Seal skin straps and webbing were introduced into the Victorian Alps by European skiers. Enthusiasts travelled to enjoy the snow and to explore the Victorian Alps including the Bogong High Plains. This equipment enabled them to travel over snow without slipping when going up hills. They took the skins off when they wanted to slide down hills. In later years, waxes were used for cross country skiing and then 'fish tail' markings on the back of skis to enable skiers to travel distances up and down mountains. Later developments also included motor transport (replacing horses to get to the snow line) and roads to take skiers to the ski fields and mechanised tows to take skiers up mountains so they could ski down (downhill skiing). Skate skiing has also developed as another form of skiing.Skiers visited the Bogong High Plains during summer and winter to explore and enjoy the High Plains. The equipment used was a forerunner to the variety used today and the different types of skiing done today. Falls Creek was developed during the construction of the Kiewa Electric Hydro Scheme and was influenced by the number of Europeans working on the scheme and their desire to make use of the snow during winter.Each Seal skin has: Seal skin sewn onto one side of a strap of webbing. There is a webbing loop on the front that slips over a small point at the front of the ski. There is a webbing strap attached to the back of the seal skin sole coming over the back of the ski that clips metal fasteners onto a loop of webbing behind the boot.skiing. snow. high plains. seal skins. cross country skiing. alpine sports.

This Register is the first Baptismal Register for the Anglican Church in Warrnambool and District. The Vicar at the time, Peter Tuelin Beamish, oversaw the development of the first Church and the subsequent building of Christ Church.Large book, hard covered with leather spine and corners. End pages marbled paper. Baptismal entries under headings: When Baptized; When born; Child's Christian name; Parent's name-Christian, Surname; Abode; Quality or Profession; By whom the ceremony was performedof, warrnambool, church, england, anglican, parish of warrnambool, baptisms, beamish, christenings, church records

Eliza Rutledge (1820-1888) was the daughter of Rupert and Jane (nee Newby) Kirk. She married William Rutledge in St James’ Church, Sydney on 18th August, 1840. She and William had five children two sons and five daughters. Recorded accounts tell that Eliza was “beloved for her kindness and hospitality” and that she and William kept open house for all manner of social events and occasions. Eliza died at Farnham Park, Dennington, on 31st August 1888. The marriage of Eliza to William Rutledge, a man of historical importance in the development of Port Fairy, Warrnambool and the western district of Victoria, places her as a person of importance.Her daughter Susan Fleetwood is also memorialised in a window in Christ Church, Warrnambool.Her son, Thomas Forster is memorialised in a tablet near the two windows for Eliza.Stained-glass lancet window, south wall, main nave. A depiction of the risen Jesus.In fond memory of ELIZA RUTLEDGE who was born on / 12th February AD 1820, who died on 31st August AD 1888, this / window is erected as a token of filial affection by her / loving children Thomas F Rutledge, Martha Hamilton and Edith McKellar.rutledge, christ church warrnambool, eliza rutledge, eliza kirk, farnham park

Eliza Rutledge (1820-1888) was the daughter of Rupert and Jane (nee Newby) Kirk. She married William Rutledge in St James’ Church, Sydney on 18th August, 1840. She and William had five children, two sons and five daughters. Recorded accounts tell that Eliza was “beloved for her kindness and hospitality” and that she and William kept open house for all manner of social events and occasions. Eliza died at Farnham Park, Dennington, on 31st August 1888. She is buried at Tower Hill Cemetery. The marriage of Eliza to William Rutledge, a man of historical importance in the development of Port Fairy, Warrnambool and the western district of Victoria, places her as a person of importance.Their daughter Susan Fleetwood is also memorialised in a window in Christ Church, Warrnambool. Their son Thomas Forster is also memorialised with a tablet positioned near the Eliza Rutledge windows. Stained glass, lancet window, south wall, main nave. Depiction of the ascension of Christ."By Thy Glorious Ascension Good Lord Deliver Us" In Latin: +In Memoriam+ Elizae Rutledge quae pridie idus Februarias/ MDCCXX nata pridie kalendas Septembres MDCCCXXXVIII obit/ liberi amantissimi Gulielmus Rutledge et Susanna Fleetwood pietatis/ indicio hane Jenestram posuerant Beati qui sunt mundi corde.rutledge, christ church warrnambool, eliza rutledge, eliza kirk, farnham park

This book gives details on the lives of the artists Rex Battarbee and Albert Namatjira. It is written by Martin Edmonds. The book explores the relationship between the two artists and the effect on each other of artistic philosophies and techniques, described as each being ‘a catalyst and a primer for the other, each shimmering alongside the other’. This book is of considerable interest as Rex Battarbee was born and reared in Warrnambool and his older sister Florinda was his first art teacher and an important influence in his artistic development. She was also a talented artist and a well-known art teacher in Warrnambool and many of her works survive. The Warrnambool Art Gallery holds works by both Rex and Florinda Battarbee, with the works of the latter belonging to the Warrnambool and District Historical Society. The Battarbee family members were prominent in Warrnambool business and artistic circles at the end of the 19th century and the beginning of the 20th century. Rex’s father was a shopkeeper and had a bacon and ham curing business and the family lived in East Warrnambool at ‘Skiddaw’. This is a soft cover book of 342 pages. It tells the stories of the artists Rex Battarbee and Albert Namatjira. It contains a Contents page, an Introduction, ten chapters, a Note on Sources and Acknowledgements. The front cover has a black and white photograph of Battarbee and Namatjira. The text includes several black and white photographs. rex battarbee, albert namatjira, florinda battarbee, history of australian art, history of warrnambool, warrnambool art gallery

