TELEPHONE, Public

Pine wood backboard painted light green with dark green mottled finish, probably to discourage graffiti. Back of board has red label attached to top left hand corner reading 'CS13'. On front left of board is mounted a black metal coin box with 'A' and 'B' push button control. Coins were dropped into the slots on the top of the box, the telephone number required was dialled and when the call was answered button 'A' was pressed to make contact. If call was not answered button 'B' was pushed and the money deposited was returned via the little coin shute underneath. Off centre to right is the telephone hand set of black bakelite plastic wall mounted with a circular dial at front. Numbers were obtained by inserting a digit in the appropriate hole and pulling the dial around to the right until it stopped then releasing it to automatically move back to its original position. This process was repeated until all numbers had been dialled. On extreme right of board is the information panel covered with glass. Information includes instructions on how to make a local call, a trunk call (long distance), and how to send a telegram. It lists enquiry numbers, emergency numbers, and an offer of $100 reward for reporting vandals. These units were mounted in public telephone boxes operated by the P.M.G. in Australia. P.M.G. was the Postmaster Generals Department which used to be responsible for the telephone and postal service until it was split into Telecom and Australia Post, date uncertain.

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History Collection

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