SUMMARY - Edna (Myers) Barrie, 1918 – 2018, Profile Early Life Edna was born at Melton and delivered by Hannah Watts. Her mother Martha walked in the dark at night with her basket under her arm to the bridge over the Toolern Creek Bridge and into Sherwin Street to the corner of Yuille Street to Hannah’s house Lynch Cottage. Martha’s husband was away shearing and eventually heard the news of the birth of their blue eyed third child and second daughter. She was born into a family that was surrounded by music; her father played the “squeeze box” and mother the mouth organ. From an early age the family were aware of the great composers, a framed picture of Beethoven, Chopin, Schubert and Wagner hung above the door to the lounge room of their 4 roomed cottage, the room where the piano stood. Her life on stage started as a singer aged 6 years at the Melton Mechanics Institute Hall. Edna was born with a natural ear for music learning piano and singing from her older sister Marjorie who became an accomplished pianist and soloist and renowned music teacher in Melton and district. In the 1920s and 1930s concerts at the Melton Mechanics Institute were regular events were the local talent was fostered. The Myers children, like other children of Melton and Rockbank, studied singing, piano and elocution, sat examinations, entered in competitions in South Street Ballarat, Footscray and Melbourne. In 1929 a Sacred Concert was broadcast by 3AR from the Hall as part of the Back to Melton Celebrations. Marjorie Myers performed two of the items on the piano. Edna attended Melton State School 430 from 1924 – 1933. Her father Fred had also attended the same school. In 1924 the School staged Cinderella at the Melton Mechanics Institute Hall with a cast of 33 students. After completing her education a Melton she boarded in South Melbourne and attending Melbourne Girls High School (MacRobertson Girls High School), a school which recognized her musical attributes. She travelled home on the train on the weekends, sometimes getting off at Rockbank to save a few pennies in fares. Working life The early 1930s the Depression was a difficult time for a young woman to find work. Jobs were often menial and given to the youngest and therefore cheapest applicant. She worked as sales assistant at Polonskis and Myer in the city, and Irvines Modes in Footscray. Working to 1pm on Saturday, and when held up by a customer meant missing the train home. While at Myer Department store she lived at home and rode her bike to the Melton railway station. On one occasion she had a nasty fall when a part of her bicycle came loose causing the bike to crash rendering her concussed and injuring her nose. During the 1930s she was given a camera “a little snap” by Mrs Kelly her landlady. This began her interest in photography documenting family life at their “Burnbank” home. Musically, while at Myers she participated in annual performances held at The Kings Hall and the Myer Mural Hall. Working in the basement at Myers she was often embarrassed when her name was called, customers assuming she belonged to the Myer Family. Ken Myer worked in the basement at the same time handling the ‘Wheeler’, a wicker basket used for moving goods around the store. The family philosophy was for the children to start at the bottom and work their way up. Social life Social life in her teenage years was connected also with Scots Presbyterian Church. She attended Sunday School classes and received book prizes for attendance. She loved to read and welcomed the times when she received new book. She took part in the Sunday School Anniversaries and was presented with a Bible from the Superintendent, Henry Robinson for her assistance with the music. Marriage and War years In 1941 Edna married Ernest “Bonnie” Barrie. War in the Pacific was soon to break out. While in Sydney on their honeymoon they met up with Jim Barrie who was on his way to Canada via Hawaii just missing Pearl Harbour by two days. Jim became a Spitfire Pilot and joined the RAF and was based in England. He returned to Australia later in RAAF to fight the Japanese off the coast of New Guinea. The three eldest Barrie brothers were farmers and food producers and were thus except from military service. Edna and Bon were members of the VAOC- Volunteer Air Observers Corp entailing being rostered on duty as plane spotters. The women took shifts during the day and the men at night which involved staying overnight in the Shire Offices. Later the spotting tower was built in the plantation opposite the Post Office. Edna and Bon carried on with this from their home in Ferris Rd when the threat of invasion had ceased Community life Community life in Melton revolved around fund raising events for the Melton Mechanics Institute for the War effort and keeping up with maintenance for the Hall. In 1944 the Minister for Health gave approval for the Shire of Melton to open and Infant Welfare Centre inviting Edna to form part of the Committee with seven other women. In 1948 she was President of Melton Branch of the Victorian Health Centres Association. She volunteered this use of her car driving the person in charge, Sister Smith to visit mothers and their babies. In 1963, along with Betty Jones and Isabel Snell, Edna was instrumental in forming the 1st Melton Cub Pack and later supported the formation of the 1st Melton Scouts. During 1963 – 1968 she completed the Australian Boy Scout Association Cub Pack Preliminary Training and achieved her Wood Badge. Country Women’s Association In 1944-1996 she was a member of the Melton Branch Country Women’s Association (CWA), Melton Branch, Secretary of the Branch in 1945 – 1946 and Branch International Secretary 1970-1971. She worked with choir, music and drama interest groups within the branch attaining both first and second place in 1959, second place in 1952 Exhibition and second in Music in 1960 in the state. She was involved in their handicraft craft events, fund raising and musical events and singing competitions. During the 1950s she trained Trios and Quartets in part singing for the CWA competitions in Ballarat and Melbourne. It was at this time that she developed her skill as a conductor and trainer of choirs. She later auditioned for the Victorian Choir for alto parts believing she would stand a better chance of being chosen, because of her ability to sing in natural harmony. In 1962 she participated in the Tenth Australian Country Women of the World (ACWW) Triennial Conference “Australia Presents: CWA Massed Choir” in the Melbourne Town Hall. This event was recorded by Super Sound Spotlight on 45 extended play vinyl record. The songs were Australian music and words, for example The Silver Stars are in the Sky, The Graceful Swaying Wattle and Kookaburra. Edna continued with her interest in the Victorian Choir regularly meeting at the CWA Headquarters in Toorak for rehearsals. In 1974 she took part in the Australian Choir at the fourteenth Triennial conference of the ACWW Interfaith Service held at the Perth Concert Hall on the 13th of October. Arts and Culture Edna was also in the Choir of 3KZ Carols by Candlelight at the Myer Music Bowl in 1963 and 1964. Melton Choral Society. Edna was Director and Conductor in the 1970s performing at many community events such as Carols by Candle Light, Church Services, Easter and Palm Sunday services, Mothers Union and the 1976 Community Services Week Combined Church Service. The October – November 1978 Program covered the following: songs from the Musicals, Choral and Solo with Narratives, Guest Instrumental Item, Recitation Negro Spirituals and Australian Songs. Her involvement with church choirs included the Scots Presbyterian Church Choir Easter and Christmas performances and the 1967 Centenary Service. In 1980s the Melton Uniting Church Sacred Music Performances included The Crucifixion by Stainer, The Olivet to Calvary and other church Hymns. Edna was Musical Director of the Melton Amateur Theatrical Society and worked on performances in collaboration with Mabel Rogers on script and musical interpretation. Melton and District Historical Society Annual Art and Craft Show. First held in Melton Mechanics Institute Hall in 1973, it later took place in the in the Melton Community Hall. The Art Show was also run in conjunction with other community organizations such as Rotary and Girl Guides. Community history and research Melton streetscape and society Over 20 years commencing in the 1970s, Edna undertook extensive photographing of the changing streetscape of Melton’s High Street. She anticipated the impact of change on the community during the time of Melton’s rapid transition from a small farming district to a large urban community and this led to her extensively document and photograph many of the structures and landscape features of the township that have since been lost. She also meticulously recorded much of the contemporary life of the town and has left a significant legacy of archival material. Melton State School 100 Years Celebration, October 1970 Co-author with Mabel Rogers “The First 100 Years, 1870 – 1970” Assembled a collection of School Class Photograph and identified and compiled lists of names for future school history. She also assembled a photographic display for the 125th anniversary in 1995. Melton and District Historical Society (M&DHS) Foundation Member, 1968 Held President and Secretary positions from its inception Research associated with the classification of Heritage buildings Christ Church Classification C Scots’ Presbyterian Church Classification D Set up the storage and Catalogue system in the Office at the Willows Organised society visits to Heritage sites in and beyond the Shire of Melton, including Stathtulloh, Eynesbury, Deanside, ToolernVale sites including Merrywood (now demolished) Staughton Vale, Chirnside, Point Cook, Shwerkolts Cottage. 