This biscuit/tea caddy was probably targeting the "theatre going" family or those who liked looking at the colourful shakespearian scenes. This item however demonstrates that the rural (Kiewa Valley) appreciation of classic English plays was, in this time period (early 1900's), just as strong as in the larger towns and cities. This item also presents the period in which the "olde" Elizabethian phrases and words were taught in regional high schools. Although this speech pattern and phraseology was of a specific time period and going out of fashion when Australia was first settled it was an inherited form of communication(higher social/economical level). In the context of the rural Australia "scene" and in this time frame of the elite "boarding school" generation this item was a visual reinforcement of the education level and position of the family who owned this tin.This item is highly significant because it not only presents the social aspects of early life in the Kiewa Valley but also the variety of educational levels and economical variations of the rural population within the Kiewa Valley. The egalitarian perception of the inhabitants of the Kiewa Valley was still at the infancy of early Australian social interactions. This biscuit /tea container was however a leveling of the socio-economic playing field of the time.This biscuit or tea tin, has besides having an outer lid (hinged), it also has an internal lid(with a circular finger grip). Although the shape is rectangular it has a slight concave bulge at each side of the centre of each of its main frame. It is made of pressed light steel and has a raised floor. The corners are bevelled and the outer lid has a bevelled slope ridge in parallel to the extremities of the main tin frame. There are painted scenes from the following Shakespearian plays on each side of the tin; "As you like it", "Hamlet" and on each of the bevelled corners are the portraits of Shakespeare(in the middle), the caricature mask faces of "the theatre" above and on the bottom section the "Director's chair"food storage, kitchen table container, domestic educational storage, shakespeare illustrations

This brown wool felt hat with a broad brim was, by its style, used by a adolescent child for church services. This was worn in a period where church services on Sunday was an important weekly ritual by the whole family. Special (church only) dresses and hats were worn not only to show respect to the church but also part of expected community mores relating to religious beliefs. This behavioural pattern was more entrench in the rural communities than within larger cities. The closeness of smaller rural communities is the main factor regarding social norms. The visible standing within the community was uppermost. The period pre 2000 was a more coheasive family environment ( due to greater intra family activities) which provided better communication and family activities.This "church styled" hat is very significant to the rural lifestyle and its mores. It clearly demonstrates the coheasive force that religion has on the Valley population. The closeness that the semi isolation (at this time) brought about by the Valley's physical land formation and the poor roads within the valley brought families closer together. Not turning up for important social functionsw was duely noted by all (and frowned upon). Mrs E. Fisher lived at Mongan's Bridge in the Kiewa Valley.Brown child's all felt hat size 6 1/4. A broad brim with a lighter brown velvet ribbon head band. Head band has a crossover to the left front with 100 mm extension flowing over the brim. The top of the inside of the head pocket is lined with a soft silk fabric.6 and one quarter (size tag). Unreadable crest / monogramchildren's head wear, social head dress, church hats

This "ladies" pocket knife was used up to the late 1900's by influential and "well off" ladies, not only as a fashion statement but as a practical tool when away from the kitchen/home to peel fruit and provide a cutting instrument for small items. It was a method to show the growing independence of women to skillfully process food away from the home and kitchen. The use of such a small compact knife could also have been used by male cigar smokers (docking the end of the cigar)This "lady's "purse" knife was a demonstration of the growing independence of women in Australia and especially in rural areas up to the 1940's. The two World Wars provided the opportunity for women to take over what was traditionally "men's work". This evolution of women's equality in society brought changes to what the traditional role of rural women had been entrenched from first colonisation of Australia. The use of such a small compact knife could also have been used by male cigar smokers (docking the end of the cigar). This method of preparation of a good cigar would have been used by wealthy property owners or men of "class"This small one blade knife (lady's) has an "ivory" body containing one small blade. Horizontal lines in "off white" appearance run from one end to the other. One end has a "U" fitting(to provide an anchorage for a chain). This small knife could also have been used by male cigar smokers.ladies pocket knife, small knives, traveller's cutting implements

This item has historical value as it shows part of the importance of fashionable money containers specific to a more affluent rural family. The period when sheep properties producing high grade wool were providing Australia with the high yield capital return to sustain an ever growing population. This was an era where most of the manufactured goods were imported from England and the European continent.This has relevant significant value as it portrays the earlier reliance that the growing Australian population had from the rural sector. The wealth capital was from the rural sector and the elaborate fashion accessories, such as this money purse, shows how that wealth was utilised. The Kiewa Valley was part of the "rich" farm regions of Victoria and besides gold mines and tobacco plantations, dairy and cattle properties provided for not only the needs of the Victorian region but also the rest of Australia. This gold plated filigree money purse has a clasp on top for fastening purposes and has on either side inside a small extension frame which would have contained a felt/silk padding buffer. The buffer would have highlighted the intricate pattern of the filigree metalwork.hand purse, money purse, filigree women's accessories

