Photograph of a large group of boys playing tug of war on beach. From the inscription it was at Somers Camp in January 1979. Melbourne Legacy provided camps for junior legatees. It started with outings to the property of Legacy founder, Legatee Stan Savige, who had a place in Balnarring. Permanent camp buildings were built and with an association with Lord Somers (Governor of Victoria) it was called Somers Camp. The camps gave the children an opportunity of a summer beach holiday with other Legacy children.A record of Junior Legatees enjoying an outing or a camp.Black and white photo of children playing tug of war on a beach January 1979."Jan 79" in blue pen on reverse. Stamped "Copyright / The Herald and Weekly Times" in blue ink. Stamped "The Property of Melbourne Legacy" in purple ink on reverse.somers camp, camp, junior legatee outing, beach

A photo of 8 boys in a camp kitchen cleaning up after a meal. From the inscriptions it is Somers Camp in January 1968. Melbourne Legacy provided camps for junior legatees - the children of deceased servicemen. It started with outings to the property of Legacy founder, Legatee Stan Savige, who had a place in Balnarring. Permanent camp buildings were built and with an association with Lord Somers (Governor of Victoria) it was called Somers Camp. The camps gave the children an opportunity of a summer beach holiday with other Legacy children. It came from a Legacy envelope marked "P6 Junior Legatee Camps and Hols" in red pen, and dated Jan 1977 in pencil. The contents will be items 00418 to 00425. A record of Junior Legatee camps.Black and white photo of boys cleaning up the camp kitchen.Legacy P6 in blue pen. Stamped "The Property of Melbourne Legacy" and 19 Jan 1968 in purple ink. Stamped "Copyright Herald and Weekly Times" in blue ink. Paper label typed in black ink "(k) After a 'dip in the briny' and a big meal, even washing up the dishes is fun for these country Junior Legatees at our Somers Camp." Also "K" underlined twice in black texta.somers camp, junior legatee outing, kitchens

A photo of boys in line receiving a meal at a camp at an unknown camp or date. It came from an envelope with other Camp photos of varying dates. The Legacy envelope was marked "P6 Junior Legatee Camps and Hols" in red pen, and dated Jan 1977 in pencil. The contents will be items 00418 to 00425. Melbourne Legacy arranged many events for Junior Legatees to experience. For many years a regular event was a two week camp at Somers Camp. It started in the 1930s with outings to the property of Legacy founder, Legatee Stan Savige, who had a place in Balnarring. Permanent camp buildings were built and with an association with Lord Somers (Governor of Victoria) it was called Somers Camp. The camps gave the children an opportunity of a summer beach holiday with other Legacy children.A record of Junior Legatee camps.Black and white photo of boys being fed at a camp.P6 / Legacy / 4 in blue pen. Stamped "Copyright Herald and Weekly Times" in blue ink. somers camp, junior legatee outing

A photo of 3 boys waving from kayaks in the water. It came from an envelope with other camp photos. It came from a Legacy envelope marked "P6 Junior Legatee Camps and Hols" in red pen, and dated Jan 1977 in pencil. The contents will be items 00418 to 00425. Melbourne Legacy provided camps for junior legatees - the children of deceased servicemen. It started with outings to the property of Legacy founder, Legatee Stan Savige, who had a place in Balnarring. Permanent camp buildings were built and with an association with Lord Somers (Governor of Victoria) it was called Somers Camp. The camps gave the children an opportunity of a summer beach holiday with other Legacy children.A record of Junior Legatee camps.Black and white photo of boys in kayaks.Stamped "The Property of Melbourne Legacy" in purple ink. Stamped "Copyright The Age" in blue ink. "Jan 1972" in blue ink and 4347 in pencil.somers camp, junior legatee outing, kayaks

A photo of 6 boys with a trolley of suitcases at Spencer Street Railway Station, Melbourne (since renamed Southern Cross Station). They have arrived from country towns to attend Legacy Somers Camp in January 1973. It came from an envelope with other camp photos. The Legacy envelope was marked "P6 Junior Legatee Camps and Hols" in red pen, and dated Jan 1977 in pencil. The envelope contents are items 00418 to 00425. Melbourne Legacy provided camps for junior legatees - the children of deceased servicemen. It started with outings to the property of Legacy founder, Legatee Stan Savige, who had a place in Balnarring. Permanent camp buildings were built and with an association with Lord Somers (Governor of Victoria) it was called Somers Camp. The camps gave the children an opportunity of a summer beach holiday with other Legacy children.A record of Junior Legatee camps and shows style of suitcase used for travelling in 1970s.Black and white photo of children with their suitcases at Spencer St station.Handwritten on the back "P6 Incoming Camps and Hols / Legacy" in blue pen. Stamped "The Property of Melbourne Legacy" in purple ink. Stamped "Copyright The Herald and Weekly Times" in blue ink. Green paper label says "Country Junior Legatees, having arrived at Spencer Street Railway Station, Melbourne, move on to Somers for fun and games at Legacy's recent annual Holiday Camp held in January 1973."somers camp, junior legatee outing, trains

