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Bendigo Military Museum
Booklet - BOOKLET, BARRACKS OPENING, Armoured Centre, 1985
Armoured Centre, Ceremonial opening of Hopkins Barracks, 31.10.1985.Soft, cardboard cover, black print on front, white background with small illustration of Coat of Arms. 15 cut, plain, white, pages. Illustrated black / white / colour photos & diagram. Stapled.royal australian amoured corps, raac -
Bendigo Military Museum
Furniture - TABLE, POW, c.1943 - 1944
This table was made by Italian POW's at the Land HQ Cartographic Company for the Officers Mess, Fortuna, Bendigo in 1943-44.Coffee table made from timber & masonite, has bottom shelf, all sections held together by wedge & groove, timber section has been varnished.Plaque etched & attached to table: This Table Was Hand Made By The Italian Prisoners Of War Attached To The Land Headquarters Cartographic Company For The Officers Mess 1943 - 1944army survey regiment, royal australian survey corps, rasvy, army svy regt, fortuna, asr -
Kiewa Valley Historical Society
Sharpener Saw Raker/Jointer, early 1900s
This raker/jointer/guage set is a sharpening tool for cross cut logging saws. The logging saws used in the early 1900's for the clearing of forests required constant sharpening of their "cutting teeth". The logging of forested areas during these times was very much a "hands on" method of either one or two men by the use of saw or hand axe. Chain saws, chain and ball(clearing) and bulldozing methods came in the mid 1900's.This particular saw sharpening method was used by surveyors laying down boundaries for the S.E.C. Victoria Hydro Electricity Scheme (1920's). This item was given to a local Kiewa Valley lad who accompanied the initial surveyors. The lad was responsible for the tendering and feeding of the surveyors "pack horses". Surveys during this period and in the dense mountainous terrain of the Victorian Alps was both exhausting and hazardous. Overnight accommodation at various log cabins was not always possible and swag/tent alternative was the "fall back" This raker/jointer saw sharpener was made in the USA (DISSTON) from cast and flat iron. The main body has been painted in orange. It has three adjustment screws on the top horizontal bar and one bolt on(adjusting) leveling platform on the bottom. The small size and weight of this saw sharpener was ideal for the travelling/mobile logger or surveyor(as in this case). The main frame resembles two towers connected by two horizontal bars and the top of the towers has a horizontal bar with adjustment screws. See KVHS 0090 (B) for setting stake wedge adjusting the rake and cutting angle and KVHS 0090 (C) for a small spanner (for adjustments).On one inner supports is stamped "DISSTON" and on the other "U.S.A."hand tool, saw, sharpening method, tree felling. -
Kiewa Valley Historical Society
Tool Spring Set, circa early 1900s
This is part of a crosscut saw raker/jointer/guage set used to bend the tip of each cutter tooth for cross cut logging saws. The logging saws used in the early 1900's for the clearing of forests required constant sharpening of their "cutting teeth". The logging of forested areas during these times was very much a "hands on" method of either one or two men by the use of saw or hand axe. This item was used by the surveyors commissioned by The S.E.C. Victoria Kiewa Hydro Electricity Scheme project mapping the relevant Alpine region. Chain saws, chain and ball(clearing) and bulldozing methods came in the mid 1900's.This particular saw sharpening method was used by surveyors laying down boundaries for the S.E.C. Victoria Hydro Electricity Scheme (1920's). This item was given to a local Kiewa Valley lad who accompanied the initial surveyors. The lad was responsible for the tendering and feeding of the surveyors "pack horses". Surveys work during this period and in these dense mountainous terrain of the Victorian Alps was both exhausting and hazardous. Overnight accommodation at various log cabins was not always possible and swag/tent alternative was the "fall back".This cast iron Spring Setting tool has a main body of angle iron contours with one end tappered into a flat circular extension with a slit (3/32" wide) running from the top to nearly the centre(15mm). This slit is to allow the bending of each "cutter tooth" of the cross cut saw. The "bottom of this slit has a semi circular ending. Protruding from one side of the bar body, and close to the "slit" is a tounge like extension (wedge) to fasten the spring set tool into a tree stump. See KVHS 0090 (A) for its Raker/Jointer saw sharpening guage set partner. Also see KVHS 0090 (C) for the associated wrench. On one side of the bar "DISSTON U.S.A."hand tool, saw, sharpening method, tree felling -
Kiewa Valley Historical Society
Spanner Small, 1920's
