Ruyton Girls' School has a long tradition of awarding prizes to students at annual "Speech Night" events. Speech Night commenced at Ruyton in 1878; the same year in which the School was founded by Mrs Charlotte Anderson. The Ruytonian December 1944, which recounts events from the last year to date, notes the 1943 Speech Night was the sixty-fifth iteration of the occasion. Previously, students were awarded customary books produced in England which were bound in navy blue leather, with the School's name and motto debossed in gold leaf. Speech Night at Ruyton is an extraordinary occasion. It is a time when the School gathers to celebrate both the year just lived and the contribution of Year 12 girls to the life of the School. It is a night of stirring student speeches, acknowledgement of student endeavour and excellence and awe-inspiring performances by School choirs and ensembles. Historic publications note Speech Night would typically "open with the distribution of prizes, followed by 13 musical items, a play, French Dialogue and four tableaux." This particular record is associated with the Speech Night held on 9 December 1949 at the Recreation Hall in Kew, Victoria.The record is historically significant due to the time period in which it was produced. This significance is strengthened in the way the record stands as a testament to the way Ruyton recognises, celebrates and engages its student through programming and events. The record's significance is further enhanced by its strong provenance, having been produced by Ruyton Girls' School and donated to the Archives by a familial connection to a former notable student.A5 size pamphlet printed on cream coloured paper with navy blue ink. Two pages, folded in half.Reverse: RGS008/2024/0013 /ruyton girls' school, students, school, ruyton, victoria, high school, senior school, day school, letter, old ruytonians association, kew, speech night, programme

Ruyton Girls' School has a long tradition of awarding prizes to students at annual "Speech Night" events. Speech Night commenced at Ruyton in 1878; the same year in which the School was founded by Mrs Charlotte Anderson. The Ruytonian December 1944, which recounts events from the last year to date, notes the 1943 Speech Night was the sixty-fifth iteration of the occasion. Previously, students were awarded customary books produced in England which were bound in navy blue leather, with the School's name and motto debossed in gold leaf. Speech Night at Ruyton is an extraordinary occasion. It is a time when the School gathers to celebrate both the year just lived and the contribution of Year 12 girls to the life of the School. It is a night of stirring student speeches, acknowledgement of student endeavour and excellence and awe-inspiring performances by School choirs and ensembles. Historic publications note Speech Night would typically "open with the distribution of prizes, followed by 13 musical items, a play, French Dialogue and four tableaux." This particular record is associated with the Speech Night held on 18 December 1950 at the Recreation Hall in Kew, Victoria.The record has strong historic significance as it was written by a former notable student, Helen Gordon (maiden name Cole). Helen started at Little Ruyton in Prep in 1940 and finished Year 12 in 1952 as School Captain, Bromby Captain, Form Captain for Matric, Tennis Captain, Hockey Captain, Swimming Vice Captain, and an award for Best All-Round Girl. She also played baseball for Victoria. After finishing school, Helen went on to graduate from the University of Melbourne as a physiotherapist in 1956. Her first position at age 19 involved setting up clinics with the Victorian Health Department Poliomyelitis Rural division. Helen’s strong ties to Ruyton continued when she held the position of President of the Old Ruytonians’ Association from the start of 1966 to the end of 1967. In 2019, Helen received an Order of Australia Medal for service to community health as a physiotherapist. She was also the recipient of the 2022 Victorian Senior Achiever Award at Parliament House. Helen passed away in July 2023 at age 88. The record's significance is further enhanced by its strong provenance, having been produced by Ruyton Girls' School and donated to the Archives by a familial connection.A5 size pamphlet printed on cream coloured paper with navy blue ink. Two pages, folded in half.Reverse: RGS008/2024/0014 /ruyton girls' school, students, school, ruyton, victoria, high school, senior school, day school, letter, old ruytonians association, kew

Ruyton Girls' School has a long tradition of awarding prizes to students at annual "Speech Night" events. Speech Night commenced at Ruyton in 1878; the same year in which the School was founded by Mrs Charlotte Anderson. The Ruytonian December 1944, which recounts events from the last year to date, notes the 1943 Speech Night was the sixty-fifth iteration of the occasion. Previously, students were awarded customary books produced in England which were bound in navy blue leather, with the School's name and motto debossed in gold leaf. Speech Night at Ruyton is an extraordinary occasion. It is a time when the School gathers to celebrate both the year just lived and the contribution of Year 12 girls to the life of the School. It is a night of stirring student speeches, acknowledgement of student endeavour and excellence and awe-inspiring performances by School choirs and ensembles. Historic publications note Speech Night would typically "open with the distribution of prizes, followed by 13 musical items, a play, French Dialogue and four tableaux." This particular record is associated with the Speech Night held on 11 December 1951 at the Recreation Hall in Kew, Victoria.The record is historically significant due to the time period in which it was produced. This significance is strengthened in the way the record stands as a testament to the way Ruyton recognises, celebrates and engages its student through programming and events. The record's significance is further enhanced by its strong provenance, having been produced by Ruyton Girls' School and donated to the Archives by a familial connection to a former notable student.A5 size pamphlet printed on cream coloured paper with navy blue ink. Two pages, folded in half.Reverse: RGS008/2024/0015 /ruyton girls' school, students, school, ruyton, victoria, high school, senior school, day school, letter, old ruytonians association, kew, speech night, programme

