Victorian Railway Workshops, Art & Antiques was established by Sylvia & Kosta Kostoski, who have been trading as Antique Dealers since 1985.
From the beginning, we incorporated both formal and industrial antique pieces in our shop.
By 1987 we had secured the contract with the Victorian Railways, to dispose of all surplus to requirement pre privatisation. The Victorian Railways was full of beautiful Industrial Revolution period furniture and artifacts that had been used since the 1870’s
Unlike Europe and America, here in Australia, the need to fulfill war machines for WWI and WWII didn’t require the melting down of metals, alloys and wood to fire the furnaces, so it was all there in situ being used and usable.
It was a pleasure and privilege to be removing all that Australian heritage material including: furniture, artifacts and historical relics.
It took us 13 years to fulfill our obligation to the Victorian Railways, by which time we had secured the majority of the surplus heritage material.
From the beginning, we mounted a campaign to promote public awareness of the historical beauty and practicality of the furniture and artifacts. We have had a number of articles published in newspapers Lifestyle Magazines, and have featured in TV programs.
Since then, Industrial Antique furnishings have become a worldwide phenomenon. We could say, we kick started it off but that would be up for debate!
Due to our passion, integrity and honesty, we have had the privilege of expanding our collection to include other government and private institutions. Several of these include: The State Library of Victoria, The Athenaeum, Victorian Tramways, State Parliament, Universities, Government Councils, Golf Clubs and general industry.
We now have at our disposal a vast museum quality collection of Victorian Era goods. This has made us popular within the film, TV and advertising industry for props and dressings.
In our current incarnation, we are trading from our regional property on Smales Road in Seymour. Currently visits are by appointment only.
So feel free to call or email to discuss with us what we can offer you.