An item forming part of a collection of costumes, photographs and documents relating to the Weir family who lived in a mansion, originally named Illapa, at 84 Princess Street, Kew, from c.1917 to 1950. This historically significant collection includes items relating to both George Weir (1866-1937), his wife Edith Mary Weir (1867-1948) and their children. George Weir attained national prominence in the mining industry, becoming General Manager of the North Broken Hill Silver Mining Company in 1903 (later renamed North Broken Hill Mining Company 1905-12, and North Broken Hill Ltd 1912-1988), and subsequently President of the Mine Owners Association. He was to remain General Manager of North Broken Hill Ltd until his retirement in 1926.This garment is part of a collection of women’s clothing, owned and worn by Edith Mary Weir (nee Betteridge) - born in Clare, South Australia 1867, died Kew 1948 - and also by her daughter. The garments date from the 1880s to the 1930s. The collection includes day dresses, evening dresses, evening coats, capes, and undergarments. As the wife and daughter of a mine manager, the collection includes representative examples of clothing worn by upper middle class Australian women in domestic circumstances, and at social and civic events. A number of the costumes from the 1920s to the 1930s are of a particularly fine quality, being both rare, representative and intact examples of Australian fashion of the period. The garments in the Weir Collection were donated to the Kew Historical Society by a granddaughter of Edith Weir in 2017.Ornamental cream crocheted bodice of ribbing, flowers and leaves.edith mary weir (nee betteridge), illapa -- 84 princess street -- kew (vic.), women's clothing, weir collection, bodices

An item forming part of a collection of costumes, photographs and documents relating to the Weir family who lived in a mansion, originally named Illapa, at 84 Princess Street, Kew, from c.1917 to 1950. This historically significant collection includes items relating to both George Weir (1866-1937), his wife Edith Mary Weir (1867-1948) and their children. George Weir attained national prominence in the mining industry, becoming General Manager of the North Broken Hill Silver Mining Company in 1903 (later renamed North Broken Hill Mining Company 1905-12, and North Broken Hill Ltd 1912-1988), and subsequently President of the Mine Owners Association. He was to remain General Manager of North Broken Hill Ltd until his retirement in 1926.Edith Mary Weir (nee Betteridge) and her children, photographed by a photographer from the Sykes Studio in Broken Hill, c.1914. The children are (L-R) John Rigby Weir, Cecil Rigby Weir, Horace Rigby Weir, George Rigby Weir, and Edith jnr (Edie) Rigby Weir.Sykes Studio / Broken Hilljohn rigby weir, cecil rigby weir, horace rigby weir, george rigby weir, edith jnr (edie) rigby weir, edith mary weir (nee betteridge), weir collection, sykes studio -- broken hill

An item forming part of a collection of costumes, photographs and documents relating to the Weir family who lived in a mansion, originally named Illapa, at 84 Princess Street, Kew, from c.1917 to 1950. This historically significant collection includes items relating to both George Weir (1866-1937), his wife Edith Mary Weir (1867-1948) and their children. George Weir attained national prominence in the mining industry, becoming General Manager of the North Broken Hill Silver Mining Company in 1903 (later renamed North Broken Hill Mining Company 1905-12, and North Broken Hill Ltd 1912-1988), and subsequently President of the Mine Owners Association. He was to remain General Manager of North Broken Hill Ltd until his retirement in 1926.Studio portrait of George Weir in cabinet card format. The photographer was G. F. Jenkinson of Areas Photo Company of Argyle Street, Broken Hill. An inscription on the rear of the photo identifies the date when the photo was taken: 9 June 1888. This was three years before his marriage to Edith Betteridge."9-6-88 / George Weir"george weir, broken hill, north broken hill mine

An item forming part of a collection of costumes, photographs and documents relating to the Weir family who lived in a mansion, originally named Illapa, at 84 Princess Street, Kew, from c.1917 to 1950. This historically significant collection includes items relating to both George Weir (1866-1937), his wife Edith Mary Weir (1867-1948) and their children. George Weir attained national prominence in the mining industry, becoming General Manager of the North Broken Hill Silver Mining Company in 1903 (later renamed North Broken Hill Mining Company 1905-12, and North Broken Hill Ltd 1912-1988), and subsequently President of the Mine Owners Association. He was to remain General Manager of North Broken Hill Ltd until his retirement in 1926.Annotated copy of original photograph in cabinet card format of George Weir and his wife Edith Mary Weir (nee Betteridge), photographed in Melbourne in transit to Tasmania in November 1891 following their wedding in the same year."Edith Mary Betteridge m George Weir 18 Nov 1891 on way to sail on ketch to Strachan Tas. Photographer: Yeomen Bourke St. Melbourne."edith mary weir (nee betteridge), george weir