Ruyton Girls' School has a long tradition of awarding prizes to students at annual "Speech Night" events. Speech Night commenced at Ruyton in 1878; the same year in which the School was founded by Mrs Charlotte Anderson. The Ruytonian December 1944, which recounts events from the last year to date, notes the 1943 Speech Night was the sixty-fifth iteration of the occasion. Previously, students were awarded customary books produced in England which were bound in navy blue leather, with the School's name and motto debossed in gold leaf. Speech Night at Ruyton is an extraordinary occasion. It is a time when the School gathers to celebrate both the year just lived and the contribution of Year 12 girls to the life of the School. It is a night of stirring student speeches, acknowledgement of student endeavour and excellence and awe-inspiring performances by School choirs and ensembles. Historic publications note Speech Night would typically "open with the distribution of prizes, followed by 13 musical items, a play, French Dialogue and four tableaux." This particular record is associated with the Speech Night held on 11 December 1952 at the Recreation Hall in Kew, Victoria.The record is historically significant due to the time period in which it was produced. This significance is strengthened in the way the record stands as a testament to the way Ruyton recognises, celebrates and engages its student through programming and events. The record's significance is further enhanced by its strong provenance, having been produced by Ruyton Girls' School and donated to the Archives by a familial connection to a former notable student.A5 size pamphlet printed on cream coloured paper with navy blue ink. Two pages, folded in half.Reverse: RGS008/2024/0016 /ruyton girls' school, students, school, ruyton, victoria, high school, senior school, day school, letter, old ruytonians association, kew, speech night, programme

Ruyton Girls' School has a long tradition of awarding prizes to students at annual "Speech Night" events. Speech Night commenced at Ruyton in 1878; the same year in which the School was founded by Mrs Charlotte Anderson. The Ruytonian December 1944, which recounts events from the last year to date, notes the 1943 Speech Night was the sixty-fifth iteration of the occasion. Previously, students were awarded customary books produced in England which were bound in navy blue leather, with the School's name and motto debossed in gold leaf. Speech Night at Ruyton is an extraordinary occasion. It is a time when the School gathers to celebrate both the year just lived and the contribution of Year 12 girls to the life of the School. It is a night of stirring student speeches, acknowledgement of student endeavour and excellence and awe-inspiring performances by School choirs and ensembles. Historic publications note Speech Night would typically "open with the distribution of prizes, followed by 13 musical items, a play, French Dialogue and four tableaux." This particular record is associated with the Speech Night held on 14 December 1953 at the Recreation Hall in Kew, Victoria.The record is historically significant due to the time period in which it was produced. This significance is strengthened in the way the record stands as a testament to the way Ruyton recognises, celebrates and engages its student through programming and events. The record's significance is further enhanced by its strong provenance, having been produced by Ruyton Girls' School and donated to the Archives by a familial connection to a former notable student.A5 size pamphlet printed on cream coloured paper with navy blue ink. Two pages, folded in half.Reverse: RGS008/2024/0017 /ruyton girls' school, students, school, ruyton, victoria, high school, senior school, day school, letter, old ruytonians association, kew, speech night, programme

Lily and William Wishart lived during this period in 'Noranook', Fernhurst grove, Kew. There are numerous contemporary accounts of the social and civic activities of Lily Wishart as mayoress of Kew. In a description of a 'Mayoral At Home' in the Kew Recreation Hall, a report in The Australasian (10 Aug 1907, p.46) described the event thus: MAYORAL AT HOME In the Kew Recreation-hall on Thursday evening the Mayor and Mrs. W. Wishart gave an at home to between two and three hundred guests. ... Prior to the musical programme, the mayor and mayoress held a reception, standing on a dais at one side of the room. Mrs. Wishart was gowned in black glace silk, trimmed with handsome lace applique, and she wore a cream Maltese lace scarf over her shoulders, and held a bouquet of cardinal carnations.' This may be the dress in the collection. Another interesting and relevant report is an account in The Argus (19 March 1907, p.6): 'WOMEN'S WORK EXHIBITION The mayoress of Kew (Mrs. W. Wishart) invited the ladies of the district to meet in the mayor's room, town-hall, Kew, at half past 3 o'clock tomorrow afternoon, to consider steps to be taken locally in support of the proposed Exhibition of Women's Work.'The dress is locally significant as the work of a skilled home-dressmaker in Kew, who was also a leading civic figure in the municipality. One tends to think of amateur dressmakers as women who could not afford to purchase clothes from a retailer. Clearly, 'women's work' and the skills that educated and wealthy women acquired in the period allowed them to fashion their own garments.Full length evening dress in four parts. Undergarments include two items: a basic black silk petticoat and an upper black silk slip, the latter with two bands of ruffles. The lace dress is in two parts: a bodice and a skirt. The black, high-necked bodice is constructed of silk organza to which guipure lace has been extensively applied. The bodice has long puffed sleeves, gathered on the forearm to form a wide band of lace and ribbon at the wrist. The skirt is constructed of the same black fabric with descending bands of gathered black silk ribbon, used as ornamentation. The skirt also features a long train. Apart from the donor information about its provenance, the style of the dress can confidently be dated to the period 1900-1910. The dress was made and worn to civic functions by Mrs Lily Wishart, Mayoress of Kew in 1906-7. Earlier items belonging to William and Lily Wishart entered the collection as early as 2002. The dress was donated by a descendant of a friend of Lily Wishart in 2020. The photograph of the dress and its components attached to the record needed to be digitally enhanced so that details of the dress could be viewed online, as the fabric of the dress is an intense black. A physical assessment of the dress is included in the condition report.fashion & design collection - kew historical society, australian fashion - 1900s, evening dresses, lily clara wishart, fashion design, fashion -- 1900s