This "mixing" bowl was used in a period before electric food processors and mixers were readily available(1940's). Basic food ingrediences requiring mixing such as cakes scones and bread had to be hand blended.This mixing bowl is very significant to the Kiewa Valley andrural regions because it details not only what kitchens, be they commercial, domestic or rural camp, required to be stocked with but also a period in time when electrical goods such as blenders were not on in production and electricity was not available.This bowl is made from steel and has a green enamel covering. The rim of the bowl has a black border to highlight its edge.nilmixing bowl, kitchen

This photograph frame with its decorative dragon and bamboo shoots was typical of the early 1900's when photography was in the hands of the professional artist. It was in a period before the "instant" photo and required a dark room and processing liquids for development. It was therefor in a time when photographs were "shot" only at important events, be they family or public occasions. Good quality picture frames such as this item were a part of the "reverence" of photographs per se.This photograph frame holds and protects, part of a very significant occasion, the 90th birthday photograph of the matriarch of one of the founding families within the Kiewa Valley. The frame therefore has historical significance.This silver painted aluminium photograph frame has a glass front pane within a formed inlay and a formed inlay at the back. The anchor points, at the back, for securing toggles are in place but not the toggles. These toggles were installed to allow the photograph to be securely positioned within the correct alignment of the the frame.The metal front plate has seven rivets holding the cloth covered cardboard back frame to the metal front cover. The front part of the frame has sculptured dragon and wild bamboo shoots and is boarded with a plain border pattern. The back panel to secure the photo and hold the stabiliser flap is missing. See also KVHS 0092 for a more complete frame.photograph frame early 1900's, the roper family

This DVD of the development of the Tawonga and Mount Beauty General Hospital covers the time period 1949 to 1996. It was a period of intense evolution of both the expansion in population and the increase in the medical facilities provided by a once slightly remote rural hospital to that of one of a regional and alpine advanced hospital. The population expansion of the region during this period was due to the greater growth of local (Kiewa Hydro Scheme) and tourism population provided the need of advancement in the modus operandi of hospital treatments.This DVD details the medical evolution in rural areas and the greater availability of medical professionals to rural areas. The relative isolation of the Kiewa Valley before transport and communications were greatly advanced in the mid to late 1900's resulted in not only increases in population but also the tourism trade. These two important factors required the degree of professionalism for the hospital and with an increasing aged population the diversity into aged care.This DVD has a coloured photograph of the Tawonga District Hospital as a background drop. Printed in black on the front 'An Historical Record / Tawonga District General Hospital / 1949 - 1996.'On the DVD label "An Historical record" below this "Tawonga District General Hospital" below this "1946-1996"hospital dvd, tawonga, mount beauty hospital, specialised treatments

This Timing Relay is quite a large (industrial type) apparatus. The Timer is started by having a voltage of 250 volts direct current (as supplied by batteries). A DC motor then rotates driving into a clockwork mechanism, the output of which is an arm rotating at the same speed as a minute hand on a clock. Attached to this arm is a mercury switch which tips and makes an electrical circuit operate in a sequence control system. The sequences that use these timers are when starting and stopping Hydro Generators. They check that the machine has connected to the power system grid before 20 minutes duration. Brakes must go on for a set time when shutting down a generator slowing at the right speed as measured by this apparatus. These generators are powered by the hydro force of "stored" water at a higher altitude. The establishment of both the NSW and Victorian Hydro schemes was achieved from the mid 1900's to the 1960's. At this point in time the need for additional power sources to quench both an industrial and domestic demand for electricity was purely an economic and not and environmental (carbon reduction) factor. This Timing Relay apparatus is very significant to the Kiewa Valley as its use was introduced during the Kiewa Hydro Scheme. Although only a relay apparatus, it was however part of the explosion of human resources into the valley. This influx of population transformed the region from that of a basically quiet rural region to one which evolved into both an industrial and a larger residential community. This evolution in the valley created a change, not only in the "physical" landscape but also the socio-economic expansion which permitted other "tourist" based industries into the valley. This Hydro Scheme was instigated by "the Government of the day" as a bold move and was the major force behind the acceptance of World War II refugee and "technical" workforce. Inclusion of skilled and unskilled migration into the Australian environment was of a higher priority than a selective quota system of later years.. Although this mass "invasion" of workers with families was thought of in some circles as intrusive, the expansion of population post war years and its integration into the Australian rural sector, produced the multi- lingual, multi-cultural diversity of later years.sec vic kiewa hydro scheme, alternate energy supplies, alpine population growth

