The Orbost Fire brigade was formed in 1919. With the help of some large donated funds a fire station was built in 1920. the foundation leader of ther Brigade was Captain George Hudson with Mr Jack Healey as secretary. A street procession was held on Saturday November 12 as part of the celebrations.This item is associated with the Orbost Fire Brigade an integral part of community support in Orbost. The article is a useful research tool.A copy of a newspaper article from the Snowy River Mail. It is the history of the Orbost Fire Brigade which was celebrating 75 years of service.orbost-fire-brigade

S.S, No 4688, Francis Street, Heathmont, 3135 History Two A4 pages of notes on the beginnings of the Heathmont S.S The text is:- STATE SCHOOL No 4698 Frances Street Heathmont, 3135 HISTORY School classes at Heathmont commenced in the original Methodist Church building in Canterbury Road in 1952 with Mr A.J. McKinlay as Head Teacher in charge of a school of 80 pupils. Shortly afterwards both a Parents and Citizens Association and the first School Committee were formed. Mr J.B. Harper was appointed as president of the Association and Mr H. Walker was elected as chairmen of the Committee, while Mr T. Jago acted as secretary to both bodies. Later in that same year the district Inspector, Mr H. Fleigner since retired and still a Heathmont resident, woe instrumental in obtaining a site for the establishment of the present Heathmont School at the corner of Frances Street and Balfour Avenue. The land was purchased from Mr. Handasyde, an orchardist of Wantirna South. In March 1963 a Bristol prefabricated aluminium building comprising four classrooms and an office was occupied. On April 21st, 1953 the school was opened officially by the Minister for Education, the Hon. A.E. Shepherd MLA. By December of that year the attendance had increased to 191 pupils, Mr N. Gillham was Head Teacher at the time. In February 1955 Mr. K. Gerraty succeeded Mr Gillham and by 1957 attendance had risen to 326 pupils necessitating the provision of additional light timber construction classrooms. Meanwhile the subdivision of large areas of local orchard land into housing estates with its resulting rapidly increasing population presented a persistent school accommodation problem that was met temporarily by the hiring of district church halls to accommodate a steadily rising attendance. Fortunately the tradition of voluntarily contributing to school funds and voluntarily providing labour initiated by the original parent bodies in 1952 was maintained. Then Mr V. Milligan commenced as Head Teacher in 1959, much of the steeply contoured playground area had been terraced, a football oval formed and the basketball court and assembly areas were sealed. These improvements were finally completed largely due to the enthusiasm, vigor and work effected by the School Committee under the chairmanship of Ringwood Councillor Mr JM McRae, as is borne out by the following report by Mr R.J. Chapman, District Inspector in 1961. "The local support by parents given to the Head Teacher and his staff is exceptional and I express my appreciation of their outstanding service." Mr Milligan's contribution to progress, however, lay equally in the internal educational development, particularly with regard to the teaching of reading. A course in the mechanics of speed reading, involving the use of the tachistoscope reading rate controllers and programmed comprehension sets was introduced and a start was made in the building up of a library of literature and reference books. As a result the Education Department appointed a Teacher-librarian to ensure continuity and further progress with this Reading scheme. A feature of Heathmont School is the splendid modern Art/Craft room opened while Mr L. Sebire was head teacher in 1966. This building and courtyard, linked to the original building by a covered way was designed by Mr Salvatore who acted as honorary architect, and was completed by Mr John F. Swan at a cost of �10,000 of which 52% was provided by a School Committee Co-operative loan and 42% by Departmental special grant. Materials used were white sandstone brick and oregon pine. The building bears the name of Councillor J.M. McRae Art Centre as a tribute to the man who did so much to enable its construction. An Art/Craft specialist teacher is provided by the Education Department. As attendance continued to increase to 520 children in 1969, additional accommodation became an urgent necessity. Following negotiations conducted by Mr A. Lethbridge School Committee President, Mr JJ Egan, former Principal and the present Principal, Mr A.S. Don the Education Department Assisted by a second Committee Co-operative loan, purchased the adjacent Baptist Church property thus providing much needed extra accommodation and playground area The newly acquired building is at present in use as two temporary classrooms, but will subsequent be used as a utility rope. A smaller room has been converted to a canteen operated daily by the Parents and Citizens Association, thus providing both a service to the pupils and a source of income. +Additional Keywords: McKinlay, Mr.A G Harper, Mr J.B Walker,Mr.H Fleigner, Mr.H Handasyde, Mr. G Shepherd, Hon. A.E. MLA Gillham, Mr.K Garraty, Mr.K Milligan, Mr.V McRae, Mr. J.M. Chapman,Mr.R.J. Sebire,Mr.L Salvatore,Mr. Swann,Mr.John F. Lethbridge, mr.A Egan,Mr.J.J. Don,Mr.A.S.