This spanner, part of a raker/jointer/guage set which is a sharpening tool for cross cut logging saws. The logging saws used in the early 1900's for the clearing of forests required constant sharpening of their "cutting teeth". The logging of forested areas during these times was very much a "hands on" method of either one or two men by the use of saw or hand axe. Chain saws, chain and ball(clearing) and bulldozing methods came in the mid 1900's.This particular spanner was part of a crosscut saw sharpening tool and method was used by surveyors laying down boundaries for the S.E.C. Victoria Hydro Electricity Scheme (1920's). This item was given to a local Kiewa Valley lad who accompanied the initial surveyors. The lad was responsible for the tendering and feeding of the surveyors "pack horses". Surveys during this period and in the dense mountainous terrain of the Victorian Alps was both exhausting and hazardous. Overnight accommodation at various log cabins was not always possible and swag/tent alternative was the "fall back"This small spanner is part of the Raker/Jointer Gauge saw set and is made from forged steel. The nut grip is of the two tightening nuts on the main construction frame. See KVHS 0090 (A &B) for the other items making up the sharpening tools.hand tool, saw, sharpening method, tree felling. -
Bendigo Military Museum
Administrative record - RASvy - Defense Mapping Agency Exchange Officer End of Tour Report MAJ D Bowen 1982, MAJ DH Bowen US Army Corps of Engineers, 3. 5. 1982
A 2 x year personnel exchange program existed between RASvy and the US Army Corps of Engineers. This is the End of Tour Report produced by David H Bowen, Major, Corps of Engineers, US Army Exchange Officer, Australia in 1982A4 Document, Plastic cover, Purple and gold, RASvy Badge emblem and Defense Mapping Agency Badge emblems in gold, 17 pages, 13 enclosures, black and white print, colour photos and mapsReport compiled by David H Bowen, Major, Corps of Engineers, US Army Exchange Officer, Australiaroyal australian survey corps, rasvy, fortuna, army survey regiment, army svy regt, asr -
Bendigo Military Museum
Administrative record - RASvy - Defense Mapping Agency Exchange Officer Mid Tour Report MAJ J Charland 1983, MAJ JJ Charland US Army Corps of Engineers, 15.08.83
A 2 x year personnel exchange program existed between RASvy and the US Army Corps of Engineers. This is the Mid Term Tour Report produced by John J Charland, Major, Corps of Engineers, US Army Exchange Officer, Australia in 1983A4 document, Purple Cover, Gold Badge Image US Defense Mapping Agency and RASvy, 13 PagesCompiled by John J Charland, Major, Corps of Engineers, United States Armyroyal australian survey corps, rasvy, fortuna, army survey regiment, army svy regt, asr -
Bendigo Military Museum
Administrative record - American - Australian Officer Exchange - Mid Tour Report ASR 1988, Major J Wright US Corps of Engineers, Major Edward J Wright US Army Corps of Engineers, 30 June 1988
Mid Tour Report USA - Aust Officer Exchange 1988 by Major Edward J Wright, US Army Corps of EngineersA4 Booklet, cream card, DMA and RASvy Corps Badges on cover, 16 pagesroyal australian survey corps, rasvy, fortuna, army survey regiment, army svy regt, asr -
Bendigo Military Museum
Accessory - COMPASS JAPANESE, C. 1939 - 45
Item souvenired by Leslie John Kupke No VX93892 2nd AIF. Refer 2054.2 for his service history. Japanese compass with hinged cover. Casing made of metal. N,S,E,W in Japanese. Case has loops for attaching to a strap.PATEN 2908 stamped on back (worn but visible)surveying-terrestrial, military - equipment, japan -
Bendigo Military Museum
Equipment - THEODOLITE, c.1930 - 1940
Item belonged to Maxwell Lennox MATHESON 418447 RAAF. Refer Cat No1959 for his service history. The two items were put together to make a home made Theodolite.Metal, glass construction consisting of an eye piece from a bomb sight eye piece with several adjustments fitted to an ASTRO Compass MKII and rotates on a base"AM ASTRO Compass MKII Ref 6A/1174 3.C"surveying-terrestrial, compass -
Bendigo Military Museum
Map - MAP FRANCE, FRAMED, Ordinance Survey 1918, c.1918
Thin wooden frame with green border, glass front. Amiens,France. War Office October 1915.Amiens France 1:100,000 For Office Use Onlydocuments-maps, france, frame accessories, amiens -
Bendigo Military Museum
Award - The Peter Dew Memorial Award "The Golden Dewy", 1977
A humorous novelty award presented generally annually to a Litho Squadron member selected as the "Super Animal of the Year" Wooden pedestal with engraved brass plates on the front. The upper plate contains a list of award recipients 1977 - 1992 Lower plate engraved: " The Golden Dewy", The Peter Dew Memorial Award, Presented to the Litho Squadron "Super Animal of the Year"royal australian survey corps, rasvy, fortuna, army survey regiment, army svy regt, asr, litho sqn -
Bendigo Military Museum
Manual - Portrayal Specification for Topographic Line Mapping at Scales1:50,000, 1:25,000 and 1:10,000, 16.07.1998
These specifications enabled the hard copy representation of digital topographic data for the Australian Defence Force (ADF) covering Australia and nearer regions.Plastic covered white four ring binder, 14 Chapters, 4 Annexesroyal australian survey corps, rasvy, fortuna, army survey regiment, army svy regt, asr, director of strategic military geographic information, dsmgi -
Bendigo Military Museum
Manual - Digital Topographic Data Compilation Specification - Part 2 Planning Level Products, June 1998
The purpose of this document is to provide digital Topographic data compilation specifications for the Australian Defence Force (ADF) which are applicable to all areas of the Area of Direct Military Interest (ADMI) for the collection of features and attributes to populate the ADF topographic database.6234.1 A four ringed Folder containing A4 Paper, White, Metal Bindings, Chapters 1 to 8 6234.2 A four ringed Folder containing A4 Paper, White, Metal Bindings, Chapters 8 to 13 and Annexesroyal australian survey corps, rasvy, fortuna, army survey regiment, army svy regt, asr, director of survey - army -