1970 – 1983 Melton and District Historical Society Letterhead. Staughton Memorial Light from early newspaper cutting in its location before restoration to present location. Sketch by Wendy Barrie. Designing and printing pamphlets, stationery, and other sale items with Willows title. M&DHS street naming research for new housing developments (1970 – 2000). Collaborated with Mary Tolhurst to research the names of early landowners and pioneer families connected to the first settlers. Researched Aboriginal names for inclusion on lists submitted to developers. An early example is the naming of Kuranjang and the street names associated with the McPherson family. Plains of Promise (Shire of Melton history) by Joan Starr (1985). Edna assisted with Historical Society materials and contributed her own research and photographs. Contacted and organised for Hubert Opperman to launch the book. (She was also present at his last bike ride at Rochester in 1995.) Western Metropolitan Groups of Historical Societies. Member attending meetings and representing Melton, also hosted the Group at Melton The Willows Member of the Committee of Management for the restoration of the “Willows” house the establishment of The Willows Park 1982 March - Official Opening of the Willows Park- Preparation and planning for the event. Involved in the collecting of items in the furnishing of the display rooms in the Willows house. Donated items and furniture from the Myers and Daley family houses. (19th century) Machinery Shed Establishment. Involved with Jeff Robinson in the construction and collection of machinery display Other significant sites Championed and participated in the restoration and preservation significant sites in Melton, including: restoration of the Staughton Memorial Light and its return to its present site restoration of the Pykes Grave (using EW Barrie earthmoving equipment) restoration and reconstruction of Dunvegan restoration and reconstruction of Macs Cottage, the management and Caretakers residence Melton State School War Memorial Gates removed from Unitt Street entrance and relocated to the Willows Park Donated the Barrie family single furrow plough which was standing at the Court House Plaza. It removed and to Council Depot and later missing. The plaque was taken to the Willows. Jimmy Melrose (aviator) cairn restoration at crash site in Melton South Donald Mackintosh (Olympic gold medallist marksman) grave site at the Melton Cemetery (Historical items held by the Myers family collection.) Houdini first flight at Diggers Rest. Edna’s father was shearing at Diggers Rest at the time and witnessed the flight. She attended the 90 year anniversary of the event at the site in 2000. Radio and electronics Edna’s husband Bon interest in wireless communication dates in the 1920s with the building of a crystal set in the early days of public broadcasting. At the Back to Melton Celebrations in 1929, 3AR broadcast a concert from the Melton Mechanics Institute on the 20th February at 8pm featuring Footscray City Band, James Hill baritone, Vera Carew Soprano, James Foran Tenor, Marjorie Myers Piano, and James Williamson Entertainer. Accompanists: Miss Agnes Ross and Mrs James Hill. The Myers children had recordings of their piano playing made onto the aluminium records, Martha Myers’ voice can be heard introducing an item. These were made in a studio in Melbourne. Marjorie was given a upright Gramophone by Donald Mackintosh in recognition of her talent and her contribution to the cultural life of Melton. The family were then able to listen to 78rpm recordings of the famous classical recordings. The turntable was hand wound metal stylus needles had to be regularly replaced. The aluminium disk needed a bamboo needle to prevent damage to the surface. Before electricity was introduced to Melton in 1939 the Mechanics Hall relied on generators to produce electricity. Bon Barrie, being mechanically minded, built a public address system for be used a community functions at the Hall and Recreational Park. By 1939 this was up and running and used for over three decades. A large Collection of 78rpm records provided music for dances, marching, parades and any public event needing music and microphones. The early system was portable and worked on batteries. CFA Radio Communication In the 1950s with the introduction two-way HF and later VHF very high frequency radio sets. Melton Rural Fire Brigade was part of the Bacchus Marsh Group. Radio sets where located in the Melton Fire Truck, and in the house of the Barrie family at Ferris Road. This was an ideal location to observe a 360 degree view in all directions when smoke appeared on the horizon. An antenna was erected beside the house. The set OX 7 was located in the kitchen and monitored 24 hours by the family. When an electrical fire occurred at the junction of the electricity to the house there was time to radio the fire station and summons the men working in the paddocks, thus saving the house from possible destruction. With the introduction of UHF – ultra high frequency Vinten Radios the signal was clearer and static and interference lessened and radio traffic became easier to read, and reduced noise levels in the household. VL3 LY Radio Base became the Group Headquarters was established in 1967. By 1970 the Brigades were: Melton, Rockbank, Sydenham, Toolern Vale, Diggers Rest, Truganina, and Werribee. In 1974 when the family moved to First Avenue, another antenna and a small building were erected adjacent to the residence and used to house the equipment, maps. Radio traffic consisted of regular schedule times and communication with adjoining groups of brigades such as Bacchus Marsh, Mt Macedon and Little River Groups. Many of the brigade and group base radios were situated in private residences and operated primarily by fire fighters wives who held the position of Communications Officer, either registered as a brigade member or informally. Edna was never registered as an operational brigade member but operated informally as an assistant to her husband Bon. She was however a member of the Melton Fire Brigade Ladies Auxiliary from its inception in 1968, a non-operational position. Edna kept up to date with radio procedure following the 1967 handbook; preparing maps, plotting compass points and taking notes on weather forecasts from the SA Border and Western District. Daily notes were taken in anticipation of fire warnings. These log books and daily radio traffic were incidental to the regular radio schedules. Emergency turnouts noted, burning off times and predicted location of smoke. In the summer fire season all TBF (total fire ban days were recorded.) In times of emergency the Barrie family assisted Bon the base radio operator to plot the position and location of fire trucks and to help clarify garbled radio traffic, keep notes and make telephone calls. These log books are held in the EE and EW Family Archive. Melton Uniting Church Edna founded the Church Opportunity with Maisie Robinson in 1975 in the Melton South Methodist Church building. Methodist and Presbyterian Churches of Melton had combined severing their long held connection with Bacchus Marsh. A Manse had been recently built for the Melton Minister. At a Parish Committee meeting at the Melton South Church it was suggested to use the building as an Opportunity Shop. It opened in July 1975, and it raised $1,600 contribution to the church budget in 1976. In 1977 The Uniting Church in Australia was formed and the Melton South Uniting Church Opportunity shop continued to go from strength to strength expanding the buildings providing the welfare needs of the community. Archive Set up by Edna Catalogued items dating from 1857 Minute Book and set ongoing system and storage of items of heritage. Melton Un Awards and recognition of service to the Melton community Rotary Award for Community Service, 1980 Victoria 150th Anniversary Celebrations contributions, 1985 Life Membership of the Melton and District Historical Society (M&DHS), 1989 Extra-Ordinary Contribution for years of service to M&DHS, 1992 Long Service for Exceptional Service MD&HS, 1993 Royal Historical Society of Victoria Award of Merit, 1997 Shire of Melton Certificate of Appreciation for continued support and dedication as a member of MD&HS to the preservation of Melton’s History, 1998 Centenary of Federation Peoplescape (Canberra) Melton Shire nomination, 2001 Uniting Church Melton Life Membership of the Opportunity Shop Uniting Church in Australia Commission for Mission for 30 years of hard work and dedications to the Uniting Church, 2007 Uniting Church Adult Fellowship Certificate appreciation in recognition of valuable support through the “Sammy” Stamp Fund Neighbourhood Watch 5 year award Photographs of Edna at different ageslocal identities