This six-postcard group is the second in a series of records of items in the collection of Edgar Dawson DCM. Dawson was the Regimental Sergeant Major of 57th Battalion, AIF. The 57th had a company of men largely from Bendigo and Eaglehawk. These postcards are from his personal album. Many are annotated in Dawson's hand with explanatory notes on the subject. Refer to Cat No 893 for his service details. Items originally in album cat. no. 207P Service details available through the NAA. Collection of six black and white postcards: 1. Photographic portrait from left William George Saville 4182, Alexander Pollock 3587 57th Btn, and unidentified trooper, possible 4th Light Horse Regiment. 2. Photographic portrait of Light Horse trooper. 3. Photographic portrait of William Tamlyn Curnow, 5078, 57th Btn 4. Photographic portrait of "Jim", 5. Photographic portrait of Septimus Fletcher, 4485, 57th Btn 6. Photographic portrait of Robert Gamble, 4644, 57th Btn 2. Card is addressed to "1904 L.Cpl W.W. Martin, D Cpy 57th Batt". Martin was 2150, KIA 26th September 1917. 3. On front "Sincerely, W. T. Curnow". On verso, "To Hec, from his old pal Curnow Sgt" 'Hec' was Dawson's nickname. 4. On front "Yours sincerely Jim". On verso, card addressed "350 Pte Melen, R. C., 15th Field Ambulance, via Manners St Maryborough Victoria" The 15th Field Ambulance Cpy, supported the 57th and other battalions of the 15th Brigade. 5. On verso "This is an Eaglehawk boy Septimus Fletcher, he came over with me and was with us a long time, but is on Division now" 6. On verso "This is our signal Cpl wearing his military medal for keeping communication at Bullecourt". Gamble won the MM for his actions 13th May 1917.57th battalion, postcards, album dawson dcm, edgar dawson dcm

"W.J. BERTUCH" - Service details - Refer Cat No. 1664.2Letter - beige colour paper with black and blue print business letterhead, black ink type written letter and blue ink pen, handwritten signature. Letter has been folded. This is a "To Whom it May Concern" letter written on behalf of W.J. Bertuch, supporting his late arrival at camp after leave.Letterhead with black and blue print. "GEO. R. INNES & SONS/ 411-417 HARGREAVES STREET, BENDIGO TELEPHONE 3 0574 (3 lines) P.O. BOX 74/ AUTOMOTIVE REPAIR SPECIALISTS NEW & USED CARS" Signature in blue ink pen "C.T. Blake" .correspondence, letter, w j bertuch

"FACES OF THE RATS" VOL 1 AND VOL 2. Produced for the Descendants of the Rats of Tobruk Association Inc. Biographical record of many men who served in Tobruk - not complete.1. & 2. Soft cover book. 1. & 2. Cover - light weight cardboard. Block print on front and spine (Vol 1), front (Vol11). Illustrated group photograph - black and white, on front. Pages - cut, plain, glossy white paper. Illustrated with colour or black and white portrait photograph of each serviceman with information on name, service number, unit, where born, where enlisted, areas of service overseas, wounded in battle, did he survive the war, medals received etc. Two servicemen per page.1. Front end paper - handwritten black ink "Luke/ Thanks for all your/ help & support/ R. Windlow 2021". 2.Title page - handwritten black ink "LUKE/ THANKS FOR YOUR HELP, SUPPORT/ & FRIENDSHIP, R WINDLOW 2021"book, rats of tobruk

