Elsternwick Siding - Site of

Statement of Significance

The site represents a way of life no longer parctised.

History

Anthony Hordern was issued a contract under the Land Grant Scheme, to provide a railway line through the area. In 1884, John Waddington proposed the Geraldton line, based on Hordern's contact. It was intended to run between York and Geraldton but later changed to Midland and Walkaway (Geraldton). The original proposal had the line running through New Norcia, Walebing and Clune's Mill. However after much objection was raised about the threat to leaseholders in the region: Clinch, Salvado and Lefroy, led to the prevention of the line through that area. In 1886, the "Waddington Agreement" was drawn up and on 1st March 1886, Edward Keane, the building contractor commenced the line from both ends (Geraldton and Midland). Fianancial problems were soon apparent and construction ws ceased between 1887 and 1890. In 1894, Herbert Bond took over and the Midland Railway Company took over the concessions. In 1893, the railhead was established at Moora, with the line open through to Geraldton in November 1894. Trains firstly ran three times a week, but soon increased to six times a week. By 1901, there was one train each way every day except Sundays, Good Friday and Christmas Day.

Uses

Historic Themes

Creation Date

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This information is provided voluntarily as a public service. The information provided is made available in good faith and is derived from sources believed to be reliable and accurate. However, the information is provided solely on the basis that readers will be responsible for making their own assessment of the matters discussed herein and are advised to verify all relevant representations, statements and information.