Cobram Regional Park VKFF-0961

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After being rained out at the Strathmerton Bushland Reserve on Tuesday, 4th November 2025, Marija and I headed to the town of Cobram. Our intention was to activate the Cobram Regional Park VKFF-0961.

Above: Map showing the location of Cobram Regional Park. Map c/o Google Maps

The original run where Cobram is now located was Yarroweya, later to become Yarrawonga. It was taken up in 1842 by Mrs Elizabeth Hume, who was the widow of John Kennedy Hume, who had been killed by bushrangers in 1840. Yarowea is an Aboriginal word meaning ‘strong wind’. (Moira SHire 2007) (Trove 2026)

John Kennedy Hume was the brother of the explorer Hamilton Hume. On the 20th day of January 1840, he rode into Gunning after hearing gunshots. He was met by Thomas Whitton, @Captain Whitton, and his gang of bushrangers. Whitton shot Hume dead. He was just 39 years of age. (Findagrave.com 2017) (Trove 2026)

In 1845, Octavius Philpotts established the pastoral station Cobram which had been part of Yarroweya. It is believed that Cobram is an Aboriginal word meaning ‘head’ and that the station was named as such due it being the head pastoral station in the district. (Cockatoo Grove 2025) (Vict Places n.d.)

Above: from the NSW Govt Gazette, Sat 26 Aug 1848. Image c/o Trove

Octavius Philpotts was born in 1822 in Durham, England. His father, Henry Philpotts, was the Bishop of Exeter. In February 1860, he married Georgina Harriet Lane in Plymouth, Devon, England. In January 1855 the run was subdivided into the runs of Cobram and St James. In 1864, Philpotts sold the Cobram property. He died on the 31st day of January 1869 in Devon, England. (ancestry 2016) (Cockatoo Grove 2025)

During the 1870s, the era of the large pastoral stations was coming to a close. Farmers were taking up smaller sections of land. In the Cobram district, the initial crop was wheat, but orchards with local irigation them commenced. (Vict Places n.d.)

In 1879, a school was opened at Cobram East. In 1888, a school at Cobram was established. The survey of the township of Cobram was underway at the time, with the Cobram Railway League anticipating the extension of the railway line from Numurkah. In 1887, township sites were sold. In the following year, 1888, the railway terminus at Cobram was built. In 1889, a punt service was opened, connecting Victoria and New South Wales across the Murray River. (Vict Places n.d.)

During the mid 1890s, Cobram was described as a rising township. It had two hotels, three stores, two implement factories, a newspaper, a sawmill, a school, a mechanics’ institute, a Methodist church, and a Presbyterian church. (Vict Places n.d.)

We found this beautiful mural on the side of the chemist’s alongside the Grand Central Hotel. The mural features a Sulphur-crested Cockatoo and a Rosella

Another attraction in Cobram is the old log cabin. It was relocated from the Beattie family property in Yarrawonga to its present location. The log cabin dates back to 1874 and was made from large boxwood trees covered with a bark roof and earthen floors.

On the corner of Murray Valley Highway and Station Street is a cairn to commemorate Charles Sturt, the leader of the first European exploration party to pass through the area in June 1838.

Marija and I then drove out to Cobram Regional Park.

Above: an aerial view of Cobram Regional Park. Image c/o Google Maps

The park is 470 hectares in size and has Murray River frontage with several sandy beaches, including Big Toms Beach, Thompson’s Beach, and Dead River Beach. The park contains River Red Gum forest and is home to kangaroos, wallabies, and koalas. Birdlife includes Kingfishers and Egrets. (Parks Victoria n.d.)

We ran our normal portable station for this activation, the Yaesu FT857, 40 watts, and the 20/40/80m linked dipole.

Marija worked the following stations on 40m SSB:-

  1. VK7PJM
  2. VK1AO
  3. VK2MET
  4. VK2VH
  5. VK4AAC
  6. VK3DAC
  7. VK3FE
  8. VK3PF
  9. VK2KAI
  10. VK3PT
  11. VK3GJG
  12. VK3ANL/P (VKFF-0742)

Marija worked the following station on 20m SSB:-

  1. ZL4NVW/p (ZLFF-0023)

I worked the following stations on 40m SSB:-

  1. VK7PJM
  2. VK1AO
  3. VK2MET
  4. VK2VH
  5. VK4AAC
  6. VK3DAC
  7. VK3FE
  8. VK3PF
  9. VK2KAI
  10. VK3PT
  11. VK3GJG
  12. VK3MCK
  13. VK3CLD
  14. VK5QA
  15. VK2DBF
  16. VK3OAK
  17. VK3GUM
  18. VK4ZPF
  19. VK3JW
  20. VK3PJF
  21. VK2ZR
  22. VK3MGM
  23. VK2YAK
  24. VK4YAK
  25. VK5IS
  26. VK3ANL/P (VKFF-0742)
  27. VK2KHA
  28. VK2JSW
  29. VK2EXA
  30. VK3EJ
  31. VK3UH
  32. VK5DW
  33. VK3UZI
  34. VK3SQ
  35. VK2BD
  36. VK3JT
  37. VK1DI
  38. VK3XEM
  39. VK5LA
  40. VK5KAW
  41. VK5AYL
  42. VK3APJ
  43. VK3UK
  44. VK3MIJ
  45. VK3KRL
  46. VK3MCA
  47. VK5BRU/P
  48. VK2VW
  49. VK2HFI
  50. VK2AKA
  51. VK2BUG
  52. VK3BAP
  53. VK3HQZ
  54. VK2NP

I worked the following sttaion on 20m SSB:-

  1. ZL4NVW/p (ZLFF-0023)

References.