Division of Responsibility within the Army Survey Regiment detailing the Management, Logistics, Production and Training in some detail. Sections detail the functions of key personnel and sub sections within the Regt. Other Sections describe production responsibilities, coordination of production aspects, management, manning and supply. Annex A has 13 x appendices. The "P" category has Personnel Employment - Officers, Other Ranks and Misc. Individual Support, Collective Support, Discipline, Financial, Conditions of Service, Ceremonial, Personnel Branch Services, Individual Training and other functions not allocated to the "P" category.A4 booklet detailing the division of responsibility within the Army Survey Regiment, paper pages with two staples on the booklet spine.royal australian survey corps, rasvy, fortuna, army survey regiment, army svy regt, asr

This is a set of 14 photographs of an All-Staff meeting held by the lake at the Army Survey Regiment, Fortuna, Bendigo on the 24th of April 1994. At this meeting CO LTCOL Duncan Burns announced that under Defence’s Commercial Support Program (CSP), the In-House bid submitted in 1993 by a team led by then CO LTCOL Bob McHenry was successful. The In-House bid proposed the establishment of an organisation based at Fortuna to carry out non-core production with 150 of the 373 Survey Corps positions converted to Defence civilian positions. 110 of the Defence civilian positions would be filled voluntarily by military personnel under Section 81B of the Public Service Act 1992 with the remaining 40 positions filled by Public Service recruitment. Other options offered to Survey Corps personnel were postings to 1st Topographic Survey Squadron in Enoggera, QLD, transfer to another Corps in the Australian Army or discharge from the ADF. The In-House bid also proposed 143 Survey Corps military positions to remain at Fortuna to perform ‘core strategic non-sovereign tasks.’ However, Army subsequently decided to abolish the 143 positions, disband 4th Field Survey Squadron, Adelaide, SA and lastly, the demise of the Royal Australian Survey Corp in June 1996. This period of the Army Survey Regiment’s history is covered in more detail in pages 160 to 162 of Valerie Lovejoy’s book 'Mapmakers of Fortuna – A history of the Army Survey Regiment’ ISBN: 0-646-42120-4.This is a set of 14 photograph of an All-Staff Meeting held at the Army Survey Regiment, Fortuna, Bendigo on the 24th of April 1994, to announce the success of Army’s Defence’s Commercial Support Program (CSP) In-house Bid. The Black and white photos are on photographic paper and scanned at 300 dpi. They are part of the Army Survey Regiment’s Collection. .1) to .3) - Photo, black & white, 1994. CO LTCOL Duncan Burns briefing Army Survey Regiment personnel and civilians. .4) to .5P - Photo, black & white, 1994. D-SVY COL Simon Lemon briefing Army Survey Regiment personnel and civilians. .6) - Photo, black & white, 1994. L to R: D-SVY COL Simon Lemon, unidentified civilian. .7) - Photo, black & 1994. L to R: SCMA WO1 Alan Hancox, unidentified civilian. .8) - Photo, black & 1994. RSM WO1 Phil Meagher. .9) - Photo, black & 1994. WO2 Rob Bogumil. .10) - Photo, black & 1994. Left Row: all unidentified. Centre Row L to R: unidentified (x2), SGT Jim Ash, CPL Steve Linane, CPL Andrew Quin, SGT Craig Kellet, unidentified. Back row L to R: unidentified (x2), SGT Barry Miller, SSGT Steve Winner, SPR Shane Campbell, SPR Karen McQuaigue, CPL Geoff Webb. .11) - Photo, black & 1994. L to R: CPL Warren ‘Waldo’ Shirley, COL COMDT COL Don Swiney MBE. .12) - Photo, black & 1994. L to R: LT Scott Seefeld, CAPT Bin Fashar Sutiman (Indonesian Army), LT Darren Radford, CAPT Gary Warnest, unidentified US exchange officer. .13) - Photo, black & 1994. L to R: unidentified, SGT Mark Host, LT Anthony Chamberlayne, unidentified (x2), Mr Tony Spurling. .14) - Photo, black & 1994. L to R: unidentified US exchange officer, CAPT Bill Griggs, CAPT Matt Jackson CSM, LT Darren Radford, unidentified, LT Scott Seefeld, SGT Mark Host, LT Gordon Muir, CAPT Gary Warnest, LT Anthony Chamberlayne, unidentified (x2), LT Colin Davidson.No personnel are identified. Annotated with date on folder sleeve.royal australian survey corps, rasvy, army svy regt, army survey regiment, fortuna, asr

