This image shows High Street, Wodonga in the late 1950s to early 1960s. The view is taken looking southwards towards the Water Tower at the end of the street. Businesses visible in the image include Currans Shoe Store, Greens Shoe Repair, a barber store, Pat's Ladies Hairdresser and Beauty Parlour, Albury Drycleaners, Jim Costello's, Bye's Butchery, Cafe, Astor Electrical goods and Victorian Producers. It is an enlargement of a Rose Series postcard. This photograph is representative of many images representing High Street, Wodonga as it developed over time. The Rose Series of postcards is a series of postcards of scenes from around Australia and some international ones as well. They were produced by the Rose Stereograph Company, which was the business of Victorian photographer George Rose (1861-1942). In 1880, George, aged 19, founded his business in Victoria, and soon became famous for producing stereographs, or stereo views. His early images included the landing at Anzac Cove, Ned and Dan Kelly’s Armour (taken at trial in 1880), The Duke & Duchess of York and their daughter Princess Elizabeth and Phar Lap winning the Melbourne Cup. When stereographs lost popularity during the 1920s, Rose switched to the production of postcards and decorative cards. He and his team of photographers took thousands of photos of scenery around Victoria and beyond, and the postcards became iconic images of Australian life. The Rose Stereograph Company Collection comprising more than 100,000 items was auctioned by Lloyds in June 2021. This image shows the main street of Wodonga and allows us to trace its development over time.A large photo printed on canvas. It shows High Street Wodonga in the late 1950s, looking southwards towards the water tower.high street wodonga, wodonga businesses, wodonga 1950s

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

The Fred Rochow Railways Collection incorporates photos related to the operation of the Wodonga Railway Station including different types of trains and railways staff C. 1930 – 1990. It was donated to the Wodonga Historical Society by Fred Rochow, a railwayman who spent many years based in Wodonga. He joined the Victorian Railways on 17th June l947 and retired in 1988. For some time, he was a member of the Australian Federated Union of Locomotive Enginemen and served a term as a member of the Trades Hall Council. He had an extensive knowledge of the struggles that took place to achieve better conditions for railway workers. Fred worked for many years as a fireman and then worked his way up the ranks to driver, experiencing many changes from the days of steam locomotives through to diesel trains, locomotives and even the modern XPT train. He worked throughout Victoria at different stages of his career, with his final working years focused on the northeast of Victoria and the Albury to Melbourne line. After his retirement, Fred continued to share his love of steam miniature trains with the community. Shelley Railway Station - Shelley was once Victoria's highest railway station, located 781 metres above sea level. The Shelley Railway Station was opened in 1916 and closed in 1979. The railway was used early in its life to transport farmer’s livestock from the Upper Murray to Wodonga. From the 1950s the railway was used heavily to transport equipment and machinery from Wodonga to the Upper Murray to help build the Snowy Mountains Hydro Electric Scheme. The Snowy Hydro Scheme was completed in 1974 and after several years of low level use, the railway was closed. Some remnants of the Shelley Station passenger platform can still be seen today, along with some information boards. The Shelley Railway Station now forms part of the High Country Rail Trail.This collection has local and statewide significance as it captures images of trains, locomotives and personnel who operated the railway services in Wodonga and throughout Northeast Victoria. The railways played a critical role in opening up Victoria and connecting Australia for trade, business, social communication and transport.Shelley Railway Station. This image shows the tank where the hand brakes were lifted. They were applied again at the "up" side of Koetong for about another 10 miles then lifted near Bullioh.railways wodonga, fred rochow, shelley station, high country rail trail

Warrant Officer Class Two Bill Woolford served with the Royal Marines during World War Two. Following the war he served in Hong Kong before migrating to Australia in the 1950s. He joined the Victorian Police and was posted to Wodonga. There he joined 8/13 Victorian Mounted Rifles serving as Squadron Sergeant Major until his retirement in 1967. This tankard was presented to him on his retirement. Often a gift of this type would be hung in the mess signifying the recipient would maintain close contact with mess and the regiment.Representative of a parting gift from the sergeants mess to a retiring NCO.Silver plate tankard with 8/13 Victoriann Mounted Rifles collar badge soldered to side and engraved with presentation details.Presented to / WOII Bill Woolford / by / Sgts Mess 8/13 VMR / June 1967military, drinking, silverware, woolford bill wo2, vmr, sergeants mess