Distributed to nurses during campaigning for improved wages and working conditions in the 1980s, possibly during the historic 1986 Victorian 50-day nurses strike. The Royal Australian Nursing Federation (RANF) became the Australian Nursing Federation in 1989, suggesting that this button is from the late 1980s. Similar to the badges worn in this photo [https://stories.anmfvic.asn.au/86strike/media/2560-1440-landscape-sec2-contentb-hr_logwf7a.jpg] from 1986 (see individual on the far right).Circular white and blue plastic button. Silver metal, plastic-coated, with safety pin fastener adhered to back. Button printed with 'KEEP NURSES NURSING - Improve Nurses' Conditions' and 'R.A.N.F. [Royal Australian Nursing Federation] Vic. [Victorian] Branch'.nursing, industrial action, strike action, unionism, badges, nurses, buttons, pins, campaigning, trade unions, labour history

Distributed to nurses during campaigning for improved wages and working conditions in the 1980s, possibly during the historic 1986 Victorian 50-day nurses strike. The Royal Australian Nursing Federation (RANF) became the Australian Nursing Federation in 1989, suggesting that this button is from the late 1980s. Similar to the badges worn in this photo [https://stories.anmfvic.asn.au/86strike/media/2560-1440-landscape-sec2-contentb-hr_logwf7a.jpg] from 1986 (see individual on the far right). (Unknown) former owner of badge has written a 'DE' and 'd' with black permanent marker on the badge to spell 'Don't ask me, I'm a degraded nurse'.Circular white and blue plastic badge, customised with black permanent marker. Silver metal, plastic-coated, with safety pin fastener adhered to back. Badge printed with 'Don't ask me, I'm a Grade 1 nurse' and 'R.A.N.F. [Royal Australian Nursing Federation] Vic. [Victorian] Branch'.Former owner of badge has written a 'DE' and 'd' with black permanent marker on the badge to spell 'Don't ask me, I'm a degraded nurse'.nursing, industrial action, nurses, strike action, unionism, badges, buttons, pins, campaigning, 1986 victorian nurses strike, trade unions, labour history

Distributed to nurses during campaigning for improved wages and working conditions in the 1980s, possibly during the historic 1986 Victorian 50-day nurses strike. The title for a 'Grade 1' nurse is now a 'Division 1' or (more commonly) 'Registered Nurse'. The Royal Australian Nursing Federation (RANF) became the Australian Nursing Federation in 1989, suggesting that this button is from the late 1980s. Similar to the badges worn in this photo [https://stories.anmfvic.asn.au/86strike/media/2560-1440-landscape-sec2-contentb-hr_logwf7a.jpg] from 1986 (see individual on the far right).Circular blue and white plastic button. Silver metal, plastic-coated, with safety pin fastener adhered to back. Button printed with 'Don't ask me, I'm a Grade 1 nurse' and 'R.A.N.F. [Royal Australian Nursing Federation] Vic. [Victorian] Branch'.nursing, industrial action, nurses, strike action, unionism, badges, buttons, pins, campaigning, 1986 victorian nurses strike, trade unions, labour history

Created and distributed by the Midwives Action Group, a Special Interest Group of the Royal Australian Nursing Federation (now the Australian Nursing and Midwifery Federation). The phrase on the badge, 'midwives make it a labour of love' is drawing attention to the inadequate working conditions and wages that the Royal Australian Nursing Federation was campaigning to improve. The Royal Australian Nursing Federation (RANF) became the Australian Nursing Federation in 1989, suggesting that this badge is from the late 1980s.Circular blue and white plastic badge. Silver metal, plastic-coated, with safety pin fastener adhered to back. Badge printed with 'MIDWIVES ACTION GROUP', 'MIDWIVES MAKE IT A LABOUR OF LOVE' and 'R.A.N.F. [Royal Australian Nursing Federation] Vic. [Victorian] Branch'.midwives, midwifery, nurses, nursing, midwives action group, royal australian nursing federation, trade unions, unionism, labour history

Distributed to nurses during campaigning for improved wages and working conditions in the 1980s, possibly during the historic 1986 Victorian 50-day nurses strike. The title for a 'Grade 1' nurse is now a 'Division 1' or (more commonly) 'Registered Nurse'. The Royal Australian Nursing Federation (RANF) became the Australian Nursing Federation in 1989, suggesting that this button is from the late 1980s. Similar to the badges worn in this photo [https://stories.anmfvic.asn.au/86strike/media/2560-1440-landscape-sec2-contentb-hr_logwf7a.jpg] from 1986 (see individual on the far right).Circular white and blue plastic badge. Silver metal, plastic-coated, with safety pin fastener adhered to back. Badge printed with 'Don't ask me, I'm a Grade 1 nurse' and 'R.A.N.F. [Royal Australian Nursing Federation] Vic. [Victorian] Branch'.nursing, nurses, industrial action, strike action, unionism, badges, buttons, pins, campaigning, 1986 victorian nurses strike, trade unions, labour history, royal australian nursing federation