These 34 photographs were taken at a CO’s parade at the Army Survey Regiment, Bendigo in c1987. The Colonel Commandant (honorary appointment) of the Survey Corps - COL Clem Sargent (Retd), presented the Defence Force Service Medal to four personnel in recognition of 15 years of efficient remunerated service, or the Clasp for 5 years of additional service. Recipients were WO1 Neville Stone and three unidentified support staff from the Australian Army Catering Corps, Royal Australian Electrical and Mechanical Engineers and the Royal Australian Corps of Transport. This is a set of 34 photographs of a CO’s parade and the presentation of the Defence Force Service Medal, at the Army Survey Regiment, Bendigo in c1987. The colour photographs are on 35mm negative film and are part of the Army Survey Regiment’s Collection. The photographs were scanned at 96 dpi. .1) to 2) - Photo, colour, c1987. Squadrons marching on parade ground. .3) to .4) - Photo, colour, c1987. Squadrons formed up on parade ground. RSM WO1 Jeff Lynch delivering orders. .5) - Photo, colour, c1987. Officers at ease in readiness to take posts. .6) - Photo, colour, c1987. Squadrons formed up on parade ground. RSM WO1 Jeff Lynch delivering orders. .7) - Photo, colour, c1987. RSM WO1 Jeff Lynch handing over to 2IC MAJ Terry Edwards. .8) - Photo, colour, c1987. Officers marching on to take posts. .9) - Photo, colour, c1987. L to R: CPL Paul Richards, SPR Todd Reynolds, SPR Eric Nicholson, MAJ Roger Rix, CPL Steve Hill, unidentified, CPL Russ Mollenhauer, remainder. .10) - Photo, colour, c1987. Guest of Honour - COL COMDT COL Clem Sargent arrives on parade ground, remainder unidentified. .11) - Photo, colour, c1987. Army Survey Regiment ready to salute Guest of Honour - COL COMDT COL Clem Sargent. .12) - Photo, colour, c1987, Guest of Honour - COL COMDT COL Clem Sargent returns salute. .13) - Photo, colour, c1987, L to R: 2IC MAJ Terry Edwards, SPR Eric Nicholson, COL COMDT COL Clem Sargent, SGT John ‘Stormy’ Tempest, unidentified (x2), SGT Mal Paterson, SGT Kevin Boehm, SSGT Peter Mustart, CPL Trevor Poll, SGT Terry Danger. .14) - Photo, colour, c1987, In left foreground MAJ Bob McHenry, unidentified personnel, unidentified officer, 2IC MAJ Terry Edwards, COL COMDT COL Clem Sargent, 3rd from right CAPT Graeme Wastell, CPL John Martin, SGT Martin Evans. .15) - Photo, colour, c1987, L to R: unidentified personnel, unidentified officer, 2IC MAJ Terry Edwards, COL COMDT COL Clem Sargent, SSGT Rick Van der Bom, CPL Paul Hunter, unidentified personnel, CAPT Graeme Wastell, SGT Paul Leskovec CSM, CPL John Martin, SGT Paul Cheater, SGT Martin Evans. .16) - Photo, colour, c1987, L to R: SGT Martin Evans. 2IC MAJ Terry Edwards, unidentified officer, COL COMDT COL Clem Sargent, unidentified personnel, SGT Paul Leskovec CSM, SGT Paul Cheater, SSGT Brian Collings, SSGT Ian ‘Rock’ Thistleton, WO1 Stevo Hinic. .17) - Photo, colour, c1987, L to R: unidentified personnel, 2IC MAJ Terry Edwards, COL COMDT COL Clem Sargent, SGT Roger Rees, unidentified female officer, SGT Phil Smalley, CPL Steve Coulsen, SPR Toni Wright, SGT Steve Gloster, SSGT Ken Talbot-Smith, CPL Darren Wilkinson, unidentified, SGT Paul Hopes. .18) - Photo, colour, c1987, L to R: unidentified female officer, COL COMDT COL Clem Sargent, unidentified, SGT Phil Smalley, CPL Steve Coulsen, SPR Toni Wright, CPL Steve Gloster, SSGT Ken Talbot-Smith, CPL Darren Wilkinson, SGT Paul Hopes. .19) - Photo, colour, c1987, L to R: unidentified personnel, CPL Peter ‘Jack’ Elverd, 2IC MAJ Terry Edwards, COL COMDT COL Clem Sargent, unidentified, SGT Stuart Hibbert, unidentified, Ted Burgess. .20) - Photo, colour, c1987, L to R: unidentified officer, COL COMDT COL Clem Sargent, 2IC MAJ Terry Edwards. .21) - Photo, colour, c1987, L to R: unidentified (x3), WO1 Neville Stone, COL COMDT COL Clem Sargent, SSGT Greg Anderson, unidentified officer, CAPT Graeme Wastell. .22) to .24) - Photo, colour, c1987, L to R: unidentified (x3), WO1 Neville Stone, COL COMDT COL Clem Sargent, SSGT Greg Anderson, unidentified officer. .25) to .26) - Photo, colour, c1987, L to R: unidentified, WO1 Neville Stone, unidentified, COL COMDT COL Clem Sargent, SSGT Greg Anderson, unidentified officer. .26) to 30) - Photo, colour, c1987, L to R: unidentified (x2), WO1 Neville Stone, COL COMDT COL Clem Sargent, SSGT Greg Anderson, unidentified officer. .31) to .34) - Photo, colour, c1987, L to R: unidentified, WO1 Neville Stone, COL COMDT COL Clem Sargent, unidentified officer..1P to .34P – There are no personnel identified.royal australian survey corps, rasvy, army survey regiment, army svy regt, fortuna, asr