These photographs were taken in and around Falls Creek by Samuel Keith Pearce and printed for him as a foldout postcard by NuColor Vue. The postcards state they were printed for S. K. Pearce Pty. Ltd of Tawonga and Mount Beauty. Diana Lodge was built and operated by Kevin Shoebridge as a family lodge in the 1950s and it has grown and evolved over 60 years to become Diana Alpine Lodge. After Mr. Shoebridge moved to Wodonga he leased Diana Lodge to Bob Scott and it also became the Post Office and Telephone Exchange. From early early 1967 until about 1975, Diana Lodge was owned and operated by John and Gwyn van Burck. It was then purchased by a group of 12 families operating as Swan Hill Alpine Holdings. Diana Alpine Lodge has operated under several owners and was sold again as recently as 2023.This collection of postcards and images is significant because they were commissioned by a highly successful businessman in Falls Creek, Victoria and showcase the Falls Creek Tourist Area.The coloured postcard of Diana Lodge at Falls Creek.falls creek village, postcards falls creek, s. k. pearce

Snow Crystal Inn was built by Milan Kovacic in the early 1950s. Milan, born in Hungary, had the early days of his life in Victoria at the Bonegilla Migrant Camp in Wodonga. He became a ski instructor and one of his earliest students was Skippy St. Elmo. The Inn was later demolished and replaced with Snow Crystal Apartments.This image is significant because it captures one of the early lodges established at Falls Creek.A black and white image of Snow Crystal Lodge surrounded by heavy snow. Visitors can be seen seated on the balcony.Above balcony: Snow Crystal Innsnow crystal inn, milan kovacic, skippy st. elmo

Diana Lodge was built and operated by Kevin Shoebridge as a family lodge in the 1950s and it has grown and evolved over 60 years to become Diana Alpine Lodge. After Mr. Shoebridge moved to Wodonga he leased Diana Lodge to Bob Scott and it also became the Post Office and Telephone Exchange. From early early 1967 until about 1975, Diana Lodge was owned and operated by John and Gwyn van Burck. It was then purchased by a group of 12 families operating as Swan Hill Alpine Holdings. Diana Alpine Lodge has operated under several owners and was sold again as recently as 2023.This brochure is significant because it is linked to one of the early lodges established in Falls Creek.A small tan coloured brochure with black text, The cover features an image of a skier.Above image: DIANA LODGE The Ski-out, Ski-in Lodge Go! with the Snow in Victoria Below the image: Fall's Creek Victoria Phone 58 3214 Proprietors: John and Gwyn van Burckdiana alpine lodge, falls creek accommodation

Hair and beard clipping was frequently carried out at home prior to WW11 and often much later in rural areas. Manual hair clippers were readily available for purchase. Brown's Clippers were a popular choice for many Australian men. This company was based in BIrmingham, England and operated from 1939 until the end of the 1950s. This item has significance as a common item for men both domestically and commercially in the middle decades of the 20th century.A set of manual hair clippers made of chromed steel. An adjustable screw allowed blades to be interchanged.BROWN'S CLIPPER CO (1939) LTD / BIRMINGHAM.ENGLANDhair clippers, home barbers, brown's clipper co. ltd