Bendigo Military Museum
Manual - Digital Topographic Data Compilation Specification - Part 1 Tactical Level Products, February 1995
These specifications enable the compilation of digital topographic data for the Australian Defence Force (ADF) to support the production of topographic information across a multiple product range covering Australia and its Area of Direct Military Interest (ADMI)A plastic covered four ring folder containing A4 paper, white, ten chapters, metal clip ringsroyal australian survey corps, rasvy, fortuna, army survey regiment, army svy regt, asr, director of survey-army -
Bendigo Military Museum
Manual - Notes on Map Reading 1929 - The War Office, 30.06.1939
Instruction in Map reading. The object of map - reading is to tender possible the clear and accurate visualization of the ground from a map productBrown Cardboard book, A5 Size, Several insets. Reprinted with Amendments 1-4 1939, 95 pages.royal australian survey corps, rasvy, fortuna, army survey regiment, army svy regt, asr -
4th/19th Prince of Wales's Light Horse Regiment Unit History Room
Book, Government Press and Survey of Egypt, A Brief Record of the Advance of the Egyptian Expeditionary Force Under the Command of General Sir Edmund H H Allenby GCB, GCMB. July 1917 to October 1918, 1919
Provides historical information about operations of Australian Light Horse units in the Middle EastSoft covered A4 book, 112 pages plus mapsIn front cover: Joan Rice (Flawley) 41 Arnold Drive Chelsea vic 3196world war 1, middle east, egyptian expeditionary force -
Wycheproof & District Historical Society Inc.
Bunguluke Map, Bunguluke District In 1923, 27.2.1923
By 1881 Bunguluke was a small settlement as recorded, December 5, in the Charlton "Mercury". It reports that in that year Draper's Store, Hotel and Post Office and residence at Bunguluke North was totally destroyed by fire. For years now there has been little sign of community life with houses few and far between and acreages have gone into larger holdings. The map references land blocks and owners for that era.This important map shows the local land ownership and local features that existed in 1923. This is a photocopied black and white map of Bunguluke in the County of Kara Kara, Number L5149. Marked - Photo Lithographed by W.J. Butson 27.2.1923. The details include numbers of allotments, property owners, roads, rivers. The boundaries marked are the Parish of Jeruk, Parish of Wycheproof, Parish of Cooroopajerrup. Wycheproof township location is shown with the Scale of Chains. Bunguluke maps for other years are also in the collection.map, bunguluke, jeruk, wycheproof, cooroopajerrup -
Kiewa Valley Historical Society
Set of 2 hand coloured photographs of early Mount Beauty, photographs of Mount Beauty, 1947/48
Construction of the town of Mount Beauty commenced in 1946 and continued until 1952. It was built to provide family accommodation for workers engaged in the construction of the hydro electric power scheme. As well as housing, there was an administration building, staff hostel, merchandising centre, workmen's camps, base stores and workshops and the Mount Beauty Terminal Station. The first house was occupied in November, 1946 by the then manager of the trading store, with a frontage onto Hollonds Street. The total number of houses erected was 488, 162 custom built and 326 prefabricated. The main workmen's camp can be seen just left of the centre of the photograph and accommodated 144 men at the time of the photograph. By 1950 it could accommodate 1200men. Photo No. 1 is taken in 1947/early 1948 as there is no evidence of the staff hostel under construction. This hostel was commenced in August/September 1948 and is clearly shown in photograph No. 2, dating this photo as 1948 as it is before the completion of the bypass road connecting to the main (high plains) road. This road was constructed in 1939 and in 1948 followed the route of Tawonga Crescent. This remained in use until the bypass construction was completed in early 1949 and does not appear to be finished in this photograph.. Both photographs are taken from the power line easement adjacent to the Bright road.Significant historical pictorial record of the development of a town from grazing land. The type of terrain that had to be surveyed and then to construct roads and other infrastructure, with very little machinery, is also of prime significance in the development of the Kiewa Hydro Electric Scheme.Two photographs, both hand painted to show colours, and both of Mount Beauty c 1947/48 not long after commencement of construction of homes and facilities for workers.Photo No.1 - on back of photo, left upper corner, faintly in pencil, SPIKE, underneath this is written T Pay,. Photo No. 2 - on back of photo, left upper corner, faintly in pencil, Jmount beauty, housing, accommodation -
Kiewa Valley Historical Society
Papers - Settlement Study - Mount Beauty 1971 x5, October 1971
Similar to a census for Mount Beauty in October 1971. Topics include Income, family, the town, society and travel outside the town.The results of the survey give an insight into the community of Mt Beauty after the SEC days, the infrastructure available and the activities of the population living in the town. This would also enable a comparison to be made before or after 1971.Typed papers on the Settlement Study results in Mt Beauty Oct. 1971. Each page gives the question asked and the number of people responding in each given area. The papers are dated October 1971.mt beauty, census 1971, statistics -
