Historical information

Wodonga Water Tower was officially opened on 4th December 1924 to store water for the town of Wodonga. Due to increased consumption demands and the construction of a large reservoir, the Water Tower was decommissioned in 1959. It stood unused until the lower section was modified and put to use as “The Cobbler’s Inn” in 1962.

Albert (Bert) Green and his wife Gwen opened a shoe repair business at the base of the Wodonga water tower in 1961. Gwen added a florist shop which operated for some years
In 1979 Ron Turton took over the Cobbler’s Inn in partnership with his brother-in-law Len Freyer. Len entered the trade as an apprentice with Quinn's Bootmakers of Wodonga at the age of 14 and later worked with Mr. Green. Ron’s son, Justin also joined the business and took over from his father in 2018.
The Cobbler’s Inn was closed in 2024.

Significance

This item is significant because it was displayed outside a well-known and unique Wodonga Business for approximately 60 years.

Physical description

A collection of images which tell some of the story of the Cobbler's Inn in Wodonga.
1. Cobbler's Inn Sign
2. Albert Green, the first Cobbler's Inn Cobbler
3. Cobbler's Inn at base of Wodonga Water Tower
4. Cobbler's Inn sign & doorway Wodonga
5. Justin and Ron Turton. Ron and his partner Len Freyer, took over from Albert Green. Justin worked with him and later took over the business.
6. Justin & Ron Turton with original sewing machine
7. Inside the Cobbler's Inn
8. Empty shop space inside Wodonga Water Tower March 2025

Inscriptions & markings

Cobbler's Inn