Braun was originally founded in Germany in 1921, making components for radio sets. After World War 2 they extended their range to include audio and camera equipment. By the 1950s and 1960s the company branched out into electric shavers, kitchen appliances and hair care products. Home hair styling sets and hot rollers became popular in the 1960s and continued to be an important woman's styling appliance throughout the 1970s and 1980s. In 1975 this product was advertised at a price of $37.95. From 1984 until 2007, Braun was a wholly owned subsidiary of Gillette, which had purchased a controlling interest in the company in 1967. Braun is now a subsidiary of Procter & Gamble, which acquired Gillette in 2005.Personal grooming items such as this became important personal accessories and grooming tools for women throughout the mid 20th century across Australia.This hair styler set contains 20 hair rollers which were heated by placing them on the 20 heating posts fitted inside the unit in the case. An electric cord supplied was attached to an electric socket. A red dot on top of each posts darkened when the rollers were sufficiently heated. A detailed instruction booklet is included. A mirror is attached to the inside of the lid.On 2 metal plates on back of unit: Plate 1: MANUFACTURED FOR BRAUN ELECTRICS (AUST) PTY. LTD. / 24 JOHNSTON ST., FITZROY, VIC. 650-WATT 240 V. A. C. ONLY 50 CYCLE CAT. NO. B102 Plate 2: VOLT 240 AC ONLY FREQUENCY 50 H Z. 0.66 AMP / RETURN TO SUPPLIER FOR REPAIR Across bottom: PATENTS PENDING / MADE IN HONG KONGbraun electrics, personal appliances, hair styling

A wide range of items have been created as souvenirs to represent the Hume Weir on the Murray River. Work on Hume Dam started in 1919 and took 17 years to complete. Souvenir items have included chinaware, ashtrays, placemats and small jewellery items such as this tie pin. This tie pin was created as a souvenir for the town of Tallangatta. In the 1950s, the height of the Hume Weir wall was increased, resulting in a nine metre rise in the level of the water in Lake Hume. This necessitated the moving of most of the town of Old Tallangatta due to flooding. The transfer of the township by the State Rivers and Waters Supply Commission to a new site approximately 8 kilometres to the west was completed on 29 June 1956.This item is representative of many items commemorating the Hume Weir and the township of Tallangatta.A small metal and enamelled oval tie pin. It features and image of the Hume Weir.Around top edge in white: TALLANGATTA Around bottom edge" HUME WEIR"hume weir australia, tallangatta, tallangatta - the town that moved

The Wodonga line and train station opened in November 1873 when the section of the line from Wangaratta was completed. The expansion of the railways to the northeast of Victoria occurred after the Victorian Government took over the railways in 1867 and the trains serviced large towns such as Seymour, Wangaratta and Wodonga, as well as smaller towns along the way. The north- east train line to Wodonga remained a significant factor in the development of Wodonga as a rural city in the 20th century. The Past Officers Certificate has local significance as it was presented to Wodonga resident, Lachlan McEachern, who was President of the Wodonga Sub-Branch of the Victorian Branch of the Australian Railways Union, and there are other items that belonged to Mr Eachern in the collection of the Wodonga Historical Society. It also has wider significance as an example of a Past Officers certificate dated to the 1920s, as other examples in the collection of Museums Victoria are later and are dated to the 1930s, 1940s and 1950s. Dark brown wooden frame with a lighter brown wood and gold inner border on a Past Officers Certificate from the Victorian Branch of the Australian Railways Union, presented to L. McEachern in 1926, in recognition of services rendered as President of the Wodonga Sub-Branch. The certificate is a colour lithograph with black and white photolithograph images and a red embossed seal. The inscription on the certificate is surrounded by two Corinthian columns and a background illustration of a signal gantry at Flinders St Station. The signatures of the State President and State Secretary are faded. At the bottom of the certificate, there are black and white images of a suburban electric passenger train, "Unity Hall" which is the building where the Australian Railway Union offices were located and a steam train."AUSTRALIAN RAILWAYS UNION" "A.R.U" "AUSTRALIAN RAILWAYS / UNION / VICTORIAN BRANCH" "Presented to / L.McEachern / In Recognition / of Services Rendered / As President / of the Wodonga Sub-Branch /Year 1926" "State President / State Secretary"australian railways union, a.r.u., a.r. u. victorian branch, wodonga sub-branch, victorian railways, v.r., past officers certificate, flinders st station, railway unions, trade unions

The five cell metal torch from c. 1950s has local significance due to being used by Wodonga resident, Bill Harris, in his youth, as well as historical significance due to its age and representativeness.Metal torch with a plated yellow surface around the light bulb and a long grip with repeated bands of three lines in the surface and a sliding on-off button."EVEREADY / TRADE-MARK / MADE IN HONG KONG" - on the base of the torch.1950s torches, metal torches, eveready torches, five cell torches, vintage torches

