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Surrey Hills Historical Society Collection
Photograph, Churchill Street, Mont Albert and Mont Albert Station, looking towards Hamilton Street, 1919, 1919
The railway extended through to Mont Albert in 1882, but it wasn't until 1890 that a station was built with funds raised by a syndicate of local landowners.The buildings on the south side of the railway were built in 1910-1911 in the Arts and Crafts style by architect, K W Hardy. The land occupied by the Hamilton Street shops was subdivided in the 1880s and the first purpose-built shop was 'Pope and Moran, Grocers'. This shop later became Tom Morris' Grocery. By 1930 shops stretched along both sides of Hamilton Street and part way along Churchill Street. The donor, the late Norman Carter held a significant collection of photos taken around Mont Albert and Surrey Hills, in particular subjects related to the Church of England.Black and white photo taken from the centre of the road in Churchill Street, Mont Albert. Mont Albert station is on the RHS fenced off by a post and rail fence. Shops can be seen at the intersection of Hamilton and Churchill Streets. There do not appear to be any shops in Churchill Street. There are newly planted street trees within paling guards on the LHS. There does not appear to be any curb and channelling at the side of the road.Rear in blue biro in Jocelyn Hall's handwriting "Mont Albert Station 1919".mont albert station, railways, hamilton street, churchill street, shops, arts and crafts style, norman carter -
Surrey Hills Historical Society Collection
Photograph, Hamilton Street, Mont Albert in 1919, 1919
The land occupied by the Hamilton Street shops was subdivided in the 1880s and the first purpose-built shop was 'Pope and Moran, Grocers'. This shop later became Tom Morris' Grocery. By 1930 shops stretched along both sides of Hamilton Street and part way along Churchill Street. The donor the late Norman Carter took many photos documenting Mont Albert and Surrey Hills from the 1920s. His subject matter often related to Church of England events and activities.Black and white photo taken from the centre of the road in Hamilton Street, Mont Albert. Three single storey shops can be seen with vacant blocks of land in between them. They have verandas extending over the pavement to the edge of the road which appears to have bluestone curb and channelling. One shop sells dairy produce and small goods.hamilton street, shops -
Surrey Hills Historical Society Collection
Book, That's our house, A history of housing in Victoria, 1986
All houses were designed to provide protection from the elements and a home base for family activities - sleeping, eating, washing, recreation and earning a living. What changes is not the purpose, but the way this purpose is achieved. This book is about all these things. It is not just about architecture. Foreword by Hon Frank Wilkes, Minister for HousingAn 80 page soft-cover book with index and numerous photos and sketches.On the front cover in top RH corner and on foreword page in Jocelyn Hall's writing: "Surrey Hills Neighbourhood Centre"architectural styles, housing - victoria, ministry of housing, architecture - domestic - victoria, (mr) nicholas hudson, (mr) peter mcewan -
National Wool Museum
Textile - Skirt, Tina Knitwear, 1980-2000
Part of a selection of garments knitted by ‘Tina Knitwear’. Tina Knitwear was a successful made to order knitwear business in Brighton from the mid-1960s to around 2010, run by Assunta and Franco Liburti. Daughter Melissa Persi writes: Our parents Assunta (Mum) and Franco (Dad) Liburti ran a successful made to order knitwear business in Brighton from the mid-1960s to around 2010. Assunta was affectionately known to her family as Assuntina, therefore the business was named "Tina Knitwear" after her. Assunta and Franco were born in the beautiful seaside town of Terracina in Italy in 1933 and 1930 respectively. As was so common in Italy in the 1950s, Assunta who was in her late teens and early twenties learnt the intricate skills of machine knitting, dressmaking and pattern making. Franco on the other hand, learnt the building trade with his 2 brothers and specialised in bricklaying and tiling. As was so common after the war, Assunta and Franco yearned for a better life so they decided that they would get engaged and then migrate to Australia to be married and raise their family in Australia, a land of much opportunity which they no longer felt their beloved Italy held for them. Assunta migrated to Australia first in 1957 and later Franco joined her in 1958 where they were married. For the first few years, Franco (also known as Frank) worked as bricklayer /tiler on buildings such as the Robert Menzies building at Monash University in Clayton and various buildings in the Melbourne CBD. Assunta on the other hand put her machine knitting skills to use working in factories doing piece machine knitting for various knitwear companies. The hours were long, the conditions were difficult, and travel was onerous without a car. After their 2 older children were born, it was decided that dad would leave the building trade and they would start their own made to order knitwear business. That way they could work from home and raise their family together. Mum taught dad everything he needed to know so he could operate the knitwear machinery. They purchased COPPO knitting machines from Italy and a Linking machine from Germany. Initially they had a knitwear shopfront in Bay Street Brighton where a store assistant would take the orders and client’s measurements and Assunta would then make the garments from a small workshop in their home. Unfortunately, the assistants were not skilled dressmakers and often measurements and orders were incorrectly taken. Assunta being the perfectionist and highly skilled machinist that she was, decided that she needed to oversee the entire process from meeting the client, to taking their order, right thru to the fittings and completion of the garment. It therefore made sense that they should close the shop front and run their business from their own home in Brighton and hence “Tina Knitwear” was born. Together, for more than 40 years they ran their very respected and successful business and were well known in the Bayside area. They specialised in made to order knitwear for both men and women using mainly pure wool (from Patons, Wangaratta Mills, Japan and Italy) but also lurex and estacel. Over those years, many of their clients became their close friends. It wasn't unusual for clients to come to order garments and then end up in the kitchen chatting over a cup of Italian espresso coffee and homemade biscuits. Some of their clients were especially memorable and became lifelong friends. Mrs Connell was a dear friend of mum’s, each year she would buy tickets for the “Gown of the Year” fashion show. She would insist on taking Assunta and her 2 daughters so that we could see the latest fashions. Then there was their dear friend Ms Griffiths. She had been a Matron nurse at the Queen Victoria Hospital when she met my parents in the 1970s. She returned to live in New Zealand in the 1980s but came back to Melbourne every year to stay for 2 weeks with the sole purpose of visiting my parents (she adored them) and order garments. For those 2 solid weeks, mum and dad would only knit for Ms Griffiths and she would go back to New Zealand with at least 5 or 6 new outfits. I actually think she enjoyed mum’s homemade pasta almost as much as her new clothes! Over the years, my parents learnt to speak English very well given that majority of their clients were not Italian speaking. Their oldest child John born in 1960 learnt to speak English with the help of those clients who were such a big part of our childhood. Mum and dad always went above and beyond to ensure their clients were satisfied. Mum was an absolute perfectionist and it showed in her attention to detail and the quality of their beautiful work. You only need to look at the garments that have stood the test of time or speak to their clients to know that this is true. Their clients would always comment on how well their clothes would last and much of their clients came via word of mouth and recommendations. Occasionally there would be disagreements because mum had found an error in dad's knitting (either a wrong stitch or a sizing mistake mainly) and would ask him to redo a piece, he would argue back saying that it was fine, but we always knew who would win the argument and that the piece would get remade! Similarly, we recall discussions where mum would ask dad to find a particular colour of wool in the garage where the stock was kept. He would try to convince her that they were out of stock of that colour and that the client should choose a different colour. She would insist they had it and then after hours of searching, he would return into the house sheepishly holding the wool! Our childhood is full of beautiful memories of mum and dad always being present, clients coming and going, mum humming her favourite songs as she worked often late into the night and sometimes, we even fell asleep to the hum of the machinery. They put their heart and soul into "Tina Knitwear" and took pride in providing only the best quality garments for their clients. In Italian there is a saying “lei ha le mani d’oro” which literally translated means “she has hands of gold”. Franco enjoyed his work but for Assunta, it was more than just work and there is no better way to describe her skills, passion and dedication to her machine knitting… she truly did have “hands of gold”. We will forever be grateful that our parents’ life journey gave us the opportunity to live in a home filled with creativity, dedication and passion, amazing work ethic and mutual respect, lifelong friendships and a lifetime of love. Red wide ribbed pleated skirt with a plain yoke, navy blue band at bottom edge and elasticated waistband. A purple x is located inside to mark centre back of skirt.knitwear, clothing, italy, migrants, brighton, knitting machine, linking machine, garments, business, family, community -
