Alistair Knox Park, an oasis of peace and beauty. Covered under National Trust of Australia (Victoria) Landscape Significance and Heritage Overlay, Nillumbik Planning Scheme. Published: Nillumbik Now and Then /​ Marguerite Marshall 2008; photographs Alan King with Marguerite Marshall.; p173 It is hard to imagine that the Alistair Knox Park, an oasis of peace and beauty beside busy Main Road, Eltham, was once the township’s rubbish dump. It was only in the 1970s that the tip was transformed into this beautiful six hectare space, which later earned it a National Trust Landscape classification. Before its life as a dump, the area was used for small farms. Thanks largely to the foresight and efforts of local environmental builder Alistair Knox, the park was designed sympathetically with the character of the wider Eltham landscape. Then, appropriately, the park was named after Knox, who was an Eltham Shire Councillor from 1971 to 1975 and Shire President in 1975. The park designers were four major forces in the urban bush landscape garden –Knox, landscape designer Gordon Ford, artist Peter Glass and landscaper Ivan Stranger. The National Trust citation for the park, originally called Eltham Town Park, includes the Eltham railway trestle bridge and the Shillinglaw Cottage. The citation states ‘the semi-natural setting of the parkland provides a landscape which is evocative of the history of the area’. Manna Gums (Eucalyptus viminalis) and Candlebarks (Eucalyptus rubida) are significant features. Most of the park’s construction was directed by Bob Grant, Superintendent of the Parks and Gardens Department for the Eltham Shire Council. First plantings occurred in Arbour Week in 1973, then the lake and botanic area were completed in 1975, with Federal Government funding, and the toilet block in 1978. Bounded by the Eltham railway line, Panther Place, Main Road, Bridge and Susan Streets, the park is in a valley about a kilometre wide overlooked by steep hills at the east and west. The Diamond Creek flows through it and the picturesque historic timber trestle railway bridge edges the north. Informal plantings of Australian indigenous and native species in open and undulating grassed settings blend with the natural landscape of the Diamond Creek to the west. The bush-style plants, particularly around the creek, balance with open lawns, paths and a cascade flowing from a small lake to another below. A footbridge over the creek leads to the park’s west. The park includes an adventure playground and barbecue areas. The park stands on part of the land bought from the Crown in 1851 by Josiah Holloway, who subdivided it into allotments and which he called Little Eltham. Most of the land was subdivided into residential lots, but the creek valley, on which the park stands, was subdivided into farm-size lots, used mainly for orchards and grazing. One of the earliest owners was John Hicks Petty, who in 1874 bought a plot from Holloway. Other families who owned properties in that area, included Rees, Clark, Waterfall, Graham, Hill and Morant. In 1901 the railway was built through the area. Jock Read, an Eltham resident since around 1920, remembers several farms in the 1920s and ’30s that occupied the site of today’s park. A poultry farm, which extended from present day Panther Place, was owned by the Gahan family. Next to that farm was another for grazing cattle owned by Jack Carrucan. Beside this was land owned by John Lyon. A doctor lived beside this, and at the north-west corner of Bridge Street and Main Road stood a memorial to the soldiers who died in World War One, which was later moved to the RSL site. Mr Read also remembers other farms and orchards west of the creek In the early 1960s the Eltham Council began buying these farms and in the late 1960s turned the areas east of the Diamond Creek into a garbage tip. When this was filled above the creek’s flood plain, the tip was moved to the west of the creek.This collection of almost 130 photos about places and people within the Shire of Nillumbik, an urban and rural municipality in Melbourne's north, contributes to an understanding of the history of the Shire. Published in 2008 immediately prior to the Black Saturday bushfires of February 7, 2009, it documents sites that were impacted, and in some cases destroyed by the fires. It includes photographs taken especially for the publication, creating a unique time capsule representing the Shire in the early 21st century. It remains the most recent comprehenesive publication devoted to the Shire's history connecting local residents to the past. nillumbik now and then (marshall-king) collection, alistair knox park, eltham

Published: Nillumbik Now and Then /​ Marguerite Marshall 2008; photographs Alan King with Marguerite Marshall.; p175 It’s Saturday morning and thousands of people are visiting St Andrews Market at the corner of Heidelberg-Kinglake Road and Proctor Street. It’s hard to find a park. Cars are banked up along the narrow road and crammed in a nearby parking area. Yet, at the market, people look relaxed and happy amongst the yellow box gums on the site where the Wurundjeri people used to gather. Stone artefacts unearthed there by Koorie researcher, Isabel Ellender, indicate the site was once a Wurundjeri meeting place, according to Aboriginal Affairs Victoria. Acoustic sounds mingle with quiet conversations. A guitarist blows a mouth organ while his bare toes tickle chimes. A tiny busker, perhaps five years old, plays a violin while sounds of a harp emerge from the hall. One stallholder, selling delicious-looking pastries, chats to another in Spanish, then to me in broad Australian. ‘I was born in Fitzroy but my mother came from Mexico and my dad from Serbia,’ she smiles. A New Zealander fell in love with Mongolia and now imports their hand-made embroidered clothes and Yurts (tents) and runs adventure tours. A young woman visited Morocco and when friends admired the shoes she bought, she decided to import them and sell them at the market. Oxfam sells Fair Trade toys and clothes and displays a petition to Make Poverty History. Other stalls sell Himalayan salt, jewellery made from seeds from northern Australia, glass paper-weights from China as well as locally grown vegetables, flowers and organic freshly baked bread. A woman sits in a state of bliss under the hands of a masseur. Another offers Reiki or spiritual healing. A juggler tosses devil sticks – ‘not really about the devil,’ he smiles. This skill was practised thousands of years ago in Egypt and South America he says. At the Chai Tent people lounge on cushions in leisurely conversation. The idea for the market was first mooted among friends over a meal at the home of famous jazz and gospel singer Judy Jacques.2 Jacques remembers a discussion with several local artists including Marlene Pugh, Eric Beach, Les Kossatz, Ray Newell and Peter Wallace. ‘We decided we wanted a meeting place, where all the different factions of locals could meet on common ground, sell their goodies and get to know one another,’ Jacques recalls. They chose the site opposite another meeting place, St Andrews Pub. A week later Jacques rode her horse around the district and encouraged her neighbours to come along to the site to buy or sell. On February 23, 1973, about 20 stallholders arrived with tables. They traded ‘second-hand clothes, vegetables, meat, cheese, eggs, chickens, goats, scones, tea, garden pots and peacock feathers’. Now around 2000 people visit each Saturday. People usually linger until dusk. The market – with around 150 stalls of wares from a wide variety of cultures – stands alongside Montsalvat as the most popular tourist attraction in Nillumbik. By the 1990s St Andrews Market was in danger of being loved to death, as the site was becoming seriously degraded. The market was spreading in all directions and the degradation with it. A local council arborist’s report in 1994 noted exposed tree roots from erosion and compaction. The Department of Sustainability and Environment threatened to close the market if the degradation was not rectified. After many months of research, discussions and lobbying by a few residents, the council formed a Committee of Management, with an Advisory Committee, and introduced an Environment Levy. The State Government, the council and the market, funded terracing of the site to stop erosion, and retain moisture and nutrients. Vehicles were excluded from some sensitive areas and other crucial zones reserved for re-vegetation. Volunteers planted more than 3000 locally grown indigenous species. The old Yellow Box trees fully recovered and are expected to give shade for many years to come.This collection of almost 130 photos about places and people within the Shire of Nillumbik, an urban and rural municipality in Melbourne's north, contributes to an understanding of the history of the Shire. Published in 2008 immediately prior to the Black Saturday bushfires of February 7, 2009, it documents sites that were impacted, and in some cases destroyed by the fires. It includes photographs taken especially for the publication, creating a unique time capsule representing the Shire in the early 21st century. It remains the most recent comprehenesive publication devoted to the Shire's history connecting local residents to the past. nillumbik now and then (marshall-king) collection, didgeridoo, jesse tree, st andrews market, swiss hang drum

This novel, Jimmy of 'Murrumbar' by E.D. Oakley (Edward Daniel Oakley 1877-1962), is a children’s adventure story about an Australian indigenous boy who was educated in a mission and worked as a 'black tracker’ for the police to hunt down criminals in the bush and mountain region of the Grampian Ranges of Victoria. Oakely's parents, Thomas and Eliza, had a farm in Warrnambool called 'Oakbank'. Oakley worked at various jobs in the local district and later had his own wheat farms. When he returned to Warrnambool to build commercial premises and work in the retail industry. His influence encouraged Fletcher Jones to open a shop in Warrnambool. His novel - Jimmy of 'Murrumbar' - was written after he retired. The copy of the book in our collection does not have a publication date. The National Library of Australia lists two editions of this book, one dated 1938, the other is undetermined. It was published as part of a series called the Marcie Muir Collection of Australian children's books. No reference has been found to the author or any further works by him/her. The novel was reprinted as a reproduction in 2017 as a paperback and a leather bound edition 'Classic Reprint' by Forgotten Books. WARRNAMBOOL MECHANICS’ INSTITUTE Warrnambool's Mechanics' Institute (or Institution as it was sometimes called) was one of the earliest in Victoria. On 17th October 1853, a meeting was held where it was resolved to request the Lieutenant Governor of the Colony to grant land for the erection of a Mechanics' Institutes building. A committee was formed at the meeting and Richard Osburne chaired the first meeting of this committee. The land on the North West corner of Banyan and Merri Streets was granted but there were no funds to erect the building. The Formal Rights of the Warrnambool Mechanics' Institute's encompassed its aims and these were officially adopted in1859; "This Institution has for its object the diffusion of literary, scientific, and other useful knowledge amongst its members, excluding all controversial subjects, religious or political. These objects are sought to be obtained by means of a circulating library, a reading room, the establishment of classes, debates, and the occasional delivery of lectures on natural and experimental philosophy, mechanics, astronomy, chemistry, natural history, literature, and the useful and ornamental arts, particularly those which have a more immediate reference to the colony." The Warrnambool Mechanics' Institute opened its first reading room in November 1884 in the National School building at the corner of Banyan and Timor Streets. The Institute was funded by member subscription, payable on a quarterly, half-yearly or yearly basis. Samuel Hannaford, the Manager of the Warrnambool Bank of Australasia, was the first Honorary Secretary of the Mechanics' Institutes, and an early President and Vice-President. He also gave several of the early lectures in the Reading Room. Another early Secretary, Librarian and lecturer was Marmaduke Fisher, the teacher at the National School. Lecture topics included The Poets and Poetry of Ireland', 'The Birth and Development of the Earth', 'The Vertebrae - with Remarks on the pleasures resulting from the study of Natural History' and 'Architecture'. In 1856 the Reading Room was moved to James Hider's shop in Timor Street, and by 1864 it was located in the bookshop of Davies and Read. In the 1860's the Mechanics' Institute struggled as membership waned but in 1866, after a series of fundraising efforts, the committee was able to purchase land in Liebig Street, on a site then called Market Square, between the weighbridge and the fire station. A Mechanics' Institute building was opened at this site in August 1871. The following year four more rooms were added to the main Reading Room and in 1873 the Artisan School of Design was incorporated into the Institute. The same year Joseph Archibald established a Museum; however, it deteriorated when he was transferred to Bendigo in 1877. In 1880, with Archibald's return to Warrnambool, the Museum was re-established, and in 1885 a new building was built at the back of the Institute to accommodate the re-created School of Design, the Art Gallery and the Museum. In 1887 the Museum section was moved to the former courthouse in Timor Street (for some time the walls of the building formed part of the TAFE cafeteria but all is now demolished)). In 1911 the Museum was transferred back to the original building and the management of the Mechanics' Institute was handed over to the Warrnambool City Council. The Museum and Art Gallery became one and housed many fine works of art, and the Library continued to grow. The building was well patronised, with records showing that at the beginning of the 20th century there were between 500 and 800 visitors. During World War One the monthly figures were in the thousands, with 3,400 people visiting in January 1915. The Museum was a much loved Institution in Warrnambool until the contents of the Museum and Art Gallery were removed to make room for the Warrnambool City Council Engineers' Department. The contents were stored but many of the items were scattered or lost. When the original building was demolished the site became occupied by the Civic Centre, which included the new City Library. (The library was temporarily located in the old Palais building in Koroit Street.) In the process of reorganisation the Collection was distributed amongst the community groups: -The new City Library took some of the historical books and some important documents, historic photographs and newspapers. -The Art Gallery kept the 19th Century art collection and some of the artefacts from the museum. -The Historical Society has some items -The State Museum has some items -Some items were destroyed -Flagstaff Hill Maritime Village has old newspapers, Government Gazettes, most of the Mechanics' Institute Library, ledgers and documents connected to the Mechanics' Institute Library, some framed and unframed artworks and some photographs. The Warrnambool Mechanics' Institute Library book collection is deemed to be of great importance because it is one of the few collections in an almost intact state, and many of the books are now very rare and of great value. This novel is historically significant for its story, representing the changes to Australian Indigenous culture and life after colonisation. The book appears to be that this is the only work written by E.D. Oakley. It is locally significant for being written by an early prominent Warrnambool family member. Jimmy of Murrumbar : A Story of the Amazing Ability and Fidelity of an Australian Black Tracker Author: E D Oakley (Edward Daniel Oakley) Publisher: Osboldstone & Co, Pty Ltd, Melbourne, Australia The label on the spine with typed text R.A. 823 OAK The front loose endpaper has a sticker from Warrnambool Children’s Library shipwrecked-coast, flagstaff-hill, flagstaff-hill-maritime-museum, warrnambool, maritime-museum, shipwreck-coast, flagstaff-hill-maritime-village, shipwrecked-artefact, book, pattison collection, warrnambool library, warrnambool mechanics’ institute, ralph eric pattison, corangamite regional library service, warrnambool city librarian, mechanics’ institute library, victorian library board, warrnambool books and records, warrnambool children’s library, jimmy of murrumbar, e d oakley, edward daniel oakley, novel, young adult novel, juvenile fiction, australian black tracker, law enforcement - police trackers, tracking and trailing in australia, australian bush, grampian ranges in victoria, warrnambool history, fletcher jones, oakbank, thomas and eliza oakley, indigenous literature, indigenous australians