A photo of a smiling girl wading in the ocean. It came from an envelope with other camp photos. Junior Legatees attended Somer's Camp over summer holidays organised by Melbourne Legacy. The newspaper article on 12 January 1977 says it was a day where junior legatees were treated to sailing activities by yachtsmen of Westernport. The boys were at Somers Camp and the girls had been holidaying in the Legacy Camp at Kew. The Legacy envelope was marked "P6 Junior Legatee Camps and Hols" in red pen, and dated Jan 1977 in pencil. The contents will be items 00418 to 00425. Melbourne Legacy provided camps for junior legatees - the children of deceased servicemen. It started with outings to the property of Legacy founder, Legatee Stan Savige, who had a place in Balnarring. Permanent camp buildings were built and with an association with Lord Somers (Governor of Victoria) it was called Somers Camp. The camps gave the children an opportunity of a summer beach holiday with other Legacy children.A record of Junior Legatee camps.Black and white photo of a girl at the beach.Handwritten on the back "Holiday Camp at Somers" in blue pen. Stamped "Melbourne Legacy" and "11 Jan 1977" in purple ink. Stamped "Copyright The Herald and Weekly Times" in blue ink. somers camp, junior legatee outing, beach

A photo of a teenager hanging out from sail boat in a harness. It came from an envelope with other camp photos. The newspaper article on 12 January 1977 says it was a day where junior legatees were treated to sailing activities by yachtsmen of Westernport. The boy was Wayne Cowards 15, of Morwell getting some practice on the trapeze of a Flying Dutchman. The boys were at Somers Camp and the girls had been holidaying in the Legacy Camp at Kew. The Legacy envelope was marked "P6 Junior Legatee Camps and Hols" in red pen, and dated Jan 1977 in pencil. The contents will be items 00418 to 00425. Melbourne Legacy provided camps for junior legatees - the children of deceased servicemen. It started with outings to the property of Legacy founder, Legatee Stan Savige, who had a place in Balnarring. Permanent camp buildings were built and with an association with Lord Somers (Governor of Victoria) it was called Somers Camp. The camps gave the children an opportunity of a summer beach holiday with other Legacy children.A record of Junior Legatee camps.Black and white photo of a youth leaning out of a small sailboat.Handwritten on back "Holiday Camp at Somers" in blue pen. Stamped "Melbourne Legacy" and "11 Jan 1977" in purple ink. Stamped "Copyright The Herald and Weekly Times" in blue ink. somers camp, junior legatee outing, boats

A photo of a large group of children crossing a bridge enroute to the beach. It came from an envelope with other camp photos. The Legacy envelope was marked "P6 Junior Legatee Camps and Hols" in red pen, and dated Jan 1977 in pencil. The contents will be items 00418 to 00425. Melbourne Legacy provides camps for junior legatees. The camps gave the children an opportunity of a summer beach holiday with other Legacy children. It started with outings to the property of Legacy founder, Legatee Stan Savige, who had a place in Balnarring. close to the beach. Permanent camp buildings were built in 1930. In 1930 Lord Somers (Governor of Victoria) also started a camp at a nearby property and the area was renamed Somers. Legacy Somers Camps continued intermittently at Stan's property until it was decided in 1951 to make other arrangements for holidays. A record of Junior Legatee camps.Black and white photo of children crossing a bridge at the beach.Handwritten on back "Jan 1979" in blue pen. Stamped "The property of Melbourne Legacy" in purple ink. Stamped "Copyright The Herald and Weekly Times" in blue ink. junior legatee outing, bridges, beach, somers camp

A photo of a large group of teenage boys and men from Big Camp, January 1970. Big camp was for older junior Legatees. One of the men appears to be Sir Rohan Delacombe, the Governor of Victoria and patron of Legacy (fourth from the left centre road). Melbourne Legacy provided camps for junior legatees - the children of deceased servicemen. It started with outings to the property of Legacy founder, Legatee Stan Savige, who had a place in Balnarring. Permanent camp buildings were built and with an association with Lord Somers (Governor of Victoria) it was called Somers Camp. The camps gave the children an opportunity of a summer beach holiday with other Legacy children. It came from an envelope with other Big camp photos. The Legacy envelope was marked "P5 Power House" in red pen, and Box 15 in blue pen. The contents will be items 00427 to 00430.A record of Junior Legatee camps.Black and white photo of Legatees and senior boys at Big Camp 1970.Front of photo has text over the photo: "Big Camp Jan___ 1970". On reverse "P5 Legacy / 1970 Big Camp" written in blue pen.somers camp, junior legatee outing, big camp

