Certificate reads "Certificate of Appreciation: May it be known that this certificate has been presented to members of the Association for the Blind Arthur Wilkins Day Centre, Essendon by Lions Club of Strathmore-Gladstone Park in appreciation of the invaluable services and cooperation extended." Signed by the President (illegible) and Secretary (illegible) on 30th November 1993. 1 certificate of appreciation from Lions Clubassociation for the blind, lions club

Certificate reads "Certificate of Appreciation: May it be known that this certificate has been presented to The George Vowell Centre by Karingal Lioness Club in appreciation of the invaluable services and cooperation extended." Signed by the President Stephanie Johnson and Secretary Patricia Goodwright on 20th December 1985. 1 certificate of appreciation with black writingassociation for the blind, george vowell centre (mt eliza)

Framed portrait of John Moule who was President of the Vision Australia Foundation, from 1992-1999. It is part of a series of paintings commissioned by the VAF Board to commemorate the work of past presidents of the organisation. Mr Moule is standing with his arm on a dresser, and holds a pair of glasses. He is dressed in a navy blue suit, with a blue kercheif in his breast pocket,, a white collared shirt and a blue, white and black striped tie. On his lapel is a small gold badge. The plaque at the base of the painting reads 'Mr John A. Moule AM / President 1992-1999 / Vision Australia Foundation'. 1 art original in old gold frameThe plaque at the base of the painting reads 'Mr John A. Moule AM / President 1992-1999 / Vision Australia Foundation'.vision australia, john moule

aFramed portrait of William Paterson who was President of the Association for the Advancement of the Blind, from 1948-1952. It is part of a series of paintings commissioned by the VAF Board to commemorate the work of past presidents of the organisation. Mr Paterson is dressed in a 3 piece gray suit, white shirt and wearing a blue tie and black hat. He sits outside a house reading a red coloured book, whilst in the background an elderly man takes a step out on to the gravelled driveway. Two women, one with a white cane, rest on chairs under the verendah of the building. The plaque at the base of the painting reads 'Mr William H. Paterson / President 1948-1952 / Association for Advancement of the Blind'. 1 art original in gold frameThe plaque at the base of the painting reads 'Mr William H. Paterson / President 1948-1952 / Association for Advancement of the Blind'association for the advancement of the blind, william paterson

To commemorate the contribution of Mr MacLennan, this tablet was commissioned and on display in the foyer of the Braille Library in Commercial Road. It consists of a wooden frame, with a copper inset of Scottish thistles (to the left and right) and gum leaves and nuts (above and below) surrounding a sepia photograph of Mr MacLennan. A blue glass plate below the photograph reads "The social, friendly, honest man/ What e'ver he be/ 'Tis he fulfils great / Nature's plan / And none but he. Burns". To the left and right of this are accompanying blue glass plates with interwoven lines. At the base of the tablet is another blue glass plate: "To perpetuate the memory of the late/ William Hector MacLennan/ Who died on Sept. 18th 1929/ He was one of the founders of this Association/ and President of the Social Committee from its inception/ 1894-1929". Brown wooden memorial tablet with inset of copper and photograph victorian association of braille writers, william hector maclennan

Framed portrait of David Robertson who was the first President of the Association for the Advancement of the Blind, from 1895-1899. It is part of a series of paintings commissioned by the VAF Board to commemorate the work of past presidents of the organisation. Mr Robertson sits with his hands resting upon a wooden cane. He is wearing dark spectacles, a gray suit and waistcoat, white shirt with starched collar and pleated front, and a red and blue striped necktie. On his left lapel is a blue and red medal. David Robertson was educated at the Royal Victorian Institute for the Blind and was trained as a basket maker. He was one of eight foundation members of the Association for the Advancement of the Blind (now Vision Australia Foundation ) which was formed in 1895 in order to encourage blind people to manage their own affairs and build their self esteem. He was appointed the inaugural president and served as such from 1895 to 1899 and again in 1913 as well as acting as vice president from 1900 to 1902 and in 1911 and 1915. Known as a level headed and wise peacemaker he was elected chairman of the first interstate conference of blind people, which took place in Melbourne in 1913. From this evolved the Federal Council of Organizations of the Blind, which undertook to consider all matters affecting blind people. 1 art original in gold frameThe plaque at the base of the painting reads 'David Robertson / Inaugural President of / Association for Advancement of the Blind'.david robertson, association for the advancement of the blind

