General News
15 May, 2019
RSL lays foundations for retired Melbourne tram
THE Terang Returned and Services League (RSL) sub-branch has made way for a piece of Melbourne’s early history.
THE Terang Returned and Services League (RSL) sub-branch has made way for a piece of Melbourne’s early history.
The RSL received confirmation last year it was successful in its bid to receive an old Melbourne W-class tram through the State Government’s Retired Trams Strategy.
Terang RSL president Steve Bloxham said the group had laid the concrete slab outside the Terang hall ahead of the tram’s arrival in about a month.
“I have spoken to VicTrack and they have advised me that due to the signing of a contractor to transport the trams, the arrival may not be until mid June now,” he said.
“In this time, the foundations will have cured and the electrical and data cabling will be completed.”
Plans for the refurbishment included the construction of a protective roof, a detailed internal and external clean and painting the tram in its original colours of green and yellow and including its original number of 871 on external panels.
Internally, plans have outlined one end of the tram acting as an information centre, fitted out with a smart television, seating, carpet, an interactive iPad and a Bluetooth sound system.
The other end would replicate a World War II recruiting centre, complete with a desk, a manual typewriter, a Bakelite telephone, framed recruiting posters and a mannequin dressed in a World War II army uniform.
An interpretive sign would also be placed on the exterior of the tram with the history of the tram displayed.
The Retired Trams Strategy would see 134 out of 237 recently retired trams provided to schools, community groups and other not-for-profit organisations.
All donations to support the project can be sent to the Terang RSL sub-branch via BSB 083884 and account number 516029365.
For more information on the project, contact Steve Bloxham on 0436 411 499.