Border mail cars

The Border Mail cars! Those iconic vehicles were a staple of the Australian outback, particularly in the 1950s and 1960s. Here's a brief overview:

What were Border Mail cars?

The Border Mail cars were a series of mail delivery vehicles used by the Australian Post Office (now Australia Post) to transport mail and packages across the country. They were designed to operate in remote areas, often with limited road infrastructure, and were equipped to handle the harsh conditions of the Australian outback.

Design and features

The Border Mail cars were built on a rugged, four-wheel-drive chassis, with a high ground clearance to navigate rough terrain. They were typically equipped with a large cargo area, a winch for recovering from difficult situations, and a canopy to protect the mail from the elements. The vehicles were also fitted with specialized equipment, such as mail sorting compartments and secure storage for valuable packages.

Operations

The Border Mail cars were used to deliver mail to remote areas, often in conjunction with other postal services, such as the Royal Flying Doctor Service. The vehicles would travel along designated routes, stopping at post offices, homesteads, and other locations to deliver mail and collect packages. The drivers, known as "Border Mail drivers," were skilled in navigating the challenging terrain and were responsible for ensuring the safe and efficient delivery of mail.

Legacy

The Border Mail cars played a vital role in connecting remote communities with the rest of Australia, and their legacy continues to be celebrated today. Many of the original vehicles have been preserved and are now on display in museums and private collections, serving as a reminder of the important work done by the Australian Post Office in the past.

Interesting fact

Did you know that the Border Mail cars were also used for other purposes, such as transporting medical supplies, food, and even emergency responders? They were truly a lifeline for many remote communities, and their impact on Australian history is still felt today.