Society Excursion to Noel Sharkey’s Horse-Drawn Vehicles Collection

Hidden in a huge steel shed in the sleepy hamlet of Gheringhap lies a treasure trove of horse-drawn vehicles that would challenge the most prestigious transport museum in Australia. Each vehicle has a unique story, shaped by its work on Geelong and District roads. Entering the building felt like stepping into a time warp, when the horse was the main means of transportation.

Carts from local vendors, a stagecoach (complete with baggage) horse-drawn hearses (painted both black and white), buggies, drays, drags, sulkies, jinkers, wagonettes, phaetons, and many more of their ilk looked ready for the road, just waiting for the horse to be attached.

Twenty-seven of our members, with some friends and relatives, were awestruck as they entered Noel’s clinically clean shed. It was a jaw-dropping sight. Meticulously preserved horse-drawn vehicles were arranged in rows with no space between each vehicle.

Noel gave the group a guided tour. His humorous, knowledgeable descriptions of the vehicles showed his passion and love for each one. Noel personally restored many of the vehicles. His encyclopaedic knowledge of various components and their functions was derived from hours of dedicated craftsmanship.

Our members could take personal photographs and ask questions as they moved through each row. Noel always had an answer or a story to share.

A few rare vintage cars, also in excellent condition, were garaged at the rear of the shed.

After one hour of visual indulgence and inquisitive questions, some of our number departed, but others stayed on for lunch.

Sadly, our group will be the last to visit the collection. Noel is planning to move house, and his collection is up for sale.

I am very grateful to David Brunton, who suggested the visit, and to Jennifer Bantow for organising it. We presented Noel with a thank-you card and a small gift to show our Society’s gratitude.