National Wool Museum
Textile - Skirt, Tina Knitwear, 1980-2000
Part of a selection of garments knitted by ‘Tina Knitwear’. Tina Knitwear was a successful made to order knitwear business in Brighton from the mid-1960s to around 2010, run by Assunta and Franco Liburti. Daughter Melissa Persi writes: Our parents Assunta (Mum) and Franco (Dad) Liburti ran a successful made to order knitwear business in Brighton from the mid-1960s to around 2010. Assunta was affectionately known to her family as Assuntina, therefore the business was named "Tina Knitwear" after her. Assunta and Franco were born in the beautiful seaside town of Terracina in Italy in 1933 and 1930 respectively. As was so common in Italy in the 1950s, Assunta who was in her late teens and early twenties learnt the intricate skills of machine knitting, dressmaking and pattern making. Franco on the other hand, learnt the building trade with his 2 brothers and specialised in bricklaying and tiling. As was so common after the war, Assunta and Franco yearned for a better life so they decided that they would get engaged and then migrate to Australia to be married and raise their family in Australia, a land of much opportunity which they no longer felt their beloved Italy held for them. Assunta migrated to Australia first in 1957 and later Franco joined her in 1958 where they were married. For the first few years, Franco (also known as Frank) worked as bricklayer /tiler on buildings such as the Robert Menzies building at Monash University in Clayton and various buildings in the Melbourne CBD. Assunta on the other hand put her machine knitting skills to use working in factories doing piece machine knitting for various knitwear companies. The hours were long, the conditions were difficult, and travel was onerous without a car. After their 2 older children were born, it was decided that dad would leave the building trade and they would start their own made to order knitwear business. That way they could work from home and raise their family together. Mum taught dad everything he needed to know so he could operate the knitwear machinery. They purchased COPPO knitting machines from Italy and a Linking machine from Germany. Initially they had a knitwear shopfront in Bay Street Brighton where a store assistant would take the orders and client’s measurements and Assunta would then make the garments from a small workshop in their home. Unfortunately, the assistants were not skilled dressmakers and often measurements and orders were incorrectly taken. Assunta being the perfectionist and highly skilled machinist that she was, decided that she needed to oversee the entire process from meeting the client, to taking their order, right thru to the fittings and completion of the garment. It therefore made sense that they should close the shop front and run their business from their own home in Brighton and hence “Tina Knitwear” was born. Together, for more than 40 years they ran their very respected and successful business and were well known in the Bayside area. They specialised in made to order knitwear for both men and women using mainly pure wool (from Patons, Wangaratta Mills, Japan and Italy) but also lurex and estacel. Over those years, many of their clients became their close friends. It wasn't unusual for clients to come to order garments and then end up in the kitchen chatting over a cup of Italian espresso coffee and homemade biscuits. Some of their clients were especially memorable and became lifelong friends. Mrs Connell was a dear friend of mum’s, each year she would buy tickets for the “Gown of the Year” fashion show. She would insist on taking Assunta and her 2 daughters so that we could see the latest fashions. Then there was their dear friend Ms Griffiths. She had been a Matron nurse at the Queen Victoria Hospital when she met my parents in the 1970s. She returned to live in New Zealand in the 1980s but came back to Melbourne every year to stay for 2 weeks with the sole purpose of visiting my parents (she adored them) and order garments. For those 2 solid weeks, mum and dad would only knit for Ms Griffiths and she would go back to New Zealand with at least 5 or 6 new outfits. I actually think she enjoyed mum’s homemade pasta almost as much as her new clothes! Over the years, my parents learnt to speak English very well given that majority of their clients were not Italian speaking. Their oldest child John born in 1960 learnt to speak English with the help of those clients who were such a big part of our childhood. Mum and dad always went above and beyond to ensure their clients were satisfied. Mum was an absolute perfectionist and it showed in her attention to detail and the quality of their beautiful work. You only need to look at the garments that have stood the test of time or speak to their clients to know that this is true. Their clients would always comment on how well their clothes would last and much of their clients came via word of mouth and recommendations. Occasionally there would be disagreements because mum had found an error in dad's knitting (either a wrong stitch or a sizing mistake mainly) and would ask him to redo a piece, he would argue back saying that it was fine, but we always knew who would win the argument and that the piece would get remade! Similarly, we recall discussions where mum would ask dad to find a particular colour of wool in the garage where the stock was kept. He would try to convince her that they were out of stock of that colour and that the client should choose a different colour. She would insist they had it and then after hours of searching, he would return into the house sheepishly holding the wool! Our childhood is full of beautiful memories of mum and dad always being present, clients coming and going, mum humming her favourite songs as she worked often late into the night and sometimes, we even fell asleep to the hum of the machinery. They put their heart and soul into "Tina Knitwear" and took pride in providing only the best quality garments for their clients. In Italian there is a saying “lei ha le mani d’oro” which literally translated means “she has hands of gold”. Franco enjoyed his work but for Assunta, it was more than just work and there is no better way to describe her skills, passion and dedication to her machine knitting… she truly did have “hands of gold”. We will forever be grateful that our parents’ life journey gave us the opportunity to live in a home filled with creativity, dedication and passion, amazing work ethic and mutual respect, lifelong friendships and a lifetime of love. Maroon skirt with curved wrap detail with maroon and navy striped ribbing halfway around bottom. The skirt is shaped with darts, has an elastic waistband, and centre back opening with a zip and skirt hook. Maroon lining.knitwear, clothing, italy, migrants, brighton, knitting machine, linking machine, garments, business, family, community -
National Wool Museum
Textile - Children's Jumper, Tina Knitwear, 1980-2000
Part of a selection of garments knitted by ‘Tina Knitwear’. Tina Knitwear was a successful made to order knitwear business in Brighton from the mid-1960s to around 2010, run by Assunta and Franco Liburti. Daughter Melissa Persi writes: Our parents Assunta (Mum) and Franco (Dad) Liburti ran a successful made to order knitwear business in Brighton from the mid-1960s to around 2010. Assunta was affectionately known to her family as Assuntina, therefore the business was named "Tina Knitwear" after her. Assunta and Franco were born in the beautiful seaside town of Terracina in Italy in 1933 and 1930 respectively. As was so common in Italy in the 1950s, Assunta who was in her late teens and early twenties learnt the intricate skills of machine knitting, dressmaking and pattern making. Franco on the other hand, learnt the building trade with his 2 brothers and specialised in bricklaying and tiling. As was so common after the war, Assunta and Franco yearned for a better life so they decided that they would get engaged and then migrate to Australia to be married and raise their family in Australia, a land of much opportunity which they no longer felt their beloved Italy held for them. Assunta migrated to Australia first in 1957 and later Franco joined her in 1958 where they were married. For the first few years, Franco (also known as Frank) worked as bricklayer /tiler on buildings such as the Robert Menzies building at Monash University in Clayton and various buildings in the Melbourne CBD. Assunta on the other hand put her machine knitting skills to use working in factories doing piece machine knitting for various knitwear companies. The hours were long, the conditions were difficult, and travel was onerous without a car. After their 2 older children were born, it was decided that dad would leave the building trade and they would start their own made to order knitwear business. That way they could work from home and raise their family together. Mum taught dad everything he needed to know so he could operate the knitwear machinery. They purchased COPPO knitting machines from Italy and a Linking machine from Germany. Initially they had a knitwear shopfront in Bay Street Brighton where a store assistant would take the orders and client’s measurements and Assunta would then make the garments from a small workshop in their home. Unfortunately, the assistants were not skilled dressmakers and often measurements and orders were incorrectly taken. Assunta being the perfectionist and highly skilled machinist that she was, decided that she needed to oversee the entire process from meeting the client, to taking their order, right thru to the fittings and