Bundanoon’s story is etched in this very building. Here at the Old Goods Shed we stand amidst echoes of a bygone era. This unassuming structure played a vital role in the town’s development. It is now a tangible link to its railway past.
The Goods Shed dates back to around 1885. It was a crucial part of the Bundanoon Railway Station complex. The entire station complex holds state heritage significance in New South Wales. The Goods Shed served a simple yet essential purpose then. It stored goods transported by rail.
Imagine the bustle here. Wagons lined up ready to load and unload. The Old Goods Shed is unique. Unlike many railway buildings it lacks a platform on the railway side. Each wagon needed careful maneuvering. Doors aligned precisely with the shed doors for loading and unloading. It seems a clumsy arrangement now. This design became a standard within NSW later.
The Goods Shed itself is relatively small. It measures just 30ft x 15ft. Its construction is simple and sturdy. A hardwood frame supports corrugated iron walls. A gabled roof protects the goods within. Look closely at the iron. The corrugated sheets came from England. The Gospel Oak Iron Works in Tipton made them. Gospel Oak began exporting iron to Australia around 1850. Their brand an anchor symbol between G and O is stamped on the iron sheets.
Time brought changes to the Goods Shed. Its primary function faded as rail transport evolved. The building risked neglect and decay. In 1993 the Bundanoon History Group stepped in to save the day. They leased the shed from the Australian Rail Track Corporation. Their aim was simple to ensure its preservation. The History Group converted the shed into a small museum. It now hosts historical displays. They also use it to store their collection of photos and documents.
Local tradesmen volunteered their skills. They restored the shed and built an insulated room inside. This special room houses the History Group records. In December 1994 Mayor David Wood officially opened the refurbished Goods Shed. It became the official headquarters of the Bundanoon History Group.
In 2018 the Goods Shed received a fresh coat of paint. It was repainted in heritage colours. This refurbishment celebrated 150 years since the railway first arrived in Bundanoon on 6 August 1868.
Inside the Goods Shed you can see regularly updated displays. They feature information and photographs. These relate to Bundanoon’s rich history. The archived documents and photographic collection are available for viewing. There are over 2000 images. Most records are open for inspection and research.
The Shed is open to the public on the first and third Sundays of the month. This coincides with the Bundanoon Markets. Special requests for viewings are also possible.
The Bundanoon History Group formed in the early 1980s. They meet monthly since 1984. Guest speakers on local history are a regular feature of their meetings. New members and visitors are always welcome.
The group assists with public inquiries about Bundanoon history. They sell copies of some photos. They also publish and sell books on local history. They hold regular guided tours to places of historical interest. This Goods Shed stands as a testament to their dedication.
So step inside the Old Goods Shed. Explore the displays and delve into Bundanoon’s past. This building is more than just a shed. It is a living piece of history preserved for generations to come.