Historical information

This utility truck was one of two used by the Albury Gas Co, from the Gas Works in Kiewa Street, Albury to service the coal gas supply system in Albury during the war years from 1939-1945. The gas bags were installed as petrol was in short supply. One of the trucks was driven by John (Jack) Stanley Cruickshank, also known as Wodonga's Gas Man. Jack became foreman for the Wodonga Branch of the Albury Gas Co.

An 80 millimetre galvanised steel pipeline was installed from the Albury Gas Co. in Kiewa Street, Albury, to 26 Church Street, Wodonga. A 40 horsepower pump pushed the gas to holding tanks. Sections of the gas pipeline to Wodonga can still be observed under some of the bridges from Albury to Wodonga.

Jack also supervised the laying of the gas pipes in the streets of Wodonga, being hand dug by a gang of 15- 20 men. He was Wodonga's first Gas Fitter, both fitting gas appliances and overseeing their maintenance.

Jack Cruickshank passed away in 1979 and is buried at the Wodonga Cemetery.

Significance

This image is significant because it represents the installation of gas supply to Wodonga, Victoria.

Physical description

A black and white photo of a large van with a gas-filled bag on top of it and also a portrait of Jack Cruickshank. Photos are mounted together with text in a wooden frame.