In an excerpt from his talk at the Moss Vale Methodist Church, William Charlesworth recounts an interesting experience he had at the station:

“When war was declared on a Sunday night in 1939 I was at the garage residence preparing for my next week’s trip to Nowra. I had heard on the radio that we were at war.

At about 9.30 I had a phone call from the Moss Vale Police Station that a very important person was arriving on the Melbourne Express at 10pm and needed a car and driver and had to return to Sydney.

I was the only driver available at that time and the only car available was a fairly old model.

I arrived at the Railway Station as the train pulled in and the VIP was none other than the PM of Australia Sir Robert Menzies. He was surprised to see such a young man as his intended driver and discussed with the Police Sargent who confirmed I was experienced and capable of doing the job so we were set to go.

Young man (18 and a bit), old car and the PM.

I was briefed on what was to happen. His state car would be leaving Sydney to meet us along the way. This car would be fitted with a lighted crown on the roof.

When we saw this I was to flash the lights. We left Moss Vale with a very worried PM in the back and I can assure you an equally worried driver in the front.

However the plans went well and when we met at Narellan Mr Menzies shook hands and thanked me, gave me his card and office address to send the account.

This was done and we were properly paid. The next day I resumed my mail run which I did until 1942, when I was called up for Army service.”

There will be plenty to do throughout the day.

The Governor will arrive at the station about 11am and will be greeted by Highlands Pipes and Drums and the Army Cadets from Chevalier College.

A plaque will be unveiled following some speeches and a gallery of historic photos will also be on display.

The Vice Regal private waiting room will be open to the public.

The Rail Motor Society’s Shuttle Train from Mittagong, Bowral and Moss Vale return will be in operation. (Details 0413 672 408 and tickets: Destination Southern Highlands 1300 657 559).

St Georges River Model Railway Club will hold a display and there will be Australian Railway Historical Society and Berrima District Historical Society stalls along with markets in Argyle Street.

The day will run between 10am and 3pm.