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 Victorian Railways scales were donated by a resident of Wodonga, Victoria, and may have been used in the Wodonga train station. The Wodonga train line and train station opened in November 1873 when the section of the line from Wangaratta to Wodonga was completed. The expansion of Victorian 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 Victorian Railways weighing scales has local significance as it was donated by a resident of Wodonga, as well as state significance as an example of the equipment used by the Victorian Railways. Green painted cast iron Victorian Railways scales for weighing up to 25 kg. Rectangular weighing plate above a circular aluminium dial with the weights and 'V.R.' is engraved in black on the front of the scales."V.R." in black on the front of the scales "TO WEIGH / 25 kg. X 250 g." in black on the front of the scales "1714" engraved on a small iron plate screwed onto the front of the base of the scales.victorian railways weighing scales, v.r. weighing scales, railways scales, weighing scales, victorian railways, v.r., vr

The hand forged iron alloy wedge belonged to the railways carpenter, Lachlan McEachern, who became the President of the Wodonga Sub-Branch of the Victorian branch of the Australian Railways Union. He was presented with a framed Past Officers Certificate by the Australian Railways Union in recognition of services rendered in 1926. The certificate is also in the collection of the Wodonga Historical Society. The Wodonga train station opened in November 1873 when the section of the train line from Wangaratta to Wodonga 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 hand forged iron alloy wedge has local and state significance due to its use by a Victorian Railways carpenter, Lachlan McEachern, in Wodonga. The local significance is also strong due to the prominence of the McEachern family in the Albury-Wodonga area.Hand forged iron wedge with a cracked flange/rim at the top, red-brown rust and some dirt on the surface.hand forged wedge, hand made tools, victorian railways, v.r., railways carpenter, wodonga, lachlan mceachern, iron alloy tools, mceachern family

The two glass water containers/bottles are thought to have been used in railway passenger trains in the c. 1900s. The Wodonga train line and train station opened in November 1873 when the section of the line from Wangaratta to Wodonga was completed. The expansion of Victorian 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 two glass water containers/bottles have historic significance as examples of the equipment used in passenger trains in Australia in the c. 1900s.Two clear glass water containers/bottles with a narrow neck and flaring body, which were used in railway passenger trains c. 1900s. The slightly taller water container/bottle has a metal chain around the neck." c / NSW / TD" on the base of the taller water container.railways water containers, passenger train water containers, passenger trains water bottles, glass water bottles, railway equipment

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

The Wodonga line and train station opened in November 1873 when the section of the line from Wangaratta was completed. The expansion of the railways to the northeast of Victoria occurred after the Victorian Government took over the railways in 1867 and the trains serviced large towns such as Seymour, Wangaratta and Wodonga, as well as smaller towns along the way. The first section of the Wodonga to Tallangatta line opened in 1889 and was further extended in 1891. It was a vital community link until the passenger service closed in September 1961 The last regular goods train on the line ran on 21st April 1978. The north- east train line to Wodonga remained a significant factor in the development of Wodonga as a rural city in the 20th century. Local significance due to the importance of the railways to Wodonga as a means of transport, communication and impact on business and commerce. State and national significance due to the role played by the railways in opening up the country for development.A bound volume of the Victorian Railways Time Table for 2nd May 1910 to 30th November 1910. Black with gold inscription. The binding is not original but was carried out to preserve the contents"Victorian Railways/Time Table/ 2nd May 1910/ 30th November 1910"victorian railways, wodonga, timetable, transport

The Victorian Railways oil can/feeder was used to oil various parts of engines of trains as part of the maintenance of trains. This would have been carried out by employees in the 'Rolling Stock Branch' of Victorian Railways, which included the maintenance and operation of locomotives and rolling stock. It was donated by a resident of Wodonga, and the Wodonga train line and train station opened in November 1873 when the section of the line from Wangaratta to Wodonga was completed. The expansion of Victorian 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 oil can/feeder has local significance as it was donated by a resident of Wodonga, as well as state significance as an example of the equipment used by the Victorain Railways.Grey metal Victorian Railways oil can/feeder used to oil various parts of train engines, with a long spout, handle and a chain attached to the lid."V↑R" on the proper left side.oil can, oil feeder, vintage oil cans, vintage oil feeders, victorian