The Wodonga Historical Society Haeusler Collection provides invaluable insight into life in late nineteenth and early twentieth century north east Victoria. The collection comprises manuscripts, personal artefacts used by the Haeusler family on their farm in Wodonga, and a set of glass negatives which offer a unique visual snapshot of the domestic and social lives of the Haeusler family and local Wodonga community. The Haeusler family migrated from Prussia (Germany) to South Australia in the 1840s and 1850s, before purchasing 100 acres of Crown Land made available under the Victorian Lands Act 1862 (also known as ‘Duffy’s Land Act’) in 1866 in what is now Wodonga West. The Haeusler family were one of several German families to migrate from South Australia to Wodonga in the 1860s. This child's money box was manufactured by British toy company Chad Valley, owned by the supermarket chain Sanisbury's. It is one of many items in the Wodonga Historical Society's Haeusler Collection that reflects domestic life and childhood in rural Australia in the early to mid twentieth century.This item has well documented provenance and a known owner. It forms part of a significant and representative historical collection which reflects the local history of Wodonga. It contributes to our understanding of domestic and family life in early twentieth century Wodonga, as well as providing interpretative capacity for themes including local history, social history, and the history of childhood. A black, gold and red money tin with a coin slot on a hinged lid. On back of tin on hinge of lid ""CHAD VALLEY"/'ENGLAND/10167"toy, child, children, money, money box

Kodak manufactured and distributed a wide range of photographic products to Australasia, and operated a plant in Abbotsford, NSW from 1908 to the late 1950s.A light tan paper packet printed with a black green, yellow and red design, containing Kodak photographic paper.photograph, photography, photos, history of photography, kodak, photographic equipment, wodonga

Kodak manufactured and distributed a wide range of photographic products to Australasia, and operated a plant in Abbotsford, NSW from 1908 to the late 1950s.A light tan paper packet printed with a black green, yellow and red design, containing Kodak photographic paper.photograph, photography, photos, history of photography, kodak, photographic equipment, wodonga

The first transistor radio (the Regency TR-1) was produced by Regency Electronics in cooperation with Texas Instruments in 1954. Transistor 4 , the AWA transistor radio was manufactured by Amalgamated Wireless Australasia Limited (AWA), Australia's largest and most prominent twentieth century producer of radios, televisions, audio and telecommunications equipment. Transistor radios went on to become the most popular electronic communication device of the 1960s and 1970s. Billions of transistor radios are estimated to have been sold worldwide between the 1950s and 2012. They were exceptionally popular amongst young people in Australia due to their portability, allowing them to be taken wherever you wanted to gather with friends or, due to the headphone attachment, without disturbing those around you. These pocket radios are representative of technological developments which had a vast influence on social life and activities throughout Australia.4 pocket transistor radios of various brands. No. 1 orange Sanyo RP 1280 manufactured in 1979/1980. No2. is white bakelite No. 2 K--181 pocket transistor made by the Kmart Corporation c1975 and No. 3 is a Nation Brand AM Portable Receiver made in Hong Kong c1980. No. 4 Is an AWA Radiola B121 Solid State pocket transistor. All of them include a socket to plug in an ear piece.No. 1 on the front "SANYO RP 1280 and tuning dial. On the back: "SANYO MODEL RP 1280/ DC 3 V 2 x "AA" BATTERY/ SANYO ELECTRIC CO. LTD." No. 2 on the front "K-181" and tuning dial. On the back "Code 600-857/ AM POCKET RADIO/DC-3VC (UM-3x2)/ART 181. HONG KONG" No. 3 AM Portable Receiver Nation Brand on front No 4. on the front: below dial - AWA Radiola B121 ad at bottom "SOLID STATE" On the back: AWA Thorn Consumer Products Pty. Ltd./Model No. B121/Batteries 2 x UM-3 OR AA Cells/AM 520 -1620KHz/ Serial No. 75686/ Made in Hong Kong"radio communications, transistor radio