This window was removed from the Marcus Saltau House building in the Warrnambool and District Base Hospital when the building was demolished in 2009. Marcus Saltau House was erected in 1938 to provide for intermediate, private and midwifery patients. The builder was Ernie Harris of Warrnambool. The building commemorated the work of Marcus Saltau who was on the Warrnambool Hospital committee for over forty years and the President of that committee for thirty years. Marcus Saltau (1869-1945) was a Warrnambool produce merchant and politician involved in many Warrnambool ventures, including the establishment and development of the Warrnambool Woollen Mill and the Nestles Milk Factory at Dennington. The Jean Buick Saltau Maternity Ward at the Warrnambool Hospital was established by Marcus Saltau in 1928 in memory of his first wife. This window is retained as a memento of a significant building in Warrnambool that no longer exists.This is a circular window with four triangular panels of glass contained within a white painted ridged wood frame.marcus saltau house warrnambool, marcus saltau, ernie harris warrnambool, jean buick saltau maternity ward, warrnambool woollen mill

In the early 20th century there were many small machines and instruments developed to use as home cures. These included massage and vibratory instruments and those taking advantage of the growing use of electric currents in the treatment of nervous and mental health issues. This machine was used to produce a electric current to use on the human body to alleviate ailments that included nervous conditions, neuralgia, lumbago, back ache, muscle soreness and even toothache. Developments in allied health treatment saw the waning of the popularity of these kinds of medical aids by the mid 20th century.This machine is of great interest as an example of the items used by people in the late 19th and early 20th century as home cures for all sorts of ailments that afflicted people at the time.This is rectangular wooden box with a lid connected with metal hinges. The inside of the lid has a paper insert with printed material on it. The box has a metal mechanism inside and this includes a metal magnet, a pulley with a rubber belt and two round metal drums covered in dark blue felt. On the outside of the box is a metal handle that is connected to the mechanism inside. There is a metal closing catch on the outside of the box. There are also two wires on the outside of the box with one of these connected to the inside mechanism. The wires have hollow brass cylinders attached to the ends. The box is heavily stained and scuffed.‘Magneto Electric Machine for Nervous & Other Diseases’allied health in early 20th century, warrnambool, history of warrnambool

Brauer College is situated in Caramut Road, Warrnambool . It's origins date back to 1913 when Warrnambool Technical School was established in Timor Street, Warrnambool. In 1972 this school was re located to Caramut Road and in 1990 was renamed Brauer College after Dr. Alfred Brauer , a noted doctor in Warrnambool closely connected to the development of the Technical School.These items are of interest as mementoes of Brauer College, a leading educational institution in Warrnambool today. .1 Circular metal tie pin with burgundy outer circle edged in golden lines and text, burgundy stylised sea horse with gold coloured outline, stylised green waves with gold coloured lines in centre. Pin and press clip on back roughened gold coloured metal . .2 Oval metal brooch with golden rim, top section is green, middle section is burgundy, lower section is pale yellow. A stylised pale yellow, golden edged sea horse is sited on the right hand side at the base of the middle section and extends into the upper area. There is text in the middle section. A pin clip on the roughened gold coloured back. .3 Identical to .2.1 BRAUER COLLEGE .2 BRAUER COLLEGE WARRNAMBOOL .3 BRAUER COLLEGE WARRNAMBOOL

This camera was donated along with a number of cameras and it is unknown what sort of camera it housed. Donated by a member of the Toleman familyThis camera case is of little significance as an individual piece but has more when placed in the continuum of camera development over the 19th and 20th centuries.Tan leather case which would house a small camera with a small strap in same colour attached with studs at either side.The sides are reinforced with thick cardboard which is stitched to the middle section with thick cotton. The cardboard section is lined with majenta coloured fine velvet fabric It fastens with a tan coloured stud. There is a name inside which has been covered with red ink making it unreadable. camera case, warrnambool

A manual detachable camera lens is used to focus the subject of which the photograph is to be taken . They have adjustments for distance and clarity while more complex ones can be fine tuned to a much greater degree. Photographs provide a invaluable resource from an historic perspective of past times people and events.This lens has significance as part of the continuum of camera development and use. It was owned by a local Warrnambool person who had a keen interest in photography..1 Black plastic and metal detachable camera lens with metal sections and graduated markings around the cylinder . There is a screw cap on one end where the lens is attached to the camera for use and the other end covering the lens itself has the brand name across the middle of cap. .2 Black leather cylindrical case with strap handle attached with silver metal hiinge and metal zipper towards the top section of the case. The lidded section has the brand name imprinted into the surface of the top..1 Lens made in Japan. Graduated scale from 1.5/5 to 20/50 .2 Soligor camera lens, warrnambool, history of warrnambool, soligor lens

These labels or stickers were produced as part of the celebrations and promotional material to be used during the period 1979 to 1982 when Warrnambool was the official Premier Town in Victoria. The title was awarded by the Premier of Victoria with scores allocated for heritage and environment, community participation, industrial and commercial development, tourism, land use and public works and community facilities. Warrnambool won the inaugural award in 1958, in 1979-82 and in 1988-91.These labels are of minor interest as reminders of one of the times when Warrnambool was awarded the title of Victoria’s Premier Town.These are eight green labels on a perforated sheet. They have black printing and an adhesive backing and are designed to be detached and used separately as stickers or labels.Warrnambool Premier Town 1979-82warrnambool premier town 1979-1982, history of warrnambool, label

This small film development system was developed by Kodak for the amateur photographer. It was a small portable system which made the development of film more accessible to the enthusiast.This is an interesting item and quite innovative and as such has historic and scientific and research significance.A stained wooden rectangular box with dovetailed corners and a lid which is loose and sits inside a ridge.There are two holes drilled in both the longer sides of the box. The lid has a smaller raised section with Kodak Film Tank in red and black text a paper chart is stuck to the underpart of the lid..The interior of the box is painted black and there is a metal cylindrical tin with a lid and inner section.There is a spool attached to one end of the box.There are four loose items, two long prongs with black plastic knobs, a similar length implement with a straight shaft and hooked section on the end and a metal spool.Kodak film Tank on the lid of the box and the lid of the cylinder. The bottom of the cylinder has stamped around the outer rim, " manufactured by Eastman Kodak Co, Rochester NY. Pat Aug 26. 02 May 23 05 May 21 07.Sep 17 07. On the under part of the lid stamped into the timber, ' by Eastman Kodak Co, Rochester NY.kodak film tank, 1907 kodak film tank, warrnambool history

