Car Museums & places to visit in New South Wales
1. Mildura Holden Motor Museum
Holden legacy - A great attraction in Buronga, NSW.
The entire collaboration of the Mildura Holden Motor Museum is the result of one man’s passion and love for Holden cars. What was once an un-realistic aspiration has now become the legacy of Mr Ron Morello that many others can view and appreciate.
Ron's obsession started over thirty five years ago when the successful earthmoving contractor was called out to quote a job for his neighbour to clear the land and prepare for construction. He was given strict instructions that “everything must go” including a 48-215 (better known as the FX) in pristine condition tucked away in a storage shelter with the keys still in the ignition. As soon as Ron crushed the shelter, including the car - he realised what he’d done. “I’m still wondering to this day what possessed me to crush such a beautiful car.”
In 1975, still suffering the guilt from crushing the FX a few years earlier, Ron started to look for the same model Holden to buy. He kept his eye on the papers and in January 1981, as luck would have it, he brought an original local FX Holden sedan, blue in colour with only 42,000 miles on the clock and in excellent condition.
Ron was extremely fortunate to have been able to enjoy the Museum for nine months. Sadly on the 24th June 2017, Ron succumb to a lengthy battle of aggressive cancer and passed away peacefully knowing his life long dream had materialised.
There are approximately thirty vehicles on display to see and is a great place to bring the family and have a coffee in the cafe. Choose from a range of hot pastries, sandwiches, toasted focaccia’s, cakes, slices, cookies, cold drinks and ice creams.
www.milduraholdenmuseum.com.au
Holden announces October deadline for end of Australian car production
Address: 58 West Road, Buronga, NSW, near the Mildura border. Phone: 0408 830 989
Contact the Manager Kayleen for more information or email milduraholdenmuseum@gmail.com
Opening hours are Tuesday to Sunday, 9:30 - 4:00 each day. Public holidays are subject to change.
The entire collaboration of the Mildura Holden Motor Museum is the result of one man’s passion and love for Holden cars. What was once an un-realistic aspiration has now become the legacy of Mr Ron Morello that many others can view and appreciate.
Ron's obsession started over thirty five years ago when the successful earthmoving contractor was called out to quote a job for his neighbour to clear the land and prepare for construction. He was given strict instructions that “everything must go” including a 48-215 (better known as the FX) in pristine condition tucked away in a storage shelter with the keys still in the ignition. As soon as Ron crushed the shelter, including the car - he realised what he’d done. “I’m still wondering to this day what possessed me to crush such a beautiful car.”
In 1975, still suffering the guilt from crushing the FX a few years earlier, Ron started to look for the same model Holden to buy. He kept his eye on the papers and in January 1981, as luck would have it, he brought an original local FX Holden sedan, blue in colour with only 42,000 miles on the clock and in excellent condition.
Ron was extremely fortunate to have been able to enjoy the Museum for nine months. Sadly on the 24th June 2017, Ron succumb to a lengthy battle of aggressive cancer and passed away peacefully knowing his life long dream had materialised.
There are approximately thirty vehicles on display to see and is a great place to bring the family and have a coffee in the cafe. Choose from a range of hot pastries, sandwiches, toasted focaccia’s, cakes, slices, cookies, cold drinks and ice creams.
www.milduraholdenmuseum.com.au
Holden announces October deadline for end of Australian car production
Address: 58 West Road, Buronga, NSW, near the Mildura border. Phone: 0408 830 989
Contact the Manager Kayleen for more information or email milduraholdenmuseum@gmail.com
Opening hours are Tuesday to Sunday, 9:30 - 4:00 each day. Public holidays are subject to change.
2. McFeeters Motor Museum
Vintage, classic and rare, the McFeeters Motor Museum has it all.
Located on the Newell Hwy in Forbes, New South Wales, the museum was purpose built to house a stunning collection of meticulously restored motor vehicles.
Owners Jan and Bill McFeeters decided to build a good home for their cars after coming back from a veteran car rally in Bundaberg, Queensland in 2006. They saw a shed in Cowra that they liked and knocked on the door. The owner was a developer from Sydney and he too liked their idea and assisted them throughout the build. Jan McFeeters took on site management, and 15 months later in December 2008, the Museum opened to the public.
Bill bought his first Model A in 1961 from a local fence contractor. He had purchased it from a local minister of the church who had to sell only after a few months after purchasing it new, due to the fact his wife thought all cars were the 'work of the devil'. Their cars have since been acquired gradually over the 70s, 80s, 90s, and early 2000.
These vehicles range from 1902 veterans, vintage, classic, and modern custom cars, some rare, some common, and some just down right bizarre.
The complex also includes the following for visitors:
Free Honey Tasting and sales of locally produced honey.
A café with seating up to 70 people offering lunch, morning and afternoon teas, and takeouts.
Souvenir gift shop selling locally produced goods, Aboriginal art works, toys, and other gift wear.
The facility has ample off street parking for at least 50 cars and 4 buses. There is also a drop off zone closer to the building for buses only. They offer a clean and comfortable environment, accessible toilets, and baby facilities.
Group packages for both the museum and café are available on request, both offering very reasonable deals.
Summary
Café is open from 10am to 4pm, and closed on public holidays.
Phone: (02) 6852 3001 Email: mcfeeters@motormuseum.net.au
Museum is open every day from 9am to 5pm. Closed Christmas day.
