A black and white photograph of thirty-one children taken at the Diggers Rest State School on 18 August 1924. There are seventeen boys and fourteen girls. Two girls are Eileen and Uraina Cullinan of Bayview Farm.on back in ink: E & U CULLINANcullinan, uraina, eileen, chris, bayview farm, diggers rest, farms, farming, clothing and dress, harvesting, schools, diggers rest state school, haystacks, george evans collection

Diggers & Mining. Diggers and miners. - - - moving alone, or in small parties - - - Slide: STG Wayfaring Diggers 1852. Two diggers resting by a creek. Markings: 40 994:LIF I. Used as a teaching aid.hanimounteducation, tertiary, goldfields

The disused cottage was owned by Alec Lloyd who was the fruiterer in Sunbury. It was situated on a sheep run on the Diggers Rest-Toolern Vale Road and was destroyed by fire in the early 1990's.A coloured photograph of a weatherboard farm cottage in a paddock with tall gum trees behind the house. The cottage with a pitched roof over the main structure and a lean-to with skillion roof at the rear is used as a storage for hay. The remains of a tank are on one side of the house and sheep are grazing around the property.farm cottages, sheep farming, lloyd, alec, george evans collection

The photograph was taken during the 1972 Sunbury Pop Festival which was staged on a property owned by George Duncan. The site is on the banks of the Jacksons Creek between Sunbury and Diggers Rest.An aerial photograph of a crowd of people on a hillside and along a creek valley with a stage set up. On the LHS there is a large marquee surrounded by cars and pitched tents. There are trees around the creek and vast open paddocks in the distance.sunbury pop festival, jacksons creek, duncan, george, george evans collection

prisoner of war obviously had an association with Ms CullinanA black and white image of a group of seventeen men in uniform standing in front of a building with iron bars on the windows. It was sent to Miss E. Cullinan by D. Duggan from Stalag XVIII.on back in ink: to Miss E. Cullinan / Diggers Rest / Victoria / Australia / From D. Duggan / 3617 / 10029 / G. W. STALAG XVIIIA Arb. Kdo / 0.029 / GWworld war 2, cullinan, uraina, eileen, chris, duggan, d., bayview farm, uniforms, clothing and dress, george evans collection

The fire damaged building is the former Diggers Rest Hotel which was ruined by fire in the 1990s. It was the last standing and operating hotel along the Calder Highway between the towns of Keilor and Gisborne. A coloured photograph of a fire gutted building along a roadside with gum trees in the background.

A photo of Old Calder Highway in Diggers Rest with houses on one side and a manmade waterhole on the other side beside the railway line. The railway crossing can be seen in the background next to the railway station.A colour photograph of a waterhole on the side of the road and beside a railway line. It is unmounted.old calder highway, diggers rest, diggers rest railway station, railways, george evans collection

The building which has been damaged by fire is the former Diggers Rest Hotel which was the only surviving hotel along the Calder Highway between the towns of Keilor and Gisborne a distance of approx. 32kms A coloured photograph of a grey rendered building, along a roadside, which has been damaged by fire with a temporary fence surrounding the building. diggers rest, hotels

Denis Gibbons (1937 – 2011) Trained with the Australian Army, before travelling to Vietnam in January 1966, Denis stayed with the 1st Australian Task Force in Nui Dat working as a photographer. For almost five years Gibbons toured with nine Australian infantry battalions, posting compelling war images from within many combat zones before being flown out in late November 1970 after sustaining injuries. The images held within the National Vietnam Veterans Museum make up the Gibbons Collection A black and white photograph of General Creighton Abrams, Brig Sandy Pearson & Maj Gen A.L MaAudio, C.Donald receive a briefing from Lt Col A.L. Morrison OC 9 RAR at Diggers Rest 15 miles NW of Nui Dat.photograph, general creighton abrams, brig sandy pearson, maj gen a.l. maaudio, lt col a.l. morrison, 9 rar, nui dat, diggers rest, gibbons collection catalogue, c. donald, officer commanding, denis gibbons

Invitation was sent to all the members of Slovenian Club Melbourne and friends.An important event for the Slovenians, who wished to have as many interactions with other SloveniansInvitation to the outing to Mt Macedon, Victoria on Sunday, February 22nd, 1959. The invitation tells of the meeting place in front of the State Cinema on Flinders Street, from where the buses will take the Slovenians and friends via Diggers Rest, Gisborne to village Macedon and than to Mt Macedon.Hand drawn illustration of trees, title and typed textinvitation, slovenain association melbourne

A sepia photograph of a haystack being built with a bale elevator at the side and a hay cart at the end at Bayview Farm.on back in ink: HAYSTACK AT 'BAYVIEW'/ABOUT 1934 / 60' (feet) long, 20' (feet) high, 25' (feet) wide / ELEVATOR APPROX 25' (feet) long / 70-100 tons of hay / "Bayview" / 111 DAVIS ROAD / DIGGERS REST 3427cullinan, uraina, eileen, chris, bayview farm, diggers rest, farms, farming, clothing and dress, harvesting, haystacks, george evans collection