This helmet worn by SEC Victoria workers in the Kiewa Hydro Electricity Scheme is a mandatory safety requirement by all personnel employed by government and statutory agencies who worked on or around "dangerous" apparatus or underground location sites. This type of pressed fibre helmet was later superseded by moulded plastic helmets. The start of the project (late 1940's) was not greatly covered by later introduced health and safety regulations. This has been demonstrated by photos of workmen outside using heavy machinery and other apparatus, see KVHS 0396, KVHS 0405 and KVHS 0392. However in the tunnels and underground safety helmets were mandatory, see KVHS 0403.This safety helmet was used by workers during construction of the generators and tunnels of the Kiewa Hydro Scheme was issued once only to each worker during his employment covering the 1940's to 1960's period. The attitude to health and safety during this period, can be summed up by this "initiation" ritual. When the helmet had been instrumental in saving a bad accident to a worker, that worker would be "invested" into the "Turtle Club". Although a safety helmet was only issued once to a worker this changed when modern moulded plastic helmets and greater Health and Safety requirements were introduced. Helmets now are replaced bi-annually.This safety helmet is made from pressed fibres with eyelets for airflow to the head. On the base of the helmet (before the rim) are 15 metal eyelets and three quarters up are six other eyelets (3 on each side). A thick leather strap is fastened by two rivettes to the main helmet. This strap has a metal bar rivetted on to affix a "safety" lamp, for underground work (Tunneling). There are two additional metal prongs and a metal bar to secure the lamp on the rim of the front of the helmet.sec vic kiewa hydro scheme, alternate energy supplies, alpine population growth

This resistor was part of the Hydro generator control metering system which displays what electricity is produced at the underground generators. The control centre can be hundreds of meters above the generators and this resistor reduces the large current to a small voltage entering a calibrated control monitor. This resistor is highly significant to the Kiewa Valley because it represents a major construction and ongoing operational industry dealing with the supply of hydro electricity to Victoria. Although it is relatively small in size it is part of the controlling mechanism for the supply of a non polluting energy source for home and industrial use.This mainly metal and wire resistor has been built of copper and brass and designed to carry a current of 2000 Amperes. Wires are wound around a non conductive cement block which has grooves on the top and bottom ledges to hold the wires snuggle into place. At the rear there are three connection rods which have long 5mm thick screws (to fasten cable ends)On one side it is scribed "0.2 OHMS" and underneath this "10 AMPS"kiewa hydro electricity scheme, victorian state electricity commission, transformers

When this AVOMETER leather case was being utilised in the early 1950's it contained the "leading" edge of electrical measuring instrumentation.The first meter was produced by Automatic Coil Winder and Electrical Equipment Co. in 1923. This model was produced in the time from 1933 to 1951 when it was superseded by the most popular model, Model 8 (1951 to 2008).This leather case which holds its AVO Meter brought the measuring of three electrical power indicators i.e., amps, volts and ohms into one measuring unit. By using a "one fits all" unit, the carrying of separate measuring devices was reduced considerably. The need for a mountainous and a large area of operational requirements, such as the SEC Vic Kiewa Hydro Electricity Scheme, to minimise the weight of equipment carried by electricians and technicians was of the utmost relevance. The significance of this meter to the Kiewa Valley region relates to the impact of modern technology (at that time) upon a mainly rural environment. This equipment shows how the boost of "modern" equipment into the area because of the "Hydro Scheme" was facilitated a lot faster than would have taken under "normal" evolutionary time. The speed of information on all "new technology" had a relatively slow assimilation rate to those living in rural communities. The use of solid leather carrying bags for transporting equipment up and down the mountains provided some form of protection against bumps and dust.This carry case for its AVO meter has an outer leather covering with an inner thick cardboard liner. The case has two mild steel buckles but stitched onto one side but no lid to fasten down. The sides are stitched together with strong tick twine. On either side there are small strap holds. On the bottom are four large chromed metal lugs acting as feet to keep the bottom from lying flat on any floor. The outside bottom has been branded "SOLID COWHIDE"Between the front two buckles is a identification plate riveted onto the cowhide "STATE ELECTRICITY COMMISSION OF VICTORIA ELECTRICAL ENGINEERING SECTION"electrical meters, electrical equipment, sec vic., state electricity commission of victoria, mount beauty, bogong village

This sign is a part of the "human" factor required for remote and difficult, large impact (both labour and other resources) projects. It is one of the "human" factors which was clearly used in the big 1930's to the 1970's "landscape redevelopment" schemes which started in the early 1900's and is highly regarded as lifting the Australian psyche of only primary producers to an industrial level, equal to any in the world.This "Wet Canteen" sign was installed at the entrance of the Bogong "workers" village "provision's hut" detailing the operational times for the SEC Victorian staff and construction workers, involved in the building of the Kiewa Hydro Electricity Scheme to obtain alcoholic beverages. This facility lasted for over the extensive period (1938 to 1961) of the "Schemes" building phase. This large project was the forerunner when industrial legislation provided for the welfare of workers living in the Bogong Village. The provision of facilities such as a "wet canteen" was of the utmost importance not only to ensure that the long running project was both successful, production wise, but also that its employees were not only physically but also mentally healthy. This sign details that all aspects required for a fit and productive labour force were in place, in this remote and demanding work environment. The majority of heavy equipment and machinery used was either made in England or Europe. A section of the specialised workforce came from local and European expertise in dam construction and water management in alpine terrain. The majority of labour came from migrants and some specialists recruited from England and Europe. At this point in time, the quality of the machines used came from England, Europe and the USA and could not be matched from anywhere else in the developed world. With a specialised workforce came the responsibility of providing all the "comforts of home" including alcoholic beverages. On site accommodation for the workforce is still a requirement for some mining areas but high market returns have produced fly in/out labour.This anodised metal sign has been "block" stenciled on. Black lettering and numbers with the main headings underlined with a red and a yellow line(emphasising the headings)In black stenciled type "BOGONG WET CANTEEN" underneath this "TRADING HOURS" Below this "MONDAY TO THURSDAY 5.15 PM TO 5.50 PM, 7.00 PM TO 9.00 PM" "FRIDAYS SHORT WEEKEND 4.30 PM TO 5.20 PM 7.00 PM TO 9.00 PM" Below this "FRIDAYS LONG WEEKEND 10.00AM TO 11.30 AM" Below this "SATURDAYS PUBLIC HOLIDAYS 4.30 PM TO 5.30 PM 7.00 PM TO 8.30 PM" bELOW THIS "CANTEEN WILL BE CLOSED ON SUNDAYS, GOOD FRIDAY AND UNTIL 4.00 PM ON ANZAC DAY"saucer, plate, secv, state electricity commission of victoria, canteen, bogong mess hall, recreational amenities, socialisation of sec vic kiewa hydro scheme labour force