McFeeters Motor Museum is located at Newell Hwy Forbes NSW 2871.
Note: Museum includes a rare 1953 Velorex (Czech Republic, 1950s-1970s), developed by the Stransky Bros.
Located on the Newell Hwy in Forbes, New South Wales, the museum was purpose built to house a stunning collection of meticulously restored motor vehicles.
Owners Jan and Bill McFeeters decided to build a good home for their cars after coming back from a veteran car rally in Bundaberg, Queensland in 2006. They saw a shed in Cowra that they liked and knocked on the door. The owner was a developer from Sydney and he too liked their idea and assisted them throughout the build. Jan McFeeters took on site management, and 15 months later in December 2008, the Museum opened to the public.
Bill bought his first Model A in 1961 from a local fence contractor. He had purchased it from a local minister of the church who had to sell only after a few months after purchasing it new, due to the fact his wife thought all cars were the 'work of the devil'. Their cars have since been acquired gradually over the 70s, 80s, 90s, and early 2000.
These vehicles range from 1902 veterans, vintage, classic, and modern custom cars, some rare, some common, and some just down right bizarre.
The complex also includes the following for visitors:
Free Honey Tasting and sales of locally produced honey.
A café with seating up to 70 people offering lunch, morning and afternoon teas, and takeouts.
Souvenir gift shop selling locally produced goods, Aboriginal art works, toys, and other gift wear.
The facility has ample off street parking for at least 50 cars and 4 buses. There is also a drop off zone closer to the building for buses only. They offer a clean and comfortable environment, accessible toilets, and baby facilities.
Group packages for both the museum and café are available on request, both offering very reasonable deals.
Summary
Café is open from 10am to 4pm, and closed on public holidays.
Phone: (02) 6852 3001 Email: mcfeeters@motormuseum.net.au
Museum is open every day from 9am to 5pm. Closed Christmas day.
McFeeters Motor Museum is located at Newell Hwy Forbes NSW 2871.
Note: Museum includes a rare 1953 Velorex (Czech Republic, 1950s-1970s), developed by the Stransky Bros.
3. Australian Motorlife Museum
Driving the past into the future
Tucked away in a rural setting near Wollongong, less than 2kms from the freeway north to Sydney is a neat grey buidling, home to one of the best car and automobillia collections in Australia.
The Australian Motorlife Museum came about because of the efforts of a dedicated few volunteers, who had managed to erect a smaller brick building to house what was then a collection of signs, petrol pumps, tools and other artefacts, later augmented by a dozen or so cars and motorcycles. Named the Illawarra Motoring Museum, it pretty soon outgrew these premises.
Meanwhile, Paul Butler a keen collector from Sydney was planning to open a museum, when he passed away suddenly, leaving his premises in some disarray. The named beneficiary, albeit with some heavyweight conditions, was a national heritage organisation. The Executors of the Butler estate, in early 1993, encouraged IMM to apply to become a beneficiary.
Coincidentally there were plans to erect a larger building at Wollongong, which would provide a home for the existing exhibits, plus the Paul Butler collection. A process began to secure a site and Wollongong City Council purchased a 50 acre site to serve as a community recreation park, and several community based clubs have now established headquarters there, including Motorlife.
To cut a long and rocky story short, the now renamed Australian Motorlife Museum opened to the public on this site in August 2008. The Butler matter was dragging through the Supreme Court, but was finally resolved in Motorlife’s favour in March 2009.
The Museum now has a 3200 sq.m space which includes a storage and conservation area, and the Brabham function room. In June 2010, Sir Jack along with Lady Brabham and Ron Tauranac, attended the opening of the function room named in his honour.
The Australian Motorlife Museum came about because of the efforts of a dedicated few volunteers, who had managed to erect a smaller brick building to house what was then a collection of signs, petrol pumps, tools and other artefacts, later augmented by a dozen or so cars and motorcycles. Named the Illawarra Motoring Museum, it pretty soon outgrew these premises.
Meanwhile, Paul Butler a keen collector from Sydney was planning to open a museum, when he passed away suddenly, leaving his premises in some disarray. The named beneficiary, albeit with some heavyweight conditions, was a national heritage organisation. The Executors of the Butler estate, in early 1993, encouraged IMM to apply to become a beneficiary.
Coincidentally there were plans to erect a larger building at Wollongong, which would provide a home for the existing exhibits, plus the Paul Butler collection. A process began to secure a site and Wollongong City Council purchased a 50 acre site to serve as a community recreation park, and several community based clubs have now established headquarters there, including Motorlife.
To cut a long and rocky story short, the now renamed Australian Motorlife Museum opened to the public on this site in August 2008. The Butler matter was dragging through the Supreme Court, but was finally resolved in Motorlife’s favour in March 2009.
The Museum now has a 3200 sq.m space which includes a storage and conservation area, and the Brabham function room. In June 2010, Sir Jack along with Lady Brabham and Ron Tauranac, attended the opening of the function room named in his honour.
