A hand operated brake could be applied by a guard to help the train slow down.
This huge brake van also served as a travelling post office.
This is an extract from a video celebrating the 100th anniversary of the first official airmail flight in Australia. It brought mail from Lismore / Casino to Tenterfield where the Sydney Mail Train was waiting.
A special compartment at the back carried coffins.
There was even a post box on the side for last minute posting.
This small brake van was used on coal trains.
Inside is the strong handbrake and a lever for dropping sand on slippery rails..
This roomy brake van was used on cattle and goods trains.
A single bench seat at the rear of the van was for occasional passengers.
Inside is a display of heavy tools including the mighty “crow” for bending rails. Guess where the word “Crowbar” came from?
This historic Guards Van dates from 1906 and has an old wooden chassis.
The van has been set up as a typical mobile workshop.
In a former life it was someone’s living quarters But the standard stove remained.