The office of The Sentinel or Wodonga and Towong Sentinel newspaper was in High Street, Wodonga. The Sentinel began operation in 1885 and was owned, managed and edited by James Ryan. It was published weekly until he was killed by a train at Wodonga station on 27 July 1912. James Ryan was born in Beechworth in 1861 and served his apprenticeship with the printing business of the "Ovens and Murray Advertiser”. For a time, he worked on the Melbourne "Herald”, followed by the Ballarat “Courier”. With a fellow printer, William Oldfield Taylor, he moved to Wodonga and they began the "Wodonga and Towong Sentinel" with the first issue on 29th August 1885. Mr Taylor died in June 1894. After James Ryan’s death the “Sentinel” was continued by his son Charlie until his death 26 February 1965. It was sold to the Border Morning Mail in 1965. The last issue was published on 22 March 1968.This image captures th80e premises of an important newspaper published in Wodonga for 80 years.A black and white image of the Sentinel newspaper office in Wodonga.At the top of the building "The SENTINEL"wodonga businesses, wodonga & towong sentinel, wodonga buildings

Railways began in the 1850s and were privately owned and operated. Later they were taken over by the Victorian Government reaching a peak in the early 1940s.Steam trains were followed by electric trains with both running after the war in 1945.Bright was the closest station to the Kiewa Valley but road transport was used more often as the Kiewa Valley Highway was improved with the construction of the Kiewa Hydro Electric Scheme. To travel to Melbourne or Sydney by train residents went via Wodonga/Albury where they also did their shopping.Plastic on parchment with detailed railway routes (in green) across Victoria including each district's 'Road Foremen' and 'Depots'. There is a length of flat wood attached by 10 tacks across the top of the mapvictorian railways 1945, trains, transport

These types of metal and glass railway signalling lamps were used for communication, safety and lighting by train guards, shunters and signalmen, as well as station staff in the late 1880s to the early 1900s. They were hand operated and used fuel such as kerosene.The three railway signalling lamps have local significance as a set donated by a resident of Wodonga who worked for the Victorian Railways, as well as national significance as examples of the communication and safety equipment used by the railways in Australia in the late 19th century and early 20th century.Set of three painted black metal and glass railway signal lamps used for various purposes during train journeys. The largest signal lamp has circular blue and red glass filters and a turning mechanism on the top under the handle. "A y" on a small copper plate on one side of the largest signal lamp - Lamp 1.railway lamps, signalling lamp, train signal lamps

Metal and glass railway signalling lamps were used for communication, safety and lighting by train guards, shunters and signalmen, as well as station staff in the late 1880s to the early 1900s. They were hand operated and used fuel such as kerosene.The railway signal lamp has local significance as part of a set of three lamps donated by a resident of Wodonga who worked for the Victorian Railways. It also has national significance as an example of communication and safety equipment used by the railways in Australia in the late 19th century and early 20th century.Exterior casing of a black painted metal railway signal lamp with circular blue and red glass filters and a turning mechanism on the top under a circular handle. Small copper plate with the letters "A y" stamped on it, on one side of the lamp. "A y"railway lamps, signalling lamp, train signal lamps

Metal and glass railway signalling lamps were used for communication, safety and lighting by train guards, shunters and signalmen, as well as station staff in the late 1880s to the early 1900s. They were hand operated and used fuel such as kerosene.The railway signal lamp has local significance as part of a set of three lamps donated by a resident of Wodonga who worked for the Victorian Railways. It also has national significance as an example of communication and safety equipment used by the railways in Australia in the late 19th century and early 20th century.Black painted metal signal lamp with a circular metal cover over a clear glass disk at the front and an elongated oval shaped handle at the back. The circular metal cover has a vertical slit in it. There is an inscription on the top of the lamp with the date 1917 and the company name "Eli Griffiths & Sons, Birmingham"."ELI GRIFFITHS & SONS / 1917 / BIRMINGHAM"railway lamps, signalling lamp, train signal lamps, railway equipment