Links, fees and facilities
Phone: 02 42 614 100 admin@motorlifemuseum.com
www.australianmotorlifemuseum.com www.facebook.com/TheAustralianMotorMuseum
Address: Motorlife Museum, Integral Energy Recreation Park, 94 Darkes Road, Kembla Grange 2526 N.S.W
Other facilities include: The Members Room can be hired for functions with a fully equipped industrial kitchen and bar area. There are also seating nooks in our café area for morning tea, lunch or afternoon tea (bookings required) other facilities include seating on the veranda to enjoy your packed lunch. They are easy walking distance from a BBQ picnic area with full playground all set in a beautiful parkland.
The Motorlife Museum members (currently over 100) are a group of people interested in heritage motoring and also parallel advancements in technology during the same period that saw the evolution of the motor vehicle.
The Museum offers several different types of membership. Membership with full voting rights, Membership plus Partner with full voting rights for both. Applicants who are not known by Members will be offered membership as Friends of AMM (without voting rights) for 12 months when upon agreement of both parties membership can be transferred to Full Membership. There are also approximately 60 volunteers that support the museum.
The Museum is managed by an annually elected committee and our membership takes a keen interest in the life of the Museum by attending meetings, events and by volunteering their time to assist in the running of the Museum in some way and aim to use their skills and some time to help the Museum achieve its goals.
Note: Photos and content provided by the Australian Motorlife Museum in May 2020.
Phone: 02 42 614 100 admin@motorlifemuseum.com
www.australianmotorlifemuseum.com www.facebook.com/TheAustralianMotorMuseum
Address: Motorlife Museum, Integral Energy Recreation Park, 94 Darkes Road, Kembla Grange 2526 N.S.W
Other facilities include: The Members Room can be hired for functions with a fully equipped industrial kitchen and bar area. There are also seating nooks in our café area for morning tea, lunch or afternoon tea (bookings required) other facilities include seating on the veranda to enjoy your packed lunch. They are easy walking distance from a BBQ picnic area with full playground all set in a beautiful parkland.
The Motorlife Museum members (currently over 100) are a group of people interested in heritage motoring and also parallel advancements in technology during the same period that saw the evolution of the motor vehicle.
The Museum offers several different types of membership. Membership with full voting rights, Membership plus Partner with full voting rights for both. Applicants who are not known by Members will be offered membership as Friends of AMM (without voting rights) for 12 months when upon agreement of both parties membership can be transferred to Full Membership. There are also approximately 60 volunteers that support the museum.
The Museum is managed by an annually elected committee and our membership takes a keen interest in the life of the Museum by attending meetings, events and by volunteering their time to assist in the running of the Museum in some way and aim to use their skills and some time to help the Museum achieve its goals.
Note: Photos and content provided by the Australian Motorlife Museum in May 2020.
4. Trentham Estate - Trentham Cliffsfs, NSW
Family owned Boutique Winery - 13km from Mildura
Trentham Estate is a family-owned boutique winery set right on the banks of the Murray River in Trentham Cliffs, New South Wales, just 15 minutes from Mildura, Victoria. The Estate consists of the winery itself, which produces over twenty varieties from a 5,000 tonne annual crush, and the picturesque grounds where you can experience Trentham’s own Cellar Door and Restaurant.
The Cellar Door offers tastings and sales of the vast range of wines with something to please all tastes. There are classic, rounded styles such as Chardonnay, Sauvignon Blanc, Merlot and Shiraz, right through to award-winning alternative varieties including Vermentino, Taminga, Prosecco and Nero d’Avola. The knowledgeable team are happy to walk you through a tasting.
Dine alfresco or inside the Restaurant, where the focus is on the use of local produce to create contemporary Australian cuisine. Trentham selects and handpicks from local artisan producers and its own gardens to bring visitors the freshest daily ingredients, maintaining an ever-changing seasonal menu that complements the philosophy of high-quality food.
The panoramic views can also be enjoyed while indulging in a gourmet share plate or coffee and cake on the lawns, or sharing a fully-catered ‘cook-your-own’ BBQ lunch on a weekend. Come and enjoy the Trentham Experience!
Cellar Door open 7 days for tastings & sales, 10am-5pm. Restaurant open for lunch Wednesday - Sunday.
Fully catered BBQs Saturday and Sunday. Outdoors Share plates, coffee and cake, available 7 days.
https://trenthamestate.com.au info@trenthamestate.com.au
Address: 6531 Sturt Highway, Trentham Cliffs, NSW 2738, Phone: 03 5024 8888 for more information.
Note: Sunraysia Cellar Door at 125 Lime Ave, Mildura have over 200 wines from 22 Murray Darling wine producers all under the one roof including Trentham Estate wines. www.sunraysiacellardoor.com.au
The Cellar Door offers tastings and sales of the vast range of wines with something to please all tastes. There are classic, rounded styles such as Chardonnay, Sauvignon Blanc, Merlot and Shiraz, right through to award-winning alternative varieties including Vermentino, Taminga, Prosecco and Nero d’Avola. The knowledgeable team are happy to walk you through a tasting.
Dine alfresco or inside the Restaurant, where the focus is on the use of local produce to create contemporary Australian cuisine. Trentham selects and handpicks from local artisan producers and its own gardens to bring visitors the freshest daily ingredients, maintaining an ever-changing seasonal menu that complements the philosophy of high-quality food.
The panoramic views can also be enjoyed while indulging in a gourmet share plate or coffee and cake on the lawns, or sharing a fully-catered ‘cook-your-own’ BBQ lunch on a weekend. Come and enjoy the Trentham Experience!