Marjorie Gretchen Myers Born at Melton on the 21st of February 1912 Attended Melton State School No 430 1917 and left school to become a music teacher. A pupil of Miss Ross the Music teacher at Melton she advanced rapidly and achieved her A.L.C.M. (Associate of the London College of Music) at the age of 12 years. At 14 years she gained her L.L.C.M. (Licentiate of the London College of Music). At the age of 16 she was awarded a part scholarship in 1928 to the to the Melbourne Conservatorium of Music studying pianoforte under Miss Elsie Fraser. She gained her A.Mus.A. at the age of 17 and her L. Mus. A. at the age of 18 years. In 1935 she won a full scholarship given by Madame Elsie Ashton for singing. The “Australian Musical New” Mr Thorald Waters the adjudicator found her outstanding qualities as a musician an added reason for singling out Miss Myers with her voice being the most promising of those heard. She died on 10 September 2004 in Frankston, Victoria, Australia.She married Herbert Vivian BUTLER on 07 January 1939 in Victoria, Australia.Myer's gravestone is at Melton Cemetery local identities, pioneer families

A photo of the finale of the 1953 demonstration. There is a large portrait of the Queen and her coat of arms above the stage with a Legacy torch suspended high above it. Junior legatees on stage in many different costumes, including beef eaters, soldiers, and in naval uniforms. Flag bearers hold Australian, UK, and Welsh flags. Some of the children hold musical instruments. Throughout the year Melbourne Legacy provided classes for Junior Legatees such as dancing, gymnastics and Eurythmics. The Demonstration was an annual event to showcase their skills. Melbourne Legacy conducted Annual Demonstrations / Parades from 1928 through to the 1980's, usually held at Melbourne Town Hall or Olympic Pool Stadium. The beautiful costumes were made by members of the Junior Legacy Mothers' Club and the Melbourne Legacy Wives' Association. Names on the back of the photo could be those who ordered reprints. They include: EDC / Wilma / Dorothy Allen / Helen McGregor / B McCutcheon / Margaret Wallace / J Britton / Val Wigg / J Rees / M Rinnie / Mary Parker / Legatee Grattan / Audrey B / Norrie / Marguerite / Joan Spencer / B McCutcheon / Theresa.A record of the displays at the Annual Demonstrations. Also that Legacy provided classes for junior legatees and the skills learned were displayed in the Annual Demonstration.Black and white photo of the finale of the 1953 Annual Demonstration.In pencil on the reverse " Finale - 1953 Demo " Then a list of names who had ordered reprints.annual demonstration, junior legatee

On Saturday 17 May 1947, an article on page 25 of the Australian Women’s Weekly reported on the formation of a new women's club: the East Kew Women’s Community Club. The article reads: "Wives and mothers in a Melbourne suburb, East Kew, have formed the East Kew Women's Community Club. While babies and young children are under the supervision of a play leader, wives and mothers follow up their own interests. The club caters for varying tastes, has musical appreciation, drama, and "Keep Fit" classes. President Mrs. Grace Thake says that the club hopes soon to have tennis, debating, and discussion groups. The club originated from a debate, "Should women take an active part in social and civic affairs?" Two days later their interest in these matters was proved by the forming of the club, which took for its motto: "To help others, improve ourselves, and foster the community spirit." Membership is open to all women, regardless of age, politics, and religion, and aims to co-operate with all societies working for the improvement of health and cultural standards." The article relates particularly to the plaque in the collection of the Kew Historical Society.The East Kew Women's Community Club, also called the East Kew Women's Community Club functioned from c. 1947 to the end of the 1960s (to be verified). The records of the Club were placed with Kew Historical Society to preserve them for posterity. The records and objects belonging to the East Kew Women's Community Club have significance socially for their capacity to illuminate women's associations in the post war period in Australia.Framed red and gold enamelled plaque belonging to the East Kew Women's Community Club."TO HELP OTHERS / IMPROVE OURSELVES AND / FOSTER THE COMMUNITY SPIRIT"east kew women's social club, community groups -- kew east (vic.)

Height 25 cm, 160 pages, soft cover A soft cover book of 160 pages with black and white photos, newspaper clippings and other illustrations. It includes lists of principals, presidents of school council, house captains, SRC presidents, parents & friends association presidents, women's auxiliary presidents, male and female staff members, and all students who attended the school between 1941 and 1991. There is an extensive list of sources and acknowledgements.non-fictionA history of Camberwell High School from its beginnings in fighting for a school to be built and finally opening for business in 1941. It includes a list of students from 1941-1991. Also a list of female staff and male staff, as well as House Captains, Women's Auxiliary Presidents, Head Prefects, Student Representative Council - Presidents. It also details the School Uniform Policy. It details the growth in the early years, building on the foundations and the modern times, including some troubled years.education and research, secondary schools, school plays, school committees, robert d ewins, camberwell high school, education, camberwell high ex-students society, kylie monogue, elida brereton, robert manne, dannii monogie, brian naylor

A stapled, card-covered, sixty-four-page book with loose card cover.non-fictionSchool yearbook, presenting details of the events and students of Salesian College, Rupertswood, Sunbury.salesian college, rupertswood, sunbury, yearbook, "certantes in vita", 1977