A photo of a large group of teenage boys and men from Big Camp, January 1971. Big camp was for older junior Legatees at Lord Somers Camp. One of the men is Sir Rohan Delacombe, the Governor of Victoria and patron of Legacy (sixth from the left). Melbourne Legacy provides camps for junior legatees. The camps gave the children an opportunity of a summer beach holiday with other Legacy children. It started with camps on the property of Legacy founder, Legatee Stan Savige, who had a place in Balnarring, close to the beach. Permanent camp buildings were built in 1930. In 1930 Lord Somers (Governor of Victoria) also started a camp at a nearby property and the area was renamed Somers. Legacy Somers Camps continued intermittently at Stan's property until it was decided in 1951 to make other arrangements for holidays. Including at two other camps in the Somers area: Lord Somers Camp and the Somers School Camp (owned by the Education Department). It came from an envelope with other Big camp photos. The Legacy envelope was marked "P5 Power House" in red pen, and Box 15 in blue pen. The contents will be items 00427 to 00430.A record of Junior Legatee camps.Black and white photo of Legatees and senior boys at Big Camp 1971.Front of photo has text over the photo: "Big Camp Jan 9 - 16 1971". On reverse "P5 Legacy" written in blue pen.somers camp, junior legatee outing, big camp

A photo of a large group of teenage boys and men from Big Camp, January 1972. Big camp was for older junior Legatees at Lord Somers Camp. One of the men is Sir Rohan Delacombe, the Governor of Victoria and patron of Legacy (seated centre). Melbourne Legacy provides camps for junior legatees. The camps gave the children an opportunity of a summer beach holiday with other Legacy children. It started with camps on the property of Legacy founder, Legatee Stan Savige, who had a place in Balnarring, close to the beach. Permanent camp buildings were built in 1930. In 1930 Lord Somers (Governor of Victoria) also started a camp at a nearby property and the area was renamed Somers. Legacy Somers Camps continued intermittently at Stan's property until it was decided in 1951 to make other arrangements for holidays. Including at two other camps in the Somers area: Lord Somers Camp and the Somers School Camp (owned by the Education Department). It came from an envelope with other Big camp photos. The Legacy envelope was marked "P5 Power House" in red pen, and Box 15 in blue pen. The contents will be items 00427 to 00430.A record of Junior Legatee camps.Black and white photo of Legatees and senior boys at Big Camp 1972On reverse "P5 Legacy 20/1/72" written in blue pen.somers camp, junior legatee outing, big camp, lord somers camp

A photo of a large group of teenage boys and men from Big Camp, January 1974. Big camp was for older junior Legatees at Lord Somers Camp. Melbourne Legacy provides camps for junior legatees. The camps gave the children an opportunity of a summer beach holiday with other Legacy children. It started with camps on the property of Legacy founder, Legatee Stan Savige, who had a place in Balnarring, close to the beach. Permanent camp buildings were built in 1930. In 1930 Lord Somers (Governor of Victoria) also started a camp at a nearby property and the area was renamed Somers. Legacy Somers Camps continued intermittently at Stan's property until it was decided in 1951 to make other arrangements for holidays. Including two other camps in the Somers area: Lord Somers Camp and the Somers School Camp (owned by the Education Department). It came from an envelope with other Big camp photos. The Legacy envelope was marked "P5 Power House" in red pen, and Box 15 in blue pen. The contents will be items 00427 to 00430. A record of Junior Legatee camps.Black and white photo of Legatees and senior boys at Big Camp 1974On reverse "P5 Legacy" written in blue pen, and "second week Lord Somers Camp / Jan 19 - 26 1974" in pencil.somers camp, junior legatee outing, big camp, lord somers camp

An article from a magazine about Lord Somers Camp published in the Peninsula Essence magazine in August 2022. Legacy has provided camps for Junior Legatees for many years. It started in the early years when Legacy organised outings to the property of Legacy founder, Legatee Stan Savige, who had a place close to the beach. In later years children went to camps around Victoria. Occasionally it was to Lord Somers Camp in Somers.A record of the formation of Lord Somers Camp in the area early Legatees held camps.White pages x 7 of an article about Somers Camp from the Peninsula Essence magazine.somers, lord somers

