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Mildura Co-operative Dried Fruit Co. Siding

Siding opened: 10-8-1927

Distance from Melbourne: 350 miles 37 chains

The Mildura Co-operative siding was one of four sidings between the 350 and 351 mile posts on the up side of Mildura. Originally a loop siding secured by Staff Locks, the up end connection to the main line was abolished on 10-4-1967.

Mildura Co-operative Fruit Co. siding track plan. 13-7-1956. Source: Victorian Railways

Mildura Co-operative Fruit Co. siding at the time of relaying the main line in November 1972. The siding was still being used on infrequent occasions. Photo: Bruce McLean

Mildura Co-operative Fruit Co. siding points looking in the Up direction. The Caltex Oil Co. siding is to the right of the main line. January 1981. Photo: Bruce McLean

The Mildura Co-operative Fruit Company siding was built as a loop siding. The up end connection to the main line was removed in 1967. This mid-siding view shows the up end. The baulk at the end of the siding can just be seen near the main line. January 1981. Photo: Bruce McLean

During its last years of use an occasional wagon would be placed for loading, however its last use on 25-8-1987 was for holding container wagons required at the Sarnia Packing Co. siding (a nearby competitor).

Container wagons standing at the Mildura Co-operative Fruit Co. siding. The wagons were held there for placement at the Sarnia Packing Co. siding (red brick building in background). 25-9-1987. Photo: Bruce McLean

The rails beyond the safety catch points in the Mildura Co-operative siding were removed in June 1992. Photo: Bruce McLean

The siding was officially closed by 2-3-1992 and the siding was lifted in June 1992. The points removed from the main line on 10-4-1993.

The main line straight-railed after removal of the Mildura Co-operative siding points on 10-4-1993. 8-5-1993. Photo: Bruce McLean

The Mildura Co-operative Fruit Company also had sidings to serve packing sheds at Redcliffs (formerly Redcliffs Co-operative Packing Co. Ltd.), Irymple and Merbein.