Framed portrait of Thomas Marks who was President of the Association for the Advancement of the Blind 1900, 1935-1937. It is part of a series of paintings commissioned by the VAF Board to commemorate the work of past presidents of the organisation. Mr Marks sits at a table, wearing black tails and pants, a white pleated dinner shirt and black evening dress bow-tie. One hand rests next to a cup and saucer, the other rests on his lap. Tom Marks was educated at the Royal Victorian Institute for the Blind. He was a founding member of the Association for the Advancement of the Blind (now Vision Australia) at its establishment in 1895. He went on to serve as President of organisation in 1900 and was later appointed as a part time paid secretary – an office he occupied from 1904 to 1927. He again served as President from 1935 to 1937 during which time he celebrated his 80th birthday. As the living conditions of many blind people were deplorable at this time – they were often confined to a room or shed without any social contacts – it was realized that support for blind persons was needed to serve as a refuge for the oppressed, a home for the indigent, a rest home for the sick and a convalescent home to provide both respite care and permanent accommodation. Mr Marks had a reputiation of having good contacts and being able to use people with more knowledge than himself. An able musician, Tom Marks was often employed in the homes of wealthy families. As a result he met Mr and Mrs Grimwade who were already supporters of Vision Australia. They organized a gymkhana to raise money for the nucleus of a building fund. From this time Tom Marks was involved in the finances of the centres at Brighton, Ballarat and Bendigo, which were the ultimate result of the fund. He was also part of a team that negotiated the financial agreement between the RVIB and Vision Australia over fund raising and the allocation of money, which lasted from 1930 to 1939. 1 art original in gold frameThe plaque at the base of the painting reads 'Mr Thomas Marks / President 1900, 1935-1937/ Association for Advancement of the Blind'. association for the advancement of the blind, thomas marks

Framed portrait of Bruce Small who was President of the Association for the Blind 1955-1964. It is part of a series of paintings commissioned by the VAF Board to commemorate the work of past presidents of the organisation. Mr Small stands in his Gold Coast mayoral robes, which consist of a dark blue velvet with ermine trim and a white ruffled shirt.. He wears a mayoral chain of office around his neck and glasses, with his hands clasped in front of him. Sir Bruce Small joined the Vision Australia’s General committee in 1944 and became President of the organisation in 1955. He developed an efficient team with Sir Hubert Opperman (for many years the world’s number one cyclist), whom he brought in as Vice President and Mr. Pat Lightfoot, himself president for many years. Sir Bruce had to leave school at an early age after the death of his father in order to support his family. The lessons he learned from this episode in his life created a man of quick wit, with a razor sharp mind and the skills of a gambler - attributes that enabled him to achieve his goal of “aiming for the stars”. This was put into effect when he proposed a plan for 3 new Vision Australia nursing homes in 5 years at Ballarat, Bendigo and Brighton at a cost, which at that time seemed impossible but which was finally achieved between 1957 and 1959, through astute financial management. Sir Bruce also supported the concept of organisational decentralization and made amendments to the constitution, which enabled the associated branches of the Vision Australia (then the Association for the Advancement of the Blind) to form local committees. This was in order to generate local interest in the blind people in the community and engage them in fund raising and running of the nursing homes. Although he resigned in 1964 when he moved to Queensland he still retained an interest in Vision Australia. Sir Bruce had always pushed for a symbol for Vision Australia which would be recognized by the public and serve a useful purpose. This took the form of a beacon which was erected at Brighton, overlooking the sea, having a twofold purpose – a reference point and guiding light for small craft, and symbolically for blind people a guiding light to direct them to a safe harbour. Sir Bruce switched on the guiding light at in 1969 having already donated the cost of $3000. Prior to joining Vision Australia, Sir Bruce had operated the Malvern Star bicycle business in Glenferrie Rd. He promoted and expanded the business making Malvern Star the industry leader in Australia. This was aided by his friendship with Sir Hubert Oppermen, who promoted Malvern Star bikes through his role as world’s number one cyclist. In 1967 he became Mayor of the Gold Coast and, in 1972 he was elected to the Queensland Parliament representing the seat of Surfers Paradise. 1 art original in gold frameThe plaque at the base of the painting reads 'Mr Bruce Small / President 1955 - 1964 / Association for the Blind'.association for the blind, bruce small

