Post by NZBC on Oct 13, 2009 17:11:53 GMT 12
Volunteer Albert Chan has been turning up to Motat for more than 30 years to work as a tram driver.
The Henderson resident is one of many people who give their time to make sure the museum runs smoothly.
Albert got involved around 1976 after a former workmate, who used to drive the trams, invited him to have a look around.
"He asked me to join and I’ve been here ever since."
Albert will cele-brate his third decade in the role this November.
He works for the Auckland Mail Centre from Sunday to Thursday but makes it to the museum every Saturday for a spell behind the wheel.
The 62-year-old grew up in Mt Eden and vividly remembers the trams that used to run up Dominion Rd to the city.
He says Auckland’s trams went out of service in 1956.
Working as a volunteer is an enjoyable experience.
"I like to give people a helping hand," he says.
"And I enjoy meeting people."
His encyclopaedic knowledge of the city’s trams also comes in handy.
"We always have a few moments to spare at either end of the trip and I talk to the people about the history of the trams."
Albert’s two sons Leyton and Vincent have also helped out at the museum since 2004.
Both are design engineers by day and have helped restore some of the trams. Leyton also does some tram driving.
The museum is celebrating Volunteer Awareness Week to highlight the important role people like Albert and his sons have played at Motat since it first opened in 1964.
There will be guided tours to see some of the museum’s volunteers in action.
There is also a special photographic display on the work they do.
Go online to www.motat.org.nz or phone 815-5800 for information.
www.stuff.co.nz/auckland/local-news/western-leader/2508526/Volunteers-driving-force-behind-Motat
The Henderson resident is one of many people who give their time to make sure the museum runs smoothly.
Albert got involved around 1976 after a former workmate, who used to drive the trams, invited him to have a look around.
"He asked me to join and I’ve been here ever since."
Albert will cele-brate his third decade in the role this November.
He works for the Auckland Mail Centre from Sunday to Thursday but makes it to the museum every Saturday for a spell behind the wheel.
The 62-year-old grew up in Mt Eden and vividly remembers the trams that used to run up Dominion Rd to the city.
He says Auckland’s trams went out of service in 1956.
Working as a volunteer is an enjoyable experience.
"I like to give people a helping hand," he says.
"And I enjoy meeting people."
His encyclopaedic knowledge of the city’s trams also comes in handy.
"We always have a few moments to spare at either end of the trip and I talk to the people about the history of the trams."
Albert’s two sons Leyton and Vincent have also helped out at the museum since 2004.
Both are design engineers by day and have helped restore some of the trams. Leyton also does some tram driving.
The museum is celebrating Volunteer Awareness Week to highlight the important role people like Albert and his sons have played at Motat since it first opened in 1964.
There will be guided tours to see some of the museum’s volunteers in action.
There is also a special photographic display on the work they do.
Go online to www.motat.org.nz or phone 815-5800 for information.
www.stuff.co.nz/auckland/local-news/western-leader/2508526/Volunteers-driving-force-behind-Motat