Commuting by Cable: Musical trams

Great views of the streets and vehicles of Melbourne in the 1920s.

Commuting by Cable synopsis

Using historical footage this documentary records the story of cable trams in Melbourne from 1885 to 1940. Enthusiasts have recorded the tram routes and operation of the cable and maintenance of the cable system.

Commuting by Cable curator's notes

The documentary will fully satisfy the curiosity of the most dedicated transport enthusiast. It is a remarkably detailed account that is also useful as a history of Melbourne. The music used to recreate the period is also a delight.

Cable trams were operated by 'gripmen’ who used a device to lock onto the moving underground cable to propel the tram forward. The term 'grip’ was taken up by the film industry to describe the role of the person in the camera department who operated camera mounts such as dollies and cranes.

Notes by Damien Parer