An item forming part of a collection of costumes, photographs and documents relating to the Weir family who lived in a mansion, originally named Illapa, at 84 Princess Street, Kew, from c.1917 to 1950. This historically significant collection includes items relating to both George Weir (1866-1937), his wife Edith Mary Weir (1867-1948) and their children. George Weir attained national prominence in the mining industry, becoming General Manager of the North Broken Hill Silver Mining Company in 1903 (later renamed North Broken Hill Mining Company 1905-12, and North Broken Hill Ltd 1912-1988), and subsequently President of the Mine Owners Association. He was to remain General Manager of North Broken Hill Ltd until his retirement in 1926.Sepia-toned photograph of 84 Princess Street, Kew during the occupation of the house by the Weir family during the years 1918-1950. The house and garden had formerly been named Illapa and then Parcnacilla. In 1950 the family sold the house to a religious order who renamed the house 'The Towers'. It now forms part of 'Rylands'.illapa -- 84 princess street -- kew (vic.), george weir, edith mary weir (nee betteridge), weir collection

An item forming part of a collection of costumes, photographs and documents relating to the Weir family who lived in a mansion, originally named Illapa, at 84 Princess Street, Kew, from c.1917 to 1950. This historically significant collection includes items relating to both George Weir (1866-1937), his wife Edith Mary Weir (1867-1948) and their children. George Weir attained national prominence in the mining industry, becoming General Manager of the North Broken Hill Silver Mining Company in 1903 (later renamed North Broken Hill Mining Company 1905-12, and North Broken Hill Ltd 1912-1988), and subsequently President of the Mine Owners Association. He was to remain General Manager of North Broken Hill Ltd until his retirement in 1926.Small black and white photograph of a panoramic view from the tower of 84 Princess Street, Kew during the occupation of the house by the Weir family during the years 1918-1950. The house and garden had formerly been named Illapa and then Parcnacilla. In 1950 the family sold the house to a religious order who renamed the house 'The Towers'. It now forms part of 'Rylands'.illapa -- 84 princess street -- kew (vic.), aerial photographs -- kew (vic.), studley park (kew) -1930s

An item forming part of a collection of costumes, photographs and documents relating to the Weir family who lived in a mansion, originally named Illapa, at 84 Princess Street, Kew, from c.1917 to 1950. This historically significant collection includes items relating to both George Weir (1866-1937), his wife Edith Mary Weir (1867-1948) and their children. George Weir attained national prominence in the mining industry, becoming General Manager of the North Broken Hill Silver Mining Company in 1903 (later renamed North Broken Hill Mining Company 1905-12, and North Broken Hill Ltd 1912-1988), and subsequently President of the Mine Owners Association. He was to remain General Manager of North Broken Hill Ltd until his retirement in 1926.Handwritten register of owners of 84 Princes Street, Kew. Built for John Hedderwick, the house was variously known throughout its history as Illapa and Parcnacilla. The list, compiled for the Weir family before they sold the house in 1950, includes the names of owners between 1890 and 1949.84 princess street -- kew (vic.), george weir

An item forming part of a collection of costumes, photographs and documents relating to the Weir family who lived in a mansion, originally named Illapa, at 84 Princess Street, Kew, from c.1917 to 1950. This historically significant collection includes items relating to both George Weir (1866-1937), his wife Edith Mary Weir (1867-1948) and their children. George Weir attained national prominence in the mining industry, becoming General Manager of the North Broken Hill Silver Mining Company in 1903 (later renamed North Broken Hill Mining Company 1905-12, and North Broken Hill Ltd 1912-1988), and subsequently President of the Mine Owners Association. He was to remain General Manager of North Broken Hill Ltd until his retirement in 1926.This garment is part of a collection of women’s clothing, owned and worn by Edith Mary Weir (nee Betteridge) - born in Clare, South Australia 1867, died Kew 1948 - and also by her daughter. The garments date from the 1880s to the 1930s. The collection includes day dresses, evening dresses, evening coats, capes, and undergarments. As the wife and daughter of a mine manager, the collection includes representative examples of clothing worn by upper middle class Australian women in domestic circumstances, and at social and civic events. A number of the costumes from the 1920s to the 1930s are of a particularly fine quality, being both rare, representative and intact examples of Australian fashion of the period. The garments in the Weir Collection were donated to the Kew Historical Society by a granddaughter of Edith Weir in 2017.Full-length decorative, spotted cream voile pinafore, designed to be worn over a full long dress. The pinafore has ruffled shoulder straps and a band of ruffle above the hem. This is one of two pinafores in the Weir Collection. This example, in contrast to the other pinafore, includes a small bodice.pinafores, women's clothing, edith mary weir, weir collection, aprons, protective wear

