To acknowledge the work of the Tilly Aston Council, the name of the chairman was inscribed on a signboard which hung at the Kooyong centre. At the top of the signboard is written 'Vision Australia Foundation' with the VAF eye logo located in the top left-hand corner. Underneath this are listed the names of the people who chaired the Tilly Aston Council: 1970-1988 Bryan Sitlington, 1989-1990 John Bland, 1990-1992 Jean Ross, 1992-1995 Eve Lustig, 1995-1997 Don Draffin, 1997-1999 John Perry, 1999-2002 Graeme Jones, 2002-2005 Valerie Thomas. At the base of the board is written: 1989-2005 Shirley Admans, Manager, Tilly Aston Council.Brown rectangular board with gold letteringvision australia foundation, bryan sitlington, john bland, jean ross, eve lustig, don draffin, john perry, graeme jones, valerie thomas, shirley admans

Vice Chancellor was influential in promoting University of Ballarat in becoming a central player in the Ballarat and Western Victoria region. In 1998 he oversaw the amalgamation of the University with two Tafe institutions, which created the only multi-sectorial regional university in Australia. Professor James was a formal Ballarat City Councillor, the Chairman of the Ballarat Foundation from 2001 to 2008. He was also the recipient of the Centenary Medal in 2003 – an award created by the Centenary of Federation, which recognises the achievements of a cross-section of the Australian community, by honouring people who have contributed to society of government in Australia. This item is part of the Federation University Art Collection. The Art Collection features over 2000 works and was listed as a 'Ballarat Treasure' in 2007. Framed academic portrait of inaugural Univesity of Ballarat Vice-Chancellor David James.Lower RHS M. Henwood 01art, artwork, michael henwood, henwood, david james, vice chancellor, academic portrait, portrait, academic regalia

The Geelong branch committee was established in 1976 to manage the Geelong Centre then based in Pakington Street, Newtown. One early decision was to call the Centre "Illawarra", meaning 'high place above or overlooking the sea'. The branch committee disbanded in 1993. The auxiliary was established in 1963 to increase services for blind and vision impaired local people by raising funds for Vision Australia Foundation, then known as the Association for the Blind. Over the next 39 years, until is disbanded in February 2002, the Illawarra Auxiliary (renamed in 1976) raised many thousands of dollars to achieve this aim. Branch Chairman: 1976-79 Mrs L.W.M. Heath, 1980-82 Mr R. Averay, 1982-85 Mr L.W.M. Heath, 1985-88 Mr P.P. Larcey, 1988-91 Dr. B.J. Landsell, 1991-93 Mr F. Francesevic Auxiliary President: 1964-66 Mrs K.S. Nall, 1967-69 Mrs G.S. Gray, 1970-72 Mrs L.M.W. Heath, 1973 Mrs E. Currell, 1974-75 Mrs L.W.M. Heath, 1975-78 Mrs E. Snibson, 1979-84 Mrs I.E. Backwell, 1984-86 Mrs D.P. Smith, 1986-89 Mrs E.E.A. Donaldson, 1989-93 Mrs B. McKane, 1993-99 Mrs J. Backwell, 1999- Mrs B. McKane This photograph was taken of the honour board that previously hung in the Geelong Centre.Image of honour board with names of the people who were Geelong Branch chairmen or Auxiliary Presidents association for the blind, illawarra (geelong)

These minutes contain information on attendees, meeting chairs, apologies, matters arising out of minutes, correspondence, subscriptions, donations and general business. Reports are also included from Honorary Treasurer, Finance, Corporate Services, Accommodation Services, Rehabilitation, Library Services, Marketing, Mitchell Manufacturing, Administration Support, Information Technology and Personnel. 30/9/1989 presents a detailed report from the General Manager regarding the proposed sale of Mitchell Manufacturing with the approach from Australia Foundation for the Disabled. 30/11/1989 the General Manager announced the decision to Mitchell Manufacturing staff that afternoon and he reported that so far the transfer had preceded smoothly and that staff now seemed to accept that they would benefit from it. 25/3/1991 The Chairman, Mr. Cribb reported that the Library staff had moved into the new building. 1 volume of minutes from committee meetingsroyal blind society of nsw, mitchell manufacturing