  1. ancestry (2016). Ancestry® | Genealogy, Family Trees & Family History Records. [online] Ancestry.com.au. Available at: https://www.ancestry.com.au/. [Accessed 1 Apr. 2026]
  2. ‌Findagrave.com. (2017). John Kennedy Hume (1800-1840) – Find a Grave… [online] Available at: https://www.findagrave.com/memorial/115767755/john-kennedy-hume [Accessed 1 Apr. 2026].
  3. ‌Moira Shire, 2007, The Environmental History
  4. Parks Victoria, n.d., Cobram Regional Park Visitor Guide
  5. Trove. (2026). THE SKETCHER. – History of Bushranging in New South Wales. WHITTON’S GANG. No. 2.—1840-1. – The Sydney Mail and New South Wales Advertiser (NSW : 1871 – 1912) – 6 Jan 1894. [online] Available at: https://trove.nla.gov.au/newspaper/article/163325849 [Accessed 1 Apr. 2026].
  6. ‌Trove. (2026). HISTORY OF COBRAM – Weekly Times (Melbourne, Vic. : 1869 – 1954) – 15 Nov 1930. [online] Available at: https://trove.nla.gov.au/newspaper/article/224918755?searchTerm=cobram%20%2B%20octavius%20philpotts [Accessed 1 Apr. 2026].
  7. ‌Victorianplaces.com.au. (2026). Yarroweyah | Victorian Places. [online] Available at: https://www.victorianplaces.com.au/yarroweyah [Accessed 1 Apr. 2026].
  8. ‌www.victorianplaces.com.au. (n.d.). Cobram and Cobram Shire | Victorian Places. [online] Available at: https://www.victorianplaces.com.au/cobram-and-cobram-shire. [Accessed 1 Apr. 2026]‌

Strathmerton Bushland Reserve VKFF-5878

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On Tuesday, 4th November 2026, after leaving Tocumwal, Marija and I headed south towards the Strathmerton Bushland Reserve VKFF-5878 in Victoria.

Above: Map showing the location of the reserve. Map c/o Google Maps

We drove south on the Goulburn Valley Highway and reached Koonoomoo. We were hoping to call into the Big Strawberry at Koonoomoo, but unfortunately, it was closed. That might have been a blessing in disguise, as we were still full from our lunch in Tocumwal and the very nice ice cream at the Tocumwal Ice Creamery.

We then drove northwest on Mywee-Koonoomoo Road, and then north on Farralls Road. We soon reached the park. The reserve was gazetted on the 30th day of September 1984. (Dcceew.gov.au 2025)

Above: the boundaries of the reserve. Image c/o Google Earth

Although called Strathmerton Bushland Reserve, the park is actually in the district of Mywee. The town of Strathmerton is about 10km south. Mywee is an Aboriginal word meaning ‘a well.’ (Wikipedia 2025)

It was drizzling with rain when we arrived at the park, but we were able to put up the 20/40/80m linked dipole. But, within 10 minutes of setting up, the heavens absolutely opened up, and it started hailing. The rain did not stop, and we got absolutely drenched packing up the antenna.

Marija worked the following stations on 40m SSB:-

  1. VK2IO/P (VKFF-0987)
  2. VK2GEZ/P (VKFF-0987)
  3. VK4CK/M
  4. VK3EJ
  5. VK5HS
  6. VK3ZPF
  7. VK3ACZ
  8. VK3ZSC
  9. VK2VW
  10. VK2HFI
  11. VK2AKA
  12. VK2BUG
  13. VK4DNO
  14. VK3DNO

I worked the following stations on 40m SSB:-

  1. VK2IO/P (VKFF-0987)
  2. VK2GEZ/P (VKFF-0987)
  3. VK4CK/M
  4. VK3EJ
  5. VK5HS
  6. VK3ZPF
  7. VK3ACZ
  8. VK3ZSC
  9. VK2VW
  10. VK2HFI
  11. VK2AKA
  12. VK2BUG
  13. VK3PF
  14. VK4DNO
  15. VK2NP
  16. VK3UP
  17. VK3CLD
  18. VK5QA
  19. VK2DBF
  20. VK1AO
  21. VK2MET
  22. VK3WSL
  23. VK1DI
  24. VK2PET
  25. VK5KBJ
  26. VK2BW
  27. VK3MGM
  28. VK3TDX
  29. VK3AIW
  30. VK3LDX
  31. VK3CEO
  32. VK3KLI
  33. VK2ADF
  34. VK2EIS
  35. VK4HMI
  36. VK7HAM
  37. VK3DAC
  38. VK2RB
  39. VK3HJW
  40. VK5FANA
  41. VK7EE
  42. VK2EXA
  43. VK2KAD
  44. VK2YL
  45. VK2ZR
  46. VK3APJ
  47. VK3MCA

References.

  1. Dcceew.gov.au. (2025). Collaborative Australian Protected Areas Database 2024 – DCCEEW. [online] Available at: https://www.dcceew.gov.au/environment/land/nrs/science/capad/2024. [Accessed 31 Mar 2026]
  2. ‌Wikipedia Contributors (2025). Mywee. Wikipedia.‌

Tocumwal Regional Park VKFF-0978 and Tocumwal South silo VK-TCT2 and Tocumwal South 2 silo VK-TCU2

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After leaving Finley on Tuesday, 4th November 2025, Marija and I drove south to Tocumwal on the New South Wales and Victoria State border. We didn’t have any specific plans and just wanted to go for a drive and explore the area.

Above: Map showing the location of Tocumwal. Image c/o Google Maps

Tocumwal is about 275 km north of Melbourne and about 676 km southwest of Sydney. It is located in the southern Riverina region of New South Wales and lies on the northern bank of the Murray River. As of the 2021 Census, Tocumwal’s population was 2,862 people. (Wikipedia 2026)

Prior to European settlement, the Tocumwal area was occupied by the Ulupana and Bangerang Aboriginal people. Tocumwal is believed to be an Aboriginal word meaning ‘deep hole’ or ‘pit’. It was the abode of a native spirit that moved swiftly underground by a subterranean passage and then appeared at the Blow Hole in the granite formation at The Rocks. The Blow Hole is a small outcrop of rocks near The Rocks area northeast of Tocumwal. (Trove 2026) (www.murrayriver.com.au n.d.)