An item forming part of a collection of costumes, photographs and documents relating to the Weir family who lived in a mansion, originally named Illapa, at 84 Princess Street, Kew, from c.1917 to 1950. This historically significant collection includes items relating to both George Weir (1866-1937), his wife Edith Mary Weir (1867-1948) and their children. George Weir attained national prominence in the mining industry, becoming General Manager of the North Broken Hill Silver Mining Company in 1903 (later renamed North Broken Hill Mining Company 1905-12, and North Broken Hill Ltd 1912-1988), and subsequently President of the Mine Owners Association. He was to remain General Manager of North Broken Hill Ltd until his retirement in 1926.This garment is part of a collection of women’s clothing, owned and worn by Edith Mary Weir (nee Betteridge) - born in Clare, South Australia 1867, died Kew 1948 - and also by her daughter. The garments date from the 1880s to the 1930s. The collection includes day dresses, evening dresses, evening coats, capes, and undergarments. As the wife and daughter of a mine manager, the collection includes representative examples of clothing worn by upper middle class Australian women in domestic circumstances, and at social and civic events. A number of the costumes from the 1920s to the 1930s are of a particularly fine quality, being both rare, representative and intact examples of Australian fashion of the period. The garments in the Weir Collection were donated to the Kew Historical Society by a granddaughter of Edith Weir in 2017.Full-length decorative, spotted cream voile pinafore, designed to be worn over a full long dress. The pinafore has ruffled shoulder straps. This is one of two pinafores in the Weir Collection. This example, in contrast to the other pinafore, does not include a bodice.pinafores, weir collection, edith mary weir, women's clothing, aprons, protective wear

An item forming part of a collection of costumes, photographs and documents relating to the Weir family who lived in the mansion originally named Illapa, 84 Princess Street, Kew, from c.1917 to 1950. This historically significant collection includes items relating to both George Weir (1866-1937) and his wife Edith Mary Weir (1867-1948). George Weir attained national prominence in the mining industry, becoming General Manager of the North Broken Hill Silver Mining Company in 1903 (later renamed North Broken Hill Mining Company 1905-12, and North Broken Hill Ltd 1912-1988), and subsequently President of the Mine Owners Association. He was to remain General Manager of North Broken Hill Ltd until his retirement in 1926.Important group family photograph, taken in Broken Hill, of the two Weir parents and their children. Another aspect of the photograph is that it is revealing about fashion and the tastes of the period.Studio portrait of George and Edith Weir and their five children, taken by a photographer of the Sykes Studio in Broken Hill, New South Wales. The members of the family are from left to right: Cecil Rigby Weir (1904-1983), Edith Mary Weir (nee Betteridge) (1867-1948), Edith Rigby Weir (1899-1981), John Rigby Weir (1910-1971), George Weir (1866-1937), Horace Rigby Weir (1907-1988), and George Rigby Weir (1901-1927). [John Rigby Weir was the father of the donor]weir collection, george weir, horace rigby weir, george rigby weir, john rigby weir, edith rigby weir, edith mary weir (nee betteridge), sykes studio -- broken hill

An item forming part of a collection of costumes, photographs and documents relating to the Weir family who lived in the mansion originally named Illapa, 84 Princess Street, Kew, from c.1917 to 1950. This historically significant collection includes items relating to both George Weir (1866-1937) and his wife Edith Mary Weir (1867-1948). George Weir attained national prominence in the mining industry, becoming General Manager of the North Broken Hill Silver Mining Company in 1903 (later renamed North Broken Hill Mining Company 1905-12, and North Broken Hill Ltd 1912-1988), and subsequently President of the Mine Owners Association. He was to remain General Manager of North Broken Hill Ltd until his retirement in 1926.Important group family photograph, taken in Broken Hill, of Edith Mary Weir and her children. Another aspect of the photograph is that it is revealing about fashion and the tastes of the period.Studio portrait of Edith Mary Weir and her five children, taken by a photographer of the Sykes Studio in Broken Hill, New South Wales. The members of the family are from left to right: John Rigby Weir (1910-1971), Edith Mary Weir (nee Betteridge), Cecil Rigby Weir (1904-1983), Horace Rigby Weir (1907-1988), George Rigby Weir (1901-1927), and Edith Rigby Weir (1899-1981). [John Rigby Weir was the donor's father].Stykes Studio / Broken Hillweir collection, george weir, horace rigby weir, george rigby weir, john rigby weir, edith rigby weir, edith mary weir (nee betteridge), sykes studio -- broken hill