Former Premier of Queensland, Mike Ahern, was the guest speaker at the Vision Queensland AGM, held on October 28, 1998. Other attendees included chairman John Puttick, and board directors Des Knight, Ian Barclay and Terry Boyle, as well as Peta Nagle and Kevin O'Mahoney.12 col. photographs of attendees at the 1998 Vision Qld AGMThe Honourable Mike Ahern, former Premier of Queensland and Chairman of the Queensland Community Foundation Board. Guest speaker at Vision Queensland's AGM 27/10/1998vision qld, mike ahern, john puttick, peta nagle, kevin o'mahoney, des knight, ian barclay, terry boyle

Hand written testimonies to Neil's work at AFB and VAF. The card reads: Dear Neil, Thank you for showing us the way. We look forward to working with you in all the Kooyong Committee's future endeavors. (Signed by) Margaret Deane, Judith Williams, Bette MacSween, Don Lee, Eve Lustig, Greg ?, Mavis ? The paper reads: Neil Maxwell has always been a very special person over the years he has been at Kooyong. He has been on the board of the Association for the blind from 1984-1993 and became a Director. Neil also became a Tour Guide on the 1st February 1989 and he was tutored by Marjory Lane, and he became very adept in learning new information very quickly. He worked with the Guides until the 7th April 1997. He has also joined the Kooyong Committee and became Chairman in 1998. Neil has given a lot of years to Vision Australia Foundation. He has always been a giver not a taker. Thank you Neil from The Kooyong Committee.Collection of cards paying tribute to Neil Maxwellnon-fictionelizabeth maxwell, neil maxwell

David McKenzie obituary, Romsey Examiner 1928 Another of Australia’s very old pioneers in the person of Mr McKenzie, passed away last weekend at his daughters residence At regent at the ripe old age of 92 years ( he would be 93 in November) Born at Berwick of Tweed Scotland, the late Mr McKenzie arrived in Australia with two of his uncles in 1855 by the ship “Red Jacket”. A stone- mason by trade he worked about Melbourne and at Geelong until attack by “gold fever” but met with no success at this venture so he returned to his trade, arriving at Melton about 1860. There he married and settles for about 20 years. In 1880 the Cherokee Heights with its subdivision was famous and Mr McKenzie moved there with his daughter. He continues in his trade, his work extending to Gisborne, Bacchus Marsh, Romsey, and Springfield and other places, where to this day, may be seen monuments of his skill and through tradesmanship as a mason. During his residence in the Mount, he took a keen interest in all the affairs of Kerrie and Cherokee, and he was a familiar figure at all the public gatherings at which he nearly always filled the position of Chairman, because of outstanding qualifications. He was a man of those sterling qualities possessed by those men who laid the foundation of this country so well and truly. Loyal, broad of vision, just in thought and deed, honourable to the extreme in all dealings, fearless in the cause of right, a lover of home and family, and ready to lend a hand to all progressive movements. To the memory of those grand men the youth of today should lift their hats in reverence. Mr McKenzie was a prolific reader of educational works, and the wonderful knowledge he retained upon a variety of subjects was a source joy to those who associated with him. His wife predeceased him by 43 years ago soon after arrival in Cherokee. A Pioneer of Melton There are probably some residents left at Melton and Bacchus Marsh who will remember the late Mr McKenzie, one of them has written as follows:- I knew the late Mr. McKenzie since I was a little boy – over 50 years ago- and no better man ever lived than he, he was a good man from every point of view. The late Mr McKenzie was born on the November 25th, 1835 at Montrose, Scotland. He came to Australia in 1853 and resided for a time with his uncle the late Mr. Gibson on the Kororoit Creek near Melton. A few years later he settled in Melton. In 1861 he was married to Miss Mary Buchanan, the eldest daughter of the late Mr. George Buchanan, one of the early settlers of Melton. Deceased resided on the main road to Bacchus Marsh one mile from Melton. He was a stone- mason by trade, and some fine buildings in Melton and surrounding districts to this day, stand to his credit. He built the Presbyterian Church Melton. The old school, the Shire Hall, many private dwellings and numerous bridges. He was highly respected, as he was well known for the good work he put into all he had to do with. He also took numerous contracts in the Melton Shire, and was also employed by the Shire as Clerk of Works. He was a most conscious man. In his day he took a prominent part in all public affairs, and was a leading spirit in the old school Board. He was one of the pioneers of the Melton Rechabite Tent. He was one of the earliest workers and supporters of the Melton Presbyterian Church, of which he was an elder, and for a great number of years, its Sunday School Superintendent and Teacher. He also lead the singing for many years before the days of the organ, as he had a splendid voice, and could sing his old Scotch songs and hymns up to within six months of his death. For the past five years he has resided with one of his daughters at north Preston, where he died. He had good health up to within six months of his death and could well remember all the early happenings at Melton and surrounding districts. There are five daughters and one living son:- Margaret Mrs. Walter Wyatt Twose of Burnley Elizabeth Mrs George Shebler of Brunswick Georgina Mrs Jack Sinclair Isabel Mrs H Knight of North Preston Jane Mrs William Gibson of Warragul John W. of Fremantle - Western Australia Letter from Margaret to the Melton Presbyterian Churchchurches, local architecture