Programme: Bendigo Youth Choir presents ''Das Namensfest'' (The Grandfather's birthday party) by Sussmayr at the Bendigo Art Gallery on Saturday, 10th August, 1985 and Sunday 11th, August, 1985 at 7.00pm. Musical director: Valerie Broad Pianiste: Eileen Hetherington Soloist: Benjamin Fenselau, Luke Gallagher, Traude Beilharz, Marcus Mawby, David Evans, Paul Veitch, Russel Boivard, Jeni Fleay, Natalie Hetherington, Sonya Morrissey, Barnaby Breaden. Grandfather: Kevin Vallence. Choir members: Jane Ash, Holly Beazley, Jillian Boivard, Peter Campbell, Lyndon Carty, Lisette Curnow, Justine Dowdle, Jodi Elliot, Kara Every, Michael Ewart, Rachel Fenselau, Paula Fleay, Kirsten Fletcher, Matthew Garside, Lorinda Grant, Meagan Lee, Glenice McIntyre, Francis Fyffe, Simon Waugh, Janet Phillips, Rebecca Porter, Aleesa Pratt, Elizabeth Reid, Fiona Ritchie, Mary-Teresa Ritchie, Cindy Waugh, Alison Wells, Nicola Wells. Red bow tied to the top of the programme.clubs, music, youth choir

Bendigo Operatic Society ''Oliver'' Capital Theater, view Street Bendigo. Souvenir Programme ot the Society's Twentieth year of Production. For an Eight Night Season Commencing Wednsday, 13th june, 1973. Producer: Max Collis - Musical Director: Gwen Grose - Pianist: Dianna Cohn - Assistant Producer, Wardrobe and Ballet Mistress: Madge Welch - Stage Manager: Malcom Cannon. Cast: Michael Frayne, Mark Edebone as Oliver - Douglas Sayle as Mr. Bumble - Patricia Lyon as Widow Corney (The Matron) - Valerie Griffiths as Old Sally (A Pauper) - Pauline Speedy as A Pauper Woman - Bary Burns as Mr. Soweberry (The Undertaker) - Ann Ball as Mrs. Soweberry (His Wife) - Annette Beckwith as Charlotte (Their Daughter) - Graeme Daws as Noah Claypole (Their Apprentice) - Fred Trewarne as Fagin - Shane Brennan,Bruce Ashman as The Artful Dodger - Kathie Farn as Nancy - Marion Wright as Bet - David Daenke as Bill Sikes - Ray Edebone as Mr. Brownlow - John Beaumont as Dr. Grimwig - Jill James as Mrs. Bedwyn.program, theatre, bendigo operatic society

.1 - Foolscap duplicated sheet with changes marked in red ink and pencil notes along the bottom edge, titled "Christmas Eve - Sunday 24 December 1939 - Special late trams and buses to be run in connection with the choral and musical festival to be held in Alexandra Gardens from 11pm to Midnight". Lists routes, times from terminus, city, and arrive back at the depot. Gives details for both the Southern and Northern systems. Dated 21/11/1939, signed W. Simpson Assistant Manager. .2 - Associated passenger check sheet - completed for St Kilda Road at intersection of City Road - records 10 trams with passenger number - does not give car number. Form No 3/201 - July 1939. .3 - Notice to Conductors and Bus Operators - all depots except Footscray and Clifton Hill dated 21/12/1939 on foolscap duplicated paper, advising crews of the event, minimum fares of 6d, special tickets and completion of revenue journals. signed by S. M. Richardson as Manager (stamped signature).trams, tramways, mmtb, public transport, holiday arrangements, buses, services, christmas, tickets, revenue journal, conductors

Bendigo Operatic Society ''Rio Rita'' Capital theatre Bendigo Commencing 8th July 1964 for four Nights. Producer: Reginald Newson - Musical Director: Max O'Loghlen - Society Pianist: Mrs. Gwen Grose - Asst. Producer & Ballet Mistress: Miss M Welch. Cast in order of Appearance: Peter Ivarsen as Corporal McGinn of the Texas Rangers - Reg. Boromeo as Ranger Wilkins - Jack Werry as Posadero (Landlord of the Mesa Francesca) - Pat Lyon as Carmen (Cabaret Girl) - Wendy Bertram as Lolita (Cabaret Girl) - Fred Trewarne as Ed Lovett (An American Lawyer) - Victor White as Davalos (A local Bad Man) - Graham Filcock as Roberto Ferguson (Brother of Rio Rita) - Peter Houston as General Romero Esteban (Governor of the District) - Pat. McCracken as Rio Rita (A Cabaret Singer) - Annette Beckwith as Dolly(An American Cabaret Girl) - Ferd Lorenz as Chick Bean (An American) - Brian Thomas as Jim Stewart (Captain of the Texas Rangers) - George Steele as Captain Gonzales (Aide to General Esteban) - Joan Crane as Katie Bean (Chick's First Wife).program, theatre, bendigo operatic society