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

The Baby-Max is a Japanese subminiature camera popular in the 1950s and 1960s. It was often sold in a pack containing the camera, case and boxes of Kikufilm Panchromatic, a film specialised for toy cameras. Each film took ten 14x14mm images on 17.5mm paper backed roll. It was manufactured by Tougodo, a Japanese camera maker, active from 1930 to the early 1960s. The film with this camera has an expiry date of November 1962.This item is significant due to its popularity in the 1950s and demonstration of the evolution of camera technology.The Baby-Max is a Japanese subminiature camera. It has an elongated body with polygonal ends. The viewfinder is integrated in the top casing. There is a knob on the photographer's right to roll the film and there is a small fake knob on the left. The back is hinged to the right and locked by a sliding bar on the left. It contains a single uncovered window in the middle. The lens has a fixed focus and aperture, and has no markings. There is a lever to operate the shutter. The case is of brown faux leather. It is accompanied by a box of KIKUFILM.Around the central lens: "BABY-MAX / MADE IN JAPAN"baby max camera, cameras, cameras 1950

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.Wodonga, High Street West Businesses including W. Hicks & Son (Wine and Spirit Merchants), T. B. Erlandsen & Son. Thorald Erlandsen purchased these premises in the 1950s. The building was previously owned by John Whan. It started out as a general store but was later extended to include a drapers. The building sold in 1966 to Manns. Verandahs with posts were banned in 1960 but had 10 years to comply. W. Hicks & Son was an old style emporium and sold everything from hardware to haberdashery, wine and spirits, and grocery lines. McHarg's Solicitors was established in 1932 when John Charles (Jack) McKenzie-McHarg opened his legal practice in High Street, Wodonga in the Belvoir Chambers. There was also a dentist Mr. N. McDonough who had rooms upstairs in the 1950s.wodonga businesses, high st wodonga, t. b. erlandsen & son, belvoir chambers

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.Wodonga, High Street West Businesses including T. B. Erlandsen & Son. and the Terminus Hotel. Thorald Erlandsen purchased his premises in the 1950s. The building was previously owned by John Whan. It started out as a general store but was later extended to include a drapers. The building sold in 1966 to Manns. The Terminus Hotel was built in 1873. It was purchased by Annie and George Allen in 1879. In 1888 they added extensions including a billiard room, a dining room and 18 other rooms. After the death of her husband, Annie Allen continued to run the Terminus Hotel. She later married John Haldon and was licensee of the hotel until 1893 when the license was transferred to William Carkeek. Carkeeks owned the hotel from 1900 - 1903 and again from 1906 - 1909. It was destroyed by fire in 1998 and the building demolished in 1999. In 2021 it is the location of Tristar Medical Centre.wodonga businesses, high st wodonga, t. b. erlandsen & son, terminus hotel

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.These businesses were located just north of the railway crossing between Melbourne Road and Bond Street. The railway signals can be seen in the background above Peter’s Fish Café. These buildings have all been demolished and the area is now part of Junction place. Jim Matthews was selling Radiola car radios. He also sold used furniture and had a bike repair business at this location, before later expanding his bike business on the south of the railway crossing, Peters Cafe was at 103 High Street. It was operated by the Bouteris family in the early 1970s. It later became the Chao Thai Restaurant. Vee Jay Radio was operated by Mr. Albert Eddie Branwhite. He moved to Wodonga in 1946 and started selling radio repairs door to door. He then set up his store in 105 High Street. This site had previously been a barber’s shop. The business involved electrical repairs and appliance sales. In the late 1950s Mr. Branwhite established the Wodonga Express. He set the type and printed from the back of this shop until relocating to the Lincoln Causeway. He was actively involved in the community, including many years on the Wodonga Hospital Board of Management which was recognised with a life governorship. Mr. Branwhite passed away in 2001, wodonga businesses, high st wodonga, vee jay radio, jim matthews, peter’s fish café, mr. albert eddie branwhite

