The Broadmeadows Historical Society is gearing up to celebrate one of Hume’s most defining chapters, with a major exhibition and car show honouring the Ford Broadmeadows Assembly Plant.
Running from Saturday, October 4 to Monday, December 15 at the Broadmeadows Museum, Gears of Time: Ford Broadmeadows through the Years will showcase the plant’s history, achievements and iconic vehicles.
The Ford Broadmeadows assembly plant first opened in 1959 and quickly became one of Australia’s largest automotive manufacturing sites. At its peak in 2011, the plant employed more than 2000 workers.
The plant became central to the area’s economy and identity, as well as a focal point for labour activism, including the historic 1973 strike.
Curator Mark Moore said the exhibition was inspired by the discovery that the society’s collection held surprisingly little information on the plant, despite its significance.
“We want to honour the contributions of Ford and its workforce, and ensure their stories are preserved for future generations,” he said.
“The plant played a pivotal role in shaping the social and economic fabric of Broadmeadows and its surrounding suburbs.”
Visitors can expect to find original uniforms, awards, photographs by Wolfgang Sievers and Andrew Chapman, and powerful personal stories like how a Ford sponsored scholarship helped a local student work his way up to becoming a doctor.
An accompanying car show will showcase classic Fords built at Broadmeadows, bringing history to life for younger audiences.
Mr Moore spoke to what he hopes visitors can take away from the exciting experience.
“This isn’t just about cars or industry; it’s about the lives that were shaped here, the families supported, and the community that grew around the plant.”
Details are available at curator@broadmeadowsmuseum.org.au.