An item forming part of a collection of costumes, photographs and documents relating to the Weir family who lived in the mansion originally named Illapa, 84 Princess Street, Kew, from c.1917 to 1950. This historically significant collection includes items relating to both George Weir (1866-1937) and his wife Edith Mary Weir (1867-1948). George Weir attained national prominence in the mining industry, becoming General Manager of the North Broken Hill Silver Mining Company in 1903 (later renamed North Broken Hill Mining Company 1905-12, and North Broken Hill Ltd 1912-1988), and subsequently President of the Mine Owners Association. He was to remain General Manager of North Broken Hill Ltd until his retirement in 1926.An early studio portrait of Edith Mary Weir (nee Betteridge) & George Weir c. 18/11/1891. The family story is that the photograph was taken by Yeomen photographers, of Burke St East, Melbourne about the time of their wedding prior to sailing on a ketch to Strachan, Tasmania.Print copy of an oval studio portrait of George Weir and Edith Mary Betteridge. In the portrait, George is seated while Edith stands to his right, holding a cockade fan.weir collection, george weir, horace rigby weir, george rigby weir, john rigby weir, edith rigby weir, edith mary weir (nee betteridge)

The Monument Hill Gold Mine was at the corner of Old Violet Street and Olive Street. It operated until 1947. The shaft was capped, the poppet legs and mullock removed. A house now occupies the site. The Monument Hill Gold mine depth was over 1200 ft. The donor of the photograph is the grandson of Albert Dunstan, and he recalls that 'the mine was fully operational in the 1940's and I was often able to see my Grandfather at work and watched as men stepped into cages to be lowered to their awful occupation'. Donor's great, great grandfather was John Perry Dunstan, a well respected mine manager on the Bendigo goldfield.Two black and white copies of original photograph. Image shows Albert Ernest Dunstan working in the engine room of the Monument Hill Gold Mine, Bendigo. Albert is at the controls of the engine, lowering and raising the mining cage; he is leaning on the support railing around the elevated platform he is standing on. Letter accompanying images describes the donor's family connection to John Perry Dunstan and Albert Ernest Dunstan, he writes that ' the mine was fully operational in the 1940's and I was often able to see my Grandfather at work and watched as men stepped into cages to be lowered to their awful occupation. I was very surprised that today there is a home sitting above what was once a very deep mine'.monument hill gold mine, albert dunstan, old violet street, olive street, engine room, mining cage

