The document highlights the challenges faced by Mandurang South, a small rural school, in the face of government education reforms and potential closure. Mandurang South was considered an easy target for closure under new government 'quality provision' guidelines. Despite demonstrating a strong curriculum and experienced leadership, the school faced severe staffing reductions: from two teachers plus specialist support to just 1.4 teachers for 32 students. This would require one teacher to manage 31 children across seven grades in a single classroom, raising concerns about educational quality. Parents and teachers collaborated intensively to prepare a submission proving the school's quality, hoping to meet government criteria for survival. Some parents, including former students, expressed willingness to close or merge the school if educational standards could not be maintained, while others wanted to keep it open. The school community was holding a referendum to decide its stance for an upcoming taskforce meeting. Mandurang South and its neighboring school, Mandurang Primary, originated from a split in 1875 due to the distances children had to travel. The school has a rich history, with its original weatherboard building and a notable stand of century-old trees, making it a model for rural education and a point of local pride. The most likely option discussed was merging with Mandurang Primary, which would be ironic given their historical split over a century ago.Mandurang South's situation serves as a test case for the broader impact of educational 'rationalisation' policies on small rural schools. Mr. Balmer was Head Teacher in 1875. Heintervened to stop residents from cutting timber on school grounds, preserving a notable stand of eucalypts and conifers.The school grounds are recognized for their natural beauty, attracting visitors and providing students with daily exposure to native wildlife and nature-based activities. The school offers standard facilities (oval, courts, shelter) and unique curriculum elements like "bush cooking," making learning relevant to its rural setting. Mandurang South School is valued at $50,000–$70,000, but faces closure due to economic constraints and potential staff reductions.There is concern that closure could lead to further school consolidations in the Mandurang valley, as part of a broader government education reform. The possible closure is seen as a loss to the community’s heritage and educational landscape, with uncertainty about the future of other local schools.Schools searching for a Future. Series of photos and information about Mandurang Primary School No. 1628. Pictures by Lisa Honeychurch. Written by Owen Davies. This item contains the following documents: 8091.602a Part of Page 11, the Bendigo Advertiser Friday August 13 1993 8091.602b Part of Page 11, the Bendigo Advertiser Friday August 13 1993 8091.602c Black and White Photo of four kids playing cricket on the oval besides the school - Contact BHS for Details 8091.602d Black and White Photo of Grade Four student Gary Wilkins sitting under a pine tree, possibly reading - Contact BHS for Details 8091.602e Black and White Photo of Grade Four students "Bush Cooking" around a camp fire Left to Right: Travis Singe, Tristian Gillies, Gary Wilkins, Bill Riddell - Contact BHS for Details 8091.602f Black and White Photo Front of Mandurang South School - Contact the BHS for Details 8091.602g Black and White Photo Front of Mandurang South School - Contact the BHS for Details 8091.602h Black and White Photo Two men and three kids in front of the school sign. Left to Right: Brian Murdoch, Brian's daughter Ebony, John's son and daughter, Roger and Erin, and John Murdoch - Contact the BHS for Details 8091.602i Black and White Photo of Mrs Bess Coghill, the former Post Mistress at Mandurang South - Contact the BHS for Details 8091.602j Black and White Photo of the school sign - Contact the BHS for Detailsnewspaper, bendigo advertiser, mandurang south, primary school

This document is a personal reflection on life in the small town of Marong. The reasons for living in Marong are described as deeply personal and sometimes hard to define, often tied to a sense of belonging and community.Tess Rule, a long-time resident, expresses genuine affection for Marong and its people, emphasizing the friendliness and strong social ties within the town. The document features a vivid description of Marong's picturesque landscape, including sunsets, Bullock Creek, gum trees, and local wildlife, capturing the town's rural charm. Tess values supporting local businesses and prefers to shop in Marong whenever possible, only traveling to nearby Bendigo for items unavailable locally. Marong is often overlooked by travelers who only see the main highway and intersection, missing the town's true character.Overall, the document conveys a deep appreciation for Marong's community spirit, natural beauty, and the importance of supporting local life. The creek is not permanent, but it is a significant natural feature, especially near the town's sporting grounds. The town is characterized by a strong sense of community and high levels of volunteer involvement, particularly in maintaining sporting grounds and organizing local events. Community members actively participate in fundraising and improvement projects, such as raising money for a new hall and restoring the historic shire hall. The Marong Hotel, built around 1917, is a central landmark and was once one of three hotels in town. The town has a history of gold mining and is located on the edge of the Golden Triangle.The old shire hall is being restored to its original 1908 condition, reflecting pride in local heritage. Marong supports a wide range of sports clubs (footy, tennis, swimming, shooting, riding, trotting, cricket, and more), which are central to community life. The hotel serves as a