Kiewa Valley Historical Society
Book - Bogong High Plains x2, Early History and Discovery of the Bogong High Plains, 1968
The State Electricity Commission of Victoria constructed the Kiewa Hydro Electric Scheme in the north east of Victoria. Mr R.M. Duncan prepared the notes. He was a member of the S.E.C. Kiewa Branch from 1949 - 1966. This book was commissioned by the State Electricity Commission of Victoria. It consists of the early history of the Bogong High Plains and the origin of names of places and creeks in the area.This book was researched in 1968 by Mr R.M. Duncan who worked for the S.E.C. on the Kiewa Hydro Electric Scheme from 1949 to 1966. His sources were the Melbourne Public Library, the Victorian Historical Society, the North Eastern Victorian Historical Society and the Dept. of Crown Lands & Survey, Melbourne. The book is an accurate history of the Bogong High Plains given the available records at the time. Yellow cardboard covered book with black sketches and green print. 9 one-sided pages held together by 3 staples and taped over the staples. One - has sheets enclosed "The Three Floras of Bogong" and "General Geology of the Kiewa Area". 6 copies including 1 that is a photocopyDDTS hand written on front cover "Early History and Discovery / of the / Bogong High Plains" on cover top centre. "Settlement / of the / Kiewa-Valley" on cover towards the top slightly to the right. "Published by the / State Electricity Commission / of Victoria / July, 1968" on cover bottom left. "TR-K 596-4" on cover bottom left.bogong high plains. state electricity commission of victoria. kiewa. aborigines. kiewa valley. mullindollingong pastoral run. flora. geology -
Kiewa Valley Historical Society
Journals - S.E.C.V. 1936-1956, 1936 - 1956
The State Electricity Commission of Victoria published a journal every second month for all its workers throughout Victoria. Each 'project' reported their news, giving an update on work, sport, technical achievements, social gatherings, personal notices etc. The S.E.C. Journal included a regular section for the Kiewa Hydro Electric Scheme titled "Kiewa Keynotes" giving an insight into life & an update on the work on the project and the reporting of new clubs, services etc. being formed. It also reported on many of the people living there. Eg. Feb.-Mar. 1955 Cover "Packhorses get supply to Kiewa's survey outposts - Pg. 2. S.E.C.V. Journals covering the period of the Kiewa Hydro Electric Scheme. Each journal is about 33 pages with a soft card board or glossy paper cover. The earlier journals were plain with one colour and white , the later ones had a photo on the front. The journals were identified by Vol. & No. and months and year. state electricity commission of victoria. kiewa hydro electric scheme. kiewa valley. bogong. mt beauty. dams. power stations. -
The Beechworth Burke Museum
Geological specimen - Malachite, Unknown
Malachite is a green copper carbonate hydroxide mineral and was one of the first ores used to make copper metal. Malachite has been utilised as a gemstone and sculptural material in the past as its distinctive green color does not fade when exposed to light or after long periods of time. Malachite is formed at shallow depths in the ground, in the oxidizing zone above copper deposits. The material has also been used as a pigment for painting throughout history. This particular specimen was recovered from the Burra Burra Copper Mine in Burra, South Australia. Otherwise known as the 'Monster Mine', the Burra Burra Copper Mine was first established in 1848 upon the discovery of copper deposits in 1845. Within a few short years, people from around the world migrated to Burra to lay their claim in the copper economy. By April 1848 the mine was employing over 567 people and supporting a population of 1,500 in the local township. Up until 1860, the mine was the largest metals mine in Australia, producing approximately 50,000 tonnes of copper between 1845 to its closure in 1877. The Burra Burra Mine was also famous for a number of other specimens, including; crystalline azurite, cuprite, and botryoidal and malachite.Malachite is considered a rare gemstone in that the original deposits for the stones have been depleted leaving behind very few sources. In addition, the use of Malachite as gemstones and sculptural materials remains just as popular today as they were throughout history. It is quite common to cut the stone into beads for jewellery. The fact that Malachite has such a rich colour and one that does not fade with time or when exposed to light makes it particularly rare. This specimen is part of a larger collection of geological and mineral specimens collected from around Australia (and some parts of the world) and donated to the Burke Museum between 1868-1880. A large percentage of these specimens were collected in Victoria as part of the Geological Survey of Victoria that begun in 1852 (in response to the Gold Rush) to study and map the geology of Victoria. Collecting geological specimens was an important part of mapping and understanding the scientific makeup of the earth. Many of these specimens were sent to research and collecting organisations across Australia, including the Burke Museum, to educate and encourage further study. A solid hand-sized copper carbonate hydroxide mineral with shades of yellow, blue, and light green throughout.geological, geological specimen, burke museum, indigo shire, malachite, malachite specimen, burra burra mine, burra, south australia, australian mines, mines, monster mine -