completion of the garment. It therefore made sense that they should close the shop front and run their business from their own home in Brighton and hence “Tina Knitwear” was born. Together, for more than 40 years they ran their very respected and successful business and were well known in the Bayside area. They specialised in made to order knitwear for both men and women using mainly pure wool (from Patons, Wangaratta Mills, Japan and Italy) but also lurex and estacel. Over those years, many of their clients became their close friends. It wasn't unusual for clients to come to order garments and then end up in the kitchen chatting over a cup of Italian espresso coffee and homemade biscuits. Some of their clients were especially memorable and became lifelong friends. Mrs Connell was a dear friend of mum’s, each year she would buy tickets for the “Gown of the Year” fashion show. She would insist on taking Assunta and her 2 daughters so that we could see the latest fashions. Then there was their dear friend Ms Griffiths. She had been a Matron nurse at the Queen Victoria Hospital when she met my parents in the 1970s. She returned to live in New Zealand in the 1980s but came back to Melbourne every year to stay for 2 weeks with the sole purpose of visiting my parents (she adored them) and order garments. For those 2 solid weeks, mum and dad would only knit for Ms Griffiths and she would go back to New Zealand with at least 5 or 6 new outfits. I actually think she enjoyed mum’s homemade pasta almost as much as her new clothes! Over the years, my parents learnt to speak English very well given that majority of their clients were not Italian speaking. Their oldest child John born in 1960 learnt to speak English with the help of those clients who were such a big part of our childhood. Mum and dad always went above and beyond to ensure their clients were satisfied. Mum was an absolute perfectionist and it showed in her attention to detail and the quality of their beautiful work. You only need to look at the garments that have stood the test of time or speak to their clients to know that this is true. Their clients would always comment on how well their clothes would last and much of their clients came via word of mouth and recommendations. Occasionally there would be disagreements because mum had found an error in dad's knitting (either a wrong stitch or a sizing mistake mainly) and would ask him to redo a piece, he would argue back saying that it was fine, but we always knew who would win the argument and that the piece would get remade! Similarly, we recall discussions where mum would ask dad to find a particular colour of wool in the garage where the stock was kept. He would try to convince her that they were out of stock of that colour and that the client should choose a different colour. She would insist they had it and then after hours of searching, he would return into the house sheepishly holding the wool! Our childhood is full of beautiful memories of mum and dad always being present, clients coming and going, mum humming her favourite songs as she worked often late into the night and sometimes, we even fell asleep to the hum of the machinery. They put their heart and soul into "Tina Knitwear" and took pride in providing only the best quality garments for their clients. In Italian there is a saying “lei ha le mani d’oro” which literally translated means “she has hands of gold”. Franco enjoyed his work but for Assunta, it was more than just work and there is no better way to describe her skills, passion and dedication to her machine knitting… she truly did have “hands of gold”. We will forever be grateful that our parents’ life journey gave us the opportunity to live in a home filled with creativity, dedication and passion, amazing work ethic and mutual respect, lifelong friendships and a lifetime of love. Children’s moss green knitted jumper with a peter pan collar, centre back zip and raglan sleeves.knitwear, clothing, italy, migrants, brighton, knitting machine, linking machine, garments, business, family, community -
National Wool Museum
Textile - Coat Dress, Tina Knitwear, 1980-2000
Part of a selection of garments knitted by ‘Tina Knitwear’. Tina Knitwear was a successful made to order knitwear business in Brighton from the mid-1960s to around 2010, run by Assunta and Franco Liburti. Daughter Melissa Persi writes: Our parents Assunta (Mum) and Franco (Dad) Liburti ran a successful made to order knitwear business in Brighton from the mid-1960s to around 2010. Assunta was affectionately known to her family as Assuntina, therefore the business was named "Tina Knitwear" after her. Assunta and Franco were born in the beautiful seaside town of Terracina in Italy in 1933 and 1930 respectively. As was so common in Italy in the 1950s, Assunta who was in her late teens and early twenties learnt the intricate skills of machine knitting, dressmaking and pattern making. Franco on the other hand, learnt the building trade with his 2 brothers and specialised in bricklaying and tiling. As was so common after the war, Assunta and Franco yearned for a better life so they decided that they would get engaged and then migrate to Australia to be married and raise their family in Australia, a land of much opportunity which they no longer felt their beloved Italy held for them. Assunta migrated to Australia first in 1957 and later Franco joined her in 1958 where they were married. For the first few years, Franco (also known as Frank) worked as bricklayer /tiler on buildings such as the Robert Menzies building at Monash University in Clayton and various buildings in the Melbourne CBD. Assunta on the other hand put her machine knitting skills to use working in factories doing piece machine knitting for various knitwear companies. The hours were long, the conditions were difficult, and travel was onerous without a car. After their 2 older children were born, it was decided that dad would leave the building trade and they would start their own made to order knitwear business. That way they could work from home and raise their family together. Mum taught dad everything he needed to know so he could operate the knitwear machinery. They purchased COPPO knitting machines from Italy and a Linking machine from Germany. Initially they had a knitwear shopfront in Bay Street Brighton where a store assistant would take the orders and client’s measurements and Assunta would then make the garments from a small workshop in their home. Unfortunately, the assistants were not skilled dressmakers and often measurements and orders were incorrectly taken. Assunta being the perfectionist and highly skilled machinist that she was, decided that she needed to oversee the entire process from meeting the client, to taking their order, right thru to the fittings and completion of the garment. It therefore made sense that they should close the shop front and run their business from their own home in Brighton and hence “Tina Knitwear” was born. Together, for more than 40 years they ran their very respected and successful business and were well known in the Bayside area. They specialised in made to order knitwear for both men and women using mainly pure wool (from Patons, Wangaratta Mills, Japan and Italy) but also lurex and estacel. Over those years, many of their clients became their close friends. It wasn't unusual for clients to come to order garments and then end up in the kitchen chatting over a cup of Italian espresso coffee and homemade biscuits. Some of their clients were especially memorable and became lifelong friends. Mrs Connell was a dear friend of mum’s, each year she would buy tickets for the “Gown of the Year” fashion show. She would insist on taking Assunta and her 2 daughters so that we could see the latest fashions. Then there was their dear friend Ms Griffiths. She had been a Matron nurse at the Queen Victoria Hospital when she met my parents in the 1970s. She returned to live in New Zealand in the 1980s but came back to Melbourne every year to stay for 2 weeks with the sole purpose of visiting my parents (she adored them) and order garments. For those 2 solid weeks, mum and dad would only knit for Ms Griffiths and she would go back to New Zealand with at least 5 or 6 new outfits. I actually think she enjoyed mum’s homemade pasta almost as much as her new clothes! Over the years, my parents learnt to speak English very well given that majority of their clients were not Italian speaking. Their oldest child John born in 1960 learnt to speak English with the help of those clients who were such a big part of our childhood. Mum and dad always went above and beyond to ensure their clients were satisfied. Mum was an absolute perfectionist and it showed in her attention to detail and the quality of their beautiful work. You only need to look at the garments that have stood the test of time or speak to their clients to know that this is true. Their clients would always comment on how well their clothes would last and much of their clients came via word of mouth and recommendations. Occasionally there would be disagreements because mum had found an error in dad's knitting (either a wrong stitch or a sizing mistake mainly) and would ask him to redo a piece, he would argue back saying that it was fine, but we always knew who would win the argument and that the piece would get remade! Similarly, we recall discussions where mum would ask dad to find a particular colour of wool in the garage where the stock was kept. He would try to convince her that they were out of stock of that colour and that the client should choose a different colour. She would insist they had it and then after hours of searching, he would return into the house sheepishly holding the wool! Our childhood is full of beautiful memories of mum and dad always being present, clients coming and going, mum humming her favourite songs as she worked often late into the night and sometimes, we even fell asleep to the hum of the machinery. They put their heart and soul into "Tina Knitwear" and took pride in providing only the best quality garments for their clients. In Italian there is a saying “lei ha le mani d’oro” which literally translated means “she has hands of gold”. Franco enjoyed his work but for Assunta, it was more than just work and there is no better way to describe her skills, passion and dedication to her machine knitting… she truly did have “hands of gold”. We will forever be grateful that our parents’ life journey gave us the opportunity to live in a home filled with creativity, dedication and passion, amazing work ethic and mutual respect, lifelong friendships and a lifetime of love. Red princess seam coat dress with ten self covered buttons down centre front and crew neck. knitwear, clothing, italy, migrants, brighton, knitting machine, linking machine, garments, business, family, community -