John Whan was born in Carlton of Irish parents and moved with them to Wodonga by bullock dray at the age of 12. After completing his education in Wodonga, John became manager of McLean Brothers and Rigg branch store in Sydney Street, Wodonga for a number of years after which he bought the business and operated Whan’s General Store in Sydney Road, Wodonga which at its peak employed his six children. John Whan was Wodonga Shire Councillor for 15 years, including a term as Shire President in 1904-5. He was also Chairman of the Wodonga Water Trust when it built the water tower in 1922 – 23. He had many other community involvements including the School board and the Library Committee, served as an honorary justice and Deputy Coroner. secretary of the Wodonga branch of the I.O.O.F., and the Wodonga Cemetery Trust and the Masonic Lodge. He was a foundation member of the Presbyterian Church in Wodonga. He died on 10 October 1933. After his death, Whan's store was operated by John's son Francis William Whan who was born in Wodonga on 1 September 1901. He also served the community as a Justice of the Peace and Magostrate. Frank was a caring gentleman who looked after many during the difficult times of the Depression and World War 11. He continued to provide outstanding service to the Wodonga community. Frank was a dedicated member of the Presbyterian Church. The Whan General Store was purchased by Lincoln and Butterworth in 1945 and Francis and his family moved to Queensland He passed away in Lismore, NSW on 24 December 1975.These photographs represent the business of a prominent Wodonga family and community member.3 black and white photographs showing the Whan store in Wodonga at various stages in its developmentwodonga businesses, whan's store, whan family

Colonel Sir Alfred Kemsley's reply to the opening speech delivered by Lieutenant General Sir Phillip Bennett KBE, AO, DSO when he unveiled the Memorial Plaque and opened the Donovan Joynt VC Club at Puckapunyal on 23 March 1983. Sir Alfred talks about his long friendship with Donovan Joynt, beginning with the battle in France in which Joynt won his VC, and acknowledging the difficulty he had in persuading Joynt to be memorialised by this project at Puckapunyal. He also cited Joynt's involvement with Legacy, which as a foundation member and an early Melbourne Legacy President himself Kemsley would have been aware. Together with his friend Donovan Joynt, Kemsley became one of the most committed advocates for the creation of a Shrine of Remembrance on St Kilda Road as a 'worthy' memorial to Victoria’s 'unparalleled efforts during the Great War'. He played an active role in the defeat of a counter-proposal for an Anzac Square in Spring Street. In 1938 Kemsley was appointed to the trust established to administer the Shrine, later serving as its deputy-chairman (1952) and chairman (1978-84).Not only was the opening performed by the Chief of General Staff, Lt Gen Sir Phillip Bennet, the response by such an illustrious Australian as Col Sir Alfred Kemsley is evidence of the high regard in which Donovan Joynt was held.3 x photocopied typed sheets, black on whiteMinor corrections in blue biro.donovan joynt, memorial