In the early 1840s, the district around Tocumwal was taken up by an English syndicate that ran several pastoral runs, including the Murray Run, the Tuppal Run, Deniliquin Station and others. Some years later, the Royal Bank of Scotland acquired these runs. They placed well known pioneer of the South Western Riverina, Benjamin Boyd in charge of the runs. (Berrigan 2015) (Trove 2026)

Benjamin Boyd was born in Scotland in August 18901. He arrived in Australia in 1842. In the colony of New South Wales, he became a major shipowner, banker, grazier, politician and alleged ‘blackbirder’. Blackbirding was the trade in indentured labourers from the Pacific. Indenturing is a form of labour where a person is contracted to work without a salary for a specified number of years. As a result of the ‘blackbirding’ activities, in 2022, the Ben Boyd National Park named in his honour, was renamed Beowa National Park. (Wikipedia 2020) (Wikipedia 2026)

Above: Benjamin Boyd. Image c/o Wikipedia

In 1855, the bank sold the Murray Station with 8,827 sheep to John Mooney for £13,902 and the Tuppal Station to Mooney for £5,562 with 6,181 sheep. I have seen other sources that state that John Mooney was James Moodie and Dan Mooney. (Trove 2026) (www.murrayriver.com.au n.d.)

Above: part of an article from The Maitland Mercury, Sat 17 Nov 1855. Image c/o Trove

Tuppal Run was then purchased by Messrs Ronald and Macbain, and then by George Watson and Cyrus Hewitt. (Trove 2026)

George John Watson was born in County Carlow, Ireland, in 1831. He emigrated to Melbourne, Australia, in March 1850. In 1851, he became the lessee of the leading colonial horse sale yard, Kirk’s Bazaar. (ancestry 2016) (Eastwood 1976)

Above: George Watson. Image c/o ancestry.com.au

Cyrus Wheeler Hewitt was born in May 1825 in Massachusetts, USA. (ancestry 2016)

Above: Cyrus Hewitt. Image c/o ancestry.com.au

In November 1857, Watson and Hewitt won the mail contract between Melbourne and Sandhurst (current day Bendigo), and Melbourne and Ballarat. In the following month, December, they won the Beechworth mail contract. They purchased the two operating Cobb and Co coachlines. (ancestry 2016) (Eastwood 1976)

In the 1860s, George Watson became a member of the first committee of the Victorian Racing Club. He was renowned for being an outstanding amateur rider and a successful racehorse owner. In 1861, he was a steward for the first Melbourne Cup. In that year, he also won the first Oaks Stakes at Flemington. He became known as one of the most respected men in Victorian horse racing. Watson was a world-renowned race starter with his nickname being the ‘Prince of Starters.’ He died in 1906 at St Kilda, Victoria, aged 80 years. The George Watson Handicap held at Flemington is named in his honour. (Blog 2017) (Eastwood 1976)

Cyrus Hewitt married Margaret Helen Simpson in 1866. They had 2 children. He died in December 1874, in South Africa. (ancestry 2016)

In the 1860s, Tuppal Run was purchased by Messrs. Thomas Brown and Alexander Macfarlane for about £30,000. About thirty years after the purchase of the Tuppal Run by Watson and Hewitt, the Run was sold in the 1890s to Franc Sadleir Falkiner for about £400,000. Not a bad profit. Falkiner also purchased other pastoral interests. (Trove 2026)

Francis Sadleir Falkiner was born in 1833 in Tipperary, Ireland. His father, Daniel was a solicitor whose family had pioneered the woollen industry in Ireland. He emigrated to Australia in c. 1853, and in 1856, he married Emily Elizabeth Bazely at Carisbrook, Victoria. They had 10 children. He died in September 1909 in Deniliquin, N.S.W., aged 75 years. He left his family an estate of £204,000. (ancestry 2016) (Patenall 1972)

Above: Franc Falkiner. Image c/o ancestry.com.au

In the 1860s, Edward Hillson built a bark hotel and store alongside the Murray River, where current day Tocumwal is located. Hillson then built a small punt and established a crossing place on the Murray River between Shepparton and Jerilderie. Steamers travelling along the Murray commenced to make Tocumwal a regular point of call. Due to the increased number of people visiting Tocumwal, Hillson built a larger punt and opened a butcher and baker’s shop. (Berrigan Shire 2025) (Trove 2026)

Hillson was born in 1832 in Sydney. In 1862, he married Mary Ross Forsyth. They had 9 children. He served as a Magistrate at Tocumwal. He was known as ‘The King of Tocumwal.’ He died on the 27th day of June 1892, aged 60 years. (ancestry 2016) (Trove 2026)

Above: article from The Corowa Free Press, Fri 8 Jul 1892. Image c/o Trove

Several historic buildings remain in Tocumwal. Before having some lunch, we drove around the town to admire them and take in their history.

Edward Hillson’s old store still stands on the main street. His former residence, built in the 1850s, can be found alongside the shop. Later in the day, we would pay the shop a visit for some ice cream.

The former Bakery is located on Deniliquin Street at the junction with Jerilderie Street. The bakery was built between 1888 and 1890. (Berrigan Shire 2025)

The present Tattersalls Hotel at Deniliquin Street was built in 1927-28 for Tooth & Co. From c. 1889, a hotel of this name had occupied the site. The old hotel, which included stables, was demolished. (Berrigan Shire 2025)

The former National Bank of Australasia can be found on Murray Street. It was built between 1921 and 1922 as a bank chamber and an attached manager’s residence. The building was designed by Arthur Edgar Dainton, an English-born architect who had previously worked in the southern African colonies. John Smith, a well-known local builder, was contracted to build the bank. This bank branch continued to operate until 1989. (Berrigan Shire 2025)

The Memorial Hall is located on Deniliquin Street. In 1919, the Tocumwal community sought to create a memorial to honour Tocumwal’s soldiers. A few years later, construction commenced on the building, which was completed in 1927. In 1938, Honour Rolls were added to the facade of the building. (Berrigan Shire 2025)

On the facade of the IGA supermarket is a very impressive mural.

The Tocumwal Hotel is located on Deniliquin Street. It was closed for renovations during our visit to Tocumwal. The hotel was established in 1859 by Edward Hillson. It was originally a timber public house with an attached store. In 1868 it was destroyed by a fire. The hotel was rebuilt with the existing structure. In 1900 the hotel underwent significant renovation whilst Frank Staples was the licencee. In 1910 the hotel was sold. (Berrigan Shire 2025)

The Terminus Hotel is located on Deniliquin Street. The hotel was built in 1909 at the behest of John Donkin, an English immigrant. He was a well-known publican, and he strategically constructed the hotel in close proximity to the newly established railway station. (Berrigan Shire 2025)

The Tocumwal Guardian in 1909 described the hotel as:

“The imposing structure is an ornament to the town of Tocumwal and greatly enhances the value of toenship property….”

