Family stories have a way of linking us to the deeper rhythms of a place, offering glimpses into the lives of people who shaped it long before our time. One such story comes from Pam McGann, whose family ancestors were part of the Riverina’s early pastoral years.
The Holding Pen
A place to round up thoughts, stories, and snapshots from Toganmain.
David Lewis has shared a couple of stories with us — one about the dogs that worked the shed with him, and another about the quiet presence of veterans who passed through Toganmain. But he’s since been back in touch with a few more memories, and I reckon they’re worth including.
Robert and Kaye Emmett, from Horsham, Victoria, recalled a weekend spent working at Toganmain in August.
Occasionally, a piece of history arrives that captures the voice of the past more intimately than any official record. One such treasure is a letter written in 1899 at Toganmain Station by Jim O’Connor, a shearer and farmer whose words reveal a deeply personal view of life in the Riverina at the close of the 19th century.
This story came in from Sharon Gibbins, and it reaches right back to the early days of Toganmain — further than most.
This story came through Tracy McLaughlin, who’s been quietly helping us gather names, photos, and memories in all sorts of ways.
Here's a surprise! A song all about Toganmain. Take a listen and follow along with lyrics below.
Darren O'Loughlin recalled one of the last shearings held at Toganmain — back in August 2016.
Ian Rowles reached out with a family story tied to Toganmain. His father-in-law, Gordon Charles “Charlie” Croker, was born in 1907 in Crookwell, NSW, and came from a family of sheep farmers.
Every time someone adds their name to the list, it’s a quiet reminder of just how far Toganmain reaches.
I was going through the latest newsletter sign-ups the other day, and what struck me wasn’t just the number — it was the stories.
Kay Turner contributed an invaluable visual archive to the Toganmain restoration.
Tom Lockhart, now 88 and living in Tasmania, once worked as a shearer at the Toganmain Woolshed in the late 1950s.
Mike Smith, a retired livestock agent and wool showfloor manager from South Australia, had spent over 50 years in the wool industry.
In 1991, Michael Grambeau worked at Toganmain as a rouseabout.
Ted Speed and Annie Kessell, from Kangaroo Island, made a return visit to Toganmain while on holiday.
The Toganmain Woolshed Precinct Incorporated wishes to thank the following businesses for their generous support.