Framed portrait of George Maxwell who was President of the Association for the Advancement of the Blind 1920-1935. It is part of a series of paintings commissioned by the AFB Board to commemorate the work of past presidents of the organisation. Mr Maxwell is turned slightly away from the viewer, and wears a blue suit, white high collared shirt and a blue tie. George Maxwell was President of Vision Australia from 1920 to 1935. After an early teaching career he studied law, was admitted to the Bar and became one of Victoria’s great criminal lawyers and later a Federal Member of Parliament. He took an interest the welfare of blind people from his student days. A detached retina in 1920 led to total blindness nine years later, which gave him a great empathy for those with a similar affliction. Through his contacts he was also instrumental in obtaining the first voting rights for blind Australians. Up until 1902 blind people were unable to vote if they couldn’t write with a pen. George Maxwell was working at that time at the legal firm of Strongman and Crouch one of the partners, Mr. Crouch, was elected as a member of Parliament. When the Commonwealth Electoral Bill was being drafted, Mr. Crouch has a clause added enabling blind people to vote in Federal elections, constituting a world first. But perhaps his greatest achievement was obtaining the pension for legally blind people. Until 1910 only those who met the age and means test criteria were eligible. With the help of his legal and political friends a bill was passed which granted the pension to all persons over 16 years of age who were unable to work due to physical disability or blindness. Until this time these people had to be supported by their families or go to a benevolent institution. This was a world first and gave to blind and vision impaired people a measure of independence which increased both their self reliance and self esteem. 1 art original in gold/brown frameThe plaque at the base of the painting reads 'Honourable George A Maxwell Q.C. / President 1920-1935 / Association for Advancement of the Blind'.association for the advancement of the blind, george maxwell

Framed portrait of Malcolm Daubney who was President of Vision Australia Foundation 1999-2002. It is part of a series of paintings commissioned by the AFB/VAF Board to commemorate the work of past presidents of the organisation. Mr Daubney wears a navy suit, pale blue shirt and navy blue Kiwi tie. Mr Malcolm Daubney has worked closely with blind and vision impaired people for many years. In the 1980s Mr Daubney was “volunteered” by John Wicking to the Vision Australia’s Kooyong Committee. Shortly after his appointment he was posted to Singapore for business, where he served on the committee of the Singapore Association for the Blind for five years. Upon his return he rejoined the Kooyong Branch Committee. Later he was appointed to the Vision Australia Board of which he was President from 1999 to 2002, and then Chief Executive Officer from 2002-2005.1 art original in old gold frameThe plaque at the base of the painting reads 'Mr Malcolm Daubney / President 1999-2002 / Vision Australia Foundation'.vision australia, malcolm daubney

Framed portrait of John Wicking who was President of the Association for the Blind 1973-1984 as well as a generous benefactor. It is part of a series of paintings commissioned by the AFB Board to commemorate the work of past presidents of the organisation. Mr Wicking wears a navy suit, white shirt and navy blue Kiwi tie. John Wicking served as President of Vision Australia from 1973 to 1984 and as Vice President in 1990. He was Managing Director and Chairman of Kiwi International when he was introduced to the Committee in 1971. With a natural air of authority, he was known to be both strong and wise. One of the first hurdles Mr Wicking faced following his election as President in 1973 was understanding the health service system and sorting out the differing views of committee members over recommendations for projects costing hundreds of thousands of dollars with no funds to implement them. The ten years of his Presidency were a time of exceptional growth and expansion. He was instrumental in acquiring an adjacent property to those already owned in Glenferrie Road in 1974 at a cost of $120,000, on which the Low Vision Clinic was erected – the first of its type in Australia. Land was also bought in both the metropolitan and country areas for future expansion. Day care centres were opened in Ballarat and Bendigo and new metropolitan services commenced. Mr Wicking formed a committee to explore the possibility of a radio station people unable to read standard print. As a result 3RPH commenced broadcasting in 1981. Mr Wicking was also involved in the incorporation of Vision Australia under the Companies Act in 1990. After his retirement as President Mr. Wicking continued as a committee member until 1994. In 1995 he was instrumental in the establishment of the Tilly Aston Heritage Collection, on which he served as Chairman until sadly passing away in 2002. 1 art original in old gold frameThe plaque at the base of the painting reads 'Mr John O. Wicking AM / President 1973-1984 / Association for the Blind'. association for the blind, vision australia, john wicking

