Historical information

This image is representative of many photographs illustrating the level crossing in the centre of Wodonga. Since its opening in 1873 the railway line had crossed High Street, originally called Sydney Road. It bisected the city with level crossing gates frequently stopping the flow of traffic and pedestrians as trains passed through.

Signal Box B stood on the eastern side of the High Street level crossing and a big wheel closed and opened the gates. On 17th September, 1961, it was replaced by boom gates and flashing lights.

The railway crossing was removed from High Street as part of the Wodonga Rail Bypass project. This involved a 5.5 kilometres bypass, the elimination of 11 level crossings and the relocation of the Wodonga station. It was moved from its original central location to a position on a new line on the northern edge of the town. The old station closed on 8 November 2008 and the new station opened on 25 June 2011.

Significance

This image has local and statewide significance as it captures the former crossing in a major railway system. The railways played a critical role in opening up Victoria and connecting Australia for trade, business, social communication and transport.

Physical description

A black and white photo of the railway level crossing in High Street, Wodonga with gates closed. The Melbourne to Sydney railway line went through the centre of Wodonga and trains frequently held up internal vehicular and pedestrian traffic in the main street.