In the early 1880s the Ballarat School of Mines Council introduced a three year course of training under the professors to qualify students in the following professions: 1. Mining Engineering 2. Metallurgy 3. Geology 4. Electricity [45] Each of these courses had an additional, but optional, fourth year of study. The prescribed subjects of study for an Associateship was set out in the Calendar of the Ballarat School of Mines in each year. Any student who passed the prescribed examinations in any of the above courses was issued with a Certificate of Competency, and conferred with the distinction of Associate. By the 1890s the professorial staff had drawn up a curriculum leading to an Associateship of the Ballarat School of Mines. The first two years work was to be common to all courses, but in the third and subsequent years the student wold be devoted to a specialised branch of study. The Associateship was to be conferred in one of another of the following Courses: Agriculture, Civil Engineering, Electrical Engineering, [Geology], Metallurgy and Mining Engineering. All were three year courses except for Agriculture which was two years. Each course was conducted in accordance with a prescribed curriculum and syllabus. During the 1910s there was an expectation that candidates for the Associate course should have attained the age of sixteen, and have received preparatory training equivalent to University Matriculation at least in the subjects of Elementary Mathematics, English Grammar and Composition, or have passed through Junior Technical School. In 1960 an new procedure for admission to graduate status as Associates was introduced to the Ballarat School of Mines where Associateship would be conferred at a public ceremony. After 01 July 1976 graduates of Ballarat College of Advanced Education and Ballarat College of Advanced Education were admitted in major studies relating to mining for Australian accreditation and overseas purposes. Ballarat School of Mines Associates could ascribe ASMB after their name.Black and white photograph of Associatedsof the Ballarat School of Mines from 1951-1957.Associates of the Ballarat School of Mines :Lists names 1989-1964ballarat school of mines, smb campus, electrical engineering 1958, brian w. schreenan civil engineering 1958, clifford j. restarick metallurgy 1958, john t h. clelland metallurgy 1958, donald c. stevens mining engineering 1958, john g. wolfe civil engineering 1959, james e. mcneil electrical engineering 1959, patrick h. nally civil engineering 1959, graham j. willey metallurgy 1959, stanley p. kisler civil engineering 1959, donald j. overall electrical engineering 1959, brian j. mclennan civil engineering 1959, philip j. davis art 1959, bruce v. mcdougall mining engineering 1959, lancelot j. matthews mechanical engineering 1959, alan w. wilson mechanical engineering 1959, alan w. wilson electrical engineering 1959, george a r. lewis art 1959, noel e. meagher electrical engineering 1960, john l. collier mining engineering 1960, john l. collier civil engineering 1960, frank andrewartha mechanical engineering 1960, norman leckie art 1960, lansell j. groat civil engineering 1960, boon thiam lu mining engineering 1960, oswyn n. hails civil engineering 1960, john a. watts applied chemistry 1960, thomas b. gallagher civil engineering 1960, brian a. bellingham civil engineering 1961, alan c leviston applied chemistry 1961, walter j wynd civil engineering 1961, francis d benjamin civil engineering 1961, leonard e fox mechanical engineering 1961, yan kai chung applied chemistry 1961, george d mcgrath mechanical engineering 1961, john r sawyer mechanical engineering 1961, ronald horgan applied chemistry 1961, douglas j vendy civil engineering 1961, john a barnes electrical engineering 1961, brian w smith metallurgy 1961, william r carlyon metallurgy 1961, chris p livitsanos metallurgy 1961, lawrence g trevan civil engineering 1961, richard g dunlop mechanical engineering 1961, ronald m ingleton mechanical engineering 1961, peter m robinson mechanical engineering 1961, david j jelbart mechanical engineering 1961, john g hollway mechanical engineering 1961, george m hetherington civil engineering 1961, david w brown mechanical engineering 1961, john r gowan civil engineering 1961, geoffrey a christian civil engineering 1961, arthur c burrow mechanical engineering 1961, john n mcarthur applied chemistry 1961, graeme r bromley mechanical engineering 1961, william davison civil engineering 1961, ben a johnson electrical engineering 1961, ben a johnson civil engineering 1961, allan j tinney civil engineering 1961, thomas h j coad applied chemistry 1961, brian h duthie civil engineering 1961, basil c bautovich mechanical engineering 1961, reece pullen electrical engineering 1961, john d carmichael electrical engineering 1961, william j spencer civil engineering 1961, neil a brogden civil engineering 1961, michael villani civil engineering 1961, ralph j hepburn mechanical engineering 1961, peter w linaker mechanical engineering 1961, peter j matthews mechanical engineering 1961, edgar mca bartrop mining engineering 1961, donald j stewart, brian schreenan

McColl Rankin & Stanistreet, North Virginia Gold Mining Company NL, Mortgage. a/ 960 pounds agreed to be lent by The Honourable John Hogan Minister of Mines for Victoria. Dated: 8/1/1940. Signed J B ?, A Mackay & Stanistreet, also E J Hogan & ? Brown JP. Marked Time of its production 5/6//1940. b/ the sum of 500 pounds agreed to be lent by the Honourable Edmond John Hogan in his capacity as Minister of Mines for the State of Victoria. Frank G Menzies Crown Solicitor. Initials of ?, ? & ? on page one for alteration. Signatures: J Michelson?, A Mackay & Stanistreet also Jen Brown JP & E J Hogan. Dated 14/7/1941. Time of its production for registration 16/7/1941. c/ Letter from Mines Department to McColl Rankin & Stanistreet Re: Discharge of mortgage documents and satisfaction Pieces. Mortgage Documents No. 792210 & 808852.Lease document No. 10859 Bendigo. Bills of Sale. Signed: Ron? R Neal (secretary). Dated: 26/7/1951. (c is attached to d). d/ Discharge Of Mortgage. The Honourable George Colin Moss in his capacity as Minister of Mines discharged North Virginia Gold Mining Company No LB in the said Mortgage. Dated1951. Signed A E ? & George C Moss, 2 copies. e/ Satisfaction Piece. The Honourable George Colin Moss Minister of Mines Victoria of a Bill of Sale dated 18/1/1940 between North Virginia Gold Mining Company NL. Signed George Colin Moss & A E ? 2 copies.organization, business, gold mine, mccoll rankin & stanistreet, north virginia gold mining company nl, mortgage discharge of mortgage satisfaction piece honourable edmond john hogan in his capacity as minister of mines for the state of victoria. frank g menzies crown solicitor.