This case was used between 1950 and 1980's. As part of the Occupation, Health and Safety requirements, equipment used to monitor the performance of electricity producing generators, regularly, hand held testers were used to check the insulation and the "earth" pin were up the the required operational levels. As the generators and their ancillary monitoring equipment was spread over a large area and cumbersome to service small hand held devices were required. These had to always be safe for the user to operate. A selected range of high quality meters were recalibrated every two years in the Meter and Calibration Laboratory at Yarraville(near Melbourne)This leather case contains a meter which is very significant to The Kiewa Hydro Electricity Scheme because it was an integral part of maintaining the electricity producing water driven generators of the power stations. The reason why this meter was so essential is that provided the safety check on equipment used to monitor each Hydro Generator that they were complying within the grid network parameters. Grid parameters are set so that if there is an electrical fault on the system, that fault can be attended to with a very small change in the output stability of each generator. It is essential that the voltage of the network remain within the set limits. Generators are at Dartmouth, Mackay, Clover, West Kiewa, Yarrawonga, Cain Curran and three Power Stations in the Thornton area.This carry case is made from leather hide and cloth covered cardboard insert. The front side has a lockable English made suitcase fitting. It has a broken carry strap (leather) travelling from top and through leather strap holders both sides and on the bottom of the case. A State Electricity Commission of Victoria identification tag riveted onto the top lid "ELECTRICAL ENGINEERING SECTION No. 1483"sec vic kiewa hydro scheme, alternate energy supplies, alpine located electricity generators, mobile measuring equipment

This manual telephone exchange console is an important piece of equipment which provided the most efficient method of long distance communications in the 1950's to the 1980's. Communications were critical, not only for the regional Hospital, but also for large construction sites i.e. the Kiewa Hydro Scheme, especially if they are in dense rugged mountainous regions. The degree of Occupation Health and Welfare on industrial sites were at a bare minimum compared to the work scene after the 1980's.This telephone exchange console is highly significant to both the Kiewa Valley and Mount Beauty region because it was so important in the communications field relating to operational safety and work related controls. The success of any large undertaken relies heavily upon good communications. In the hospital this method of communications is still used i.e. patient to ward station. This flag system link a patient's room to the controlling nursing station. Identification of the patient needing help is crucial for swift action from the available medical staff. Similarly in large construction sites such as the Kiewa Hydro Scheme, successful instant communications was also essential. This switchboard required a 50 volt supply to successfully operate and was in use when both telecommunications and postal were under the one Federal Government carrier i.e. The Post Master General. A benefit with a line communication system (such as the one that fed this console was that interference from atmospheric conditions did not impede the connection.This console telephone switchboard (manual) unit has a shutter operation (precursor to the light indicator) to identify the caller to the telephone switchboard operator. This switchboard has a ten point indication shutter system allowing the operator to clearly identify where the caller is located. The console has a 44 connection point holes with their configurations in a triangular shape. The shutters are held closed by a small lever at the top which is opened by a small electrical charge from the incoming call. The operator uses a wind up handle to power a magneto connector(handle on the console's right side). The telephone hand set is located on the left side of the console. sec vic kiewa hydro scheme, alternate energy supplies, alpine population growth and communications

This framed sketch details, in graphic form, where the core samples in the display cabinet were removed. The drilling was a precursor to the decision where to locate, in this case, the McKay Creek Power Station. The information gained by structural engineers from the core samples would be used also for the placements of underground tunnels entry and exit points and the overall effective size of the plant. This would have included drill and blast techniques(rock characteristics play an import part of explosion control), requirements for support structures and reinforcing cement/steel forms. The use and replenishment of diamond drill bits(the strongest available, see KVHS 0280) was dependent on the "type" of rock found. Support beams for reinforced ceilings and floors was also a necessity.The visual derails of where the rock core samples were removed is very significant in the formulation and placement of the underground Power Stations and their maze of tunnels(in and out) for a successful implementation of the Hydro Scheme. The amount of pre-planning and scientific studies required for such a large scheme must be undertaken to ensure that a "white elephant" was not the result.This framed and glass front rock core display sketch has type written information of the rock samples displayed in KVHS 0279 (A). It has a softwood stained and glossed frame with a fixed(nailed) back board and a brass fixture for mounting onto a wall.The paper and type are slighted faded (sunlight affected). The sign heading "ROCK CORE SAMPLES RECOVERED FROM DIAMOND DRILLED BORE" underneath this "BORE NO: 883" and below this "LOCATION: McKAY CREEK POWER STATION AREA" to the left a sketch incorporating the ground level point "GROUND LEVEL R.L.3493", and the core depth point "CORE DEPTH 40' 7". In between and representing( in visual form) the core location areain question.alternate energy supplies, alpine feasibility studies temperature, rainfall, sec, kiewa hydro scheme, electricity