Standard Telephones and Cables Pty Ltd was a telecommunications company that began as part of Western Electric, a telephone manufacturing company set up by Alexander Graham Bell. Following the First World War, Western Electric diversified to include electric generators and wireless receivers, all still imported. In 1925, Western Electric was sold to the International Telephone and Telegraph Company. In Australia, it became known as Standard Telephones and Cables (Australasia) They worked closely the Postmaster Generals department to set up telephone and radio networks throughout Australia. Its first factory was in Chippendale, New South Wales but ut developed to have branches in all stated of Australia. By the end of the Second World War STC was Australia's biggest manufacturer due to its critical role in producing telecommunications equipment, domestic radio receivers, telecom cables, military equipment and electron tubes. The company returned to peacetime manufacture. Rather than reduce staff it used its excess capacity to produce electric irons and other domestic appliances including vacuum cleaners and floor polishers. This model was produced at the beginning of the 1950s. It was once owned by Mr. Stiff from Stiff and Gannon, Wodonga.This item has local and national significance. It was used in a local Wodonga business and is representative of domestic appliances used in the 1950s. It also has national significance as it is an excellent example of good produced by the manufacturing industry in Australia during that period.Model 30 Airzone Vacuum Cleaner and accessories. Manufactured in AustraliaMetal logo for Airzone including engine specificationsdomestic appliances, standard telephones and cables pty ltd

This desk or table-top electric fan marked is typical of the fans popular in the 1930s through to the 1950s. The fans were made for use in the home, office or factory and were produced in a variety of sizes. They were available in both fixed and oscillating models with different speeds. The fans cost several weeks of a man's average wage at the time and were promoted not only as improving comfort in the home but also increasing efficiency at work. With the development of air-conditioning from the 1960s and its increasing use in the workplace and then into the home, fans declined in popularity. This fan was manufactured by the Engineering & Construction Company (ELCON) an Australian owned and patented company originally based in Melbourne, Victoria in the late 1920s. The company became a subsidiary of the Electricity Meter & Allied Industries Ltd (EMAIL) in 1939. Then in 1946 they were decentralised to Orange, New South Wales. EMAIL brands included Email, Emailair, Westinghouse, Carmichael, Elcon, Metters and Weatherall. Electrolux purchased the major appliance division of Email in 2001.This item is representative of early electric fans manufactured in Australia in the early to mid 20th century. They were widely used throughout Australian homes and workplaces prrior to the development of airconditioning.This early electric table fan has four metal blades attached to an egg shaped enclosed motor. Each blade is attached with three rivets. The fan has a wire safety guard surrounding the blades. This is attached to a circular metal base.There is a switch in the centre of the base to adjust speed. A knob at the back of the fan enables its position to be adjusted. There is no longer any branding visible on the fan but it has been identified as an ELCON fan manufacured in Australia. The electrical cord is not the original which has been replaced.electric fans, home appliances, elcon fans

This model of knapsack sprayer was used for both agricultural and firefighting purposes throughout Australia. The manufacturer, A. Simpson & Son who had a long history as a prominent metals manufacturer in Adelaide, South Australia. Alfred Simpson arrived in South Australia in 1849 and by the mid 1950s had established himself as a tinsmith. His son, also Alfred, joined the business in 1864. By the time of Alfred senior's death in 1891, A. Simpson and Son had the largest metal manufacturing plant in Australia. The business was incorporated in 1910, with Alfred as chairman, and his sons Allen and Frederick as directors. During World War I the company also manufactured munitions as well as ordnance. In the 1920s the company expanded into the production of tools for use in agriculture and in the 1940s they began the manufacture of whitegoods. In 1963 A. Simpson and Son merged with Pope Industries to form Simpson Pope Holdings.This item is representative of agricultural equipment used throughout Australia by a major Australian manufacturer. They were used extensively in the Wodonga district. A Backpack Sprayer unit made from galvanised iron used for agricultural and fire-fighting purposes. It has a nozzle spray attachment and originally had leather straps.On side: SIMPSON PAT. 11?472 23/7/39fire equipment, a. simpson & son, agricultural tools