Black and white photograph. Dilapidated wooden platform with vertical post with wheel at top. Wire attached to bucket and pulled by horse. Two males, one with horse, other emptying bucket. Inscriptions: on back - hand written in ball point pen 'Mining Whip Bendigo', 'A Richardson, 29 Harrison Street, Bendigo', 'Rec'd photo, 21.4.67'.mining, surface equipment, mining whip bendigo, bendigo, mines and mining, mine, mines, miner, male

Black and white photograph. Poppet head, winder house, chimney, overhead tramway, stack of wood, one male figure pushing one truck on overhead tramway. Mine office at front right. Inscriptions: On front - '26' at TL. On back - 'New Red, White and Blue Consolidated, Main Shaft (Big Blue). Rec'd photo 21/4/67.'mine, gold, big blue ( r.w.b.consolidated), bendigo, mines and mining, mines, mining, poppet head, mining equipment

Black + White Photograph. Poppet Head with tubular steel legs, lattice stays and cross bracing. 1 Male pushing one track on overhead trackway from first landing platemans cubby or first landing. Wincher house, wood stack, chimney shed without coverin On back 'A,156' Signature 'R. Stanistreet.' 'Poppet head of a Bendigo Mine'. Stamped Australian Nations Travel Association.mining, surface equipment, surface site, bendigo, mines and mining, mines, mine, poppet head, mining shed

Black and white photograph. Nell Gwynne Reefs; Mine winding engine. Walker and Coy. Dwellings in background. Machinery, winding drums, steel platform, lever, etc. Plant growing up between. Inscriptions: on back - in ballpoint pen 'Nell Gwynne Reef's Mine, winding engine, Walker & Co'.mining, surface equipment, nell gwynne, bendigo, mines and mining, mines, place, gold, surface equipment

Black and white photograph. Poppet head, buildings of Deborah Reef Gold Mine. Inscriptions: on back - hand-written in ink 'Deborah Reef Gold Mines p/l', '20.3.37'. Written on back 'Royal Historical Society, Bendigo Branch'.mine, gold, central deborah gold mine, mines and mining, poppet head, bendigo, mines, mining, landscape

Document: part of report on the ventilation of the Bendigo Mines. 1096 Victoria, Department of Mines, Miners' Phthisis.place, bendigo, historical items, bendigo, miners' phthisis, ventilation, mines, mining, disease

Clear Creek Tin Mine, c.1931mines, mining, tin, tin mining, men, sluicing, clear creek, el dorado, eldorado

Black and white photo: poppet head, chimney, corrugated iron and weatherboard buildings, flumes. On building 'Catherine Reef/Unit..g.. ( partly obscured ) 'Catherine Reef United Claimholders' written on back in ball point pen. '15' A. Richardson, 29 Harrison St., Bendigo. On front top left corner in margin written in ball point pen '15'mine, gold, catherine reef mine, bendigo, mines and mining, mines, poppet head, gold mining, mining

