\When the railway reached Wodonga from Melbourne on 19th November 1873 the first station building, which included a refreshment room and dining room, was a temporary structure. It was 300 ft. long and was removed and taken to Beechworth when the new station was built in 1874 by contractor J. Richardson. The Goods shed was 100 feet long and was built by Frew & Hill in 1873. One year later it was extended an additional 150 feet by James Nation. The date of the construction of the Locomotive shed is not known but predates 1883. It was a galvanised iron clad building which housed 4 engines on 2 tracks; in 1910 it was extended to 250 feet in length to house six more engines. The location of the railway tracks and station were a constant cause of congestion in the centre of Wodonga as the tracks crossed over Sydney Road (later named High Street). Lines of traffic were frequently banked up as the gates were closed to allow trains to cross. The Wodonga Rail Bypass project moved Wodonga station from the original central location to a position on a new line on the northern edge of the town. Not only did this release land in the middle of the city for commercial and public use, but also eliminated 10 level crossings. The project actually commenced in 2008 with the last passenger train passing through Wodonga on 8 November 2008. On 23 July 2010, the new rail bypass was opened, the original line through Wodonga closed and the station fell quiet. The area has now been redeveloped as Junction Place and the old buildings now house a restaurant, cafe and the Goods Shed Craft Beer Cafe.These images are of local, state and national significance as the Wodonga Railway complex formed a vital link in the Victorian state, interstate and national railway system.A collection of colour photos of the buildings at the former Wodonga Railway Stationwodonga railways, railway station wodonga, junction place wodonga

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.Panorama of Wodonga Railway Station Far left: Crew's bike shed, then Fitter and Turner's working quarters. Neither building remains. Centre: Building comprised the Office and store. This building was demolished in 1938, so helps to date the photo. Far right: Engine shed with car cleaning on its left. The Albury Express went in on the right and the "Spirit of Progress" entered on the left.railways wodonga, fred rochow, wodonga railway station

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

The Wodonga rail line and railway 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 original Wodonga Station, located in the middle of the city, was closed on 9 November 2008 as part of the Wodonga rail bypass project. The station platform was largely removed and the area has been redeveloped as part of the Junction precinct.This sign has local and state historical significance as the railways played a critical part in opening up the interior of Australia for commerce, transportation and settlement. It enabled Wodonga to develop as an important centre for social and commercial purposes.A metal railway station platform sign, Wodonga is painted in black in the centre circle against an oblong cross piece"WODONGA"railways, wodonga railway station, victoria railways, wodonga

The Wodonga train line opened in November 1873 when the section of the train line from Wangaratta to Wodonga was completed. A goods shed was built at this time in 1873 and a permanent train station was completed in 1874. 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 Tallangatta and Cudgewa train lines from Wodonga were built in stages from the 1880s to the 1920s in what is considered to be some of the most challenging landscape for railways. The Cudgewa line was opened in 1921, so the Wodonga train station sign dates from this period.The Wodonga train station sign has local and state significance due to its use in Wodonga in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, as part of the expansion of the Victorian Railways in the northeast of the state.Old painted wooden sign from the Wodonga train station with the directions for changing to the Tallangatta and Cudgewa train line in light coloured paint on a black painted background."WODONGA / CHANGE FOR / TALLANGATTA & CUDGEWA / LINE" wodonga railway station, wodonga train station, tallangatta train line, cudgewa train line, railway signs, victorian railways signs

The Wodonga rail line and railway 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 original Wodonga Station, located in the middle of the city, was closed on 9 November 2008 as part of the Wodonga rail bypass project. The station platform was largely removed and the area has been redeveloped as part of the Junction precinct.This brick has local and state historical significance as the railways played a critical part in opening up the interior of Australia for commerce, transportation and settlement. It enabled Wodonga to develop as an important centre for social and commercial purposes.An old traditional brick with some joining mortar / concrete still attached. The brick formed part of the platform at the original Wodonga Railway Station prior to its demolition as part of the Wodonga bypass development.wodonga, railways, railway bypass, northeast victoria, vline