After the death of Stan Savige this address was given at the Canberra Conference in October 1954. It is tribute to his life. Sir Stanley Savige KBE : Commemorative Address Federal Conference of Legacy Clubs, Canberra : October 1954. On the 15th of May this year Legacy learned to its enduring sorrow of the death of its Founder, Lieut. General Stanley George Savige KBE, CB, CBE, DSO, MC, ED, for more than 30 years affectionately known to us all as Legatee Stan Savige. He was the embodiment of all those things for which Legacy stands, and each one of us who knew him and worked with him feels a great and abiding sense of personal loss. It is proper, therefore, that those of us at this Conference, the first after his passing, representative of Legacy throughout the Commonwealth, and comprising so many who were his friends, so many who knew the depth of his love for Legacy, should acknowledge our debt to our Founder and ensure, so far as we may, that the inspiration of his life and work in this Cause shall not be lost to those who follow after. It was not ordained that Stanley George Savige - should enjoy a long life, but it was to prove a life of outstanding service. Born at Morwell in Victoria some 63 years ago, he received with his brothers and sisters such education as was then available to a lad in a mining district. He had no particular opportunities of advancement, but from his early days he cherished a strong ambition to make a success of his life, and with this in view he lost no opportunity of adding to his knowledge. Always a lover of the open country, a good bushman and a fine shot, he became as a young man, a Scoutmaster with a keen following of boys. Even in those early days he attracted youth and showed undoubted promise of the quality of leadership which later was to make him famous. Opportunity came with the first World War, and he took his place as a private soldier in the original 24th Battalion AIF. Followed Gallipoli and Anzac where his marksmanship and bush craft stood him in good stead. Conscious that his early training was not sufficient to secure the promotion he desired, he set himself to enlarge it. Only a man of fine fibre and rare determination could apply himself to study on that war torn Peninsula, where our men, hitherto untested, suffered every known hardship and no man knew, from hour to hour, whether he would survive. But Savige achieved it. Himself then a Corporal he found another Corporal who was a former Schoolmaster and learned from him all that he had to teach. Savige was on his way. He was commissioned on the Field and allotted the heroic task of leading the last party off that desperate coast during the famous evacuation. In France he became the Adjutant of his Battalion and one of the best known officers in the 6th Brigade. He won the Military Cross and was mentioned in despatches. Early in 1918 he received a signal distinction, He was included in a small but distinguished band of Officers and Non-Commissioned Officers from the British and Dominion Forces most carefully selected for individual courage and proved qualities of leadership, and was sent to Persia, under the command of Major-General Dunsterville, Kipling’s famous Stalky, to assist and mobilise the friendly tribes with a view to protecting the road to India, left wide open by the withdrawal of Russia. The story of the Dunsterforce, its suffering and achievements in the face of incredible hardships and difficulties, was later to be told by Savige in his book “Stalky’s Forlorn Hope”. He emerged, finally, unscathed, despite his active participation in several of the bloodiest battles of all time, with the rank of Captain and a DSO and MC to his credit, to say nothing of three mentions in despatches. In later years, further decorations were to be conferred upon him, but I believe he valued none of these so highly as his awards for outstanding personal bravery won in the Field when he was an Officer of comparatively junior rank. Such was the man who in August 1923, at the instance of his former Commander, Major-General Sir John Gellibrand, gathered around him a handful of men who had fought and laughed with him over four well remembered years. This small band adopted the name of “Legacy”, but its purpose then was, in the main, to assist in safeguarding the interests of ex-servicemen in this country. Worthy although the case undoubtedly was, the conception and ideal which was to distinguish Legacy from all kindred post-war movements did not emerge until two years later. The torch had not been lit. Legacy had not yet found its soul. What has been achieved since then is known to you all. The Legacy ideal, unique in its conception, with no known counterpart elsewhere, is now accepted, welcomed and honoured throughout the Commonwealth and abroad. But in those early days the achievements of our Founder in the face of all manner of difficulties and frustrations are worthy of our lasting memory and thankfulness. As the source of every river lies in the hills, so must the inspiration from which stems a great conceptions of service to one’s fellow men be lofty and above reproach. Savige was the embodiment of this new expression of comradeship, as he was the central figure and driving force of the little group that sponsored it. But for his zeal, his faith and determination, it is likely that the flame, newly kindled, might have flickered and died. The idea of men returned from active service pledging for the sake of their former comradeship, their personal assistance to the widows, and above all, to the children of those who had fought beside them and paid the full price of War, was so completely new and unexpected that it was by no means readily accepted. There were no funds, no precedents to guide the new adventurers, only the clear bright flame of an ideal just envisaged, and the conviction that the Cause was unassailable. Nor were there lacking many who said that the community held no place for Legacy, that it was born of sentiment only, and would quickly pass. The scoffers are gone and one since forgotten, but the torch remains and burns brighter than ever. Down the years of Legacy there are many names deserving of honour, men from all States and all stations of life, but no name stands out in such clear and bold relief as does the name of our Founder. By his works you shall know him. He was, in truth, the Soul of Legacy. He sought no office and preferred to work as one of the team. Six years went by before he accepted the Presidency of Melbourne Club, and then only because his fellows would book no further delay. “The Spirit of Legacy is Service” - so runs the Charter, and that was Savige’s Creed. By virtue of his attainments he was called upon to take a leading part in the administration of Legacy, first within his own club and later, as Chairman of the Co-ordinating Council of Legacy in Australia. But always it was the essentially human character of the work which enthralled and upheld him, and the tasks which gave him most joy were those which brought him into close personal contact with the youngsters and their home life. Like their elders they recognised his goodwill and his leadership and responded to it. It was Savige who made possible the first camps held for the boys and girls by Melbourne Club. These were erected on his own seaside property, and were originally conducted under his personal direction and largely with the aid of funds he had collected. There was hardly an important post in his own Club that Savige did not at some time occupy and adorn. He was happiest in the company of those men with whom he had served in the field, and cherished always the comradeship born of active service which is of the essence of Legacy. He was a man of strong convictions but attentive always to another’s point of view. As a Legatee he played a leading part in bringing hope and encouragement to many a mother on whom the whole responsibility of a young family had been suddenly and tragically laid; in the attainment of the ambitions of many an orphan child, which not so long since had seemed to him or her to be mere dreams, impossible of realisation. Comfort for the bereaved, new hope for the children’s physical and educational welfare, assistance with the home, aid for the sick, money for the needy and a new courage to face a future that hitherto had held no promise, all these facets of Legacy endeavour combine to present a living and enduring memorial to the man we honour as our Founder today. Between the two World Wars in addition to establishing himself successfully in civilian life and answering the constant calls of Legacy on his energy and time, Savige maintained an active association with the Army. He was convinced that a Second AIF would one day be urgently called upon, and as a Battalion Commander he spared no effort to train the Officers under his charge during the uneasy years of peace for the trial that he felt must come. These men have all subsequently had distinguished military careers, their names are well known and many of the serve in Legacy today. When the second crisis came, Savige himself was one of the first to offer, and although his youth was spent, he proudly carried the number VX13 throughout the terrible years that followed. This time he was to command, first the 17th Australian Infantry Brigade in the first action of the Second AIF against the enemy at Barida, and subsequently at Tobruk and Derna - all famous names now. It was his patrols which gave the warning - unheeded at the time - that Rommel’s reinforcements were reaching North Africa far earlier than was expected. Then followed the grim days of Greece and Crete when the fine qualities of his leadership were put to the utmost test. I have been told by those who were closest to him it was typical of Savige that when his convoys were on the move back and were being blasted from the air by the unopposed Luftwaffe, he should sit by the side of the open road, wearing his red banded cap, to steady the morale of men who had then no chance of hitting back at the enemy. Unorthodox no doubt, but here was a man indeed. Throughout the whole campaign and later when he commended the 3rd division in New Guinea and later still when with the rank of Lieutenant-General he became a Corps Commander in New Guinea and Bouganville, it was at all times characteristic of him that he should see for himself the situation in the forward areas. He dealt personally with his subordinate commanders whenever it was possible to do so. No one says his G.S.O. 1. understood better than he did the importance of front line troops seeing their G.O.C. frequently, and knowing that he was aware of and prepared to share their hardships and dangers. He took many risks that he should not have taken, exhausted himself physically and mentally times without number, and considered himself not at all in order to secure the success of his operations. Finally, in Bouganville, he brought his campaign to a victorious conclusion and accepted the personal surrender of the Japanese Commander. Savige is known as one of Australia’s most human military leaders, but let no one believe that he did not ask and receive the utmost of his men. He trained them in a hard school but he was ever conscious of their needs and observant and thoughtful of their welfare. Fearless and untiring under conditions which brought younger men down, he asked nothing that he was not himself prepared to give and do. The close of the Second World War left him with the same brave heart; but a vitality greatly impaired. He was called up again and again to perform important national tasks, notably that of Co-ordinator of Demobilisation and Dispersal. But his interest in Legacy never flagged it was in fact more personal than ever, for under his command many junior legatees, sons of former comrades had proved themselves worthy of their Fathers in war and in peace. In the bearing and achievements of the young men of the Second A.I.F. he took a particular and justifiable pride. He applied himself to the Extension of Legacy to areas where it had not previously been practicable to operate. His record of service and close personal contact with the men of both wars made him a most welcome pioneer and many new Clubs and Groups resulted from his efforts. He founded, and I doubt whether any one else could have done so, the Club in the great Capital of our Empire. His reputation and obvious sincerity surmounted obstacles that might well have daunted lesser man. Legacy’s debt to him visibly increased. But he was ever a simple man, with a great love and understanding of his fellow men and a true Legatee at heart. Much that he did will never be known or recognised, save by those who benefitted. His service in Legacy ranged from the humble kitchen of cottage and farm to our representation in Westminster Abbey itself. A knighthood set the seal upon an outstanding career. None the less when upon the death of Field Marshall Sir Thomas Blamey, Lieut. General Sir Stanley Savige became the Patron of the Melbourne Club, he retained at his own express desire, the title of Legatee Savige, and when on that final day we bade him farewell, when the Flags he had served so well were lowered and the guns which had formed a grim final salute, it was apparent to all who had eyes to see that this great and simple man had won such a place in the hearts and affection of his fellow country men as is given to few men indeed. From the packed Cathedral, escorted by his fellow Generals, followed by men of his own Units, by Legatees and a great company of others who had cause to honour and esteem him, he made his last journey. But that is not the end. His voice and presence are lost to us but his memory and inspiration must ever remain. As he has bequeathed to the National War Memorial yonder his diaries, records and battle plans, so he has bequeathed to us his fellow Legatees his greatest achievement and his trust, Legacy itself. Never was the Torch passed by worthier hands. Now it is ours to hold it high. Whatever material memorial the future many hold for him, Legacy owes its Founder a livelier recompense. It is within our power to implement what I believe to be his greatest wish, that Legacy and its ideal of comradeship and service shall flourish and endure. Let each one of us then resolve that we shall, within our Clubs, in all tasks to which we are assigned, both great and small, keep in our minds the life and spirit of Stanley George Savige, so that we may be proud at all times to say of Legacy to those who follow after - “If you would see his memorial - Look around you”.The tribute to Stanley Savige shows how greatly he was regarded by the Legatees.Off white quarto paper with black type, address given about Stan Savige to the Canberra Conference, x 12 pages.savige, speech, obituary