Distributed to nurses during campaigning for improved wages and working conditions in the 1980s, probably during the historic 1986 Victorian 50-day nurses strike. Irene Bolger was elected Secretary of the Victorian Branch of the Royal Australian Nursing Federation from May 1986 to 1989. Renowned for her leadership during the historic 1986 Victorian 50-day nurses strike, she later became a barrister, primarily representing underprivileged clients. This badge was likely worn by members supporting Bolger's militant and divisive position on the strike.Round white and red plastic badge. Silver metal, plastic-coated, with safety pin fastener adhered to back. Badge printed with 'Irene Bolger's Nurses Liberation Front'.nurse, nursing, nurses, industrial action, irene bolger, strike action, unionism, badges, buttons, pins, campaigns, campaigning, trade unions, labour history, 1986 victorian nurses strike, royal australian nursing federation

Distributed to nurses during campaigning for improved wages and working conditions in the 1980s, possibly during the historic 1986 Victorian 50-day nurses strike. The text on the button, 'I SUPPORT R.A.N.F.' suggests that this badge was also distributed to members of the union movement and broader public to build community support for industrial action taken by nurses. The Royal Australian Nursing Federation (RANF) became the Australian Nursing Federation in 1989, suggesting that this button is from the late 1980s.Circular red and white plastic button. Silver metal, plastic-coated, with safety pin fastener adhered to back. Button printed with 'I SUPPORT R.A.N.F. [Royal Australian Nursing Federation]' and 'R.A.N.F. Vic. [Victoria]'.nursing, nurses, industrial action, strike action, community, unionism, trade unions, badges, buttons, pins, campaigning, 1986 victorian nurses strike, labour history, royal australian nursing federation

Distributed to nurses during campaigning for improved wages and working conditions in the 1980s, probably during the historic 1986 Victorian 50-day nurses strike. The 'White' in 'WHITE LIES' refers to David Ronald White, who was a state M.P. and the Victorian Minister for Health from 1985-1989. David White regularly featured in Branch newsletters around the time of the strike, and was regularly portrayed as a magician, skilled in 'white magic' that made 'nurses wages disappear'. The Royal Australian Nursing Federation (RANF) became the Australian Nursing Federation in 1989, suggesting that this button is from the late 1980s.Circular blue and white plastic button. Silver metal, plastic-coated, with safety pin fastener adhered to back. Button printed with 'WHITE LIES = WAGE CASUALTIES' and 'R.A.N.F. [Royal Australian Nursing Federation] Vic. [Victoria]'.nursing, nurses, industrial action, strike action, unionism, david white, health minister, badges, victoria, buttons, pins, campaigning, protest, trade unions, labour history

Distributed to nurses during campaigning for improved workloads and wages in the 1980s, possibly during the historic 1986 Victorian 50-day nurses strike. During the 1970s and 1980s, the state of Victoria had an acute nursing shortage, and patient workloads were unsafe. Throughout the 1980s, Victorian nurses took drastic industrial action to improve wages and conditions, culminating in the historic 50-day strike in 1986. The Royal Australian Nursing Federation (RANF) became the Australian Nursing Federation in 1989, suggesting that this button is from the late 1980s.Circular white and blue plastic badge. Silver metal, plastic-coated, with safety pin fastener adhered to back. Badge printed with 'R.A.N.F. [Royal Australian Nursing Federation]' and 'Vic. [Victorian] Branch', as well as the text 'Overworked Nurses = Undercared Patients'.nursing, nurses, industrial action, strike action, unionism, badges, buttons, pins, campaigning, 1986 victorian nurses strike, trade unions, labour history, royal australian nursing federation, victoria, 1980s

Distributed to nurses during campaigning for improved wages and working conditions in the 1980s, possibly during the historic 1986 Victorian 50-day nurses strike. 'Charge Nurse' refers to a Nurse Manager, and is less commonly used in Australia presently (it is still widely used in North America). The badge's message aims to inform the public that highly experienced and skilled nurses are leaving the profession due to inadequate wages and poor working conditions. The Royal Australian Nursing Federation (RANF) became the Australian Nursing Federation in 1989, suggesting that this button is from the late 1980s. Similar to the badges worn in this photo [https://stories.anmfvic.asn.au/86strike/media/2560-1440-landscape-sec2-contentb-hr_logwf7a.jpg] from 1986 (see individual on the far right).Circular white and blue plastic badge. Silver metal, plastic-coated, with safety pin fastener adhered to back. Badge printed with 'I used to be a Charge Nurse' and 'R.A.N.F. [Royal Australian Nursing Federation] Vic. [Victorian] Branch'.nursing, nurses, industrial action, strike action, unionism, trade unions, badges, buttons, pins, campaigning, 1986 victorian nurses strike, labour history, royal australian nursing federation, victoria, australia

Distributed to nurses who took part in campaigning for improved wages and working conditions in the 1980s, particularly those involved in the historic 1986 Victorian 50-day nurses strike. In October 1986, Victorian nurses began their longest strike after the failure of repeated talks with the health minister David White who was committed to reducing the classification and pay of almost half of Victoria’s nurses. Skeleton staff were left in the wards while picket lines, tents and caravans were set up outside hospitals in both metropolitan and regional Victoria. After 50 days of industrial action, Victorian nurses voted to return to work on 20 December 1986. The Royal Australian Nursing Federation (RANF) became the Australian Nursing Federation in 1989, and the strike concluded in December 1986, suggesting this badge was produced sometime between 1987 and 1989.Circular red and white plastic badge. Silver metal, plastic-coated, with safety pin fastener adhered to back. Badge printed with 'I FOUGHT NURSES STRIKE 1986' and 'R.A.N.F. [Royal Australian Nursing Federation] Vic. [Victorian] Branch'.nursing, nurses, industrial action, strike action, unionism, badges, buttons, pins, campaigning, 1986 victorian nurses strike, trade unions, labour history, royal australian nursing federation

