The bridge over Wodonga Creek was opened on Friday 20th October 1922 by the Minister For Public Works Mr Frank. The erection of the bridge was carried out by Mr L Carr, of Brighton. The new concrete bridge was a little more than 500 feet long and consisted of 12 spans. The decking was supported by a number of steel girders, each weighing approximately seven tons. The whole bridge was supported by rows of three cylinders, sunk to a depth of 26ft below the summer water level. The original estimated cost of the structure was £20,000, but with the extras added during construction this amount was exceeded.These photos are significant because the capture the construction of an important bridge between Albury and Wodonga.Three black and white photographs taken during the construction of the new bridge over the Wodonga Creek in 1920.wodonga bridges, wodonga creek

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

Our Collection includes several photographs signed BONSEMA WODONGA or sometimes simply TBW. Thomas Peter John Bonsema was born in Wodonga in 1876 to Peter John Bonsema and Mary Ann nee Nash. His name first appears on the Electoral Roll for Wodonga in 1909 and on the Electoral Roll in 1912 he is listed as a photographer. His photographs capture many scenes and events around Wodonga and surrounding areas. Thomas Bonsema married Minna Louisa Jones in 1912. By 1914 he had moved to Chiltern, Victoria where he established Bonsema’s Photographic Studio. From this time onward many of his works bore the signature “BONSEMA CHILTERN”. As well as continuing to photograph landscapes and important buildings, Mr Bonsema was often the official photographer at school and community celebrations. He also sold many framed photographs and postcards from his premises at 68 -70 Conness Street, Chiltern. By 1943 Thomas John Bonsema had relocated to New South Wales and died in Beecroft, NSW on 14th July 1944. Some of his photographs are held in the Victorian State Library and Mitchell Library Sydney Collections.This image is significant because it is the work of a recognised photographer Thomas Bonsema who was born in Wodonga in 1876.A black and white image of two men on the Bonegilla Bridge near Wodonga.At bottom of the image:- Bonegilla Bridge and the Kiewa River Bonsema Wodongabonsema photography, upper murray region, thomas peter john bonsema

The Advocate was the Catholic newspaper of Victoria. The correspondence is in regard to payment and receipt of the newspapers.4 letters, 2 with envelopes. Chronological order: 1. 11 Jan 1927. From George W. Maddison, Tawonga P. O. Via Dederang to Mrs E. Stiles re money for 'Leader'. 2. 5th Apr. 1928. From Melbourne to Mrs Stiles, Melbourne re Account or "Advocate' 3. late July 1928. From Miss Mary Hessian, Mongans Bridge. Via Wodonga to Mrs Stiles re 'advocate' 4. 28th Jan. 1929 From Chas Martin to Mrs Wallace Bonnie Brae, Bruarong re Mrs Stiles papers. Envelopes: 1. (letter 3)Mrs Stiles c/- Miss Reid 26 Hoddle St. Elsternwick S-4 and in pencil Miss Mary Hessian, Mongan's Bridge, Huon via Wodonga 2. (letter 4) Mrs Wallace, Wallacedale, Kergunyah.mrs e. stiles, mary hessian, george w. maddison, mr wallace, 'advocate' newspaper, chas martin

Customs duties were a means of raising revenue between the 1850s and Federation. They were first introduced by NSW in November 1854 after it was separated from the colony of Victoria three years earlier. J P Hanify was appointed as sub-collector at Belvoir, the official name present day Wodonga at that time. Wodonga Customs House was built near the end of Union Bridge over the Murray River in 1859 Tariffs or customs duties greatly angered residents and it was little wonder the customs officer of the day was always an unpopular man. Tariffs had to be paid on articles such as tobacco, many food items and new clothing that were carried across the Border. The range of items was extended over time, leading to some farmers even swimming their livestock across the river to avoid duties at the Customs house. The levying of duties ended with Federation in 1901. Francis Cobham depicted in this photograph, took up the position of Customs officer in 1867 and remained there until his retirement in 1890. The building was originally a 2 roomed custom house in 1856 but was extended to provide living quarters for the Cobham family while a nearby cottage became the Customs house. The building was moved to a position south of the lagoon in the mid 1980s and is now a restaurant.This image represents an important stage in the development of colonial relationships and rivalries in Australia.Black and white photograph of Customs officer Francis Cobham in Wodonga c 1860customs house wodonga, albury wodonga border, colonial rivalry victoria /nsw, tariffs

