Made a side trip to Wauchope to visit Timbertown, one of the many heritage type villages dotted around the country. This one is a little different to most, first of all it isn't as glossy and commercialised (think Sovereign Hill) and secondly it has a "theme" based around the timber cutting and milling industries that used to exist in this (and other) areas, before the "greenies" put a stop to this fine industry.
They don't realise that unlike coal, timber is a renewable resource if properly managed.
Anyway, we had a very enjoyable visit with lots of interesting things to see and do.
Don't seem to be able to get away from this bird!
Nice "air conditioned" dunny, a three seater no less!
As well as a steam train that circles the village, they have a minitature railway operating, all these rides are included in the (very reasonable) entry price.
There is a fully operating woodwork workshop which has a nice treadle lathe on display outside.
As well as the woodwork shop there is a blacksmith operating, who gave us an interesting demo of his craft.
So many of these trades are now disappearing, this guy was trained at the railways workshops, most of that work now goes to China!
Next on the agenda was a visit to the timber mill, with original steam operated machinery.
Even a steam operated docking saw.
The full szie steam train runs on the hour right around the village site and takes about half an hour.
The steam engine is fed by Black Butt off-cuts from the only mill still operating in the area, what a shame to see such beautiful timber go up in smoke (lots of pen blanks there!)
No comments:
Post a Comment
Note: only a member of this blog may post a comment.