Royal Princess Theatre - A Sequel to Marjorie in Wonderland. Saturday, 1st September 1917. Australian Children's Pantomime. Price of Programme, One Penny. Matinee Performance. In aid of 'Fruit & Vegetables Fund For Our Soldiers In The Trenches.' Produced by Miss Girlie Mackay and Miss Norma Moorhead. Musical Director: Mr. Stanley Upton. Stage Manager: Mr. J Dunphy. Lighting Effects: Mr. W Wenborn. Hon. Sec.: Mr. Norman Howell. Inside cover Synopsis of Pantomime. The First act is Marjorie's Dream of Fairyland. The curtain rises showing Marjorie asleep in cot from which Brownies entice her away. The curtain is. . . . Sale of Sweets supervised by Miss Nita E Weller and Assistants Rose by Mrs. A T Mackay. Dresses designed and made by Mrs. McQuie, Misses Lena Weller, Norma Moorhead, Girlie Mackay, assisted by Mrs. Ralph Ross, Mrs. Robert Mackay, and the Misses May Germann, Carola Iser and Hilda Meurer. Programme. Songs sung throughout Performance. Overture-'Marjorie in Wonderland; Specially arranged by Mr. Upton. Overture Synopsis-This is descriptive of Marjorie's Dream of Fairyland; at first mystic and subdued, tending to convey the impression of the mysterious movements of the Spirits of the Night intermingled with the occasional calls of birds, a vision of Elfland; from that the music develops in an expression of the coming of morn, and the stirring of forest nature into the active life of day, with the distant sounds of the anvil and of bells; and as the day wears on, the chiming of the hours again denote the approach of eventide, the melody throughout being that of the song 'Marjorie Sunbeam.' Instrumental Soloists are Messrs. J Collins & H M Hall. Act 1. 'Moonstruck' Myrtle Glanville. 2 Moonboat, by the Fairies. 3 'Fairy Revel' by the Bunnies. 4 'Bunnies Adventure' by the Bunnies.5 'Catching Birds' by the Goblins. 7 'Fairyland' Ruthie Murphy. Act 2. 1 'Fairy Song'. 2 'Kookaburra Mel Wearne. 3 'Marjorie Sunbeam' the Brownies. 4 'Kangaroo' the brownies. 5 'Autumn Winds' 6 'As I went o'er the Paddocks' Jean Walker. 7 'Sea Serpent' Jim Walker & Jim Long. 8 Swing Song, The Playmates. 9 'Belle Bird' Jean & Jim Walker. 10 'Baby Bear' Stella Coghlan. 11 'Coo-ee' Myrtle Glanville & Marie Hamilton. 12 Butterfly Dance Sheila Shannon.13 'The Mushroom Affair' Ruthie Murphy & Jim Nabbs. 14 'Corroboree' by the Aboriginals. 15 'The Boomerang' Ken McQuie. 16 Chorus-Wattle. 17 'In Two's & Three's' Brownies & Goblins. 18 'Bull Frog & Coon Stella Cook & Sid Whitelaw. 19 In a Fairy Boat' Rose Murphy. 20 Chorus-'Good Night'. _God Bless Our Splendid Men_ Cast of Characters: Jean Walker, Myrtle Glanville, Marie Hamilton, Thelma Thomas, Stella Coghlan, Jim Long, Jim Walker, Enid Webster, Lily Brown, Una Grelis, Biddie Bulley, Ellie Colcough, Dorothy Fullerton, Maud Clark, Una Leggo, Sheila Shannon, Ken Skewes, Jack Long, Bruce Barnier, Roger Horbury, Douglas Pain, Tom Henderson, Ruthie Murphy, Jim Nabbs, Tom Green, Douglas McQuie, Mel Wearne, Laurence Skewes, Sid Whitelaw, Ken Moore, Alma Jorgenson, Geoff Schultz, Doris Reed, Nancy Cahill, Hugh Long, Edna Spencer, Don Walker, Jack Schultz, Ken McQuie, Jack Weddell, Berni and Allan Monaghan, Reg Trevean, Stella Cook, Joyce Ross, Margaret Long, Olive Thomas, Margaret Macqie, Rose Murphy, Molly Robertson, Lorna Weddell, Minnie Harley, Jean Moran, Merle Nagel, Decima Hotorf, Myra Greasley, Vera Arundel, Joyce Long, Elma Jordan, Gwen Morley, Emmie Arthur, Lorna Parker, Ziska Ross, Ena Wright, Mary Rymer, Cecil Gleeson, Thelma Cairns, Dorothy Batchelder, Maudie Ferguson, Marion Henderson, Lorna Cattran, Alice Murphy, Essie Whitelaw, Eileen Coghlin, Thelma Ross, Jean Miller, Mavis Tozer, Monnie Fattorini, Vivian Reed, Lily O'Connor, Alice Evans, Jean Barlow (Names of parts were included). Columbine Ballet: Alma Day, Kathleen Smithwick, Margery Greaves, Wilma Martin, Roma Cook, Dot Cravino, Alma Reardon, Jean Cairns.Cambridge Press, Print.program, theatre, royal princess theatre

Printed magazinesFrom “The History of Ringwood East Primary School 1924-1990” 'Nature Notes' was a children's nature magazine, produced at Ringwood East Primary School for approximately 10 years. It came to us from Blackburn Lake Primary School and before that Blackburn South Primary School. It was originally developed by Harry Hopkins in 1964. He was a District Inspector of schools and also President of the Gould League at the time. Fred Rodgers and Len Delacca were original contributors, Fred writing on native flora and Len writing on native flora [fauna]. It came to Ringwood East in 1975 with Keith Dyer, a teacher on the staff, as editor. The magazine had a large circulation, supplying to schools, private subscribers and societies as well as sending many complimentary copies to libraries, and museums; distribution was throughout Australia. The Magazine continued to grow under consequent editors, Anne Gibson (who also developed 'Probe' a junior version of 'Nature Notes' designed for grades 2 and 4), Barry Archibald, Colin Bull, Russell Hall, Deborah Brydon and Mandy Charmichael. The editors would research, compile, edit and print the magazine which was a monthly issue. The parents would then come in on a Monday to collate, fold and staple. This usually was a morning’s work but this depended on how many helping hands there were. The Wednesday was packing and posting day and in the early days the parents used to deliver the local orders to save costs. Subscribers were sought through advertisements in various school literature and material. The Parents Club received an annual remuneration for their hard work and in turn were able to help purchase many items needed throughout the school. These magazines were packed with really good nature information and taught children how to look after their environment using articles, puzzles, riddles, questions and quizzes. There were special characters as well like 'Wally the Wombat' and 'Ernie the Echidna' for the children to follow on various adventures every month. Children would enjoy watching them crop up in each edition. The magazine stayed with us at Ringwood East until 1986, when due to restructuring and various other things was moved to Healesville Sanctuary where it adopted a new format and name. From here it has since folded and so the end of 'Nature Notes'. 'Nature Notes' was a very successful magazine. Many people through the years devoted a lot of time and energy to its production and readers throughout Australia, as well as its many creators and producers during its 20-year existence, mourn its passing. Written from material supplied by Barry Archibald (editor 'Nature Notes' 1977-78) Margaret Preece & Lois Aders (parents in charge of collating and packaging during its last years of existence.

Printed magazinesFrom “The History of Ringwood East Primary School 1924-1990” 'Nature Notes' was a children's nature magazine, produced at Ringwood East Primary School for approximately 10 years. It came to us from Blackburn Lake Primary School and before that Blackburn South Primary School. It was originally developed by Harry Hopkins in 1964. He was a District Inspector of schools and also President of the Gould League at the time. Fred Rodgers and Len Delacca were original contributors, Fred writing on native flora and Len writing on native flora [fauna]. It came to Ringwood East in 1975 with Keith Dyer, a teacher on the staff, as editor. The magazine had a large circulation, supplying to schools, private subscribers and societies as well as sending many complimentary copies to libraries, and museums; distribution was throughout Australia. The Magazine continued to grow under consequent editors, Anne Gibson (who also developed 'Probe' a junior version of 'Nature Notes' designed for grades 2 and 4), Barry Archibald, Colin Bull, Russell Hall, Deborah Brydon and Mandy Charmichael. The editors would research, compile, edit and print the magazine which was a monthly issue. The parents would then come in on a Monday to collate, fold and staple. This usually was a morning’s work but this depended on how many helping hands there were. The Wednesday was packing and posting day and in the early days the parents used to deliver the local orders to save costs. Subscribers were sought through advertisements in various school literature and material. The Parents Club received an annual remuneration for their hard work and in turn were able to help purchase many items needed throughout the school. These magazines were packed with really good nature information and taught children how to look after their environment using articles, puzzles, riddles, questions and quizzes. There were special characters as well like 'Wally the Wombat' and 'Ernie the Echidna' for the children to follow on various adventures every month. Children would enjoy watching them crop up in each edition. The magazine stayed with us at Ringwood East until 1986, when due to restructuring and various other things was moved to Healesville Sanctuary where it adopted a new format and name. From here it has since folded and so the end of 'Nature Notes'. 'Nature Notes' was a very successful magazine. Many people through the years devoted a lot of time and energy to its production and readers throughout Australia, as well as its many creators and producers during its 20-year existence, mourn its passing. Written from material supplied by Barry Archibald (editor 'Nature Notes' 1977-78) Margaret Preece & Lois Aders (parents in charge of collating and packaging during its last years of existence.