This item is from a collection donated by descendants of John Francis Turner of Wodonga. It is one of many souvenirs produced to represent landmarks in the Albury-Wodonga district. The first punt across the Murray River at Albury was established by Robert Brown in 1843. In 1861 the first Union Bridge was built. It was demolished to make way for the second Union Bridge which opened in 1898. This second bridge closed and was eventually demolished after the third and existing bridge was opened in 1961. Hancock and Sons, Stoke on Trent - Sampson Hancock, a prominent Wesleyan Methodist, started potting in 1857. In 1891 he established the business of Sampson Hancock & Sons. Sampson died in 1900 and the business was continued by his three sons - Jabez, Harry and Arthur. In 1935 the business was in financial difficulty and was made bankrupt. It was restarted as S Hancock & Sons (Potters) Ltd. and moved to the Gordon Works, Hanley - which was renamed the Corona Works. The restarted company was not a success and it finally closed in 1937, having been put into receivership on 23rd March. This information helps to establish provenance of this plate.This item comes from a collection used by a prominent citizen of Wodonga. It is representative of a items produced to represent historic landmarks or features of the district.Fine China round plate with gilt edge and image of the Union Bridge, AlburyBeneath image: " THE BRIDGE OVER THE MURRAY AT ALBURY, NSWALESalbury souvenirs, union bridge albury, albury-wodonga border, murray river bridges

The Border United Co-operative Breweries Limited was formed in 1911 by the amalgamation of The Albury Brewing and Malting Company Limited and The Anglo-Australian Brewery Company Proprietary Limited which operated breweries in Beechworth, Tallangatta and Yarrawonga. The Anglo-Australian Brewery was owned by the Billson family. By August the new plant was operating near the Union Bridge on the border of Victoria and NSW as shown in this photo. However the enterprise failed in August 1914 when not enough co-operative shares could be sold and also due to declining water quality. In December 1914 its spirit merchant’s license was transferred to the newly established Murray River Proprietary Company. In 1922, the brewery and 32 acres of land was sold to Mr E E Waite. Waite sold the buildings for removal.This image represents buildings related to early industries in the Albury-Wodonga region.Black and white image of brewery buildings. The image has been mounted on board.On building wall: "The BORDER INITED CO-OP BREWERIES LTD/LICENSED BREWERS"breweries northeast victoria, murray breweries, manufacturing history albury wodonga

Cudgewa Line -The Cudgewa railway line opened in stages between 1889 and 1921. The first section from Wodonga to Huon opened on 10 September 1889. It was extended to Bolga on 18 July 1890, Tallangatta on 24 July 1891, Shelley on 13 June 1916 (the highest station in Victoria), Beetomba on 10 April 1919 and Cudgewa on 5 May 1921. The line had 1 in 30 grades and trestle bridges that have been heritage listed. In 1919, the line was used to carry materials for the construction of Hume Weir, and three years later a spur line connecting Ebden to the weir was opened. In the 1960s, Cudgewa became the railhead of materials for the Snowy Mountains Scheme. The last passenger service from Wodonga to Tallangatta ran on 30 September 1961. The turntable and passenger platform at Cudgewa were abolished in 1976. This fish plate came from the rails of the Cudgewa Line at Gordon Roy's hut which was situated behind Perry's Stump Hotel outside Wodonga. The hut was used as an office with the points lever outside to switch trucks to different tracks on the Bandiana and Cudgewa lines.This item is significant as it was part of the railway line to Cudgewa which played an important role in North east Victoria carrying freight during the construction of the Hume Weir and the Snowy Mountains Scheme.A section of flat plate. These plates were used in pairs to connect the ends of adjacent rails in railway track. victorian railways, cudgewa rail line, railway components