This photographic equipment was manufactured by Eastman Kodak for amateur photographers. It enabled them to develop their films in a simple and effective manner. This box and contents have no known local provenance but are retained as an example of early photographic equipment. The items will be useful for display. This is a Kodak film tank development box and contents. The box is rectangular and wooden with a light brown polished surface. The sides of the box rest on a base that is slightly larger than the box sides. The lid is a separate piece and slots into ridges on the inside of the top of the box. Under the lid is a printed set of instructions on paper. Inside, the box is painted black and on one side it has an affixed metal piece for the attachment of the film spool. A removable solid cylindrical silver metal drum is inside the box. This has an outer covering of corrugated cardboard. There are three unattached pieces inside the box– two silver metal rods with handles and one silver metal rod with two larger end pieces. At the base of the inside is a piece of paper with instructions for use.Kodak Film Tank Kodak Film Tank B Time and Temperature for Tank Development Manufactured by Eastman Kodak Co. Pat: Aug 26, 02 May 23, 05 May 21, 07 Sep 17, 07 vintage photography equipment, warrnambool

These badges were produced in the 1950s to raise funds for the Lyndoch Old Folks Home in Warrnambool. This aged care facility at the mouth of the Hopkins River was opened in 1952 when the property known as Lyndoch was purchased. Lyndoch had been established in the 1880s by the Melbourne businessman George Rolfe who bought up a considerable amount of land in the Warrnambool district in the late 19th century. After George Rolfe died his step-daughter, Florence Lake built the bungalow known as Lyndoch and this building was the basis for the development of the property into an aged care facility. Today the facility has been considerably expanded and is known as Lyndoch Living. These badges are retained as mementoes of the type of fund-raising ventures conducted in the 1950s to raise funds for local charities in Warrnambool – in this case ‘Lyndoch’ Old Folks Home..1 A metal badge with green lettering on a cream-coloured background. The rusted back has a metal clip and the name of the maker is printed around the edge of the badge. .2 As above except that the lettering is very faded and the clip at the back does not work. In aid of “Lyndoch” Old Folks Home A.W.Patrick N. Fitzroy Vict. lyndoch living aged care facility, history of warrnambool

This is a book of 172 pages. The front cover has three black and white photographs with a background of a colour photograph of a country scene. The printing is red, white and blue. The back cover has red printing and a colour plan of country allotments. . The pages contain printed text, black and white photographs and other images. non-fictionHistorical details of William Wall and his family and descendantswilliam wall, hotels of warrnambool and district

This is a map of the Farnham Special Survey. In 1843 William Rutledge purchased this Special Survey of 5,120 acres and named it Farnham. This Survey extended from Tower Hill to the Merri River at Dennington. The map appears to date from the 1850s This early map is of considerable significance as it shows details of the Farnham Special Survey. William Rutledge and his survey are important influences in the development of Warrnambool and district with the establishment of settlements at Killarney, Yangery and Tower Hill.A hand drawn map on waxed paper in brown, black and blue ink. It shows Armstrong's Bay, sea, Crown Land , the names of properties and some roads. It includes a compass direction diagram.farnham special survey

This historic site of Australia’s first open-air gallery is being redeveloped in 2023 for multi-housing fronting the Research Creek. In 1955, Ian and Joan Hassall moved to Eltham. They took a property on the corner of Zig Zag Road and Main Road, Eltham, north of the township (later known as 1215 Main Road). In July 1962, they opened their open-air gallery. Hassall’s Roadside Galley, “…cradled in the fold of hills to the north of Eltham” inspired by Ian’s own experience of exhibitions along the Embankment in London. The property included remnants of a stone quarry, paintings were hung on screens and removed at night. Various pedestals, that looked like giant mushrooms displayed sculpture, pottery, and jewellery. It had a small natural amphitheatre at the foot of a little sandstone cliff that fall away to the bed of a stream. To enter the gallery, a visitor crossed a small freestone bridge of oriental design, built by Hassall from local stone. The bridge spanned the stream flowing beneath great willow trees. Near the entrance wooden figures were displayed formed from pieces of local wood, said to speak to Ian Hassall’s sense of fun. Hassall’s Gallery was the first gallery of its kind in Australia. Ian became a full-time artist and when it first opened, he exhibited paintings he had made while touring the outback with writer and fellow Eltham resident Alan Marshall. He also exhibited other Australian artists over time including locals Lindsay Edward and Peter Glass.daryl morrow collection, eltham heights luxury living, hassalls roadside gallery, housing development, real estate development, research creek, 2023-07-10

This historic site of Australia’s first open-air gallery is being redeveloped in 2023 for multi-housing fronting the Research Creek. In 1955, Ian and Joan Hassall moved to Eltham. They took a property on the corner of Zig Zag Road and Main Road, Eltham, north of the township (later known as 1215 Main Road). In July 1962, they opened their open-air gallery. Hassall’s Roadside Galley, “…cradled in the fold of hills to the north of Eltham” inspired by Ian’s own experience of exhibitions along the Embankment in London. The property included remnants of a stone quarry, paintings were hung on screens and removed at night. Various pedestals, that looked like giant mushrooms displayed sculpture, pottery, and jewellery. It had a small natural amphitheatre at the foot of a little sandstone cliff that fall away to the bed of a stream. To enter the gallery, a visitor crossed a small freestone bridge of oriental design, built by Hassall from local stone. The bridge spanned the stream flowing beneath great willow trees. Near the entrance wooden figures were displayed formed from pieces of local wood, said to speak to Ian Hassall’s sense of fun. Hassall’s Gallery was the first gallery of its kind in Australia. Ian became a full-time artist and when it first opened, he exhibited paintings he had made while touring the outback with writer and fellow Eltham resident Alan Marshall. He also exhibited other Australian artists over time including locals Lindsay Edward and Peter Glass.daryl morrow collection, eltham heights luxury living, hassalls roadside gallery, housing development, real estate development, research creek, 2023-07-13