Back row from L- R: Rachael Barr, George Duncan, Margaret Grant, James Burnside. Middle row from L-R: George Duncan, John Duncan, Marion Duncan nee Burnside. Front row from L-R: Helen Davenport and Lilian Duncan. The photograph was taken outside 'Glencoe' at Diggers Rest with the family dog included,.A photo of the Duncan family posed in the garden of their house with a backdrop of the verandah. The group comprised of an elderly gentleman, a middle-aged man, a middle-aged woman, 2 young women, 2 young men and 2 girls. The dress is consistent with fashion of the late 19th century. People identified as: back row (L to R): Racheal Barr, George Duncan, Margaret Grant, James Burnside. Middle row: George Duncan, John Duncan, Marion Duncan (nee Burnside). Front row: Helen Davenport, Lillian Duncan. Taken outside Glencoe - with the dog! The photo is mounted on a grey cardboard matt. There are pin holes centre top and bottom and an area with residual sticking tape stain.printed on face: "Matson and Frazer 264 Little Collins Street," Handwritten on face: "Mr Duncan and family"barr, racheal, duncan, george, grant, margaret, burnside, james, john, marion, davenport, helen, lillian, glencoe, eric boardman collection, matson and frazer, 1900s, george evans collection

As Group Communications Officer he operated the VL3 LY base radio station from home on a 24 hour basis for fire brigades of Melton, Rockbank, Sydenham, Diggers Rest, Toolern Vale, Truganina and Werribee. With his brother Edgar, he built the first Melton Fire Truck. It was housed on the family property until a fire station was constructed in the Melton township. Bon at his house on Ferris Road, Meltonlocal identities, emergency services

The Sunbury Cycling Club was formed in September 1897 although prior to that date cycling was popular in the district. A popular place to cycle in those times was at Diggers Rest. In 1897 the Sunbury Cycle Club organised a race around the township. After that local bike races were organised on a weekly basis. According to the caption, the race in the photograph took place some time in 1895.A non-digital sepia photograph backed onto board of a line of men on bicycles in a main street preparing to set off for a cycling race. cycling, cycling races, plumpton avenue, sports clubs

The 11 workmen are standing at the Sunbury railway crossing facing towards the south. It was in Station Street. In the distance the Sunbury Asylum hill is on the LHS. The men are from the Diggers Rest railway gang. Standing in the immediate front is Jim Brain and front left is Malic Cahill, seated is the ganger, Clary Grimmet, 3rd from right is Phil O'Conner, son of Frank and 5th from left is Mick Frouly. It wasn't until 2023 that the level rail crossing at Sunbury was removed by redirecting Station Street under it as part of the Victorian Government's program to remove level rail crossings in built-up areas.A black and white non-digital photograph with a cream border of 11 men standing at a closed country rail crossing. The photograph has been pasted onto a piece of brown light cardboard. In formation about the people in the photograph is on a separate sheet of paper.sunbury rail crossing, station street, railway gangers, railways, jim brain, malic cahill, clary grimmet, frank o'connor, mick frouly

The blue and black printed ticket was issued and used for the 2nd & 3rd days of the 1973 Sunbury Pop Festival. The Festival as held on the property of George Duncan at Diggers Rest on the banks of Jacksons Creek. It was held over the 3 days of the Australia Day Weekend in January. The 'smiley' stamp on the back of the ticket was used as a "passout" check. The tickets were collected by Nicholas Hall who worked as a Security Officer at one of the gates.A blue and black cardboard ticket printed for the 1973 Sunbury Pop Festival. The words Sunbury 73 are in large block letters across the bottom of the ticket and there are four silhouetted figures - 2 male and 2 female. One male is riding a bike and other male is carrying a double bass on his head. The two females are walking. There is a 'smiley' stamp on the back of the ticket."ADMIT 2nd & 3rd DAYS ONLY..."1970s, sunbury pop festival, duncan, george, george evans collection

The damaged building in the photograph is the former Diggers Rest Hotel which was built in on that site in 1854 It was a popular place during the 1970s Sunbury Pop Festivals as it was the closest hotel to the Pop Festival site. It was partly destroyed by a suspicious fire on 30th October 2008, which left the walls and chimney intact but the roof caved in. Since then there have been moves by the local community to either rebuild and reopen the venue or to demolish it.The Diggers Rest has been one of the few early surviving hotels that were built along the former Mount Alexander Road, now Calder Highway, during the 1850s gold rush years.This a non-digital coloured photograph of a double storey hotel building, which has been damaged by fire. The exterior walls are intact but the roof has collapsed.The building is beside a main road. diggers rest, diggers rest hotel, hotels, calder highway, gold rushes