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. This photo was taken at Wodonga Railway Station shortly after the introduction of corridor carriages in the early 1900s. Colligan and Donovan were the first two conductors appointed. Back Row, left to right: J. O'Neill (Traffic), W. Benson (Traffic), D. Fraser (Per Way); J. Wilson (Per Way). Second Back row, left to right: ? Prosser, Mat Ryan (Loco), J. Trembath (Loco), E. Fitch (Traffic); J. Colligan (Traffic), ? Hanna (Express Guard); F. Schuman (Loco). W. Coy (Express Guard), W. Wark (Loco), (unknown). Seated left to right: ? McKenna (Driver In Charge), G. Fogarty (Per Way Inspector), J. Broadbent (Station Master), J. Rowe (Assistant Station Master), ? Beaumont (Clerk). Boy behind: Ray Broadbent. Front Left to right: (Unknown); J. Cotter (Traffic), Dinny Donovan (Traffic), (Unknown), R. Prentice (Traffic). Children in front: ? Colligan, ? Colligan, J. Donovan, ? Weiss. Boys in the roof: Eric Broadbent and W. Mahoney. (Per Way is an approved person with responsibility for regular permanent way inspection to ensure the safety of the line)railways wodonga, fred rochow, wodonga railwaymen, wodonga railway staff

The 8th Light Horse was initially raised from companies of the colonial Victorian Mounted Rifles located in North-east Victoria following Federation. In 1912 a major reorganisation of the Australian military forces resulted in the regiment being renumbered 16th Light Horse. The Regiment was disbanded in 1919 but soon after was re-raised as the 8th (Indi) Light Horse in the Citizen Military Forces, with the territorial title Indi Light Horse. The Indi Light Horse consisted of 3 squadrons. A squadron consisted of troops in Corryong, Walwa, Tallangatta, Eskdale and Wodonga. After an extensive recruiting campaign in January 1939 a new troop was raised in Bethanga, Victoria. In December 1941, the regiment converted from horse to mechanised, initially as 8th Reconnaissance Battalion then in July 1942 it became 8th Cavalry Regiment and served in Northern Territory. As Japanese threat to the mainland declined the regiment was disbanded.This article is significant because it depicts horses being loaded at the Wodonga Railway Station to despatch to the training camp at Broadmeadows. Two black and white images from the Border Morning Mail Friday March 10, 1939. One image shows horses being loaded on to trains in Wodonga to be sent to the base at Broadmeadows, Victoria. The second image depicts two leaders of the 8th Light Horse Regiment.Caption with Photo 1 WODONGA AND DISTRICT SOLDIERS OF THE KING Top: Wodonga railway station presented busy scenes on Monday when the lighthorsemen and their mounts took possession of it. Bottom- Although the men were jubilant at boarding the train for Broadmeadows the horses did not like the idea. This horse was no exception. Photo 2 TWO LIGHTHORSE LEADERS Lieutenant L. W. Welesmith, Tallangatta (left), discussing the entraining of horses for Broadmeadows at Wodonga, with Lieutenant J. A. Mc-Geoch (Wodonga), before the departure of the 8th Light Horse troop.australian light horse, peter frawley, light horse wodonga

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.Newspaper Cutting, Undated, Source Unknown- Photo of George Padgett George Padgett was born into a railway family in Numurkah, Victoria on 3 February 1890. He began working for the Victorian Railways as a junior clerk in Maryborough and gained his Driver’s ticket in 1914 at North Melbourne. He was based at Ararat for some time, then transferred to Dimboola in 1926. In November 1937 when the “Spirit of Progress” made its first run from Melbourne to Albury, he was moved to Wodonga. From the train's first return trip he took over the driving. During his career, he made an average of 92 round trips a year. George made his last trip on 4 February 1955 prior to his retirement. George died in Wodonga on 19 February 1967. Below the image "You see them reunited - while Spirit of Progress driver George Padgett looks on happily."railways wodonga, fred rochow, wodonga railwaymen, spirit of progress, george padgett

