General Information:

Signals that were released prior to the 1980s used incandescent bulbs to provide a signal to drivers. In the 1960s and 1970s, some states and territories were including target boards to improve the visibility of signals to approaching vehicles, unless space constraints prevented their use, or in selected circumstances, such as improving the signal visibility on overhead or mast arm installations.

This section focuses on traffic signal equipment installed prior to 1980, and features devices found commonly across Australia. All the equipment on this page has been replaced with modern devices.

Controllers:

AWA VPC-2 controller:

Small AWA signal control box, commonly found at signalised pedestrian crossings. May 2006.

Image provided by Darren Hodges, and supplied by the Department of Infrastructure, Energy and Resources (DIER), Traffic Management Branch, Tasmania.

AWA Vac-5 Signal Controller:

Large AWA signal control box, known as the Vac-5, May 2006.

Image provided by Darren Hodges, and supplied by the Department of Infrastructure, Energy and Resources (DIER), Traffic Management Branch, Tasmania.

Pedestrian Signals:

Pedestrian Call Button with 'Wait' Lamp:

Typical 1970s and early 1980s pedestrian call button. When a pedestrian presses the button, the word 'WAIT' lights up on the small screen under the button. The button should also have a rubber jacket over it. October 2006. Located on the corner Charlestown Rd, Lookout Rd and Cardiff Rd, New Lambton, near Newcastle.

Image © Sam Laybutt (Ozroads)

Pedestrian Call Button with 'Wait' Lamp:

Typical 1970s and early 1980s pedestrian call button. When a pedestrian presses the button, the word 'WAIT' lights up on the small screen under the button. The button should also have a rubber jacket over it. October 2006. Located at the corner of Princes Hwy (then M1), Hamilton Hwy (B140) and Ryrie St (C123), Geelong, VIC.

Image © Rob Tilley

Pedestrian Call Button with 'Wait' Lamp:

Typical early 1980s pedestrian call button. The small screen near the bottom of the button is supposed to be red, but vandals have removed the coloured sheeting. When a pedestrian presses the button, the word 'WAIT' lights up on the screen. This is one of the last versions of its type, with larger button and more rounded casing. October 2006. Located at the corner of High St (C277) and Tuagara St (C277), Maryborough, VIC.

Image © Rob Tilley

Pedestrian Call Button with 'Call Recorded' Lamp:

Typical 1960s pedestrian call button. When a pedestrian presses the button, the words 'CALL RECORDED' lights up on the screen near the top of the button. February 2007. Located on Clayton Rd, Clayton, VIC.

Image © Rob Tilley