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. Woodland Grove is located in the triangular reserve at the corner of High and Hovell Streets, Wodonga. ‘Woodland Grove". It was named in honour of John Woodland at the same time as the opening of the band rotunda in September 1920. John Woodland, Wodonga Shire’s first president, was born in Kent, England, in 1829 and came to Sydney with his parents in 1839. He arrived in the Wodonga district about 1853, where he created a successful carrier's business. He first lived on the Old Barnawartha Estate and a few years later purchased land at Green Hills, Wodonga West, where he farmed and also ran a hotel. The hotel licence was relinquished to give attention to duties as secretary and clerk of works to Wodonga Shire, which was then the Wodonga Riding of the Shire of Yackandandah. He was a main agitator for the separation of Wodonga district from Yackandandah Shire. This was successful in 1876, and he became the first president of Wodonga Shire. He held this post for two years, then taking on the role of shire secretary in 1878 until 1913. He concurrently undertook the role of clerk of works (engineer) from 1896 to 1907. As clerk of works he prepared the plans and specifications for, and supervised the construction of the big bridges on the Albury road and at Bonegilla and other important works. In his mid 70s, he proffered his resignation on a number of occasions but it was not accepted. Despite physical weakness and impaired vision, John continued his duties to the end, with the help of his daughter Rose Murphy. Rose became shire secretary for 20 years after her father’s death in 1913.This photo collection is significant as it documents the naming of a public area in Wodonga to honour an original and long-serving member of the Wodonga Shire Council.A black and white photo of Woodland Grove in High Street, Wodonga. It includes the rotunda, the water tower and the soldier's memorial. There is a post and wire fence in the foreground as well as several trees and rose bushes. Beneath the photo: "WOODLAND GROVE / Rotunda - Water Tower - Memorial"high st wodonga, woodland grove, john woodland

Cudgewa Line -The Cudgewa railway line opened in stages between 1889 and 1921. The first section from Wodonga to Huon opened on 10 September 1889. It was extended to Bolga on 18 July 1890, Tallangatta on 24 July 1891 and then to Shelley on 13 June 1916. Shelley was the highest station in Victoria. It extended further on to Beetomba on 10 April 1919 and finally reached Cudgewa on 5 May 1921. The line had 1 in 30 grades and trestle bridges that have been heritage listed. In 1919, the line was used to carry materials for the construction of Hume Weir, and three years later a spur line connecting Ebden to the weir was opened. In the 1960s, Cudgewa became the railhead of materials for the Snowy Mountains Scheme. The last passenger service from Wodonga to Tallangatta ran on 30 September 1961. The turntable and passenger platform at Cudgewa were abolished in 1976. These stamps were used by Joh Murray who for many years worked with Victorian Railways based at Wodonga.A leather pouch with belt and lock. It bears a metal name tag inscribed with name of railway station. The pouch contains 3 station stamps, a date stamp and 2 carriage keys.On pouch WODONGA On stamps: BONEGILLA 1470/ EBDEN 1471/ BANDOLIER 1473cudgewa rail line, victorian railways, closed victorian railways, railway stamps

Cudgewa Line -The Cudgewa railway line opened in stages between 1889 and 1921. The first section from Wodonga to Huon opened on 10 September 1889. It was extended to Bolga on 18 July 1890, Tallangatta on 24 July 1891 and then to Shelley on 13 June 1916. Shelley was the highest station in Victoria. It extended further on to Beetomba on 10 April 1919 and finally reached Cudgewa on 5 May 1921. The line had 1 in 30 grades and trestle bridges that have been heritage listed. In 1919, the line was used to carry materials for the construction of Hume Weir, and three years later a spur line connecting Ebden to the weir was opened. In the 1960s, Cudgewa became the railhead of materials for the Snowy Mountains Scheme. The last passenger service from Wodonga to Tallangatta ran on 30 September 1961. The turntable and passenger platform at Cudgewa were abolished in 1976.6 Rubber and wood stamps used in the stations along the Cudgewa Line. The stamps were primarily used to acknowledge receipt of small freight items carried on the Cudgewa LineOn individual stamps: 1. TALLANGATTA 1476 2. BULLIOH 1477 3. BEETOOMBA 1484 4. KOETONG 1480 5. SHELLEY 1482 6. CORRYONG 1487cudgewa rail line, victorian railways, closed victorian railways