A document written in 1976 by Legatee Frank Meldrum containing his account of the start of Legacy. He was responding to a request for information about the history of Legacy that the archive committee was collating. He mentions several key members by name and what they achieved. As with other similar accounts he mentions the original objective was to see diggers placed in employment. When two years later the focus changed to the families 'thanks to Frank Doolan Legacy found its SOUL'. Many other accounts have also used the term 'soul' when referring to Frank's suggestion. It seems many Legatees had been quietly helping families of their comrades; Frank 'said he was helping a widow with two children of an old army mate. It was discovered that several of the Board were doing the same. Stan Savige had taken over the care of his widowed sister and her two boys, whose father had died at Passchendale. I had a widow with two little ones whose father was one of my best mates at Anzac. He died of flu virus after returning to Australia. I think eleven members of the Board or Committees were already giving similar service. Frank's proposal caught on immediately. Legacy had found its Soul!' 'Harold Peters started his Lit and Debating Class and I was asked by Stan to find a PT instructor', Frank Meldrum asked for the 'Billy' Williams to helped, and a cobber from Anzac, Louis Vavjanezki, to take on boxing and wrestling classes. 'All committees carried their own expenses amongst themselves - nothing was charged to JLC. Hugh Brain started the Education Committee and was given a donation, I think of $1000 (a heck of a lot in those days) by the Ballieu Bros.' He also mentions 'For the first 5-10 years practically all administrative costs were borne by the members.' 'Stan Savige was, of course a tremendous driving force in all the work for the Juniors. He put on a Christmas Camp at Balnarring on his own property and was Camp Commandant and Camp Cook.' Legatee Keith Mitchell helped Frank Meldrum in doing a dental examination of all children in the classes and then Frank did the necessary treatments in his rooms. When it was known they were treating over 400 children and their mums, Syd Birrell then got the board to co-opt two more dentists into the Club and form a Dental Clinic. Syd Birrell also started a Legal Committee to provide free legal advice. 'Committees quietly vied with each other to give better services to the Juniors and their mums. It was an atmosphere that was unbelievably happy - SERVCE WITHOUT SELF'. He mentions picnics, including one at Grimwade house - photos are at 01382 - where legatees were dressed up. The first demonstration was held in the 'Playhouse, just over Princes Bridge and was a great success.' Aaron Beattie and Mrs Gilles were mentioned. The notation H33 in red pen shows that it was part of the archive project that was trying to capture the history of Legacy. A summary of the first fifty years of Legacy written by a key founding member.White foolscap paper with black type x 6 pages of Frank Meldrum's account of Legacy's history dated 6 March 1976.Handwritten H33 in red pen and 'from Meldrum' in blue pen on first page. Stamped 'COPY ONLY' in purple ink.history, founding legatee, frank meldrum