The Beechworth Burke Museum
Geological specimen - Galena Chalcopyrite, Unknown
Galena Chalcopyrite is the earth's primary ore of lead and is mined from a large number of deposits in many countries. It is also an important source of silver. Galena Chalcopyrite is one of the most abundant and widely distributed sulfide minerals across the world. The mineral is found in igneous and metamorphic rocks in medium- to low-temperature hydrothermal veins. This specific specimen was recovered from the mines in Broken Hill, New South Wales. The mines in Broken Hill were first established after Charles Rasp discovered a large amount of silver-lead-zinc ore-body in the area in 1883. BHP (Broken Hill Proprietary) mining company was then established in 1885 and quickly became the lead in Australia's mining industry after they began excavating and exporting the country's largest amount of lead, silver, and zinc. This feat generated over $100 billion in wealth for the company.Galena Chalcopyrite is signifiant as it represents the catalyst for the rise of Australia's most influential mining companies - BHP. The mineral was one of the first to be mined in the country and after being made into lead, was used for a variety of things such as paint, batteries, ammunition, and plumbing materials before it was known to be harmful to humans. This specimen is part of a larger collection of geological and mineral specimens collected from around Australia (and some parts of the world) and donated to the Burke Museum between 1868-1880. A large percentage of these specimens were collected in Victoria as part of the Geological Survey of Victoria that begun in 1852 (in response to the Gold Rush) to study and map the geology of Victoria. Collecting geological specimens was an important part of mapping and understanding the scientific makeup of the earth. Many of these specimens were sent to research and collecting organisations across Australia, including the Burke Museum, to educate and encourage further study. A grey, solid hand-sized lead sulfide mineral with a silver metallic luster.burke museum, beechworth, geological, geological specimen, galena, galena chalcopyrite, chalcopyrite, broken hill, bhp, bhp mining, broken hill mine, mine, australia mine, lead, lead mine -
The Beechworth Burke Museum
Geological specimen - Feldspathic Sandstone
Feldspathic arenites are sandstones that contain less than 90% quartz, and more feldspar than unstable lithic fragments, and minor accessory minerals.Feldspathic sandstones are commonly immature or sub-mature.These sandstones occur in association with cratonic or stable shelf settings. Feldspathic sandstones are derived from granitic-type, primary crystalline, rocks. If the sandstone is dominantly plagioclase, then it is igneous in origin Sandstone features prominently in public buildings throughout Victoria. Most of the sandstone used as dimension stone in the State came from three sources: the Heatherlie quarry in the Grampians (Silurian), the Bacchus Marsh area (Permian), and the Barrabool Hills near Geelong (Cretaceous).Sandstone features prominently in public buildings throughout Victoria, making this specimen special as it shows the materials used by Victorian building companies. Sandstone can also be crushed, crushed stone is used in the construction of roadways and road structures such as bridges, and in buildings, both commercial and residential. This specimen is part of a larger collection of geological and mineral specimens collected from around Australia (and some parts of the world) and donated to the Burke Museum between 1868-1880. A large percentage of these specimens were collected in Victoria as part of the Geological Survey of Victoria that begun in 1852 (in response to the Gold Rush) to study and map the geology of Victoria. Collecting geological specimens was an important part of mapping and understanding the scientific makeup of the earth. Many of these specimens were sent to research and collecting organisations across Australia, including the Burke Museum, to educate and encourage further study. A feldspar-rich sandstone, a sandstone intermediate in composition between an arkosic sandstone and a quartz sandstone, containing 10% to 25% feldspar and less than 20% matrix material of clay, sericite, and chlorite. Feldspathic arenite containing less than 90 percent of the composition of quartz. Feldspar is the main composition. Feldspathic arenite may contain fragments of unstable rock, and a little amount of other minerals such as mica and heavy minerals. Some feldspathic arenite have pink or red color because of the presence of potassium feldspar or iron oxide. There are also colored light gray to white. These sandstones are usually medium to coarse grained and can contain a high percentage of granules with angular until subangular roundness. The content of the matrix can appear as the rest up to more than 15 percent, and sorting of grains can present as moderate to poorly sorted. Feldspathic sandstones are generally immature in textural maturity. Feldspathic arenite can not be judged from the structure of the sediment. Bedding can emerge from the laminate parallel to the crossbed. Fossils may appear in the layer deposited on the sea. Feldspathic arenites usually appear on the craton or the continental shelf, which can be associated with conglomerate, quartz lithic