Printed magazinesFrom “The History of Ringwood East Primary School 1924-1990” 'Nature Notes' was a children's nature magazine, produced at Ringwood East Primary School for approximately 10 years. It came to us from Blackburn Lake Primary School and before that Blackburn South Primary School. It was originally developed by Harry Hopkins in 1964. He was a District Inspector of schools and also President of the Gould League at the time. Fred Rodgers and Len Delacca were original contributors, Fred writing on native flora and Len writing on native flora [fauna]. It came to Ringwood East in 1975 with Keith Dyer, a teacher on the staff, as editor. The magazine had a large circulation, supplying to schools, private subscribers and societies as well as sending many complimentary copies to libraries, and museums; distribution was throughout Australia. The Magazine continued to grow under consequent editors, Anne Gibson (who also developed 'Probe' a junior version of 'Nature Notes' designed for grades 2 and 4), Barry Archibald, Colin Bull, Russell Hall, Deborah Brydon and Mandy Charmichael. The editors would research, compile, edit and print the magazine which was a monthly issue. The parents would then come in on a Monday to collate, fold and staple. This usually was a morning’s work but this depended on how many helping hands there were. The Wednesday was packing and posting day and in the early days the parents used to deliver the local orders to save costs. Subscribers were sought through advertisements in various school literature and material. The Parents Club received an annual remuneration for their hard work and in turn were able to help purchase many items needed throughout the school. These magazines were packed with really good nature information and taught children how to look after their environment using articles, puzzles, riddles, questions and quizzes. There were special characters as well like 'Wally the Wombat' and 'Ernie the Echidna' for the children to follow on various adventures every month. Children would enjoy watching them crop up in each edition. The magazine stayed with us at Ringwood East until 1986, when due to restructuring and various other things was moved to Healesville Sanctuary where it adopted a new format and name. From here it has since folded and so the end of 'Nature Notes'. 'Nature Notes' was a very successful magazine. Many people through the years devoted a lot of time and energy to its production and readers throughout Australia, as well as its many creators and producers during its 20-year existence, mourn its passing. Written from material supplied by Barry Archibald (editor 'Nature Notes' 1977-78) Margaret Preece & Lois Aders (parents in charge of collating and packaging during its last years of existence.

Printed magazinesFrom “The History of Ringwood East Primary School 1924-1990” 'Nature Notes' was a children's nature magazine, produced at Ringwood East Primary School for approximately 10 years. It came to us from Blackburn Lake Primary School and before that Blackburn South Primary School. It was originally developed by Harry Hopkins in 1964. He was a District Inspector of schools and also President of the Gould League at the time. Fred Rodgers and Len Delacca were original contributors, Fred writing on native flora and Len writing on native flora [fauna]. It came to Ringwood East in 1975 with Keith Dyer, a teacher on the staff, as editor. The magazine had a large circulation, supplying to schools, private subscribers and societies as well as sending many complimentary copies to libraries, and museums; distribution was throughout Australia. The Magazine continued to grow under consequent editors, Anne Gibson (who also developed 'Probe' a junior version of 'Nature Notes' designed for grades 2 and 4), Barry Archibald, Colin Bull, Russell Hall, Deborah Brydon and Mandy Charmichael. The editors would research, compile, edit and print the magazine which was a monthly issue. The parents would then come in on a Monday to collate, fold and staple. This usually was a morning’s work but this depended on how many helping hands there were. The Wednesday was packing and posting day and in the early days the parents used to deliver the local orders to save costs. Subscribers were sought through advertisements in various school literature and material. The Parents Club received an annual remuneration for their hard work and in turn were able to help purchase many items needed throughout the school. These magazines were packed with really good nature information and taught children how to look after their environment using articles, puzzles, riddles, questions and quizzes. There were special characters as well like 'Wally the Wombat' and 'Ernie the Echidna' for the children to follow on various adventures every month. Children would enjoy watching them crop up in each edition. The magazine stayed with us at Ringwood East until 1986, when due to restructuring and various other things was moved to Healesville Sanctuary where it adopted a new format and name. From here it has since folded and so the end of 'Nature Notes'. 'Nature Notes' was a very successful magazine. Many people through the years devoted a lot of time and energy to its production and readers throughout Australia, as well as its many creators and producers during its 20-year existence, mourn its passing. Written from material supplied by Barry Archibald (editor 'Nature Notes' 1977-78) Margaret Preece & Lois Aders (parents in charge of collating and packaging during its last years of existence.

Printed magazinesFrom “The History of Ringwood East Primary School 1924-1990” 'Nature Notes' was a children's nature magazine, produced at Ringwood East Primary School for approximately 10 years. It came to us from Blackburn Lake Primary School and before that Blackburn South Primary School. It was originally developed by Harry Hopkins in 1964. He was a District Inspector of schools and also President of the Gould League at the time. Fred Rodgers and Len Delacca were original contributors, Fred writing on native flora and Len writing on native flora [fauna]. It came to Ringwood East in 1975 with Keith Dyer, a teacher on the staff, as editor. The magazine had a large circulation, supplying to schools, private subscribers and societies as well as sending many complimentary copies to libraries, and museums; distribution was throughout Australia. The Magazine continued to grow under consequent editors, Anne Gibson (who also developed 'Probe' a junior version of 'Nature Notes' designed for grades 2 and 4), Barry Archibald, Colin Bull, Russell Hall, Deborah Brydon and Mandy Charmichael. The editors would research, compile, edit and print the magazine which was a monthly issue. The parents would then come in on a Monday to collate, fold and staple. This usually was a morning’s work but this depended on how many helping hands there were. The Wednesday was packing and posting day and in the early days the parents used to deliver the local orders to save costs. Subscribers were sought through advertisements in various school literature and material. The Parents Club received an annual remuneration for their hard work and in turn were able to help purchase many items needed throughout the school. These magazines were packed with really good nature information and taught children how to look after their environment using articles, puzzles, riddles, questions and quizzes. There were special characters as well like 'Wally the Wombat' and 'Ernie the Echidna' for the children to follow on various adventures every month. Children would enjoy watching them crop up in each edition. The magazine stayed with us at Ringwood East until 1986, when due to restructuring and various other things was moved to Healesville Sanctuary where it adopted a new format and name. From here it has since folded and so the end of 'Nature Notes'. 'Nature Notes' was a very successful magazine. Many people through the years devoted a lot of time and energy to its production and readers throughout Australia, as well as its many creators and producers during its 20-year existence, mourn its passing. Written from material supplied by Barry Archibald (editor 'Nature Notes' 1977-78) Margaret Preece & Lois Aders (parents in charge of collating and packaging during its last years of existence.

Printed magazinesFrom “The History of Ringwood East Primary School 1924-1990” 'Nature Notes' was a children's nature magazine, produced at Ringwood East Primary School for approximately 10 years. It came to us from Blackburn Lake Primary School and before that Blackburn South Primary School. It was originally developed by Harry Hopkins in 1964. He was a District Inspector of schools and also President of the Gould League at the time. Fred Rodgers and Len Delacca were original contributors, Fred writing on native flora and Len writing on native flora [fauna]. It came to Ringwood East in 1975 with Keith Dyer, a teacher on the staff, as editor. The magazine had a large circulation, supplying to schools, private subscribers and societies as well as sending many complimentary copies to libraries, and museums; distribution was throughout Australia. The Magazine continued to grow under consequent editors, Anne Gibson (who also developed 'Probe' a junior version of 'Nature Notes' designed for grades 2 and 4), Barry Archibald, Colin Bull, Russell Hall, Deborah Brydon and Mandy Charmichael. The editors would research, compile, edit and print the magazine which was a monthly issue. The parents would then come in on a Monday to collate, fold and staple. This usually was a morning’s work but this depended on how many helping hands there were. The Wednesday was packing and posting day and in the early days the parents used to deliver the local orders to save costs. Subscribers were sought through advertisements in various school literature and material. The Parents Club received an annual remuneration for their hard work and in turn were able to help purchase many items needed throughout the school. These magazines were packed with really good nature information and taught children how to look after their environment using articles, puzzles, riddles, questions and quizzes. There were special characters as well like 'Wally the Wombat' and 'Ernie the Echidna' for the children to follow on various adventures every month. Children would enjoy watching them crop up in each edition. The magazine stayed with us at Ringwood East until 1986, when due to restructuring and various other things was moved to Healesville Sanctuary where it adopted a new format and name. From here it has since folded and so the end of 'Nature Notes'. 'Nature Notes' was a very successful magazine. Many people through the years devoted a lot of time and energy to its production and readers throughout Australia, as well as its many creators and producers during its 20-year existence, mourn its passing. Written from material supplied by Barry Archibald (editor 'Nature Notes' 1977-78) Margaret Preece & Lois Aders (parents in charge of collating and packaging during its last years of existence.

Printed magazinesFrom “The History of Ringwood East Primary School 1924-1990” 'Nature Notes' was a children's nature magazine, produced at Ringwood East Primary School for approximately 10 years. It came to us from Blackburn Lake Primary School and before that Blackburn South Primary School. It was originally developed by Harry Hopkins in 1964. He was a District Inspector of schools and also President of the Gould League at the time. Fred Rodgers and Len Delacca were original contributors, Fred writing on native flora and Len writing on native flora [fauna]. It came to Ringwood East in 1975 with Keith Dyer, a teacher on the staff, as editor. The magazine had a large circulation, supplying to schools, private subscribers and societies as well as sending many complimentary copies to libraries, and museums; distribution was throughout Australia. The Magazine continued to grow under consequent editors, Anne Gibson (who also developed 'Probe' a junior version of 'Nature Notes' designed for grades 2 and 4), Barry Archibald, Colin Bull, Russell Hall, Deborah Brydon and Mandy Charmichael. The editors would research, compile, edit and print the magazine which was a monthly issue. The parents would then come in on a Monday to collate, fold and staple. This usually was a morning’s work but this depended on how many helping hands there were. The Wednesday was packing and posting day and in the early days the parents used to deliver the local orders to save costs. Subscribers were sought through advertisements in various school literature and material. The Parents Club received an annual remuneration for their hard work and in turn were able to help purchase many items needed throughout the school. These magazines were packed with really good nature information and taught children how to look after their environment using articles, puzzles, riddles, questions and quizzes. There were special characters as well like 'Wally the Wombat' and 'Ernie the Echidna' for the children to follow on various adventures every month. Children would enjoy watching them crop up in each edition. The magazine stayed with us at Ringwood East until 1986, when due to restructuring and various other things was moved to Healesville Sanctuary where it adopted a new format and name. From here it has since folded and so the end of 'Nature Notes'. 'Nature Notes' was a very successful magazine. Many people through the years devoted a lot of time and energy to its production and readers throughout Australia, as well as its many creators and producers during its 20-year existence, mourn its passing. Written from material supplied by Barry Archibald (editor 'Nature Notes' 1977-78) Margaret Preece & Lois Aders (parents in charge of collating and packaging during its last years of existence.