This line connector tool is part of the erecting of electricity cables from the power stations to the ultimate distribution sub stations throughout Victoria. It is used to extend cable length and secure cable to tower points. This type of equipment has been in use in this region since power production commenced in the 1950'sThis connection tool is a vital part in the distribution of hydro produced electricity from its mother power plant to its ultimate destination be it rural towns, industry or city. It has been used in the Kiewa valley and its Alpine regions.This power line connection tool was required to extend the length of the power line and is made up from a "compression sleeve" with its connecting lug and at the other end the suspension eye.Stamped on the compression sleeve "4/7/.1297"sec vic kiewa hydro scheme, alternate energy supplies, alpine population growth

This tuyere (word from French origin) was used by professional blacksmiths and or cattlemen before and during the Kiewa Hydro Electricity Scheme was being constructed. The need to use a furnace or forge in the shaping of metal rods, horse shoes and pipes is both a rural necessity and a construction, on site requirement. The "inventiveness" of cattlemen and construction workers to produce metal objects not available "off the shelf" is one of the inherent traits not only of rural self sufficiency but in the "pioneer" days of rural isolation one of survival.This tuyere is of great significance to the Kiewa Valley and its regions because it highlights one of the greatest strengths of the rural (especially isolated) life and its folk living there, and that is the great human factor of adaptability and survival techniques in sometimes harsh and demanding environmental circumstances. The inventiveness and the attitude, "she'll be right mate", demonstrates life on the land where specialised blacksmith activities can be found in non "professionals" because of the fact that "someone" has to do the job. This is one of the differences between country "rural" life and that found in cities and larger towns.This iron cone shaped tuyere has a small hole (diamenter 25mm) starting within an ever enlarging cone (amplification of the air pressure going through) delivering varying hot or extremely hot air into a furnace or hearth which intensifies the heat to allow the "shaping" of metal objects. The larger "flared" cone extension allows for the directed air to be spread and not concentrated.blacksmith tool, tue, bellows, fashioning metal, forge manufacturing process

This "art deco" style of containers were very popular by the "art and trendy" socialites, be they in the city or in rural towns and properties. This style was very popular in the 1940's to 1950's. The octagonal shape provided the stability of the decanter with its "expensive" contents. Because of its style it blended in well with any lavish meal and socio economic "upper" class environment. It was a part of social atmosphere of elegance and wealth be it in the city or on a rural property. This is very significant to the Kiewa Valley rural "society" environment. At the time of its use the wealth of Australia was "riding on the sheep's back", that is rural income(primary producers), on the whole, was well above that in the cities (industrial). It was in a period where large wealthy property owners could spend lavishly on trendy domestic items.This octagonal glass decanter with its egg shaped stopper is made in an "art deco" style and reflects the 1950's style of bold design. The decanter "stopper" has been cut in a "diamond" cut to reflect the sunlight as does a diamond ring. The stopper is tapered down to permit easy placement and removal. The Stability of the decanter is increased by the broad base and octagonal (8) sides tapering going up the sides.decanter, glass, art deco glass ware, spirits container

This kettle was used by pioneer families, mainly rural, folk that needed a constant readily available source of boiling water, in or mainly outside the homestead.. This kettle was used in the early to late 1900's for the refreshment of stock men and farmers that had irregular "tea" breaks under sometimes hard and gruelling conditions.This kettle belonged and was used by a Kiewa Valley, pioneer family, the Roper Family. This kettle was moved from their Kiewa Valley property to their hut built on the Bogong High Plains. A scientific study started in 1947 to study the impact of grazing cattle on the natural Alpine and sub Alpine vegetation found grazing cattle had an adverse affect on the natural Alpine and sub alpine vegetation, and grazing on the plains was stopped by the Victorian Government in 2005.This "camp draft" could take up to six weeks.This large cast iron kettle holds a capacity of three pints of water/tea. It has a flat base and mushroom shaped handle welded onto the "pot" below the rim of the pot opening. It has a rim to position the tea pot lid but no lid. It has a curved spout "welded" to the main body.Clark Qualitycamp fire cooking utensils, hot plate, cast iron cooking appliance, drovers kitchen

