This door plate was found at 28 Spence Street, Warrnambool by the builder Ray Hollingsworth, when he was renovating the building for the Warrnambool Presbyterian Church in June 2019. He realized that the inscription had been placed there by Leslie O'Callaghan, probably when he left the premises in 1942 after boarding there for some years. Leslie O'Callaghan (1918-2014) was born in Balmoral and left there at the age of 13 with a scholarship to study at Warrnambool Technical School. He became an industrial chemist, working at the Kraft Walker Cheese Factory in Allansford (Warrnambool Cheese and Butter Factory). His experimental work in cheese cultures over a 45 year period was regarded as cutting edge work in the Victorian dairying industry. Known as 'Mr History', Leslie O'Callaghan was also an important Warrnambool historian, serving as president of the Warrnambool and District Historical Society for 35 years. In later life Les wrote about his time in 28 Spence Street, noting the lay-out of the early building and other boarders at the time. He never mentioned the interesting memento of his time there that he left on the back of a door plate. The Warrnambool and District Historical Society Archives Centre is called 'Les O'Callaghan History House'This door plate with its inscription was found 77 years after the inscription was written. It is of considerable interest because the writer of the inscription was well-known in Warrnambool as a bacteriologist and an historian. He left his own personal historical message and by sheer chance it was found years later. (All the old door plates at the time of the renovation were thrown out and it was fortunate that the builder happened to see the writing on one of them and to recognize who the writer was.)This is a cream-coloured ceramic door plate. It is rectangular-shaped with curved edges at the top and bottom. It has been painted white and has two holes at the top and bottom for the insertion of screws for a5taching the plate to the door. The inside of the plate has handwriting in black pencilLeslie Alexander O'Callaghan lived here for some years 1939-1942 AD. His occupation was as assistant bacteriologist for Kraft-Walker Cheese Coy. at Allansford. Born at Balmoral, 40 miles NORTH of Hamilton, Victorialeslie o'callaghan warrnambool, kraft walker cheese company allansford, 28 spence street warrnambool

This is a medal won by J. McKenzie of the Warrnambool Fire Brigade at a Camperdown competition in 1899. A Warrnambool Fire Brigade was first established in 1859 but it lapsed and another Fire Brigade was formed in 1863. This Brigade prospered and entered in, and won many Fire Brigade demonstrations and competitions which were particularly popular in the late 19th century and early 20th century. No information has been found on J. McKenzieThis medal is of considerable interest as a memento of the Warrnambool Fire Brigade in 1899 and of its successes in competitions against other Victorian Fire Brigades.This circular silver coloured light metal medal features an eight petal shaped centrepiece inserted into an outer circle with text on both obverse and reverse. It has a small attached ring at the top. Obverse -CAMPERDOWN 24/5/99 ENGINE3 MEN WON BY J MC KENZIE Reverse W.F.B. Maker's markj. mckenzie, warrnambool fire brigade, warrnambool history

This book belonged to Robert Giles. He obtained it in 1914 and the bookseller was Mrs Tilly Rowan who was a well-known businesswoman in Warrnambool with a book shop and newsagency in the Oddfellows Hall in Koroit Street. Robert Giles (1895-1967) was born in Wangoom and went to the Wangoom State School and the Warrnambool Agricultural High School. He served in World War One and worked at the State Savings Bank in Warrnambool from 1911 to 1921 (excluding war service). He later worked in banks in Koroit, other Victorian country districts and Melbourne and retired to Mailors Flat. He was married to Vera King and they had one child, Joyce Aurelin. A Warrnambool branch of the Savings Bank was opened in Warrnambool in 1859 and it moved into a new building in Timor Street in 1885. (This building in now part of the Archie Graham Senior Citizens’ Centre). The State Savings Bank became the State Bank of Victoria in 1980 and in 1990 was subsumed into the Commonwealth Bank of Australia. This book is retained because it belonged to Robert Giles who lived in the Warrnambool area for part of his life and who worked at the State Savings Bank in Warrnambool early in the 20th century. This is a hard cover book of 408 pages. The cover is red with a gold-coloured image of a horse and a mounted policeman on the front cover and gold printing on the spine. The book has 25 chapters of text. Two labels of the book’s seller are affixed to the front cover and a title page. The cover is much scuffed.‘July 9th 1914 Robert P. Giles State Savings Bank Warrnambool’giles family, warrnambool, state savings bank warrnambool, history of warrnambool

This book, written by Inspector Robert Haldane, details the history of the Police Force in Victoria up to the late 20th century. The history of the Police Force is mirrored in the history of the police presence in Warrnambool since the early days of settlement. One important ex-Warrnambool policemen featured in the book is Thomas O’Callaghan, an Inspector of Police in Warrnambool in the 1880s and the Chief Commissioner of Police from 1902 to 1913.This item is of interest firstly as a book giving comprehensive details on the history of the Victorian Police Force and secondly as book containing information on police members who were connected with the history of Warrnambool. .1 This is a hard cover book of 372 pages with a blue cover and silver printing on the spine. The dust cover has a white and blue background with a photograph of a 19th century policeman, six colour photographs and one black and white photograph. The printing on the dust cover is in white, blue and black. The book contains six chapters and many sketches, illustrations, photographs and graphs. .2 This is a 1986 newspaper cutting from the Warrnambool Standard featuring an article on the book, The People’s Force. Printed Inscription: ‘To those Police who created history without knowing it.’victorian police force, warrnambool