Jack Fogarty was made a Life Member of the R.S.L in 1957. He joined the league in 1920 and was one of the original members when the Wangaratta Sub-Branch affiliated with Anzac House in 1929. He was elected to the committee in 1940, was Senior Vice Present in 1949 and President in 1957-8. Jack was also the Foundation President of the R.S.L. Club. He was chairman of the 34th District Board in 1956-57 and was a delegate for many years.Timber framed photograph of male in suit.JACK FOGARTY jack fogarty, life member wangaratta rsl

This laundry basket was made by Mr Walter Bullock helped by his son John at his workshop behind his house at No 35 High Street, Wodonga. This business was known as "Cantetex" and was given as a wedding present to Colin and Jennifer Hore in 1959. Mr Bullock passed away in Wodonga on 20 November 1973. Colin Hore is the son of Jack Hore, a very prominent member of the Wodonga Community. Jack Hore was awarded the Order of the British Empire, MBE in January 1962 for service as a Councillor of the Wodonga Shire Council. He held a Council seat continuously for 32 years, including eight terms as President. He also served two terms as Chairman of the Wodonga District Hospital Board 1961-62, having been a member of the board since 1954. He held a seat on the Victorian Country Fire Authority for many years until his death in 1970, having been a member of Wodonga Urban Fire Brigade since 1940. Jack played football with Wodonga for 14 years and coached the team to premiership honours in the Chiltern and District League in 1926. He was club treasurer from 1926 to 1940. Jack was also a Foundation member of Wodonga Show Society.This item is significant because it belonged to a member of a prominent Wodonga family and was manufactured in Wodonga.A laundry basket made from rattan cane work. The lid is cover in blue and white textile.walter bullock, cane furniiture, jack hore mbe

This service was to dedicate a Memorial to Australian & British Servicemen who died at Sandakan and Ranau, North Borneo 1942 - 1945. It was unveiled at Strathdale Park Bendigo on 9.4.1995. The Official Party were; Mr Peter Ross Edwards AM, Chief Commissioner The City of Greater Bendigo, Mr J.S. Millner AM, Chairman The Sandakan Memorial Foundation. The Requiem was read by Father John Brendan Rogers OFM. Unveiling the Memorial by, Mr Peter Ross Edwards AM. Dedication of the Memorial by; Father John Brendan Rogers OFM, Chaplain 8th Division Sandakan and Kuching, Chaplain Gary Kenney, Australian Army. Laying of the wreaths, Wreath Marshalls supplied by Bendigo RSL Sub Branch, Australian Army Band Melbourne. The ODE was read by; President Bendigo RSL Mr Cliff Clohesy. The Catalflaque Party was supplied by; Army School of Survey Regiment Bendigo.Pamphlet off white colour, A4 folded making 8 pages total, all print in black, one staple central holding together.On the front, "The Sandakan Memorial Foundation, Strathdale Park Bendigo 9 April 1995"brsl, smirsl, sandakan, strathdale

Framed portrait of David Robertson who was the first President of the Association for the Advancement of the Blind, from 1895-1899. It is part of a series of paintings commissioned by the VAF Board to commemorate the work of past presidents of the organisation. Mr Robertson sits with his hands resting upon a wooden cane. He is wearing dark spectacles, a gray suit and waistcoat, white shirt with starched collar and pleated front, and a red and blue striped necktie. On his left lapel is a blue and red medal. David Robertson was educated at the Royal Victorian Institute for the Blind and was trained as a basket maker. He was one of eight foundation members of the Association for the Advancement of the Blind (now Vision Australia Foundation ) which was formed in 1895 in order to encourage blind people to manage their own affairs and build their self esteem. He was appointed the inaugural president and served as such from 1895 to 1899 and again in 1913 as well as acting as vice president from 1900 to 1902 and in 1911 and 1915. Known as a level headed and wise peacemaker he was elected chairman of the first interstate conference of blind people, which took place in Melbourne in 1913. From this evolved the Federal Council of Organizations of the Blind, which undertook to consider all matters affecting blind people. 1 art original in gold frameThe plaque at the base of the painting reads 'David Robertson / Inaugural President of / Association for Advancement of the Blind'.david robertson, association for the advancement of the blind