In 1860 Smeaton residents appealed for funds to establish a school. Patrick Curtain, and his co-workers raised more than £150 plus a land grant (Allot A, Sect 2, Township of Smeaton). Head Teacher John Forbes, with assistant Zillah North, opened a timber school building which measured 36ftx18ft (11.0x5.5m) on 1 September 1861 with 44 children. Rising enrolment to 65 in 1868 made building alterations necessary. During 1870-1 a residence of four rooms was supplied and in October 1882 a 20ftx18ft (6.1x5.5m) classroom. In 1907 a new brick building accommodated 122 children. Among notable ex-pupils are Major-General Bridgeford, Frank Wright ( Musical Director of the London County Council), Alex Wright, (AKA singer Andre Navarre), and Les Brooks. (Visions and Realisations). Frank Wright was a renown resident of Smeaton, where he was born in 1901. He lived at Laura Villa, and attended Smeaton State School. His father William was a gold miner and his mother's name was Sarah. He was the youngest of eleven children. Their family won many singing and instrumental awards. Frank was tutored by Percy Code and was awarded a gold medal for the highest marks in the ALCM examinations in the British Colonies at the age of seventeen years. He became the Australian Open Cornet Champion by the age of eighteen. A year later, Frank conducted the City of Ballarat Band, and later the Ballarat Soldiers’ Memorial Band. He formed the Frank Wright Frisco Band and Frank Wright and his Coliseum Orchestra. These bands won many South Street awards, and Frank as conductor won many awards in the Australian Band Championship contest. In 1933 Frank Wright sailed to England to conduct the famous St Hilda’s Band and was appointed in 1934 as the Musical Director of the London County Council (the GLC or Greater London Council), where he organized many amazing concerts in most of the 150 parks, in and around the London district. He was also responsible for some of London’s major concerts at Kenwood, the Crystal Palace and Holland Park. He was made Professor of Brass and Military Band Scoring and Conducting and was a Fellow of the Guildhall School of Music and Drama. Frank was often invited to adjudicate Brass Band Championships around Europe, in Australia, including South Street and in New Zealand. Frank was awarded an M.B.E. in 1967 and he died in November 1970. The Frank Wright Medal at the Royal South Street competition is awarded to an individual recognized as making an outstanding contribution to brass music in Australia.Cream printed certificate with hand written additions.Handwritten additions in caps: This is to Certify that FRANK J.H. WRIGHT has completed satisfactorily the Course of Study prescribed for Elementary Schools. Dated at SMEATON Elementary School, No. 552 this 23RD day of NOV. A.D. 1915 Class-teacher's name: DAVID WALTON Head-teacher's name: DAVID WALTON Robt STEPHENSON Inspector of Schools frank wright, smeaton state school, victorian education department elementary certificate

MABEL nee ABRAHAM ROGERS 1920 - 2004 Publications: The First One Hundred Years 1870-1970 Melton State School No 430 Co Author with Edna Barrie The Mechanics [Melton] 1985 Mabel Abraham was daughter of Herbert G Abraham, Butcher of High Street Melton. She attended Melton State School from 1928 qualifying for her Merit certificate in December 1928 and continued her education at Melbourne Girls High School [soon after known as MacRobertson Girls High School] She studied piano and elocution as a school girl. Mabel was associated with many activities in the Melton community. She was a natural writer and interested in research and was committed to documenting and preserving Meltons History. Mabel produced, wrote and acted for the “ Melton Amateurs” theatrical group established in 1950. The group performed Revues, Pantomimes, one and three act plays, Musical Comedy and Melodramas. In 1960 it lapsed for a time and from 1967 onwards more shows were successfully produced by Mabel. A creative producer and writer, audiences at the Melton Mechanics Institute enjoyed the performances of Gilbert and Sullivan and excerpts from the many Musicals of the era. She skilfully wrote scripts interweaving with songs and topical local dialogue successfully drawing out the talents of all the cast members. Mabel was a member of the C.W.A. holding position of Secretary. She was a member of the Melton and District Historical Society at its inception in 1968 and was a Member of The Willows Committee of Management. She was supporter of the first historical display and the Mechanics Hall and the Historical Society Annual Art and Craft shows from 1974 until 1982. In 1961 she was involved with Melton Development Association and in 1969 with the establishment of the first “Carols by Candlelight” held in Melton. Mabel was a member Anglican Church and Committee. She was a member of the Melton Mechanics Institute and made a Trustee and Life Member in 1965. She was a member of Victoria 150th Anniversary Celebration Committee. She was Guide Leader, member of the Red Cross and School Committee. In November 1982 she was a recipient of the Annual Rotary Community Service Award for outstanding service to the Community of Melton over a prolonged time. Mabel married Eric Rogers in August 1944 the wedding reception was held at the Melton Mechanics Hall. Their are children John, Ron, Francis and Judy. The family lived in High Street Melton between the Mechanics Institute and earliest Shire Hall eastern end. Eric was grader operator on the district roads. In their latter years Mabel and Eric lived in Bacchus Marsh. Eric died in Bacchus Marsh in July 2007. Country Women's Association Melton Branch lyrics from Mabel Roger's handwritten noteslocal identities, local significant groups