Printed magazinesFrom “The History of Ringwood East Primary School 1924-1990” 'Nature Notes' was a children's nature magazine, produced at Ringwood East Primary School for approximately 10 years. It came to us from Blackburn Lake Primary School and before that Blackburn South Primary School. It was originally developed by Harry Hopkins in 1964. He was a District Inspector of schools and also President of the Gould League at the time. Fred Rodgers and Len Delacca were original contributors, Fred writing on native flora and Len writing on native flora [fauna]. It came to Ringwood East in 1975 with Keith Dyer, a teacher on the staff, as editor. The magazine had a large circulation, supplying to schools, private subscribers and societies as well as sending many complimentary copies to libraries, and museums; distribution was throughout Australia. The Magazine continued to grow under consequent editors, Anne Gibson (who also developed 'Probe' a junior version of 'Nature Notes' designed for grades 2 and 4), Barry Archibald, Colin Bull, Russell Hall, Deborah Brydon and Mandy Charmichael. The editors would research, compile, edit and print the magazine which was a monthly issue. The parents would then come in on a Monday to collate, fold and staple. This usually was a morning’s work but this depended on how many helping hands there were. The Wednesday was packing and posting day and in the early days the parents used to deliver the local orders to save costs. Subscribers were sought through advertisements in various school literature and material. The Parents Club received an annual remuneration for their hard work and in turn were able to help purchase many items needed throughout the school. These magazines were packed with really good nature information and taught children how to look after their environment using articles, puzzles, riddles, questions and quizzes. There were special characters as well like 'Wally the Wombat' and 'Ernie the Echidna' for the children to follow on various adventures every month. Children would enjoy watching them crop up in each edition. The magazine stayed with us at Ringwood East until 1986, when due to restructuring and various other things was moved to Healesville Sanctuary where it adopted a new format and name. From here it has since folded and so the end of 'Nature Notes'. 'Nature Notes' was a very successful magazine. Many people through the years devoted a lot of time and energy to its production and readers throughout Australia, as well as its many creators and producers during its 20-year existence, mourn its passing. Written from material supplied by Barry Archibald (editor 'Nature Notes' 1977-78) Margaret Preece & Lois Aders (parents in charge of collating and packaging during its last years of existence.

Printed magazinesFrom “The History of Ringwood East Primary School 1924-1990” 'Nature Notes' was a children's nature magazine, produced at Ringwood East Primary School for approximately 10 years. It came to us from Blackburn Lake Primary School and before that Blackburn South Primary School. It was originally developed by Harry Hopkins in 1964. He was a District Inspector of schools and also President of the Gould League at the time. Fred Rodgers and Len Delacca were original contributors, Fred writing on native flora and Len writing on native flora [fauna]. It came to Ringwood East in 1975 with Keith Dyer, a teacher on the staff, as editor. The magazine had a large circulation, supplying to schools, private subscribers and societies as well as sending many complimentary copies to libraries, and museums; distribution was throughout Australia. The Magazine continued to grow under consequent editors, Anne Gibson (who also developed 'Probe' a junior version of 'Nature Notes' designed for grades 2 and 4), Barry Archibald, Colin Bull, Russell Hall, Deborah Brydon and Mandy Charmichael. The editors would research, compile, edit and print the magazine which was a monthly issue. The parents would then come in on a Monday to collate, fold and staple. This usually was a morning’s work but this depended on how many helping hands there were. The Wednesday was packing and posting day and in the early days the parents used to deliver the local orders to save costs. Subscribers were sought through advertisements in various school literature and material. The Parents Club received an annual remuneration for their hard work and in turn were able to help purchase many items needed throughout the school. These magazines were packed with really good nature information and taught children how to look after their environment using articles, puzzles, riddles, questions and quizzes. There were special characters as well like 'Wally the Wombat' and 'Ernie the Echidna' for the children to follow on various adventures every month. Children would enjoy watching them crop up in each edition. The magazine stayed with us at Ringwood East until 1986, when due to restructuring and various other things was moved to Healesville Sanctuary where it adopted a new format and name. From here it has since folded and so the end of 'Nature Notes'. 'Nature Notes' was a very successful magazine. Many people through the years devoted a lot of time and energy to its production and readers throughout Australia, as well as its many creators and producers during its 20-year existence, mourn its passing. Written from material supplied by Barry Archibald (editor 'Nature Notes' 1977-78) Margaret Preece & Lois Aders (parents in charge of collating and packaging during its last years of existence.

Printed magazinesFrom “The History of Ringwood East Primary School 1924-1990” 'Nature Notes' was a children's nature magazine, produced at Ringwood East Primary School for approximately 10 years. It came to us from Blackburn Lake Primary School and before that Blackburn South Primary School. It was originally developed by Harry Hopkins in 1964. He was a District Inspector of schools and also President of the Gould League at the time. Fred Rodgers and Len Delacca were original contributors, Fred writing on native flora and Len writing on native flora [fauna]. It came to Ringwood East in 1975 with Keith Dyer, a teacher on the staff, as editor. The magazine had a large circulation, supplying to schools, private subscribers and societies as well as sending many complimentary copies to libraries, and museums; distribution was throughout Australia. The Magazine continued to grow under consequent editors, Anne Gibson (who also developed 'Probe' a junior version of 'Nature Notes' designed for grades 2 and 4), Barry Archibald, Colin Bull, Russell Hall, Deborah Brydon and Mandy Charmichael. The editors would research, compile, edit and print the magazine which was a monthly issue. The parents would then come in on a Monday to collate, fold and staple. This usually was a morning’s work but this depended on how many helping hands there were. The Wednesday was packing and posting day and in the early days the parents used to deliver the local orders to save costs. Subscribers were sought through advertisements in various school literature and material. The Parents Club received an annual remuneration for their hard work and in turn were able to help purchase many items needed throughout the school. These magazines were packed with really good nature information and taught children how to look after their environment using articles, puzzles, riddles, questions and quizzes. There were special characters as well like 'Wally the Wombat' and 'Ernie the Echidna' for the children to follow on various adventures every month. Children would enjoy watching them crop up in each edition. The magazine stayed with us at Ringwood East until 1986, when due to restructuring and various other things was moved to Healesville Sanctuary where it adopted a new format and name. From here it has since folded and so the end of 'Nature Notes'. 'Nature Notes' was a very successful magazine. Many people through the years devoted a lot of time and energy to its production and readers throughout Australia, as well as its many creators and producers during its 20-year existence, mourn its passing. Written from material supplied by Barry Archibald (editor 'Nature Notes' 1977-78) Margaret Preece & Lois Aders (parents in charge of collating and packaging during its last years of existence.

Printed magazinesFrom “The History of Ringwood East Primary School 1924-1990” 'Nature Notes' was a children's nature magazine, produced at Ringwood East Primary School for approximately 10 years. It came to us from Blackburn Lake Primary School and before that Blackburn South Primary School. It was originally developed by Harry Hopkins in 1964. He was a District Inspector of schools and also President of the Gould League at the time. Fred Rodgers and Len Delacca were original contributors, Fred writing on native flora and Len writing on native flora [fauna]. It came to Ringwood East in 1975 with Keith Dyer, a teacher on the staff, as editor. The magazine had a large circulation, supplying to schools, private subscribers and societies as well as sending many complimentary copies to libraries, and museums; distribution was throughout Australia. The Magazine continued to grow under consequent editors, Anne Gibson (who also developed 'Probe' a junior version of 'Nature Notes' designed for grades 2 and 4), Barry Archibald, Colin Bull, Russell Hall, Deborah Brydon and Mandy Charmichael. The editors would research, compile, edit and print the magazine which was a monthly issue. The parents would then come in on a Monday to collate, fold and staple. This usually was a morning’s work but this depended on how many helping hands there were. The Wednesday was packing and posting day and in the early days the parents used to deliver the local orders to save costs. Subscribers were sought through advertisements in various school literature and material. The Parents Club received an annual remuneration for their hard work and in turn were able to help purchase many items needed throughout the school. These magazines were packed with really good nature information and taught children how to look after their environment using articles, puzzles, riddles, questions and quizzes. There were special characters as well like 'Wally the Wombat' and 'Ernie the Echidna' for the children to follow on various adventures every month. Children would enjoy watching them crop up in each edition. The magazine stayed with us at Ringwood East until 1986, when due to restructuring and various other things was moved to Healesville Sanctuary where it adopted a new format and name. From here it has since folded and so the end of 'Nature Notes'. 'Nature Notes' was a very successful magazine. Many people through the years devoted a lot of time and energy to its production and readers throughout Australia, as well as its many creators and producers during its 20-year existence, mourn its passing. Written from material supplied by Barry Archibald (editor 'Nature Notes' 1977-78) Margaret Preece & Lois Aders (parents in charge of collating and packaging during its last years of existence.

Printed magazinesFrom “The History of Ringwood East Primary School 1924-1990” 'Nature Notes' was a children's nature magazine, produced at Ringwood East Primary School for approximately 10 years. It came to us from Blackburn Lake Primary School and before that Blackburn South Primary School. It was originally developed by Harry Hopkins in 1964. He was a District Inspector of schools and also President of the Gould League at the time. Fred Rodgers and Len Delacca were original contributors, Fred writing on native flora and Len writing on native flora [fauna]. It came to Ringwood East in 1975 with Keith Dyer, a teacher on the staff, as editor. The magazine had a large circulation, supplying to schools, private subscribers and societies as well as sending many complimentary copies to libraries, and museums; distribution was throughout Australia. The Magazine continued to grow under consequent editors, Anne Gibson (who also developed 'Probe' a junior version of 'Nature Notes' designed for grades 2 and 4), Barry Archibald, Colin Bull, Russell Hall, Deborah Brydon and Mandy Charmichael. The editors would research, compile, edit and print the magazine which was a monthly issue. The parents would then come in on a Monday to collate, fold and staple. This usually was a morning’s work but this depended on how many helping hands there were. The Wednesday was packing and posting day and in the early days the parents used to deliver the local orders to save costs. Subscribers were sought through advertisements in various school literature and material. The Parents Club received an annual remuneration for their hard work and in turn were able to help purchase many items needed throughout the school. These magazines were packed with really good nature information and taught children how to look after their environment using articles, puzzles, riddles, questions and quizzes. There were special characters as well like 'Wally the Wombat' and 'Ernie the Echidna' for the children to follow on various adventures every month. Children would enjoy watching them crop up in each edition. The magazine stayed with us at Ringwood East until 1986, when due to restructuring and various other things was moved to Healesville Sanctuary where it adopted a new format and name. From here it has since folded and so the end of 'Nature Notes'. 'Nature Notes' was a very successful magazine. Many people through the years devoted a lot of time and energy to its production and readers throughout Australia, as well as its many creators and producers during its 20-year existence, mourn its passing. Written from material supplied by Barry Archibald (editor 'Nature Notes' 1977-78) Margaret Preece & Lois Aders (parents in charge of collating and packaging during its last years of existence.