Framed portrait of Diana J. Jones who the first female president of the Association for the Blind since Tilly Aston. It is part of a series of paintings commissioned by the AFB Board to commemorate the work of past presidents of the organisation. Mrs Jones sits facing the painter with both hands clasped in her lap. She is wearing a black double breasted blazer, white shirt, blue beaded necklace and earrings and a gold bracelet . A white kerchief sits in her breast pocket. Diana Jones served for 8 years on the General Committee before being elected President. During this time she was deputy chairman of the Reach Out Appeal to raise funds for the building program and President of the Honorary Services Group which co-ordinated volunteers and gave them a spokesperson on the General Committee. In her 8 years as President a great deal was accomplished. New centres were opened or extended throughout Victoria and the Metropolitan area, volunteer services expanded and the Vision Resource Centre at Kooyong was built into which 3RPH radio was relocated. A Vision Information hotline, audiology services and the National Centre for Ageing and Sensory Loss were established, the Braille and Talking Book libraries was incorporated into the Association and the Charlie Bradley Cricket Pavilion opened at Kooyong. In 1990 Diana Jones became a member of the first Board of Directors of the newly incorporated Association for the Blind Ltd which ushered in a new era, requiring strict observance of financial and accounting methods in order to ensure continued Government funding. Mrs Jones was highly regarded by clients, volunteers and staff as a capable hard-working leader. Her services to the Association and over many years to the wider community, were recognised in her appointment as a Member of the Order of Australia in the 1993 Queen's Birthday Honours. She passed away in July 2009.1 art original in gold frame The plaque at the base of the painting reads 'Dame Diana J. Jones, AM DSJ / President 1984- 1992 / Association for the Blind'. association for the blind, diana jones

Framed portrait of Tilly Aston who began the Association for the Advancement of the Blind, a forerunner to the Association for the Blind. It is part of a series of paintings commissioned by the AFB Board to commemorate the work of past presidents of the organisation. Tilly sits with one hand resting against a table, and the other in her lap. She is wearing a black collared dress with a white lace neck ruff held with an opal pin. Two medals (the Jubilee medal and Coronation medal) are pinned to the chest, each consisting of a red and white bowtie with a brass medallion. Tilly Aston was born in Carisbrook, Victoria, in 1873. When she was very young her parents noticed she was having problems with her vision. They took her to a doctor who diagnosed her with no sight in her right eye and the prognosis of loss of vision in the left eye. As a result of this she was totally blind by the age of 7. Despite this her parents endeavoured to give Tilly as many of life’s advantages that their limited means could supply. From an early age she was taught singing, music, poetry, arithmetic, encouraged to read and observe the natural world around her and be independent. At the age of 8 she was sent to the Asylum and School for the Blind (later called the Royal Victorian Institute for the Blind). She excelled in a wide range of subjects and matriculated in 1889. With the help of a public fund was able to attend Melbourne University, being the first blind Australian to do so. Unfortunately the lack of Braille text books made it impossible for Tilly to continue her studies and she left in second year. Tilly was determined that other blind people would not have the same negative experience she had had. In 1894 she organised a meeting to form the Victorian Association of Braille Writers with the aim of producing and supplying Braille to blind Victorians. Braille was produced by trained volunteers with ? recruited in the first six month. Other rights and services for blind people remained very limited. In 1895 Tilly organised a meeting, which formed the Association for the Advancement of the Blind (now Vision Australia). The Association was instrumental in obtaining many benefits for blind people including a blind pension, voting rights and transport concessions. It also established the first nursing homes for blind people, at a time when many blind people were homeless and destitute. Tilly went on to be Australia’s first blind teacher. She was also a very talented musician, author of seven books and was very gifted at arts and crafts. She knew Esperanto and corresponded with people all around the world including Helen Keller. Tilly passed away on November 1st 1947. Her legacy continues through the work Vision Australia which provides services for thousands of blind Australians. A memorial bell dedicated to her is also situated in the King Domain Gardens. 1 art original in gold frameThe plaque at the base of the painting reads 'Miss Matilda (Tilly) A. Aston / President 1904, 1910, 1943 to 1947/ Association for Advancement of the Blind'. association for the advancement of the blind, association for the blind, tilly aston

The Geelong RVIB Auxiliary was formed on February 13, 1933 by Mr Birtchnell. This collection of papers includes the minute books from 1944 until 1998. It was noted in correspondence that Geelong and surrounds had been the most outstanding financial contributor to RVIB's revenue. Collections from the Geelong community had provided high donations every year. The Geelong Auxiliary posted 301 pounds on their first return in 1934, easily topping any of the other 200 auxiliaries in the state at that time. The Annual Report from July 31, 1995 noted that with regret due to health reasons and the passing of many members The Geelong RVIB Auxiliary had no option but to go into recess. The certificate reads: Centenary Certificate of Appreciation presented to Geelong Auxiliary for outstanding service. Royal Victorian Institute for the Blind babies, children and adults. (Signed by) President (Charles Bennett) Executive Director (F.G. Turley).5 minute books -- 2 accounts books -- 1 book of newspaper clippings --various loose papers and letters -- 1 certificate of appreciation Certificate: white paper with light turquoise thick border and gold and blue thin borders. The RVIB official seal is at the base of the right hand side and a coloured image of the RVIB logo, with the words 'Centenary year 100 1866/1966' in the bottom left corner.royal victorian institute for the blind, auxiliaries