Tarax annual reports 1961 and 1963. 1961: White booklet, gold print, on front cover: Tarax, Tarax Drinks Holdings Limited, 3rd Annual Report Year ended 30th June 1961' Inside front cover 'In memoriam. In grateful memory of George Albert Pethard who was associated with the foundation of this business in 1899 and who became the first Chairman of Directors of Tarax Drinks Holdings Ltd in 1958. He died September 20, 1961' 1963: Photo of soft drink production line on front cover ' Tarax Drinks Holdings Limited, 5th Annual Report Year ended 30th June 1963. Three newspaper clippings related to falling profits in the Tarax business for the period covered in report enclosed in booklet.tarax, annual report

"The Board, Tilly Aston Customer Council and Staff acknowledge and record for posterity the outstanding service given to blind and vision impaired people in Victoria. This exceptional contribution was made in a selfless and warmhearted manner and continues Vision Australia's tradition of caring and sharing. Inherent in the many attributes displayed were the admirable qualities of leadership, loyalty, consistency of purpose, and a great generosity of spirit. In recognition of this distinguished service we now pay tribute to and honour Neil and Elizabeth Maxwell in the presentation of the John Wilson Award on 6th October 2000." Signed by John Cook - Chief Executive Officer, ? Chairman, Tilly Aston Customer Council and Malcolm Daubney, President.1 white A3 page with blue border around edgevision australia foundation, neil maxwell, elizabeth maxwell