The Chinese Imperial Commissioner, Hwang How Cheng, visited Australia at the request of the Chinese Emperor for the purpose of establishing Chinese consulates in the Commonwealth. He visited Ballarat at the request of Ballarat’s Chinese community. The newspaper reported that it was hoped the Commissioner would visit the Ballarat School of Mines “where the knowledge he would get would probably be of the utmost usefulness in the development of the great resources of China.” The Commissioner was accompanied by interpreter Ah Ket (Melbourne barrister and solicitor), and met by members of Ballarat’s Chinese community, including Dr Wong Chock Son. Apparently the Chinese Commissioner wanted to visit SMB because of its international fame relating to education in mining. From the SMB Letter book (Cat. No. 436) comes the following which suggests the Commissioner was based in Adelaide) '17th November 1906 His Excellency, Hwang How Cheng Chinese Commission Adelaide May it please your Excellency By this post I have the pleasure in forwarding for your Excellency's kind acceptance (and one for Mr. When) copies of the photograph taken of your recent visit to the School of Mines. I trust they will serve a pleasing memento of what, I hope, was a pleasant visit to our Golden City. Yours Faithfully Fredk Martell Director' The visit was reported in the Ballarat Star in 14 November 1906:- The Chinese Imperial Commissioner, Hwang Hon Cheng, who recently arrived in Victoria on behalf of the Chinese Government, paid a visit to Ballarat last evening, and was entertained by his fellow countrymen at a dinner at the Bow Leong rooms, Main street. The commissioner, who came up by the express, was accompanied by his secretary and Mr Ah Ket, the well-known Chinese barrister, of Melbourne; but some disappointment was expressed by the fact that he did not wear his official robes, being attired in the more sombre European dress. Mr W. D. M’Kee presided at the dinner, on the invitation of the Bow Leong Society, and in addition to representative Chinese residents, three were also present the mayor of the city (Cr. J. J. Brokenshire), Crs. R. Pearse, G. Crocker (City), J. R. Elsworth, A. Mackenzie, J. A. M’Neil, A. Levy, G. Bunting, F. Penhalluriack (Town), Col. Williams, Mr. J. Gent, Messrs. F. J. Martell (director of the School of Mines), A. W. Hager (president of the Orphan Asylum), A. Kenny (superintendent), R. G. Fitzgerald (clerk of courts at Ballarat East), J. Trethowan, A. A. Buley, Serg Dalton, and others. Apologies were received from the mayor of the town Revs. J. West Lau, Dr Cairns, Hon. J. Y. M’Donald, L. Lederman, C. C. Shoppee and others. The gathering was a very cordial one, and the hospitality of the Chinese was greatly appreciated. After the loyal toasts, “The King” and “The Emperor of China,” had been honoured, the chairman extended a hearty welcome on behalf of the society and others to the commissioner. Mr M’Kee said he was privileged to speak in behalf of the Chinese. There was a warm feeling of friendship between them and himself, and his services were always at their command. If he were in China he would desire that a similar compliment would be extended to him. They were all pleased the Emperor of China had sent the commissioner to establish consulates in Australia with a view of the empire understanding the feelings of Australasia better than they did at present. He hoped the commissioner would have opportunity of visiting some of their industries, as they desired him to gain all the scientific and practical knowledge of those industries that he could. The toast of “The Commissioner” was proposed by Col. Williams who expressed pleasure at the visit of a gentleman of education and attainments to look into the condition of the scions of China in Australia. He hoped the commissioner would carry away a correct impression. In Australia they had nothing to conceal; they hoped to be understood. (Applause.) No intelligent man had the temerity to condescend to patronise China, one of the richest countries in the world, with a civilisation dating back thousands of years. In the matter of population alone it was equal to one-third of the world. They heard a lot about the “awakening of China.” They hoped it would be humane, just, and considerate if it had power. He hoped the commissioner would be satisfied with what he saw. The law of filial relation to the children was strictly observed in China, and he did not know whether it would not be a good thing if they had a little more of that religion here. It would be a fair thing to tell the commissioner that while he might inquire into the labour laws, the basis of these laws was not a desire to oppress but to enable every man to obtain the same conditions they expected from their own people. If he gained that impression he felt they would be fairly treated. (Applause.) Mayor Brokenshire supported the toast. They had, he said, in the Chinese a most law-abiding people. Their behaviour was an example to the British citizens. They were quiet, inoffensive men, and they toiled hard, even on Sundays. (Laughter.) Mr Ah Ket; That is what the government does with the railway employees. (Laughter.) The Commissioner replied through Mr Ah Ket, who in a graceful speech acknowledged the toast. The commissioner had, he said been delighted with what he had seen of the country – he believed it to be one of the finest in the world – and he greatly appreciated the hospitality extended to him. (Applause.) The Chairman proposed the toast of “The health of Mr Ah Ket,” and paid a tribute to his ability. It was satisfactory to see that he had risen to such a position, and it might be that in the future he would be asked to occupy a position on the bench. (Applause.) Mr Ah Ket, in response, said he had not come prepared to make a speech. He had come to Ballarat to have a quiet evening with his friends, and as soon as he arrived he had been whirled away in a motor car to a place where he found an aggregation of East and West. He was pleased to see them commingled at the festive board. That suggested the idea that East and West could meet together without friction. Misunderstandings arose only because men were superficial. If they threw off outer garments they would know each other better. He looked forward to the time when nations would understand each other. It was by an interchange of visits that such things could be accomplished, and nations would then live at peace with each other. (Applause.) Other toasts were also honored. Twelve men pose for a photograph on the stairs of a building at the Ballarat School of Mines. Back row left to right: A.D. Gilchrist (Prof. of Engineering), B. Whittington (Mathematics, Physics), Thomas S. Hart (Prof. of Geology and Mining), J.M. Sutherland (Electrical Engineering) Front row left to right: Dr Wong Chock Son (Ballarat), Fred. J. Martell, Alfred Mica Smith, Ah Ket esq (Melbourne Barrister), His Excellency Hwang How Cheng (Chinese Commissioner), Wen Esq (Secretary), Alderman Grase (mayor of Brisbane), Grase Esq (Ballarat).ballarat school of mines, alfred mica smith, fred martell, j m sutherland, a d gilchrist, b whittington, thomas hart, wong chock son, ah ket, hwang how cheng, chinese, chinese commissioner, international, new classrooms, administration building, a building