Annual report of the Braille & Talking Book Library including Minutes of the AGM, Board of Director's Report, President's report and financial statements. Items also included are: Miss Alice McClelland was invited to read the Honour Roll in recognition on her 51 years and 7 months of service with the library, appointment of Joan Simmonds as Chief Librarian, retirement of Ivan Molloy, Mrs Hearn, Peter Sumner and Heather Bedson, the first Braille Book of the Year presented to Keith Dunstan as decided by the literary panel of Barrett Reid, Stephen Murray Smith and Lloyd O'Neill, the revival of the Annual Fair, and the work of the Sixty-Niners, Benalla, Reservoir and Altona auxiliaries.1 volume with text and illustrationsbraille and talking book library, annual reports

Annual report of the Braille & Talking Book Library including Minutes of the AGM, Board of Director's Report, President's report and financial statements. Items also included are: embedding the new philosophy 'that all may read', VIP Tours began with tour of library and lunch at 'Onions' restaurant afterwards, increased loans but also a 5 month waiting list for new borrowers, Children's Christmas Party conducted, Barrett Reid, Joyce Nicholson and Dr Stephen Murray-Smith continue to be the literary panel for Braille Book of the Year, Annual Garden Party at Benalla, 63rd work anniversary of Alice McClelland, computerisation of card catalogue has received funds and should be completed by early 1986, and have the added benefit of eliminating wait times for new borrowers, resignation of Clare Lovegrove and Beverley Johnson and appointment of Seija Makinen and Alana McCann, first joint commission of braille books from RIDBC by Library and 8 state organisations, and purchase of an electric conveyor belt to help load the Australia Post truck with the daily 30 bags of mail received and the same outgoing.1 volume of text and illustrationsbraille and talking book library, annual report

Annual report of the Braille & Talking Book Library including Minutes of the AGM, Board of Director's Report, President's report and financial statements. Items also included are: naming the computer which will store the book catalogue for the library 'Tilly', RVIB declared a public library and Minister for the Arts has determined for services to rationalise with the Chairman and Vice-Chairman meeting their counterparts with meetings ongoing, first time borrowers asked to nominate their choice of winning title for Braille Book of the Year, with the literary panel of Stephen Murray-Smith, Joyce Nicholson and Barrett Reid making a short list from which borrowers voted, first time presentation held in the afternoon (with increased attendence) and inaugural Narrator's Award (The Bathurst in honour of former President Hector Bathurst) to Eirene Pappas, Hector Bathurst to receive OAM, Jan Smark Nilsson appointed to National Advisory Committee on Library Services to People with Disabilities and Australia Post approval to change cassette mailing pouches.1 volume of text and illustrationsbraille and talking book library, annual report

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

Invitation card reads as follows: The President John Moule and Board of the Association For The Blind have pleasure in inviting Mr & Mrs N Maxwell to the 100th Annual General Meeting to be held at the Camberwell Centre 340 Camberwell Road Camberwell on Friday 20th September 1996 at 11.00am Book launch of No Sight - Great Vision 100 year history of the Association for the Blind Guest Speaker: Rt Hon Sir Zelman Cowan former Governor-General of Australia Facing the Future Lunch 12.30pmInvitation card for Mr and Mrs Maxwell to 100th Annual General Meetingnon-fictionelizabeth maxwell, neil maxwell, association for the blind

Articles in annual report include: a short history of the AFB, President's Report, report on Ballarat, Bendigo and Brighton Homes, financial information, the work of the Welfare Service division, opening of two flatlets for aged blind at Ballarat, resignation of Celeste Baird as choirmaster after 17 years and A Williams stepping into the role, need for a better clubhouse which has been little changed since it was built over 30 years ago, students from Ballarat Teachers college read to home residents, publication of 'Courage' magazine to keep everyone up to date on Association events, and a profile on Russian migrant Alex Momot and how the AFB assisted him settle into Australia.1 printed volume with black and white illustrationsassociation for the blind, kelaston home (ballarat), elanora home (brighton), mirridong home (bendigo), alex momot, rosalie tyers, e irvine, l adamson, mrs r clarke, matron e mcleod, a sharry, matron rosewall, mrs s mcenroe, celeste baird, e goulding, mrs a bulluss, mrs a n roach, mrs m macdowell, mrs t carson, mrs j stanley smith, pam barker, mrs l thomas, mrs a mansfield, mrs l rogerson, elsie henderson, mrs murphy, mrs w christian, h h mackenzie, sister b agar, annual reports