Cellar Door open 7 days for tastings & sales, 10am-5pm. Restaurant open for lunch Wednesday - Sunday.
Fully catered BBQs Saturday and Sunday. Outdoors Share plates, coffee and cake, available 7 days.
https://trenthamestate.com.au info@trenthamestate.com.au
Address: 6531 Sturt Highway, Trentham Cliffs, NSW 2738, Phone: 03 5024 8888 for more information.
Note: Sunraysia Cellar Door at 125 Lime Ave, Mildura have over 200 wines from 22 Murray Darling wine producers all under the one roof including Trentham Estate wines. www.sunraysiacellardoor.com.au
5. The Depot Historic Vehicle and Memorabilia Collection
The Depot brings history to life in Deniliquin, it is full of nostalgia and discovery
The Depot has grown around the historic vehicle and memorabilia collections of Neville and Debbie Purtill, and the Purtill family. The family has operated different businesses in the Deniliquin region for three generations. Keith and Pat Purtill started business in the 1950s and, along with their sons and extended family, became a valued part of the local community.
Collecting vehicles that they love, which they have named and that tell a story, the Putills had a dream of taking the collection out of dusty sheds to create an ever-evolving space where history can be experienced and enjoyed. They are proud to share this space with the community of Deniliquin and forever grateful to local businesses, trades people, historians, community groups, volunteers, and staff who contributed to making this dream a reality.
Opening to the public in late February 2020, The Depot collection is housed across a 3,000 square meter complex, taking you on a journey through time. With the visitor experience beginning as soon as you walk in the door, you will be amazed at the large, brightly lit retail store and the generous variety of items on offer, with little knick-knack treasures, signs, collectibles, rare finds and their very own range of branded products. You will not want to walk out empty handed.
Then, stepping through to the Museum entrance, guests are invited to reminisce on, and discover, stories of life at home and on the road. Visitors are encouraged to immerse themselves in the past amongst the family friendly displays and activities. With touches of Hollywood, trucking and transport, Australian motoring, rescue vehicles and cars from all around the world, The Depot museum is full of nostalgia and discovery.
One of the most significant vehicles in the collection is Rosie. Built in 1948, the Bedford OB CAC bus joined the Purtill family from the Rose family in 1974. Rosie experienced semi-retirement on the reserve school bus list until just into the new century, after which time she received some attention to bring her back to original working condition. When she entered The Depot collection in 2020, Rosie was recognised as the oldest continually-registered school bus in Australia. Rosie is currently positioned in shed one at The Depot, and she provides a great photo opportunity with an old-style bus shelter in the background.
Located on the first floor adjacent to the mezzanine is the unique, purpose-built function facility, The Cadillac Room. Providing an ideal backdrop and flexible layout for a variety of functions. This versatile function space is an ideal corporate setting, complete with the latest audio-visual technology. With a theme inspired by the classic 1959 Cadillac that is part of the collection, sophisticated black and white prints, the décor and custom built bar provide a sleek modern feel.
New to the complex in July 2020 was the Cruizin' Diner, which is open 7 days a week and is just another space where you can step into the past and enjoy an immersive 1950s experience. Decked out to the max with vinyl booths, neon signs, 50’s tunes and a flavoursome menu, the family friendly environment is complete with a children’s play area and indoor/outdoor dining spaces.
The theme is carried through to the Truckies' Lounge and brand new shower and laundry facilities, giving drivers the chance to stop, revive and dine, while still experiencing the total package.
This is most certainly a destination you must visit when in the local area.
The Depot is open 7 days a week, Monday - Friday, 10am - 4pm and Saturday - Sunday, 10am - 3pm.
Phone: 1300 819 000 Email: depot@depotdeni.com.au Address: 158 Hardinge Street Deniliquin NSW
www.purtills.com.au
www.depotdeni.com.au
www.google.com/reviews
https://iview.abc.net.au/show/back-roads
www.airbnb.com.au/deniliquin-australia/stay
www.youtube.com/thedepot/historiccollection
www.aussietowns.com.au/town/deniliquin-nsw
www.visitthemurray.com.au/places-to-go/central/deni
www.youtube.com/depothistoriccollection/classicrestos
www.facebook.com/Museum/The-Depot-Historic-Collection
Collecting vehicles that they love, which they have named and that tell a story, the Putills had a dream of taking the collection out of dusty sheds to create an ever-evolving space where history can be experienced and enjoyed. They are proud to share this space with the community of Deniliquin and forever grateful to local businesses, trades people, historians, community groups, volunteers, and staff who contributed to making this dream a reality.
Opening to the public in late February 2020, The Depot collection is housed across a 3,000 square meter complex, taking you on a journey through time. With the visitor experience beginning as soon as you walk in the door, you will be amazed at the large, brightly lit retail store and the generous variety of items on offer, with little knick-knack treasures, signs, collectibles, rare finds and their very own range of branded products. You will not want to walk out empty handed.
Then, stepping through to the Museum entrance, guests are invited to reminisce on, and discover, stories of life at home and on the road. Visitors are encouraged to immerse themselves in the past amongst the family friendly displays and activities. With touches of Hollywood, trucking and transport, Australian motoring, rescue vehicles and cars from all around the world, The Depot museum is full of nostalgia and discovery.
