Built by Duncan and Fraser for the Hawthorn Tramways Trust. Delivered in 1918 but transferred, without entering service, to Footscray Tramways Trust in 1919, who in turn were taken over by the Melbourne and Metropolitan Tramways Board in 1920. Classed “M” and numbered 186 by the Board. Purchased by the State Electricity Commission in 1935.
The car was acquired by the Maryborough Wildlife Park when the tramways closed in 1971 and held there until acquired by the Society in 1986. The tramcar is currently stored.
In 1988 body only was accepted by another tramway museum when they could house it, but has since closed. Mechanical equipment removed from body. The BTM decided to retain tram and it was added to the Museum display in its unrestored state.
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MUSEUM STATUS
On display in the Museum as an example of an unrestored tram.
History
1917 – Built for the Hawthorn Tramways Trust (was to be tram No. 36), but placed in storage due to WW1 and lack of mechanical and electrical components.
1918 – Sold to Footscray Tramways Trust (then under construction).
1920 – Taken over by Melbourne & Metropolitan Tramways Board and No. 186, class M, and began its operating life.
1935 – Sold to the State Electricity Commission of Victoria for use on the Ballarat tramway system as No. 32 and converted to final Ballarat form – waist level panels in drop ends, with closeable door in each corner of the tramcar.
1937 – Used as the Official tram to open the Lydiard St North Extension on
1971 – Acquired by the Maryborough Historical and Wildlife Co-op as a static exhibit.
1986 – Acquired by the BTPS principally for the mechanical components. and stored off site.
2022 – Moved into Ballarat as a static display in the Museum
Historical Significance
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HISTORIC
One of a number of this type of tram still in working order in Victorian museums. 32 and 33 have different electrical equipment to other trams of the ex MMTB M class.
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conservation plan
Long term project - California combination similar to 26 but in MMTB colours.
Technical Details
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TYPE
Single truck, drop ends, open California combination
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WHEELBASE
7' 6" (2.29m)
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LENGTH
32' 10" (10.01m)
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WIDTH
8' 11" (2.72m)
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APPROXIMATE MASS
12 tons (12.2 tonnes)