National Wool Museum
Textile - Dress, Tina Knitwear, 1980-2000
Part of a selection of garments knitted by ‘Tina Knitwear’. Tina Knitwear was a successful made to order knitwear business in Brighton from the mid-1960s to around 2010, run by Assunta and Franco Liburti. Daughter Melissa Persi writes: Our parents Assunta (Mum) and Franco (Dad) Liburti ran a successful made to order knitwear business in Brighton from the mid-1960s to around 2010. Assunta was affectionately known to her family as Assuntina, therefore the business was named "Tina Knitwear" after her. Assunta and Franco were born in the beautiful seaside town of Terracina in Italy in 1933 and 1930 respectively. As was so common in Italy in the 1950s, Assunta who was in her late teens and early twenties learnt the intricate skills of machine knitting, dressmaking and pattern making. Franco on the other hand, learnt the building trade with his 2 brothers and specialised in bricklaying and tiling. As was so common after the war, Assunta and Franco yearned for a better life so they decided that they would get engaged and then migrate to Australia to be married and raise their family in Australia, a land of much opportunity which they no longer felt their beloved Italy held for them. Assunta migrated to Australia first in 1957 and later Franco joined her in 1958 where they were married. For the first few years, Franco (also known as Frank) worked as bricklayer /tiler on buildings such as the Robert Menzies building at Monash University in Clayton and various buildings in the Melbourne CBD. Assunta on the other hand put her machine knitting skills to use working in factories doing piece machine knitting for various knitwear companies. The hours were long, the conditions were difficult, and travel was onerous without a car. After their 2 older children were born, it was decided that dad would leave the building trade and they would start their own made to order knitwear business. That way they could work from home and raise their family together. Mum taught dad everything he needed to know so he could operate the knitwear machinery. They purchased COPPO knitting machines from Italy and a Linking machine from Germany. Initially they had a knitwear shopfront in Bay Street Brighton where a store assistant would take the orders and client’s measurements and Assunta would then make the garments from a small workshop in their home. Unfortunately, the assistants were not skilled dressmakers and often measurements and orders were incorrectly taken. Assunta being the perfectionist and highly skilled machinist that she was, decided that she needed to oversee the entire process from meeting the client, to taking their order, right thru to the fittings and completion of the garment. It therefore made sense that they should close the shop front and run their business from their own home in Brighton and hence “Tina Knitwear” was born. Together, for more than 40 years they ran their very respected and successful business and were well known in the Bayside area. They specialised in made to order knitwear for both men and women using mainly pure wool (from Patons, Wangaratta Mills, Japan and Italy) but also lurex and estacel. Over those years, many of their clients became their close friends. It wasn't unusual for clients to come to order garments and then end up in the kitchen chatting over a cup of Italian espresso coffee and homemade biscuits. Some of their clients were especially memorable and became lifelong friends. Mrs Connell was a dear friend of mum’s, each year she would buy tickets for the “Gown of the Year” fashion show. She would insist on taking Assunta and her 2 daughters so that we could see the latest fashions. Then there was their dear friend Ms Griffiths. She had been a Matron nurse at the Queen Victoria Hospital when she met my parents in the 1970s. She returned to live in New Zealand in the 1980s but came back to Melbourne every year to stay for 2 weeks with the sole purpose of visiting my parents (she adored them) and order garments. For those 2 solid weeks, mum and dad would only knit for Ms Griffiths and she would go back to New Zealand with at least 5 or 6 new outfits. I actually think she enjoyed mum’s homemade pasta almost as much as her new clothes! Over the years, my parents learnt to speak English very well given that majority of their clients were not Italian speaking. Their oldest child John born in 1960 learnt to speak English with the help of those clients who were such a big part of our childhood. Mum and dad always went above and beyond to ensure their clients were satisfied. Mum was an absolute perfectionist and it showed in her attention to detail and the quality of their beautiful work. You only need to look at the garments that have stood the test of time or speak to their clients to know that this is true. Their clients would always comment on how well their clothes would last and much of their clients came via word of mouth and recommendations. Occasionally there would be disagreements because mum had found an error in dad's knitting (either a wrong stitch or a sizing mistake mainly) and would ask him to redo a piece, he would argue back saying that it was fine, but we always knew who would win the argument and that the piece would get remade! Similarly, we recall discussions where mum would ask dad to find a particular colour of wool in the garage where the stock was kept. He would try to convince her that they were out of stock of that colour and that the client should choose a different colour. She would insist they had it and then after hours of searching, he would return into the house sheepishly holding the wool! Our childhood is full of beautiful memories of mum and dad always being present, clients coming and going, mum humming her favourite songs as she worked often late into the night and sometimes, we even fell asleep to the hum of the machinery. They put their heart and soul into "Tina Knitwear" and took pride in providing only the best quality garments for their clients. In Italian there is a saying “lei ha le mani d’oro” which literally translated means “she has hands of gold”. Franco enjoyed his work but for Assunta, it was more than just work and there is no better way to describe her skills, passion and dedication to her machine knitting… she truly did have “hands of gold”. We will forever be grateful that our parents’ life journey gave us the opportunity to live in a home filled with creativity, dedication and passion, amazing work ethic and mutual respect, lifelong friendships and a lifetime of love. Grey marle princess seam dress with v neck, centre back zip and long sleeves. knitwear, clothing, italy, migrants, brighton, knitting machine, linking machine, garments, business, family, community -
National Wool Museum
Functional object - Magnifying Lens, c.1930s
This item was inherited from the donor's father, René Dupuche. John Dupuche, writes: This magnifying glass was used to remove the burrs and thorns that wool-buyers tended to get in their fingers when examining bales of wool. The open end was placed on the finger since the thorn was sometimes buried under the skin. The buyer looked through the magnifying glass and with tweezers or a pin removed the thorn which had rendered the finger inoperative. The wool-buyers needed the sensitivity of their fingers to appraise the suitability of the wool, as buyers had for centuries past, measuring the length of the staple, feeling and counting the crimps in the fibre, its finesse, softness, elasticity and strength, assessing the colour, watching for extraneous matter such as dust or seeds which would not be welcome by manufacturers half-way across the world. Their skills took years to acquire. Knowledgeable buyers were invaluable to their employers, since they were able to evaluate to the last percentage the yield of a bale. My father, René Dupuche, was the ‘principal buyer’ from 1927-1966 in Victoria, South Australia and Tasmania for the international wool company ‘Masurel Fils’ which was one of the largest wool businesses in Europe. It was based in the north of France, in Tourcoing, one of the major wool centres of the world. He was sent to Australia as a young man at the age of 23 and took part in the ‘golden era’ of wool in Australia, and the eventual replacement of hands-on appraisal by ‘core-testing’. Masurel Fils was one of the dozens of French and Belgian firms operating in Australia. These men from Flanders enjoyed a cosmopolitan society augmented by diplomats, European bankers and shipping-line executives for various countries and a handful of scientists and academics.Small black metal magnifying lens with three fold design and two hinges. One panel contains a circular glass lens, the centre panel has a circular hole, and the third panel has a square hole with three lines on each side.wool buyer, magnifying glass, magnifying lens, burrs, rené dupuche, john dupuche, migrants, masurel fils, french, belgian, flanders, working life, sheep industry, wool industry, agriculture -