Angela Wall 1988 Entrant No. 129 Ref: Series 34, Items 30, 101, 102 SHIRE OF ELTHAM COMMUNITY PHOTOGRAPHIC SURVEY Photography is an artform which many of us practice, sometimes purely for artistic pursuit, sometimes to record the people and events in our lives. In 1988, as part of a local Bicentennial project, the Shire of Eltham conducted the Eltham Community Photographic Survey. Up to 100 entries were to be selected by a panel of photographers for entry into the Eltham Photographic Survey Exhibition. Entries had to be submitted by May 13, 1988. Entrants whose images were selected for the exhibition were contacted and requested to further submit an entry form providing entrant’s name, area of residence, age, and proposed captions. These details were then used to produce labels for the exhibition mounts. Where negatives had not been supplied, these were requested to support the display of printed enlargements mounted on 10” x 8” cardboard. The mounted prints were made available post exhibition for sale at $8.50 each for colour prints and $7.00 for B&W prints. Residents in the Shire were invited to collect a free roll of film and take a photograph of what they either liked or did not like about the area. A total of 160 entrants submitted multiple entries for the exhibition. Of those selected for exhibition, entrants ranged in age from 9 to 70 years. All custom colour and black and white printing for the exhibition was completed by Wattle Studios of Eltham. The Eltham Photographic Survey was jointly auspiced by the Shire of Eltham and Wattle Studios, of 953 Main Road, Eltham. The project was greatly assisted by: • David McRitchie, Media Studies Lecturer Victoria College, Rusden Campus. • Ian and Annette Toohill of Wattle Studios • Tracy Naughton, Eltham Community Arts Officer • Neville Emerson Pty. Ltd. • Superior Press, Eltham • Kodak Australasia Pty. Ltd. • Agfa Gevaert Ltd. • Townsend Colourtech Pty. Ltd. • The Australian Bicentennial Authority • Eleanor Bowers, Secretary, Eltham Arts Council The exhibition was placed on display in the Woolworths Arcade, Eltham between Monday June 6th and Saturday June 11, 1988. It was also intended to hold the exhibition at a venue in the Shire’s North Riding from Monday, June 20 to Friday June 24. It was then displayed at the Were Street Theatre, Montmorency from Friday, June 24 to Thursday, July 7. Series 34: Eltham Community Photographic Survey 1988 - Prints & Documentation Series consists of 117 photographs of Shire scenes taken by members of the community. Items I - 41 are larger photographs mounted on card, which were exhibited. Items 42 - 117 are unmounted copies, alternative takes and other entries. Corresponding negatives contained in Series 35: Eltham Community Photographic Survey 1988 – Negatives which consists of 267 colour and B&W negatives and one colour slide of Shire scenes taken by members of the community. The negatives are arranged by the entrant number of the photographer. The Eltham Community Photographic Survey collection is significant to the local community as it was curated by the local community - ordinary people of all ages - representing what they liked and did not like in the area where they lived. It represents an unfiltered representation of the Shire of Eltham as it was in 1988. It also represents one of many projects as part of the national programme of events and celebrations to commemorate the bicentenary. It is a time capsule of life in the 1980s of this urban and rural municipality in Melbourne's north. Front: Entrant No. and name on printed label Rear: Entrant No., name and address on printed label; also 'Series 34' and the 'Item No.' in pencilshire of eltham archives, bicentennial project, eltham, eltham community photographic survey, eltham photographic survey exhibition, series 34, series 35, angela wall, film - kodak ga 100 5095, housing estate, power transmission lines, real estate development, research (vic.), reynolds road, scan - 35mm negative, subdivison lots

EDENDALE FARM Edendale Farm is Nillumbik Shire Council's environment centre situated in Gastons Road, Eltham between the railway and the Diamond Creek. The homestead on the property was built in 1896 and is of historical significance, being the subject of a Heritage Overlay under the Nillumbik Planning Scheme. The Edendale property was originally part of an extensive land purchase in 1852 from the Crown by pioneer Eltham farmer Henry Stooke. He initially purchased 51 acres and later expanded his holdings by purchasing another three adjacent Crown allotments extending northerly from Josiah Holloway's Little Eltham subdivision. Despite clearing the land, Stooke did not build on this property, choosing to live on his property "Rosehill" at Lower Plenty. In 1896 Thomas Cool, Club Manager of the Victoria Coffee Palace in Melbourne purchased 7 acres of the original Stooke land and built the house now known as Edendale. Cool did not farm the land, instead using it as a gentleman’s residence, retiring to Eltham at weekends. In 1918 he purchased an additional 7 acres but in 1919 he sold the property. Later owners included J.W. Cox, the Gaston family and D. Mummery. In the 1980s the Eltham Shire Council purchased the site for use as a Council depot, but this use did not proceed. Subsequently, it was used as the Council pound. The Edendale Farm Pet Education and Retention Centre was established in the summer of 1988/1989 and was set up to replace the existing dog kennels with a high standard pet retention centre. The design style of the building was established to compliment the features of the existing house. It was equipped with 10 retention pens, a veterinary room and a pet education area where school children and other interested parties learnt about pet care procedures. It was later developed into a community farm and was run by an advisory committee and in 2000 it became an Environment Centre. In early 2006 an advisory committee was established for the development of a master plan for future development at Edendale Farm. The committee included Russell Yeoman, a former long-time shire planner and founding member of the Eltham District Historical Society. At the time of filming the Master Plan and future for Edendale was about continuing to develop Edendale as a centre of environment learning and looking at expanding displays and school program, running a lot more of life-long learning and workshops around sustainable living.edendale community farm, eltham, gastons homestead, gastons road, shire of nillumbik, video recording