Printed magazinesFrom “The History of Ringwood East Primary School 1924-1990” 'Nature Notes' was a children's nature magazine, produced at Ringwood East Primary School for approximately 10 years. It came to us from Blackburn Lake Primary School and before that Blackburn South Primary School. It was originally developed by Harry Hopkins in 1964. He was a District Inspector of schools and also President of the Gould League at the time. Fred Rodgers and Len Delacca were original contributors, Fred writing on native flora and Len writing on native flora [fauna]. It came to Ringwood East in 1975 with Keith Dyer, a teacher on the staff, as editor. The magazine had a large circulation, supplying to schools, private subscribers and societies as well as sending many complimentary copies to libraries, and museums; distribution was throughout Australia. The Magazine continued to grow under consequent editors, Anne Gibson (who also developed 'Probe' a junior version of 'Nature Notes' designed for grades 2 and 4), Barry Archibald, Colin Bull, Russell Hall, Deborah Brydon and Mandy Charmichael. The editors would research, compile, edit and print the magazine which was a monthly issue. The parents would then come in on a Monday to collate, fold and staple. This usually was a morning’s work but this depended on how many helping hands there were. The Wednesday was packing and posting day and in the early days the parents used to deliver the local orders to save costs. Subscribers were sought through advertisements in various school literature and material. The Parents Club received an annual remuneration for their hard work and in turn were able to help purchase many items needed throughout the school. These magazines were packed with really good nature information and taught children how to look after their environment using articles, puzzles, riddles, questions and quizzes. There were special characters as well like 'Wally the Wombat' and 'Ernie the Echidna' for the children to follow on various adventures every month. Children would enjoy watching them crop up in each edition. The magazine stayed with us at Ringwood East until 1986, when due to restructuring and various other things was moved to Healesville Sanctuary where it adopted a new format and name. From here it has since folded and so the end of 'Nature Notes'. 'Nature Notes' was a very successful magazine. Many people through the years devoted a lot of time and energy to its production and readers throughout Australia, as well as its many creators and producers during its 20-year existence, mourn its passing. Written from material supplied by Barry Archibald (editor 'Nature Notes' 1977-78) Margaret Preece & Lois Aders (parents in charge of collating and packaging during its last years of existence.

Printed magazinesFrom “The History of Ringwood East Primary School 1924-1990” 'Nature Notes' was a children's nature magazine, produced at Ringwood East Primary School for approximately 10 years. It came to us from Blackburn Lake Primary School and before that Blackburn South Primary School. It was originally developed by Harry Hopkins in 1964. He was a District Inspector of schools and also President of the Gould League at the time. Fred Rodgers and Len Delacca were original contributors, Fred writing on native flora and Len writing on native flora [fauna]. It came to Ringwood East in 1975 with Keith Dyer, a teacher on the staff, as editor. The magazine had a large circulation, supplying to schools, private subscribers and societies as well as sending many complimentary copies to libraries, and museums; distribution was throughout Australia. The Magazine continued to grow under consequent editors, Anne Gibson (who also developed 'Probe' a junior version of 'Nature Notes' designed for grades 2 and 4), Barry Archibald, Colin Bull, Russell Hall, Deborah Brydon and Mandy Charmichael. The editors would research, compile, edit and print the magazine which was a monthly issue. The parents would then come in on a Monday to collate, fold and staple. This usually was a morning’s work but this depended on how many helping hands there were. The Wednesday was packing and posting day and in the early days the parents used to deliver the local orders to save costs. Subscribers were sought through advertisements in various school literature and material. The Parents Club received an annual remuneration for their hard work and in turn were able to help purchase many items needed throughout the school. These magazines were packed with really good nature information and taught children how to look after their environment using articles, puzzles, riddles, questions and quizzes. There were special characters as well like 'Wally the Wombat' and 'Ernie the Echidna' for the children to follow on various adventures every month. Children would enjoy watching them crop up in each edition. The magazine stayed with us at Ringwood East until 1986, when due to restructuring and various other things was moved to Healesville Sanctuary where it adopted a new format and name. From here it has since folded and so the end of 'Nature Notes'. 'Nature Notes' was a very successful magazine. Many people through the years devoted a lot of time and energy to its production and readers throughout Australia, as well as its many creators and producers during its 20-year existence, mourn its passing. Written from material supplied by Barry Archibald (editor 'Nature Notes' 1977-78) Margaret Preece & Lois Aders (parents in charge of collating and packaging during its last years of existence.

Printed magazinesFrom “The History of Ringwood East Primary School 1924-1990” 'Nature Notes' was a children's nature magazine, produced at Ringwood East Primary School for approximately 10 years. It came to us from Blackburn Lake Primary School and before that Blackburn South Primary School. It was originally developed by Harry Hopkins in 1964. He was a District Inspector of schools and also President of the Gould League at the time. Fred Rodgers and Len Delacca were original contributors, Fred writing on native flora and Len writing on native flora [fauna]. It came to Ringwood East in 1975 with Keith Dyer, a teacher on the staff, as editor. The magazine had a large circulation, supplying to schools, private subscribers and societies as well as sending many complimentary copies to libraries, and museums; distribution was throughout Australia. The Magazine continued to grow under consequent editors, Anne Gibson (who also developed 'Probe' a junior version of 'Nature Notes' designed for grades 2 and 4), Barry Archibald, Colin Bull, Russell Hall, Deborah Brydon and Mandy Charmichael. The editors would research, compile, edit and print the magazine which was a monthly issue. The parents would then come in on a Monday to collate, fold and staple. This usually was a morning’s work but this depended on how many helping hands there were. The Wednesday was packing and posting day and in the early days the parents used to deliver the local orders to save costs. Subscribers were sought through advertisements in various school literature and material. The Parents Club received an annual remuneration for their hard work and in turn were able to help purchase many items needed throughout the school. These magazines were packed with really good nature information and taught children how to look after their environment using articles, puzzles, riddles, questions and quizzes. There were special characters as well like 'Wally the Wombat' and 'Ernie the Echidna' for the children to follow on various adventures every month. Children would enjoy watching them crop up in each edition. The magazine stayed with us at Ringwood East until 1986, when due to restructuring and various other things was moved to Healesville Sanctuary where it adopted a new format and name. From here it has since folded and so the end of 'Nature Notes'. 'Nature Notes' was a very successful magazine. Many people through the years devoted a lot of time and energy to its production and readers throughout Australia, as well as its many creators and producers during its 20-year existence, mourn its passing. Written from material supplied by Barry Archibald (editor 'Nature Notes' 1977-78) Margaret Preece & Lois Aders (parents in charge of collating and packaging during its last years of existence.

Parent Record for Archive collection of photographs, documents, minutes etc relating to the Nature Notes and Probe magazines published by the Ringwood Electorate State/Primary SchoolsFrom “The History of Ringwood East Primary School 1924-1990” 'Nature Notes' was a children's nature magazine, produced at Ringwood East Primary School for approximately 10 years. It came to us from Blackburn Lake Primary School and before that Blackburn South Primary School. It was originally developed by Harry Hopkins in 1964. He was a District Inspector of schools and also President of the Gould League at the time. Fred Rodgers and Len Delacca were original contributors, Fred writing on native flora and Len writing on native flora [fauna]. It came to Ringwood East in 1975 with Keith Dyer, a teacher on the staff, as editor. The magazine had a large circulation, supplying to schools, private subscribers and societies as well as sending many complimentary copies to libraries, and museums; distribution was throughout Australia. The Magazine continued to grow under consequent editors, Anne Gibson (who also developed 'Probe' a junior version of 'Nature Notes' designed for grades 2 and 4), Barry Archibald, Colin Bull, Russell Hall, Deborah Brydon and Mandy Charmichael. The editors would research, compile, edit and print the magazine which was a monthly issue. The parents would then come in on a Monday to collate, fold and staple. This usually was a morning’s work but this depended on how many helping hands there were. The Wednesday was packing and posting day and in the early days the parents used to deliver the local orders to save costs. Subscribers were sought through advertisements in various school literature and material. The Parents Club received an annual remuneration for their hard work and in turn were able to help purchase many items needed throughout the school. These magazines were packed with really good nature information and taught children how to look after their environment using articles, puzzles, riddles, questions and quizzes. There were special characters as well like 'Wally the Wombat' and 'Ernie the Echidna' for the children to follow on various adventures every month. Children would enjoy watching them crop up in each edition. The magazine stayed with us at Ringwood East until 1986, when due to restructuring and various other things was moved to Healesville Sanctuary where it adopted a new format and name. From here it has since folded and so the end of 'Nature Notes'. 'Nature Notes' was a very successful magazine. Many people through the years devoted a lot of time and energy to its production and readers throughout Australia, as well as its many creators and producers during its 20-year existence, mourn its passing. Written from material supplied by Barry Archibald (editor 'Nature Notes' 1977-78) Margaret Preece & Lois Aders (parents in charge of collating and packaging during its last years of existence.

Printed magazinesFrom “The History of Ringwood East Primary School 1924-1990” 'Nature Notes' was a children's nature magazine, produced at Ringwood East Primary School for approximately 10 years. It came to us from Blackburn Lake Primary School and before that Blackburn South Primary School. It was originally developed by Harry Hopkins in 1964. He was a District Inspector of schools and also President of the Gould League at the time. Fred Rodgers and Len Delacca were original contributors, Fred writing on native flora and Len writing on native flora [fauna]. It came to Ringwood East in 1975 with Keith Dyer, a teacher on the staff, as editor. The magazine had a large circulation, supplying to schools, private subscribers and societies as well as sending many complimentary copies to libraries, and museums; distribution was throughout Australia. The Magazine continued to grow under consequent editors, Anne Gibson (who also developed 'Probe' a junior version of 'Nature Notes' designed for grades 2 and 4), Barry Archibald, Colin Bull, Russell Hall, Deborah Brydon and Mandy Charmichael. The editors would research, compile, edit and print the magazine which was a monthly issue. The parents would then come in on a Monday to collate, fold and staple. This usually was a morning’s work but this depended on how many helping hands there were. The Wednesday was packing and posting day and in the early days the parents used to deliver the local orders to save costs. Subscribers were sought through advertisements in various school literature and material. The Parents Club received an annual remuneration for their hard work and in turn were able to help purchase many items needed throughout the school. These magazines were packed with really good nature information and taught children how to look after their environment using articles, puzzles, riddles, questions and quizzes. There were special characters as well like 'Wally the Wombat' and 'Ernie the Echidna' for the children to follow on various adventures every month. Children would enjoy watching them crop up in each edition. The magazine stayed with us at Ringwood East until 1986, when due to restructuring and various other things was moved to Healesville Sanctuary where it adopted a new format and name. From here it has since folded and so the end of 'Nature Notes'. 'Nature Notes' was a very successful magazine. Many people through the years devoted a lot of time and energy to its production and readers throughout Australia, as well as its many creators and producers during its 20-year existence, mourn its passing. Written from material supplied by Barry Archibald (editor 'Nature Notes' 1977-78) Margaret Preece & Lois Aders (parents in charge of collating and packaging during its last years of existence.