Federation University Art Collection
Sculpture, 'Mungo Moon' by Don Barrett, 2015
'Mungo Moon' by Don Barrett is the first sculpture erected on the Churchill Art and Culture Pathway. It was officially unveiled by Professor David Battersby on 15 April 2015 From Churchill & District News 16 October 2014 The Churchill Art and Culture Walking Pathway will have its official public opening on Saturday October 18, with a walk finishing at Federation University Australia’s Switchback Gallery at the Federation University Gippsland Campus. ... An important link on the newly developed pathway was recently completed with a path south of the FedUni Student West Residences. The path now allows walkers to turn off the Eel Hole Creek path before reaching Glendonald Estate and to follow a picturesque, tree lined walkway to join up with the footpath on the Eastern side of Northways Road. From there the footpath joins into Federation University’s network of walking paths that proceeds past the Switchback Art Gallery, down through the pine plantation and along Lake Kretlow and the Churchill Golf Course. Project Manager Mike Answerth, said the opening of the West Residences section of the path means there is now only one short link to complete. “We’re now very close to realising the project’s objective to join up all these walking paths to provide a continuous pathway that encompasses town, campus and parkland. The next stage of the project will be the completion of Latrobe City’s East West Link and the enhancement of the walking path with artistic and cultural features.” said Mr. Answerth. Head of Federation University Australia Gippsland Campus, Dr Harry Ballis, said the project had been made possible through the contributions of the five former Gippsland Education Precinct (GEP) partners. “The Art and Culture Pathway represents another important step in joining the Churchill township and the university campus as a physical and social entity,” Dr Ballis said. “This was an initiative of the GEP and it is pleasing to see it coming to fruition.” The path now reaches as far as the golf driving range but plans are already under way to connect with the Mathison Park board walk and pathway, which surrounds Lake Hyland in Churchill. When the loop is completed, residents and visitors will have an approximately 5km circular walking path which links up the Churchill town centre, Federation University Australia and Mathison Park. There are already art features along this route, including primary schools’ Bug Blitz totems near the Kurnai College school crossing, native vegetation and history panels near the Hare Homestead in Mathison Park, and outdoor sculptures in the pine trees near the Federation University Switchback Gallery. contemporaryA large sculpture in five pieces set in an external location. It is part of the Churchill Art and Culture Walking Pathway. Don Barrett’s work is mainly in concrete with added coloured oxides to portray the feeling of the Australian landscape. Barrett focuses on concepts of Australia’s short history and indigenous history. churchill art and culture pathway, barrett, don barrett, gippsland campus, federation university, churchill, sculpture -
Vision Australia
Certificate - Text, RVIB Life Governor certificates, 1969-1992
To recognise outstanding contributions to the Institution, Life Governor certificates were awarded. Signed by the President and Manager/Secretary of the day, they were worded as follows: "Royal Victorian Institution for the Blind Life Governor. This is to certify that (blank) was this day appointed a Life Governor by the Board of Management." 28th August 1969 - signed by Charles Bennett and F.G. Turley Stanley Marsden Esq. 17th April 1975 - signed by E.J. Hanlon and E. Netson (?) Mrs Phyllis Marsden 20th November 1975 - signed by E.J. Hanlon and E. Netson (?) Mrs Lurleen C. Slaney John H. Weymouth, Esq Alan J. Murphy, Esq Mrs Phyllis Crook Christopher Williams Esq Dr. Alan Crook Adrienne N. Mursell November 19, 1981 - signed by E.J. Hanlon and E. Netson (?) Mrs Phyllis Wilson June 12, 1992 - signed by L. M. McCredie and Peter (?) Donald Gordon Boyle11 certificates with RVIB crest At the head of the page, a round circle with 'Royal Victorian Institute for the Blind' in Gothic typescript, a red crown atop the circle and a red cross with four white stars divides the inside of the circle into four areas. A picture in with and black, against a blue background, rests in each of these quadrants and a banner with the words 'I will lead the blind by a way they know not' is centred in between them. The pictures are: a harp, a bee hive, an open book and a flag with the words 'A.D. 1867'.royal victorian institute for the blind, awards, stanley marsden, phyllis marsden, phyllis crook, alan crook, john weymouth, christopher williams, adrienne mursell, alan murphy, lurleen slaney, phyllis wilson, gordon boyle -
Vision Australia
Photograph - Image, Dickinson Centre opening, 1990
Plaque commemorating the opening of the Dickinson Centre, named in honour of Harold and Mercy Dickinson, both totally blind since childhood, who never let challenges stand in their way. Mercy was the first woman who was blind to obtain a Bachelor of Arts degree at the University of Queensland, and received her Masters Degree in the Education of Blind People with Additional Handicaps in New York, and an Honorary Doctorate for Education from the University of Queensland in 1994. Mercy and Harold established the Queensland Training and Placement Centre for the Blind, the first establishment of its kind in Queensland. Harold, who was a prolific writer, was appointed the Director and Mercy was the first volunteer at the Centre. Together they gave a lifetime of dedication and commitment ensuring that people who were blind or had low vision had the same opportunities as those with sight. The Centre later merged with other organisations and in 2006 became part of Vision Australia. The second plaque provides a background to how Harold and Mercy met, and their roles in expanding the the opportunities for everyone around them.Rectangular metal plate with inscriptionThe Dickinson Centre This refurbished centre was Officially opened on 9 November 1990 by The Hon. Ben Humphreys M.H.R. Federal Member for Griffith and Minister for Veterans Affairs and Blessed by Br. Alan Barnabas S.S.F. So named by the QLD Foundation for Blind People Inc (Est. 1956) to Honour The Contribution Made by Harold and Mercy Dickinson 1990 Committee of Management Don Cameron President Mercy Dickinson Vice President Rex Stevens Secretary Moira Solomon Treasurer Del Donaldson Bruce Miller Bob Faulconbridge Justice Bill Pincus Jenny Finch Ken Scells Garry Macdonald Kevin Standish Ian Stewart David Henderson Patron: His Excellency The Governor of QLD Sir Walter Campbell A.C. Q.C.queensland foundation for blind people, nameplates, harold dickinson, mercy dickinson -
Vision Australia
Text, AFB Loddon Mallee Regional Committee minutes: 8/7/1996 - 11/3/1997, 1996-1997
Held at the 'Mirridong' Home for the Blind, McIvor Rd, Bendigo, these minutes contain information on attendees, meeting chair, apologies, confirmation of minutes, reports including from Auxiliaries and the Building, house and grounds, matters arising from reports, recommendations, Life Governors awards, general business and the date of the next meeting. It was noted that a fundraising campaign had been established to raise $100,000 from the Mildura District community for a Radio station for the Print Handicapped at Mildura. The "Paving the Way" program which was designed to help build the National Information Centre at Kooyong had been launched. For a gift of $100, individuals, businesses and organisations may have their names permanently inscribed on the brick pavers used to create the area. The Centenary Appeal was in action to raise $750,000 to enable commencement of the re-development of the Mirridong Home for the Blind - Amy Bayne Wing. 1 volumemirridong home (bendigo), association for the blind -
Vision Australia
Administrative record - Text, The Association for the Blind, Blind Members' Council annual reports and annual general meeting minutes 21/8/1981 to 19/9/1997, 1981-1997
These meetings were held at the Kooyong office and the minutes include Present, Chair, Apologies, Minutes, Matter arising from minutes, Correspondence, Life governors, Election of members, Nominations, Reports from Regional Blind Members groups. Some highlights are: 30/6/1990 under the capable leadership of Mrs Elsie Germon the schools programme has been re-convened. Regular visits are being made to primary schools. Speakers are accompanied by sighted guides. 9/8/1991 Executive Director, Mr John Cook reported merger of the Braille & Talking Book Library with AFB. First radio appeal for 3RPH raising over $30,000, opening of the new Baringa Day Centre at Shepparton. 30/6/1996 the annual report highlighted the Centenary of AFB it was noted that self-help has always been the major emphasis underpinning the work of the Blind Member's Council. The Tilly Aston Fund raised over $1/2 million for the new National Information Centre. The peer support work and monitoring of services, ensures that we give back something to AFB, for the support we receive. BMC representatives made 70 visits across the State. The Council registered the Tilly Aston Rhododendron as a lasting way of acknowledging the work of our founder. 19/9/1997 The Chairman welcomed those present to the second combined meeting of the AFB and the Tilly Aston Customer Council. The Council welcomed the change in Articles and Memorandum of the Association and the formation of the Tilly Aston Customer Council which allowed all customer of the Association automatic membership and input to the monitoring of services. Minute book of Blind Members Council annual reports and general meetingsassociation for the blind, blind members council -