Project Mallee Country was support provided to Operation Raleigh by members of the Army Survey Regiment during the period 4 Mar - 26 May 1987. This is the report on their activities. Colonel John Blashford-Snell and Prince Charles launched Operation Drake in 1978, running youth projects from ships circumnavigating the globe, to develop self-confidence and leadership through adventure, scientific exploration and community service. In two years 414 young people took part in the round the world voyage, working on land-based projects in 16 countries. Following the success of Operation Drake, the much more ambitious Operation Raleigh was established in 1984, and ran for five years until 1989. The success of Operation Raleigh saw it continue on a permanent basis in 1988, with an emphasis on land-based expeditions.A4 Report, beige coloured cover, brown motif of Mallee Fowl, containing typed paper pages, poor quality photocopied photos and diagrams, unbound.royal australian survey corps, rasvy, fortuna, army survey regiment, army svy regt, asr

This gong and gavel was presented to the Warrnambool Apex Club in 1953 when the club was re-formed following the disbanding of the club during World War Two. The Warrnambool Apex Club was the fifth club formed in the early 1930s and was a strong and important service club in Warrnambool for many years. It supported the Warrnambool-based Western Region Drug and Alcohol Rehabilitation Centre and Beyond Blue, an organization concentrating on men’s mental health. The Warrnambool Apex Club was disbanded in 2011. The Apex gong and gavel are of historical interest as they are a memento of the now-defunct Warrnambool Apex Club. For many years it was an important service club in Warrnambool. These are a gong on a stand and a gavel, used by the Apex Club of Warrnambool to call a meeting to order. The gong is circular and made of silver-coloured metal. It has a metal triangular-shaped emblem of Apex, featuring a rising sun in red and gold colouring and the word ‘Apex’ in gold lettering on a blue background. The gong is hollow at the back and has a wooden insert with a metal plaque attached with four metal screws. The gong is mounted on a rectangular wooden platform, in four layers, pyramidal-shaped. The platform has been lightly polished. The gavel is made of wood and has a round handle and a rectangular knob inserted into the handle. The knob has rounded edges. ‘Presented to Warrnambool Apex Club on the occasion of their re-charter 28.3.53 by the Camperdown Apex Club’. warrnambool apex club, history of warrnambool