Eric Boardman Collection The Bubeck family lived at Diggers Rest, Toolernvale Road. Felix Bubeck came to Australia with his mother, father and brother. Felix died in 1917-1918. Felix married Mary Ellen Seuling. Mary Ellen was born in 1861. Mary's father was a blacksmith at Keilor in 1858-1940. He is buried at Keilor Cemetery. Felix and Mary had five daughters: Freida, Daphne, Silvia, Violet, Vera. Bubeck on Alex Lloyd's farm. Frank O'C as a boy, delivered groceries from Eadies. (These notes taken from information supplied presumably from Mr and Mrs Hocking as per note with worksheet)Mounted b/w photograph of the Bubeck family showing 1 male and 6 females.Printed on face: "Matson and Frazer / 264 LITTLE COLLINS STREET," Handwritten on face: "Bubeck Family" Handwritten on back: "Eric Boardman"bubeck family, bubeck, felix, seuling, mary ellen, mary ellen (mrs), blacksmiths, freida, daphne, silvia, violet, vera, lloyd, alex, eadies grocery, george evans collection

Erected 1974, dismantled 2000s. The Headquarters was operated from the family home at Ferris road at its inception, and in 1974 to the Barrie home at First Avenue Melton South. A storage office and Radio Tower was erected in the yard. A connection phone line was linked to the home of Wayne and Lynn Sullivan who lived at the rear in Kurrajong Cr later became LY remote. Wayne later became Communications Officer and the Headquarters moved location to the Melton Fire Station. The Mount Cotterill Group encompassed the Rural Fire Brigades of Melton, Rockbank, Sydenham, Toolern Vale, Truganina, and Werribee and later Diggers Rest. In the stage of transition from H.F.( High Frequency) to Very High Frequency some radio sets were non CFA Tankers when the group was established. Antenna was at 19 First Avenue, Melton.emergency services

Ernest W (Bon) Barrie, 1909 – 1985 Melton Fire Brigade (and predecessor Bush Fire Brigade) Apparatus Officer, 1945 - 1953 Captain, 1951 - 1965 Mt Cotterill Fire Brigades’ Group Elected Group Officer, on the formation of the Group, 1967. As Group Communications Officer he operated the VL3 LY base radio station from home on a 24 hour basis for fire brigades of Melton, Rockbank, Sydenham, Diggers Rest, Toolern Vale, Truganina and Werribee. With his brother Edgar, he built the first Melton Fire Truck. It was housed on the family property until a fire station was constructed in the Melton township. Recipient of the Queens Medal, 1979 Recognised for 44 years of service on the Melton Fire Brigade Memorial Wall Plaque, dedicated May 2013 Mt Cotterell Fire Brigades G H Q and aerial was erected at No 17 - 19 First Avenue in 1974 at the home of Edna and Bon Barrie. Previously the Mt Cotterell Group VL3LY communication headquarters occupied their h ome in Ferris road at its inception in 1967. The First Avenue headquarters and map room, with radio equipment was also housed at the residence. It was operated with an additional cable connection to Fireman Wayne Sullivan (Deputy C/O) who resided at the rear in Kurrajong Cr.Section of the Melton Fire Brigade Memorial wall with brigade members who have passed away while as members. emergency services, local identities

Denis Gibbons (1937 – 2011) Trained with the Australian Army, before travelling to Vietnam in January 1966, Denis stayed with the 1st Australian Task Force in Nui Dat working as a photographer. For almost five years Gibbons toured with nine Australian infantry battalions, posting compelling war images from within many combat zones before being flown out in late November 1970 after sustaining injuries. The images held within the National Vietnam Veterans Museum make up the Gibbons Collection. A black and white photograph of RAAF surgeon Wing Commander Alan Beech assisted by triage three medicale officers at the 1st Australian Field Hospital, Vung Tau, South Vietam, view and assess x-rays of a wounded Digger while the rest of he team continue with resusitation prior to surgery.photograph, 1st australian field hospital, vung tau, wg audio, cdr alan beech, medic, digger, gibbons collection catalogue, raaf, denis gibbons