This shield was awarded in 1909 by the Rifle Clubs of South Western Victoria for a rifle-shooting competition. Rifle Clubs operated in Warrnambool from 1860 and possibly earlier and in 1904 a union of rifle clubs in the Warrnambool district was formed - the South Western District Rifle Clubs' Union. Edward Geary was a member of the Mounted Rifles, G Company in the 1890s and served as a sergeant in the Boer War, 1899-1900. He was commended by the founder and commandant of the Victorian Mounted Rifles, Colonel Tom Price, for his bravery in South Africa rescuing wounded soldiers under heavy fire. After the Boer War Geary continued to serve in the Mounted Rifles local unit (later called Australian Lighthorse). He was also a long-time member of the Warrnambool Rifle Club and won this trophy as a member of a Lighthorse unit. This shield is of interest as an example of the early 20th century trophies awarded by the Warrnambool district Rifle Clubs. Gun Clubs and Rifle Clubs have been existing in the Warrnambool district since the 1860s. This is a small wooden shield, lightly polished on the front surface. It has silver-coloured metal plates attached by metal pins to the front of the shield in the form of a scroll, two fern or laurel leaves, printed information and a crown with two crossed rifles. At the back is a metal clip to enable the shield to stand up. 'The Warrnambool Citizens Challenge Shield for Competition by Teams, 1909, of Rifle Clubs in the S.W. District of Victoria won by No.1 Sq. XI, A.L.H. Handicap 65, Total Score 579, Arm. Sgt. E. Geary 88'warrnambool rifle club, edward geary, south western district rifle clubs union, warrnambool history

This button has come from an item of clothing made by George Wardrop, a well-known Victorian tailor who was apprenticed to a Mr J. Jones in Smith Street Collingwood in the late 19th century. George Wardrop was a partner in the Jones firm for seven years before opening his own tailoring business in Collingwood and later in Northcote. The business expanded, with a major store in Melbourne established in the 1930s, (Wardrops, My Tailor) and other stores opening in suburban and regional areas in Victoria. The business lasted until the early 1970s. This button is of interest as it was found in a Warrnambool garden and perhaps came from an item of clothing owned by a local resident and purchased from a Wardrop tailoring shop early in the 20th century.This is a round buff-coloured button with an eyelet and printing around the button edge. The item is slightly bent and discoloured.‘G. Wardrop Collingwood’wardrop, tailor

These are badges or pieces of insignia that would have been worn on the collar or cap of members of the Victorian Volunteer Corps. This organization was formed in Victoria in 1867 with the object of fostering in young men leadership, discipline, loyalty and initiative through training programs and community service. The Victorian Volunteer Corps was established in Warrnambool in 1868 and units were initially based at the Warrnambool State School and the Warrnambool Grammar School. Later groups were formed in other schools and competed against each other in rifle shooting competitions, marching and parade skills etc. The Warrnambool groups were trained and assisted by members of the local adult Volunteer Corps. Today cadet groups are sponsored by the Australian Army and there is revived interest in Warrnambool in school cadet groups. These insignia items have no known local provenance but are of historical interest as mementoes of the Volunteer Cadet Corps that operated in Warrnambool from the late 1860s through to the early 20th century. .1 This is a bronze-coloured metal badge with gold lettering, a crown on top, a cross with stars in the middle section and laurel leaves around the outer edges. The two clips at the back are for attachment of the badge to a collar or cap. .2 as above except that this badge has been damaged and somewhat flattened. Volunteer Cadet Corps Victoria Pro Deo et Patria volunteer cadet corps,, history of warrnambool

These riding pants belonged to Captain Charles Rogers of the Australian Army (Light Horse unit). He was part of the mounted Guard of Honour during the visit of the Duke of Gloucester in 1934 when, during the Victorian centenary celebrations, the Melbourne Shrine of Remembrance was opened. Charles Rogers was well-known in Warrnambool in the 1930s, 40s and 50s as a horseman and Army member. He was often seen on horseback leading parades and celebrations in the city and was a long-serving Warrnambool Agricultural Show official as a judge of equine events. He died in 1961. The drapery and clothing store of Cramond and Dickson was founded in Warrnambool by John Cramond and James Dickson in 1855 and was a prominent business in Warrnambool until its closure in 1973. A branch of the store was opened in London in the late 1860s and was managed for some years by James Dickson. These riding pants are of interest because they belonged to Captain Charles Rogers, a Victorian Light Horse Regiment member and a well-known horseman in Warrnambool. The item is also important because it came from the well-known Warrnambool store, Cramond & DicksonThese are khaki riding pants. The knees are reinforced with extra stitching and the back of the waist has two buttons on a raised section and four buttons on the waist itself for the attachment of braces. The front opening has five buttons and the garment has two deep side pockets. The top of the garment is lined inside with brown material. On the left leg is a machine-made patch to cover a worn section. Cramond & Dickson Warrnambool & London C. Rogers charles rogers, cramond & dickson stores, history of warrnambool, jodhpur, victorian light horse regiment

The drawing shows all the activity and building roles involved in building a bridge in 1877. The crossing of the Murray River was very important to citizens living in both Echua, but especially those living in Moama and in further NSW regions as it provided them with access to Victorian market regions. The bridge was built privately for Deniliquin farmers, but eventually opened up to the general public.This is significant because it represents the roles of different tradesmen in the construction industry in the late 19th Century. It also shows construction stages . Bridge pylons are being inserted into the fiver banks. It is also a very well produced drawing, the artist is anonymous, but very skilled.A photograph of a drawing of the construction of the bridge crossing the Murray River in 1877. The picture shows surveyors, construction workers, crane operators, hoists and a crane and much activity.Written on the back in pen are the numbers 6530. In pencil are the numbers 61/8"? and 10"?. Stamped on the back is a small rectangle with the words 'COPYRIGHT. This photograph may not be reproduced without permission in writing from the Editot of "The Age" 250 Spencer Street Melbourne, and 39/41 York St., Sydney.' written inside it.bridge works, murray river crossing, moama, echuca, orm cook collection, 'the age' newspaper., deniliquin farmers, engineering, bridge building, pylons, 1877