Above: part of an article from the Tocumwal Guardian & Finley Free Press, Fri 27 Aug 1909. Image c/o Trove

The former Houghton’s Wine Saloon on Murray Street was built c. 1905. It replaced an earlier timber building on the site to accommodate a wine saloon, boarding rooms and dining room. John Thomas Houghton was the first licensee. He died in 1918 and at the time of his death, the Tocumwal Guardian reported that he was “‘well and popularly known in Tocumwal. He was a thrifty and honest man, and was respected by all classes of the community.” (Berrigan Shire 2025) (Trove 2026)

A little building that captured our eye was the former Railway Store on Tuppal Road. Sadly, it appears to be in a run-down condition and was vacant. The Tocumwal Visitor Information Centre previously occupied the building.

The store was built in 1900 for John Wilson and Robert Bustorff and traded as Bridge Stores. The partnership did not last long, and in November 1901, the partnership dissolved. Wilson became the sole owner, and as the business grew, the building was expanded. In February 1912, Wilson sold the business to Mr Cunningham, who continued to trade from the building, assisted by his wife. It was at this time that the business name was changed to Railway Stores. Two years later, in 1914, the store was sold to James Flanagan. The business was later sold to Laurence Plowright, who continued to run the store until the 1960s. (Berrigan Shire 2025) (Facebook 2026)

Above: article from The Berrigan Advocate, Fri 6 Mar 1903. Image c/o Trove

I found this plaque in the main street commemorating the Tocumwal flour mill. Marija and I would activate this silo lateer in the day.

Marija and I then visited Tocumwal’s Big Murray Cod. It was originally erected at the old swimming pool in 1968, but was later removed to its current location. The idea of the Big Murray Cod was that of three women from the auxiliary of the local Chamber of Commerce, Miss Kathryn Moore, Miss Alice Johnson, and Mrs Lorna Nash. At the time, it was just the second ‘Big Thing’ to go on display in Australia. (Visitnsw.com 2015)

We then drove out to the Tocumwal Aviation Museum.

During the Second World War, Tocumwal was home to the Royal Australian Air Force Station Tocumwal. It was a major RAAF training airfield and aircraft depot. Tocumwal was the largest base operated by the RAAG during WWII and the largest base ever operated by the RAAF in its history. (Wikipedia 2026)

The museum has an excellent display of aircraft and RAAF memorabilia. We wandered around for a few hours.

One of the aircraft on display is a de Havilland DHC-1 Chipmunk. The Chipmunk was developed shortly after WWII and was typically employed as a replacement for the de Havilland Tiger Moth biplane. The particular Chipmunk on display was manufactured and delivered to the Royal Air Force in November 1951. Following a brief flying career, the aircraft was put into storage and then declared surplus and sold in 1956.

An interesting display is the bulletproof glass from a B-24 Liberator and the nose wheel of a B-24.

There is also an excellent mural of a B-24 Liberator. There were 54 Liberator bombers of No. 7 Operational Training Unit located at RAAF Station Tocumwal. About 4,500 airmen acquired the skills at Tocumwal to take these aircraft into the theatre of war.

The De Havilland DH-89A Dominie were manufactured between 1934 and 1946.

One display that really interested me was the Aermacchi MB-326H. This aircraft was a light military jet trainer that was designed and manufactured by Italian aircraft manufacturer, Aermacchi. They were powered by a single Rolls-Royce Viper non-afterburning turbojet engine. The RAAF used them as a jet trainer. They were used by the RAAF’s aerobatic team The Roulettes.

This Wirriway is owned by Paul Bennett, an Australian aerobatic pilot. He has performed at the Tocumwal Air Show.

The CAC CA-28 Ceres was developed by Commonwealth Aircraft Corporation (CAC) Pty Ltd as a heavy payload agricultural aircraft.

Outside, the museum has a beautiful garden to stroll around.

At the front of the museum, there are silhouettes of aircraft flown at Tocumwal.

You can also find the blade propellor of a B-24 Liberator.

This is still an active airfield.

We enjoyed a nice lunch in ‘The Drome’ restaurant at the aviation museum, and then headed back into town to the Tocumwal Ice Creamery for some very yummy ice cream.

With full bellies, we drove towards the Tocumwal Regional Park for a park activation for the World Wide Flora Fauna (WWFF) program.

We stopped briefly to view the historic Tocumwal railway station. It was opened in February 1929 and is now closed, but houses a small railway museum. It is listed on the New South Wales State Heritage Register. (Wikipedia 2026)

The Tocumwal South silo VK-TCT2 is located alongside the old Seymour Tocumwal Railway, and close to the Tocumwal Railway Heritage Museum. They consist of two steel Aquila-type silos. It is one of 4 silos in Tocumwal that qualify for the Silos On The Air (SiOTA) program.

The Tocumwal South 2 silo VK-TCU2 is also located alongside the old Seymour Tocumwal Railway, a little further to the south of the Tocumwal South silo.

In 1911, Henry George Wise and his brother Thomas Walter Wise purchased land next to the Victorian railway line in Tocumwal to construct a flour mill. The mill commenced operation in 1913 and featured a 13-sack roller design.

Above: part of an article from the Tocumwal Guardian, Fri 29 Aug 1913. Image c/o Trove

Henry George Wise was born in October 1843 in County Cork, Ireland. His younger brother, Thomas Walter Wise, was born in December 1850 in County Cork, Ireland. Henry emigrated to Australia in 1861. He died on the 2nd day of February 1926 at Paddington, N.S.W. His brother Thomas emigrated to Australia in 1860, when aged 10, with his father and mother, George and Elizabeth Wise. He died on the 29th day of August 1922 in Sydney, N.S.W. (ancestry 2016)

Above: Thomas Wise. Image c/o ancestry.com.au

The two original 10,000 bushel wheat silos at this location were designed and built by Sir John Monash of the State Monier Pipe Company. In May 1912, construction commenced on the 50-foot-high silos.

