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As Magnificent these fully restored engines are, c
The REASON they are here is MORE IMPORTANT.
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1855 Just 280 Km's South in Geelong, James Harrison was experimenting with mechanical cooling process, in a cave at Rocky Point Geelong. His work, and eventual success, using compressed "Ether" vapour, created the world’s first commercial ice-making machine, providing the ability to produce ice on demand. His revolutionary process made possible frozen meat, could now be safely stored & shipped to markets worldwide.
This groundbreaking technology, revolutionized consumer commerce worldwide, earning him the title FATHER OF REFRIGERATION

James Harrison pioneering inventions paved the way for Murtoa's ability to safely freeze meat
Aware of the need for local abattoir, armed with Harrison’s breakthrough, saw his working success as proof of concept. A local group of farmers with entrepreneurial spirit and vision came together, W. B. Cumming - T. J. Noske - Wilson Family - Local Shire grazers, proposed initiating a feasibility study.
If a Freezing works could be viable, or even possible. Forwarded the idea, if possible, it should be financed by locals, and then moved to next stage of costing, and how to raise they capital.
Cost was estimated to be £60,000.00 and that it would be raised by £12,000 shares at £5.00 pound per share.

1908 17th September, the Wimmera Inland Freezing Company (WIFW) was officially registered under the Companies Act, marking a significant milestone in the project’s development and operational framework.
Construction, buildings, getting and installing HERBERT STUART's Akroyd Engines out from England, utilized two massive "LINDE" Ammonia Compressors (evolution of Harrison’s early ether-based compression systems) to keep and freeze the massive quantities of meat frozen.

October 21, 1911,       JUST 3.1 short Years the First Shipment of frozen carcasses left by rail

While James Harrison invented the technology in Geelong,
Murtoa became one of the primary industrial powerhouses that turned his refrigeration dream into a massive economic reality for rural Victoria.
Between 1912 and 1920, the Murtoa plant become a crucial hub in Victoria's export chain, processing over 1 million mutton and lamb carcasses a year, available for shipping worldwide.
Murtoa Wimmera Inland Freezer Works built a distinguished history in Australian agricultural history, particularly during a period marked by significant economic challenges.

If you visit the Murtoa Inland Freezer Works Museum Today , you will see Harrison's industrial legacy is alive:
The freezing works' machinery shed houses the 4 massive, 20-tonne Hornsby working engines
It is believed these massive engines are the only ones in the world to survive, still in their original position and beds.
Dedicated volunteers have restored these engines to original working condition, and still run them through the year, and at our Massive Annual October Rally, or by appointment.
Engines No 1 - 2 originally used to turn two massive LINDE Ammonia compressors. that froze the meat. (No 1 LINDE Compressor is still sitting on its original Bed)
Engines No 3 - 4 were used to turn the power generators