.1 These are 35 photocopied pages of an exercise book. The cover is green with black writing. The pages contain handwritten material and mathematical exercises and maps. .2 These are 17 photocopied pages of a exercise book. The cover is brown with a mottled pattern. The pages contain handwritten material, mathematical exercises and maps. fictionschool exercise bookschool exercise books, panmure state school, vickers family of panmure

This is a school badge, probably attached to a school cap. The Warrnambool Academy was a private school for boys operating from 1900 to 1911. It was established by Richard Lawson in partnership with William Oakley, firstly in the Methodist Sunday School Hall in Koroit Street and then in ‘Upton’ in Canterbury Road. It was called the Warrnambool College Academy after 1903 following the purchase of Walter Murdoch’s private school, Warrnambool College. The Lawson/Oakley school was a successful one with a former pupil, Philip Le Couteur, becoming the Victorian Rhodes Scholar in 1908. William Oakley later joined the State Technical School system and became Principal of Wonthaggi Technical School. Richard Lawson became a teacher at Warrnambool High School and later a lecturer in education at Melbourne University and then Professor of Education at the University of Otago in Dunedin, New Zealand. The badge may have belonged to a member of the Baulch family as a ‘Mr Baulch’ is listed as the donor 48 years ago.This badge is of considerable interest as a memento of one of Warrnambool’s important private schools early in the 20th century.This is a bronze-coloured badge in the shape of a shield with lettering around the edge and with a scroll with lettering at the bottom of the shield. Inside the shield are initials. Warrnambool College Academy WCA Labore Et Fide warrnambool college academy, richard lawson, william oakley

View looking north along present day Hohnes Road in Eltham Lower Park towards the intersection of Old Eltham Road and Main Road. Picnickers have pulled up in their cars and are enjoying a game of cricket being played on the oval. This glass plate negative was used to manufacture postcards (1:1 printing) for commercial sale by the Rose Sterograph Company and its subsidiaries. George Rose founded the Rose Stereograph Company in 1880 and was joined by Herbert (Bert) Cutts in the early 20th Century. The pair formed a lifetime working partnership and strong personal friendship. Assisted by George’s two sons, Herbert George and Walter, and later by Neil Cutts, the Rose Stereograph Company continued its operations for more than 140 years. The company was initially built on stereographs, but as cinema took over and stereographs fell out of fashion, the Rose Stereograph Company developed Australia’s first commercially viable photographic postcard business. Specialising in postcards of iconic historical moments and significant landmarks, The Rose Stereograph Company became a staple of the Australian travel industry.This remarkable collection of glass plate negatives, transparencies, and postcards – arguably Australia’s most significant photography collection outside of public hands – has been passed down through the generations, surviving war, relocation, and the harsh Victorian climate. The historic Rose Stereograph collection is the culmination of George Rose’s dream of capturing and preserving precious moments in time and remains the legacy of the Rose and Cutts families. It is with great sadness that the Cutts family says goodbye to a collection that spans five generations and 140 years. The Cutts family understands that for these historically important pieces to rest with one family is to deny others the pleasure of their custodianship.Glass Plate Negative Size: 9.2 x 13.9 cmPicnic Grounds, Eltham, Valentine Series No. 3195, Copyrighteltham lower park, cricket, cars, buildings, electricity lines, lower plenty, eltham, postcard, travel, picnic ground, rose stereograph company, valentine series postcard, glass plate negative, peter and elizabeth pidgeon collection

Looking east along the unsealed main road heading into Eltham across the concrete bridge over the Diamond Creek circa 1939. The original wooden bridge was destroyed by flood waters in 1924. This glass plate negative was used to manufacture postcards (1:1 printing) for commercial sale by the Rose Sterograph Company and its subsidiaries. George Rose founded the Rose Stereograph Company in 1880 and was joined by Herbert (Bert) Cutts in the early 20th Century. The pair formed a lifetime working partnership and strong personal friendship. Assisted by George’s two sons, Herbert George and Walter, and later by Neil Cutts, the Rose Stereograph Company continued its operations for more than 140 years. The company was initially built on stereographs, but as cinema took over and stereographs fell out of fashion, the Rose Stereograph Company developed Australia’s first commercially viable photographic postcard business. Specialising in postcards of iconic historical moments and significant landmarks, The Rose Stereograph Company became a staple of the Australian travel industry.This remarkable collection of glass plate negatives, transparencies, and postcards – arguably Australia’s most significant photography collection outside of public hands – has been passed down through the generations, surviving war, relocation, and the harsh Victorian climate. The historic Rose Stereograph collection is the culmination of George Rose’s dream of capturing and preserving precious moments in time and remains the legacy of the Rose and Cutts families. It is with great sadness that the Cutts family says goodbye to a collection that spans five generations and 140 years. The Cutts family understands that for these historically important pieces to rest with one family is to deny others the pleasure of their custodianship.Glass Plate Negative Size: 9 x 14 cmApproach to Eltham, Valentine Series No. 3197, Copyrightbuildings, electricity lines, eltham, postcard, travel, rose stereograph company, valentine series postcard, main road bridge, glass plate negative, main road, peter and elizabeth pidgeon collection, diamond creek (creek), eltham south, rose stereograph