These tram tickets were issued by the Melbourne and Metropolitan Tramways Board which operated from 1919 to 1983 and the train ticket was issued by the Victorian Railways. The Williamstown Short Road Ferry operated from 1931 to 1974 from Port Melbourne to Williamstown and was replaced by the West Gate Bridge which opened in 1978. This was the third ferry service in this area, with the first one commencing in 1873. These tickets have social significance as examples of the tickets used by Melbourne transport in the 1950s. They will be useful for display.These are five paper transport tickets (Melbourne tram & train and Williamstown ferry). The tram tickets are coloured orange and pink, the ferry ticket is green and the train ticket (made of light cardboard) is orange and yellow. The two orange tram tickets, (cost threepence) have an advertisement for Stamina Trousers on the back. They were purchased on the same day. The other tram ticket is a City Section ticket costing fivepence. The ferry ticket cost threepence and the train ticket for travel between Jolimont and Seaholme cost three shillings and fivepence. The tram tickets except for the City Section tram one have been punched with the characteristic punch of the conductor during those journeys. ‘Ask for Stamina self-supporting trousers, Thought for the Month, We become like those we habitually admire’. melbourne tram, train and ferry tickets., warrnambool

The Junction Dam and Clover Dam Power Station, stages of the Kiewa Hydro-Electric Scheme, were needed to meet the increased power demands of the wartime industry in Victoria. Clover added 26 megawatts to the grid. Junction Dam was completed and ready to hold water by September 1943, but was emptied in December 1943 and not filled again until May 1944. Construction of Clover Power Station commenced in July 1941 and both turbines were in service by May 1945.Clover Power Station and Junction Dam were part of the Kiewa Hydro Electric Scheme constructed by the State Electricity Commission of Victoria. SECV official photographers took photographs of most stages of construction of the Hydro Electric Scheme and referenced each photo with a number and dating system as an historical record and for reference for other projects. This provided a thorough history of the construction of the Hydro Electric Scheme, some of the workers involved in its construction and the infrastructure supporting its construction, such a Bogong Village.Small light brown cardboard box originally containing sensitized photographic paper, now containing a range of black and white photographs of the Kiewa Hydro Electric System taken by the official SECV photographer Box has some damage – Front panel on lid is missing. Top has a puncture in top right corner and some peeling of paper along sides and at edges. Printed on the top of the box in black ink: OPEN ONLY IN PHOTOGRAPHIC DARK ROOM SENSITIZED PAPER Manufactured by – KODAK (A/asia) PTY. LTD. Melbourne Australia Green and white sticker on right side of lid and bottom right side of box, torn at join 1. 1B1 Single Weight Soft. Available in Soft (1) Medium (2) Contrast (3) Extra Contrast (4) Single and Double Weight Stamped at bottom of sticker in grey ink G8087 CK photographic paper box; state electricity commission of victoria; official photographer; kiewa hydro electric scheme; clover power station; junction dam; bogong village

The State Electricity Commission of Victoria's Home Advisory Service prepared this collection of recipes. They also assisted with advice and information on the best use of electricity in the home. The S.E.C. sold electrical appliances at their showrooms, one of which was located in Mt Beauty where this booklet came from.The S.E.C.V. constructed the Kiewa Hydro Electric Scheme employing many workers. They built the townships of Bogong and Mt Beauty and assisted with the infrastructure required to support the influx of population. In the Mt Beauty shopping centre, one of the shops was the S.E.C. Showroom which sold electrical appliances and gave advice on their use along with recipe booklets for cooking on the new electrical appliances.Small 12 page booklet with soft cover and two staples binding it. Cover has coloured photos of plates of food with the title in green at the top.recipes. christmas. state electricity commission of victoria. sec home advisory service. electrical appliances.