Distributed to nurses during campaigning for improved wages and working conditions in the 1980s, possibly during the historic 1986 Victorian 50-day nurses strike. In October 1986, Victorian nurses began their longest strike after the failure of repeated talks with the health minister David White who was committed to reducing the classification and pay of almost half of Victoria’s nurses. Skeleton staff were left in the wards while picket lines, tents and caravans were set up outside hospitals in both metropolitan and regional Victoria. After 50 days of industrial action, Victorian nurses voted to return to work on 20 December 1986. The Royal Australian Nursing Federation (RANF) became the Australian Nursing Federation in 1989, suggesting that this button is from the late 1980s. Similar to the badges worn in this photo [https://stories.anmfvic.asn.au/86strike/media/2560-1440-landscape-sec2-contentb-hr_logwf7a.jpg] from 1986 (see individual on the far right).This badge is of historic significance as it represents nurses' struggle for industrial and professional status. This struggle was made particularly visible through the 1986 Victorian nurses' strike, which had great impact on the way Australian society viewed nurses and working women (Bessant, 1992).Circular white and red plastic badge. Silver metal, plastic-coated, with safety pin fastener adhered to back. Badge printed with 'Nurses DO dare to Struggle' and 'R.A.N.F. [Royal Australian Nursing Federation] Vic. [Victorian] Branch'.nursing, nurses, industrial action, strike action, unionism, trade unions, badges, buttons, pins, campaigning, 1986 victorian nurses strike, labour history, royal australian nursing federation, victoria, australia

Pin given to, and worn by, student nurse members of the Royal Australian Nursing Federation (R.A.N.F.). This badge is likely from a period when nursing education was moving from hospital-based training to tertiary settings. A 2013 report from the Federal Department of Health provides this following overview of nursing education: "during the mid-1980s, nursing education commenced a period of change from being hospital-based to being conducted in tertiary settings, with practical clinical experience components. By 1993, all registered nursing students in Australia were entering the profession via the university education pathway". The Royal Australian Nursing Federation (RANF) became the Australian Nursing Federation in 1989, suggesting that this button is from the 1980s.Oval-shaped green, red and gold pin. pin printed with 'R.A.N.F.' [Royal Australian Nursing Federation], 'STUDENT NURSE UNIT', and the acronym 'SNU' in the shape of Australia.nursing, nurses, students, education, badges, pins, nursing history, royal australian nursing federation

Metal cased drive in speakersThese were common speakers around Australia and were often replacement speakers for those that were lost, broken or stolen. In later years (1980s) they could be found in Village, Hoyts, Greater Union and independent drive-ins.

The history of Murray Breweries Pty Ltd is intertwined with that of several northeast Victorian breweries and in particular that of the Albury Brewing and Malting Company and Billson’s Brewery which still operates in Beechworth. George Billson Jr. took over the “Albury and Wodonga Breweries" in 1879. His brother, Alfred Arthur Billson, took over the Beechworth brewery in 1882, trading as A A Billson and Co. In July 1888, George Billson combined his two breweries as the Albury Brewing and Malting Company Ltd. In 1911 the brothers combined to become Border United Co-operative Breweries Ltd. Towards the end of 1914, this company was liquidated and its operations transferred to the newly registered Murray Breweries Pty. Ltd. Murray Breweries immediately began down-sizing, closing the Tallangatta factory at the end of 1914, and selling the Albury brewery (which no longer brewed due to poor water quality) in 1920. The first half the twentieth century saw a decline in the production of alcoholic beverages, partly due to the Beer Excise tax of 1901 and competition from Melbourne breweries. The Temperance movement of the 1920s also pushed Murray Breweries to focus on the brewing of non-alcoholic cordials and aerated drinks. They also continued to produce the non-alcoholic herbal beer Ecks until the 1980s. In the closing decades of the 20th century the Brewery produced and home-delivered soft drinks, which were eventually replaced by bulk spring water sales and delivery under the name ‘Snowline mountain spring water.’ This artifact is representative of tradition manufacturing industries in Northeast Victoria.A clear glass lemonade bottle bearing the logo of Murray Breweries of Beechworth. The initials "MB" form an oval shape below a white crown. It has a diamond embossed design both above and below the logo. There is also detailed information about the ingredients on one side. The glass has a metal cap.On front: in a white oval, black initials MB. In the middle section: a white crown above a black oval with initials "MB" above "LEMONADE" in black text. On reverse side in white text: "MB/ PRESERVATIVE ADDED/ LEMONADE/ THIS BEVERAGE IS MADE/ FR.OM AUSTRALIA'S/ FINEST LEMONS BLEND-/ ED BY AN EXCLUSIVE/ PROCESS WITH PURE/ MOUNTAIN SPRING/ WATER, THIS DELIGHTFUL /FLAVOUR HAS NO EQUAL. / MANUFACTURED BY/ MURRAY BREWERIES / BEECHWORTH, VICTORIA/ Net Contents 26 Fl. Oz."murray breweries, aerated drinks, breweries northeast victoria, billsons

In 1885 John Francis Brown first planted 10 acres of vines in Milawa, Victoria. Brown Brothers was founded in 1889 when the vines were ready to produce their first crop, as John hoped his brothers would join him in this new and promising venture. This did not happen but the name remained. Since 1899 Brown Brothers has grown into one of Australia’s largest family-owned wine businesses and now operates several vineyards in Victoria and Tasmania. These ceramic jars were used by Brown Brothers in the 1970s and 1980s to package Port, Muscat and Tokay. Fortified wines packaged in this manner would maintain their quality for decades as long as the wax seal was unbroken. Elischer Pottery was started in Sandringham, Melbourne Victoria in 1947 by well-known sculptor John (Johann Wolfgang) Elischer (1891-1966) and his son, also named John, (known as Wolly). John (Snr) was born in Vienna and trained at the Academy of Vienna from 1908 to 1911 and was an Associate of the Royal Academy Vienna. John (Senior) died in 1966 and the business was continued by his son John (Wolly), until 1987 when it was sold. Prior to that, at some time, he started making pieces the brand NCP. The business continues today as “Unique Ceramics” in Highett, Victoria. They continue to use the “Elischer” brand on some of their products.This jug is representative of an historic and continuing leading Australian Winemaker located in Northeast Victoria.An earthenware wine jug created for Brown Brothers Milawa Vineyard manufactured by John Elischer Pottery. The jug has a tradition loop handle. The bottom half of the jug is a traditional beige colour with a darker brown top section. The logo is imprinted in black and is covered in a clear glaze. The cork stopper is still intact although before being opened would have been sealed with wax.Company logo on one side: at top a central male image between the text "Founding Father /John F Brown. In a central oval around the name "Milawa", BROWN BROTHERS/ VINEYARD AUSTRALIA" On base: "97"brown brothers milawa, elischer pottery, northeast victorian wineries