hub for both locals and travelers, with regulars including sports club members and truck drivers who stop for food. The population is around 580 and growing, as more people move from nearby urban areas. Ongoing development includes new housing and community facilities. The town is a notable stop for interstate truck drivers due to a sharp bend requiring them to slow down, leading to a gathering spot outside the hotel. The presence of palm trees throughout the town is a distinctive feature, with some believed to have spread from the hotel’s original palms.Small Towns With Big Hearts Maiden Gully. Series of photos and information about Marong. Pictures by Peter Hyett. Written by Wayne Gregson. This item contains the following documents newspaper articles and black and white photos: 8091.603a Part of Page 10, the Bendigo Advertiser Wednesday June 30 1993 8091.603b Part of Page 10, the Bendigo Advertiser Wednesday June 30 1993 8091.603c Church in Marong - Contact BHS for details 8091.603d Church in Marong - Contact BHS for details 8091.603e Holy Trinity Church in Marong - Contact BHS for details 8091.603f Former Shire of Marong Hall undergoing renovations - Contact BHS for details 8091.603g Calder Highway sign - Contact the BHS for details 8091.603h Picnic Table and Golf Course - Contact the BHS for details 8091.603i The Marong Hotel - Contact the BHS for details 8091.603j The Marong Hotel and Old Shire Hall from the railway crossing - Contact the BHS for details 8091.603k Rural City of Marong Chief Executive Officer Graeme Elvey inspects the $120,000 Shire of Marong Hall undergoing renovations - Contact BHS for details 8091.603l Rural City of Marong Chief Executive Officer Graeme Elvey inspects the $120,000 Shire of Marong Hall undergoing renovations - Contact BHS for details 8091.603m Truck entering Marong from the Calder Highway - Contact BHS for details 8091.603n The Post Mistress - Contact BHS for details 8091.603o Bar and patrons of the Marong Hotel - Contact BHS for detailsnewspaper, bendigo advertiser, marong

This Article outlines the history, community role, and current challenges facing Muskerry East School, a rural Australian school. The school has existed on the same site since 1878, originally sharing a building with the Methodist church. The current weatherboard building was relocated in 1926 after the closure of Weston school. The school has experienced multiple closures due to low enrolment: from 1902–1922 and 1945–1951. Muskerry East is considered a true "neighborhood school" despite its remote location, with families like the Hicksons, Roulstons, Burkes, and Tuoheys attending for generations. The school serves as the central gathering place for the local farming community, especially for women who rely on school drop-offs and pick-ups for social interaction.It is now the only school remaining in a large area between Heathcote and Elmore, with others having closed. The Directorate of School Education is considering closing the school due to low enrolment (currently 15, projected 16–21), despite community guarantees of future students. Recent policy changes require at least 21 pupils for "non-remote" schools to remain open, putting Muskerry East at risk. The community feels the government has shifted requirements, making it harder for small schools to survive. Parents and community members are actively fighting to keep the school open, emphasizing its importance to local identity and cohesion.There is frustration that bureaucratic decisions may sever long-standing community ties and traditions. Muskerry East School stands as a symbol of rural resilience and community, now threatened by changing educational policies and declining rural populations.Schools searching for a Future. Series of photos and information about Muskeery East Primary School No. 2108. Pictures by Lisa Honeychurch. Written by Owen Davies. This item contains the following documents and Photos: 8091.604a Part of Page 11, the Bendigo Advertiser Friday August 20 1993 8091.604b Black and White Photo. Left to Right: Alma and Ron Hickson, Catherine Hamblin (attended 72 years ago), Beryl Roulston (husband was a student and both children attended the school), Joyce Moroney (student 69 years ago), Nancy Roulston, (Teacher) - Contact the BHS for details 8091.604c Black and White Photo. Left to Right: Beryl Roulston (husband was a student and both children attended the school), Joyce Moroney (student 69 years ago) - Contact the BHS for details 8091.604d Black and White Photo. Centenary Plaque (100 years of the school 9th Dec 1878 - Contact the BHS for details 8091.604e Black and White Photo. Joelene Morrissey (Grade 5) and Linda Hickson (Grade 4) - contact the BHS for details 8091.604f Black and White Photo. Ron Hickson (attended in 1927) and his grand children, L to R: Lauren Tuohey (Grade 4) Rowan Hickson (Grade 2) and Linda Hickson (Grade 5) - contact the BHS for details 8091.604g Black and White Photo. Catherine Hamblin (former pupil 72 years ago, when the school was in the old Methodist Church) - contact the BHS for details 8091.604h Black and White Photo. In the class room on the last day of school for the year 16 Dec 1993 - contact the BHS for details 8091.604i Black and White Photo. In front of the school, pupils, parents and community members - contact the BHS for detailsnewspaper, bendigo advertiser, primary school, muskerry east