Gratitude for contribution letters Dear Bon and Edna, The members of the Mount Cottrell Group wish to extend to you both their sincere gratitude for the dedicated service you have both provided to the Group Brigades whilst you operated the radio and phone from your home. It is thanks to people such as yourselves who, with foresight, pioneered the Group system and the communications that went with it, that has made the Country Fire Authority what it is today. Words can never express the sacrifices we know you have both made over the years to keep the radio and phone manned. We did try to leave your remote but the Authority would only allow one to Wayne’s residence. Once again many, many thanks to you Bon and Edna for your contribution to the Group, but know we can still look forward to your support in the future, Bon is still a deputy communications officer. Incidently our next meeting is on Wednesday 17th December at the Melton Fire Station, you are both most welcome to attend, our guest that evening will be Ken Coghill M. L. A. Yours Sincerely Darryl Wells Typed letter dated 17th September 1976, Group Secretary  Melton South Dear Mrs. Barrie, The members of the Group wish to extend to you their sincere appreciation for the magnificent job carried out by you in the diligent task of radio operations. It gives confidence and morale to all firemen to know that an any time the pressure’s on, and effective back-up force is readily available via Group Base, and your role in this respect is acknowledged with the highest the highest esteem. Yours sincerely A.J.Morris Group Secretary Copied June 2013 Note MOUNT COTTRELL FIRE BRIDAGES’ GROUP Incorporating the Brigades of Diggers Rest, Melton Rural, Melton Urban Rockbank, Sydenham, Toolern Vale, Truganina, Werribee Rural, Werribee Urban.Edna and Bon Barrie's collection of invitations to fire brigade's eventsemergency services, local identities

SUMMARY - Ernest W (Bon) Barrie, 1909 – 1985 Profile Melton Mechanics Institute Member 1935 - 1982i Trustee 1952 - 1982 Life Member 1968 Years of service – 47 years He constructed and provided a public address system which was used at Melton and district halls and sports grounds for a wide variety of community events including school sports, gymkhanas, theatrical productions and processions. Fire Brigade Melton Fire Brigade (and predecessor Bush Fire Brigade) Apparatus Officer, 1945 - 1953 Captain, 1951 - 1965 Mt Cotterill Fire Brigades’ Group Elected Group Officer, on the formation of the Group, 1967. As Group Communications Officer he operated the VL3 LY base radio station from home on a 24 hour basis for fire brigades of Melton, Rockbank, Sydenham, Diggers Rest, Toolern Vale, Truganina and Werribee. With his brother Edgar, he built the first Melton Fire Truck. It was housed on the family property until a fire station was constructed in the Melton township. Recipient of the Queens Medal, 1979 Recognised for 44 years of service on the Melton Fire Brigade Memorial Wall Plaque, dedicated May 2013 Melton State School, no 430 Committee – School Correspondent (secretarial and financial role) 34 years of Service Provided his Amplifier Equipment for events and the annual district School Sports from 1939-1973. Donated the House Athletic Shield Melton and District Historical Society 1968 – 1985 President and foundation member Willows Historical Park – supported the establishment of the park and contributed many volunteers hours in the construction and landscaping of the precinct Member, Western Metropolitan Groups of Historical Societies, 1980s Shire of Melton Councillor South Riding, 1969-1971 Member of the Water Trust Melton Uniting Church Melton Uniting Church (and its predecessors the Methodist, Methodist-Presbyterian churches). A lifetime association which extended from childhood when he attended Sunday school until his death in 1985. Member of the Presbyterian Board of Management for more than 25 years in which he held positions of Honorary Secretary and Treasurer, Board member of the Parish Council and Member of the Committee of Management. He was a Sunday school teacher 1933. Community development With Mr RC Butler met with Shire Council in 1937 to canvass residents to ascertain prospective Electric consumers in the district. Electricity was subsequently turned on at dusk on 20th December 1939. Melton Progress Association, including Melton Musical, Elocutionary and Vocal Competitions, Vice President 1939 1940 Melton Development Association, 1960s Volunteer Air Observers Corps (VAOC)ii Carried out plane spotting at Shire Office and spotting tower in Melton and later from home until 1944/45. Agriculture and farming Progress and Better Farming Association, Melton. Honorary Secretary, 1935 Member, Agricultural Engineering Society Australia c1960-1985 A successful grower of wheat, oats and barley, he planted experiment plots and held Field Days on the “Darlingsford” property. He later diversified into other grains and sheep (wool and meat). He took a enthusiastic interest in agricultural engineering and was keen to introduce innovative ideas that improved the productivity of farms and farming practices. In the mid 1950 he conducted trials during harvest on the family property of the original mechanical hay fork built on a British Bedford truck by Bill Gillespie. This design was further refined in collaboration with the Gillespie brothers and resulted in the construction the hydraulically operated tractor mounted hay fork. The innovative design of the hay fork created interest from far and wide and was quickly taken up by farmers because it significantly reduced hand labouring of loading sheaves of hay with a pitch fork. His father established chaff mills in Melton, Rockbank, Parwan, Diggers Rest in the first decade of 1900 and in 1915 went into partnership with JR Schutt to establish the Schutt & Barrie Pty. Ltd. Chaff Cutting and Flour Mill in West Footscray. When it ceased trading in 1968 the directors were: Ernest W Barrie and Thomas L Barrie, R, A, and M Schutt. Awards Queens Medal, 1979 Rotary Award for Community Service, 1980 Victoria 150th Anniversary Celebrations contributions, 1985 Service held at Melton Uniting Church local identities