Port Fairy Historical Society Museum and Archives
Photograph
In 1858 Hugh Wallace , undertaker and cabinet maker, moved from the Assembly Rooms at the corner of Gipps street, and opened his new Bank Hotel in Sackville street, next door to the grand Bank of Australasia. The hotel seems to have been the favourite meeting place for many of the sporting organisations of the time , including the Football, Rowing, Athletic and Gymnastics clubs . The second licensee was Thomas Pearson, who came to Belfast in 1855, working first for the Harbour master Capt. John Mills , then as the first Assistant Lighthouse keeper when it was built in 1859 . He was promoted to Lighthouse keeper 2 years later. The hotel continued in business with a further 8 licensees until it closed in 1918. Since which it has housed a diverse number of businesses, collecting a veranda along the way. It is still in use in Sackville street today. Quite a few of the Licensees of Belfast seem to have also had an interest in the Funeral business. Possibly, it was a good commercial undertaking, the same people providing them with a living selling spirituous liquor, and when they died of the effects , paid again for their burial. Early photograph Black and white photograph of Black and white photograph of double storied rendered detached building with doors at either end and two arched windows and door in centrehotel, building, sackville street, bank hotel, inn, business, commercial -
Vision Australia
Sign - Object, Association for the Blind New Beginnings acrylic sign, 1994
In 1994 the Association for the Blind began to use the phrase 'New beginnings' to signify a shift in the way that work was undertaken. Some new signage was created with this in mind, and this sign has 'New beginnings' and the Association for the Blind symbol of a square (filled with horizontal lines crossed by two diagonal lines), in black and blue and a circle in the middle with lines inside it. This sign was previously situated on the wall of the conference room at Kooyong in the Vision Resource Centre.1 plastic sign with AFB logoAssociation for the Blind New Beginningsassociation for the blind, signs -
Vision Australia
Photograph - Image, Royal Horticultural Society of Australia award, 1988
A metal circle sits on a brown wooden board. Within the circle are the words 'Royal Horticultural Society of Victoria' around the upper edge, an outline of a tree with a bush either side in the middle of the circle, and 'Award' below this. A gold coloured plate rests below this and reads: Community Horticultural Award 1987-88 This award was presented to The Association for the Blind George Vowell Centre, Mt Eliza in recognition of its outstanding contribution to the extensive uses of horticulture in an innovative programme being experienced in a practical way by visually-impaired elderly persons who are assisted by a strong volunteer group and staff. President: Val Sinclair 26 November 1988Wooden rectangle with 1 large round and 1 rectangular plaqueassociation for the blind, george vowell centre (mt eliza), awards, royal horticultural society of victoria -
Vision Australia
Image, The William Buckland Trust 1968, 1994
The William Buckland Trust (now Foundation) provides support for disadvantaged Victorians through support for four key areas. The growing need for space at the Association for the Blind's offices in Kooyong was constraining the amount of people who could benefit from it's programs. With the assistance of the William Buckland and Hecht Trusts, the adjoining blocks of flats fronting Glenferrie Road were acquired and eventually demolished to make way for the Vision Resource Centre. The support from the Buckland Trust in 1968 was not forgotten however, and this plaque acknowledges the support gained in purchasing the land.Digital image of metal plaques attached to a boardThis historic plaque recognises the outstanding contribution that the Buckland Foundation made to the purchase of the site on which the Vision Resource Centre now stands. The purchase of this building was made possible by a substantial gift from the William Buckland Trust 1968. The Buckland Foundation's continuing support of the Association for the Blind is gratefully acknowledged. November 1994.association for the blind, h & l hecht trust, william buckland trust -
Vision Australia
Photograph - Image, AFB Mildura plaques, 1996
Radio was a key way of communicating with the blind and low vision community across Victoria, ensuring that news and information could be shared quickly and publicly. Some centres raised funds to develop their own studios, with local content programs, based in AFB offices. Mildura began 3MPH in 1998 as the result of major fundraising for equipment and support from AFB. Additionally a low vision clinic was also officially opened in that same year.3 plastic plaques with black writing on silver background3MPH Major Donors The Association for the Blind wishes to thank the following major donors who contributed towards the establishment of 3MPH Rotary Club of Mildura Deakin Inc Wentworth Shire Council Lions Club of Mildura The H & L Hecht Trust W C F Thomas Charitable Trust Mildara Blass Limited 3MPH Honorary Taskforce Members Shirley Penny, Chairperson, Kevin Ashelford, Lois Beckwith, Rob Duffield, Cr Don McKinnon, Ross Lake, Bruce Penny, Cr Eddie Warhurst This plaque commemorates the official opening of the Mildura Low Vision Clinic by the Chief Executive Officer of the Association for the Blind Mr John Cook, 5th August 1998. This plaque commemorates the official opening of Radio 3MPH 107.5FM by the Mayor of the Mildura Rural City Council, Cr Eddie Warhurst, 12th March 1998.association for the blind, 3mph, mildura -
Vision Australia
Photograph - Image, Guiding Light at Elanora, 1964?
The Guiding Light structure was installed at AFB's Brighton office due to the efforts of President Bruce Small. Although removed some years ago, the structure was a symbol used by the Association for the Blind as a visual way to represent it's work within the community. 2 black and white images of the Guiding Light at Elanora Guiding Light symbol presented by Sir Bruce Small, connected with AFB's new wing Elanora S.E.C. of Victoria Printing and Photography Centre 23 Oct 1969 Neg No: E.E. 336/2, 336/3.association for the blind, state electricity commission of victoria -
City of Greater Bendigo - Civic Collection
Leisure object - Olympic Towel
Held in Melbourne from the 22nd November to 8th December, the 1956 Summer Olympics, officially known as the Games of the XVI Olympiad or the Melbourne Olympics were the first held outside of Europe or the USA. The Olympic torch relay passed through Central Victoria on its way from Cairns to Melbourne. Faith Yvonne Leech (31 March 1941 – 14 September 2013) was born in Bendigo and won a gold medal in the 4×100–metre freestyle relay and bronze in the 100-metre freestyle at the Melbourne Games.White cotton towel with green and gold horizontal stripes with the word Australia written across centre.left top manufacturers label; Olympic Games / 1956 / Manufactured by Supertex. Verso manufacturers label; Super Tex / All Cotton Fast Colour / Made in Australiamelbourne olympics, 1956, olympic games, bendigo, faith leech, faith leech memorial swimming pool, city of greater bendigo tourism -
Canterbury History Group
Photograph - Demolition of Theatre in Maling Road, 1992
The Maling Road theatre was badly damaged by fire in 1990 and demolished in 1993. Built as a Hoyts Theatre in 1942 it later became the New Canterbury Ballroom and in 1971 the Immanuel Revival Centre. Part of a set of 8 coloured photographs taken by Jan Pigot to record the demolition of some shops and the old theatre to make way for new shops in Maling Road.canterbury, maling road, maling theatre, new canterbury ballroom, immanuel revival centre -
Canterbury History Group
Photograph - Old Timber House in Maling Road, Jan Pigot, 1992
Part of a set of 8 coloured photographs taken by Jan Pigot to record the demolition of some buildings in Maling Road to make way for new shops and car park.Old timber house on corner of Scott Street and Maling Road 1992. canterbury, maling road, timber house, scott street, shopping centres -
Canterbury History Group
Photograph - Demolition of Maling Road Theatre, Jan Pigot, 1992
Part of a set of eight photographs taken by Jan Pigot to record the demolition of the old Maling Road Theatre and shops in 1992-3 to make way for new shops.canterbury, maling road, maling theatre, new canterbury ballroom, immanuel revival centre, shops -
Royal District Nursing Service (now known as Bolton Clarke)
Photograph - Photograph, black and white:, 1952
