams, and after his demise his wife ran the business. Frank Walsh was running it as Walsh’s Wine Café by 1951. The Wine Café was closed in 1963 having been purchased by Woolworths and was demolished to build their new supermarket on the site.These images represent an early business in Wodonga . 2 black and white photos of the buildings of A. E. Costa, a brick building with signage.Photo 1: Above verandah: A.E. COSTA / Phone 70 COSTA's WINE Photo 2: Above verandah : WINE CAFEwodonga businesses, a. e. costa, wodonga pioneers, early wodonga businesses, wodonga businesses high street

The Wodonga Hotel was constructed in 1940 at a cost of £10,000. It is now called Elgins Hotel. It was established after the transfer of the licence from the Halfway Hotel. This was the result of a lengthy hearing before the Licensing Board over two days in December 1939, There was some opposition from established guest house keepers and hotelkeepers. G. A. Adams, owner of the Carriers’ Arms Hotel was refused a hearing as he was not a resident, so Rachael Spence his manageress objected on the ground that it would do her hotel a lot of harm. Mr Luke Murphy represented the applicants, Irene Weatherall and Lena Pickering. He stated that the new structure would be of brick, cement and iron and contain 22 rooms. The site was near the municipal sale yard and near the railway station, and, he pointed out the trucking industry, which he believed to be larger than any other in Victoria, outside of Melbourne. The hearing was told of the bad state of the Half Way Hotel, having been there for almost 100 years. Luke Murphy was quoted as saying “If Hovell were here he could give evidence on that.” The lack of accommodation and quality accommodation at Wodonga hotels was frequently heard of. Costa’s Wine Café had very excellent accommodation for but only five or six people. The lessee of the-tea rooms at the municipal saleyards, also gave evidence. Mrs Lowden said that on sale day she served up to 130 dinners in addition to 10 or 20 breakfasts, and almost continuous light lunches. She did not think a hotel would provide a needed facility for patrons of the saleyards. In April 1940 the application was granted on the condition that premises were erected within 42 weeks. The hotel was used for soldier accommodation during World War II and experienced a boom period when Wodonga saleyards were located across the road. Irene House behind the pub also was constructed in the 1970s when Albury-Wodonga had been identified as a National Growth Centre by the Whitlam Labor government. After running the hotel for 5 generations, the Weatherall Family sold the business in 2021.These images represent an early business in Wodonga . 2 photos of the Wodonga Hotel and 1 newspaper advertisementwodonga businesses, a. e. costa, wodonga pioneers, early wodonga businesses, wodonga businesses high street

Sarah Coventry Pty. Ltd. was a North American jewellery company that was established in 1949 by the Stuart family as part of Emmons Jewelry, Inc. It began operations in England and Australia in 1968, and in Australia it moved from Carlton in Melbourne to Wodonga in 1969. The premises were originally on High Street in Wodonga, but a new warehouse was built in Melbourne Road later in 1969. It was a direct selling jewellery business using a party-plan model similar to Tupperware and Avon. The sales reps or 'Hostesses' were provided with jewellery samples in demonstration kits, which they displayed at jewellery parties in their homes. The designs for jewellery such as brooches, necklaces, earrings, chokers and bracelets were purchased from freelance designers and jewellery manufacturers rather than in-house designers. In 1979 Sarah Coventry Pty. Ltd. in Wodonga was bought by three Australian businessmen, including Wodonga local Jim Sawyer, and continued to sell jewellery under the name "Sargem Pty. Ltd”, for several more years in the 1980s.As part of the Sarah Coventry collection, the necklace has local significance with the decentralised commercial development of regional centres such as Wodonga in NE Victoria, as well as national and international significance from the perspective of social and economic developments for women after World War II. The direct selling party-plan business model Sarah Coventry was based on is also considered the first of its kind for jewellery.Bracelet of interlocking circles. Alternate circles have a broad line across the centre embossed with a floral design.sarah coventry, costume jewellery, industry wodonga