Only Melbourne on Twitter Counter.com

Return of Tram Conductors


"Fares Please" might be heard again with much talk about the possibility of conductors returning to work on Melbourne's trams.

Tram conductors were custodians of Melbourne's soul, replaced by ticket machines which have proved both unpopular and inefficient says Kevin Murray writing 'I prefer a tram conductor'.

Although many believe it is only gunzels* who are dreaming the dream, a poll on Channel 7 news in April 2008 had 79% saying YES to bring back tram conductors.

This is not the first time it has been touted that Connies might return. Tram conductors to return by ABC Reporter: Nick Johnston on Tuesday, 10 October , 2000 went as follows: Finally a familiar sight is set to return to Melbourne's trams. The Bracks' Government announced today it would reinstate tram conductors axed by the former premier, Jeff Kennett.

The Bracks' Government says the 100 roving conductors will provide the friendly face of tram travel. As Nick Johnson reports, it's hoped they'll also provide extra security and crack down on fare evasion.

TERMINOLOGY


* GUNZEL | GUNZLE | GUNSEL
Gunzel ( noun, slang Australia especially Victoria): A person who pursues useless and pointless railway/light rail enthusiast activities. Verb to gunzel, to go gunzelling.

UK equivalents: train spotter, gricer, anorak.
USA equivalents: foamer, foamite.

The word gunzel originated from the Sydney Tramway Museum in the 1960s as a term for foolish or reckless railfans who shot at things with cameras. Usage was originally confined to south eastern states, it has since spread to the whole of Australia and parts of New Zealand.

CONNIE
Tram conductor. Clippies not used in Melbourne.

MARMALADE
Slang for tram driver / conductor.

Bus/Tram Conductor
Bus or tram conductors work in the passenger section of a bus or tram. They collect fares, issue tickets and answer queries about routes, fares and timetables. They are also responsible for the care and safety of their passengers.




Web Links

Melbourne Link Return of Tram Conductors Link opens in new browser window

Melbourne Link Melbourne Light Rail - Trams Guide

Melbourne Link I prefer a tram conductor by Kevin Murray

Melbourne Link Preston Tram Workshop - Atlantis Found in Preston

Melbourne Link G U N Z E L or G U N Z L E [spelling] railpage.com.au

Melbourne Link Re: gunzel? [meaning] railpage.com.au

Melbourne Link gunzel - wiktionary.org

Melbourne Link Darren's Gunzel Gallery

Melbourne Link Random Gunzel Insanity

Melbourne Link A Streetcar Called Perspire By Keith Butler

Melbourne Link Myth: Smartcards will encourage public transport use and reduce fare evasion

Melbourne Link Tram conductors to return - abc.net.au (2000)









BACK TO PREVIOUS PAGEView Listings In Same Topic | View More Listings in Melbourne  TOP OF THIS PAGE




Is this your information or business? | Update This Information

What's On Date Selector
Select a date to see What's On In Melbourne


Check Out..
Good Beer Week 2013
View Good Beer Week 2013
Good Beer Week is back from 18th - 26th May with over 140 events listed and 115 venues taking part across Melbourne and regional Victoria. We're back!!!!! And if the early buzz is anything to go ...

The Long Walk | Walk to the G
View The Long Walk | Walk to the G
Join Michael Long at the community celebration before The Long Walk to Dreamtime at the 'G. The annual commemoration of his historic walk to Canberrra is now a popular celebration of Aboriginal ...

Most Viewed Events

Featured Advertiser
Tablemates | Melbourne's Premier Dinner Club
View Tablemates | Melbourne's Premier Dinner Club
Tablemates, Melbourne’s Premier Dinner Club has been established since 1994. Our successful dinner club has been the secret behind many success stories of our members meeting new friends or ...

Resilience & Confidence Programs | Boys & Girls
View Resilience & Confidence Programs | Boys & Girls
Resilience and Confidence programs for young people Aged 5-6, 7-10, 11-14 and 15–19. Location: Brighton, Melbourne. LONGFORD & FRASER Leadership Academy for Boys BOYS: ...

Katie & Jane | Jewellery Making Parties
View Katie & Jane | Jewellery Making Parties
Katie and Jane | Makers of Hand-Crafted Jewellery and Accessories. Katie and Jane are Melbourne jewellery designers who create a wide range of quality handmade jewellery and accessories, using a ...

Editor's Pick
MobiCity
View MobiCity
MobiCity is Australia's No. 1 online mobile phone store, specialising in the best Smartphones, NextG, 4G LTE, Android Phones, Tablets, Phablets and ...


What's On Newsletter
Get our free newsletter every Tuesday.
Enter your email address in the box below...

Read | Newsletter This Week
Read This Week In Melbourne
Read This Week's list of Things To Do in Melbourne including all the major events, festivals, exhibitions, markets and family fun happening this week in Melbourne ...Read Here

Hot Comments