MORE than 3000 visitors packed into the historic Pattern Shop at the Midland Railway Workshops over the weekend for the Hand Tool Preservation Society of WA’s (HTPSWA) Lost Trades Tool Show.

The free two-day event featured over 15 live demonstrations of traditional skills alongside 34 specialised heritage displays.

Hand Tool Preservation Society of WA President, Kim Mitchell said he was surprised but grateful at the strong public turnout.

“It was non-stop for two days,” he said.

“The displays really showcased trades that have disappeared or are on the fringe of being lost.”

The showcase was backed by affiliate community groups, including the Machinery Preservation Club and the Midland Country Women’s Association.

Saturday evening saw Midland MLA Steve Catania present a key to the HTPSWA acknowledging the lease of the Pattern Shop from Development WA.

The event was also attended by City of Swan Mayor Tanya Richardson who welcomed the club to Midland, and expressed her support for more public interaction in the Old Railway Precinct.

Midland Ward councillor Rashelle Predovnik said it was wonderful to see society volunteers welcoming visitors, sharing knowledge, and bringing local history back to life.

“People freely shared their stories and memories, and it created a wonderful sense of connection and community,” she said.

“Together with groups like the Machinery Preservation Club and the Midland and Districts Historical Society, the railway workshops are becoming a wonderful hub for community groups.

The Old Railway Precinct will host its next event on September 13 from 9am to 1pm for the Machine Preservation Club’s Annual Open Day, where the Pattern Shop will again open to the public.