Printed magazinesFrom “The History of Ringwood East Primary School 1924-1990” 'Nature Notes' was a children's nature magazine, produced at Ringwood East Primary School for approximately 10 years. It came to us from Blackburn Lake Primary School and before that Blackburn South Primary School. It was originally developed by Harry Hopkins in 1964. He was a District Inspector of schools and also President of the Gould League at the time. Fred Rodgers and Len Delacca were original contributors, Fred writing on native flora and Len writing on native flora [fauna]. It came to Ringwood East in 1975 with Keith Dyer, a teacher on the staff, as editor. The magazine had a large circulation, supplying to schools, private subscribers and societies as well as sending many complimentary copies to libraries, and museums; distribution was throughout Australia. The Magazine continued to grow under consequent editors, Anne Gibson (who also developed 'Probe' a junior version of 'Nature Notes' designed for grades 2 and 4), Barry Archibald, Colin Bull, Russell Hall, Deborah Brydon and Mandy Charmichael. The editors would research, compile, edit and print the magazine which was a monthly issue. The parents would then come in on a Monday to collate, fold and staple. This usually was a morning’s work but this depended on how many helping hands there were. The Wednesday was packing and posting day and in the early days the parents used to deliver the local orders to save costs. Subscribers were sought through advertisements in various school literature and material. The Parents Club received an annual remuneration for their hard work and in turn were able to help purchase many items needed throughout the school. These magazines were packed with really good nature information and taught children how to look after their environment using articles, puzzles, riddles, questions and quizzes. There were special characters as well like 'Wally the Wombat' and 'Ernie the Echidna' for the children to follow on various adventures every month. Children would enjoy watching them crop up in each edition. The magazine stayed with us at Ringwood East until 1986, when due to restructuring and various other things was moved to Healesville Sanctuary where it adopted a new format and name. From here it has since folded and so the end of 'Nature Notes'. 'Nature Notes' was a very successful magazine. Many people through the years devoted a lot of time and energy to its production and readers throughout Australia, as well as its many creators and producers during its 20-year existence, mourn its passing. Written from material supplied by Barry Archibald (editor 'Nature Notes' 1977-78) Margaret Preece & Lois Aders (parents in charge of collating and packaging during its last years of existence.

Printed magazinesFrom “The History of Ringwood East Primary School 1924-1990” 'Nature Notes' was a children's nature magazine, produced at Ringwood East Primary School for approximately 10 years. It came to us from Blackburn Lake Primary School and before that Blackburn South Primary School. It was originally developed by Harry Hopkins in 1964. He was a District Inspector of schools and also President of the Gould League at the time. Fred Rodgers and Len Delacca were original contributors, Fred writing on native flora and Len writing on native flora [fauna]. It came to Ringwood East in 1975 with Keith Dyer, a teacher on the staff, as editor. The magazine had a large circulation, supplying to schools, private subscribers and societies as well as sending many complimentary copies to libraries, and museums; distribution was throughout Australia. The Magazine continued to grow under consequent editors, Anne Gibson (who also developed 'Probe' a junior version of 'Nature Notes' designed for grades 2 and 4), Barry Archibald, Colin Bull, Russell Hall, Deborah Brydon and Mandy Charmichael. The editors would research, compile, edit and print the magazine which was a monthly issue. The parents would then come in on a Monday to collate, fold and staple. This usually was a morning’s work but this depended on how many helping hands there were. The Wednesday was packing and posting day and in the early days the parents used to deliver the local orders to save costs. Subscribers were sought through advertisements in various school literature and material. The Parents Club received an annual remuneration for their hard work and in turn were able to help purchase many items needed throughout the school. These magazines were packed with really good nature information and taught children how to look after their environment using articles, puzzles, riddles, questions and quizzes. There were special characters as well like 'Wally the Wombat' and 'Ernie the Echidna' for the children to follow on various adventures every month. Children would enjoy watching them crop up in each edition. The magazine stayed with us at Ringwood East until 1986, when due to restructuring and various other things was moved to Healesville Sanctuary where it adopted a new format and name. From here it has since folded and so the end of 'Nature Notes'. 'Nature Notes' was a very successful magazine. Many people through the years devoted a lot of time and energy to its production and readers throughout Australia, as well as its many creators and producers during its 20-year existence, mourn its passing. Written from material supplied by Barry Archibald (editor 'Nature Notes' 1977-78) Margaret Preece & Lois Aders (parents in charge of collating and packaging during its last years of existence.

Printed magazinesFrom “The History of Ringwood East Primary School 1924-1990” 'Nature Notes' was a children's nature magazine, produced at Ringwood East Primary School for approximately 10 years. It came to us from Blackburn Lake Primary School and before that Blackburn South Primary School. It was originally developed by Harry Hopkins in 1964. He was a District Inspector of schools and also President of the Gould League at the time. Fred Rodgers and Len Delacca were original contributors, Fred writing on native flora and Len writing on native flora [fauna]. It came to Ringwood East in 1975 with Keith Dyer, a teacher on the staff, as editor. The magazine had a large circulation, supplying to schools, private subscribers and societies as well as sending many complimentary copies to libraries, and museums; distribution was throughout Australia. The Magazine continued to grow under consequent editors, Anne Gibson (who also developed 'Probe' a junior version of 'Nature Notes' designed for grades 2 and 4), Barry Archibald, Colin Bull, Russell Hall, Deborah Brydon and Mandy Charmichael. The editors would research, compile, edit and print the magazine which was a monthly issue. The parents would then come in on a Monday to collate, fold and staple. This usually was a morning’s work but this depended on how many helping hands there were. The Wednesday was packing and posting day and in the early days the parents used to deliver the local orders to save costs. Subscribers were sought through advertisements in various school literature and material. The Parents Club received an annual remuneration for their hard work and in turn were able to help purchase many items needed throughout the school. These magazines were packed with really good nature information and taught children how to look after their environment using articles, puzzles, riddles, questions and quizzes. There were special characters as well like 'Wally the Wombat' and 'Ernie the Echidna' for the children to follow on various adventures every month. Children would enjoy watching them crop up in each edition. The magazine stayed with us at Ringwood East until 1986, when due to restructuring and various other things was moved to Healesville Sanctuary where it adopted a new format and name. From here it has since folded and so the end of 'Nature Notes'. 'Nature Notes' was a very successful magazine. Many people through the years devoted a lot of time and energy to its production and readers throughout Australia, as well as its many creators and producers during its 20-year existence, mourn its passing. Written from material supplied by Barry Archibald (editor 'Nature Notes' 1977-78) Margaret Preece & Lois Aders (parents in charge of collating and packaging during its last years of existence.

Printed magazinesFrom “The History of Ringwood East Primary School 1924-1990” 'Nature Notes' was a children's nature magazine, produced at Ringwood East Primary School for approximately 10 years. It came to us from Blackburn Lake Primary School and before that Blackburn South Primary School. It was originally developed by Harry Hopkins in 1964. He was a District Inspector of schools and also President of the Gould League at the time. Fred Rodgers and Len Delacca were original contributors, Fred writing on native flora and Len writing on native flora [fauna]. It came to Ringwood East in 1975 with Keith Dyer, a teacher on the staff, as editor. The magazine had a large circulation, supplying to schools, private subscribers and societies as well as sending many complimentary copies to libraries, and museums; distribution was throughout Australia. The Magazine continued to grow under consequent editors, Anne Gibson (who also developed 'Probe' a junior version of 'Nature Notes' designed for grades 2 and 4), Barry Archibald, Colin Bull, Russell Hall, Deborah Brydon and Mandy Charmichael. The editors would research, compile, edit and print the magazine which was a monthly issue. The parents would then come in on a Monday to collate, fold and staple. This usually was a morning’s work but this depended on how many helping hands there were. The Wednesday was packing and posting day and in the early days the parents used to deliver the local orders to save costs. Subscribers were sought through advertisements in various school literature and material. The Parents Club received an annual remuneration for their hard work and in turn were able to help purchase many items needed throughout the school. These magazines were packed with really good nature information and taught children how to look after their environment using articles, puzzles, riddles, questions and quizzes. There were special characters as well like 'Wally the Wombat' and 'Ernie the Echidna' for the children to follow on various adventures every month. Children would enjoy watching them crop up in each edition. The magazine stayed with us at Ringwood East until 1986, when due to restructuring and various other things was moved to Healesville Sanctuary where it adopted a new format and name. From here it has since folded and so the end of 'Nature Notes'. 'Nature Notes' was a very successful magazine. Many people through the years devoted a lot of time and energy to its production and readers throughout Australia, as well as its many creators and producers during its 20-year existence, mourn its passing. Written from material supplied by Barry Archibald (editor 'Nature Notes' 1977-78) Margaret Preece & Lois Aders (parents in charge of collating and packaging during its last years of existence.

Printed magazinesFrom “The History of Ringwood East Primary School 1924-1990” 'Nature Notes' was a children's nature magazine, produced at Ringwood East Primary School for approximately 10 years. It came to us from Blackburn Lake Primary School and before that Blackburn South Primary School. It was originally developed by Harry Hopkins in 1964. He was a District Inspector of schools and also President of the Gould League at the time. Fred Rodgers and Len Delacca were original contributors, Fred writing on native flora and Len writing on native flora [fauna]. It came to Ringwood East in 1975 with Keith Dyer, a teacher on the staff, as editor. The magazine had a large circulation, supplying to schools, private subscribers and societies as well as sending many complimentary copies to libraries, and museums; distribution was throughout Australia. The Magazine continued to grow under consequent editors, Anne Gibson (who also developed 'Probe' a junior version of 'Nature Notes' designed for grades 2 and 4), Barry Archibald, Colin Bull, Russell Hall, Deborah Brydon and Mandy Charmichael. The editors would research, compile, edit and print the magazine which was a monthly issue. The parents would then come in on a Monday to collate, fold and staple. This usually was a morning’s work but this depended on how many helping hands there were. The Wednesday was packing and posting day and in the early days the parents used to deliver the local orders to save costs. Subscribers were sought through advertisements in various school literature and material. The Parents Club received an annual remuneration for their hard work and in turn were able to help purchase many items needed throughout the school. These magazines were packed with really good nature information and taught children how to look after their environment using articles, puzzles, riddles, questions and quizzes. There were special characters as well like 'Wally the Wombat' and 'Ernie the Echidna' for the children to follow on various adventures every month. Children would enjoy watching them crop up in each edition. The magazine stayed with us at Ringwood East until 1986, when due to restructuring and various other things was moved to Healesville Sanctuary where it adopted a new format and name. From here it has since folded and so the end of 'Nature Notes'. 'Nature Notes' was a very successful magazine. Many people through the years devoted a lot of time and energy to its production and readers throughout Australia, as well as its many creators and producers during its 20-year existence, mourn its passing. Written from material supplied by Barry Archibald (editor 'Nature Notes' 1977-78) Margaret Preece & Lois Aders (parents in charge of collating and packaging during its last years of existence.

