Still from End of an Era film, 1969, 29226/13 (part of 29226 Bill Rahmann films). In copyright. John Oxley Library, State Library of Queensland
On the evening of 13 April 1969, tram no.554 was the last official car to run on Brisbane’s tram system. Trams had been in operation in Brisbane for 85 years, with horse-drawn cars later replaced by electric ones.
Still from End of an Era film, 1969, 29226/13 (part of 29226 Bill Rahmann films). In copyright. John Oxley Library, State Library of Queensland
Among a series of short films made by Bill and Bev Rahmann is a five minute 1969 film entitled End of an Era, which reflects on the demise of trams in Brisbane. The film contains footage of trams running through various Brisbane locations, including the old Victoria Bridge. End of an Era concludes with a trip on the Oriel Park route.
Still from End of an Era film, 1969, 29226/13 (part of 29226 Bill Rahmann films). In copyright. John Oxley Library, State Library of Queensland
The Rahmanns also highlight the efforts of the Brisbane Tramway Museum Society, formed in July 1968, in preserving this important part of our transport history.
Still from End of an Era film, 1969, 29226/13 (part of 29226 Bill Rahmann films). In copyright. John Oxley Library, State Library of Queensland
Brisbane Tramway Museum Society event at Chermside. Still from End of an Era film, 1969, 29226/13 (part of 29226 Bill Rahmann films). In copyright. John Oxley Library, State Library of Queensland
You can watch End of an Era via our One Search catalogue, along with other films from 29226 Bill Rahmann Films.
Still from End of an Era film, 1969, 29226/13 (part of 29226 Bill Rahmann films). In copyright. John Oxley Library, State Library of Queensland
Further reading