Above: Sir John Monash. Image c/o Wikipedia

In March 1945, a fire at the Tcocumwal mill caused about £30,000 in damage. The mill was saved by the RAAF Fire Brigade.

Above: article from The Pastoral Times, Tue 13 Feb 1945. Image c/o Trove

Interestingly, the Tocumwal Regional Park is actually located in Victoria. We travelled across the mighty Murray River on the Edward Hillson Bridge to reach the park. A point of interest, the Murray is known as the River Murray in South Australia and the Murray River in Victoria and New South Wales. The Edward Hillson Bridge is named in honour of Edward Hillson, who I have spoken about above.

This was not the first bridge to span the Murray at Tocumwal. The original bridge was opened on Easter Monday in 1895 by J.H. Young, the Minister for Works. Members of the NSW Assembly, the Victorian Assembly and about 250 people were in attendance. It was the 9th bridge to be erected over the Murray between Victoria and New South Wales, with construction commencing in 1893. (Trove 2026) (www.murrayriver.com.au n.d.)

Above: the Tocumwal Bridge, 1895. Image c/o Australian Town & Country, Sat 14 Sept 1895, Trove

The bridge survives today, and is just to the south of the Edward Hillson Bridge.

The Tocumwal Regional Park is bounded by the Murray River and the Goulburn Valley Highway.

Above: the boundaries of Tocumwal Regional Park. Image c/o Google Earth

The park includes about 25 sandy riverside beaches and several bush camping sites.

Above: an aerial view of Tocumwal Regional Park. Image c/o Google Maps.

Marija and I drove a short distance down Pump Bend Track and set up very close to the river, and ensured we were in the activation zone of the 2 silos. We operated with the Yaesu FT857, 40 watts, and the 20/40/80m linked dipole.

The activation zone at the 2 silos. Image c/o SiOTA website

We had a group of young lads riding trail bikes in the park, stop to ask us what we were doing. We took the time to explain the hobby of amateur radio to them, and they seemed quite keen and wished us well.

Marija worked the following stations on 40m SSB:-

  1. VK3PF
  2. VK3KAI
  3. VK3DAC
  4. VK3ACZ
  5. VK1AD
  6. VK1NAM
  7. VK2IO/P (VKFF-0987)
  8. VK2GEZ/P (VKFF-0987)
  9. VK2VW
  10. VK2HFI
  11. VK2AKA
  12. VK2BUG

I worked the following stations on 40m SSB:-

  1. VK3PF
  2. VK3KAI
  3. VK3DAC
  4. VK3ACZ
  5. VK1AD
  6. VK1NAM
  7. VK2IO/P (VKFF-0987)
  8. VK2GEZ/P (VKFF-0987)
  9. VK2VW
  10. VK2HFI
  11. VK2AKA
  12. VK2BUG
  13. VK3ZSC
  14. VK2YAK
  15. VK4YAK
  16. VK3CLD
  17. VK5QA
  18. VK2DBF
  19. VK5HS
  20. VK2EXA
  21. VK3KLI
  22. VK3WRD
  23. VK2DA
  24. VK1DA
  25. VK3BWS
  26. VK2NP
  27. VK7EV
  28. VK3SX
  29. VK3CEO
  30. VK5WU
  31. VK2VMC
  32. VK3YY
  33. VK3OAK
  34. VK5VK
  35. VK3UH
  36. VK1AO
  37. VK2MET
  38. VK3AIW
  39. VK3EJ
  40. VK3ZPF
  41. VK3JW
  42. VK3PJF

I worked the following stations on 20m SSB:-

  1. VK2LEE
  2. VK2VW
  3. VK2HFI
  4. VK2AKA
  5. VK2BUG

References.

  1. ancestry (2016). Ancestry® | Genealogy, Family Trees & Family History Records. [online] Ancestry.com.au. Available at: https://www.ancestry.com.au/. [Accessed 26 Mar. 2026]‌
  2. Blog. (2017). George Watson and The Melbourne Cup. [online] Available at: https://blog.qm.qld.gov.au/2017/11/02/george-watson-and-the-melbourne-cup/ [Accessed 30 Mar. 2026].
  3. ‌Eastwood, J. (1976). Watson, George John (1829–1906). [online] Anu.edu.au. Available at: https://adb.anu.edu.au/biography/watson-george-john-4810 [Accessed 30 Mar. 2026].
  4. ‌Facebook.com. (2026). Explored Visions by GD. [online] Available at: https://www.facebook.com/exploredvisions [Accessed 26 Mar. 2026].‌
  5. Patenall, D. (1972). Falkiner, Franc Sadleir (1833–1909). [online] Anu.edu.au. Available at: https://adb.anu.edu.au/biography/falkiner-franc-sadleir-3495 [Accessed 30 Mar. 2026].
  6. ‌Trove. (2026). THE HISTORY OF TOCUMWAL – No. 64— Weekly Times Country Towns Series – Weekly Times (Melbourne, Vic. : 1869 – 1954) – 27 Dec 1930. [online] Available at: https://trove.nla.gov.au/newspaper/article/224917025 [Accessed 30 Mar. 2026].
  7. ‌Trove. (2026). Sydney News. – THE SCHEDULES. (From the Empire, Nov. 14.) – The Maitland Mercury and Hunter River General Advertiser (NSW : 1843 – 1893) – 17 Nov 1855. [online] Available at: https://trove.nla.gov.au/newspaper/article/708762/129360 [Accessed 30 Mar. 2026].
  8. ‌Trove. (2026). DEATH OF A PIONEER. – THE FOUNDER OF TOCUMWAL. TOCUMWAL, Monday. – The Herald (Melbourne, Vic. : 1861 – 1954) – 27 Jun 1892. [online] Available at: https://trove.nla.gov.au/newspaper/article/242861308?searchTerm=edward%20hillson [Accessed 30 Mar. 2026].
  9. ‌Trove. (2026). The Murray Bridge at Tocumwal. – Weekly Times (Melbourne, Vic. : 1869 – 1954) – 20 Apr 1895. [online] Available at: https://trove.nla.gov.au/newspaper/article/220542875?searchTerm=tocumwal%20%2B%20bridge%20%2B%20open [Accessed 31 Mar. 2026].
  10. ‌Trove. (2026). Obituary. – MR J. T. HOUGHTON. – Tocumwal Guardian and Riverina Echo (NSW : 1913 – 1918) – 12 Apr 1918. [online] Available at: https://trove.nla.gov.au/newspaper/article/128729469?searchTerm=houghtons%20wine%20saloon%20tocumwal [Accessed 31 Mar. 2026].
  11. ‌Visitnsw.com. (2015). Big Murray Cod. [online] Available at: https://www.visitnsw.com/destinations/country-nsw/the-murray/tocumwal/attractions/big-murray-cod. [Accessed 30 Mar. 2026]
  12. ‌Wikipedia Contributors (2026). Benjamin Boyd. Wikipedia.
  13. ‌Wikipedia. (2020). Indentured servitude. [online] Available at: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Indentured_servitude. [Accessed 30 Mar. 2026]
  14. ‌Wikipedia Contributors (2026). Tocumwal. Wikipedia.‌