SUMMARY - Ernest W (Bon) Barrie, 1909 – 1985 Profile Melton Mechanics Institute Member 1935 - 1982i Trustee 1952 - 1982 Life Member 1968 Years of service – 47 years He constructed and provided a public address system which was used at Melton and district halls and sports grounds for a wide variety of community events including school sports, gymkhanas, theatrical productions and processions. Fire Brigade Melton Fire Brigade (and predecessor Bush Fire Brigade) Apparatus Officer, 1945 - 1953 Captain, 1951 - 1965 Mt Cotterill Fire Brigades’ Group Elected Group Officer, on the formation of the Group, 1967. As Group Communications Officer he operated the VL3 LY base radio station from home on a 24 hour basis for fire brigades of Melton, Rockbank, Sydenham, Diggers Rest, Toolern Vale, Truganina and Werribee. With his brother Edgar, he built the first Melton Fire Truck. It was housed on the family property until a fire station was constructed in the Melton township. Recipient of the Queens Medal, 1979 Recognised for 44 years of service on the Melton Fire Brigade Memorial Wall Plaque, dedicated May 2013 Melton State School, no 430 Committee – School Correspondent (secretarial and financial role) 34 years of Service Provided his Amplifier Equipment for events and the annual district School Sports from 1939-1973. Donated the House Athletic Shield Melton and District Historical Society 1968 – 1985 President and foundation member Willows Historical Park – supported the establishment of the park and contributed many volunteers hours in the construction and landscaping of the precinct Member, Western Metropolitan Groups of Historical Societies, 1980s Shire of Melton Councillor South Riding, 1969-1971 Member of the Water Trust Melton Uniting Church Melton Uniting Church (and its predecessors the Methodist, Methodist-Presbyterian churches). A lifetime association which extended from childhood when he attended Sunday school until his death in 1985. Member of the Presbyterian Board of Management for more than 25 years in which he held positions of Honorary Secretary and Treasurer, Board member of the Parish Council and Member of the Committee of Management. He was a Sunday school teacher 1933. Community development With Mr RC Butler met with Shire Council in 1937 to canvass residents to ascertain prospective Electric consumers in the district. Electricity was subsequently turned on at dusk on 20th December 1939. Melton Progress Association, including Melton Musical, Elocutionary and Vocal Competitions, Vice President 1939 1940 Melton Development Association, 1960s Volunteer Air Observers Corps (VAOC)ii Carried out plane spotting at Shire Office and spotting tower in Melton and later from home until 1944/45. Agriculture and farming Progress and Better Farming Association, Melton. Honorary Secretary, 1935 Member, Agricultural Engineering Society Australia c1960-1985 A successful grower of wheat, oats and barley, he planted experiment plots and held Field Days on the “Darlingsford” property. He later diversified into other grains and sheep (wool and meat). He took a enthusiastic interest in agricultural engineering and was keen to introduce innovative ideas that improved the productivity of farms and farming practices. In the mid 1950 he conducted trials during harvest on the family property of the original mechanical hay fork built on a British Bedford truck by Bill Gillespie. This design was further refined in collaboration with the Gillespie brothers and resulted in the construction the hydraulically operated tractor mounted hay fork. The innovative design of the hay fork created interest from far and wide and was quickly taken up by farmers because it significantly reduced hand labouring of loading sheaves of hay with a pitch fork. His father established chaff mills in Melton, Rockbank, Parwan, Diggers Rest in the first decade of 1900 and in 1915 went into partnership with JR Schutt to establish the Schutt & Barrie Pty. Ltd. Chaff Cutting and Flour Mill in West Footscray. When it ceased trading in 1968 the directors were: Ernest W Barrie and Thomas L Barrie, R, A, and M Schutt. Awards Queens Medal, 1979 Rotary Award for Community Service, 1980 Victoria 150th Anniversary Celebrations contributions, 1985 Photographs of Bon Barrielocal identities, pioneer families