arenite, carbonate rock, or evaporites. This sandstone may also appear on the succession of sedimentary basins deposited on an unstable or deep sea, and moving arc setting. According to Pettijohn (1963) Arkose make up about 15 percent of all sandstones. Some Arkose formed in situ when the granite and related rocks disintegrate and generate granular sediments. Most of the material feldspathic sandstones derived from primary crystalline granitic rocks, such as granite or metasomatic rocks containing abundant potassium feldspar. Mineral contained in sandstones is mostly a form of plagioclase feldspar derived from quartz diorite or volcanic rock. Feldspar contained on this sandstone comes from arid to cool climates when the chemical weathering process is reduced.sandstone, natural stone, feldspathic sandstone, burke museum, geology, geological, geological specimen -
The Beechworth Burke Museum
Geological specimen - Ilvaite
Ilvaite has acquired its name from Ilva (Latin for Elba) Island, Greece, where Ilvaite is most commonly found. The geological setting in which Ilvaite occurs is through contact with magnetite, zinc and copper ore deposits, along with contact metamorphic deposits and zeolite zones. llvaite crystallizes in the form of black prismatic crystals and columns . This specimen was retrieved from Broken hill, known as the world's richest and largest zinc-lead ore deposit. Because of Ilvaite's often unaesthetic crystal formations compared to other minerals, Ilvaite is uncommon in most rock collections, particularly specimens that are not well formed, such as this one. Ilvaite is also a member of the Sorosilicate subclass of the silicate minerals, which have an unusual basic unit of Si2O7, making Ilvaite a unique mineral. Given that Ilvaite is not commonly found in Australia, it marks a unique contribution to an Australian collection of minerals. This specimen is part of a larger collection of geological and mineral specimens collected from around Australia (and some parts of the world) and donated to the Burke Museum between 1868-1880. A large percentage of these specimens were collected in Victoria as part of the Geological Survey of Victoria that begun in 1852 (in response to the Gold Rush) to study and map the geology of Victoria. Collecting geological specimens was an important part of mapping and understanding the scientific makeup of the earth. Many of these specimens were sent to research and collecting organisations across Australia, including the Burke Museum, to educate and encourage further study.A solid hand-sized ferrous iron analogue mineral with of black with shades of beige Ilvaite is a brittle, opaque rock formation that has acquired its name from Ilva (Latin for Elba) Island, Greece, where Ilvaite is most commonly found. The geological setting in which Ilvaite occurs is through contact with magnetite, zinc and copper ore deposits, along with contact metamorphic deposits and zeolite zones. llvaite crystallizes in the form of black prismatic crystals and columns rock, mineral, ilvaite, ilvaite specimen -
The Beechworth Burke Museum
Geological specimen - Loellingite in Rhodonite
Rhodonite is a reddish-pink manganese silicate material and often contains iron, magnesium and calcium. It is usually found in metamorphic rocks (rocks which have been altered by heat, pressure or chemical process). It can range in size from tiny to massive. Because of their composition they are not suitable for use in jewellery because they are hard enough. It is quite rare to find, though has been found in Australia, North America, South America and Europe.This specimen is part of a larger collection of geological and mineral specimens collected from around Australia (and some parts of the world) and donated to the Burke Museum between 1868-1880. A large percentage of these specimens were collected in Victoria as part of the Geological Survey of Victoria that begun in 1852 (in response to the Gold Rush) to study and map the geology of Victoria. Collecting geological specimens was an important part of mapping and understanding the scientific makeup of the earth. Many of these specimens were sent to research and collecting organisations across Australia, including the Burke Museum, to educate and encourage further study. This specimen is a palm shaped piece of loellingite within rhodonite. It is mostly reddish-pink coloured, with flecks of light and dark grey. Loellingite is a grey iron arsenide which often forms into crystal shapes. It is mostly found in mesothermal veins (caused by immense heat) with sulfides or in limestone. It is toxic when heated or struck. rhodonite, loellingite, burke museum, beechworth, geological survey of victoria -
The Beechworth Burke Museum
Geological specimen - Copper Ore