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.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.Eric Molloy preparing Locomotive H220 "Heavy Harry" for another run. Eric was born on 11 August 1906. He started cleaning with the Victorian Railways on 26 November 1926. Eric passed his Driver qualification on 1 December 1943. "Heavy Harry" - H220 was the only locomotive constructed in this class. The H class is the largest locomotive built to operate on the Victorian Railways. He was built at Newport in 1941 as the first of three mighty locomotives to haul the Overland Express to Adelaide, each to take the place of two ordinary locomotives. H220 entered service on 7 February 1941. Known as “Heavy Harry”, he never fulfilled his destiny, because bridges and tracks were not strong enough to carry his 260 tons (with tender). The war put an end to plans to strengthen the line and to build the other two locomotives. As a result, the locomotive spent its entire service life on the Northeast line as this was the only other line on which it could operate. It was used mainly on fast goods trains with an occasional run on an express passenger train and typically completed five return trips a week between Melbourne and Wodonga, covering around 1,875 miles per week. H220 continued in service until it was withdrawn for an overhaul on 20 May 1956. H220 was stored rather than overhauled, and never returned to service. It was written off the VR locomotive register on 30 April 1958. and was put on display in the Newport Railway Museum in 1962. In April 2008, 50 years after its official withdrawal from service, H220 was added to the Victorian Heritage Register. railways wodonga, fred rochow, wodonga railwaymen, locomotive h220, "heavy harry", eric molloy

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.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.A livestock special being hauled by Locomotive K109 passing over a high trestle bridge between Bullion and Darbyshire on the Cudgewa Line. Cudgewa Line -The Cudgewa railway line opened in stages between 1889 and 1921. The first section from Wodonga to Huon opened on 10 September 1889. It was extended to Bolga on 18 July 1890, Tallangatta on 24 July 1891, Shelley on 13 June 1916 (the highest station in Victoria), Beetomba on 10 April 1919 and Cudgewa on 5 May 1921. The line had 1 in 30 grades and trestle bridges that have been heritage listed. In 1919, the line was used to carry materials for the construction of Hume Weir, and three years later a spur line connecting Ebden to the weir was opened. In the 1960s, Cudgewa became the railhead of materials for the Snowy Mountains Scheme. The last passenger service from Wodonga to Tallangatta ran on 30 September 1961 The turntable and passenger platform at Cudgewa were abolished in 1976. The K class was a branch line steam locomotive that ran on Victorian Railways in Australia from 1922 to 1979 Locomotive K190 entered service on Saturday, 30th June 1923. In 1940 it was renumbered as K149 The locomotive was eventually scrapped on Thursday, 12th October 1967.railways wodonga, fred rochow, wodonga railwaymen, cudgewa rail line, trestle bridges

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.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.Railway men walking along the Wodonga Railway Platform. The sign overhead advises of changes to the Tallangatta and Shelley lines. Cudgewa Line -The Cudgewa railway line opened in stages between 1889 and 1921. The first section from Wodonga to Huon opened on 10 September 1889. It was extended to Bolga on 18 July 1890, Tallangatta on 24 July 1891 and then to Shelley on 13 June 1916. Shelley was the highest station in Victoria. It extended further on to Beetomba on 10 April 1919 and finally reached Cudgewa on 5 May 1921. The line had 1 in 30 grades and trestle bridges that have been heritage listed. In 1919, the line was used to carry materials for the construction of Hume Weir, and three years later a spur line connecting Ebden to the weir was opened. In the 1960s, Cudgewa became the railhead of materials for the Snowy Mountains Scheme. The last passenger service from Wodonga to Tallangatta ran on 30 September 1961. The turntable and passenger platform at Cudgewa were abolished in 1976. On sign hanging overhead "WODONGA/ CHANGE FOR TALLANGATTA AND SHELLEY LINES"railways wodonga, fred rochow, wodonga railwaymen, cudgewa rail line, wodonga railway station

non-fictionThe spectacular mountain railway from Wodonga to Cudgewa in north eastern Victoria was one of Australia's truly fascinating branch lines, and the most challenging to operate on the Victorian Railways. It was a railway of scenic splendour, famous for its towering wooden bridges, notoriously steep grades, Hereford cattle and K class steam locomotives. This lavishly illustrated publication includes over 100 colour and B&W photographs, and tells the story of the railway through the memories of Cudgewa railway enginemen, station masters, bridge gangers,railroads victoria, railways cudgewa, railways wodonga, railways high country

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. 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.The bridge at Sandy Creek, near Tallangatta in Victoria. The construction of the bridge was necessitated by the extension of the Hume Weir. Due to the higher water line railway lines and roads had to be relocated. The bridge was built on 45 sets of concrete pillars, each set 42 feet apart. The line to Tallangatta was closed in 1981 and the bridge deck was removed in 1987.railways wodonga, fred rochow, high country rail trail, sandy creek bridge

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. 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.The concrete pylons which were all that remained when the bridge decking was removed. The line to Tallangatta was closed in 1981 and the bridge deck was removed in 1987.railways wodonga, fred rochow, high country rail trail, sandy creek bridge