Photograph of General Sir John Gellibrand and L/- Stan Savige (at far right) at an unknown event that appears to be also attended by a mayor. From Wikipedia: Major General Sir John Gellibrand, KCB, DSO & Bar (5 December 1872 – 3 June 1945) was a senior Australian Army officer in the First World War, Chief Commissioner of the Victoria Police from 1920 to 1922, and a member of the Australian House of Representatives, representing the Tasmanian Division of Denison for the Nationalist Party from 1925 to 1928. Concerned about the plight of fellow ex-servicemen, whose businesses were often failing, Gellibrand banded together with like-minded individuals to form the Hobart Remembrance Club. This organisation aimed to support ex-servicemen by providing employment and support for their businesses. The Hobart Club inspired the formation of Legacy Australia in Melbourne, which over time became a national movement, expanding its scope to the care of ex-servicemen's widows and their families. Sir John Gellibrand is considered to have influenced Stanley Savige to commence the process to form Legacy in September 1923. Melbourne was the first Legacy club to form.Black and white photo of General Sir John Gellibrand.Handwritten on the reverse: 'General Sir John Gellibrand. SGS at rear' in blue pen. Also '545' in pencil. Stamped with copyright of The Leader in red ink, and 'Property of Melbourne Legacy. Please return this correspondence to Executive Officer' in purple ink.sir john gellibrand, remembrance club