Finley North silo VK-FNH2

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After leaving Finley silo on Tuesday, 4th November 2025, Marija and I drove a short distance to the Finley North silo VK-FNH2. The silo is located to the north of Finley, on the western side of the Newell Highway, at the junction with Rice Mill Road.

Marija and I parked on Rice Mill Road and operated from the 4WD, running the Icom IC-7000, 100 watts, and the Codan 9350 antenna with the 1.5 metre stainless steel whip.

Above: the activation zone at the Finley North silo. Image c/o SiOTA website

Marija worked the following stations on 40m SSB:-

  1. VK2IO/P (VKFF-0986)
  2. VK3PF
  3. VK2YAK
  4. VK4YAK
  5. VK2EXA

I worked the following stations on 40m SSB:-

  1. VK2IO/P (VKFF-0986)
  2. VK3PF
  3. VK2YAK
  4. VK4YAK
  5. VK2EXA
  6. VK1AO
  7. VK2MET
  8. VK3APJ
  9. VK3DAC
  10. VK3HJW
  11. VK3SQ
  12. VK3JT
  13. VK2BD
  14. VK2DA
  15. VK1DA
  16. VK2YL
  17. VK2VH
  18. VK4AAC
  19. VK3TDK
  20. VK3NYC
  21. VK2NP
  22. VK3EJ
  23. VK3JOC

References.

  1. Silosontheair.com. (2026). Silos on the Air. [online] Available at: https://www.silosontheair.com/silos/ [Accessed 26 Mar. 2026].‌

Finley silo VK-FNY2

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Our start for Tuesday, 4th day of November 2025, was breakfast at the BP Truckstop at Jeridlerie. We enjoyed a very nice breakfast. We also purchased a toy truck for our grandson, Flynn.

A sign that good food is served at truck stops is the number of trucks in the car park.

Marija and I finished breakfast and then drove south towards the town of Finley.

Above: Map showing the location of Finley, N.S.W. Map c/o Google Maps

The Finley area is the traditional land of the Yorta Yorta Aboriginal people. Prior to European settlement, the area was called Carawatha, meaning ‘place of pines.’ (Wikipedia 2021)

During the 1840s the district was settled by European pastoralists. Their main crop was wheat. The first permanent residence in the town of Finley was built in 1878. The Post Office opened on the 1st day of January 1881 and was called Murray Hut. It was changed to Finley in 1893. (Wikipedia 2021)

The town was surveyed in 1870 and is named in honour of the surveyor, Francis George Finley. He mapped about 1.2 million hectares of the Riverina district of New South Wales. (Grokipedia 2025)

In 1912, the Finley Agricultural & Pastoral Association was established. The first agricultural show as held on the 17th day of September 1913. (Wikipedia 2021)

Above: part of an article from the Tocumwal Guardian, Fri 19 Sept 1913. Image c/o Trove

During the 1930s, the Finley district was struck by severe drought and farmers also experienced the Great Depression. These 2 factors caused many farmers to abandon their holdings. In 1935, construction commenced of the Mulwala Canal which brought water to the district’s rich farmland in 1939. (Wikipedia 2021)

After having a quick drive around the town, Marija and I visited the Finley Railway Precinct. Unfortunately, the museum was closed. In Railway Park, you can view the old stock siding that was used to ship live sheep to market. They have been demolished now, but extensive stock pens once stood behind the stock siding embankment.

Opposite the railway siding in Endeavour Street is Boomerang Motors. On the side of the building is a magnificent mural, the work of Damien Mitchell. It is one of several murals in Finley. We even spoke with the son of the gentleman who features on the mural.

Other murals include a ram on the side of the Tuppal Hotel and Clydesdale horses at the Finley Bowling Club.

On the side of Finley School of Arts Memorial Hall is another magnificent mural, the work of Heesco and Damien Mitchell. It was painted in 2024 to celebrate the Hall’s 120th Anniversary. (Facebook 2026)

Another work of Heesco and Mitchell can be found at the Finley Bowling Club. It was completed in 2020. (Facebook 2026)

Marija and I then visited the canoe tree in Finley Memorial Park on the Newell Highway.

We had hoped to visit the Finley Historical Museum and Log Cabin, but we were a little too early, and it was closed. We were able to view the mural on the side of the museum, which is the work of Damien Mitchell, which was completed in 2022.

Alongside the museum is the Mary Lawson Wayside Rest Area, which includes a lake. I took the photograph below of a Nankeen Night Heron, a primarily nocturnal bird.

We then drove back a short distance to the Finley murals on Newell Highway.

The silos were opened in 1926. (Trove 2026)

Above: article from The Albury Banner & Wodonga Express, Fri 3 Dec 1926. Image c/o Trove

Marija and I parked opposite the murals and operated from the 4WD, running the Icom IC-7000, 100 watts, and the Codan 9350 antenna with the 1.5 metre stainless steel ship.