Harriet Cecilia Hordern Williams (1889 - 1968) was the grand-daughter of William Hordern (1830 - 1881) and Cecelia Monger (1830 - 1914). William Hordern was the sixth of seven children of Anthony Hordern Snr. who established the Anthony Hordern & Sons department store in Sydney which operated from 1923 to 1970. Harriet's mother Cecilia (1854 - 1934) was married to Christopher Williams. Harriet's uncle William was appointed commissioner of the Supreme Court of South Australia in 1903. Her cousin Doris Amelia Hordern (1889 - 1970), as Doris Blackburn won the Federal seat of Bourke in 1946 following the death of her husband who had previously held the seat. This branch of the Hordern family has a strong connection to Hawthorn through their home "Stramshall" in Auburn Road Hawthorn and also with the Auburn Baptist Church. Harriet Williams enlisted in the Australian Army Nurse in December 1916 and served as a Staff Nurse until her marriage in London in 1919. This certificate is significant to the history of Hawthorn and Australia through its connection with the Hordern family, the home Stramshall in Hawthorn and with the Auburn Baptist Church. It is significant to the history of the Royal Children's Hospital Melbourne as an example of early 20th century training protocol, in the persons who signed the certificate and the photographs of the hospital buildings of that time. Leather bound certificate of two pages hinged together as a book. Gold lettering embossed on the front. Gold ornamental border embossed on front and back. Inside a personalised presentation certificate on one page. Second page has photographs of the Melbourne Children's Hospital circa 1916.Certificate Reads: Childrens Hospital/ Training School For Nurses/ Melbourne October 5th 1916 This is to certify that Harriet Cecilia Hordern Williams has attended the prescribed course of Three Years Teaching at the Training School for Nurses in connection with the Childrens Hospital and has passed the examinations necessary for registration as a TRAINED NURSE. Signed by: Lalla Williams - Signature of Nurse M. J Turnbull, President Cora C. Oakden , Honorary Secretary Examiners: F. Hobill Cole M.D. A. Jeffreys Wood M.D. E. Alan Mackay M.B.B.S. Douglas Stephenson M.D.M.S. A. E. Rowden White M.D. Stuart W. Ferguson M.D. Captions on the photographs read: Convalescent Home Brighton Nurses Home Children's Hospital Princess May Pavilion Red Cross with banner beneath reading BY LABOR MUST THE PRIZE BE WON Printed on certificate: Sands & McDougall Limited Melb.childrens hospital, certificate, nurse, hordern, williams, hawthorn, harriet williams, lalla williams, rowden white, cora oakden, hobill cole, jeffreys wood, mary jane turnbull, alan mackay, douglas stephenson, stuart ferguson, brighton convalescent home, princess may pavilion