The silver trowel was used for the laying of the foundation stone of the Ballarat Old Colonists' Hall. It was donated to the Old Colonists' Associaiton in 1906. The Old Colonists' Association minutes noted 'Mrs Murray handed to the Secretary the silver trowel presented to the late President on the occasion of the laying of the foundation stone of the Hall.' The silver trowel was used for the laying of the foundation stone of the Ballarat Old Colonists' Hall. It was donated to the Old Colonists' Associaiton in 1906. The Old Colonists' Association minutes noted 'Mrs Murray handed to the Secretary the silver trowel presented to the late President on the occasion of the laying of the foundation stone of the Hall.' "THE OLD COLONISTS' HALL. The foundation-stone of the building to be erected by the Old Identities’ Association, in Lydiard street, was next laid with the usual ceremonies. This was immediately adjoining the foundation-stone of the Mining Exchange building. Mr J. Graham presented Mr Murray with a silver trowel, bearing the following inscription:—“ Queen Victoria’s Jubilee. Presented to J. P. Murray, Esq., president of the Old Colonists’ Association, on the occasion of his laying the foundation stone of their new hall, Ballarat, 21st June, 1887.” Mr Graham said he thought the pioneers of such a city were quite right in erecting a building that would be a home for them while they lived, and a memorial of them when they were no more. Mr J. Fraser, secretary, read the followin'- report:— “Mr Chairman, ladies, and gentlemen,—The bottle about to be deposited under this foundation contains documents in which are written particulars of the founding of the Old Colonists' Association at Ballarat; its financial and numerical position at the present time, the names of its officers and committee of management for the current term: a complete list of the names of its members, a copy of the rules and regulations of the association: copies of The Star, Evening Star, Courier, and Ballarat Advertiser newspapers, programme of to-day's proceedings as far as they relate to the laying of the foundation-stone, together with a brief summary of the aims and objects of this philanthropic institution. That the nature of these objects are considered worthy of encouragement and support is amply proved when we see on the Association's roll of membership the names of so many of our most prominent citizens and public men, "and from the fact that the Government of the colony have recognised the just claim of the old colonists'of Ballarat to be placed in possession of this valuable and central site, upon which to erect a building that will, be a credit to them and an ornament to the city, and which will enable them to still further extend the sphere of their benevolence and usefulness iu this district. The following is a copy of the signed and sealed memorial document:—*The foundation-stone of the hall of the Old Colonists’ Association of Ballarat; was laid on Her Majesty Queen Victoria's Jubilee Day,- Tuesday, 21st June, 1887, by John Paul Murray, Esq., J.P., president of the association. Under the foundation stone is deposited a copy of the constitution and rules of the association, the names of the officers, and a complete list of the names of ail the members to date; also a copy each of The Star, Courier, Evening Post, and the Advertiser, local newspapers. At this date the association numbers 319 members—accumulated funds, £203 10s 3d. The land upon which the hall is to he erected was granted by the Government to the association for that, purpose. (Signed) John P. Murray, President; W. B. Perry, Samuel Delpratt, Vice-presidents; Daniel Fern, Treasurer; John Fraser, Secretary. Committee—J. W. Graham, J. W. Lee, James M'Merkin, Andrew Lister, James Ward. Trustees—J. W. Graham, Wm. Irwin, John M'Cafferty ” Mr Murray said he was proud to lay the foundation stone of this building. The association was started in I883, and he might say they were a purely philanthropic institution. They formed an association whose creed was to assist one another in every shape and form. They had now 319 members, and were daily increasing in number.-. They were very fairly off as regarded their financial position. With respect to the objects of the association, they were to form a bond of brotherhood among those whose past experience in commercial or in mining pursuits so intimately associated them with the early history of the goldfields; men, to whose indomitable energy and perseverance Ballarat and other mining centres in the colony were so largely indebted for their development and commercial prosperity. Some of whose names were also closely identified with the memorable and sanguinary struggle 'for freedom and constitutional liberty in 1883. Their object was, further, to gather together within one fold those who survive those stirring times, to meet occasionally in friendly and social intercourse; to relieve their brethren who were overtaken by sickness or affliction; to provide the shelter of a home for those Pioneers of the goldfields whom the reverses of fortune had deprived of the means of procuring the comforts of life in their declining years; to assist the widow and succor the orphan; to mutually cheer and support each other in their temporary troubles and vicissitudes as they journeyed onward to the grave; and lastly, to tender a tribute of respect to the memory of a departed brother, by following his remains to their final resting place. Such were some of the principal objects of the “ Old Colonists' Association.” It was an institution for the good of their fellow man, and he hoped it would be successful, he hoped that the young people who came after them would appreciate what the Old Colonists had left them. He hoped they would all assist in making the institution one that would he worthy of the place. He would hand a small donation to the secretary, and hoped others would do the same. (Cheers.) The secretary, amid cheering, announced that the cheque handed over by Mr Murray was for £2O. Archdeacon Julius, who was asked to speak, said nothing could have been more fitting than the laying of the foundation-stone of the Old Identities’ Association on the Queen's Jubilee. They were a link between the past of 50 years gone by and today. Many of them remembered well enough perhaps the time when it took a man five and twenty minutes to light his pipe with tinder and steel, and when the small boys went, up the chimneys to sweep them. (Laughter.) They were building something now that people would look upon in years to come, and speak of in connection with the Old Colonists, if the young men were' half as good as their fathers they would be uncommon good fellows, and he did not think they would be. (Laughter, and interjection.) ''An old fellow said it was very true, and he knew it. (Laughter.) The Old Identities would agree with him to a man. (Laughter.) If the young men walked in their steps Ballarat in another 50 years would be 50 percent, better than it was now. There was not a man there that wished that more strongly, than 'he’ did. The Old Identities were laying this stone on the jubilee day of Her Majesty, and there never sat on the throne a worthier or nobler Queen than she who held her jubilee that day. There was not a man present, whatever his views of government may be, who did not say “God bless our Queen.” (Cheers.) The proceedings closed with the singing of the National Anthem and cheers for the Queen. (Ballarat Star, 23 June 1887)Silver trowel used during the laying of a foundation Stone for the Ballarat Old Colonists' Association building in Lydiard Street North, Ballarat.ballarat old colonists' association, ballarat old colonists' club, trowel, silver trowel, foundation stone, mrs j. murray, william bennett, j. fraser, john murray, w. lee, william irwin, john m'cafferty, john mccafferty