The SECV's Home Advisory Service prepared this book to advise customers on the use of home freezers.They also assisted with advice and information on other electrical appliances. The SEC had Showrooms in regional Victoria including one at Mt Beauty where this booklet came from.The S.E.C.V. constructed the Kiewa Hydro Electric Scheme employing many workers. They built the townships of Mt Beauty and Bogong and assisted with the infrastructure required to support the influx of population. In the Mt Beauty shopping centre, one of the shops was the SEC Showroom which sold electrical appliances and gave advice on their use. This book gives advise on the use of freezers.Booklet with 22 pages held together with two staples. The cover has an orange and then blue title at the top and below, a coloured picture of fruit and vegetables. state electricity commission of victoria. food. freezer. cooking. electrical appliance.

The SECV's Home Advisory Service prepared this booklet to advise & inform women on the use of cooking with a fully automatic oven. The SECV sold electrical appliances at their showrooms throughout regional Victoria, one of which was located in Mt Beauty.The SECV constructed the Kiewa Hydro Electric Scheme employing many workers. They built the townships of Bogong and Mt Beauty and assisted with the infrastructure required to support the influx of population. In the Mt Beauty shopping centre, one of the shops was the SEC Showroom which sold electrical appliances and gave advice on their use. This booklet gives advice and information on automatic ovens. Green, black and white 12 page booklet with a cardboard cover and held together with 2 staples. The brown title is at the top of the cover and below, in black, a plate, knife and fork with a green and black lace background.Cover: Prepared by the Home Advisory Service of the State Electricity Commission of Victoriaautomatic oven. state electricity commission of victoria. cooking. electrical appliances.

The State Electricity Commission of Victoria's Home Advisory Service prepared this booklet to advise and inform women on the use of cooking with an electric frying pan. The SECV sold electrical appliances at their showrooms throughout regional Victoria, one of which was located at Mt Beauty.The SECV constructed the Kiewa Hydro Electric Scheme employing many workers. They built the township of Bogong and Mt Beauty and assisted with the infrastructure to support the influx of population. In the Mt Beauty shopping centre, one of the shops was the SEC Showroom which sold electrical appliances and gave advice on their uses. This booklet gives advice and information on electric frypans.Purple, black and white 16 page booklet with a cardboard cover and held together with 2 staples. The red title is at the top of the cover and below, in black, a plate, knife and fork with a purple and black lace background.Cover: Prepared by the Home Advisory Service of the SECV.state electricity commission of victoria. cooking. electrical appliance. food. electric frypan.

The S.E.C.V.'s Home Service Section prepared this book to encourage women to cook with electricity especially with the later appliances. Part of their advertising suggested that they go to their electricity showroom for advice on purchasing a new appliance. The S.E.C. had showrooms in regional Victoria including one at Mt Beauty.The SECV constructed the Kiewa Hydro Electric Scheme employing many workers. They built the townships of Bogong and Mt Beauty and assisted with the infrastructure required to support the influx of population. In the Mt Beauty shopping centre, one of the shops was the S.E.C. Showroom, which sold electrical appliances and gave advice on their use and the latest models available. This book is a promotion to encourage women to cook using the latest electrical appliances.The cover is white, black and pinkish book showing a sketch of the top of a stove in the top half and below, the title with a cartoon chef. Along the bottom of the cover "Prepared by the Home Service Section of the / State Electricity Commission of Victoria. The book has 20 pages held by two staples. The book consists of recipes but has some electricity advertising in it as does the back cover.secv. recipes. cooking. electricity. electrical appliances.

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

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

Designed by multi-award winning architect, Gregory Burgess, for which he won the 1995 Royal Australian Insitute 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

Designed by multi-award winning architect, Gregory Burgess, for which he won the 1995 Royal Australian Insitute 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