The Old Bus Depot Markets will pay homage to its place in Canberra’ transportation history on Sunday 10 March 2013 with Back to the Depot, a historical display from the Retired ACT Transport Employees Club which will include a homecoming by Matilda, a 1949 ACTION Bus.

Part of the celebrations for the Centenary of Canberra, Back to the Depot will explore the early days of Canberra’s transportation system, which started in 1926 with just four bus routes.  The bus depot on Wentworth Avenue in Kingston was built in the late 1920s, with various structures added to and removed from the building over the years.

“With such an important role in Canberra’s early history, we’re proud to be part of the story of this building. This display is a great way to take a trip down memory lane, and we’re excited to welcome Matilda and the other displays and artifacts to the Depot,” said Old Bus Depot Markets Director, Diane Hinds.

Matilda is a 1949 AEC Regal Omnibus owned by ACTION that was serviced in the Depot. She’ll be on display alongside a historic 1942 Commonwealth Car that has been fully restored by retired mechanic Albert News.  This car is now fully operational and regularly appears in car shows and exhibitions.

PHOTO/FILMING OPPORTUNITY

  • WHAT: Back to the Depot historical display
  • WHO: Retired ACT Transport Employees will be in attendance, along with Matilda, the 1949 ACTION bus serviced at the Depot in the 1950s
  • WHERE: Old Bus Depot Markets, Wentworth Avenue, Kingston ACT
  • WHEN: 10am – 4pm, Sunday 10 March 2013
  • WHY: A retrospective look at Canberra’s transportation history for the Centenary of Canberra celebrations.

This page was last updated on 6 August 2022

Categories: Media Releases