This specimen was recovered from Silverton Mine in Broken Hill, New South Wales. Otherwise known as the 'Day Dream Mine', the Silverton Mine was first established in 1883, when silver and lead deposits where discovered. Within a few short years, the population of Broken Hill reached 3000 people. As of today the Silverton Mine is still open, and has produced over 200 million tonnes of ore, which has generated over $100 billion. The Silverton Mine was also famous for a number of specimens such as silver, iron and zinc.Copper is considered to be a rare ore in that finding it in its pure form is rare. Nowadays when mining for Copper it is often found in mixed in with other minerals or it is recycled from use. Moreover, Copper is found in a range of everyday uses such as coins, cookware, pipes, heating conductors and anything that generate electricity. The fact that Copper is heat a heat conductor, electricity conductor and it does not corrode easily, makes this ore a versatile and useful. This specimen is part of a larger collection of geological and mineral specimens collected from around Australia (and some parts of the world) and donated to the Burke Museum between 1868-1880. A large percentage of these specimens were collected in Victoria as part of the Geological Survey of Victoria that begun in 1852 (in response to the Gold Rush) to study and map the geology of Victoria. Collecting geological specimens was an important part of mapping and understanding the scientific makeup of the earth. Many of these specimens were sent to research and collecting organisations across Australia, including the Burke Museum, to educate and encourage further study.A solid hand-sized cube-shaped sulfide and oxide with shades of green, grey and brown throughout. Copper is typically found as nuggets in the ground. It can be found in a range of forms such as its native state; mixed with other ores, such as zinc and iron; as porphyry copper deposits; and as major deposits. Porphyry deposits are when the mineral is scattered evenly throughout the rock. Major deposits are when the mineral is scattered amongst other minerals.burke museum, beechworth, indigo shire, beechworth musum, geological, geological specimen, mineraology, copper, copper ore, copper ore speciment, broken hill, new south wales -
The Beechworth Burke Museum
Geological specimen - Brown coal
This particular specimen was recovered from the Lal Lal Coal and Iron Mine in Victoria, 19km from Ballarat. Brown Coal was discovered here in 1857, just alongside the Geelong to Ballarat Railway line. This discovery of lignite (brown coal) was the first in Victoria, which would bring important benefits to the region and state, both of which had previously been reliant on coal imports. In the 1860s, iron ore was found just 5km from Lal Lal, and the area was converted into an Iron Ore Mine. The Lal Lal Iron Mining Company took over operations in 1874, who then peaked iron production in 1884. This mine continued operations until June 1884, when the blast furnace was extinguished and never recommenced. The blast furnace at Lal Lal is considered one of the most important and highly significant sites ion early industrial history in Australia, as it is the only remaining best furnace from the nineteenth century in the Southern Hemisphere. The furnace ruins are 17 metres high, and are clearly visible today on Iron Mine Road, Lal Lal, near the Bungal Dam. This specimen of Lignite (brown coal) is significant, as it was mined from the area where brown coal was first discovered in Victoria, leading to an important and controversial future of the mining and use of brown coal in this State. The Victorian Heritage Database has listed the Lal Lal Coal Mine with local significance, with their Statement of Significance stating: "The Lal Lal coal mine is historically significant as the site of the first discovery of lignite (brown coal) in Victoria, and one that promised important benefits to regional and state industries that were reliant on coal imports at the time. The significance of the stie is reduced by the poor state of preservation of the coal mining and processing fabric". This specimen is part of a larger collection of geological and mineral specimens collected from around Australia (and some parts of the world) and donated to the Burke Museum between 1868-1880. A large percentage of these specimens were collected in Victoria as part of the Geological Survey of Victoria that begun in 1852 (in response to the Gold Rush) to study and map the geology of Victoria. Collecting geological specimens was an important part of mapping and understanding the scientific makeup of the earth. Many of these specimens were sent to research and collecting organisations across Australia, including the Burke Museum, to educate and encourage further study.A hand-sized light-weight, soft and combustable sedimentary rock specimen, that is dark brown in colour. The specimen has jagged edges, as though parts of the rock have crumbled away. Brown coal, or Lignite, is formed naturally from compressed peat, and is typically found in natural basins. The stages to the formation of coal ('coalification') begin with plant material and wood, which will decay if it is not subjected to deep burial or heating, and turn into Peat. Peat, when sufficiently compressed naturally, will turn into Brown Coal (Lignite), and finally into Black Coal (sub-bituminous, bituminous and anthracite). Each successive stage has a higher energy content and lower water content. It is brownish-black in colour. Brown Coal has a high moisture content, between 50 and 75 percent, and a low carbon content. Some Brown Coals may be stratified, with layers of plant matter, which means little coalification has occurred beyond the peat natural processing stage. When Brown Coal is submerged in dilute nitric acid or boiling potassium hydroxide solution, it reacts to produce a reddish solution, of which higher-ranked coals do not. When brown coal is pulverised and burned in boilers, the steam is used to drive turbines, which generates electricity. It is the lowest rank of coal, as when burned, it creates a relatively low heat content, which in turn does not create a great output of steam. burke museum, beechworth, indigo shire, beechworth museum, geological, geological specimen, mineralogy, brown coal, brown coal specimen, lignite, lal lal, lal lal coal mine, lal lal iron mine, ballarat, blast furnace -
