Historical information

The construction of the Bairnsdale to Orbost railway line 1912-1916 was a major event for East Gippsland and the Orbost district in particular. Hundreds of men worked on the project and at least 7 deaths are recorded. Men lived in railway camps along the construction route. The caption on this photo indicates that these men were part of the workforce for the large timber railway bridges at Newmerella, adjacent to Orbost.

Significance

This photo is significant because it records 6 workers involved in a major project for the Orbost district in the early 20th century. It records the way of life of these men.

Physical description

A b/w photograph of a group of 6 men in outdoor working clothes in front of tents. Behind the tents are trees and a bushland setting. Two men are wearing hats. This is a printed copy and is not an original photo.

Inscriptions & markings

On the back of the photo: Workers on railway bridge at Newmerella, Victoria.