Above: the activation zone at Finley silo. Image c/o SiOTA website

Marija worked the following stations on 40m SSB:-

  1. VK3PF
  2. VK2VH
  3. VK4AAC
  4. VK2EXA
  5. VK3UP/M

I worked the following stations on 40m SSB:-

  1. VK3PF
  2. VK2VH
  3. VK4AAC
  4. VK2EXA
  5. VK3UP/M
  6. VK3CLD
  7. VK3HBG
  8. VK1AO
  9. VK2MET
  10. VK3DAC

References.

  1. Grokipedia. (2025). Grokipedia. [online] Available at: https://grokipedia.com. [Acessed 26 Mar. 2026]
  2. ‌Trove. (2026). The Albury Banner and Wodonga Express (NSW : 1860 – 1927; 1929 – 1931; 1933 – 1938) – 3 Dec 1926 – p7. [online] Available at: https://trove.nla.gov.au/newspaper/page/10831885?searchTerm=finley%20silo [Accessed 25 Mar. 2026].
  3. ‌Wikipedia. (2021). Finley. [online] Available at: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Finley.‌ [Accessed 26 Mar. 2026]

Jerilderie Nature Reserve VKFF-1942

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Our final activation for Monday, 3rd November 2025, was the Jerilderie Nature Reserve VKFF-1942.

Above: Map showing the location of Jerilderie Nature Reserve. Map c/o Google Maps

On our way back into Jerilderie, it was slow going. After running over the kangaroo when leaving South West Woodland, Marija and I travelled even slower. There were dozens of kangaroos on the road and dozens of emus in the paddocks either side of the road.

The Jerilderie Nature Reserve is on the southwestern side of the town of Jerilderie. It is bounded by Watson Lane to the west and south, Rankin Road to the north, and Sleeman Street to the east.

Above: the boundaries of the Jerilderie Nature Reserve. Image c/o Google Earth

The Jerilderie Nature Reserve is about 37 hectares in size and was established in May 2002. (NSW National Parks 2026)

Above: an aerial view of the Jerilderie Nature Reserve. Image c/o Google Maps

This reserve does not look like much. It appears to be just a paddock. However, the reserve protects a small sample of native grassland, including a small population of the threatened plant Swainsona plagiotropis and several other grassland species that are regionally rare. (NSW National Parks 2026)

We entered the park through the unlocked gate and operated with the Yaesu FT857, 40 watts, and the 20/40/80m linked dipole.

Marija worked the following stations on 40m SSB:-

  1. VK1CHW
  2. VK2CHW
  3. VK3XEM
  4. VK2HAK
  5. VK3GJG
  6. VK3SQ
  7. VK3JT
  8. VK2BD
  9. VK5HS/M
  10. VK2IO/P (VKFF-0992)
  11. VK2GEZ/P (VKFF-0992)
  12. VK2YAK
  13. VK4YAK
  14. VK2DA

I worked the following stations on 40m SSB:-

  1. VK1CHW
  2. VK2CHW
  3. VK3XEM
  4. VK2HAK
  5. VK3GJG
  6. VK2DA
  7. VK1DA
  8. VK3SQ
  9. VK3JT
  10. VK2BD
  11. VK5HS/M
  12. VK3PF
  13. VK3KAI
  14. VK2IO/P (VKFF-0992)
  15. VK2GEZ/P (VKFF-0992)
  16. VK5PE/M
  17. VK3WSG
  18. VK2ETI/M
  19. VK2AIT
  20. VK2AIQ
  21. VK2AIX
  22. VK2AIZ
  23. VK1AD
  24. VK1NAM
  25. VK2EXA
  26. VK5LA
  27. VK5KAW
  28. VK5DW
  29. VK3ALF
  30. VK2MG
  31. VK3FTOM
  32. VK2NP
  33. VK2YAK
  34. VK4YAK
  35. VK1JIM
  36. VK2TER
  37. VK2BM
  38. VK2QRP
  39. VK7AAE
  40. VK7DWS
  41. VK7PJM
  42. VK3NL
  43. VK3SMW
  44. VK5FANA
  45. VK5BRU/P

References.

  1. NSW National Parks. (2026). Jerilderie Nature Reserve. [online] Available at: https://www.nationalparks.nsw.gov.au/visit-a-park/parks/jerilderie-nature-reserve [Accessed 25 Mar. 2026].‌

South West Woodland Nature Reserve VKFF-2724

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Our next activation for Monday, 3rd November 2025, was South West Woodland Nature Reserve VKFF-2724. This particular section of the reserve is located about 53 km north of Jerilderie.

Above: Map showing the location of South West Woodland Nature Reserve – Kulki. Map c/o Google Maps

The Kulki section of South West Woodland Nature Reserve is located at the junction of Cadell Road and Stud Park N Road, Gala Vale.

Above: The boundaries of South West Woodland Nature Reserve – Kulki. Image c/o Google Earth

Just around the corner from the reserve is Gala Vale homestead. Charles W.L. Bull purchased the property in 1896. He constructed a pise house on the site of the current homestead. Pise houses are built using rammed earth. During the early 1920s, he removed the front section of the pise house, and he commenced building the current homestead. During the 1930s further sections of the homestead were completed, including the kitchen, dining room and sunroom. The last part of the pise house was demolished during the 1960s. This section of the pise house contained the old Gala Vale telephone exchange. (Murrumbidgee Council 2021)

An annual Gymkhana was held at Gala Vale.

Above: article from te Narandera Argus, Tue 24 Oct 1939. Image co Trove

South West Woodland Nature Reserve consists of 27 separate sections which range from Peak Hill in the north to Berrigan in the south, a distance of about 400 km. The total area of the reserve is about 13,840 hectares (34,200-acres). (Wikipedia 2026)

Above: An aerial view of South West Woodland NR – Kulki. Image c/o Google Maps

Prior to the declaration of the reserve on the 1st day of January 2011, the various sections were State Forests, which retained their forest names. They were gazetted State Forests between 1913 and 1977 and were managed by the Forestry Commission of NSW for logging and timber harvesting activities. (Wikipedia 2026)

The Kulki section was declared a State Forest on the 15th day of June 1917. It covers an area of about 172 hectares (430 acres). (Wikipedia 2026)

Upon our arrival near the park, there were dozens of kangaroos. It was very slow going along the road.

Marija and I ran the Yaesu FT857, 40 watts, and the 20/40/80m linked dipole supported on the 7-metre heavy duty squid pole.