Alexander Wright was born on 25 August, 1898 in Smeaton He was the brother of musician Frank Wright. Alex Wright was killed whilst performing at the Birmingham Empire as the result of a German air Attack in October 1940. The theatre had a direct hit. According to Frank Wright Alex was a great impersonator with a unique range Bass - tenor with many accents (not unlike Peter Dawson) "AUSTRALIAN CARUSO Smeaton Boy's Fame Andre Navarre, who left Australia about three years ago to study opera in Europe, bids fair to take a place among the world's great tenors. A few months ago Navarre sang for Melba for the first time, and she immediately acclaimed him to be a finished artist, describing his voice as the nearest approach to the immortal Caruso she had ever heard, writes the Ballarat "Courier." Andre Navarre is, however, only a stage name adopted by Alexander Wright, a son of Mr. and Mrs. William. Wright, of Armstrong street North, Ballarat, and brother of Mr. Frank Wright and Mrs. William Ritchie, of that city. Born at smeaton 31 years ago, in what may be termed a musical atmosphere; Alex. Wright showed a definite desire to sing at a very early age, and in his boyhood figured as soloist at school concerts, etc. His youth was spent around Smeaton, working at home and at various farms in the district until he was about 19 years of age, when he secured a position at the Dunlop rubber works, Melbourne. Up to this period Wright had no vocal training whatever, but being the possessor of a good resonant baritone voice, was persuaded by some of his friends to "have a go at the stage.'' Securing a position in the chorus of "Maid of the Mountains," which was at that time showing at the Theatre Royal, he soon made his voice heard to advantage, and also commenced to take lessons from Signor Robottaro. It was about this time that Wright was invited by a fellow musician to a musical evening at which a member of Rigo's grand opera company, then performing at " The Playhouse," was also present. Hearing Wright sing, the musician immediately said : ' You're a fool to waste your time in a chorus with that voice. Rigo is looking for a singer like you for the role of 'Figaro' in 'Barber of Seville'." Alex, however, did not take the remark seriously, and it was only after the numerous persuasions of friends who obviously knew the real value of his voice that the modest young man was eventually induced to meet Rigo. The Italian maestro was so delighted with the voice that without hesitation he was given the principle role of "The Barber" to study. Many singers having previously been tried and rejected for the part, Wright was astonished at his success in being chosen, and awakened suddenly to the fact by the maestro that a world voice, if properly trained, would surely develop in the young artist, Alex at once settled down to study, and all day long in his boarding house at St. Kilda could be heard rehearsing his new role. In less than a month he had completely mastered the part, and on the opening night, in the exacting role of "The Barber," he was an outstanding success. Later, he toured Australia with many leading artists, including Elsa Stralia and Harry Lauder, and spent his last two years in Sydney, where he was engaged as soloist in the biggest picture house. Realising that a training in Italy and on the Continent was essential for a successful operatic singer, the young artist decided to go overseas to continue his studies. He did not leave Australia, however, before he gratuitously gave a concert in his little home town to the obvious delight of all his old friends, who flocked from all parts of the district to hear him. The hall was packed to overflowing , and so pleased was Alex with the tumultuous reception he received that he sang fewer than 20 songs. Once in Italy, he lost no time in placing himself under the tuition of Cottone, and it was at the studio of this maestro that he met Toti dal Monte, a former protege of the same master. Two years were spent in Italy, when "Navarre" learned to speak the Italian language fluently, and acquired a wide knowledge of the operas. He sang in Milan about a year ago, and was paid some glowing tributes by the Italian Press critics, who likened his voice to that of Caruso. From Italy he went to Paris, where he met John Brownlee and many other famous singers. The critics on the Continent are unanimous that Andre Navarre-the unassuming Smeaton boy, whom his schoolmates still affectionately call "Hock"--is destined to become one of the luminaries in music history. It is interesting to recall some facts concerning the remarkable family from which this artist springs. Four other members have won championship honors in the musical world. Mr. Frank Wright has the Australasian cornet championship to his credit ; Mr. Norman Wright, of Sydney, has won a tenor championship of New Zealand, and has recorded for the Columbia Gramophone Company ; Mrs. Wm. Ritchie ( formerly Miss Laura Wright) won the A.N.A. contralto championship in Melbourne; whilst the oldest member, Lydia (Mrs. C. Cane, now in N.Z.) won the violin championship at South Street when 17 years of age. Last year Mrs. and Mr. Wright celebrated their golden wedding. Both of the old folk are intensely musical, and it has been said that the voice of the mother, although entirely untrained, showed in her earlier days glimpses of the beautiful quality which made Melba famous. Andre Navarre does not propose leaving the Continent for some time. Recently he was offered a 12 months' contract to sing in London for £2500 but on the advice of Melba and his coach, it was refused on the grounds that yet another 12 months' French study was necessary to ensure absolute perfection. That "Alex " has lost none of his school-boy wit is evinced by his own jocular remark that he has "a top C sharp that will crack every window in the Sydney Town Hall!" (Horsham Times, 20 February 1931) "AUSTRALIAN KILLED An Australian, Alexander Wright, radio variety star, who toured Europe and Australia under the pseudonym of Navarre, was killed during a recent air raid in a Midland . town. His broth-er, Frank Wright, is musical director for the London County council."(Border Morning Mail, 22 Oct 1940) Black and white image of Smeaton born Alexander Wright whose professional name was Navarre "Prince of Mimics". alexander wright, alec wright, navarre

Celluloids are a class of compounds created from nitrocellulose and camphor, with added dyes and other agents. Generally considered the first thermoplastic, it was first created as Parkesine in 1856 and as Xylonite in 1869, before being registered as Celluloid in 1870. Celluloid is easily moulded and shaped, and it was first widely used as an ivory replacement. The main use was in movie and photography film industries, which used only celluloid films prior to acetate films that were introduced in the 1950s. Celluloid is highly flammable, difficult and expensive to produce and no longer widely used, although its most common uses today are in table tennis balls, musical instruments and guitar picks. Celluloid was useful for creating cheaper jewellery, jewellery boxes, hair accessories and many items that would earlier have been manufactured from ivory, horn or other expensive animal products. It was often referred to as "Ivorine" or "French Ivory". It was also used for dressing table sets, dolls, picture frames, charms, hat pins, buttons, buckles, stringed instrument parts, accordions, fountain pens, cutlery handles and kitchen items. The main disadvantage the material had was that it was flammable. Items made in celluloid are collectible today and increasingly rare in good condition. It was soon overtaken by Bakelite and Catalin.. A miniature, square, Ivorine hand mirror with bird engraved on back. An accoutrement for use in a lady's Evening bag c 19thCbird engraved on back of mirrormoorabbin, cheltenham, brighton, market gardeners, pioneers early settlers, mirrors, ivorine, celluloids, bakelite, plastics,

A stapled, card-covered, forty-eight-page book with loose card cover. Oil stain bottom right of page 11 and bottom left of p.12.non-fictionSchool yearbook, presenting details of the events and students of Salesian College, Rupertswood, Sunbury.salesian college, rupertswood, sunbury, yearbook, "certantes in vita", 1975