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. 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.The removal of the bridge decking in progress. The line to Tallangatta was closed in 1981 and the bridge deck was removed in 1987.railways wodonga, fred rochow, high country rail trail, sandy creek bridge

non-fictionA great local history of the Wodonga area. Starts with discussion of the Aboriginal inhabitants of the region and early contacts with European explorers and settlers. Explains the establishing of a customs post with its twin city Albury on the other side of the Murray River. The town grew subsequent to the opening of the first bridge across the Murray in 1860. Originally named Wodonga, its name was changed to Belvoir then later back to Wodonga.victoria. wodonga, settlers wodonga, indigenous australians wodonga

non-fictionA detailed study of horsemanship in Australia incorporating the general teachings of the bushman and those of the Show and Race rider. This valuable study of riding bridges the gap in literature between the working and sporting worlds of the horse. Different riding styles and all items of essential equipment and their maintenance are discussed against a background of extensive experience and practical knowledge.horsemanship, role of horses australia

A photocopy of the original publication with annotations.non-fictionThe final linking of the railway systems of Victoria and NSW at Albury-Wodonga was finally achieved in June 1883 when a temporary railway bridge across the Murray River was opened. A grand celebration was held in Albury to mark the occasion. This book details the significance of the railway and the celebrations of 1883.railways australia, railway albury wodonga, history railways

The dairy farm of Eric Lemke and family was located on the Wodonga flats on the Murray River flood plain, west of the Union Bridge. The property was named "Waterford". They ran a large dairy herd (250 cows) and ran five milk carts to Albury to service their customers. The family bought a second property at Wodonga West, on Felltimber Creek, where herds could be rested before calving, and also as an emergency location for milking during times of flood, which sometimes lasted for several weeks at a time. At other times when the cows finished their lactation period at "Waterford" they would be walked to the Lemke property at Wodonga West, for a rest before calving. When the calves were drafted it was a matter of gathering the cows and calves and walking them back home which was an all day job. During the Depression Mr. Lemke took milk to the out-of-work men who slept under the bridges on the causeway and Mrs Lemke would make bread for them. The men would often work on the farm without wages in return for the Lemke's kindness. The Lemke Family are ranked amongst the top early settlers of the district for their perseverance during the hardships of the early days and during the Great Depression. Lemke Road on Gateway Island, Wodonga is named in their honour.This item has local significance because it came from a prominent Wodonga family business.A small metal tag used to label dairy cans on the property of Eric Lemke.E. LEMKE WODONGAe. lemke wodonga, lemke family, wodonga dairy industry, ernie lemke

With Federation all but a fact Alfred Deakin is again in the Overton area but his meeting has been cancelled. While Montieth is getting some stores he and MacLough observe the drama on the bridge from the nearby Post Office verandah. Coming on top of the deaths of the O'Haras these scenes appal Deakin. In reply to MacLough he says that Federation will do away with the border, and bring free trade between the states of the new Australian Commonwealth. This will permit O'Day to come home as a free man. MacLough queries the fine and Deakin says that it must be paid, but he will have it reduced to £200. On hearing this MacLough declares he will pay the fine himself, and give O'Day a half share partnership in Gooloora as well.The album and images are significant because they document literature written by a prominent member of the Wodonga community. The presentation of this precis was supported by several significant district families and individuals.Ringer's River Album Coloured photo Plate 35des martin, many a mile, ringer's river, northeast victoria stories

The bodies of mother and son are driven side by side to burial while the shops shut down and all Overton turns out for the funeral. Ellen's elder son Con O'Hara, and Sean O'Day ride as outriders to the hearses. Sgt. Baker and his men arrive at the church, the Sgt. approaches Con, declares that no police action will be taken before the town re-opens, and asks if he can provide an escort for the cortege. The funeral over O'Day tarries till after the shops have opened and Sgt. Baker sets a trap for him on the bridge over the Murray. Cornering him on the bridge he says it will give him great pleasure to personally escort him all the way to the police station. "All the way Sergeant?" asks O'Day. "Then come on!" With which he jumps his horse over the rail of the bridge. D.J. Martin on Pampas Air.The album and images are significant because they document literature written by a prominent member of the Wodonga community. The presentation of this precis was supported by several significant district families and individuals.Ringer's River Album Coloured photo Plate 33des martin, many a mile, ringer's river, northeast victoria stories