"Melton has a long and celebrated history of horse breeding and racing. Draught horses were a crucial aspect of life in the early days of European settlement, and were heavily depended upon for both transport and agricultural labour. Peppercorn trees at the corner of Station and Brooklyn roads have been associated with a horse trough installed there to provide a drink to workhorses carting produce to the chaff mills and railway station south of Melton.20 Breeders, trainers and harness drivers in the area later became such an influential force in the equine industry that this came to be a defining aspect of the district’s identity and reputation.Pioneer of the Victorian horse racing industry and early Rockbank squatter William Cross Yuille was one of the earliest importers of stud racehorses in the district in the 1850s. A leading sports editor and writer, Yuille established bloodstock auctioning agency W. C. Yuille & Co. and was involved in the compilation of the first Australian Stud Book, which ensures the integrity of thoroughbred breeding in Australia. According to early Melton chronicler Alexander Cameron, horse races were first organised in the area by Rockbank farmer William Keating. Keating owned racehorses of his own, and many brought horses from Melbourne for the events, which ‘drew large gatherings’.22 Melton Racing Club meetings were held on the Exford Estate with the permission of H. W. Staughton, who built a small wooden grandstand in 1882. Other early races and sports meetings are said to have been held in the vicinity of the current-day Melton golf course.23 An 1884 article reported that Melton’s ‘race programme … equals any put forth by country towns of far greater size’. Ernest Clarke was another important figure in the early horse racing industry in Melton. He established the Melton Stud in 1902, which bred numerous successful racehorses. Perhaps most notably The Welkin, one of the most famous stallions in Australian horse racing in the early twentieth century. The Welkin sired Gloaming, bred by Clarke at the Melton stud in 1915 and one of Australia’s greatest champion racehorses. During a long and prestigious career in both Australia and New Zealand, Gloaming achieved a triumphant 57 wins out of 67 starts and won a record amount of prize money. Ken Cox purchased the Stockwell Stud in Diggers Rest in 1957 and developed it into one of the largest and most renowned thoroughbred breeders in Australia. With its top-class facilities, international design standards and scientific methods, Stockwell became ‘the flagship of the Victorian breeding industry’.26 As well as racing studs, numerous trotting tracks were established on the flat plains around Melton in the 1960s.27 Other studs to play a leading role in the development of Melton as thoroughbred country were Cornwall Park and Merrywood at Toolern Vale, St John’s Lane Stud at Diggers Rest and Birchwood, Teppo Park and Dreelburn in the far north-east of the shire, near Sunbury. By 1985, thoroughbred horse breeding was such big business in Melton that the shire council adopted the slogan ‘The Heart of Thoroughbred Country’, which was used throughout its promotional material.29 But the slogan contained deeper meaning and was not just about Melton’s great equine industry and thoroughbred champions, the council explained: ‘“Thoroughbred Country” should be seen as a new concept of Melton, as a place where people can achieve the “Thoroughbred” ideal, excellence in all aspects of life’. The aim of the council in promoting ‘The Heart of Thoroughbred Country’, was ‘to instil in present and future residents the feeling that this is a place that is better than others. A place to be proud of’. In 1988, Melton’s champion reinsman Gavin Lang won his 176th race of the season, claiming the national harness racing record for the most wins in a single season.The following year, the first Melton Plate was held at Moonee Valley Racecourse, cementing the district’s importance in the harness racing industry. The inaugural winner was Victorys Phil, owned by local Danny Mullan. By the 1990s, Melton had earned the title of the ‘Home of Harness Racing in Victoria’. State-of-the-art, world-class harness racing facility and entertainment complex Tabcorp Park opened in Melton in 2009. In 2011, the Shire of Melton was home to over 140 registered trainers and over 1,200 horses. The municipality’s continuing leadership and influence in the industry today is a testament to the skills, talents and leadership of the local community over its history".Shire of Melton pamphlet of a map and information of the equine industry in Meltoncouncil

SUMMARY - Schutt & Barrie Chaff Mills Partnership West Footscray, Parwan and Diggers Rest. Mary nee Barrie Robinson (1907 –1999) writes c1980 about her father Charles Ernest Barrie of Darlingsford Melton (1871 – 1931) Extract copied from her handwritten story - My father was born in Ballarat in 1871. … commenced his working life with a team of bullocks and a chaffcutter in the St Arnaud district, a work the he became most success at and would continue in to the end of his life. He eventually became the owner of a chaff mill at Melton station with an access line to the railway. [1900] The Schutt & Barrie partnership ….Dad later became involved in a Chaff mill at West Footscray run by John Ralph Schutt who when he met Dad was a very sick man and had begged Dad to come into the business and help him. That began a very happy association, the business was put on its feet. An empty quarry across Geelong Road opposite the mill was purchased, the chaffcutters were set up in the quarry and that was the start of a very busy and prosperous period. A branch line was run into the mill. Dad spent some afternoons at the mill going by train, and spending some hours there at night, at the same time running the farm with full time help. Two full 8 horse teams were used to work the land, which meant early rising for the horses to be fed and harnessed ready for the men to commence the days work. Charlie Lowe and Murdock Davey were two of the men who worked for Dad in those years. The firm purchased a mill at Parwan and Dad spent a lot of time and energy getting it running to their satisfaction. Monday was the day he spent time there also round the district of Parwan and Balliang. He came to know many of the their names were well known in our household for many years. [1920] Later a flour mill was built beside the Chaff mill at West Footscray but it never thrived like the mill. The chaff mill had many loyal and good men employed there and there was never any trouble between men and management. Willie Walters and Miss Renyolds were some I remember, other names me, Joyce would be able to name them. [Sister of Mary born 1920] Sample envelope from the businesslocal identities