This Certificate was presented to Trained nurse, known as 'Nurse' in those days, Nettie Osborne on completion of six months employment with Melbourne District Nursing Society (MDNS). This is the only example of a MDNS Nurses certificate in the RDNS collection. In 1913 the MDNS Nurses had their board and residence, uniforms, bicycles and laundry expenses provided. Newly employed Nurses were 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. .Following the founding of the Melbourne District Nursing Society (MDNS) in February 1885 to care for the sick poor in Melbourne, subsequent meetings were held to form a Committee and to draw up a Code of Rules of the Society. It was decided that only nurses who had attended a Hospital Nurses Training School and were fully qualified would be employed by the Society. After interviewing several candidates, it was on the first of May 1885 when the first Trained nurse, known as 'Nurse' in those days, Mrs. Ferguson, was employed by MDNS with a salary of £100 per annum. She was employed for three months initially, but this was soon extended, "on the understanding she will make arrangements to live in the more immediate vicinity of her district". A Doctor agreed to assist the Nurse with advice at any time. In rotation, a member of the Superintendence Sub-Committee supervised the Nurse’s visits and could assist to alleviate some poor social conditions they found. A second Nurse, Mrs. Joanna Cannon was employed by MDNS six months later, with a trial period of six months which was extended. They were the stalwarts of the Society in the early years, Nurse Cannon remaining with the Society for four years and Nurse Ferguson for five years, though both had a short break due to illness through the heaviness of the work. Nurses salaries were reduced to account for the cost of uniforms, and then when establishments were rented by the Society and the Nurses could now live in the Nurses Home. The Nurses 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 liaised with Doctors and provided high quality trained nursing care; educated their patients in the curing and prevention of disease; teaching the importance of cleanliness, fresh air 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, soap and small towel. They supplied equipment on loan, such as earthenware hot water bottles, splints, urinals, bed pans, bed cradles, feeding mugs, and air-cushions as well as providing blankets and clean bed linen, and nightdresses as necessary. They provided 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. As the work increased a third Nurse was employed but this was arduous work, particularly in the heat of summer and many nurses only remained with the Society for several months. A Trained Midwife was employed in August 1893. The work was arduous, 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; straw hats were worn in summer. Over the years the Nurses complained that 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. Public transport was also used over the years, in conjunction with a Motor Auxiliary from 1929 to 1971. MDNS began with its own small fleet of vehicles in the early 1950s which gradually expanded into a full fleet.The coloured Certificate is made of white paper attached to a buff card forming a boarder. It is in gold print on the white background which has a thin gold border. In large bold script are the words "Melbourne District Nursing Society" In between the words "District" and "Nursing" is a red Maltese cross which extends above and below the writing. Underneath this, in smaller capital letters, are the words "For Nursing Sick Poor In Their Own Homes"/. Below this in bold script are the words "This is to Certify that"/. Under this, written in black handwriting, is "Nurse Nettie Osborne"/; below this in script is "has acted in the capacity of District Nurse", then in black handwriting the words "Six Months"/. The next two lines read "having fulfilled her Duties to the satisfaction of her Committee, /"and appreciation of her Patients". The Certificate is signed in black by Mary Leeper, Vice President; Kate Hood; Hon. Treasurer; C.M. Tatham Hon. Secretary, and has Date; 8th July 1913 in black handwriting. On paper attached with tape to the back of the Certificate, is a copy of a photograph of two unidentified people. [Possibly Nettie and her husband]. Some small marks, and in one area a small area of cracking is seen on the white background of the certificate.certificates, mdns, melbourne district nursing society, rdns, royal district nursing service, nurse nettie osborne

The Tarnagulla and District Cricket Association existed for quite a few years in the 1890 -1920 period, and consisted of 6 to 8 clubs drawn from a radius of about 15 km. Tarnagulla Club finished on top of the ladder in the 1910/1911 season, and the club then won the grand final against Llanelly in April 1911. The trophy was presented to Edward Toole at the Club's annual presentation evening in December 1911. Mr Toole was the publican at the Golden Age Hotel at Tarnagulla for many years, and he was also a long-­time president and strong supporter of the Tarnagulla Cricket Club. Mr Toole was unwell at that time, and the club's supporters decided to present it to him in recognition of his many years of service. N. Butcher resided at Llanelly and was a very keen local cricket lover. He donated this trophy for the 1910/11 season. The hallmark 'SD&Co' probably indicates the cup was made by Stewart Dawson & Co. which had Australian operations in Melbourne, Perth, Sydney and Brisbane. David Gordon Collection. A large plated-silver cup with engraved decorations and inscription.Etched with flourishes and flower and leaf designs around text which reads "T.D.C.A Trophy, Presented by Mr. N. Butcher, Won By Tarnagulla Club, Presented by them to their President, E. Toole Esq., Decr 11th". Hallmarks: SD&Co , EPNS , 33209 , J

A file copy of a letter from Mrs Vasey of the War Widows Guild to Legatee Radford who was Vice President of Melbourne Legacy at the time. She says 'It was most heartening to read how staunchly you supported our idea that a man who dies in the service of his country should not leave his children to poverty and sub-standard living. Thank you very much indeed for speaking for us publicly in the unequivocal way you did." The War Widows Guild was founded by Mrs J M Vasey, the wife of Major-General Vasey. During the second world war she became secretary of the AIF Women's Association, a body which sought to help soldiers' wives. Her work with this body drew her attention to the plight of war widows. After Major-General George Alan Vasey died in an aircraft accident on 5 March 1945 she became a widow herself. At the end of the war Mrs Vasey founded the War Widows Guild. The Victorian War Widows Guild closed in 2021. Some items, including this letter, were donated to the Legacy archive for preservation - it shows a close bond between the two organisations. It was possible for a widow to be members of both Legacy and the War Widows Guild. Both organisations helped war widows in various ways.A record of a close link between Legacy and the War Widows Guild.Yellow carbon copy of a letter from Mrs Vasey to Vice President Radford in 1956.war widows guild, wwg, radford