One of the most significant vehicles in the collection is Rosie. Built in 1948, the Bedford OB CAC bus joined the Purtill family from the Rose family in 1974. Rosie experienced semi-retirement on the reserve school bus list until just into the new century, after which time she received some attention to bring her back to original working condition. When she entered The Depot collection in 2020, Rosie was recognised as the oldest continually-registered school bus in Australia. Rosie is currently positioned in shed one at The Depot, and she provides a great photo opportunity with an old-style bus shelter in the background.
Located on the first floor adjacent to the mezzanine is the unique, purpose-built function facility, The Cadillac Room. Providing an ideal backdrop and flexible layout for a variety of functions. This versatile function space is an ideal corporate setting, complete with the latest audio-visual technology. With a theme inspired by the classic 1959 Cadillac that is part of the collection, sophisticated black and white prints, the décor and custom built bar provide a sleek modern feel.
New to the complex in July 2020 was the Cruizin' Diner, which is open 7 days a week and is just another space where you can step into the past and enjoy an immersive 1950s experience. Decked out to the max with vinyl booths, neon signs, 50’s tunes and a flavoursome menu, the family friendly environment is complete with a children’s play area and indoor/outdoor dining spaces.
The theme is carried through to the Truckies' Lounge and brand new shower and laundry facilities, giving drivers the chance to stop, revive and dine, while still experiencing the total package.
This is most certainly a destination you must visit when in the local area.
The Depot is open 7 days a week, Monday - Friday, 10am - 4pm and Saturday - Sunday, 10am - 3pm.
Phone: 1300 819 000 Email: depot@depotdeni.com.au Address: 158 Hardinge Street Deniliquin NSW
www.purtills.com.au
www.depotdeni.com.au
www.google.com/reviews
https://iview.abc.net.au/show/back-roads
www.airbnb.com.au/deniliquin-australia/stay
www.youtube.com/thedepot/historiccollection
www.aussietowns.com.au/town/deniliquin-nsw
www.visitthemurray.com.au/places-to-go/central/deni
www.youtube.com/depothistoriccollection/classicrestos
www.facebook.com/Museum/The-Depot-Historic-Collection
6. Chrystie's Museum - Tocumwal
Chrystie's Museum is the accidental museum that started in 2004 in NSW
George Chrystie started collecting anything old in 1989 in the hope that one day he could sell them later in life in place of the superannuation that he did not have. He always ran his own business and there was no superannuation in place at that time. With George's many interests in anything old, his collection soon grew over many years.
George was born in 1939 and lived in Kinglake in Victoria all his life until he retired in 2003. He got his first car, a 1926 Buick (paddock) car, when he was 13 years old. He had never had any mechanical experience and his father told him he would not be able to get it going, but he was determined, so he saved his money, bought the car for 10 pounds, and proved his father wrong and got it going. He was working in the Kinglake sawmill at that time, and by the time George was 15, being the saver that he is, had saved 300 pounds out of his weekly wage of 11 pound, 3 and sixpence. With this money, he went halves with his father and they bought a 1956 grey Fergie tractor and worked it consistently every weekend, doing whatever he could to earn extra money.
When George was about 16, he took a fancy to a young lady (Jean Gardner) he met while doing a job on his Fergie for a local potato farmer, the farmer's daughter. Jean was working weekends at the local Devonshire tea cafe, so George went there every Sunday afternoon, had his Devonshire tea, and then drove her home on the back of his tractor. He had a saw bench set up on the tractor and that’s where she would sit. This happened every weekend for well over 12 months until George turned 18 and got his licence and bought a 1926 Chevrolet Capital 4 door sedan. After that Jean was no longer allowed to travel with him because her parents were very strict and did not like her travelling in motor cars. That was the end of the relationship.
He married his wife, Joan Exton (at 19) from a local potato farming family, in 1962. He was working full time for himself by this time, still with his Fergie, but he had also bought himself a chainsaw and was cutting and selling firewood and using the Fergie to cart it.
During all this time, George discovered he was pretty good at doing his own mechanical repairs so he bought his first truck, a 1942 Chevrolet, and started selling firewood in Melbourne as he could get twice as much money selling it down there. The sawmill he used to work for was buying logs from him as well, so he fitted his truck with a Ford 2 speed diff and made up a timber jinker for it and away he went, working the rest of his working career in the timber industry, buying and selling his trucks and tractors and doing most of the mechanical repairs himself. By the end of his career in the industry, he had employed five drivers for his trucks, two of whom were his sons, Anthony and Mark.
In the meantime, he had bought a small portable sawmill and worked it in his spare time and weekends. He was very good at this and was asked to go to Vietnam, Indonesia, and Chile to teach people the workings of the sawmill over three years. This was the highlight of his life and he met some genuine and interesting people in these regions.
George has a big passion for cars, and could probably name every make and model of car that was ever made. He used his knowledge of this to build his own speedway racing car and began racing all over northern Victoria. He built a number of cars during his speedway days, won many races, and got both his sons racing at age 10. Today his grandson Brody (now 24) still races and does very well racing all over Australia.
George says Joan, his wife of 55 years, was the backbone of his successful business, his rock. She did all the collecting of bad debts, paid all the accounts, did all the fetching and carrying for the business and all of this while bringing up three children. She worked hard, had the knack of making ends meet, and was great with the bookwork. During this time, George was secretly collecting anything that was old that he thought he would be able to sell at a later date to make money on.