Looking west across the Main Road Bridge over the Diamond Creek at Eltham, c.1939. The car in the foreground, possibly the photographer's, is a Ford Model C Ten built by Ford UK between 1934 and 1937. The Model C was released in Australia in 1935. The Ford Model C Ten is a car that was built by Ford UK between 1934 and 1937. The Model C was released in Australia in 1935 https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ford_Model_C_Ten This glass plate negative was used to manufacture postcards (1:1 printing) for commercial sale by the Rose Sterograph Company and its subsidiaries. George Rose founded the Rose Stereograph Company in 1880 and was joined by Herbert (Bert) Cutts in the early 20th Century. The pair formed a lifetime working partnership and strong personal friendship. Assisted by George’s two sons, Herbert George and Walter, and later by Neil Cutts, the Rose Stereograph Company continued its operations for more than 140 years. The company was initially built on stereographs, but as cinema took over and stereographs fell out of fashion, the Rose Stereograph Company developed Australia’s first commercially viable photographic postcard business. Specialising in postcards of iconic historical moments and significant landmarks, The Rose Stereograph Company became a staple of the Australian travel industry.This remarkable collection of glass plate negatives, transparencies, and postcards – arguably Australia’s most significant photography collection outside of public hands – has been passed down through the generations, surviving war, relocation, and the harsh Victorian climate. The historic Rose Stereograph collection is the culmination of George Rose’s dream of capturing and preserving precious moments in time and remains the legacy of the Rose and Cutts families. It is with great sadness that the Cutts family says goodbye to a collection that spans five generations and 140 years. The Cutts family understands that for these historically important pieces to rest with one family is to deny others the pleasure of their custodianship.Glass Plate Negative Size: 9 x 13.9 cmThe Bridge, Eltham, Valentine Series No. 3196, Copyrightpeter and elizabeth pidgeon collection, bridge, cars, diamond creek (creek), eltham, eltham south, ford model c ten, glass plate negative, main road, main road bridge, motor vehicles, postcard, rose stereograph, rose stereograph company, valentine series postcard

View looking west towards the Eltham High School circa 1939 from what is now the present day oval on Bell Street. The school was officially opened in October 1928 at which point there were no trees or shrubs in front. This glass plate negative was used to manufacture postcards (1:1 printing) for commercial sale by the Rose Sterograph Company and its subsidiaries. George Rose founded the Rose Stereograph Company in 1880 and was joined by Herbert (Bert) Cutts in the early 20th Century. The pair formed a lifetime working partnership and strong personal friendship. Assisted by George’s two sons, Herbert George and Walter, and later by Neil Cutts, the Rose Stereograph Company continued its operations for more than 140 years. The company was initially built on stereographs, but as cinema took over and stereographs fell out of fashion, the Rose Stereograph Company developed Australia’s first commercially viable photographic postcard business. Specialising in postcards of iconic historical moments and significant landmarks, The Rose Stereograph Company became a staple of the Australian travel industry.This remarkable collection of glass plate negatives, transparencies, and postcards – arguably Australia’s most significant photography collection outside of public hands – has been passed down through the generations, surviving war, relocation, and the harsh Victorian climate. The historic Rose Stereograph collection is the culmination of George Rose’s dream of capturing and preserving precious moments in time and remains the legacy of the Rose and Cutts families. It is with great sadness that the Cutts family says goodbye to a collection that spans five generations and 140 years. The Cutts family understands that for these historically important pieces to rest with one family is to deny others the pleasure of their custodianship.Glass Plate Negative Size: 9.1 x 13.9 cmEltham Higher Elementary School, Valentine Series No. 3194, Copyrighteltham, postcard, travel, rose stereograph company, valentine series postcard, glass plate negative, eltham high school, eltham higher elementary school, peter and elizabeth pidgeon collection

Eltham swimming pool was opened in December 1936. It was located adjacent to Central Park. The small children's pool in the foreground was opened in November 1938. This glass plate negative was used to manufacture postcards (1:1 printing) for commercial sale by the Rose Sterograph Company and its subsidiaries. George Rose founded the Rose Stereograph Company in 1880 and was joined by Herbert (Bert) Cutts in the early 20th Century. The pair formed a lifetime working partnership and strong personal friendship. Assisted by George’s two sons, Herbert George and Walter, and later by Neil Cutts, the Rose Stereograph Company continued its operations for more than 140 years. The company was initially built on stereographs, but as cinema took over and stereographs fell out of fashion, the Rose Stereograph Company developed Australia’s first commercially viable photographic postcard business. Specialising in postcards of iconic historical moments and significant landmarks, The Rose Stereograph Company became a staple of the Australian travel industry.This remarkable collection of glass plate negatives, transparencies, and postcards – arguably Australia’s most significant photography collection outside of public hands – has been passed down through the generations, surviving war, relocation, and the harsh Victorian climate. The historic Rose Stereograph collection is the culmination of George Rose’s dream of capturing and preserving precious moments in time and remains the legacy of the Rose and Cutts families. It is with great sadness that the Cutts family says goodbye to a collection that spans five generations and 140 years. The Cutts family understands that for these historically important pieces to rest with one family is to deny others the pleasure of their custodianship.Glass Plate Negative Size: 9 x 13.9 cmSwimming Pool, Eltham, Valentine Series No. 3198, Copyrighteltham, postcard, travel, rose stereograph company, valentine series postcard, glass plate negative, central park, eltham central park, swimming pool, peter and elizabeth pidgeon collection

