Historical information

The Water Tower is a major landmark of High Street, Wodonga. Construction of the Water Tower was completed in early 1924 and after thorough testing throughout that year, the completed new water system for Wodonga was officially opened on 4th December 1924. It was decommissioned in 1959. It stood unused until the lower section was modified and put to use as “ The Tower’s Cobbler’s Inn” in 1962. In 1972 Wodonga City Council proposed to demolish the Tower. Their suggestion received an unfavorable response from the city’s citizens, so the Tower still stands today. The community celebrated its centenary on 4th December 2024.
This picture frame was created from timber taken from the ladders that were inside the Tower, allowing access to the water tank itself and the external balconies. It was donated to the Wodonga & District Historical Society at the Centenary Celebration.

Significance

This item is significant because it is made from timber from the original ladders inside the Wodonga Water Tower.

Physical description

A timber frame made from sections of timber from the ladders once part of the Wodonga Water Tower.

Inscriptions & markings

On sign at base on frame:
In 2012, the company I worked for won the contract to replace the wooden internal ladders in the Wodonga Water Tower. The disposal of the ladders was included in the contract. Realising the significance (and age) of the wood, I decided to keep most of it. In 2018, I had Trent Keller of TKEL Furniture in Wodonga design and make a Wine Rack from the ladders. Trent's amazing design kept the "ladder-style" look and produced a beautiful Wine Rack. This Photo Frame has been made from the last remaining rungs.

it is both mine and Trent's pleasure to donate this amazing piece of our town's history.
Scott Fraser and TKEL Furniture