Unfortunately we experienced strength 7 lightning crahses on the 40m band and it started to rain towards the end of our activation, which forced us to pack up.

Marija worked the following stations on 40m SSB:-

  1. VK2OKR/P (VKFF-1410)
  2. VK2BXB/P (VKFF-1410)
  3. VK2AUS/P (VKFF-1410)
  4. VK2AUR/P (VKFF-1410)
  5. VK2AUT/P (VKFF-1410)
  6. VK2HAK
  7. VK2NP
  8. VK1AO
  9. VK2MET
  10. VK3SQ
  11. VK3JT
  12. VK3BD
  13. VK2IO/P (VKFF-0992)
  14. VK2GEZ/P (VKFF-0992)

I worked the following stations on 40m SSB:-

  1. VK2OKR/P (VKFF-1410)
  2. VK2BXB/P (VKFF-1410)
  3. VK2AUS/P (VKFF-1410)
  4. VK2AUR/P (VKFF-1410)
  5. VK2AUT/P (VKFF-1410)
  6. VK2HAK
  7. VK2NP
  8. VK1AO
  9. VK2MET
  10. VK3SQ
  11. VK3JT
  12. VK3BD
  13. VK3MIJ
  14. VK3KRL
  15. VK2HBG/M
  16. VK3QA
  17. VK6ASK/M
  18. VK3CLD
  19. VK5QA
  20. VK2DBF
  21. VK3BAP
  22. VK3JSD
  23. VK2GSV
  24. VK5FANA
  25. VK3TDX
  26. VK2DA
  27. VK1DA
  28. VK7PJM
  29. VK2KEV/P
  30. VK5AYL
  31. VK2IO/P (VKFF-0992)
  32. VK2GEZ/P (VKFF-0992)
  33. VK1DI
  34. VK3UH
  35. VK5LA
  36. VK5KAW
  37. VK2AIH
  38. VK4HMI
  39. VK1FM
  40. F5PYI
  41. VK7MAT
  42. VK3HJW
  43. VK2XGB/M
  44. VK1AD
  45. VK1NAM
  46. VK5DMO

At the conclusion of the activation, we made our way back towards Jerilderie, where we planned to get some dinner. It was drizzling with rain at the time, and out in front of ran two kangaroos. Fortunately, I was not travelling too fast at the time, and I managed to brake to avoid hitting them. However, one slipped on the wet road and slid underneath the 4WD, killing it instantly. I stopped to check on its welfare, but sadly, it was deceased and had no joey. The next thing was to check for damage underneath the 4WD. Luckily, there was none.

References.

  1. Murrumbidgee Council, 2021, Murrumbidgee Council Heritage Review Inventory Report
  2. Wikipedia Contributors (2026). South West Woodland Nature Reserve. Wikipedia.‌

Coleambally silo VK-CLY2 and Coleambally 2 silo VK-CLB2

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Our next stop on Monday, 3rd November 2025, was Coleambally in the Riverina region of New South Wales. Coleambally is about 658 km west of Sydney and about 31 km south of Darlington Point.

Above: Map showing the location of Coleambally, NSW. Map c/o Google Maps

Coleambally is a new town, having been gazetted in June 1968. The Post Office opened 2 years later in April 1970. The town was designed to act as the centre for the surrounding Coleambally Irrigation Area. Coleambally is an Aboriginal word believed to mean ‘swift in flight.’ The spine-tailed swift can be found in the area and is one of the most powerful fliers known. The town features street names that are named after local birds. (Wikipedia 2025)

As you enter the town, you cannot miss the Bucyrus Class Dragline. It was one of four machines used to excavate the main irrigation channels in the district.

Another interesting attraction is the Coleambally water tower on Kingfisher Avenue. The base of the tower features a mosaic that depicts the history of the district. The tower is uniquely shaped and stands 24 metres tall. It had a capacity of over one million litres and is filled from two deep bores. (Service 2023)

Now this can be a little confusing as Coleambally has so many silos that are located in the industrial area.

Coleambally silo VK-CLY2 is located on Bencubbin Avenue. This site is run by AgConnex and takes speciality grains including maize in the Riverina region. (AgConnex 2025)

And Coleambally 2 silo VK-CLB2 is located on Jimmy Cull Road. Marija and I only saw one silo structure there. This is the Coprice facility which, according to the internet, was owned by SunRice and is now closed as of September 2025.

But, then there are other silos, including the YPG Coleambally site on Calrose Avenue and the Coleambally Graincorp silos further along Bencubbin Road. I am not sure why these are not included in the SiOTA program.

Marija and I parked on Calrose Avenue, in the activation zone of both silos. We operated from the 4WD, running the Icom IC-7000, 100 watts, and the Codan 9350 antenna with the 1.5 metre stainless steel whip.

Above: the activation zone of the 2 silos at Coleambally, NSW. Image c/o SiOTA website

Marija worked the following stations on 40m SSB:-

  1. VK3KLI/p (VKFF-5032)
  2. VK2IO/P (VKFF-0985)
  3. VK5HS
  4. VK2YAK/P (VKFF-0196)
  5. VK4YAK/P (VKFF-0196)
  6. VK2ZR
  7. VK2AZR

I worked the following stations on 40m SSB:-

  1. VK3KLI/p (VKFF-5032)
  2. VK2IO/P (VKFF-0985)
  3. VK5HS
  4. VK2YAK/P (VKFF-0196)
  5. VK4YAK/P (VKFF-0196)
  6. VK2ZR
  7. VK2AZR
  8. VK2HAK
  9. VK1AO
  10. VK2MET
  11. VK2MOE
  12. VK1MO
  13. VK5AYL

References.

  1. AgConnex. (2025). Sites – AgConnex. [online] Available at: https://agconnex.com.au/sites/ [Accessed 24 Mar. 2026].‌
  2. Service, C. (2023). Coleambally Water Tower. [online] NSW Government. Available at: https://www.nsw.gov.au/visiting-and-exploring-nsw/locations-and-attractions/coleambally-water-tower [Accessed 24 Mar. 2026].
  3. ‌Wikipedia Contributors (2025). Coleambally. Wikipedia.‌