A black and white photo of Legatee Stanley Savige. Legatee Savige was the key founder of Legacy in 1923. In the early years, Legacy organised outings to the property of Legacy founder, Legatee Stan Savige, who had a place in Balnarring close to the beach. This photo was with a group of photos from around the 1930s from the early days of Legacy, including cricket team, football team, and camps at Balnarring/Somers (saved as 01915 to 01934).Legatee Savige was an important figure in Legacy's history and his property at Balnarring became very important for Legacy providing outings and camps for junior legatees. This is an early photo of him. Black and white photo of Legatee Savige.stan savige, founding legatees

A black and white photo of Legatee Stanley Savige and four others in swimwear standing on a beach. In the early years, Legacy organised outings to the property of Legacy founder, Legatee Stan Savige, who had a place in Balnarring close to the beach. Permanent camp buildings were built in 1930. In 1930 Lord Somers (Governor of Victoria) also started a camp at a nearby property and the area was renamed Somers. Legacy Somers Camps continued intermittently at Stan's property until it was decided in 1951 to make other arrangements for holidays. Legatee Savige was the key founder of Legacy in 1923. This photo was with other photos from the early days of Legacy, including cricket team, football team, and camps at Balnarring/Somers.Legatee Savige was an important figure in Legacy's history and his property at Balnarring became very important for Legacy providing outings and camps for junior legatees.Black and white photo of Legatee Savige with 4 others on a beach.Stamped 'Kodak print S 856' on back in grey ink.beach, swimwear, stan savige, legacy somers camp

A black and white photo of six boys on a beach. The labels identify Jack Suggett and Norm Smith. Likely to be a very early camp for junior legatees at Somers. In the early years, Legacy organised outings to the property of Legacy founder, Legatee Stan Savige, who had a place in Balnarring close to the beach. Permanent camp buildings were built in 1930. In 1930 Lord Somers (Governor of Victoria) also started a camp at a nearby property and the area was renamed Somers. Legacy Somers Camps continued intermittently at Stan's property until it was decided in 1951 to make other arrangements for holidays. Legatee Savige was the key founder of Legacy in 1923. This photo was with other photos from the early days of Legacy, including cricket team, football team, and camps at Balnarring/Somers.Legatee Savige's property at Balnarring became very important for Legacy providing outings and camps for junior legatees.Black and white photo x 2 of boys in swimwear on a beach.Handwritten on group of 6 boys says 'L R. + Jack Suggett + + + Norm Smith' in blue pen. Both have stamped '4 28' on back in grey ink, implying they were printed at the same time. Stamped 'Printed by Harringtons' in purple ink.beach, junior legatee outing, swimwear, norm smith, legacy somers camp