Shows two bridge crossings over the Diamond Creek in Diamond Street, Eltham. The upper pedestrian crossing provided continual access for foot traffic during times of flood. The railway came to Eltham in 1901, the Eltham Railway Station is visible in the distance as well as a wooden bodied Tait (Red Rattler) First Class train carriage. The Tait train was first introduced in 1910 as a steam locomotive hauled carriage and in 1919 electric motor carriages were introduced however the line to Heidelberg was not electrified till 1921 and to Eltham in April 1923. The Railway General Store on Main Road is visible beyond the station and was built by Luther Haley in 1902. It was the first shop in the present day shopping centre. It was later known as lloyd's stopre (1917-1920) followed by a succession of six other owners until purchased by Eric Staff in 1939. This glass plate negative was used to manufacture postcards (1:1 printing) for commercial sale by the Rose Sterograph Company and its subsidiaries. George Rose founded the Rose Stereograph Company in 1880 and was joined by Herbert (Bert) Cutts in the early 20th Century. The pair formed a lifetime working partnership and strong personal friendship. Assisted by George’s two sons, Herbert George and Walter, and later by Neil Cutts, the Rose Stereograph Company continued its operations for more than 140 years. The company was initially built on stereographs, but as cinema took over and stereographs fell out of fashion, the Rose Stereograph Company developed Australia’s first commercially viable photographic postcard business. Specialising in postcards of iconic historical moments and significant landmarks, The Rose Stereograph Company became a staple of the Australian travel industry.This remarkable collection of glass plate negatives, transparencies, and postcards – arguably Australia’s most significant photography collection outside of public hands – has been passed down through the generations, surviving war, relocation, and the harsh Victorian climate. The historic Rose Stereograph collection is the culmination of George Rose’s dream of capturing and preserving precious moments in time and remains the legacy of the Rose and Cutts families. It is with great sadness that the Cutts family says goodbye to a collection that spans five generations and 140 years. The Cutts family understands that for these historically important pieces to rest with one family is to deny others the pleasure of their custodianship.Glass Plate Negative Size: 9 x 13.9 cmDiamond Creek, Eltham, Vic., The Rose Series P. 4314, Copyrighteltham, postcard, travel, rose stereograph company, glass plate negative, rose series postcard, tait train, eltham railway station, railway store, staffs general store, diamond creek, diamond street bridge, lloyd's general store, railway station, peter and elizabeth pidgeon collection

A woman stands at the end of a log bridge over a creek looking towards the south along the unsealed roadway. The sun illuminates her back. She is wearing a woollen knit beanie with edges rolled up, dark jacket and skirt, full length dark stockings and slip on dark leather shoes with raised heel, typical of the early 1920s. The creek is possibly feeding into the Karingal Yalloc. The direction of the road based on shadows is northwest as is the Eltham Road to Greensborough (present day Sherbourne, Karingal and St Helena roads). The creek is falling to the foreground so from south west to the north east, possibly feeding into the Karingal Yalloc, somewhere near presenet day Ramptons Road Reserve. This glass plate negative was used to manufacture postcards (1:1 printing) for commercial sale by the Rose Sterograph Company and its subsidiaries. George Rose founded the Rose Stereograph Company in 1880 and was joined by Herbert (Bert) Cutts in the early 20th Century. The pair formed a lifetime working partnership and strong personal friendship. Assisted by George’s two sons, Herbert George and Walter, and later by Neil Cutts, the Rose Stereograph Company continued its operations for more than 140 years. The company was initially built on stereographs, but as cinema took over and stereographs fell out of fashion, the Rose Stereograph Company developed Australia’s first commercially viable photographic postcard business. Specialising in postcards of iconic historical moments and significant landmarks, The Rose Stereograph Company became a staple of the Australian travel industry.This remarkable collection of glass plate negatives, transparencies, and postcards – arguably Australia’s most significant photography collection outside of public hands – has been passed down through the generations, surviving war, relocation, and the harsh Victorian climate. The historic Rose Stereograph collection is the culmination of George Rose’s dream of capturing and preserving precious moments in time and remains the legacy of the Rose and Cutts families. It is with great sadness that the Cutts family says goodbye to a collection that spans five generations and 140 years. The Cutts family understands that for these historically important pieces to rest with one family is to deny others the pleasure of their custodianship.Glass Plate Negative Size: 9.2 x 13.8 cmLog Bridge, Eltham Road, Greensborougheltham, postcard, travel, rose stereograph company, glass plate negative, creek, eltham road, greensborough, karingal road, karingal yallock, log bridge, sherbourne road, st helena road, women's fashion, rampton's road reserve, peter and elizabeth pidgeon collection