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.Locomotive 752 Crew at Albury C. 1955 Left to right: Roy Wagner, Fitter Harry Alderson, Driver Bill Odgers, Fireman Lou Merjeric, Fireman H. Aitherson (Train Examiner?) On front of Locomotive "752"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.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 Commissioner Harold Clapp and Mrs. Clapp ready to leave Albury on the "Spirit of Progress" in 1938. The Driver is George Lynch Snr. and the Fireman is E. Finley. Sir Harold Winthrop Clapp (7 May 1875 – 21 October 1952) was a transport administrator with the Victorian Railways who over the course of 30 years revolutionised the railways in Victoria. Clapp introduced faster services and more powerful locomotives, supported the farming sector and presented a report on standardising rail gauges which then led to a uniform rail gauge across capital cities. His most well-known project was the upgrade of the Sydney Limited service into the all-steel, all-air-conditioned, non-stop, high-speed express streamliner, Spirit of Progress which was launched on 17 November 1937. Clapp became Chairman of Commissioners of Victorian Railways in 1920 and remained Chairman until his retirement in 1951. Harold W Clapp was appointed a Knight Commander of the Order of the British Empire (KBE) in 1941 in recognition of his contribution to public service.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.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.Geoff Williams started his railway career as a clerk at Maryborough on 27 August 1947. He became a cleaner in June1952. He passed his Driver qualification in March 1956. Geoff achieved is Fireman's ticket in 1959. He was appointed as Engineman's Instructor in 1972. After a successful career with Victorian Railways, Geoff retired on 1 September 1986.railways wodonga, fred rochow, wodonga railwaymen, geoff williams

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. Ray Murphy- First Driver on the "Spirit of Progress". "Spirit of Progress" Drivers were the only Drivers issued with wings to wear on their caps.railways wodonga, fred rochow, wodonga railwaymen, spirit of progress, ray murphy

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.George Lynch standing alongside a DD Locomotive. This locomotive is fitted with two C-Class compressors used for testing air brakes on the extended length of a train. The DD Class locomotives entered service in 1902 as a new express passenger and mixed traffic steam locomotive class. They were the most numerous locomotive class on the Victorian Railways, with a total of 261 DD locomotives built. Originally introduced on mainline express passenger services, they were quickly superseded by the much larger A class and were relegated to secondary and branch line passenger and goods service, where they gave excellent service for the next 50 years. With some modifications made to the original design, the DD class locomotives ran on railways throughout Victoria until 1974railways wodonga, fred rochow, wodonga railwaymen, george lynch, dd class locomotives

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.Left to right: Eddie Moss, Max Church, Bill Baldock, Claude Clancy, Norm Davey, Alex Reid, Jack O’Donnell, Vin Snow. Claude Clancy was born on 27 March 1895 and started cleaning with Victorian Railways on 16 January 1920. He passed his Driver qualification on 30 December 1936. Alex Reid was born on 4 August 1891. He joined the Victorian Railways at Port Melbourne on 10 December 1907. Alex started cleaning at North Melbourne on 4 October 1910. Alex gained his Driver qualification on 18 December 1919. Jack O’Donnell was born on 3 May 1889 and began working with Victorian Railways on 1 June 1911. He started cleaning on 13 January 1912. He gained his Driver qualification on 19 November 1920. Vin Snow started his Victorian Railways career at Wodonga in September 1939. He passed his Driver qualifications in 1949. Vin retired in 1978.railways wodonga, fred rochow, wodonga railwaymen, claude clancy, alex reid, vin snow, jack o’donnell

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. Express Steam Locomotive passing through railway yards at Wodongarailways wodonga, fred rochow, wodonga railwaymen, steam 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.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.Fireman Jack Dawe and Driver George Lynch on a meal break at Wodonga.railways wodonga, fred rochow, wodonga railwaymen, steam locomotive, jack dawe, george lynch

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.Driver George Judge standing on front of Locomotive X38 special train "Spirit of 96" The X class are a class of mainline diesel locomotives built by Clyde Engineering Victorian Railways between 1966 and 1976. X 38 was part of the second order. It entered service on Friday, 8th May 1970. X 37 and X 38 were built as replacements for the two S Class locomotives lost in the fatal Southern Aurora crash at Violet Town in 1969. It was later sold to Pacific National and rebuilt as XR550. "Spirit of 96" was a passenger train specially designed for cast and crew of the Australian 0-10 Network series “Number 96”. It was used to travel from Sydney to Melbourne for the annual TV Week Logie Awards. It was a silver, multi-carriage train with the Commissioner's carriage hooked up at the rear for VIPs. The 16 and a half-hour overnight journey, left from the centre of Sydney at 4.30 pm with a farewell party, complete with red carpet and jazz band in attendance. It featured whistle stop visits at country sidings and stations. Thousands of people turned out to see their favourite stars, before it arrived at Spencer Street station. The rail service of the time was keen to promote its overnight tourism packages, and for the journey the train was christened as the "Spirit of 96”. On front of locomotive "X38" On red black and white sign attached to the front rail of the locomotive "O/The Spirit of 96/Sydney-Melbourne/1974"railways wodonga, fred rochow, wodonga railwaymen, x class diesel locomotive, george judge, spirit of 96