Prior to carrying out a detailed condition report of the cetacean skeletons, it is useful to have an understanding of the materials we are likely to encounter, in terms of structure and chemistry. This entry invites you to join in learning about the composition of whale bone and oil. Whale bone (Cetacean) bone is comprised of a composite structure of both an inorganic matrix of mainly hydroxylapatite (a calcium phosphate mineral), providing strength and rigidity, as well as an organic protein ‘scaffolding’ of mainly collagen, facilitating growth and repair (O’Connor 2008, CCI 2010). Collagen is also the structural protein component in cartilage between the whale vertebrae and attached to the fins of both the Killer Whale and the Dolphin. Relative proportions in the bone composition (affecting density), are linked with the feeding habits and mechanical stresses typically endured by bones of particular whale types. A Sperm Whale (Physeter macrocephalus Linnaeus, 1758) skeleton (toothed) thus has a higher mineral value (~67%) than a Fin Whale (Balaenoptera physalus Linnaeus, 1758) (baleen) (~60%) (Turner Walker 2012). The internal structure of bone can be divided into compact and cancellous bone. In whales, load-bearing structures such as mandibles and upper limb bones (e.g. humerus, sternum) are largely composed of compact bone (Turner Walker 2012). This consists of lamella concentrically deposited around the longitudinal axis and is permeated by fluid carrying channels (O’Connor 2008). Cancellous (spongy) bone, with a highly porous angular network of trabeculae, is less stiff and thus found in whale ribs and vertebrae (Turner Walker 2012). Whale oil Whales not only carry a thick layer of fat (blubber) in the soft tissue of their body for heat insulation and as a food store while they are alive, but also hold large oil (lipid) reserves in their porous bones. Following maceration of the whale skeleton after death to remove the soft tissue, the bones retain a high lipid content (Higgs et. al 2010). Particularly bones with a spongy (porous) structure have a high capacity to hold oil-rich marrow. Comparative data of various whale species suggests the skull, particularly the cranium and mandible bones are particularly oil rich. Along the vertebral column, the lipid content is reduced, particularly in the thoracic vertebrae (~10-25%), yet greatly increases from the lumbar to the caudal vertebrae (~40-55%). The chest area (scapula, sternum and ribs) show a mid-range lipid content (~15-30%), with vertically orientated ribs being more heavily soaked lower down (Turner Walker 2012, Higgs et. al 2010). Whale oil is largely composed of triglycerides (molecules of fatty acids attached to a glycerol molecule). In Arctic whales a higher proportion of unsaturated, versus saturated fatty acids make up the lipid. Unsaturated fatty acids (with double or triple carbon bonds causing chain kinks, preventing close packing (solidifying) of molecules), are more likely to be liquid (oil), versus solid (fat) at room temperature (Smith and March 2007). Objects Made From the Whaling Industry We all know that men set forth in sailing ships and risked their lives to harpoon whales on the open seas throughout the 1800s. And while Moby Dick and other tales have made whaling stories immortal, people today generally don't appreciate that the whalers were part of a well-organized industry. The ships that set out from ports in New England roamed as far as the Pacific in hunt of specific species of whales. Adventure may have been the draw for some whalers, but for the captains who owned whaling ships, and the investors which financed voyages, there was a considerable monetary payoff. The gigantic carcasses of whales were chopped and boiled down and turned into products such as the fine oil needed to lubricate increasing advanced machine tools. And beyond the oil derived from whales, even their bones, in an era before the invention of plastic, was used to make a wide variety of consumer goods. In short, whales were a valuable natural resource the same as wood, minerals, or petroleum we now pump from the ground. Oil From Whale’s Blubber Oil was the main product sought from whales, and it was used to lubricate machinery and to provide illumination by burning it in lamps. When a whale was killed, it was towed to the ship and its blubber, the thick insulating fat under its skin, would be peeled and cut from its carcass in a process known as “flensing.” The blubber was minced into chunks and boiled in large vats on board the whaling ship, producing oil. The oil taken from whale blubber was packaged in casks and transported back to the whaling ship’s home port (such as New Bedford, Massachusetts, the busiest American whaling port in the mid-1800s). From the ports it would be sold and transported across the country and would find its way into a huge variety of products. Whale oil, in addition to be used for lubrication and illumination, was also used to manufacture soaps, paint, and varnish. Whale oil was also utilized in some processes used to manufacture textiles and rope. Spermaceti, a Highly Regarded Oil A peculiar oil found in the head of the sperm whale, spermaceti, was highly prized. The oil was waxy, and was commonly used in making candles. In fact, candles made of spermaceti were considered the best in the world, producing a bright clear flame without an excess of smoke. Spermaceti was also used, distilled in liquid form, as an oil to fuel lamps. The main American whaling port, New Bedford, Massachusetts, was thus known as "The City That Lit the World." When John Adams was the ambassador to Great Britain before serving as president he recorded in his diary a conversation about spermaceti he had with the British Prime Minister William Pitt. Adams, keen to promote the New England whaling industry, was trying to convince the British to import spermaceti sold by American whalers, which the British could use to fuel street lamps. The British were not interested. In his diary, Adams wrote that he told Pitt, “the fat of the spermaceti whale gives the clearest and most beautiful flame of any substance that is known in nature, and we are surprised you prefer darkness, and consequent robberies, burglaries, and murders in your streets to receiving as a remittance our spermaceti oil.” Despite the failed sales pitch John Adams made in the late 1700s, the American whaling industry boomed in the early to mid-1800s. And spermaceti was a major component of that success. Spermaceti could be refined into a lubricant that was ideal for precision machinery. The machine tools that made the growth of industry possible in the United States were lubricated, and essentially made possible, by oil derived from spermaceti. Baleen, or "Whalebone" The bones and teeth of various species of whales were used in a number of products, many of them common implements in a 19th century household. Whales are said to have produced “the plastic of the 1800s.” The "bone" of the whale which was most commonly used wasn’t technically a bone, it was baleen, a hard material arrayed in large plates, like gigantic combs, in the mouths of some species of whales. The purpose of the baleen is to act as a sieve, catching tiny organisms in sea water, which the whale consumes as food. As baleen was tough yet flexible, it could be used in a number of practical applications. And it became commonly known as "whalebone." Perhaps the most common use of whalebone was in the manufacture of corsets, which fashionable ladies in the 1800s wore to compress their waistlines. One typical corset advertisement from the 1800s proudly proclaims, “Real Whalebone Only Used.” Whalebone was also used for collar stays, buggy whips, and toys. Its remarkable flexibility even caused it to be used as the springs in early typewriters. The comparison to plastic is apt. Think of common items which today might be made of plastic, and it's likely that similar items in the 1800s would have been made of whalebone. Baleen whales do not have teeth. But the teeth of other whales, such as the sperm whale, would be used as ivory in such products as chess pieces, piano keys, or the handles of walking sticks. Pieces of scrimshaw, or carved whale's teeth, would probably be the best remembered use of whale's teeth. However, the carved teeth were created to pass the time on whaling voyages and were never a mass production item. Their relative rarity, of course, is why genuine pieces of 19th century scrimshaw are considered to be valuable collectibles today. Reference: McNamara, Robert. "Objects Made From the Whaling Industry." ThoughtCo, Jul. 31, 2021, thoughtco.com/products-produced-from-whales-1774070.Whale bone was an important commodity, used in corsets, collar stays, buggy whips, and toys.Whale bone in two pieces. Advanced stage of calcification as indicated by deep pitting. Off white to grey.None.flagstaff hill, warrnambool, shipwrecked-coast, flagstaff-hill, flagstaff-hill-maritime-museum, maritime-museum, shipwreck-coast, flagstaff-hill-maritime-village, whale bones, whale skeleton, whales, whale bone, corsets, toys, whips

Prior to carrying out a detailed condition report of the cetacean skeletons, it is useful to have an understanding of the materials we are likely to encounter, in terms of structure and chemistry. This entry invites you to join in learning about the composition of whale bone and oil. Whale bone (Cetacean) bone is comprised of a composite structure of both an inorganic matrix of mainly hydroxylapatite (a calcium phosphate mineral), providing strength and rigidity, as well as an organic protein ‘scaffolding’ of mainly collagen, facilitating growth and repair (O’Connor 2008, CCI 2010). Collagen is also the structural protein component in cartilage between the whale vertebrae and attached to the fins of both the Killer Whale and the Dolphin. Relative proportions in the bone composition (affecting density), are linked with the feeding habits and mechanical stresses typically endured by bones of particular whale types. A Sperm Whale (Physeter macrocephalus Linnaeus, 1758) skeleton (toothed) thus has a higher mineral value (~67%) than a Fin Whale (Balaenoptera physalus Linnaeus, 1758) (baleen) (~60%) (Turner Walker 2012). The internal structure of bone can be divided into compact and cancellous bone. In whales, load-bearing structures such as mandibles and upper limb bones (e.g. humerus, sternum) are largely composed of compact bone (Turner Walker 2012). This consists of lamella concentrically deposited around the longitudinal axis and is permeated by fluid carrying channels (O’Connor 2008). Cancellous (spongy) bone, with a highly porous angular network of trabeculae, is less stiff and thus found in whale ribs and vertebrae (Turner Walker 2012). Whale oil Whales not only carry a thick layer of fat (blubber) in the soft tissue of their body for heat insulation and as a food store while they are alive, but also hold large oil (lipid) reserves in their porous bones. Following maceration of the whale skeleton after death to remove the soft tissue, the bones retain a high lipid content (Higgs et. al 2010). Particularly bones with a spongy (porous) structure have a high capacity to hold oil-rich marrow. Comparative data of various whale species suggests the skull, particularly the cranium and mandible bones are particularly oil rich. Along the vertebral column, the lipid content is reduced, particularly in the thoracic vertebrae (~10-25%), yet greatly increases from the lumbar to the caudal vertebrae (~40-55%). The chest area (scapula, sternum and ribs) show a mid-range lipid content (~15-30%), with vertically orientated ribs being more heavily soaked lower down (Turner Walker 2012, Higgs et. al 2010). Whale oil is largely composed of triglycerides (molecules of fatty acids attached to a glycerol molecule). In Arctic whales a higher proportion of unsaturated, versus saturated fatty acids make up the lipid. Unsaturated fatty acids (with double or triple carbon bonds causing chain kinks, preventing close packing (solidifying) of molecules), are more likely to be liquid (oil), versus solid (fat) at room temperature (Smith and March 2007). Objects Made From the Whaling Industry We all know that men set forth in sailing ships and risked their lives to harpoon whales on the open seas throughout the 1800s. And while Moby Dick and other tales have made whaling stories immortal, people today generally don't appreciate that the whalers were part of a well-organized industry. The ships that set out from ports in New England roamed as far as the Pacific in hunt of specific species of whales. Adventure may have been the draw for some whalers, but for the captains who owned whaling ships, and the investors which financed voyages, there was a considerable monetary payoff. The gigantic carcasses of whales were chopped and boiled down and turned into products such as the fine oil needed to lubricate increasing advanced machine tools. And beyond the oil derived from whales, even their bones, in an era before the invention of plastic, was used to make a wide variety of consumer goods. In short, whales were a valuable natural resource the same as wood, minerals, or petroleum we now pump from the ground. Oil From Whale’s Blubber Oil was the main product sought from whales, and it was used to lubricate machinery and to provide illumination by burning it in lamps. When a whale was killed, it was towed to the ship and its blubber, the thick insulating fat under its skin, would be peeled and cut from its carcass in a process known as “flensing.” The blubber was minced into chunks and boiled in large vats on board the whaling ship, producing oil. The oil taken from whale blubber was packaged in casks and transported back to the whaling ship’s home port (such as New Bedford, Massachusetts, the busiest American whaling port in the mid-1800s). From the ports it would be sold and transported across the country and would find its way into a huge variety of products. Whale oil, in addition to be used for lubrication and illumination, was also used to manufacture soaps, paint, and varnish. Whale oil was also utilized in some processes used to manufacture textiles and rope. Spermaceti, a Highly Regarded Oil A peculiar oil found in the head of the sperm whale, spermaceti, was highly prized. The oil was waxy, and was commonly used in making candles. In fact, candles made of spermaceti were considered the best in the world, producing a bright clear flame without an excess of smoke. Spermaceti was also used, distilled in liquid form, as an oil to fuel lamps. The main American whaling port, New Bedford, Massachusetts, was thus known as "The City That Lit the World." When John Adams was the ambassador to Great Britain before serving as president he recorded in his diary a conversation about spermaceti he had with the British Prime Minister William Pitt. Adams, keen to promote the New England whaling industry, was trying to convince the British to import spermaceti sold by American whalers, which the British could use to fuel street lamps. The British were not interested. In his diary, Adams wrote that he told Pitt, “the fat of the spermaceti whale gives the clearest and most beautiful flame of any substance that is known in nature, and we are surprised you prefer darkness, and consequent robberies, burglaries, and murders in your streets to receiving as a remittance our spermaceti oil.” Despite the failed sales pitch John Adams made in the late 1700s, the American whaling industry boomed in the early to mid-1800s. And spermaceti was a major component of that success. Spermaceti could be refined into a lubricant that was ideal for precision machinery. The machine tools that made the growth of industry possible in the United States were lubricated, and essentially made possible, by oil derived from spermaceti. Baleen, or "Whalebone" The bones and teeth of various species of whales were used in a number of products, many of them common implements in a 19th century household. Whales are said to have produced “the plastic of the 1800s.” The "bone" of the whale which was most commonly used wasn’t technically a bone, it was baleen, a hard material arrayed in large plates, like gigantic combs, in the mouths of some species of whales. The purpose of the baleen is to act as a sieve, catching tiny organisms in sea water, which the whale consumes as food. As baleen was tough yet flexible, it could be used in a number of practical applications. And it became commonly known as "whalebone." Perhaps the most common use of whalebone was in the manufacture of corsets, which fashionable ladies in the 1800s wore to compress their waistlines. One typical corset advertisement from the 1800s proudly proclaims, “Real Whalebone Only Used.” Whalebone was also used for collar stays, buggy whips, and toys. Its remarkable flexibility even caused it to be used as the springs in early typewriters. The comparison to plastic is apt. Think of common items which today might be made of plastic, and it's likely that similar items in the 1800s would have been made of whalebone. Baleen whales do not have teeth. But the teeth of other whales, such as the sperm whale, would be used as ivory in such products as chess pieces, piano keys, or the handles of walking sticks. Pieces of scrimshaw, or carved whale's teeth, would probably be the best remembered use of whale's teeth. However, the carved teeth were created to pass the time on whaling voyages and were never a mass production item. Their relative rarity, of course, is why genuine pieces of 19th century scrimshaw are considered to be valuable collectibles today. Reference: McNamara, Robert. "Objects Made From the Whaling Industry." ThoughtCo, Jul. 31, 2021, thoughtco.com/products-produced-from-whales-1774070.Whale bone was an important commodity, used in corsets, collar stays, buggy whips, and toys.Whale bone piece. Advanced stage of calcification as indicated by deep pitting. Off white to grey.None.flagstaff hill, warrnambool, shipwrecked-coast, flagstaff-hill, flagstaff-hill-maritime-museum, maritime-museum, shipwreck-coast, flagstaff-hill-maritime-village, whales, whale bone, corsets, toys, whips