This stock horse saddle was probably used in the mid 1900's. This was the period when cattle mustering was at its prime. The movement of cattle was by mounted stock horse only and not by other methods. Northern territory cattle stations in the late 1900's started to use helicopters for "cattle control". In the KIEWA Valley/Bogong High Plains and other rural cattle producing areas required well trained stock horses and stockmen for cattle control. It is only in the later 1900's that motor bikes and four wheeled quad-bikes have taken over, in part, from the mounted stockman.This horse saddle is very significant to the Kiewa Valley because of the early introduction of cattle stations in what initially was regarded as a semi remote location. The maintenance of cattle in the Kiewa Valley is and was an important requirement. A good stock horse saddle as and is important, especially during the period when cattle were grazed on the Bogong High Plains. The mustering and and moving cattle from the valley pastures to the high country was a demanding and dangerous exercise requiring "sure footed" stock horses.The "good" saddle was a vital part of this cattle mustering. A scientific study started in 1947 to study the impact of grazing cattle on the natural Alpine and sub Alpine vegetation found grazing cattle had an adverse affect on the natural Alpine and sub alpine vegetation, and grazing on the plains was stopped by the Victorian Government in 2005.This "camp draft" in the High Plains could take up to six weeks.This all leather "stock horse" saddle shows plenty of wear. It is in "full harness" configaration with stirrups and leg protectors horse, country, leather, gaiters, high, grazing, cattlemen, laces, studs

This type of cast iron kettle was used by pioneer families, mainly rural in the early 1900's upon open fires (log). It covered rural activities that needed a constant readily available source of boiling water, in or mainly outside the kitchen of homesteads. This kettle was used in the early to late 1900's for the refreshment of stock men and farmers that had irregular "tea" breaks under sometimes hard and gruelling conditions.This kettle belonged to and was used by a Kiewa Valley, pioneer family, the Roper Family. This kettle was moved from their Kiewa Valley property to their hut built on the Bogong High Plains. The Bogong High Plains area provided Kiewa Valley cattlemen a good supply of fodder to supplement their Kiewa Valley grazing areas. This "camp draft" activity , in the high plains, could take up to six weeks.This large cast iron modified camp pot (cauldron) has a long tap connection located at the bottom end. The "tap" is made from brass and has a simple elongated "bar" control swivel at the end to control the water flow. The tap suggests that only water was heated (to a constant boil) for the replenishment of cattlemen's, or other horse rider's, tea or coffee mugs. Refreshments at a "temporary" location on the Bogong High Plains. There was a "log" hut built by the Roper family as temporary accommodation for cattlemen and other family members.Ot the flat bottom "FIRST QUALITY 2 GALLONS"camp fire cooking utensils, hot plate, cast iron cooking appliance, drovers kitchen

These horse shoes (one a stock horse and one a draft horse) were probably used in the mid 1900's. They have been roughly made suggesting that a professional blacksmith was not instrumental in their manufacture. On smaller or remote cattle stations either the lead stock man or owner would "fire up" the kiln to provide the adjustments required to the horse shoe to ensure a "tight" fit. The larger cattle stations had a "professional" blacksmith to cover all their "working" horses. Larger properties eg.large Northern territory cattle stations use helicopters for "cattle control".These horse shoes are very significant to the Kiewa Valley because of the early introduction of cattle stations in what initially was regarded as a semi remote location. The maintenance of horses hooves is an important requirement, especially during the period when cattle were grazed on the Bogong High Plains. The mustering and and moving cattle from the valley pastures to the high country was a demanding and dangerous exercise requiring "sure footed" stock horses. A scientific study started in 1947 to study the impact of grazing cattle on the natural Alpine and sub Alpine vegetation found grazing cattle had an adverse affect on the natural Alpine and sub alpine vegetation, and grazing on the plains was stopped by the Victorian Government in 2005.This "camp draft" in the High Plains could take up to six weeks.Both these horse shoes have been "roughly" made but are specifically made for the type of horse which wore them. The smaller of the two is for the stock horse/riding horse and the lager one is for the larger draft horse. Each horse type has a specific role to play in the the type of activity it was used for. The small horse shoe has six "nail" holes for attachment to the horse hoof by special nails. The larger shoe has seven "nail" holes. Both have the three quarter moon shape which fits the curvature of the horses hooves. working horses, bogong high plains camp draft, grazing cattle bogong high plains

This stock horse bridle was probably used in the mid 1900's. This was the period when cattle and sheep mustering was at its prime. The movement of cattle and sheep was by mounted stock horse only and not by other methods. Northern territory cattle stations in the late 1900's started to use helicopters for "cattle control". In the KIEWA Valley/Bogong High Plains and other rural cattle/sheep producing areas required well trained stock horses and stockmen for cattle/sheep control. It is only in the later 1900's that motor bikes and four wheeled quad-bikes have taken over, in part, from the mounted stockman.This horse bridle is very significant to the Kiewa Valley because of the early introduction of cattle and sheep stations in what initially was regarded as a semi remote valley location. The maintenance of cattle and sheep in the Kiewa Valley was, and still is an important requirement of livestock management. A good stock horse bridle is important, especially during the period when cattle and sheep were grazed on the Bogong High Plains. The mustering and and moving cattle/sheep from the valley pastures to the high country was a demanding and dangerous exercise requiring "sure footed" stock horses.The "good specialised" bridle was a vital part of this cattle/sheep mustering. A scientific study started in 1947 to study the impact of grazing cattle/sheep on the natural Alpine and sub Alpine vegetation found grazing cattle had an adverse affect on the natural Alpine and sub alpine vegetation, and grazing on the plains was stopped by the Victorian Government in 2005.This "camp draft" on the Bogong High Plains could take up to six weeks.This harness bridle includes "blinders, winklers or blinkers" and would therefore be used on a pack or "working" horse. This bridle has rings on each end of the browband. The bridle is one used by a horse working in a team configuration pulling a heavy cart or wagon. The bridle has ten adjustable straps to allow it to accommodate a variety of horse sizes. See KVHS 0495 for a stock horse saddle.horse, country, leather bridle, gaiters, high country grazing, cattlemen, laces, studs

