New South Wales Government Railways and Tramways Roll of Honour Plaque

Enclosed within the grand concourse of Sydney’s Central Station, the New South Wales Government Railways and Tramways Roll of Honour Plaque stands as a poignant tribute. This plaque, and its companion boards, whisper stories of service and sacrifice from the tumultuous years of World War One. The New South Wales Government Railways and Tramways Roll of Honour Plaque isn’t just a list of names. It’s a window into a time when ordinary people performed extraordinary acts of bravery. It commemorates the railway and tramway workers who answered the call to arms, leaving behind their familiar routines to face the uncertainties of war. Initially unveiled on March 12, 1916, the original roll of honour bore 150 names. It was a temporary tribute, intended to be replaced by a permanent memorial later. As the war progressed, and the casualty lists grew, so too did the roll of honour. Over 1,200 names eventually filled multiple boards. Crafted by fellow railway workers in the Eveleigh Carriage Workshops, the boards are a testament to the skill and dedication of those who remained on the home front. These weren’t just soldiers; they were colleagues, friends, and family members. Men who had driven trams through Sydney’s streets or ensured the smooth running of the railways. They traded their civilian roles for military uniforms, joining the ranks of the Australian Expeditionary Forces. Over 8,000 employees of the New South Wales Government Railways and Tramways enlisted during World War One. The New South Wales Government Railways and Tramways Roll of Honour Plaque stands as a solemn reminder of their commitment. The plaque encapsulates a shared history, a community’s grief, and the lasting legacy of a generation touched by war. The names inscribed on the New South Wales Government Railways and Tramways Roll of Honour Plaque resonate with echoes of service and sacrifice, forever etched into the heart of Sydney’s Central Station.