About former Shire / City council memorabilia. On the reverse side an article "Timing was the problem: chief" regarding Nillumbik CEO Barry Rochford dismissing claims that coulcil failed to follow correct statutory procedure when announcing the release of development plans for thje former Eltham Shire Office site in which developer Dallas Howgate intended to build a service station, convenience store, fast food outlet and community facilities including an information desk and meeting area.895 main road, barry rochford, bev marshall, dallas howgate, eltham shire office, nillumbik shire council, banyule city council, city of heidelberg, david hay, heidelberg historical society, honour board, joint memorabilia taskforce, mayoral chain, peter williams, roma o'callaghan, shire of diamond valley, shire of eltham

Produced by Contour Consultants Australia Pty Ltd on behalf of Dallas Price Homes Pty Ltd as part of the planning process for redevelopment of the former Eltham Shire Office site at 895 Main Road. In 1963 the Shire of Eltham purchased the Shillinglaw property of approximately 2 acres in Main Road, Eltham for the widening of Main Road and as a site for new Council offices. This land, which contained the Shillinglaw Cottage (c1878-80), was the remaining section of the Shillinglaw family holding that originally comprised 30 acres, being Lot 90 of Holloway's 1851 subdivision. Eltham Council intended to demolish this cottage, but through extensive community action it was saved, funds were raised, and it was relocated to the current site adjacent to the Eltham Library. The new Eltham Shire Offices opened in 1965 were designed to ensure retention of the three Italian Cypress trees that were located outside the Shillinglaw Cottage. In 1971 the building was extended at the southern end to provide additional space, including for the Eltham Library and Council's Engineering Department. Renovations were undertaken to the offices during 1987. The Victorian State Government commenced to restructure local government in 1994, which resulted in the establishment of the Shire of Nillumbik and the cessation of the Shire of Eltham. This new Nillumbik Shire Council was headed by government appointed commissioners, who decided in 1995 to put the former Eltham Shire offices on the market. Eventually in June 1996 the property was sold for $1.1 million and the building was subsequently demolished. A planning application for the site was then submitted to Nillumbik Shire Council in September 1996 for construction of a 24-hour service station, convenience store, cafe/takeaway food premises, a retail facility and community facility. There were many objections to this proposed development and in controversial circumstances a planning permit was granted by the Nillumbik Shire Council commissioners. After protracted actions involving a planning panel and a planning advisory committee, established by the Minister for Local Government, the proposal was eventually rejected as not satisfying the requirements of the planning scheme. In December 1997 the purchaser withdrew from the contract of sale, just prior to Council announcing a withdrawal from the contract. While there have been a number of possible development proposals considered by subsequent Nillumbik Shire Councils, this site has remained vacant since July 1996. TIMELINE (Prepared by Jim Connor, Eltham District Historical Society- March 2018- Based on press, council and personal records) June 1996 - Eltham Shire offices sold to Dallas Price Homes for $1.1 million. July 1996 - Shire office building demolished against community's wishes. Council claimed building riddled with asbestos. September 1996 - Planning application submitted to Nillumbik Shire Council to construct on the site a 24 hours Shell service station, convenience store, Hungry Jacks café/takeaway food premises, a retail facility and community facility. 213 objections and petition of over 1400 signatures received. Minister for Planning and Local Government orders an independent investigation into valuation and sale. 9 October 1996 - Permit granted by Nillumbik Shire Council commissioners, in controversial circumstances. A Planning Special Committee consisting of 3 commissioners and 3 community representatives considered 32 community objections. One commissioner declared a potential conflict of interest so only 2 commissioners were able to vote. After hearing all objections, the community representatives moved a foreshadowed motion to refuse a permit. The commissioners then closed the meeting, formerly opened a council meeting (for about a minute) and approved the application. October 1996 - Community members appealed planning decision to Administrative Appeals Tribunal. November 1996 -Minister for Planning and Local Government Robert McClelland calls appeal in and directs MT to refer this 'major policy issue' to the Governor in Council. February 1997 - Planning panel (Dimity Reed and Margaret Pitt) established to consider submissions. March 1997 - New council elected with five councillors. April 1997 - Three of the five new councillors vote to fight Commissioner's decision to grant a permit. April 1997 - Planning panel (Dimity Reed and Margaret Pitt) conducts hearings at Nillumbik Shire offices. June 1997 -Planning panel rejected Dallas Price Homes proposal as being 'totally inappropriate' for the site and recommends the site be rezoned for 'public purposes'. July 1997 - Dallas Price Homes threatened to sue Council and individual councillors. October 1997 - Report released of an Advisory Committee (Paul Jerome) established by the Minister for Planning and Local Government. Committee considered Dallas Price Homes proposal and an alternative concept plan proposal by Council for a gallery, workshop, offices and cinema community-based development. Advisory Committee recommended Dallas Price Homes proposal be rejected as not satisfying the requirements of the planning scheme and recommended further testing of the financial viability of Council's proposal. December 1997 - Dallas Price Homes withdrew from the contract of sale, just prior to Council announcing a withdrawal from the contract, which expired on 28th November and was not renewed by either side, after previously being extended twice pending a decision by the Minister. Council had to pay developer $58,000 for demolition costs. February 1998 - Dallas Price Homes application rejected by Planning and Local Government Minister. October 1998 - Nillumbik Councillors suspended and an Administrator appointed (until March 1999). The demolition of the former Shire of Eltham offices and proposed sale and development driven by the Commissioners for Nillumbik Shire Council brought the community together in substantial protest at the infrigement of ratepayers democratic say in local government and ciommunity assets combined with protests about inappropraite development of Eltham's Gateway. This issue led to the formation of the Eltham Community Action Group which still operates strongly today (2023) on behalf of the community to ensure appropriate development within the community.895 main road, commissioners, dallas price homes, development application, eltham hub, hungry jacks, nillumbik shire council, re-zoning, shell service station, town planning, eltham gateway, eltham gateway action group, eltham shire offices, shillinglaw cottage, shillinglaw farm, shillinglaw trees, jim connor collection