All Saints Estate is a family-owned winery established in 1864 and located on the banks of the Murray River in Wahgunyah, Northeast Victoria. Original owners George Sutherland Smith, and John Banks, arrived from Caithness, Scotland in 1852. After being involved in a range of enterprises, they established the vineyard, including a castle based on the design of The Castle of Mey in Scotland, which was built in 1864. In 1873 in London, Sutherland Smith became the first Australian winemaker to win an award at an overseas wine show. Banks died in 1876 and All Saints remained in the hands of G. Sutherland Smith and his family, until after some variable fortunes in the late 1980s, it fell into the hands of a syndicate in 1989. After being passed in at a receiver’s auction in 1991, All Saints was acquired by Brown Brothers of Milawa in 1992. It is now owned and operated by the children of Peter R. Brown. During the early 1980s, All Saints took bulk orders for different corporations such as Ansett Air Freight, packaging them in jugs as this for special occasions or functions.This jug is representative of an historic and continuing leading Australian Winemaker located in Northeast Victoria.A pottery wine jug of tradition colours featuring a lower half of natural earthenware colour and a brown glazed top section. It has a loop handle and a cork closure. Originally it also had a wax seal closure. Company information and logos are featured on each side.On side 1: "All Saints / WAHGUNYAH, NORTH EAST VICTORIA/ Tawny Port / G. SUTHERLAND SMITH & SONS / 17.5% ALC/VOL. PRODUCE OF AUSTRALIA 750 ML" On reverse side: Below an image of an Ansett Airfreight Aeroplane: "We offer to you our warmest, / best wishes for the Christmas Season/ and a year of continued/ peace and prosperity. / Merry Christmas, / from Ansett Air Freight." Underneath the jug: " Elischer / AUSTRALIA" all saints estate, australian wine industry, north east victoria wineries, viticulture australia

The Seppelt company was founded in the Barossa Valley in 1851 by Joseph Seppelt, a German immigrant. In 1902 the family business was registered as B. Seppelt & Sons Ltd. As part of the expansion of this successful business, they acquired the Clydeside Cellars in Rutherglen from the estate of Mr. David G. Hamilton in 1914.,Due to changing conditions the vineyards were sold in the 1980s and all stock taken back to their property at Seppeltsfield in South Australia. From 1984 until the present, the Cellars in Rutherglen has had several operators including Jolimont Cellars (Doug Shears), Tony Lamb and 2 different Asian-owned conglomerates operating as Rutherglen Estates. In 2018 Rutherglen Estate was purchased by De Bortoli Family Winemakers of Griffiths, NSWThis jug is representative of leading pioneers and companies in the Australian Wine industry located in Northeast Victoria.A ceramic wine carafe produced by the House of Seppelt. It features the coat of arms of the House of Seppelt on one side and a portrait of Benno Seppelt on the opposite side. The lower section of the carafe is beige in colour and the top half, coat of arms and portrait are in blue. THE HOUSE OF / SEPPELTb. seppelt & son, australian wine industry, northeast victorian wineries

Clydeside Cellar was established by David G. Hamilton, a Scotsman who migrated to the Rutherglen district in 1861. He established a large business including a general store and vineyards. The Hamilton Clydeside brick cellars were built beginning in 1886 and completed in 1892. In August 1914, Messrs B. Seppelt and Sons Ltd. purchased Clydeside Cellars from the Mr. Hamilton’s estate. Due to changing conditions the vineyards were sold in the 1980s and all stock taken back to their property at Seppeltsfield in South Australia. From 1984 until the present the former Clydeside Cellar had several operators including Jolimont Cellars (Doug Shears), Tony Lamb and the 2 different Asian owned conglomerates operating as Rutherglen Estates. In 2018 Rutherglen Estate was purchased by De Bortoli Family Winemakers of Griffiths, NSW.This jug is representative of an historic and Australian Winemaker located in Northeast Victoria.An earthenware wine jug produced the House of Seppelt Clydeside Cellar at Rutherglen, VIctoria. The jug has a tradition loop handle and cork stopper.The bottom half of the jug is a traditional beige colour with a blue section. There are images in black on both sides of the jug. Originally it would have had a wax seal over the stopper to preserve effective closure to protect the contents from any chance of seepage.On front: "THE HOUSE OF SEPPELT" beneath an image of a Clydesdale drawn beer cart and driver. The image is surrounded by a representation of a horse harness containing the text "CLYDESIDE WINE CELLAR/ RUTHERGLEN" On reverse: an image of horse-drawn beer wagons and workers in front of buildings. Across the front of the building "CLYDESIDE CELLARS RUTHERGLEN / B. SEPPELT & SONS LTD."northeast victorian wineries, clydeside cellar, b. seppelt & son

Historical information Sarah Coventry Pty. Ltd. was a North American jewellery company that was established in 1949 by the Stuart family as part of Emmons Jewelry, Inc. It began operations in England and Australia in 1968, and in Australia it moved from Carlton in Melbourne to Wodonga in 1969. The premises were originally on High St. in Wodonga, but a new warehouse was built in Melbourne Rd. later in 1969. It was a direct selling jewellery business using a party-plan model similar to Tupperware and Avon. The sales reps or 'Hostesses' were provided with jewellery samples in demonstration kits, which they displayed at jewellery parties in their homes. The designs for jewellery such as brooches, necklaces, earrings, chokers and bracelets were purchased from freelance designers and jewellery manufacturers rather than in-house designers. In 1979 Sarah Coventry Pty. Ltd. in Wodonga was bought by three Australian businessmen, including Wodonga local Jim Sawyer, and continued to sell jewellery under the name "Sargem Pty. Ltd”, for several more years in the 1980s.As part of the Sarah Coventry collection, the necklace has local significance with the decentralised commercial development of regional centres such as Wodonga in NE Victoria, as well as national and international significance from the perspective of social and economic developments for women after World War II. The direct selling party-plan business model Sarah Coventry was based on is also considered the first of its kind for jewellery.Necklace with three strands of faux pearls and a large faux green stone at the silver toned metal clasp on the front, and a large faux pearl at the clasp on the back. includes box featuring Sarah Coventry brandingOn outside of box : "Sarah Coventry® /PTY. LTD. /WODONGA, VICTORIA On inside of lid: "Sarah Coventry" On internal cardboard mounting: "Made in Canada / Sarah Coventry Pty., Ltd. / WODONGA (SC) VICTORIAsarah coventry, costume jewellery, industry wodonga

