Lithgow’s Small Arms Factory celebrated its 100th anniversary this year and the SAF Museum there is continuing the celebrations with some upcoming events that’ll cock your historical interest.
The museum will put on a major display of pre-federation colonial weapons from 24 September until 27 October, and kick it off with an official opening, then host a weekend seminar in October.
The opening, on 29 September, will include demonstrations and presentations by members of the Antique Arms Collectors Society of Australia.
For the usual museum entry price ($8 adult, $6 pensioner) you’ll get to take part and enjoy a slice of centenary cake and a cuppa, as well as see the regular displays that cover all manner of SAF, military and firearm history.
Then on 20-21 October, the seminar weekend will cover a number of subjects surrounding military weaponry and tactics, and the Small Arms Factory’s history.
It’s a pretty amazing history, too, which includes the manufacture of 640,000 Lee Enfield .303 rifles during the two World Wars.
As well as Bren guns, Vickers machine guns and other weapons, the still-active factory has made shearing products, aircraft parts and a range of other items to keep it going when demand for military equipment was low.
It also made sporting guns, and was involved in research and development for the military.
The seminar will cost you $25 to attend for one day, or $40 for both, and bookings are essential.
Contact the museum at lithgowsafmuseum@ozemail.com.au or call (02) 6351 4452. It is located in Methven St, Lithgow, NSW.
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