Nillumbik Commissioners used 'reserve power's to permit a controversial Shell service station and Hungry Jackls restaurant development at the former Eltham Shire Office site at 895 Main Road. More than 200 people attended the Council meeting in the public gallery and protested at the decision. 32 personal submissions were made to Council's Planning Special Committee meeting whose members vioted 3-2 against the development. The Committee consisted of the three Nillumbik Commissioners and three community members (Jim Connor, Bronwyn South and Janet Mattiske). Chief Commissioner Don Cordell, a former Shell employee excused himself from voting and the three communbity memebrs voted against the submission. The other two commissioners, Vin Heffernan and Kevin Abbott voted against it. They then immediately closed the meeting and opened a Council meeting lasting just seconds to use special reserve powers to overturn the decision. The demolition of the former Shire of Eltham offices and proposed sale and development driven by the Commissioners for Nillumbik Shire Council brought the community together in substantial protest at the infrigement of ratepayers democratic say in local government and ciommunity assets combined with protests about inappropraite development of Eltham's Gateway. This issue led to the formation of the Eltham Community Action Group which still operates strongly today (2023) on behalf of the community to ensure appropriate development within the community.895 main road, commissioners, dallas price homes, development application, eltham hub, hungry jacks, nillumbik shire council, re-zoning, shell service station, town planning, eltham gateway, eltham gateway action group, eltham shire offices, shillinglaw farm, shillinglaw trees, jim connor collection, dallas howgate, frank burgoyne, robert marshall, nillumbik planning special committee, jim connor, bronwyn south, janet mattiske, don cordell, vin heffernan, kevin abbott

Nillumbik Commissioners used 'reserve power's to permit a controversial Shell service station and Hungry Jackls restaurant development at the former Eltham Shire Office site at 895 Main Road. More than 200 people attended the Council meeting in the public gallery and protested at the decision. 32 personal submissions were made to Council's Planning Special Committee meeting whose members vioted 3-2 against the development. The Committee consisted of the three Nillumbik Commissioners and three community members (Jim Connor, Bronwyn South and Janet Mattiske). Chief Commissioner Don Cordell, a former Shell employee excused himself from voting and the three communbity memebrs voted against the submission. The other two commissioners, Vin Heffernan and Kevin Abbott voted against it. They then immediately closed the meeting and opened a Council meeting lasting just seconds to use special reserve powers to overturn the decision. The demolition of the former Shire of Eltham offices and proposed sale and development driven by the Commissioners for Nillumbik Shire Council brought the community together in substantial protest at the infrigement of ratepayers democratic say in local government and ciommunity assets combined with protests about inappropraite development of Eltham's Gateway. This issue led to the formation of the Eltham Community Action Group which still operates strongly today (2023) on behalf of the community to ensure appropriate development within the community.895 main road, commissioners, dallas price homes, development application, eltham hub, hungry jacks, nillumbik shire council, re-zoning, shell service station, town planning, eltham gateway, eltham gateway action group, eltham shire offices, shillinglaw farm, shillinglaw trees, jim connor collection, dallas howgate, nillumbik planning special committee, jim connor, bronwyn south, janet mattiske, don cordell, vin heffernan, kevin abbott

Nillumbik Commissioners used 'reserve power's to permit a controversial Shell service station and Hungry Jackls restaurant development at the former Eltham Shire Office site at 895 Main Road. More than 200 people attended the Council meeting in the public gallery and protested at the decision. 32 personal submissions were made to Council's Planning Special Committee meeting whose members vioted 3-2 against the development. The Committee consisted of the three Nillumbik Commissioners and three community members (Jim Connor, Bronwyn South and Janet Mattiske). Chief Commissioner Don Cordell, a former Shell employee excused himself from voting and the three communbity memebrs voted against the submission. The other two commissioners, Vin Heffernan and Kevin Abbott voted against it. They then immediately closed the meeting and opened a Council meeting lasting just seconds to use special reserve powers to overturn the decision. Community residents who made submissions included Russell Yeomans speaking on behalf of the Eltham Gateway Action Group and Eltham District Historical Society, Des Ryan on belaf of Eltham Senior Citizens, Angela Newhouse, others on behalf of Our Lady Help of Christians Primary School and Judge Book Village, Tom Munro, Ian Jennings, Margartet Ball a fifth generation descendant of the Shillinglaw family, one of the early settlers of the area and owner of the land that was sold to Council, Frank Burgoyne who said "there will be a lot of creaking and rumbling in the cemetery if this goes through. So many old people who have done so much for Eltham are buried up there and it is up to us to pass on what they left to the younger generation. Eltham is a beautiful spot; why louse it up?" A second article "Anger over reserve power" by Laeta Antonysen provides commentary from the three Planning Special Committee community members, former Eltham Shire Councillor Jim Connor, Bronwyn South and Janet Mattiske about the process that took place and the first time use of the spoecial reserve power to overturn the decision of the committee. Barry Rochford, Nillumbiuk CEO defends the use of the power.The demolition of the former Shire of Eltham offices and proposed sale and development driven by the Commissioners for Nillumbik Shire Council brought the community together in substantial protest at the infrigement of ratepayers democratic say in local government and ciommunity assets combined with protests about inappropraite development of Eltham's Gateway. This issue led to the formation of the Eltham Community Action Group which still operates strongly today (2023) on behalf of the community to ensure appropriate development within the community.895 main road, commissioners, dallas price homes, development application, eltham hub, hungry jacks, nillumbik shire council, re-zoning, shell service station, town planning, eltham gateway, eltham gateway action group, eltham shire offices, shillinglaw farm, shillinglaw trees, jim connor collection, dallas howgate, nillumbik planning special committee, jim connor, bronwyn south, janet mattiske, don cordell, vin heffernan, kevin abbott, russell yeomans, eltham district historical society, eltham senior citizens, des ryan, our lady help of christians primary school, judge book village, angela newhouse, tom munro, ian jennings, margaret ball, shillinglaw cottage, frank burgoyne, andrew biasci, barry rochford