A boy of about ten years of age sits on the end of a fallen tree, which is resting in a natural pool in bushland. He is holding a stick gazing into the pool waters. He appears to be dressed in a schoolboy's uniform with close fitting short peaked cap, dark scarf or long sleeved jumper with polo neck and what appears to be a logo on the left breast, the ends of the sleeves turned over, dark shorts and dark long socks with ankle height lace up leather boots. The pool is located on the Eltham Road to Greensborough (present day Sherbourne, Karingal and St Helena roads) and is possibly part of the Karingal Yalloc somewhere near present day Ramptons Road Reserve. This glass plate negative was used to manufacture postcards (1:1 printing) for commercial sale by the Rose Sterograph Company and its subsidiaries. George Rose founded the Rose Stereograph Company in 1880 and was joined by Herbert (Bert) Cutts in the early 20th Century. The pair formed a lifetime working partnership and strong personal friendship. Assisted by George’s two sons, Herbert George and Walter, and later by Neil Cutts, the Rose Stereograph Company continued its operations for more than 140 years. The company was initially built on stereographs, but as cinema took over and stereographs fell out of fashion, the Rose Stereograph Company developed Australia’s first commercially viable photographic postcard business. Specialising in postcards of iconic historical moments and significant landmarks, The Rose Stereograph Company became a staple of the Australian travel industry.This remarkable collection of glass plate negatives, transparencies, and postcards – arguably Australia’s most significant photography collection outside of public hands – has been passed down through the generations, surviving war, relocation, and the harsh Victorian climate. The historic Rose Stereograph collection is the culmination of George Rose’s dream of capturing and preserving precious moments in time and remains the legacy of the Rose and Cutts families. It is with great sadness that the Cutts family says goodbye to a collection that spans five generations and 140 years. The Cutts family understands that for these historically important pieces to rest with one family is to deny others the pleasure of their custodianship.Glass Plate Negative Size: 9 x 14 cmA Pool, Eltham Road, Greensborougheltham, postcard, travel, rose stereograph company, glass plate negative, eltham road, greensborough, karingal road, karingal yallock, sherbourne road, st helena road, rampton's road reserve, schoolboy, peter and elizabeth pidgeon collection

View of St Katherine's Church from the Memorial Gate which were dedicated Saturday, September 12, 1936 "In Memory of The Pioneers". A prominent gravestone for the Mapleton and Ellis families visible to the far left of the path. This glass plate negative was used to manufacture postcards (1:1 printing) for commercial sale by the Rose Sterograph Company and its subsidiaries. George Rose founded the Rose Stereograph Company in 1880 and was joined by Herbert (Bert) Cutts in the early 20th Century. The pair formed a lifetime working partnership and strong personal friendship. Assisted by George’s two sons, Herbert George and Walter, and later by Neil Cutts, the Rose Stereograph Company continued its operations for more than 140 years. The company was initially built on stereographs, but as cinema took over and stereographs fell out of fashion, the Rose Stereograph Company developed Australia’s first commercially viable photographic postcard business. Specialising in postcards of iconic historical moments and significant landmarks, The Rose Stereograph Company became a staple of the Australian travel industry.This remarkable collection of glass plate negatives, transparencies, and postcards – arguably Australia’s most significant photography collection outside of public hands – has been passed down through the generations, surviving war, relocation, and the harsh Victorian climate. The historic Rose Stereograph collection is the culmination of George Rose’s dream of capturing and preserving precious moments in time and remains the legacy of the Rose and Cutts families. It is with great sadness that the Cutts family says goodbye to a collection that spans five generations and 140 years. The Cutts family understands that for these historically important pieces to rest with one family is to deny others the pleasure of their custodianship.Glass Plate Negative Size: 9 x 14 cmSt. Catherine's Church, St Helena, Greensborough, Published by W. M. Butterworth No. 6postcard, travel, rose stereograph company, glass plate negative, greensborough, st helena, w. m. butterworth, st katherine's church, memorial gate, mapleton, ellis, mediterranean cypress, peter and elizabeth pidgeon collection

View of St Katherine's Church from the path inside the Memorial Gate. Also visible several Mediterranean Cypress trees. A prominent gravestone for the Mapleton and Ellis families visible to the far left of the path. This glass plate negative was used to manufacture postcards (1:1 printing) for commercial sale by the Rose Sterograph Company and its subsidiaries. George Rose founded the Rose Stereograph Company in 1880 and was joined by Herbert (Bert) Cutts in the early 20th Century. The pair formed a lifetime working partnership and strong personal friendship. Assisted by George’s two sons, Herbert George and Walter, and later by Neil Cutts, the Rose Stereograph Company continued its operations for more than 140 years. The company was initially built on stereographs, but as cinema took over and stereographs fell out of fashion, the Rose Stereograph Company developed Australia’s first commercially viable photographic postcard business. Specialising in postcards of iconic historical moments and significant landmarks, The Rose Stereograph Company became a staple of the Australian travel industry.This remarkable collection of glass plate negatives, transparencies, and postcards – arguably Australia’s most significant photography collection outside of public hands – has been passed down through the generations, surviving war, relocation, and the harsh Victorian climate. The historic Rose Stereograph collection is the culmination of George Rose’s dream of capturing and preserving precious moments in time and remains the legacy of the Rose and Cutts families. It is with great sadness that the Cutts family says goodbye to a collection that spans five generations and 140 years. The Cutts family understands that for these historically important pieces to rest with one family is to deny others the pleasure of their custodianship.Glass Plate Negative Size: 9.2 x 14 cmSt. Catherine's Church, St Helena, Greensborough, Published by W. M. Butterworth No. 1postcard, travel, rose stereograph company, glass plate negative, greensborough, st helena, w. m. butterworth, st katherine's church, memorial gate, mapleton, ellis, mediterranean cypress, peter and elizabeth pidgeon collection