The photograph is taken in Mr. Spartel's home in St. Kilda. The MDNS uniform worn under her white gown was a dark grey cotton frock with a belt. The grey stiffened and brimmed felt hat had a light grey hatband with a red Maltese cross attached in the centre. Sister J. Faust is about to redress a wound on Mr. Spartel's abdomen. The photograph is a record of wound care being given by MDNS trained nurses in a patients home during the 1950s. This photograph appeared along with an article in The Sun newspaper Oct 17 1952.The Trained nurses (Nurses) of the Melbourne District Nursing Society (MDNS), from its inception in 1885, provided wound care to their patients, who ranged in age from the very young to the elderly. As research developed better products and dressing materials, the methods and medication applied to wounds changed. MDNS received Royal patronage in 1966 and as Royal District Nursing Service (RDNS), the Education department developed programs, such as the Wound Specialist program, and the Leg Ulcer Management Program, to provide their Trained nurses (Sisters) with methods of best quality care. The Sisters liaised with the patient’s Doctors and hospitals to provide information on the progress of patient’s wounds and to receive any change of wound care from the Doctors. When RDNS introduced Wound Care Specialists they carried out assessments and provided advice and support to the District Sisters working in the field. On the left of the black and white photograph is Mr. George Spartel, who has dark short curly hair and is lying on his bed. His shoulders and head are resting on the white pillow with his head against the wooden slatted backrest of his bed. His torso is bare and part of a white wound dressing can be seen on his upper abdominal area. A dark grey covering is over the lower portion of his body. He is smiling and looking up at Sister J. Faust from Melbourne District Nursing Society (MDNS) who is standing to the right of his bed.Sister Faust, who has dark curled hair, has her arms raised behind her neck as she reaches the ties on the white gown she is wearing over her uniform. She is wearing her grey brimmed uniform hat. Behind her is a wooden table, with a dark coloured radio on its right, and a jug with a doily over it, on the right.mdns, melbourne district nursing society (1885-1957), nurses, mdns uniforms, rdns, royal district nursing service, rdns wound care, mr george spartel, sister j. faust -
Royal District Nursing Service (now known as Bolton Clarke)
Photograph - Photograph, black and white, Barry Sutton, 1973
The photograph is taken in the car park at Royal District Nursing Service ( RDNS) Headquarters, 452 St. Kilda Rd, Melbourne. Sr. Harris is assisting to load the bassinet and the other nursing equipment into the RDNS Van for Mr. Pincher to deliver to the appropriate RDNS Centre or to patient's homes. In 1971 the Commission shop donated a Van to Royal District Nursing Service (RDNS), to be used by the Maintenance crew for delivery of equipment and transporting goods and documents between RDNS Centres and Headquarters. It was also used for transporting Maintenance staff, and the equipment they required, to do maintenance work at RDNS Centres as needed. The Commission Van was kept at the RDNS Service Centre at Chessell Street, South Melbourne. From the founding of the Melbourne District Nursing Society (MDNS), in 1885, known as the Royal District Nursing Service (RDNS) from 1966, equipment was loaned and demonstrated to patients, and their family members, to enable them to care for their loved ones in their home. In the 1970s RDNS employed a Physiotherapist who taught RDNS staff the correct transferring techniques, including the use of a hoist when this became available. RDNS staff taught and used these techniques in patient’s homes to undertake safe transfer of the patient and to reduce physical strain on RDNS Sisters and family members. Each RDNS Centre had a room or shed where equipment for loan was kept, and Headquarters also kept additional equipment which could be transported to Centres as required.On the left of the black and white photograph is Royal District Nursing (RDNS), Sister Betty Harris, who is standing side-on in front of the open door of a white Van. She wears glasses, has dark curled hair, and is smiling, as she has her arms outstretched with her right hand under a white bassinet as she passes it to Mr. Pincher who is standing in and leaning out of the opening of the Van. Mr. Pincher has wavy light colour hair and is smiling at Sr. Harris as he is holding the other end of the bassinet. He is wearing a dark cardigan over a white shirt. On the far left of the photograph, part of an RDNS car is seen and in front of this part of a walking frame. A pair of wooden crutches lean against the open Van door and a wheelchair and a 4 pronged stick are to the right of Sr. Harris. Behind them part of the Van with part of a window in its upper area are seen. Sr. Harris is wearing her RDNS uniform of a light grey skivvie under a darker V neck tunic style frock.rdns, royal district nursing service, rdns equipment, rdns uniform, sister betty harris, mr pincher -
Royal District Nursing Service (now known as Bolton Clarke)
Booklet - Annual Report, Melbourne District Nursing Society. Annual report. 1949-1950, 1950
The 65th Annual report includes details of the Committee of Management and Honorary Governors . Reports from the President, Matron of the After-Care Hospital, Matron of MDNS, the Social Service Officer and Honorary Obstetricians. There are also financial, Auxiliary and donor reports. Centre pages contain black and white photos for the After-Care Hospital.MDNS published annual reports from 1885. The reports document the people, social conditions, events and achievements of the Society from that time.Grey paper cover with red cross in centre and includes title and printers details. 33 pages with black text and 6 black and white photos in centre pagesmelbourne district nursing society, annual report, 1950 -
Royal District Nursing Service (now known as Bolton Clarke)
Photograph - Photograph, sepia, 1916
Matron Freeman and the MDNS Trained Nurses are wearing long grey coats and white pith helmets, which display a red Maltese cross.The Pith helmets are held on with a white veil. The two Bicycles with nursing bags attached to handlebars show the transport used by MDNS at that time.. Nurses - Back - L-R - O'Sullivan, Deans, Warren, Amess, Pat Lee and Jane with bicycle Front - L-R - Blanche Wilson, Matron Janie Freeman, Peake and Brown. In February 1885, 50 years after Melbourne was founded, it was recognized that nursing care was needed for the sick poor in inner Melbourne. The Melbourne District Nursing Society (MDNS) was founded with one Trained nurse (Nurse), and a second employed six months later. This was the first such service in Australia. They worked in the now CBD, ie from Spencer Street to Spring Street and from Victoria Parade to Flinders Street. From its inception the Society was at the forefront of health care. They provided high quality nursing care; educated their patients in the curing and prevention of disease; teaching the importance of cleanliness and good nutrition, both by verbal instruction and demonstration, even supplying soup and milk when needed. At that time they walked the streets and lane ways amid the slums of inner Melbourne carrying their nursing bag containing lotion ointments, powders, liniment, bandages, dressings, a case of spirits, and the Nurse's own clean apron. They loaned equipment, such as earthenware hot water bottles, splints, urinals, bed pans, bed cradles, feeding mugs, and air-cushions as well as providing clean bed linen and nightdresses as necessary. Trained Midwives began home births in August 1893 taking midwifery bundles and providing clothes for the babe as needed. This was arduous work, particularly in the heat of summer. Permission to use bicycles was given to the Nurses in 1898 and the Society decided to purchase their own in 1903. A business man offered ‘new free wheel’ bicycles at £13 each which included maintenance for one year. Bells and wooden frames were added, at a cost of £5 per frame, so the Nurses could carry extra equipment. Nurses’ bags were strapped to the handlebars. Soup was made for those in need 2-3 times a week and if patients could not arrange to have it collected the soup was delivered by the Nurses on their bicycles. The use of bicycles caused a change in uniform, with white pith helmets, and veils covering them and tied under their chin, now being used. In 1913 a Nurse had her Board and residence, uniforms, bicycles and laundry expensive provided and was paid £50 a year for her first six months. At the end of a year her salary is increased by £5, and later she earned £60 a year. Over the years the Nurses complained their veils became wet in the rain and asked for a change of uniform but this did not occur until 1921. Bicycles continued to be used in inner areas until 1945. From its inception the Society was at the forefront of health care and liaised with Doctors. They provided high quality nursing care to a range of people, often in destitute situations, some lying on rags on the floor as they had no bed, others with just a bed and maybe a thin blanket, a chair and nothing else. Their ages ranged from babes, children, adults to the elderly. The Nurses gave medications as ordered, dressed wounds e.g. to the injured, and surgical cases, and to those with leg ulcers; attended to patients with ‘surgical ailments’ such as ‘hip disease’; gave care to those with acute illnesses such as bronchitis, pleurisy, pneumonia, measles, and scarlet fever, as well as those with chronic illnesses such as consumption (tuberculosis), heart disease, arthritis, cancer, debility, neuritis and paralysis. They educated their patients, and their Carers, in the curing and prevention of disease; teaching the importance of hygiene, cleanliness, ventilation and good nutrition. They taught them, by verbal instruction and demonstration, how to make poultices, to make and apply bandages, apply medical appliances such as splints.Sepia photograph on brown card mount with 'Kirk Studio' on bottom right of the card. The photograph shows Matron Freeman and nine Melbourne District Nursing Society (MDNS) Trained nurses, (Nurses), with bicycles. The back row of six Nurses are standing and the Nurses either end are holding bicycles which have leather oblong nursing bags attached to the handlebars with two straps. The front row are seated. All are wearing the MDNS uniform of long dark coats and white helmets, with white scarves covering them and tied under their chins. A Maltese cross can be seen in the centre of the helmets. Both bicycles have two large wire spoked wheels at either end of the black V shape bicycle frame; a rubber tyre runs around the outside of each wheel. The metal handlebars are a horizontal configuration and are attached with a central column into a black vertical column at the front of the V shape bicycle frame which has 'fork shaped' thin metal pierces running down either side of the wheel attaching the frame to the central hub of the wheel. The rear wheel is attached the same way to a central column at the rear of the frame which runs up to V shape solid seat. At the bottom of the V of the frame a pedal is attached with a rotating arm on either side of the bicycle and on the right side the rotating arm is attached to a sprocket which has a chain running around it back to a smaller sprocket on the hub of the back wheel. The chain has a thin metal guard over it. There are narrow thin metal mud guards running a short distance above the top of each wheel.Photographer's embossed stampmdns, melbourne district nursing society, mdns uniforms, mdns transport, mdns matron, rdns, royal district nursing service, nurse blanche wilson, nurse pat lee, nurse deans, nurse o'sullivan, nurse warren, nurse amess, nurse peak, nurse brown, matron janie freeman -