This utility truck was one of two used by the Albury Gas Co, from the Gas Works in Kiewa Street, Albury to service the coal gas supply system in Albury during the war years from 1939-1945. The gas bags were installed as petrol was in short supply. One of the trucks was driven by John (Jack) Stanley Cruickshank, also known as Wodonga's Gas Man. Jack became foreman for the Wodonga Branch of the Albury Gas Co. An 80 millimetre galvanised steel pipeline was installed from the Albury Gas Co. in Kiewa Street, Albury, to 26 Church Street, Wodonga. A 40 horsepower pump pushed the gas to holding tanks. Sections of the gas pipeline to Wodonga can still be observed under some of the bridges from Albury to Wodonga. Jack also supervised the laying of the gas pipes in the streets of Wodonga, being hand dug by a gang of 15- 20 men. He was Wodonga's first Gas Fitter, both fitting gas appliances and overseeing their maintenance. Jack Cruickshank passed away in 1979 and is buried at the Wodonga Cemetery.This image is significant because it represents the installation of gas supply to Wodonga, Victoria.A black and white photo of a large van with a gas-filled bag on top of it and also a portrait of Jack Cruickshank. Photos are mounted together with text in a wooden frame.jack cruickshank, wodonga gas supply co.

The Bethanga Bridge was built between 1927 and 1930 as a joint venture between Victoria and New South Wales and was a key element of the River Murray Waters Agreement. It consists of nine spans of 82 metres long. Each span is supported between double reinforced concrete pylons and a riveted steel camel back Pratt truss. The overall span of the bridge is a length of 752 metres. It was completed in 1929 at a cost of £194,000. The road deck was initially constructed from timber but was replaced in 1961 with a concrete waffle slab deck 7.7metres wide. In 1961 the bridge deck and truss structure were raised 300 millimetres to allow for the enlargement of the lake. The bridge was designed in NSW by road engineer Percy Alan and the trusses were built by the Charles Ruwolt Pty. Ltd. Charles Ruwolt Pty. Ltd. was originally established by Charles Ruwolt as a foundry at Wangaratta in 1902 and transferred its operations to Richmond, Melbourne in 1914. By 1938 it had become one of the biggest engineering companies in Australia. After Charles Ruwolt’s death in 1946, Vickers Ltd. acquired the company and in 1948 the firm became known as Vickers Ruwolt Pty. Ltd. Because of the Bethanga Bridge’s unique location, over the waters of a dam with the border running down the centre of the body of water, the Bethanga Bridge is the only built structure shared by both Victoria and New South Wales. As the border of New South Wales aligns with the southern bank of the Murray River all of the other bridges along its length are deemed to be in New South Wales. The Bethanga Bridge is listed on both the New South Wales State Heritage Register and the Victorian Heritage Database. In 2015 the Bethanga Bridge was nominated for a heritage award by the Institution of Engineering Australia.These images are significant because they document the construction of a bridge which links Victoria and New South Wales and has been recognised for its historical, technical and engineering significance.A collection of photos documenting the construction of the Bethanga Bridge which links the States of Victoria and New South Wales as part of the construction of the Hume Dam .bethanga bridge, hume dam constuction, charles ruwolt, percy allan engineer

Australian manufactured clasp knives were a standard issue to Australian Military Forces during World War 2. The most commonly encountered knife was an all metal model with a canoe shaped body. This knife was a Whittingslowe first pattern clasp knife which included a blade, a tin opener and a marline spike as well as screw driver and shackle to attach the knife to a lanyard or belt clip. These knives were given a dull Nickel plating to protect them. William Thomas Whittingslowe was born in Wales in 1888, he was educated in England and at 18 migrated to Canada and then to Australia, arriving in about 1912. After working in various states, he settled in South Australia and in the 1920s set up his own business, Whittingslowe Engineers Limited. He specialised in ironworking and knife manufacturing. His firm produced a large amount of blade ware during World War 2. He also designed and built manufacturing equipment for General Motors Holden. He died at Murray Bridge (SA) in 1956.This item is significance because it was donated by a member of the community of Wodonga which has a strong connection to Australian military history.A clasp knife made completely from metal with nickel plating. The accessories all fold into a canoe-shaped body. It included a knife, can opener and marlin spike.On knife blade: WE over a broad arrow/I\australian army equipment ww2, thomas whittingslowe, australian army