Believed to be looking east along Eltham Road towards Eltham from around the top of the hill near the present day Andrew Yandell Habitat Reserve. Eltham Road, Greensborough followed what is now St Helena Road from Main Road Greensborough running into Karingal Drive and Sherbourne Road finishing at Bridge Street, Eltham. It was renamed sometime between 1968 and 1970. This glass plate negative was used to manufacture postcards (1:1 printing) for commercial sale by the Rose Sterograph Company and its subsidiaries. George Rose founded the Rose Stereograph Company in 1880 and was joined by Herbert (Bert) Cutts in the early 20th Century. The pair formed a lifetime working partnership and strong personal friendship. Assisted by George’s two sons, Herbert George and Walter, and later by Neil Cutts, the Rose Stereograph Company continued its operations for more than 140 years. The company was initially built on stereographs, but as cinema took over and stereographs fell out of fashion, the Rose Stereograph Company developed Australia’s first commercially viable photographic postcard business. Specialising in postcards of iconic historical moments and significant landmarks, The Rose Stereograph Company became a staple of the Australian travel industry.This remarkable collection of glass plate negatives, transparencies, and postcards – arguably Australia’s most significant photography collection outside of public hands – has been passed down through the generations, surviving war, relocation, and the harsh Victorian climate. The historic Rose Stereograph collection is the culmination of George Rose’s dream of capturing and preserving precious moments in time and remains the legacy of the Rose and Cutts families. It is with great sadness that the Cutts family says goodbye to a collection that spans five generations and 140 years. The Cutts family understands that for these historically important pieces to rest with one family is to deny others the pleasure of their custodianship.Glass Plate Negative Size: 9 x 13.9 cmEltham Road, Greensboroughpostcard, travel, rose stereograph company, glass plate negative, greensborough, cutting, eltham road, karingal drive, st helena road, peter and elizabeth pidgeon collection

View looking northwest along the Plenty River towards the original bluestone Greensborough Bridge (since demolished). A timber pedestrian footbridge added after construction is visible with two people crossing. In the distance is a wide flat verge, now present day Carter Reserve and on the far side seven men digging and a set of terraced steps dug out in the earth bank. Present day Pioneer Reserve is to the right of the river in foreground. This glass plate negative was used to manufacture postcards (1:1 printing) for commercial sale by the Rose Sterograph Company and its subsidiaries. George Rose founded the Rose Stereograph Company in 1880 and was joined by Herbert (Bert) Cutts in the early 20th Century. The pair formed a lifetime working partnership and strong personal friendship. Assisted by George’s two sons, Herbert George and Walter, and later by Neil Cutts, the Rose Stereograph Company continued its operations for more than 140 years. The company was initially built on stereographs, but as cinema took over and stereographs fell out of fashion, the Rose Stereograph Company developed Australia’s first commercially viable photographic postcard business. Specialising in postcards of iconic historical moments and significant landmarks, The Rose Stereograph Company became a staple of the Australian travel industry.This remarkable collection of glass plate negatives, transparencies, and postcards – arguably Australia’s most significant photography collection outside of public hands – has been passed down through the generations, surviving war, relocation, and the harsh Victorian climate. The historic Rose Stereograph collection is the culmination of George Rose’s dream of capturing and preserving precious moments in time and remains the legacy of the Rose and Cutts families. It is with great sadness that the Cutts family says goodbye to a collection that spans five generations and 140 years. The Cutts family understands that for these historically important pieces to rest with one family is to deny others the pleasure of their custodianship.Glass Plate Negative Size: 9 x 14 cmPlenty River, Greensborough, Published by W. M. Butterworh No. 2postcard, travel, rose stereograph company, glass plate negative, greensborough, carter reserve, footbridge, greensborough bridge, main road, plenty river, w. m. butterworth, pioneer reserve, construction, peter and elizabeth pidgeon collection

View looking northeast across the wading pool set into the Plenty River towards the original bluestone Greensborough Bridge (since demolished). A timber pedestrian footbridge added after construction is visible on the far side of the bridge through the arch and beyond to the hillside which is now present day Pioneer Reserve. This glass plate negative was used to manufacture postcards (1:1 printing) for commercial sale by the Rose Sterograph Company and its subsidiaries. George Rose founded the Rose Stereograph Company in 1880 and was joined by Herbert (Bert) Cutts in the early 20th Century. The pair formed a lifetime working partnership and strong personal friendship. Assisted by George’s two sons, Herbert George and Walter, and later by Neil Cutts, the Rose Stereograph Company continued its operations for more than 140 years. The company was initially built on stereographs, but as cinema took over and stereographs fell out of fashion, the Rose Stereograph Company developed Australia’s first commercially viable photographic postcard business. Specialising in postcards of iconic historical moments and significant landmarks, The Rose Stereograph Company became a staple of the Australian travel industry.This remarkable collection of glass plate negatives, transparencies, and postcards – arguably Australia’s most significant photography collection outside of public hands – has been passed down through the generations, surviving war, relocation, and the harsh Victorian climate. The historic Rose Stereograph collection is the culmination of George Rose’s dream of capturing and preserving precious moments in time and remains the legacy of the Rose and Cutts families. It is with great sadness that the Cutts family says goodbye to a collection that spans five generations and 140 years. The Cutts family understands that for these historically important pieces to rest with one family is to deny others the pleasure of their custodianship.Glass Plate Negative Size: 9.1 x 14 cmThe Wading Pool, Greensborough, Published by W. M. Butterworh No. 8postcard, travel, rose stereograph company, glass plate negative, greensborough, footbridge, greensborough bridge, main road, plenty river, w. m. butterworth, pioneer reserve, wading pool, peter and elizabeth pidgeon collection