These types of metal and glass railway signal lamps were used for communication, safety and lighting by train guards, shunters and signalmen, as well as station staff in the late 1880s to the early 1900s. They were hand operated and used fuel such as kerosene.The railway signal lamp has local significance as part of a set of three lamps donated by a resident of Wodonga who worked for the Victorian Railways. It also has national significance as an example of communication and safety equipment used by the railways in Australia in the late 19th century and early 20th century.Black painted metal signal lamp with a clear glass lens secured at the front and one thin elongated oval shaped handle showing at the back. The metal appears to be tin plated iron under the black paint layer. There is an oval plate with an embossed inscription on the proper left side of the lamp that is partly covered by the door at the front which holds the clear glass lens. The inscription includes the date 1901."...NARIPPINGILLE STOVE / CO LTD 1901 / PATENT...S & / ...NUFACTURERS / RMINGHAM" on an oval shaped plate on the proper left side, which is partly covered by the door with the clear glass lens.railways wodonga, victorian railways

On December 1, 2000 it was finally announced that the railway line would be moved away from the centre of the Wodonga CBD after many years of lobbying. Since its opening in 1873 the railway line had crossed High Street, originally called Sydney Road. The railway had bisected the city with level crossing gates frequently stopping the flow of traffic as trains passed through. 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, and the original line through Wodonga closed. In this image the decision is celebrated by the Member for Indi, the Honourable Lou Lieberman, Deputy Prime Minister and Transport Minister John Anderson, Wodonga Mayor Cr. Graham Crapp and General Manager of Uncle Ben's Australia, Mr Bob Kennedy.This image commemorates a significant occasion in the development of the Central Business District of Wodonga, Victoria.A framed photo of four men celebrating the decision to move the railway out of the centre of Wodonga as well as an image of the from page of the Border Mail newspaper.wodonga railway, wodonga rail bypass, city of 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. Shelley Railway Station - Shelley was once Victoria's highest railway station, located 781 metres above sea level. The Shelley Railway Station was opened in 1916 and closed in 1979. The railway was used early in its life to transport farmer’s livestock from the Upper Murray to Wodonga. From the 1950s the railway was used heavily to transport equipment and machinery from Wodonga to the Upper Murray to help build the Snowy Mountains Hydro Electric Scheme. The Snowy Hydro Scheme was completed in 1974 and after several years of low level use, the railway was closed. Some remnants of the Shelley Station passenger platform can still be seen today, along with some information boards. The Shelley Railway Station now forms part of the High Country Rail Trail.This collection has local and statewide significance as it captures images of trains, locomotives and personnel who operated the railway services in Wodonga and throughout Northeast Victoria. The railways played a critical role in opening up Victoria and connecting Australia for trade, business, social communication and transport.Left to Right: Fireman Bert Cadman, Driver Wally Riley, Guard Hugh Fraser. Locomotive S300 - the ‘Matthew Flinders’ The S class diesel locomotives were built by Clyde Engineering in 1957 for the Victorian Railways. Designed as premier express passenger diesels, they assumed the ‘S class’ title from a fleet of steam locomotives. They were also given names of famous Australians. The S300 took the name ‘Matthew Flinders’. In 1962, S300 was converted from the Victorian broad gauge of 5’3” to the New South Wales gauge of 4’8.5”, in order to operate the new Southern Aurora between Sydney & Melbourne. As the locomotive grew older it was removed from these duties and was sold to Chicago Freight Car Leasing Australia (CFCLA) in 2004. It is now owned by a private owner and is on loan to the Canberra Railway Museum.railways wodonga, fred rochow, wodonga railwaymen, s class locomotive

The Fred Rochow Railways Collection incorporates photos related to the operation of the Wodonga Railway Station including different types of trains and railways staff C. 1930 – 1990. It was donated to the Wodonga Historical Society by Fred Rochow, a railwayman who spent many years based in Wodonga. He joined the Victorian Railways on 17th June l947 and retired in 1988. For some time, he was a member of the Australian Federated Union of Locomotive Enginemen and served a term as a member of the Trades Hall Council. He had an extensive knowledge of the struggles that took place to achieve better conditions for railway workers. Fred worked for many years as a fireman and then worked his way up the ranks to driver, experiencing many changes from the days of steam locomotives through to diesel trains, locomotives and even the modern XPT train. He worked throughout Victoria at different stages of his career, with his final working years focused on the northeast of Victoria and the Albury to Melbourne line. After his retirement, Fred continued to share his love of steam miniature trains with the community.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. 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