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.Locomotives at Broadford. Driver Vic Zeinert, Fireman C.Symes The X class were a class of mainline diesel locomotives built by Clyde Engineering for Victorian Railways between 1966 and 1976. X32 entered service on 8 September 1966. The V/Line Freight business was purchased from the Victorian government in 1999. Freight Australia was then sold to Pacific National in August 2004. Locomotive X32 was rebuilt as Locomotive XR555 and resumed service in October 2004 repainted in Pacific National blue and yellow livery. R761 - The R761 arrived in Victoria on the 28th February 1952 upon the ship ‘Helenus’ and entered service on the 9th April 1952. R761 spent long periods in storage and occasionally saw service until it was withdrawn. In 1970 R761 was overhauled and was made available for use on special trains. It became the final R class to run in VR service on the 5th September 1974, ending 120 years of mainline steam operation in Victoria. After years of debate about its future, on the 30th March 1985 the loco was officially returned to service, hauling special trains to celebrate the years of steam locomotives.On front of locomotive on left "R761" On front of locomotive on right "X32"railways wodonga, fred rochow, wodonga railwaymen, x class diesel locomotive, locomotive r761

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.Cliff Thomas started his career with Victorian Railways at Geelong in 1946. He was driving electric locomotives and running the depot in 1952. Cliff moved to Wodonga in 1969 where he retired in 1984.railways wodonga, fred rochow, wodonga railwaymen, cliff thomas

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.George Lynch had a long career with Victorian Railways. The son of a railway man, George grew up in St Arnaud near the railway line. He watched the engines go by and dreamed of being an engine driver. He started working as a cleaner in 1907. Through hard work and further study, George worked his way up to become a locomotive driver. He moved to Wodonga in 1917. At the Victorian Railways Institute examinations, George won four gold medals for Engine Working and Westinghouse Brake In 1925 he was appointed as an Instructor. George was one of four senior drivers who in rotation drove the Sydney Limited. The other drivers were Ray Murphy, F. Hobbs and George Padgett. They all lived with their families in Wodonga. George drove the first Spirit of Progress from Spencer Street to Albury. He made railway history in 1937 when the Sydney Ltd ran non-stop from Albury to Spencer Street in 3 hrs. 25 mins, clipping 25 minutes off the previous record. He retired at the age of 65 in 1953 and died at the age of 74.railways wodonga, fred rochow, wodonga railwaymen, george lynch snr

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.Colleagues at the retirement function for Locomotive Driver Jack Schmidt who was one of the Drivers of the "Spirit of Progress" Standing left to right: Alex Reid, Eric Molloy, Cyril Tannock, Ray Murphy Seated: Jack Schmidt railways wodonga, fred rochow, wodonga railwaymen, jack schmidt, spirit of progress

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.Group photo at gathering for the retirement of Claude Clancy and Jack O'Donnell in Wodonga, 1955. Back row left to right: Bill Baldock, Norm Davey, Tom (Milky) Cosgrove, Lionel McCormick, Bill Welch, Jimmy Lawler, Pat Murphy. 2nd row: Don Shepherd, Brian Putt, Norm O’Neill, Tom Guinane, Allan Smythe, Fred Leitch, Les Cross, Hugh Fraser, Eddy Moss, Colin Whitehand, Max Church, Eric Molloy, Frank Conway, Vin Snow, Stan Warnock, Dave Sutton 3rd row: Tommy Fitzgerald, Claude Clancy, Alex Reid, Jack, O’Donnell 4th row: Frank Rand, Kevin Goocher, Buddy Strachan, Cyril Tannick, Allan Elvish, Wally Rileyrailways wodonga, fred rochow, wodonga railwaymen, claude clancy, jack o'donnell