Starts car collection in 1989 and retires to Tocumwal in 2004
In 2004, Joan and George retired to Tocumwal in NSW. They bought 4 acres of vacant land, built a big shed and put a caravan on the property and moved in. While they were waiting for the house to be built, they discovered that confined living was not for them so they bought a cottage in Tocumwal to live in while waiting on the building of the house. Meanwhile George started moving all his little secrets into the shed until it finally looked like a museum, so they decided to open it as a museum and it all went from there.
George started his collections in 1989. He bought a 1953 English Mk 1 Zephyr, 1 owner, for $800. He later bought another Zephyr, this time a Mk2, 1600 miles, 1 owner for $3000 and he hasn’t stopped collecting since. His big shed that he built before the house soon became too small, so he had to extend again and again, until it became what it is today. Apart from cars, trucks, and caravans, George's museum also houses motor bikes, push bikes, chain saws, cameras, toys, dolls, tools, lamps, fuel bowsers, pedal cars, woodwork tools, clocks & radios, glassware collectables, Royal Family collectables, and just about anything else you can think of.
Joan, George’s dearly beloved wife of 55 years, passed away early in 2018 and life for him has just not been the same since, although his passion for collecting remains the same. George also has a museum mascot, Cocky-Elvis, the bald cockatoo, has been a member of the family since soon after moving to Tocumwal in 2004. Many people that come back to the museum for a second or third time always ask after Cocky. Elvis is a very spoilt bird, has his own heater, and gets fed every time he squeaks.
Thank you for reading my story, George.
Tocumwal Town Beach
www.clubtocumwal.com
www.tocgolfresort.com.au
www.berriganshire.nsw.gov.au
www.booking.com/city/au/tocumwal
www.airbnb.com.au/tocumwal-australia
www.aussietowns.com.au/town/tocumwal-nsw
www.visitnsw.com/destinations/country-nsw/the-murray/tocumwal
www.tripadvisor.com.au/Attractions-g529032-Activities-Tocumwal_NSW
Note: The Tocumwal Aviation Museum is aprox. 2 kms to Chrystie's Museum.
Phone: (03) 5874 3358 Address: 139 Thorburns Rd, Tocumwal NSW 2714
Entrance fees: Adults $7, Pensioners $5, Buses $2 per person and Children are free.
George was born in 1939 and lived in Kinglake in Victoria all his life until he retired in 2003. He got his first car, a 1926 Buick (paddock) car, when he was 13 years old. He had never had any mechanical experience and his father told him he would not be able to get it going, but he was determined, so he saved his money, bought the car for 10 pounds, and proved his father wrong and got it going. He was working in the Kinglake sawmill at that time, and by the time George was 15, being the saver that he is, had saved 300 pounds out of his weekly wage of 11 pound, 3 and sixpence. With this money, he went halves with his father and they bought a 1956 grey Fergie tractor and worked it consistently every weekend, doing whatever he could to earn extra money.
When George was about 16, he took a fancy to a young lady (Jean Gardner) he met while doing a job on his Fergie for a local potato farmer, the farmer's daughter. Jean was working weekends at the local Devonshire tea cafe, so George went there every Sunday afternoon, had his Devonshire tea, and then drove her home on the back of his tractor. He had a saw bench set up on the tractor and that’s where she would sit. This happened every weekend for well over 12 months until George turned 18 and got his licence and bought a 1926 Chevrolet Capital 4 door sedan. After that Jean was no longer allowed to travel with him because her parents were very strict and did not like her travelling in motor cars. That was the end of the relationship.
He married his wife, Joan Exton (at 19) from a local potato farming family, in 1962. He was working full time for himself by this time, still with his Fergie, but he had also bought himself a chainsaw and was cutting and selling firewood and using the Fergie to cart it.
During all this time, George discovered he was pretty good at doing his own mechanical repairs so he bought his first truck, a 1942 Chevrolet, and started selling firewood in Melbourne as he could get twice as much money selling it down there. The sawmill he used to work for was buying logs from him as well, so he fitted his truck with a Ford 2 speed diff and made up a timber jinker for it and away he went, working the rest of his working career in the timber industry, buying and selling his trucks and tractors and doing most of the mechanical repairs himself. By the end of his career in the industry, he had employed five drivers for his trucks, two of whom were his sons, Anthony and Mark.
In the meantime, he had bought a small portable sawmill and worked it in his spare time and weekends. He was very good at this and was asked to go to Vietnam, Indonesia, and Chile to teach people the workings of the sawmill over three years. This was the highlight of his life and he met some genuine and interesting people in these regions.
George has a big passion for cars, and could probably name every make and model of car that was ever made. He used his knowledge of this to build his own speedway racing car and began racing all over northern Victoria. He built a number of cars during his speedway days, won many races, and got both his sons racing at age 10. Today his grandson Brody (now 24) still races and does very well racing all over Australia.
George says Joan, his wife of 55 years, was the backbone of his successful business, his rock. She did all the collecting of bad debts, paid all the accounts, did all the fetching and carrying for the business and all of this while bringing up three children. She worked hard, had the knack of making ends meet, and was great with the bookwork. During this time, George was secretly collecting anything that was old that he thought he would be able to sell at a later date to make money on.