The arrival of the railway from Melbourne to Wodonga was celebrated on 21st November 1873. The railway line between Melbourne and Wodonga was constructed in three sections. The first section from Essendon to Seymour was fifty-six miles. It was constructed by Messrs. O'Grady, Leggatt and Noonan at a cost of £305,558. The second section from Seymour to Benalla was sixty miles under contract to Messrs. Styles, Murray and Co. for £314,994. The final section of sixty six miles to Wodonga was constructed by Messrs. Cain, Dalrymple and Holton for £350,100. The Illustrated Australian News for Home Readers 4 December 1873 reported extensively on the event. The Victorian Government was determined to celebrate the event with a banquet, to which twelve hundred guests were invited. Four special trains had departed Melbourne to bring dignitaries to Wodonga. The Governor Sir George Bowen, Lady Bowen and, two Misses Bowen, were among the guests. Sir George Bowen proposed a toast to the “Prosperity to the North-eastern railway”. The banquet was held in marquees erected for the event, although the facilities struggled to cater adequately for the more than 5,000 people who arrived to celebrate. The estimated population of Wodonga was 500 only people. That evening a ball was held in the goods' shed, which was handsomely decorated with flags, evergreens and flowers. About five hundred guests were present. It would be another decade before New South Wales completed the line from Sydney to Albury and a connecting rail bridge was built over the Murray River.This item is significant because it documents the festivities celebrating the arrival of the railway line in Wodonga.A colourised version of a newspaper article documenting the celebrations for the arrival of the North Eastern Railway to Wodonga. It depicts crowds of people congregated near the railway line area. Large tents have been erected to house visitors and special activities. The railway goods shed can be seen in the background and a steam locomotive is on the track. The image was accompanied by a lengthy article which detailed the development of the railway line.northeast railway line, wodonga transport

A small booklet of 56 pages including text and images.The first church in Bethanga was built by the Wesleyans in early 1876 and was also used by other denominations. In early 1886 the Anglican Church was built followed by St Francis Catholic Church later that year. St Francis Church provided a place of worship for nearly 150 years. It was part of the Parish of Wodonga and the Diocese of Sandhurst. The church was relocated in 1917 after it was decided the original location was unsuitable because of the steepness of its approach. Parishioners found it particularly difficult to attend in winter as the surrounds became wet and muddy. Land was purchased which had stables for horses and coaches that would stop between Wodonga and the Upper Murray. Reverend Dr James Flynn hired a carpenter and other workers to demolish the building and cut the church into sections where it was hauled and rebuilt on the new site in Bridge Street, Bethanga. After changing demographics and a dwindling congregation the last regular Mass was held at St Francis in December 2019. Following a decision to close St Francis Catholic Church a final farewell service on was held on 20th August 2022. The building was sold in October 2023.st francis church bethanga, bethanga community

ROCLA was founded by two friends, Walter Robertson and Heaton Clarke, who combined the first letters of their surnames to create the brand name in 1922. The company first came to the Albury – Wodonga area in late 1927 when tenders were called for the construction of their works and office in Kiewa Street, Albury. They were a popular provider of concrete pipe culverts and reinforced concrete troughs for farm use. In 1949 ROCLA began operations at Bandiana. Initially this was to produce pipes for the Snowy Mountains Hydro-Electric Scheme which officially began construction on 17 October 1949. They also provided pipes for the Kiewa Hydro Scheme. Another early major contract for ROCLA was with the Victorian State Rivers and Water Supply Commission for the provision of pipes for the new sewerage system in the new town of Tallangatta, relocated due to the enlargement of the Hume Weir. This contract called for the supply of 21,000 six inch pipes and 7,000 nine inch pipes. At this time ROCLA employed 15 men and this job required about 80 bags of cement per day. By 1964 ROCLA Concrete Pipes was Wodonga’s largest secondary industry. A new concrete pole manufacturing plant was established in the early 1980s. ROCLA poles also dot the landscape in several Australian States. ROCLA poles also hold up many of the Hume Freeway bridge and support the Union Bridge which crosses the Murray River at Albury. After various changes in management, ROCLA was taken over by New Zealand's Fletcher Building group in 2005. In September 2021 ROCLA became part of the Civilmart Group. These images are significant because they record the history of a major manufacturing industry in Wodonga.A collection of photographs and advertisements representing the ROCLA, Wodonga company.manufacturing industries wodonga, rocla wodonga, wodonga industries