These wooden trees for riding stocks are a concept that was brought to early colonial days from "mother" England. Gentle folk of wealth and status used these trees from early 1800's to keep and maintain their riding boots in their correct form. This form of maintaining the tall riding boot structure was maintained in Australia by the rural "elite" both on cattle properties and smaller cattle stations in the early 1900's. Good riding boots were a status symbol in rural and outback Australia. The riding stocks "wooden trees" are very significant in the Kiewa Valley because they were used by members of some of the original grazing cattle families to settle there. Both cattle and sheep properties occupied large areas of the Kiewa Valley and they also herded their flock and herd on the Bogong High Plains region. These stocks and boots were worn by Fred Roper whose great grand daughter donated them to KVHS. Therefore these boots and stocks would date from 1880's to 1920's and are a good representation of the style of boots worn during this period. This pair of wooden stocks for riding boots trees has been manufactured to a very high standard. Each of the four boot tree parts fit snugly together and maintain their form, and that of the boot that they occupy. The groove channels and foot forms (tongue and groove) are exact and once snapped together become very solid. There is a brass ring, attached by a small brass "peg" on each of the thin "sliding" middle uprights. See KVHS 0177 - Riding boots.On top "L" (for left boot), "R" (for right boot)horse. country. leather. gaiters. high plains. grazing. cattlemen. laces. studs. stocks. roper family. bogong high plains.

These type of marking crayons have been in use from the 1800s onward to mark commercial and non commercial goods and articles that require waterproof and visual identification labels. Items such as bales of wool, tobacco tags, transportation tags(shipping, rail and road) and other "hard to mark" items that require information to be displayed by semi permanent waterproof signage. The crayons are also an advantage for young student art work.This particular box of leviathan crayons was in use by students in the Mount Beauty Primary School through the Victorian Education Supply Department. As the texture and adhesive/application qualities (soft medium and hard) allows students to be "creative" on various type of canvases. This type of application in schools is of a non commercial and simplistic art -form nature however more advanced students could present a commercial interest in a viable creative artistic venture. The major commercial and non educational uses are encompassed in a rural grazing and farming regions, of the Kiewa Valley and adjoining lands.The crayon box is made from cardboard and light buff colour. The box contains six "No.1" crayons, two of which have been used. Each crayon is wrapped with manufacturer's details on 180 gsm thick paper. The wrapper runs nearly 4/5 th of the entire length, leaving 1/5th open to display the colour of the crayon. The colours of the crayons are blue, purple, green, yellow, red and black. These crayons provide a waterproof writing, sketching and numbering method and are available in soft, medium and hard texture.Within a chain border and on two opposite sides of the box: "1 Dozen No.1", and below this and underlined "Leviathan Marking Crayons" and below this "Indispensable for all Marking and Checking purposes Waterproof and will not rub off", below this "SUPPLIED UNDER GUARANTEE"waterproof, freehand marking and artworks, school waterproof art, commercial identification marking of rural produce, school art, waterproof labelling

This Pie Iron was used in the mid to late 1900's when stock, both cattle and sheep, were grazed on the Bogong High Plains. Providing meals for stockmen over open fires, even in log cabins in the Victorian Alpine region, was usually by a "camp cook" or a stockman designated "cook" from the Valley station/property. The use of "camping cooking utensils were a necessity and not a "weekend" affair. Stockmen could spend up to six weeks on the plains and all their cooking needs required had to "pack horsed" from the valley below. A scientific study started in 1947, to study the impact of grazing cattle on the natural Alpine and sub Alpine vegetation found grazing cattle had an adverse affect on the natural Alpine and sub alpine vegetation, and grazing on the plains was stopped by the Victorian Government in 2005.This item is highly significant to the Kiewa Valley as it demonstrates the kind of cooking utensils that were required for camp drafts in the Bogong High Plains environment. As the control of cattle and sheep in the High Plains was very demanding upon horse and rider, good "tucker" was a pre- requisite for a successful operation. As the time spent in this remote location was governed by the climatic condition maximum utilisation of the very good pastures in the High Plains was crucial to a successful and profitable season.This pie iron has two pie forms in horizontal configuration and both top and base rounded forms are connected at one end (Top) with pop rivet application. This application allows for the "opening" up of the two halves. The bodies are made from cast iron in a "cup" form and a metal rod and wooden handle extend to permit the opening of the two sides. The inner side of the "cups" are smooth which relates to pie requirements and not the jaffle/sandwich irons. A clasp metal "D" ring is installed at the end of one wooden handle (to keep the iron in the close/cooking position).camp fire cooking utensils, hot plate, cast iron cooking appliances, pie irons, jaffle irons, drovers kitchen