Inspired by a visit to the USA in the early 1950s, Hoyts' Southern Division manager George Griffith Jnr, formed a syndicate to build Australia’s first Drive-in located in Burwood. Drive-ins soon spread throughout the country. One of the earliest Skyline Drive-ins in rural Victoria was built in Wodonga, opening in 1956. It was located on the southwest corner of Melrose Drive and Melbourne Road and had a capacity of 643 vehicles. Its first screening was "The Broken Lance" with Richard Widmark, Spencer and Robert Wagner. The first manager of Skyline was Jim Robinson. The original screen was made from timber but had to be replaced only 20 years later with an all steel structure. The Wodonga Skyline became part of the Hoyts Country Theatres circuit and was later joined by the Stargazer drive-in located in Albury. Unlike most drive-in theatres, the snack bar was located under the screen. This allowed it to operate during the day to cater to travellers passing on the Hume Highway. When Hoyts decided to sell most of the regional circuit, the Skyline was purchased by the operator of the Albury Cinema, Mr A. Smith in conjunction with Village Roadshow. The Skyline closed in 1984 and was demolished in 1987. Its former location in Wodonga is now a housing estate whose street names, such as Roadshow Drive, Universal Court and Paramount Court, reflect the area’s history.These photos are significant because they document a popular venue in Wodonga's past.A series of photographs depicting the Skyline Drive-in at Wodonga.skyline drive-in, entertainment wodonga, businesses wodonga

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

Kodak manufactured and distributed a wide range of photographic products to Australasia, and operated a plant in Abbotsford, NSW from 1908 to the late 1950s.A brown rectangular cardboard box with manufacturers and production information printed on face. Hand drawn inscription in pencil in proper right corner: "14 - 3 - 63" Hand drawn arrow in bottom centre. Ineligible mark in black marker in centre proper left. photograph, photography, photos, history of photography, kodak, photographic equipment, wodonga

The Hamilton-Smith collection was donated by the children of Grace Mary Hamilton-Smith nee Ellwood (1911-2004) and John Hamilton-Smith (1909-1984) who settled in Wodonga in the 1940s. The Ellwood family had lived in north-east Victoria since the late 1800s. Grace’s mother, Rosina Ellwood nee Smale, was the first teacher at Baranduda in 1888, and a foundation member of the C.W.A. Rosina and her husband Mark retired to Wodonga in 1934. Grace and John married at St. David’s Church, Albury in 1941. John was a grazier, and actively involved in Agricultural Societies. The collection contains significant items which reflect the local history of Wodonga, including handmade needlework, books, photographs, a wedding dress, maps, and material relating to the world wars. This item has well documented provenance and a known owner. It forms part of a significant and representative historical collection which reflects the local history of Wodonga. It contributes to our understanding of social and family life in early twentieth century Wodonga, as well as providing interpretative capacity for themes including local history and social history. A black and white photograph in a white painted wooden frame. It features Jack Hamilton-Smith mounted on his horse.hamilton-smith collection, hamilton-smith, ellwood, horse, horse riding, photograph, photography, portrait photography

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

This crocheted sauce bottle cover was made and used by Esther Elizabeth Hore at the Bogong Hotel. She was the wife of John Richard Hore who owned the Bogong Hotel from the early 1890s. In 1925 their daughter Myrtle Anne Hore (Dolly) moved to Tawonga with her husband Rod Barton. Rod worked to rebuild the hotel by constructing a series of bungalows behind the existing building. The next generation of the Hore Family continued to operate the hotel until the early 1950s. Rod and Dolly Barton later moved to the family dairy farm "Kent Meadows” in Gundrowing on land which had been selected in the 1860s by Rod’s father. Here they raised a family of six sons and six daughters through the hard years of the Depression and World War II. Dolly and the older children carried on the work on the farm whilst Rod was away on active service, as well as being actively involved in the Red Cross, Church Guild, CWA and Fire Brigade. Dolly passed away on 28th February 1991. This item was donated to Wodonga & District Historical Society by Betty Barberis nee Barton, a recognised artist both locally and internationally, one of Dolly’s 12 children.This item is significant because it is representative of traditional crafts in the late 19th and early 20th centuries and was owned by a prominent Wodonga and District family.A crocheted cotton cover designed to be placed over a sauce bottle. It has been made for decorative purposes only.traditional crafts, handcraft, barton family of gundrowing