View looking west across Main Road towards the Greensborough Hotel built 1925 and adjoining shops. A Ford Model Y 4dr Saloon Registration 83-961 is parked in Main Road outside the shops. Visible are Ryan Bros Butchers, State Electricity Commission of Victoria, Dispensing Chemist, Ray Trinham Grocer & Ironmonger Ryan Bros Butchers sold their shop to new owners in December 1938. This glass plate negative was used to manufacture postcards (1:1 printing) for commercial sale by the Rose Sterograph Company and its subsidiaries. George Rose founded the Rose Stereograph Company in 1880 and was joined by Herbert (Bert) Cutts in the early 20th Century. The pair formed a lifetime working partnership and strong personal friendship. Assisted by George’s two sons, Herbert George and Walter, and later by Neil Cutts, the Rose Stereograph Company continued its operations for more than 140 years. The company was initially built on stereographs, but as cinema took over and stereographs fell out of fashion, the Rose Stereograph Company developed Australia’s first commercially viable photographic postcard business. Specialising in postcards of iconic historical moments and significant landmarks, The Rose Stereograph Company became a staple of the Australian travel industry.This remarkable collection of glass plate negatives, transparencies, and postcards – arguably Australia’s most significant photography collection outside of public hands – has been passed down through the generations, surviving war, relocation, and the harsh Victorian climate. The historic Rose Stereograph collection is the culmination of George Rose’s dream of capturing and preserving precious moments in time and remains the legacy of the Rose and Cutts families. It is with great sadness that the Cutts family says goodbye to a collection that spans five generations and 140 years. The Cutts family understands that for these historically important pieces to rest with one family is to deny others the pleasure of their custodianship.Glass Plate Negative Size: 9 x 13.9 cmGreensborough Hotel, Greensborough, Published by W. M. Butterworth No. 5postcard, travel, rose stereograph company, glass plate negative, greensborough, main road, w. m. butterworth, greensborough hotel, ford model y 4 dr saloon, dispensing chemist, grocer and ironmonger, ray trinham, ryan bros butchers, state electricity commission of victoria, peter and elizabeth pidgeon collection

View looking across a treed landscape lawn towards the new 'Heidelberg House' at the Austin Hospital, which was opened in 1939. This glass plate negative was used to manufacture postcards (1:1 printing) for commercial sale by the Rose Sterograph Company and its subsidiaries. George Rose founded the Rose Stereograph Company in 1880 and was joined by Herbert (Bert) Cutts in the early 20th Century. The pair formed a lifetime working partnership and strong personal friendship. Assisted by George’s two sons, Herbert George and Walter, and later by Neil Cutts, the Rose Stereograph Company continued its operations for more than 140 years. The company was initially built on stereographs, but as cinema took over and stereographs fell out of fashion, the Rose Stereograph Company developed Australia’s first commercially viable photographic postcard business. Specialising in postcards of iconic historical moments and significant landmarks, The Rose Stereograph Company became a staple of the Australian travel industry.This remarkable collection of glass plate negatives, transparencies, and postcards – arguably Australia’s most significant photography collection outside of public hands – has been passed down through the generations, surviving war, relocation, and the harsh Victorian climate. The historic Rose Stereograph collection is the culmination of George Rose’s dream of capturing and preserving precious moments in time and remains the legacy of the Rose and Cutts families. It is with great sadness that the Cutts family says goodbye to a collection that spans five generations and 140 years. The Cutts family understands that for these historically important pieces to rest with one family is to deny others the pleasure of their custodianship.Glass Plate Negative Size: 9 x 14 cm"Heidelberg House" Hospital, Velentine Series No. 1117, Copyrightpostcard, travel, rose stereograph company, glass plate negative, ray trinham, austin hospital, heidelberg house, valentine series postcard, heidelberg, peter and elizabeth pidgeon collection

Beatrice Irvine was the daughter of former Victorian Premier Sir William Irvine. From age 13 she lived at ‘Killeavey’ off Laughing Waters Road (later accessed from Reynolds Road). In 1923 she married James Morrison and the couple received Killeavey as a wedding gift. The property supported fruit and vegetable growing as well as an impressive botanical garden. But James died in 1936 after a period of ill health, leaving Beatrice to support their six children. To make matters worse, the house was totally destroyed in the Black Friday bushfires in 1939 but was rebuilt. Beatrice became involved in community issues. In particular, she was an active member of the Eltham Women's Auxiliary, which was formed in 1945 to raise funds for the establishment of an Eltham War Memorial. From the outset, it was decided that this would take the form of a Baby Health Centre, a Pre-School and a Children’s Library, set in a garden of remembrance. Thanks to tireless fund-raising, the project came to fruition in the 1950s when, one by one, the three children's welfare buildings opened in Main Road (having previously been in temporary premises): they are collectively known as the Eltham War Memorial site. Beatrice continued to live at Killeavey and became well regarded as a botanist and naturalist. She died in 1989 and is buried in Eltham Cemetery with her husband and one of their sons. The (rebuilt) house has since been demolished. All that remains is a fragment of the garden. In Fond Memory Of James Hans Morrison Croix de Guerre Born St Peters Pass Oatlands Tasmania 6th June 1880 Died Killeavey Eltham 16th November 1936 And his beloved wife Beatrice Wanliss Morrison (nee) Irvine Born St Kilda Victoria 22nd January 1899 Died 5th November 1989 Who rest here James Hans Irvine Morrison Born Melbourne 11th October 1927 Died Gorora New Guinea 1st October 1971Born Digitaleltham cemetery, gravestones, beatrice wanliss morrison (nee irvine), james hans irvine morrison, james hans morrison, croix de guerre (france)

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

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

Designed by multi-award-winning architect, Gregory Burgess, for which he won the 1995 Royal Australian Institute of architects (Vic.) Merit Award in the New Institutional category. 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_02111jim connor collection, eltham, eltham library, panther place