Royal District Nursing Service (now known as Bolton Clarke)
Photograph - Digital image, c.1922
The photograph appeared in the MDNS Annual Report of 1922 and is taken on the veranda of the Melbourne District Nursing Society (MDNS) Nurses Home at 39 Victoria Parade, Collingwood. The Sisters lived and worked out of the Nurses Home from June 1914 to 1953. They attended the disadvantaged in the inner suburbs of Melbourne. The Sisters and Matron are wearing the grey uniform and hat with a red Maltese cross is in the centre of the hatband which was introduced in 1921. These Sisters, plus two others visited 29.079 visits in the metropolitan area and in suburbs as far distant as Elwood, Glen Huntly, Deepdene, Essendon and Fairfield. Of the 1666 patients on the books 394 were midwifery patients nursed in their own homes. It is believed the Matron in the photograph is Matron Reynolds. In February 1885 it was recognized that nursing care was needed for the sick poor in inner Melbourne. The Melbourne District Nursing Society (MDNS) was founded on the 17th of February with one Trained nurse (Nurse) who qualified under the Hospital training system, commencing on the 1st of May, and a second employed six months later, both working in the now CBD, ie from Spencer Street to Spring Street and from Victoria Parade to Flinders Street. From its inception the Society was at the forefront of health care. They provided high quality nursing care; educated their patients in the curing and prevention of disease; teaching the importance of cleanliness and good nutrition, both by verbal instruction and demonstration, even supplying soup and milk when needed. At that time they walked the streets and lane ways amid the slums of inner Melbourne carrying their nursing bag containing lotion, ointments, powders, liniment, bandages, dressings, a case of spirits, and the Nurse's own clean apron. The also supplied equipment, such as earthenware hot water bottles, splints, urinals, bed pans, bed cradles, feeding mugs, and air-cushions as well as providing clean bed linen and nightdresses and clothes as necessary. In 1891 the first Nurses Home was rented for 1 year at £65 per annum at 66 Cardigan Street, Carlton; Nurses wages were now £60 per annum. A Doctor gave lectures from the Home to the public on the understanding and prevention of diseases. The Society decided to commence a Midwifery Service and Nurse Fowler, who had previously worked for the Society, was re-employed as their first trained Midwife. She began home births in August 1893 giving them Ante Natal care, taking midwifery bundles and providing clothes for the babe as needed. Following birth, she gave Post-natal care to the mother and babe twice a day for three days and then daily for a week, and longer if required. She resigned after twelve months and Nurse Wilkie was appointed to the position. As well as walking, the Nurses used Public transport in the limited areas it ran, though a taxi was used by the Nurses and Midwife in emergencies and at night. Late in 1891 the Society moved to larger rented premises at 49 Drummond Street and in 1902 moved to 188 Leicester Street, Carlton. The Nurses were becoming exhausted, particularly in the heat of summer. Permission to use bicycles was given to them in 1898 and the Society decided to purchase their own in 1903. A business man offered ‘new free wheel’ bicycles at £13 each, which included maintenance for one year. Bells and wooden frames were added at a cost of £5 per frame so the Nurses could carry extra equipment. Nurses bags were strapped to the handlebars. Soup was made for those in need 2-3 times a week, and if patients could not arrange to have it collected, the soup was delivered by the Nurses on their bicycles. Their use caused a change in uniform, with white pith helmets, and veils covering them and tied under their chins, now being used. In 1904 the Society relocated to rented premises at 5 Royal Terrace, Nicholson Street in Fitzroy. In 1913 a Nurse had her ‘board and residence, uniforms, bicycles and laundry expenses’ provided and was paid £50 a year for her first six months. At the end of a year her salary was increased by £5, and later she earned £60 a year. Over the years the Nurses complained their veils became wet in the rain and asked for a change of uniform, but this did not occur until 1921. In 1914 the Society was at last able to purchase their own premises, 'Floraston' 39 Victoria Parade in Collingwood. During the Spanish Influenza epidemic, in 1919, MDNS appealed for assistance to procure Motor vehicles so the Nurses could visit an influx of cases. Through trusts, grants and donations four 'Ford 'T Model' cars were procured which enabled the Nurses to triple their visits. It was recorded on the 21st of May, that the seven Nurses had visited 1,212 persons with influenza in the last three months, how many visits to each is not known. In the whole of 1918 the Nurses, including midwifery cases, visited 1,100 persons. It was also recorded on May 7th the Nurses were delivering 100 quarts of soup to the needy each morning. In winter they also carried wood in the cars to distribute to their destitute patients as needed. In 1921-22 many of the people nursed by the Trained nurses (Sisters) suffered from malignant and tubercular disease, often the Sister would visit to find the patient was desperately ill living in a room alone and no one there to even give them a drink. In these cases the Sister would send them to hospital, but if possible most cases were nursed in their home. During July 1921- 30 June 1922 the four Midwifery trained Sisters averaged 8 confinement cases a week and sometimes gave Post Natal care to 15 to 18 patients a day. At the time of confinement a Student from the Women's Hospital accompanied the MDNS Sister and if complications occurred the patient was transferred to the Women's Hospital. The Society often had to provide blankets, sheets, set of baby clothes and night gowns for the mother. In many instances the Society provided milk for many months. The midwifery Sisters often travelled long distances in the cars Through constant use the cars were in such a poor state they were sold in 1927 and the Sisters went back to using public transport, as well as their bicycles which continued to be used in inner areas until 1945.. The Midwives used taxis when a birth was imminent. Black and white photograph showing 9 Sisters, 5 standing at rear and Matron, in the centre, of 4 seated Sisters on a balcony wearing their Melbourne District Nursing Society (MDNS) uniforms of grey coats, with revered collars and belt, over their partly seen grey uniforms with white collars. Five of the Sisters are wearing glasses. All are wearing grey brimmed hats with a Maltese cross in the centre of the lighter colour hatband. Part of deep metal scroll work of the veranda rail can be seen. A concrete wall is behind the Sisters.mdns, mdns matron, miss reynolds, royal district nursing service, rdns, melbourne district nursing society, mdns uniforms -
Royal District Nursing Service (now known as Bolton Clarke)
Photograph - Photograph, black and white:, Barry Sutton, 10.08.1971
Sr. Scott is in a room in the Royal District Nursing Service (RDNS) Melbourne Centre. She is wearing the RDNS grey uniform dress which has the insignia "Royal District Nursing Service" written in white on a grey background attached to the upper sleeves. The photograph is showing some of the equipment which is available for temporary loan to RDNS patients.From the founding of the Melbourne District Nursing Society (MDNS), in 1885, known as the Royal District Nursing Service (RDNS) from 1966, equipment was loaned and demonstrated to patients and their family members, to enable them to care for their loved ones in their home. In the 1970s RDNS employed a Physiotherapist who taught RDNS staff the correct transferring techniques, including the use of a hoist when this became available. RDNS staff taught and used these techniques in patient’s homes to undertake safe transfer of the patient and to reduce physical strain on RDNS nursing staff and family members. Each RDNS Centre had a room or shed where equipment for loan was kept. Headquarters also kept additional equipment which could be transported to Centres as required. Black and white digital image portraying Sister Scott, who is smiling and has her dark hair drawn up, checking equipment. She is holding a bath seat in her hands. Behind her on a table, left to right, is an air cushion, draw sheets, male urinal, female urinal, bed pan and a sheepskin which is in front of a wooden board with rows of cup hooks and names under each hook. In the left foreground is a hoist with a white sling hanging from either side of the front hanger. To its right is a closed wheelchair, a 4 pronged walking stick, and a commode to the right of Sr. Scott.Barry Sutton Photographer. Quote KL 49rdns, rdns equipment, rdns uniform, royal district nursing service, sister scott