A stapled, card-covered, forty-eight-page book with loose card cover.non-fictionSchool yearbook, presenting details of the events and students of Salesian College, Rupertswood, Sunbury.salesian college, rupertswood, sunbury, yearbook, "certantes in vita", 1976

Bendigo Operatic Society Theatre Programme 'The Desert Song.' Capital Theatre Bendigo October 18th, 19th, 21st 22nd, 23rd and Special Performance 24th, 1957. Arranged by J.C. Williamson Theatres Ltd. Norman Lee Producer. Musical Director Max O' Loghlen. Bendigo Concert Orchestra. Music Sigmund Romberg. Book & Lyrics Otto Harbach, Oscar Hammerstein II, Frank Mandel. Main Cast: Mervyn Penno, Alfred Annison, Max Beckwith, Greta Smyth, Alfred Austin, Brian Thomas, Brian Brewer, Rosalie Spencely, Harry Brewer, Alan Ewart, Adrian Van Dyke, Margaret Rule, Bert Donovan, Barbara McGregor, Coral Shiell, Charles Phillips, Ruth Ennor, Ian Beckwith, Malcolm Cannon, Reg Boromeo. Songs Include: 'High on a Hill', 'The Riff Song', 'Ho, Bold Men of Morocco,' 'Margot', 'I'll Be a Bouyant Girl.' 'Why Did We Marry Soldiers,' 'Romance,' 'The Desert Song,' 'Then You Will Know,' 'Song of the Brass Key,' 'Let Love Go,' 'One Flower in Your Garden,' 'The Sabre Song,' 'Farewell,' 'All Hail the General' and 'Soldier, When the Battle is Over.'Cambridge Press, Bendigo.clubs and associations, theatre, bendigo operatic society, https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/the_desert_song

Ancient Order of Foresters Friendly Society Member's Clearance printed on cream heavy paper with light tan pattern with Ancient Order of Foresters Friendly Society Members Clearance printed on it. There is an emblem at the top of the paper, it has a circular wreath of ribbon and flowers. On the left is a bunch of flowers, a musical instrument on the right and in the centre of the wreath is a boy kneeling and rolling a bundle of tied up stems. The paper is from Court Queen of the West No. 3707 of the Devon & Cornwall District held at the Odd Fellows & Forester's Hall, Penzance in the County of Cornwall. The clearance states that Brother James Hall a single man, now aged 29 years, by trade a Coachman was admitted a Member of the above Court, on the Sixth day of July 1869 and has paid all Dues and Demands up to the 27th day of June 1876. It authorizes any Court to accept the Said Brother as a Clearance Member subject to the conditions. Signed by William W. Richards - Chief Ranger, John A Lames - Sub Chief Ranger, and Charles H. Uren - Secretary. Has a red seal in the bottom left corner. Court Queen of the West 3707 AOF Penzance.societies, aof, correspondence, ancient order of foresters no 3770 collection, ancient order of forresters friendly society member's clearance, saml shawcross, court queen of the west no 3707, james hall, william w richards, john a lames, charles h uren

Frank Wright was a renown resident of Smeaton, where he was born. He lived at Laura Villa, and attended Smeaton State School. His father William was a gold miner and his mother's name was Sarah. Their family won many singing and instrumental awards. Frank was tutored by Percy Code and became the Australian Open Cornet Champion by the age of eighteen. A year later, Frank conducted the City of Ballarat Band, and later the Ballarat Soldiers’ Memorial Band. He formed the Frank Wright Frisco Band and Frank Wright and his Coliseum Orchestra. These bands won many South Street awards, and Frank as conductor won many awards in the Australian Band Championship contest. In 1933 Frank Wright sailed to England to conduct the famous St Hilda’s Band and was later appointed Musical Director of the London County Council, where he organized many amazing concerts in parks, in and around the London district. He was made Professor of Brass and Military Band Scoring and conducted at the Guildhall of Music and Drama. Frank was often invited to adjudicate Brass Band Championships around Europe, in Australia, including South Street and in New Zealand. The Frank Wright Medal at the Royal South Street competition is awarded to an individual recognized as making an outstanding contribution to brass music in Australia..1) black and white photograph of a woman dressed in a dark ankle length dress with a scalloped overskirt, wearing beads around her neck. She is standing on the steps of a cottage "Laura Villa" with a shrub to the left of her. The woman is Laura Wright. .2) black and white photograph of a woman wearing a long dark dress and a white cravat with a brooch, standing of the steps of a cottage. The woman is Sarah Wright and the cottage is "Laura Villa". .3) black and white photograph of a woman wearing a long dark dress and a white cravat with a brooch, standing of the steps of a cottage. The woman is Sarah Wright and the cottage is "Laura Villa"..1) Handwritten on back - Laura Wright, aged 25 years. Taken at Smeaton, January 28th 1922, by Frank Wright .2) Handwritten on back Mrs W. Wright, "Laura Villa" Smeaton. Taken by her son, Frank Wright on January 28th, 1922laura wright, sarah wright, laura villa, frank wright, smeaton