Starts car collection in 1989 and retires to Tocumwal in 2004
In 2004, Joan and George retired to Tocumwal in NSW. They bought 4 acres of vacant land, built a big shed and put a caravan on the property and moved in. While they were waiting for the house to be built, they discovered that confined living was not for them so they bought a cottage in Tocumwal to live in while waiting on the building of the house. Meanwhile George started moving all his little secrets into the shed until it finally looked like a museum, so they decided to open it as a museum and it all went from there.
George started his collections in 1989. He bought a 1953 English Mk 1 Zephyr, 1 owner, for $800. He later bought another Zephyr, this time a Mk2, 1600 miles, 1 owner for $3000 and he hasn’t stopped collecting since. His big shed that he built before the house soon became too small, so he had to extend again and again, until it became what it is today. Apart from cars, trucks, and caravans, George's museum also houses motor bikes, push bikes, chain saws, cameras, toys, dolls, tools, lamps, fuel bowsers, pedal cars, woodwork tools, clocks & radios, glassware collectables, Royal Family collectables, and just about anything else you can think of.
Joan, George’s dearly beloved wife of 55 years, passed away early in 2018 and life for him has just not been the same since, although his passion for collecting remains the same. George also has a museum mascot, Cocky-Elvis, the bald cockatoo, has been a member of the family since soon after moving to Tocumwal in 2004. Many people that come back to the museum for a second or third time always ask after Cocky. Elvis is a very spoilt bird, has his own heater, and gets fed every time he squeaks.
Thank you for reading my story, George.
Tocumwal Town Beach
www.clubtocumwal.com
www.tocgolfresort.com.au
www.berriganshire.nsw.gov.au
www.booking.com/city/au/tocumwal
www.airbnb.com.au/tocumwal-australia
www.aussietowns.com.au/town/tocumwal-nsw
www.visitnsw.com/destinations/country-nsw/the-murray/tocumwal
www.tripadvisor.com.au/Attractions-g529032-Activities-Tocumwal_NSW
Note: The Tocumwal Aviation Museum is aprox. 2 kms to Chrystie's Museum.
Phone: (03) 5874 3358 Address: 139 Thorburns Rd, Tocumwal NSW 2714
Entrance fees: Adults $7, Pensioners $5, Buses $2 per person and Children are free.
7. Tocumwal Aviation Museum
Discover over 100 years of aviation history and heritage at Tocumwal
The Tocumwal Aviation Museum is an engaging new tourism attraction where you can discover the significant and secret wartime history and the heritage of a centenary of aviation here at Tocumwal.
From the first aeroplane landing at Tocumwal in September 1919 through the barnstorming days of the 1920s and early regional airlines of the 1930s to the construction of the largest aerodrome in the southern hemisphere in 1942 and the largest base ever operated by the Royal Australian Air Force and more.
The Tocumwal Aviation Museum was founded by Matt and Karen Henderson who have a vision to engage, educate, entertain and inspire our visitors to foster an appreciation for, and promotion of, Tocumwal’s civilian and military aviation history and heritage.
Our mission is to collect, preserve, study and exhibit artefacts, archival materials and works of art related to Australia’s military and civilian aviation heritage and history with a focus on Tocumwal’s unique contribution.
The Drome Cafe
Located within the Tocumwal Aviation Museum, The Drome Cafe offers a unique dining experience with a modern industrial feel. Open 10am to 4pm, 7 days a week, we have simple yet highest quality dining choices for morning and afternoon tea as well as light lunches using the highest quality local and regional produce wherever possible.
The Drome Cafe is available for private functions and events out of our normal business hours of 10am to 4pm. With seating for up to 60 people in a modern industrial open space, The Drome Cafe offers a unique environment for corporate or club events including Christmas Parties or other special occassion events.
Flying in to Tocumwal
Tocumwal (YTOC) is an all weather aerodrome with runway lighting (RWY 09/27) and instrument approaches (RWY 09/27). Refer to the latest ERSA entry for aerodrome details and circuit operations. Tocumwal operates contra-circuits for the full-length grass strips and gliding activity is prevelant in the summer months. While there is no aviation weather forecasts or present conditions for Tocumwal, it can be assessed from forecasts and actual conditions at aerodromes incluiding Deniliquin (YDLQ), Shepparton (YSHT) and Yarrawonga (YYWG).
www.tocumwalaviationmuseum.com.au
Address: 205 Burma Road Tocumwal, NSW.
PH: (03) 5895 0602 Email: info@tocumwalaviationmuseum.com.au
Open 7 days a week, 10am to 4pm at the Tocumwal Historic Aerodrome.
From the first aeroplane landing at Tocumwal in September 1919 through the barnstorming days of the 1920s and early regional airlines of the 1930s to the construction of the largest aerodrome in the southern hemisphere in 1942 and the largest base ever operated by the Royal Australian Air Force and more.
The Tocumwal Aviation Museum was founded by Matt and Karen Henderson who have a vision to engage, educate, entertain and inspire our visitors to foster an appreciation for, and promotion of, Tocumwal’s civilian and military aviation history and heritage.
Our mission is to collect, preserve, study and exhibit artefacts, archival materials and works of art related to Australia’s military and civilian aviation heritage and history with a focus on Tocumwal’s unique contribution.