A foundation day speech in 2002 by Past President, Legatee George Woodward. Instead of looking at the history of Legacy from a timeline perspective he chose to look at old Bulletin articles and comment on aspects of what he read. He mentions they provided a sense of belonging, of fun, sadness, enthusiasm, and activity. It gave him a different view of the founding legatees, other than as ageing old men, they were young men full of energy and enthusiasm. There were notices of marriages and children, leave taken for honeymoons etc. 'I received a terrific sense of family in reading through these early Bulletins'.A speech given at a Legacy function to commemorate the day on which Legacy was founded that has information about the early years of Legacy.White A4 paper x 5 pages with black print of 2002 speech by George Woodwardfoundation day, george woodward

The diary written by Legatee George Blackwood which gives an account of the life of a Melbourne Legacy President in 1975, the people he meets, the places he goes and some humour. The forward was written by Legatee Ravenscroft who was president in 1983. The first few pages deal with the history of Legacy. Then there are the speeches that were spoken at the handover dinner when Legatee Blackwood was the outgoing president and Legatee Baker was incoming. The speeches had interesting facts and insights into the characters of some of the legatees. Subsequent pages included the day to day events that the President experienced under the title of President's Musings and Meanderings.There is much valuable information in this diary for all to read. As such the diary was passed on to succeeding presidents as a guide.Blue cardboard cover with white paper pages.On the first page there is a note to the diary and the signature of Legatee Len E. Ravenscroft, Melbourne Legacy President 1983.past presidents, len ravenscroft, speeches, george blackwood, history

Two documents that show that in 2003 Melbourne Legacy decided to sell two of its properties, 22 Selwood St, Hawthorn East and 9 The Avenue, Windsor. This decision was taken due to rising maintenance costs and that the money raised from the sale of the properties could be used to benefit all 24,000 widows under their care. One document was a statement by President Tony Parkes about the decision and the other a letter from Jellis Craig offering to be involved in the sale. They had read about the decision in the Leader newspaper. No time frame had been set and all residents of these two properties would be consulted by Legacy personnel with a family member present. Also photocopies of the two land titles for the properties.This shows the commitment of Melbourne Legacy to ensure that residents individual circumstances, accomodation, needs preferences and location were considered in the move, and cause as little disruption to the residents as possible.Cream A4 paper, plus brochure from real estate agent, Jellis Craig,Stamped 'Received 09 JAN 2003 Melbourne Legacy' in blue ink, top left hand corner. Top centre Jellis Craig letter head. Letter signed Peter Batrouney and Micheal Armstrong (Jellis Craig).widows, properties, titles

The printed funeral service for Lt Colonel Donovan Joynt held on 12 May 1986 at St Mary's Anglican Church, Glen Eira Road, Caulfield. (Part of a photo album page(Cat.No. 01588) about the life of L/ Donovan Joynt). The Legacy Service was delivered by the President of Melbourne Legacy, Legatee R.N. Wheeler, and Legatee K.D. Green, Chairman of the Legacy Co-ordinating Council delivered an address. Brigadier B. Wade, Commander, 3rd Military District read Psalm 90 (Lord, you have been our dwelling place throughout all generations. Before the mountains were born or you brought forth the whole world, from everlasting to everlasting you are God.). Joynt was buried in Brighton General Cemetery with full military honours. Part of the collection of material held by Melbourne Legacy on Legatee Donovan Joynt, a prominent Australian.Printed pamphlet, black on white, sheets folded and stapled.donovan joynt, funeral

An article from the Bulletin in 1988 about the Legacy Service at Funerals. Also a copy of the Legacy Funeral Service. The facsimile from Legatee Rob Allison was to the incoming president about the funeral service. The Legacy Funeral service that could be offered to then families of Legatees if they wished, often the President would be asked to read the service. The article was part of an album of past presidents from 1965 to 1989. The folder included biographical details and obituaries, eulogies and death notices of prominent Legatees. The items have been catalogued separately.A record of the Legacy Funeral service that could be offered to then families of Legatees if they wished. The information was collected to record the lives of prominent legatees in a folder.Photocopy of 2 pages from Bulletin, plus a facsimile from Legatee R C Allison about Legacy funeral service in 1988.Bulletin VAQ 1209 2.21988 Page No 5.funeral, rob allison