Entertainment
26 December, 2020
Weekend Getaway - New engine steams into Herberton
VINTAGE machinery buffs are in for a century old blast from the past when the Historic Village Herberton rolls out its latest working treasures.
The lovingly restored 1905 Marshall Steam Traction Engine and 1921 AEC Tipper Truck were bought in an online auction from Victoria in June this year but have only just arrived in Herberton.
The two-speed, single cylinder, six horsepower Marshall Steam Traction Engine was originally built as an agricultural machine in Gainsborough, England, by Marshall, Sons and Company, which was founded in 1848.
The fully restored 1921 Associated Equipment Company (AEC) Tipper Truck features a four-cylinder, side valve petrol engine with magneto ignition and crank start.
It has a gate shift, four-speed gear box with one reverse speed and a heavy-duty worm drive differential, cast spoke wheels and hand and foot brake for the rear wheels.
Darryl Cooper, museum curator at the Historic Village, said the open-air pioneer village was the perfect showcase for Australia’s early industrial past.
“These industrial marvels followed in the footsteps of draught horses, bullock teams and camel trains and existed side by side with new technology like petrol engines for many years.
“Steam engines, road locomotives and traction engines enabled the growth of the country’s agricultural, mining, transport and sawmilling sectors, helping to build roads, provide power and replace manual labour,” he said.
The Historic Village Herberton offers a rare glimpse into Australia’s pioneering past with more than 60 period buildings housing exhibits from World War II to John Deere Tractors and pioneer living.
Historic Village Herberton is pet friendly (dogs on leads are welcome) so the whole family can enjoy the sights and even picnic in the lovely grounds.
For opening times and admission prices see www.historicvillageherberton.com.au
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