The Beechworth Burke Museum
Geological specimen - Precious Opal
In Australia, precious opal is found in Cretaceous age sandstones and mudstones. These sedimentary rocks were deeply weathered and this weathering released silica into the groundwater.Australia is the only part of the world where opalised animal and plant fossils have been found. Opal artefacts several thousands of years old have been discovered in East Africa. As early as 250 BC the Romans prized opals, thought to have come from mines in Eastern Europe, the ancient world's main source of opals. There are many aboriginal dreamtime stories that feature opal. Australian opals discovered during the late 1800's found little favour with European markets but their commercial value increased in the 1900's and in 1932 Australia took over as the major producer of opals in the world and remains the largest producer to this day. Opal is found around the world (Brazil, Mexico, Honduras and the western US) however Australia produces 95% of the world's precious opal and it is our official national gemstone. Opal was first mined commercially at Listowel Downs in Queensland in 1875 and later at White Cliffs in NSW. Today, Coober Pedy (SA) is the main producer of white opal, though in recent years this field has expanded and all types of opals are found. Other centres in SA include Andamooka and Mintabe. Lightning Ridge (NSW) is renowned for black opal and formerly White Cliffs was a large producer of high quality opal. Boulder opals (opals in concretionary ironstone) are mined in Queensland from numerous localities in a zone extending from the Eulo and Cunnamulla district in the south and northwest for a distance of over 700 km to Kynuna in the north. The towns of Quilpie, Yowah and Winton are the main opal mining and wholesale centres. Opals are considered gemstones and have been used in jewellery for thousands of years.Throughout much of history, opals were actually believed to be good luck. The Romans thought that opals were one of the luckiest gemstones and a symbol of hope. In the Middle Ages, opals were believed to be bestowed with all the positive properties of coloured gemstones due to its rainbow-like play of colour. Finally, there is a superstition that you should not wear an opal unless it is your birthstone otherwise misfortune will befall you. This, of course, is far-fetched, but the notion could have been promoted in the late 19th and early 20th Centuries by diamond traders who were trying to increase sales of diamonds and deter people from buying opals. Possibly related to this is the thought that you should set opal jewellery with diamonds as their powers of good fortune will override any negativity held by the opal. The great majority of opal does not show play of colour and is called common opal or potch however this is not the case with a precious opal. Opal is a precious gemstone, like rubies, emeralds or diamonds. Opal is rare, and it is expensive to prospect and mine for.Silica is one of the most common minerals on the planet, but precious opal is very rare – far more rare than diamonds. Precious opal is rare because the natural processes that create it rarely occur.Most (at least 95%) of the opal found by miners is common opal without gem colour. In Australia we call it potch. It can be white, grey, black or amber coloured. Even when a miner finds gem-coloured opal, most of it can’t be cut into gemstones because it’s too thin, or sandy. This specimen is part of a larger collection of geological and mineral specimens collected from around Australia (and some parts of the world) and donated to the Burke Museum between 1868-1880. A large percentage of these specimens were collected in Victoria as part of the Geological Survey of Victoria that begun in 1852 (in response to the Gold Rush) to study and map the geology of Victoria. Collecting geological specimens was an important part of mapping and understanding the scientific makeup of the earth. Many of these specimens were sent to research and collecting organisations across Australia, including the Burke Museum, to educate and encourage further study.It is not known where this opal originated, except that it is probably from Victoria, as it has been recorded from many localities in the State. Common Opal is formed from silica-rich water circulating through rocks near the Earth’s surface. It consists of minute spheres of silica arranged in different ways. In common opal, the spheres are of different sizes and randomly arranged, unlike in precious opal where the spheres are of similar size and uniformly arranged in three dimensions. These differences account for common opal generally being translucent to opaque and without the play of colours, or opalescence, displayed by precious opal. Common opal is found in many localities and different geological environments throughout Australia and the world. Precious opal requires special conditions to form and is much less common. Australia produces most to the world’s precious opal. burke museum, beechworth, indigo shire, beechworth museum, geological, geological specimen, precious opal, opal, brazil, mexico, honduras, queensland, coober pedy, gemstones, jewellery, play-of-colour, light blue