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Locomotive Balancing Tables

Other Name

V.R.Weighing Machine No 255(VR 1918)

Location

Near Old West Block, Newport Railway Workshops, Champion Road,, NEWPORT VIC 3015 - Property No B7066

File Number

B7066

Level

State

Statement of Significance

The locomotive balancing tables at Newport are historically and scientifically significant at the state level as the only surviving mechanical locomotive balancing tables in Victoria.
The Newport locomotive balancing tables are scientifically significant because when purchased by the Victorian Railways in 1912, the type No.508 Pooley locomotive balancing tables were state of the art technology which featured automatic dial indicators for quick and efficient weighing. The Newport balancing tables have been in almost continuous use since they were installed, and remain unmodified and in use today. They demonstrate the engineering and manufacturing skills of the famous British scale and weighbridge manufacturer Henry Pooley & Son Ltd.
The Newport balancing tables are historically significant for the role they played in the construction and maintenance of steam locomotives by the Victorian Railways. Following a decision in 1904 by the Victorian Railways to construct their own locomotives and rolling stock, the Newport Workshops were almost doubled in size from 1905 to 1915. The locomotive balancing tables were purchased in 1912 to expedite the mass production of steam locomotives. Altogether over the years the Newport shops manufactured 536 steam locomotives, and most if not all would have been 'Balanced' on the Newport balancing tables.
The significance of the Newport balancing tables is enhanced by their continuing association with the operation and maintenance of steam locomotives and historic rolling stock at the Newport Workshops. Today the West Block is occupied by several railway preservation groups who use the balancing tables to help maintain their steam locomotives.
Classified: 03/07/2000

Group

Transport - Rail