Prior to carrying out a detailed condition report of the cetacean skeletons, it is useful to have an understanding of the materials we are likely to encounter, in terms of structure and chemistry. This entry invites you to join in learning about the composition of whale bone and oil. Whale bone (Cetacean) bone is comprised of a composite structure of both an inorganic matrix of mainly hydroxylapatite (a calcium phosphate mineral), providing strength and rigidity, as well as an organic protein ‘scaffolding’ of mainly collagen, facilitating growth and repair (O’Connor 2008, CCI 2010). Collagen is also the structural protein component in cartilage between the whale vertebrae and attached to the fins of both the Killer Whale and the Dolphin. Relative proportions in the bone composition (affecting density), are linked with the feeding habits and mechanical stresses typically endured by bones of particular whale types. A Sperm Whale (Physeter macrocephalus Linnaeus, 1758) skeleton (toothed) thus has a higher mineral value (~67%) than a Fin Whale (Balaenoptera physalus Linnaeus, 1758) (baleen) (~60%) (Turner Walker 2012). The internal structure of bone can be divided into compact and cancellous bone. In whales, load-bearing structures such as mandibles and upper limb bones (e.g. humerus, sternum) are largely composed of compact bone (Turner Walker 2012). This consists of lamella concentrically deposited around the longitudinal axis and is permeated by fluid carrying channels (O’Connor 2008). Cancellous (spongy) bone, with a highly porous angular network of trabeculae, is less stiff and thus found in whale ribs and vertebrae (Turner Walker 2012). Whale oil Whales not only carry a thick layer of fat (blubber) in the soft tissue of their body for heat insulation and as a food store while they are alive, but also hold large oil (lipid) reserves in their porous bones. Following maceration of the whale skeleton after death to remove the soft tissue, the bones retain a high lipid content (Higgs et. al 2010). Particularly bones with a spongy (porous) structure have a high capacity to hold oil-rich marrow. Comparative data of various whale species suggests the skull, particularly the cranium and mandible bones are particularly oil rich. Along the vertebral column, the lipid content is reduced, particularly in the thoracic vertebrae (~10-25%), yet greatly increases from the lumbar to the caudal vertebrae (~40-55%). The chest area (scapula, sternum and ribs) show a mid-range lipid content (~15-30%), with vertically orientated ribs being more heavily soaked lower down (Turner Walker 2012, Higgs et. al 2010). Whale oil is largely composed of triglycerides (molecules of fatty acids attached to a glycerol molecule). In Arctic whales a higher proportion of unsaturated, versus saturated fatty acids make up the lipid. Unsaturated fatty acids (with double or triple carbon bonds causing chain kinks, preventing close packing (solidifying) of molecules), are more likely to be liquid (oil), versus solid (fat) at room temperature (Smith and March 2007). Objects Made From the Whaling Industry We all know that men set forth in sailing ships and risked their lives to harpoon whales on the open seas throughout the 1800s. And while Moby Dick and other tales have made whaling stories immortal, people today generally don't appreciate that the whalers were part of a well-organized industry. The ships that set out from ports in New England roamed as far as the Pacific in hunt of specific species of whales. Adventure may have been the draw for some whalers, but for the captains who owned whaling ships, and the investors which financed voyages, there was a considerable monetary payoff. The gigantic carcasses of whales were chopped and boiled down and turned into products such as the fine oil needed to lubricate increasing advanced machine tools. And beyond the oil derived from whales, even their bones, in an era before the invention of plastic, was used to make a wide variety of consumer goods. In short, whales were a valuable natural resource the same as wood, minerals, or petroleum we now pump from the ground. Oil From Whale’s Blubber Oil was the main product sought from whales, and it was used to lubricate machinery and to provide illumination by burning it in lamps. When a whale was killed, it was towed to the ship and its blubber, the thick insulating fat under its skin, would be peeled and cut from its carcass in a process known as “flensing.” The blubber was minced into chunks and boiled in large vats on board the whaling ship, producing oil. The oil taken from whale blubber was packaged in casks and transported back to the whaling ship’s home port (such as New Bedford, Massachusetts, the busiest American whaling port in the mid-1800s). From the ports it would be sold and transported across the country and would find its way into a huge variety of products. Whale oil, in addition to be used for lubrication and illumination, was also used to manufacture soaps, paint, and varnish. Whale oil was also utilized in some processes used to manufacture textiles and rope. Spermaceti, a Highly Regarded Oil A peculiar oil found in the head of the sperm whale, spermaceti, was highly prized. The oil was waxy, and was commonly used in making candles. In fact, candles made of spermaceti were considered the best in the world, producing a bright clear flame without an excess of smoke. Spermaceti was also used, distilled in liquid form, as an oil to fuel lamps. The main American whaling port, New Bedford, Massachusetts, was thus known as "The City That Lit the World." When John Adams was the ambassador to Great Britain before serving as president he recorded in his diary a conversation about spermaceti he had with the British Prime Minister William Pitt. Adams, keen to promote the New England whaling industry, was trying to convince the British to import spermaceti sold by American whalers, which the British could use to fuel street lamps. The British were not interested. In his diary, Adams wrote that he told Pitt, “the fat of the spermaceti whale gives the clearest and most beautiful flame of any substance that is known in nature, and we are surprised you prefer darkness, and consequent robberies, burglaries, and murders in your streets to receiving as a remittance our spermaceti oil.” Despite the failed sales pitch John Adams made in the late 1700s, the American whaling industry boomed in the early to mid-1800s. And spermaceti was a major component of that success. Spermaceti could be refined into a lubricant that was ideal for precision machinery. The machine tools that made the growth of industry possible in the United States were lubricated, and essentially made possible, by oil derived from spermaceti. Baleen, or "Whalebone" The bones and teeth of various species of whales were used in a number of products, many of them common implements in a 19th century household. Whales are said to have produced “the plastic of the 1800s.” The "bone" of the whale which was most commonly used wasn’t technically a bone, it was baleen, a hard material arrayed in large plates, like gigantic combs, in the mouths of some species of whales. The purpose of the baleen is to act as a sieve, catching tiny organisms in sea water, which the whale consumes as food. As baleen was tough yet flexible, it could be used in a number of practical applications. And it became commonly known as "whalebone." Perhaps the most common use of whalebone was in the manufacture of corsets, which fashionable ladies in the 1800s wore to compress their waistlines. One typical corset advertisement from the 1800s proudly proclaims, “Real Whalebone Only Used.” Whalebone was also used for collar stays, buggy whips, and toys. Its remarkable flexibility even caused it to be used as the springs in early typewriters. The comparison to plastic is apt. Think of common items which today might be made of plastic, and it's likely that similar items in the 1800s would have been made of whalebone. Baleen whales do not have teeth. But the teeth of other whales, such as the sperm whale, would be used as ivory in such products as chess pieces, piano keys, or the handles of walking sticks. Pieces of scrimshaw, or carved whale's teeth, would probably be the best remembered use of whale's teeth. However, the carved teeth were created to pass the time on whaling voyages and were never a mass production item. Their relative rarity, of course, is why genuine pieces of 19th century scrimshaw are considered to be valuable collectibles today. Reference: McNamara, Robert. "Objects Made From the Whaling Industry." ThoughtCo, Jul. 31, 2021, thoughtco.com/products-produced-from-whales-1774070. Whale bone was an important commodity, used in corsets, collar stays, buggy whips, and toys.Whale bone vertebrae. Advanced stage of calcification as indicated by deep pitting. Off white to grey.None.flagstaff hill, warrnambool, shipwrecked-coast, flagstaff-hill, flagstaff-hill-maritime-museum, maritime-museum, shipwreck-coast, flagstaff-hill-maritime-village, whales, whale bone, corsets, toys, whips