Historical information Sarah Coventry Pty. Ltd. was a North American jewellery company that was established in 1949 by the Stuart family as part of Emmons Jewelry, Inc. It began operations in England and Australia in 1968, and in Australia it moved from Carlton in Melbourne to Wodonga in 1969. The premises were originally on High St. in Wodonga, but a new warehouse was built in Melbourne Rd. later in 1969. It was a direct selling jewellery business using a party-plan model similar to Tupperware and Avon. The sales reps or 'Hostesses' were provided with jewellery samples in demonstration kits, which they displayed at jewellery parties in their homes. The designs for jewellery such as brooches, necklaces, earrings, chokers and bracelets were purchased from freelance designers and jewellery manufacturers rather than in-house designers. In 1979 Sarah Coventry Pty. Ltd. in Wodonga was bought by three Australian businessmen, including Wodonga local Jim Sawyer, and continued to sell jewellery under the name "Sargem Pty. Ltd”, for several more years in the 1980s. The "Aristocrat" line was first released in Canada in 1969 for several years. It was distributed from the outlet at Sarah Coventry Park, Wodonga.As part of the Sarah Coventry collection, the tie pin has local significance with the decentralised commercial development of regional centres such as Wodonga in NE Victoria, as well as national and international significance from the perspective of social and economic developments for women after World War II. The direct selling party-plan business model Sarah Coventry was based on is also considered the first of its kind for jewellery.A small square tie pin of silvertone plated metal with an ice blue rhinestone in the centre. A short chain and clip are attached. A small diamond shape has the "SarCov" brand on the back. The pin is in its original packaging of a cardboard box with clear central oval on the front. The back of the box bears the Sarah Coventry branding as does the internal card.On internal mounting card: "Made in Canada/ Sarah Coventry Pty. Ltd / WODONGA (SC) VICTORIA" On back of box: "Sarah Coventry® PTY. LTD / SARAH COVENTRY PARK/ WODONGA, VICTORIA / PTD IN AUST"sarah coventry wodonga, men's fashion accessories, costume jewellery

Historical information Sarah Coventry Pty. Ltd. was a North American jewellery company that was established in 1949 by the Stuart family as part of Emmons Jewelry, Inc. It began operations in England and Australia in 1968, and in Australia it moved from Carlton in Melbourne to Wodonga in 1969. The premises were originally on High St. in Wodonga, but a new warehouse was built in Melbourne Rd. later in 1969. It was a direct selling jewellery business using a party-plan model similar to Tupperware and Avon. The sales reps or 'Hostesses' were provided with jewellery samples in demonstration kits, which they displayed at jewellery parties in their homes. The designs for jewellery such as brooches, necklaces, earrings, chokers and bracelets were purchased from freelance designers and jewellery manufacturers rather than in-house designers. In 1979 Sarah Coventry Pty. Ltd. in Wodonga was bought by three Australian businessmen, including Wodonga local Jim Sawyer, and continued to sell jewellery under the name "Sar*gem Pty. Ltd”, for several more years in the 1980s, along with a new range of fashion jewellery, Affinity. This catalogue was produced by Sar*gem Pty Ltd in 1982As part of the Sarah Coventry collection, the catalogue has local significance connected to the decentralised commercial development of regional centres such as Wodonga in NE Victoria, as well as national and international significance from the perspective of social and economic developments for women after World War II. The direct selling party-plan business model Sarah Coventry was based on is also considered the first of its kind for jewellery. A coloured catalogue promoting the Affinity Jewellery line released in 1982. The back cover features a fundraising campaign for the Guide Dog Association. Business contact details on the back cover use the company name "Sar*Gem Pty Ltd", Hume Highway Wodonga.sarah coventry, sarah coventry wodonga, sarah coventry affinity

A small booklet with blue and white cover and a representation of 2 croquet mallets and 3 coloured balls. Black and white photos are included.non-fictionThis publication provides a social history of the Wodonga Croquet Club which was founded in 1924. It outlines key figures in the development of the club and stages in its regrowth. After experiencing a decline in numbers, the club was rejuvenated when it joined the North Eastern District Croquet Association in 1960. Little is known of the club in the 1970s and 1980s, but it was re-established and re-joined the Victorian Croquet Association in 2000.SInce then it has successfully hosted the Victorian Regional Championships and the Australian Championships in Wodonga.wodonga croquet club, sport and leisure wodonga

Braun was originally founded in Germany in 1921, making components for radio sets. After World War 2 they extended their range to include audio and camera equipment. By the 1950s and 1960s the company branched out into electric shavers, kitchen appliances and hair care products. Home hair styling sets and hot rollers became popular in the 1960s and continued to be an important woman's styling appliance throughout the 1970s and 1980s. In 1975 this product was advertised at a price of $37.95. From 1984 until 2007, Braun was a wholly owned subsidiary of Gillette, which had purchased a controlling interest in the company in 1967. Braun is now a subsidiary of Procter & Gamble, which acquired Gillette in 2005.Personal grooming items such as this became important personal accessories and grooming tools for women throughout the mid 20th century across Australia.This hair styler set contains 20 hair rollers which were heated by placing them on the 20 heating posts fitted inside the unit in the case. An electric cord supplied was attached to an electric socket. A red dot on top of each posts darkened when the rollers were sufficiently heated. A detailed instruction booklet is included. A mirror is attached to the inside of the lid.On 2 metal plates on back of unit: Plate 1: MANUFACTURED FOR BRAUN ELECTRICS (AUST) PTY. LTD. / 24 JOHNSTON ST., FITZROY, VIC. 650-WATT 240 V. A. C. ONLY 50 CYCLE CAT. NO. B102 Plate 2: VOLT 240 AC ONLY FREQUENCY 50 H Z. 0.66 AMP / RETURN TO SUPPLIER FOR REPAIR Across bottom: PATENTS PENDING / MADE IN HONG KONGbraun electrics, personal appliances, hair styling

Sarah Coventry Pty. Ltd. was a North American jewellery company that was established in 1949 by the Stuart family as part of Emmons Jewelry, Inc. It began operations in England and Australia in 1968, and in Australia it moved from Carlton in Melbourne to Wodonga in 1969. The premises were originally on High St. in Wodonga, but a new warehouse was built in Melbourne Rd. later in 1969. It was a direct selling jewellery business using a party-plan model similar to Tupperware and Avon. The sales reps or 'Hostesses' were provided with jewellery samples in demonstration kits, which they displayed at jewellery parties in their homes. The designs for jewellery such as brooches, necklaces, earrings, chokers and bracelets were purchased from freelance designers and jewellery manufacturers rather than in-house designers. In 1979 Sarah Coventry Pty. Ltd. in Wodonga was bought by three Australian businessmen, including Wodonga local Jim Sawyer, and continued to sell jewellery under the name "Sargem Pty. Ltd”, for several more years in the 1980s. The colour booklet for Sarah Coventry Pty. Ltd. recruitment awards for jewellery sales has local significance as part of the decentralised commercial development of regional centres such as Wodonga in NE Victoria. As part of the Sarah Coventry collection, the booklet has national and international significance from the perspective of social and economic developments for women after World War II. The direct selling party-plan business model Sarah Coventry was based on is also considered the first of its kind for jewellery.Colour booklet with the awards that sales reps or "hostesses" for Sarah Coventry jewellery could earn dated to 1971. Twelve pages of colour photos of the different types of awards, with colour drawings and the text in black. The colour photo on the front cover of the booklet appears to show the front steps to the Sarah Coventry warehouse in Wodonga, built in 1969.sarah coventry, jewellery, wodonga, costume jewellery, vintage fashion jewellery

