The Great White Train steamed into Taree in the early hours of Thursday 2 September 1926.1
With its striking white carriages, this train was an initiative of the “Australian-Made” Preference League intended to promote Australian made products. It made two tours of regional NSW over a period from November 1925 to November 1926.2
The train comprised some fifteen exhibition carriages showcasing all manner of goods including food and drink, clothing, household products and machinery.3 Free gifts, samples and souvenirs were available.4
Victoria Street was decorated for the occasion with strings of flags and most shops entered into the spirit with special window displays of Australian made goods. Prizes were awarded in various categories, the overall winner being Cropleys Limited for its display of footwear.5
In the morning, an open air reception was provided by the Taree townspeople to welcome the train and its promoters, followed, in the afternoon, by the opening of the exhibition to the public. It is recorded that 4996 people viewed the exhibition on that one day in Taree.6
The day concluded with a dinner aboard the train, attended by local dignitaries, before its departure from Taree at about 10.30pm.7
Author: Penny Teerman
References:
1 Manning River Times, Saturday 4 September 1926 Page10.
2 Design History Australia by Tony Fry, Hale & Iremonger 1988.
3 Ibid.
4 Manning River Times, Saturday 4 September 1926 Page 10.
5 Ibid.
6 Ibid.
7 Northern Champion Saturday 4 September 1926 Page 4.
