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

Abel Hoyle Turton was born in 1877 and married Hannah Richardson of Barnawartha, Victoria in 1902. He established a wheelwright and coach making business. Mr. Turton also operated a blacksmith business as a side trade. In his earlier years he was actively involved in the fire brigade, including as Secretary, and on the committee of the Wodonga Brass Band. Mr. Turton also served as secretary of the local branch of the Australian Natives Association. In 1912, despite having received a long service medal for the Wodonga Fire Brigade, Turton resigned for the brigade under a cloud after having been accused of insubordination at a fire. The brigade captain Mr. Twomey also resigned. They were both later reinstated. He died in Wodonga on 24 December 1932. After his death, the premises were taken over by George McFarlane who commenced business as a shoeing smith and general blacksmith.This image records the premises of an early 20th century Wodonga business.A black and white photograph of the premises of A. H. Turton, Coach builder of Wodonga as well as 2 newspaper advertisements for this business.Above the store: A. H. TURTON / COACH BUILDER On windows: PAINTING/ TRIMMING/ RUBBER TYRES A SPECIALITYwodonga businesses, a. h. turton, turton wheelwright wodonga