In the 1950s with the introduction two-way HF and later VHF very high frequency radio sets. Melton Rural Fire Brigade was part of the Bacchus Marsh Group. Radio sets where located in the Melton Fire Truck, and in the house of the Barrie family at Ferris Road. This was an ideal location to observe a 360 degree view in all directions when smoke appeared on the horizon. An antenna was erected beside the house. The set OX 7 was located in the kitchen and monitored 24 hours by the family. When an electrical fire occurred at the junction of the electricity to the house there was time to radio the fire station and summons the men working in the paddocks, thus saving the house from possible destruction. With the introduction of UHF – ultra high frequency Vinten Radios the signal was clearer and static and interference lessened and radio traffic became easier to read, and reduced noise levels in the household. VL3 LY Radio Base became the Group Headquarters was established in 1967. By 1970 the Brigades were: Melton, Rockbank, Sydenham, Toolern Vale, Diggers Rest, Truganina, and Werribee. In 1974 when the family moved to First Avenue, another antenna and a small building were erected adjacent to the residence and used to house the equipment, maps. Radio traffic consisted of regular schedule times and communication with adjoining groups of brigades such as Bacchus Marsh, Mt Macedon and Little River Groups. Many of the brigade and group base radios were situated in private residences and operated primarily by fire fighters wives who held the position of Communications Officer, either registered as a brigade member or informally. Edna was never registered as an operational brigade member but operated informally as an assistant to her husband Bon. She was however a member of the Melton Fire Brigade Ladies Auxiliary from its inception in 1968, a non-operational position. Edna kept up to date with radio procedure following the 1967 handbook; preparing maps, plotting compass points and taking notes on weather forecasts from the SA Border and Western District. Daily notes were taken in anticipation of fire warnings. These log books and daily radio traffic were incidental to the regular radio schedules. Emergency turnouts noted, burning off times and predicted location of smoke. In the summer fire season all TBF (total fire ban days were recorded.) In times of emergency the Barrie family assisted Bon the base radio operator to plot the position and location of fire trucks and to help clarify garbled radio traffic, keep notes and make telephone calls. These log books are held in the EE and EW Family Archive. Items selected by Wendy Barrie for viewing Melton Fire Brigade celebrationsemergency services, local identities

Edna Barrie handwritten notes – copied 18th October 2013 web The early story of the Wesleyan Methodist Church in Victoria At Melton between Bal [Ballarat] and Melb [Melbourne] was introduced by the Revd Wlm Blamires in 1862 ably seconded by the late Mrs Westlake (afterwards Mrs Spargo). Mr J James, the active and indefatigable Revd Eb Taylor and such workers as Atkinson Corr and Ferris. Mawson and John Dare 1867 the foundation stone of the present church was laid. Revd D Waugh 1867. Melton and Toolern Vale have benefited by the generous help of Mr J Browne esquire of White Hills Station Diggers Rest and are now comprised in the Sunshine Circuit. Written at a later date – Wesleyan 16-4-1867 then Methodist 3-10-1867. Bluestone building cost Lsd 350-13-6. Seating 40 pounds Rev Ken Moore Methodist opened at Brooklyn Rd Melton South c1940 closed c 1972. Timber Church shifted from Staughton Vale, prior to this Services held in Victoria Hall Melton South. The source of the information – ? and date notes were made On the Chart outlining Melton Churches the following additional notes- At opening (nil Plaster, nil ceiling) Slate roof. Closed 1910-1911- most likely from 1867 Express My research - Melton Express noted 15th Aug 1939 porch added to Church at Melton South making the date earlier than 1940. Photographs taken when the building was being used as the UC Opp Shop and demolition of the building showing the porch. Charles Ernest Barrie was prominent in the life of the Methodist Church and established a thriving Sunday School. He built the Chaff Mills at Melton South in 1900. In 1910 he sold the Mill to Glover Onians and moved to a farm at Trundle NSW, where he lived for about a year. In May 1911 he purchased “Darlingsford” in Melton when it came on the market. The address Elizabeth St Moonee Ponds appears in the family records during this period and during WW 1 they also lived at Ascot Vale where the Lang parents lived. On returning after the war to Melton to occupy the Darlingsford house, which had been occupied by a caretaker. The family joined the Presbyterian Church. Evidenced in the Church Minute Book. 1920 What happened to the Methodist Church between 1910 – 1920? How long did it exist while in the Bluestone building in Palmerston St (Heritage listed 2008) When did the church commence in Victoria Hall? Built 1910 on land donated by C E Barrie. I attended the Methodist Church Melton Sth when monthly services were held in the afternoons. We were members of the Presbyterian Church and also supported the Melton Sth Church during the 1950’s Signboard from Melton South Methodist Churchchurches