A black and white photo of men and boys all wearing cowboy style hats. The label implies it is the first Junior Legacy camp at Somers in 1926. Legacy was founded in 1923 so this is a very early photo. The label on the back says: "Extract from 'Legacy' by Claude Blatchford. At Christmas 1926, a camp for boys was held at Balnarring on the property of Legatee S G Savige. It is impossible to over-estimate the advantages and benefits these camps afford. An annual camp, under discipline must be regarded as conferring the very greatest benefits. The first camp in 1926 was for seven day and thirty two boys went under canvas. Seven tents were used, and tent commanders were appointed. The lads were rostered for duties and their time was otherwise taken up in swimming, fishing, shooting and cricket. Standing orders and daily routine orders were issued, and it is to the credit of the boys that the discipline was excellent." (Blatchford 1932). In the early years, Legacy organised outings to the property of Legacy founder, Legatee Stan Savige, who had a place in Balnarring close to the beach. Permanent camp buildings were built in 1930. In 1930 Lord Somers (Governor of Victoria) also started a camp at a nearby property and the area was renamed Somers. A very early photo of Legatees taking care of the decedents of their deceased comrades.Black and white photo of the 1926 Somers Camp mounted on brown card in a wooden frame under glass. Typed label says 'First Junior Legacy Camp Somers 1926'. Typed extract on reverse is a copy of text from Blatchford's book.camp, somers camp, junior legatee outing

A newsletter printed at Somer’s Camp in 1978. It reflects some of the activities the campers experienced. There was news of sporting events and winners of contests. Also a crossword and some cartoons. The authors are not identified but could be some of the junior Legatees. Legacy has provided camps for Junior Legatees for many years. It started in the early years when Legacy organised outings to the property of Legacy founder, Legatee Stan Savige, who had a place close to the beach. In later years children went to camps around Victoria. Occasionally it was to Lord Somers Camp in Somers.A record of the camp activities at Somers in 1978.Newsletter published at Somers Camp to highlight activities and attendees.Dated 28 January 1976 on second page.camp, lord somers camp, junior legatee outing

A newsletter printed at Somer’s Camp in 1977. It reflects some of the activities the campers experienced. There was news of sporting events and winners of contests. Also a crossword and some cartoons. The authors are not identified but could be some of the junior Legatees. Legacy has provided camps for junior Legatees for many years. It started in the early years when Legacy organised outings to the property of Legacy founder, Legatee Stan Savige, who had a place in Balnarring close to the beach. In later years children went to camps around Victoria. Occasionally it was to Lord Somers Camp in Somers. Some of the name mentioned in the text: Chaplain Charles Sligo, Fire officer David McPherson, Games director Peter Johnstone, PR Officer Les Phillips, Bursar Robin Kelly. Also section leaders: Keith Williamson, Peter Chapman, Fraser Zielinski, Andrew Russell, John Jones, Campbell Mathieson, John Higgins, Mark Lane. The editorial explains the aims of the camp. "Lord Somer's Camp sets out not so much to teach a method of life as to instil one by example. This may sound rather ominous, as though you are being brain washed - and perhaps in a way you are. The high-powered pressure which is put on you by Slush and by Group Leaders tries to do in less than a week what would take years by any other means. . . In fact what the pressure does achieve may be quite different for different people. . . Cooperation was discussed yesterday. Many of you have possibly already been forced to see that a group of people can achieve nothing unless they work together. Even after one day on the sports field you would realise tag in an event such as the tug-of-war you will never succeed unless every one works together in perfect harmony. . . The second ideal mentioned above was unselfishness. Nearly every problem in the civilised world today, whether it be war, social unrest, inflation, industrial strife it can be traced back to a selfish attitude on someone's part. An unselfish attitude is a very difficult thing to develop but once obtain can not only do good for the individual but for the whole community. Big Camp tries to establish this attitude on in the new participants at camp by the example of others.It is only when one realises that all the organisation of and running of this camp, and indeed of the whole PowerHouse Organisation, is on a voluntary, unpaid level that it impossible to gain some inkling of the extent of this unselfish example, to understand the amount of effort people will make to continue something they believe in." A record of the camp activities at Somers in 1978.Newsletter published at Somers Camp to highlight activities and attendees.Dated 18 January 1977 on second page.camp, junior legatee outing, lord somers camp

A photo of a large group of teenage boys and men from Big Camp, January 1970. Big camp was held at Lord Somers Camp for older youths. This is a large group, approximately 27 boys and 7 adults. Another item at 00427 also is labelled as 1970. Melbourne Legacy provides camps for junior legatees. The camps gave the children an opportunity of a summer beach holiday with other Legacy children. It started with camps on the property of Legacy founder, Legatee Stan Savige, who had a place in Balnarring, close to the beach. Permanent camp buildings were built in 1930. In 1930 Lord Somers (Governor of Victoria) also started a camp at a nearby property and the area was renamed Somers. Legacy Somers Camps continued intermittently at Stan's property until it was decided in 1951 to make other arrangements for holidays. Including two other camps in the Somers area: Lord Somers Camp and the Somers School Camp (owned by the Education Department).A record of Junior Legatees attending camps.Black and white photo of Legatees and senior boys at Big Camp 1970.Front of photo has typed text over the photo: "Big Camp Jan 10 - 17 1970". On reverse "D / Legacy" written in blue pen.junior legatee outing, big camp, lord somers camp