The Drome Cafe
Located within the Tocumwal Aviation Museum, The Drome Cafe offers a unique dining experience with a modern industrial feel. Open 10am to 4pm, 7 days a week, we have simple yet highest quality dining choices for morning and afternoon tea as well as light lunches using the highest quality local and regional produce wherever possible.
The Drome Cafe is available for private functions and events out of our normal business hours of 10am to 4pm. With seating for up to 60 people in a modern industrial open space, The Drome Cafe offers a unique environment for corporate or club events including Christmas Parties or other special occassion events.
Flying in to Tocumwal
Tocumwal (YTOC) is an all weather aerodrome with runway lighting (RWY 09/27) and instrument approaches (RWY 09/27). Refer to the latest ERSA entry for aerodrome details and circuit operations. Tocumwal operates contra-circuits for the full-length grass strips and gliding activity is prevelant in the summer months. While there is no aviation weather forecasts or present conditions for Tocumwal, it can be assessed from forecasts and actual conditions at aerodromes incluiding Deniliquin (YDLQ), Shepparton (YSHT) and Yarrawonga (YYWG).
www.tocumwalaviationmuseum.com.au
Address: 205 Burma Road Tocumwal, NSW.
PH: (03) 5895 0602 Email: info@tocumwalaviationmuseum.com.au
Open 7 days a week, 10am to 4pm at the Tocumwal Historic Aerodrome.
8. Historic Commercial & Military Vehicle Museum - Moama
The museum aims to protect and preserve Army Heritage and to promote it's history to the public
Step back in time and experience a bygone era, horse drawn equipment, amphibious, military, vintage vehicles and classic motor cars and motor cycles. Exhibits from the 1900 - 1960's. The large collection has been established since the 1970's and often seen on TV programs such as, The Sullivans, Mission Impossible, Rose against the odds, My brother Tom, Postcards with Coxy and What's Up Downunder on Channel 10.
The Collection includes the following items:
1928 Model AA Ford truck.
1954 Daimler Ferret Scout car.
Morris Commercial 1941 Model.
1943 Ford Jeep, Made in the USA.
A display of Georgia Confederate infantry.
1943 Matchless G3L, made in Great Britain.
Cushman motor bike Model 53 1944 Vintage.
1941 4x2 Chevrolet Ambulance, made in Canada.
White Half track made in USA personnel carrier 1942.
M series Dodge and purchased from the Israeli Forces.
1942, 3' trench morter MK2 used by the Australian Army.
1942 Harley Davidson model WLAC, purchased in Europe.
19941 Desert Chevand used in North Africa by Long Range Desert Group.
1943 Std Baker (weasel) used in Holland during the war. Purchased in Ohio in USA.
Chanter Estate - Boutique Winery
Is a unique complex set on 20 acres and has available for tasting a great selection of wines. Enjoy the ambience of this 100 year old church building (moved from Rochester) which is available for hire. Catering is available. Wine tasting and cellar door sales, condiment selections, cheese platers and eating grapes in season.
Note: Ian Ledwidge purchased the Holy Trinity Church in Rochester, Victoria. It opened for it's first service in 1884. The church was advertised for removal in 1996 to make way for extensions to the Murray Goulburn Dairy's factory.
Address: 155 Chanter Street, Moama, just over the border from Echuca in Victoria.
Phone Office: 03 5480 7878 or 03 5480 0334 Email: chanterestatewinery@bigpond.com
Opening Hours: Weekends 10 am - 4.30 pm and public holidays. Appointments at all other times.
Step back in time and experience a bygone era, horse drawn equipment, amphibious, military, vintage vehicles and classic motor cars and motor cycles. Exhibits from the 1900 - 1960's. The large collection has been established since the 1970's and often seen on TV programs such as, The Sullivans, Mission Impossible, Rose against the odds, My brother Tom, Postcards with Coxy and What's Up Downunder on Channel 10.
The Collection includes the following items:
1928 Model AA Ford truck.
1954 Daimler Ferret Scout car.
Morris Commercial 1941 Model.
1943 Ford Jeep, Made in the USA.
A display of Georgia Confederate infantry.
1943 Matchless G3L, made in Great Britain.
Cushman motor bike Model 53 1944 Vintage.
1941 4x2 Chevrolet Ambulance, made in Canada.
White Half track made in USA personnel carrier 1942.
M series Dodge and purchased from the Israeli Forces.
1942, 3' trench morter MK2 used by the Australian Army.
1942 Harley Davidson model WLAC, purchased in Europe.
19941 Desert Chevand used in North Africa by Long Range Desert Group.
1943 Std Baker (weasel) used in Holland during the war. Purchased in Ohio in USA.
Chanter Estate - Boutique Winery
Is a unique complex set on 20 acres and has available for tasting a great selection of wines. Enjoy the ambience of this 100 year old church building (moved from Rochester) which is available for hire. Catering is available. Wine tasting and cellar door sales, condiment selections, cheese platers and eating grapes in season.
Note: Ian Ledwidge purchased the Holy Trinity Church in Rochester, Victoria. It opened for it's first service in 1884. The church was advertised for removal in 1996 to make way for extensions to the Murray Goulburn Dairy's factory.
Address: 155 Chanter Street, Moama, just over the border from Echuca in Victoria.
Phone Office: 03 5480 7878 or 03 5480 0334 Email: chanterestatewinery@bigpond.com
Opening Hours: Weekends 10 am - 4.30 pm and public holidays. Appointments at all other times.