Sarah Coventry Pty. Ltd. was a North American jewellery company that was established in 1949 by the Stuart family as part of Emmons Jewelry, Inc. It began operations in England and Australia in 1968, and in Australia it moved from Carlton in Melbourne to Wodonga in 1969. The premises were originally on High St. in Wodonga, but a new warehouse was built in Melbourne Rd. later in 1969. It was a direct selling jewellery business using a party-plan model similar to Tupperware and Avon. The sales reps or 'Hostesses' were provided with jewellery samples in demonstration kits, which they displayed at jewellery parties in their homes. The designs for jewellery such as brooches, necklaces, earrings, chokers and bracelets were purchased from freelance designers and jewellery manufacturers rather than in-house designers. In 1979 Sarah Coventry Pty. Ltd. in Wodonga was bought by three Australian businessmen, including Wodonga local Jim Sawyer, and continued to sell jewellery under the name "Sargem Pty. Ltd”, for several more years in the 1980s. The black and white photograph of the 1969 Sarah Coventry Pty. Ltd. warehouse in Wodonga has local significance as part of the decentralised commercial development of regional centres such as Wodonga in NE Victoria. As part of the Sarah Coventry collection, the photograph has national and international significance from the perspective of social and economic developments for women after World War II. The direct selling party-plan business model it was based on is also considered the first of its kind for jewellery.Black and white photographic print of the outside of the Sarah Coventry Pty. Ltd. building in Wodonga, Victoria. It was built in 1969 at Sarah Coventry Park, Hume Highway, Wodonga.The name "Sarah Coventry" is on the front wall of the building in the photo.sarah coventry, jewellery, wodonga, costume jewellery, vintage fashion jewellery

Sarah Coventry Pty. Ltd. was a North American jewellery company that was established in 1949 by the Stuart family as part of Emmons Jewelry, Inc. It began operations in England and Australia in 1968, and in Australia it moved from Carlton in Melbourne to Wodonga in 1969. The premises were originally on High St. in Wodonga, but a new warehouse was built in Melbourne Rd. later in 1969. It was a direct selling jewellery business using a party-plan model similar to Tupperware and Avon. The sales reps or 'Hostesses' were provided with jewellery samples in demonstration kits, which they displayed at jewellery parties in their homes. The designs for jewellery such as brooches, necklaces, earrings, chokers and bracelets were purchased from freelance designers and jewellery manufacturers rather than in-house designers. In 1979 Sarah Coventry Pty. Ltd. in Wodonga was bought by three Australian businessmen, including Wodonga local Jim Sawyer, and continued to sell jewellery under the name "Sargem Pty. Ltd”, for several more years in the 1980s. As part of the Sarah Coventry collection, the jewellery polishing cloth has local significance with the decentralised commercial development of regional centres such as Wodonga in NE Victoria, as well as national and international significance from the perspective of social and economic developments for women after World War II. The direct selling party-plan business model Sarah Coventry was based on is also considered the first of its kind for jewellery.Sarah Coventry Pty. Ltd. yellow jewellery polishing cloth in a light-coloured paper envelope with pink floral designs on the front and back, as well as text on the back. Oval cut out on the front surface to show the yellow polishing cloth."Sarah Coventry / Sarah Conventry, Inc. Newark, New York 14593 Copyright 1975 / A Care Cloth to keep your Sarah Coventry jewelry looking lovely. / A quick polishing will remove dust and fingerprints. / Enjoy Sarah Coventry at its finest."sarah coventry, jewellery, wodonga, costume jewellery, vintage fashion jewellery, jewellery polishing cloths

Sarah Coventry Pty. Ltd. was a North American jewellery company that was established in 1949 by the Stuart family as part of Emmons Jewelry, Inc. It began operations in England and Australia in 1968, and in Australia it moved from Carlton in Melbourne to Wodonga in 1969. The premises were originally on High St. in Wodonga, but a new warehouse was built in Melbourne Rd. later in 1969. It was a direct selling jewellery business using a party-plan model similar to Tupperware and Avon. The sales reps or 'Hostesses' were provided with jewellery samples in demonstration kits, which they displayed at jewellery parties in their homes. The designs for jewellery such as brooches, necklaces, earrings, chokers and bracelets were purchased from freelance designers and jewellery manufacturers rather than in-house designers. In 1979 Sarah Coventry Pty. Ltd. in Wodonga was bought by three Australian businessmen, including Wodonga local Jim Sawyer, and continued to sell jewellery under the name "Sargem Pty. Ltd”, for several more years in the 1980s. The faux suede jewellery pouch has local significance as part of the Sarah Coventry collection and the decentralised commercial development of regional centres such as Wodonga in NE Victoria, as well as national and international significance from the perspective of social and economic developments for women after World War II. The direct selling party-plan business model Sarah Coventry was based on is also considered the first of its kind for jewellery.Small light brown/beige, faux suede jewellery pouch with a red draw string and the brand names "Sarah Coventry" and "Affinity" on the front."SARAH COVENTRY. / AND / AFFINITY."sarah coventry, jewellery, wodonga, costume jewellery, vintage fashion jewellery, jewellery pouch

Sarah Coventry Pty. Ltd. was a North American jewellery company that was established in 1949 by the Stuart family as part of Emmons Jewelry, Inc. It began operations in England and Australia in 1968, and in Australia it moved from Carlton in Melbourne to Wodonga in 1969. The premises were originally on High St. in Wodonga, but a new warehouse was built in Melbourne Rd. later in 1969. It was a direct selling jewellery business using a party-plan model similar to Tupperware and Avon. The sales reps or 'Hostesses' were provided with jewellery samples in demonstration kits, which they displayed at jewellery parties in their homes. The designs for jewellery such as brooches, necklaces, earrings, chokers and bracelets were purchased from freelance designers and jewellery manufacturers rather than in-house designers. In 1979 Sarah Coventry Pty. Ltd. in Wodonga was bought by three Australian businessmen, including Wodonga local Jim Sawyer, and continued to sell jewellery under the name "Sargem Pty. Ltd”, for several more years in the 1980s. As part of the Sarah Coventry collection, the brooch has local significance with the decentralised commercial development of regional centres such as Wodonga in NE Victoria, as well as national and international significance from the perspective of social and economic developments for women after World War II. The direct selling party-plan business model Sarah Coventry was based on is also considered the first of its kind for jewellery.Gold-toned metal brooch from the Sarah Coventry Pty. Ltd. jewellery range in the shape of a flower. Two layers of petals with the upper one white and the lower one gold-toned. "© SARAH COV. / MADE IN CANADA" on the back surface.sarah coventry, jewellery, wodonga, costume jewellery, vintage fashion jewellery, brooch, brooches