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.Guard Hugh Fraser about to take his last ride on 10 May 1971. He started his career with Victorian Railways as a Lad Porter on 1 July 1924 at Oakleigh Station. He worked as a Shunter at Korumburra, Williamstown Pier, Woodend and Ballarat. Hugh was Leading Shunter at Wodonga from 1935 until 1941. His final position was as Guard at Wodonga from 1941 until May 1971.railways wodonga, fred rochow, wodonga railwaymen, hugh fraser

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 up Sydney Express departing Wodonga on its journey to Melbourne. This photo was taken by famous Wodonga driver George Lynch. The elliptical roof CE van helps date this photo as the first one didn't appear until 1924. Electric headlights started appearing in 1926 and were first utilised on the Sydney and Adelaide expresses which means the photo was taken sometime between 1924 and 1926.railways wodonga, fred rochow, wodonga railwaymen, steam locomotives

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 "Spirit of Progress" on a test run prior to its official launch being hauled by Locomotive S303. It was named the C.J. LaTrobe after the1st Lieutenant-Governor of Victoria, Charles Joseph Latrobe. Considered by many to be Victorian Railways' greatest passenger locomotives, the 4 S class steam locomotives were the first 3 cylinder steam locomotives. This small class was built to run the Melbourne to Albury passenger trains and spent their entire careers on the North East line. They were built unstreamlined and ran in this condition until 1937. The streamlining modifications complimented the all new "Spirit Of Progress" carriages. The S class ran the "Spirit" until 1952 at which time the newly delivered B class diesels took over. The 4 S class locomotive which were allocated to the "Spirit of Progress" were S300 - the "Mathew Flinders", withdrawn in September 1954, having covered 1,379,791 miles. S301 - the "Sir Thomas Mitchell", withdrawn in October 1953, having covered 1,414,367 miles. S302 - the "Edward Henty", withdrawn in July 1954, having covered 1,446,468 miles and S303 - the "C.J. Latrobe", withdrawn in May 1954, having covered 1,434,664 miles.On the lower front of the Locomotive "S303"railways wodonga, fred rochow, wodonga railwaymen, spirit of progress, s class steam locomotives

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 "Flying Scotsman's" first run in Victoria. This photo was taken at the crew changeover in Longwood after the run from Albury. The Flying Scotsman Pacific 4-6-2, perhaps one of the most iconic steam locomotives in the world, visited Australia in 1988-89 for a series of events associated with the country’s Bicentennial Celebrations. This included the AusSteam 88 Steam Locomotive exhibition in Melbourne. At the top edge of the locomotive "SCOTSMAN" and on the lower edge of the locomotive "4472"railways wodonga, fred rochow, wodonga railwaymen, fireman noel strauss, driver len gregson, the flying scosman

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.Ray Murphy was born on 4 December 1889. He started his railway career a t North Melbourne on 23 February 1910. Ray transferred to Wodonga in 1918 and passed his Driver qualification on 27 JUNE 1919. He was appointed as Special Class Driver at Wodonga on 13 January 1935. Ray was a Past Chairman of the Wodonga Branch of the Australian Federated Union of Locomotive Employees (AFULE). He retired at Wodonga in 1952.railways wodonga, fred rochow, wodonga railwaymen, driver len gregson, ray murphy

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.Left to right: Jack Hinchcliffe, George Lynch, Bill Orchard, Hec Lloyd, ; BILL ROWE; Bill Rowe, Bill McLaren, Jack Dore, Jack Bowden, George Judge, Harry Alderson, Charlie Edmondson, Fireman Cyril Hughes. Cyril Hughes was born on 30 January 1903, started cleaning on 17 December 1924 and passed his Driving Qualifications on 27 June1941. "Sir Thomas Mitchell" Considered by many to be Victorian Railways' greatest passenger locomotives, the 4 S class steam locomotives were the first 3 cylinder steam locomotives. This small class was built to run the Melbourne to Albury passenger trains and spent their entire careers on the North East line. They were built unstreamlined and ran in this condition until 1937. The streamlining modifications complimented the all new "Spirit Of Progress" carriages. The S class ran the "Spirit" until 1952 at which time the newly delivered B class diesels took over. Locomotive S301 - the "Sir Thomas Mitchell" was withdrawn in October 1953, having covered 1,414,367 miles. On the locomotive in the background "SIR THOMAS MITCHELL"railways wodonga, fred rochow, wodonga railwaymen, steam locomotive s301, locomotive "sir thomas mitchell"