Nillumbik Commissioners used 'reserve power's to permit a controversial Shell service station and Hungry Jack's restaurant development at the former Eltham Shire Office site at 895 Main Road. More than 200 people attended the Council meeting in the public gallery and protested at the decision. 32 personal submissions were made to Council's Planning Special Committee meeting whose members vioted 3-2 against the development. The Committee consisted of the three Nillumbik Commissioners and three community members (Jim Connor, Bronwyn South and Janet Mattiske). Chief Commissioner Don Cordell, a former Shell employee excused himself from voting and the three communbity memebrs voted against the submission. The other two commissioners, Vin Heffernan and Kevin Abbott voted against it. They then immediately closed the meeting and opened a Council meeting lasting just seconds to use special reserve powers to overturn the decision. Subsequent to this the Commissioner run Council held a special meeting on Wednesday, October 23, 1996 where Commissioners Kevin Abbott and Vin Heffernan thanked all three community members of the Planning Special Committee and advised that their powers had been revoked. The article includes a joint statement from all three sacked members in which they state they have been able to bring a community perspective to the planning applications placed befopre the committee which has resulted in modifications to planning decisions. The members stated that "unfortunately, despite our best efforts to express considered apolitical opinions, it appears the Commissioners believe that any dissenting comment is politically motivated, and should therefore be disregarded." "We feel sad that this situation exists even though we have done everything possible tio represent the views of our community, whilst maintaining the integrity of the planning process."The demolition of the former Shire of Eltham offices and proposed sale and development driven by the Commissioners for Nillumbik Shire Council brought the community together in substantial protest at the infrigement of ratepayers democratic say in local government and ciommunity assets combined with protests about inappropraite development of Eltham's Gateway. This issue led to the formation of the Eltham Community Action Group which still operates strongly today (2023) on behalf of the community to ensure appropriate development within the community.895 main road, commissioners, dallas price homes, development application, eltham hub, hungry jacks, nillumbik shire council, re-zoning, shell service station, town planning, eltham gateway, eltham gateway action group, eltham shire offices, shillinglaw farm, jim connor collection, dallas howgate, nillumbik planning special committee, jim connor, bronwyn south, janet mattiske, don cordell, vin heffernan, kevin abbott

Nillumbik Commissioners used 'reserve power's to permit a controversial Shell service station and Hungry Jack's restaurant development at the former Eltham Shire Office site at 895 Main Road. More than 200 people attended the Council meeting in the public gallery and protested at the decision. 32 personal submissions were made to Council's Planning Special Committee meeting whose members vioted 3-2 against the development. The Committee consisted of the three Nillumbik Commissioners and three community members (Jim Connor, Bronwyn South and Janet Mattiske). Chief Commissioner Don Cordell, a former Shell employee excused himself from voting and the three communbity memebrs voted against the submission. The other two commissioners, Vin Heffernan and Kevin Abbott voted against it. They then immediately closed the meeting and opened a Council meeting lasting just seconds to use special reserve powers to overturn the decision. Subsequent to this the Commissioner run Council held a special meeting on Wednesday, October 23, 1996 where Commissioners Kevin Abbott and Vin Heffernan thanked all three community members of the Planning Special Committee and advised that their powers had been revoked. The article includes a joint statement from all three sacked members in which they state they have been able to bring a community perspective to the planning applications placed befopre the committee which has resulted in modifications to planning decisions. The members stated that "unfortunately, despite our best efforts to express considered apolitical opinions, it appears the Commissioners believe that any dissenting comment is politically motivated, and should therefore be disregarded." "We feel sad that this situation exists even though we have done everything possible tio represent the views of our community, whilst maintaining the integrity of the planning process."The demolition of the former Shire of Eltham offices and proposed sale and development driven by the Commissioners for Nillumbik Shire Council brought the community together in substantial protest at the infrigement of ratepayers democratic say in local government and ciommunity assets combined with protests about inappropraite development of Eltham's Gateway. This issue led to the formation of the Eltham Community Action Group which still operates strongly today (2023) on behalf of the community to ensure appropriate development within the community.895 main road, commissioners, dallas price homes, development application, eltham hub, hungry jacks, nillumbik shire council, re-zoning, shell service station, town planning, eltham gateway, eltham gateway action group, eltham shire offices, shillinglaw farm, jim connor collection, dallas howgate, nillumbik planning special committee, jim connor, bronwyn south, janet mattiske, don cordell, vin heffernan, kevin abbott

Plenty Township Estate "The rapid growth of Greensborough and the great traffic development on the main road between Heidelberg and Eltham augurs well for Plenty Township Estate. Already a Store, Post Office and State School have been started, and the activities of the Local Progress Association will help the district forward considerably. Within walking distance of the Montmorency and Greensborough stations." Bryn Teg Hill's Estate "Better known as "The Old Sand Hill, "within walking distance of the Montmorency and Greensborough railways stations." "Some few years back Mrs Thomas subdivided portion of the Sand Hill Paddocks, and the areas sold have been settled and many converted into charming outer suburban garden homes with cultivation and orchard plots. The south-eastern slope gives the land a grand outlook over the Yarra Valley on to the Dandenoings, and the are is very picturesque and homely." "A number of the blocks contain large deposits of valuable building sand, which should prove good speculation in view of the forecast for further rapid home development along the Eltham Suburban Electric Service." Sand Hills Road (Old Eltham Road) Date estimated as c.1924 - Electricification of railway line to Eltham referenced on map occured April 1923 and Mrs Mary Thomas died August 1925. Her home Bryn Teg became part of the Heidelberg Golf Club in 1927.The establishment of Lower Plenty as a suburban growth area supported by easy commuting facilitated by the elctrification of the Eltham railway linebonds road, bridge, bryn teg hill's estate, coghill & haughton, eltham road, heidelberg golf club hotel, houses, lower plenty, lower plenty bridge, lower plenty road, main road, plenty hotel, plenty river, plenty township estate, real estate agent, sales brochure, sand hills road, the old sand hill, sand hill paddocks, woodfull road, old eltham road, bryn teg, mrs m thomas