Article titled The Bendigo Post Office, compiled by L C Bennetts. Mentioned is the history of the Bendigo Post Office and postmarks, some information on mining, Bendigo foundries, Underground connections of mines, expenses and shaft sinking costs. Also mentioned is Bendigo and Eaglehawk - 60 years ago and the role the pubs played in daily living. They were where theatres, concerts and dances were held, and the meeting rooms for clubs and lodges, even church benefits. Listed is a number of Bendigo hotels. Some even had a few names. Names of the pubs are: The Freemasons, The Courthouse, The Commercial Law Courts, The Hamburg, The European, The Prince Bismark, The Lord Kitchener, The Bendigo, The Rosalind Park, The Showgrounds, Atheneum Club, Olivers, Bridge Hotel, Bourkes, The Globe, The Hibernia, Albert, Albion, Abbotts, Australian, Belvidere, Beehive, British Queen, Black Eagle, British and American, Brian Boru, Bakers Arms, Butchers Arms, Brick Layers Arms, Bull and Mouth, Cresent, Clarence, Back Creek Bridge, Cape Clear, Crooked Billet, Cambridgeshire Arms, Camp, Coach and Horses, Cricketers Arms, Diggers Rest, Ellesmere, Five Lions, Franklyn, Golden Square, Golden Gate, Golden Gully, Golden Age, Golden Vine, Gumtree, Glasgow Reef, Great Britain, Haymarket, Daniel O'Connell, Half Way House, Fleece Inn, Ironbark, Johnsons Reef, Lancashire, Live and Let Live, Manchester Arms, Gold Mines, Metropolitan, Crown, National, New Chum, Honeysuckle Street, Pavilion, Napier Arms, Quartz Miners Arms, Retreat Inn, Rainbow, Rose of Australia, Lake View, Robin Hood, Fountain, Southern Cross, Bath, Berlin, Spring Gully, Star, Sir Charles Hotham, Silvermines, Royal Oak, Suburban, Town Hall, Temperance, Ship Inn, View Point, View Bend, Victoria, Exchange, American, Arcade, Belfast, All Nations, Union, United Kingdom, Union Jack, Westend, Washington, Waterloo, Wellington, Whitehorse, Wheat Sheaf, Yorkshire, Niagra and Noahs Ark.bendigo, history, long gully history group, the long gully history group - the bendigo post office, l c bennetts, mt alexander post office, porcupine inn, cenotaph, pike or pyke, baby health centre, sandhurst post office, government survey office, queen elizabeth oval, sandhurst trustees company, mr h b briston, savings bank, telegraph office, the sub-treasury, sir henry brougham lock kcb, sir john nimmo mla, prince of wales group of mines, the new prince of wales, eaglehawk golf links, new prince of wales no 2, the whip and jersey, mines department, lansell's big 180, new chum and victoria mine and battery, new chum railway, koch's pioneer, south new moon, catherine reef united, new moon, the virginia, south bell vue, central nell gwynne, north nell gwynne, miner's phthisis, hercules engine house, ironbark, new chum syncline, hercules energetic, roberts & sons, harkness & co, horwoods, great southern, ulster, carlisle, lansells big 180, victoria quartz, new st mungo, duchess tribute, south devonshire, hopewell mine, saxby mine, mcnair & co, shamrock, mr king, burke and wills expedition, sandhurst hotel, courthouse, hiberian, the freemasons, the courthouse, the commercial law courts, the hamburg, the european, the prince bismark, the lord kitchener, the bendigo, the rosalind park, the showgrounds, atheneum club, olivers, bridge hotel, bourkes, the globe, the hibernia, albert, albion, abbotts, australian, belvidere, beehive, british queen, black eagle, british and american, brian boru, bakers arms, butchers arms, brick layers arms, bull and mouth, cresent, clarence, back creek bridge, cape clear, crooked billet, cambridgeshire arms, camp, coach and horses, cricketers arms, diggers rest, ellesmere, five lions, franklyn, golden square, golden gate, golden gully, golden age, golden vine, gumtree, glasgow reef, great britain, haymarket, daniel o'connell, half way house, fleece inn, ironbark, johnsons reef, lancashire, live and let live, manchester arms, gold mines, metropolitan, crown, national, new chum, honeysuckle street, pavilion, napier arms, quartz miners arms, retreat inn, rainbow, rose of australia, lake view, robin hood, fountain, southern cross, bath, berlin, spring gully, star, sir charles hotham, silvermines, royal oak, suburban, town hall, temperance, ship inn, view point, view bend, victoria, exchange, american, arcade, belfast, all nations, union, united kingdom, union jack, westend, washington, waterloo, wellington, whitehorse, wheat sheaf, yorkshire, niagra, noahs ark