Dear reader,
This text is not intended to be a
definitive work but merely an introduction to the history of the one time unique
village and industrial complex, which had existed at Newnes from 1906 – 1940.
The story of the Wolgan Valley Railway has been thoroughly dealt with in other
publications such as 'Shale Railways of NSW' by E.M. Stephens and 'The Wolgan
Valley Railways' by Henry Dean. As more material comes to light in the future
it is hoped that this work can be expanded.
Today very little physical evidence
remains to show us that one of the largest industrial developments in Australia
had existed in the northern end of the Wolgan Valley. What few ruins remain are
now quickly being reclaimed by the bush yet Newnes still provides many hours or
days of fascinating exploration. For those who visit the Wolgan Valley I hope
that this booklet will give more meaning to the overgrown ruins which are all
that remains of an industrial complex and community that was once described as
a national asset. Today these relics are a reminder of Australia's early
attempts to be self sufficient in regard to the production of oil.
This booklet is 64 pages, A4 size.
Thanks for looking. Please let me know if you would like to order a copy.
Here is a preview Photo Gallery.
E-mail me (Greg Taylor): glendavispress@gmail.com for any enquiries or to make a book order.