This linesman belt was used under the 1947 Electricity Regulations and before tighter Occupation and Health regulations (late 1990's early 2000's) were introduced that mechanical lifting platforms(wherever possible) replaced the belt up the pole method.The safety concern was that it required that tools needed by the linesman had to be placed in a large canvas bag and attached to the belt (extra weight) then the linesman had to climb the ladder. Ladders had to be at the correct angle and not able to "slip" from their initial footings. A full harness and a secondary fall belt is now mandatory for pole linesmen. The safety of fellow workers could be compromised if they were required to assist or recover the first linesman if needed. In 2006 an additional 269 registered lineworkers were employed. Please note that the terminology of linesman has become unisex. The linesman's belt enabled the linesman to place his feet against the pole adjust the belt (if needed) and lean back securely allowing both hands to be free to work with. This linesman belt is very significant to the Kiewa Valley due to the numerous poles and high voltage overhead power structures that needed maintenance for the extensive "mushroom" installation of electrical power polls(wood and metal). On high poles (steel) climbing pegs were welded on, however in the Alpine areas snow in winter caused an OH&S problem which were hard to overcome. The safety of a linesman when maintenance of electricity line on poles can be highlighted by the New Zealand linesman who survived an 11,000 volt shock when carrying out maintenance. For the record 11,000 volts is four times more powerful than execution by "the electric chair". The maintenance of the linesman's belt was his responsibility (keeping it clean and in "good" condition). Labour laws change this initial responsibility, from the linesman, to the employer. Climbing pegs were installed on higher poles that extended beyond the reach of ladders.This thick leather linesman belt is made from two lengths of heavy lengths of leather straps sewn together to make up 80% of the belt. The remaining 20% is "the belt tonge" which has eleven holes for three (solid steel tang) buckle connections.kiewa hydro electricity scheme, victorian state electricity commission, relays, generators, electrical pole maintenance

This bamboo fishing rod was used in the mid to late 1900's and demonstrates that local production of recreational fishing poles was at a high level and their demand was high. Imported recreational sporting goods from either the United Kingdom, the United States of America or Asia countries was due to the larger lead up times from these suppliers and the greater import costs from slower ocean supply ships. It was only after World War II that the trade influx from other countries has supplied cheaper goods. This recreational fishing pole is highly significant to the Kiewa Valley as it demonstrates that recreational fishing has been evolved from the need to supply a balanced diet by the early pioneer families of fish from the major Kiewa rivers. The ability of the Kiewa Valley rivers to provide a good fishing environment (high protein diet) for both early indigenous families and early pioneers was the important food source that provided for a balanced diet and the higher level of nutritious development of both body and mind. This two piece wooden fishing Rod is made from bamboo shafts or poles, one length thicker than the other. The smaller diameter shaft is the top end and fits into the longer thicker shaft at a stainless steel tube end.The smaller shaft has a stainless steel reinforcement ring where both shafts fit together. At the bottom end of the thick shaft is a black rubber "stopper" or "foot". There are two stainless steel rings, each with a reel holding "bulge" which allows for the the reel's "prongs" to be secured. The top ring has a greater diameter allowing it to move up and down the shaft/pole to secure the top "prong" firmly onto the shaft/pole.recreation, river, rod, fishing, industry, fish

These long handled "Blacksmith" tongs were used in the late 1800's to mid 1900's by a blacksmith(or others) within the Kiewa Valley. During these times blacksmiths would regularly visit "remote" rural properties and work on any "hard to manufacture" items. A few properties had either stockmen,farm hands, or owners able to do "minor" blacksmith work. The ability to undertake blacksmith functions was sometimes "by necessity" handled by a local "jack of all trades" person. During this period however demand for rural based blacksmiths was very high. The rural store, however was usually very small and many "off" the shelf rural appliances and apparatus available in the larger rural towns were not available to the semi remote rural areas.This long handled shaped nipper tongs is very significant to the Kiewa Valley because it represents one of the essential mores relating to isolated rural regions as was the Kiewa Valley at this period in time (1800's to mid 1900's). This "ingrained " more was the ability to achieve anything that was required to maintain a living standard or survival in a remote grazing, mining and farming region. The remoteness was due to the small population, poor transport routes and flood prone roads winding through the lower lying flat plains of the Kiewa Valley. Any blacksmith work whilst grazing Cattle on the Bogong High Plains or any part of the Kiewa Valley, had to be done in situ. The part of the "culture" of this regions was that of "self help" either from within the family or from a friendly neighbour.Long handled blacksmith's tongs. The handles are rusted and painted orange. The nippers have one central fixing and are flat edged.tools, blacksmith, horses, trades