The largest gold mine in the area originated from a find in 1862. The mine was closed January 20, 1915 when a fire destroyed nearly all the above ground plant. Published: Nillumbik Now and Then /​ Marguerite Marshall 2008; photographs Alan King with Marguerite Marshall.; p75 Beneath Mine Hill, as locals call it, runs a network of tunnels once of central importance to the fledgling township of Diamond Creek. These are relics of gold mines, which transformed early Diamond Creek.1 The tiny settlement of about 20 families soared to more than 200 because of gold. For around 50 years, from 1862, gold mining was Diamond Creek’s major source of employment. On September 7, 1854 The Argus newspaper reported a find of a four pound (1.8kg) gold nugget in Nillumbik (an early name for Diamond Creek). Exactly where, is not known.2 The largest mine in the district, the Diamond Creek Gold Mine, apparently originated from a find in 1862. It is said Joe and Dave Wilson were visiting former tailor then cook, Charles Orme, at the southern end of Fraser Street. Sitting on a stump outside the front gate on land belonging to Dr A. E. Phipps the Wilsons found a vein of gold-bearing quartz, which led to the discovery of four quartz reefs varying in width to eight inches (20cm), running north and south. A reef found at the foot of the hill opposite Challenger Street became the Union Mine. This reef was traced south to Allendale Road where a small mine began operations.3 Other smaller mines later operated as well. Dr Phipps immediately began to mine and also built the Diamond Reef Hotel as a boarding house for miners. But Charles Orme, who owned the land alongside, leased his mine to Dr Phipps probably because of insufficient funds and business skills. By mid 1865 the mine had produced 2530 ounces of gold – a 100% profit on the original outlay. Of course there were problems. When the local dam dried up a Blake pump was installed to draw water from the creek. The Union Mine operated under the Diamond Creek Gold Mine management except when disputes sometimes resulted in separate management. However disagreements had to be resolved as the Union Mine depended on Diamond Creek Gold Mine pumps to remove underground water from common reefs. In 1912 the main shaft of about 380 yards (350m) employed 200 men recovering an average of 5000 ounces (141.7kg) of gold a year. But not everyone did well out of gold. Records of failed mining companies in the Victorian Public Record Office, reveal that owner Dr Phipps leased his Right to others. Companies came and went over the next 40 years, most sponsored by Melbourne businessmen who sold shares to gullible locals and then became insolvent. Although there were some good profits, financial returns were haphazard until 1905. Some local residents, who were share holders in short- term companies, became well-known names in modern Diamond Creek such as Scott, Haley, Butler, Alder, Ryan, Wadeson, Reeves, Alston, Paul and Edwards. Gold mining was brought to a disastrous end on January 20, 1915 at 3 pm, when fire destroyed nearly all the above-ground plant. Fortunately no lives were lost. But reopening the mine was almost impossible because of the increasing depth of water in the main shaft. The closed mine destroyed the livelihood of 200 families and the debris took many years to clear.4 In 1946 the Diamond Creek Gold Mine was reopened by the Golden Hind Mining Company, but money ran out before the 600 feet (182.8m) or so of water could be removed. Gold remains in the mine but enormous capital would be needed to buy the land, equipment and to remove the water. Today 12 known sealed shafts along the ridge of the hills on private property extend west for around one kilometre from the corner of Fraser and Haley Streets, crossing Norma and Fyffe to Dering Streets. As recently as 1987, heavy rains revealed a former Union Mine shaft in the Georgiadis family Fyffe Street back yard.5 Allendale Mine, south of Allendale Road, is still open and one of the Union Mine’s main drives (horizontal excavation) remains unsealed, on the Creek Reserve.This collection of almost 130 photos about places and people within the Shire of Nillumbik, an urban and rural municipality in Melbourne's north, contributes to an understanding of the history of the Shire. Published in 2008 immediately prior to the Black Saturday bushfires of February 7, 2009, it documents sites that were impacted, and in some cases destroyed by the fires. It includes photographs taken especially for the publication, creating a unique time capsule representing the Shire in the early 21st century. It remains the most recent comprehenesive publication devoted to the Shire's history connecting local residents to the past. nillumbik now and then (marshall-king) collection, diamond creek, diamond creek mine, fraser street, gold mining, james cook drive, mine hill