Frank Wright was a renown resident of Smeaton, where he was born. He lived at Laura Villa, and attended Smeaton State School. His father William was a gold miner and his mother's name was Sarah. Their family won many singing and instrumental awards. Frank was tutored by Percy Code and became the Australian Open Cornet Champion by the age of eighteen. A year later, Frank conducted the City of Ballarat Band, and later the Ballarat Soldiers’ Memorial Band. He formed the Frank Wright Frisco Band and Frank Wright and his Coliseum Orchestra. These bands won many South Street awards, and Frank as conductor won many awards in the Australian Band Championship contest. In 1933 Frank Wright sailed to England to conduct the famous St Hilda’s Band and was later appointed Musical Director of the London County Council, where he organized many amazing concerts in parks, in and around the London district. He was made Professor of Brass and Military Band Scoring and conducted at the Guildhall of Music and Drama. Frank was often invited to adjudicate Brass Band Championships around Europe, in Australia, including South Street and in New Zealand. The Frank Wright Medal at the Royal South Street competition is awarded to an individual recognized as making an outstanding contribution to brass music in Australia.Black and white photograph of a man and a woman standing in front of a house. The man is dressed in a band uniform with hat and the woman is dressed in a dark above the ankle length dress. The woman is Laura Wright and the man is Frank Wright. The house is "Dalbrao" at Northcote Hand written on back - Laura Wright 25, Frank Wright 20, "Dalbrae", St Georges Road, Northcote, Melbourne, Taken by Vernon Holt, 9/4/22laura wright, frank wright, dalbrae, vernon holt, cornet, band

Sarah Wright was the mother of Frank Wright who was a renown resident of Smeaton, where he was born. He lived at Laura Villa, and attended Smeaton State School. His father William was a gold miner. Their family won many singing and instrumental awards. Frank was tutored by Percy Code and became the Australian Open Cornet Champion by the age of eighteen. A year later, Frank conducted the City of Ballarat Band, and later the Ballarat Soldiers’ Memorial Band. He formed the Frank Wright Frisco Band and Frank Wright and his Coliseum Orchestra. These bands won many South Street awards, and Frank as conductor won many awards in the Australian Band Championship contest. In 1933 Frank Wright sailed to England to conduct the famous St Hilda’s Band and was later appointed Musical Director of the London County Council, where he organized many amazing concerts in parks, in and around the London district. He was made Professor of Brass and Military Band Scoring and conducted at the Guildhall of Music and Drama. Frank was often invited to adjudicate Brass Band Championships around Europe, in Australia, including South Street and in New Zealand. The Frank Wright Medal at the Royal South Street competition is awarded to an individual recognized as making an outstanding contribution to brass music in Australia.Black and white photograph of a woman in a dark dress and hat and carrying an umbrella. She is standing on a path set within the grounds of the Ballarat Botanical Gardens, with the Statue Pavillion, a statue, shrubs and large trees in the background. The woman is Sarah Wright.sarah wright, frank wright, ballarat botanical gardens, statue pavillion

Frank Wright was a renown resident of Smeaton, where he was born. He lived at Laura Villa, and attended Smeaton State School. His father William was a gold miner and his mother's name was Sarah. Their family won many singing and instrumental awards. Frank was tutored by Percy Code and became the Australian Open Cornet Champion by the age of eighteen. A year later, Frank conducted the City of Ballarat Band, and later the Ballarat Soldiers’ Memorial Band. He formed the Frank Wright Frisco Band and Frank Wright and his Coliseum Orchestra. These bands won many South Street awards, and Frank as conductor won many awards in the Australian Band Championship contest. In 1933 Frank Wright sailed to England to conduct the famous St Hilda’s Band and was later appointed Musical Director of the London County Council, where he organized many amazing concerts in parks, in and around the London district. He was made Professor of Brass and Military Band Scoring and conducted at the Guildhall of Music and Drama. Frank was often invited to adjudicate Brass Band Championships around Europe, in Australia, including South Street and in New Zealand. The Frank Wright Medal at the Royal South Street competition is awarded to an individual recognized as making an outstanding contribution to brass music in Australia.Black and white photograph of a man with one hand in the pocket of his suit trousers, standing before the front porch of a timber house. There is some wrought iron over the entrance to the porch. The man is Frank Wright and the house is at 118 Doveton Street South, Ballarat.Handwritten on the back - Frank Wright, at the age of 19 years taken at 118 Doveton St Sth, Ballarat, by Lin Jenkins, 23-7-1921frank wright, lin jenkins, timber house, wrought iron, ballarat

Alex Wright was the brother ofFrank Wright who was a renown resident of Smeaton. He lived at Laura Villa, and attended Smeaton State School. His father William was a gold miner and his mother's name was Sarah. Their family won many singing and instrumental awards. Frank was tutored by Percy Code and became the Australian Open Cornet Champion by the age of eighteen. A year later, Frank conducted the City of Ballarat Band, and later the Ballarat Soldiers’ Memorial Band. He formed the Frank Wright Frisco Band and Frank Wright and his Coliseum Orchestra. These bands won many South Street awards, and Frank as conductor won many awards in the Australian Band Championship contest. In 1933 Frank Wright sailed to England to conduct the famous St Hilda’s Band and was later appointed Musical Director of the London County Council, where he organized many amazing concerts in parks, in and around the London district. He was made Professor of Brass and Military Band Scoring and conducted at the Guildhall of Music and Drama. Frank was often invited to adjudicate Brass Band Championships around Europe, in Australia, including South Street and in New Zealand. The Frank Wright Medal at the Royal South Street competition is awarded to an individual recognized as making an outstanding contribution to brass music in Australia..1) Black and white photograph of a man and a woman standing in front of a picket fence, with a large tree in the background. The man is wearing a suit and is Frank Wright. The woman is wearing a long dark skirt and long sleeved blouse with a brooch at the neckline. She is his mother Sarah Wright. The man is wearing a suit and is Sarah's son Alex. The picket fence surrounds "Laura Villa". .2) Glass plate for this photographPrinted on the back - Post Card, Kodak Australiafrank wright, sarah wright, picket fence, laura villa, smeaton, cornet