Initially collated by Harry Gilham regarding the history of the cemetery and various developments and artworksarthur munday, cemetery gates, chappel terrace, eltham cemetery, gravedigger, james orford, justus jorgensen, lena cooper skipper, lily agnes jorgensen, mervyn g. skipper, svend erik kroyer-pedersen, vaults

Photo taken by Nathan Islip who at the time was studying Architecture at the University of Melbourne. During his experience year he worked as a builder's labourer on the new Eltham Library construction project. Eltham Library Service 1930s - 1994 Originally collated by Harry Gilham, President, Eltham District Historical Society Inc (1993-2009) (edited 2022) In the Eltham township area, in the early 1930s, library books for adults were available from E J Andrew's newsagency in Main Road. In the newsagency cum haberdashery, some shelves were set aside for a lending library of adults' books. In 1935, Mr & Mrs JC Rains purchased the newsagency and continued the lending service until the late 1940s. At this time the business was extended from haberdashery to sell ladies' and men's clothing. The library section was discontinued. In the 1930s a mobile book library was also run by a Mr Foster of Bible Street, Eltham. In the 1950s adult books were available from racks in the foyer of the Eltham Shire Offices which was then located beside the Eltham Hall on the comer of Arthur Street and Main Road. In the early 1950s a referendum of ratepayers was called to seek public opinion on the issue of raising money for a public library for which the rates would have to be increased - the motion was defeated. On 11 November 1965 Eltham Shire Council, in conjunction with the City of Heidelberg and the Shire of Diamond Valley, met to form the Heidelberg Regional Library Service. Eltham was represented by Councillors Charis Pelling and John Lewis. The first library service for the Shire of Eltham from this group came in the shape of a bookmobile van which had, amongst others, a central stopover near the Shillinglaw trees outside the newly opened Shire offices at 895 Main Road, the original site of Shillinglaw Cottage and the former Shillinglaw farm. Present-day Wingrove Park was another stopover and the many recorded requests for this service can be read as denoting the areas of population or gathering points at that period throughout the Shire. 1968 saw the Shire convert the ‘Brinkkotter’ house in Dudley Street to house both adult and children's books. This library was originally staffed from the City of Heidelberg Library and records of committee meetings range from borrowing Heidelberg's old library shelving to trying to increase the Government's subsidy to a dollar for dollar basis. Book loans in the period 1966-67 totalled 30,400 and the following year ran to 52,113. With 2 books plus 1 paperback the limit per person, it was overcrowded and unable to house the range of other services which had become common library stock. Planning to extend the Shire Offices by the addition of the south wing was an opportunity to re-house the Shire's Library. The opening of the library in the extension was carried out on 17th August 1971 by the Hon R J Hamer ED, MP, Chief Secretary of Victoria. Cr Geoffrey Dreverman officiated as the Shire President. The Heidelberg Regional Library Service continued until September 1985 when it disbanded. On 21 November 1985 the Yarra Plenty Regional Library Service was established. At that time Eltham was represented by Councillors Mary Grant and Robert Manuell. By 1987, over-crowding of the Eltham Library and an inability to house the range of other services yet again rose to prominence. At a Council meeting held on 1 June 1987, the Councillors supported a resolution which threatened to close the library on 30 September 1987. Council's frustration arose from yet another re-run of the annual State Government versus Council Library funding and records show first arose in Eltham Council in 1967 with the Government of 1he day. After prolonged public anger and petitions the motion to close the library was rescinded in August 1987. Council, considering the community's concern, set up a ‘Library Review Working Party’ which a year later became the Library Occasional Committee with direct access to Council. This Committee investigated the workings of the 386 square metre library and found inadequate space for storage and display, lack of equipment, out-of-date furniture together with an increasing patronage which resulted in queues of borrowers becoming longer no matter when the library was open. Community consultation took the form of 1,000 questionnaires sent to users and non-users along with noticeboard reminders of what was planned. Council developed a strategy to set aside capital funds from 1988 on an annual basis so that preliminary planning and consultative expenses could be met, and construction could be completed early 1997. The Committee visited metropolitan libraries which were catering for a similar population as was projected for Eltham. Australia-wide Federal Government funding grants under the Local Capital Works Program became available from October 1992 for community projects endorsed by local Councils. The Eltham Council submitted a proposal, based on library findings and requirements accumulated by the Library Occasional Committee, to the Federal Grants Committee to build a new Eltham Library. The Federal Grants Committee supported the funding request allowing commencement of the library project three years earlier than planned. With finance finalised, the Council set up its Eltham Library Re-development Special Committee which was given the task of overseeing what could be the last major expansion of the Shire's Library Service as Eltham's population nears its projected maximum. The new library was designed by Gregory Burgess and Peter Ryan of Gregory Burgess Pty Ltd. Construction of the library commenced in 1993 and was officially opened May 22nd, 1994. The library building was designed to reflect its parkland setting. External features include: the roof which includes interesting aspects when viewed from Main Road; verandahs which provide ramp access and give a sheltered entrance to the building; walls which feature locally made mudbricks, conventional bricks and copper panels; and space for an outdoor courtyard/reading area which will be developed later. Internally there are several features. The building includes a foyer with a fireplace suitable for displays including artwork, a community multi-purpose room suitable for meetings or functions and an outdoor cafeteria. The ceilings are lined with Victorian Ash. The shapes for the ceiling give a free-flowing form to the building. Brush Box has been used for the circulation and information desks. The tree trunk columns are Grey lronbark from New South Wales. Arches and various-shaped windows add interest to the internal structure. The carpet design reflects the Eltham environment and compliments the natural colours and timbers used in the building. Tiles by artist Felix Bosari feature in the building and additional art by local artists added externally and internally to the building. Since 1994 the library has undergone a major extension to cater for children’s services and others. See also EDHS_02111 construction, eltham library