Ravenswood was intended to become a functioning town in the 19th century, with land subdivided into house lots, but this development never materialized. The area was originally part of the Alexander Number Two Run (later renamed Ravenswood Run), established in 1838 and covering 118,000 acres. Major Thomas Mitchell explored the area in 1837, naming its prominent features. The first discovery of gold in the Bendigo creek is credited to the wife of Ravenswood's overseer, Mr. Kennedy, in the early 1850s.This discovery contributed to the development of Bendigo and the surrounding region. The Ravenswood homestead was built in 1857 and is a significant Georgian-style building, more typical of Tasmania or eastern New South Wales.It features well-proportioned outbuildings, servants' quarters, and English-influenced gardens.The homestead currently sits on 400 acres of the original land, surrounded by a picturesque landscape of pastures, ancient gums, boulders, creeks, and gullies. For the past 20 years, the Beilharz family has owned and restored the homestead, transforming it into a serene and well-maintained property.The family's efforts have preserved both the building and its unique atmosphere.Community and ArchitectureUnlike other large homesteads in Victoria's Western District, Ravenswood Homestead was built for style and comfort, not as a working hub; work buildings like shearing sheds were located far from the main house. The homestead is physically and socially separated from the nearby township, lacking the close relationship often seen between English manor houses and their villages. Ravenswood Homestead stands as a historically significant site, notable for its architecture, landscape, and role in the early gold discoveries that shaped the Bendigo region. Ravenswood Pub (Junction Hotel) is located near the Calder Highway, the pub is a well-known spot for travellers and the motorcycle community. Recently rebuilt and managed by Stewart and Debbie Crowther, who previously worked in sales management in Bendigo. The Crowthers transformed the pub into a welcoming, family-oriented venue by removing restrictive rules for children and adding a play area and secure garden. Their approach was motivated by their own experience as parents and the needs of traveling families. The pub enjoys strong support from local residents, in addition to serving travellers. The nearest general store or milk bar is eight kilometers away, so the pub has tried to fill this gap by offering take-away food. The pub's freehold owner (an oil company) plans to build a petrol and convenience store next door, which would address the community's need for local services. There is no set timeline, but locals are optimistic about the positive impact. Ravenswood has lost several key amenities over the years, including its service station, railway station, school, and church. However, there is renewed growth, with new homes being built and anticipation that new businesses will help revitalize the area.Small Towns With Big Hearts Ravenswood. Series of photos and information about Ravenswood. Pictures by Peter Hyett. Written by Wayne Gregson. This item contains the following documents newspaper articles and black and white photos: 8091.605a Part of Page 30, the Bendigo Advertiser Weds Nov 03 1993 8091.605b Part of Page 30, the Bendigo Advertiser Wednesday Nov 03 1993 8091.605c Black and White Photo Man seated on the verandah of The Ravenswood homestead - Contact BHS for Details 8091.605d Black and White Photo of a house with the granite hill country behind - Contact BHS for Details 8091.605e Black and White Photo of the Ravenswood Homestead - Contact BHS for Details 8091.605f Black and White Photo of the Calder Highway at Ravenswood - Contact BHS for Details 8091.605g Black and White Photo of the Calder Highway sign at Ravenswood - Contact BHS for Details 8091.605h Black and White Photo of a Woman and a Man at the Junction Hotel at Ravenswood - Contact BHS for Detailsnewspaper, bendigo advertiser, ravenswood

Raywood is portrayed as a close-knit, self-reliant rural community where local businesses and residents play a central role in sustaining town life. Residents take initiative, such as managing the swimming pool access themselves and seeking new financial services after the local bank agency closed. Local businesses adapt to challenges, like the butcher expanding to home deliveries to stay afloat. The butcher's shop, pub, general store, and newsagency are central to daily life and social interaction.Business owners, such as Ron the butcher and Stewie the shopkeeper, are deeply invested in the town's survival and continuity. The closure of the Commonwealth Bank agency was met with community resolve to prove their independence. Young people increasingly spend money outside town, posing a challenge to local commerce. Government costs and changing economic conditions have impacted local employment and services. Residents participate in school councils, volunteer firefighting, and community organizations. The town school remains a focal point, with about 80 pupils and hopes to avoid closure or change. Despite hardships, such as floods and fires, residents like Dennis and Jill O'Gorman (publicans) and the Neate family remain committed to Raywood.Long-term residents, like Stewie, emphasize the importance of keeping both their businesses and the town alive. Raywood's story highlights the importance of local initiative, adaptability, and strong community ties in maintaining rural town life. Northern United Football Club won four consecutive premierships, but some locals feel these victories were tainted because the club paid high prices to attract top players from Bendigo.When the financial support ended, these players left, leaving the club without a strong foundation or new local talent. The club struggled after the departure of paid players, lacking reliable and affordable local players. A drought period followed, with Northern United going two years without a win. The club recently celebrated a rare victory, only its second in two-and-a-half years, which brought great joy to the community. The town now values these hard-earned wins more than the earlier, expensive premierships.Small Towns With Big Hearts Ravenswood. Series of photos and information about Raywood. Pictures by Peter Hyett. Written by Wayne Gregson. This item contains the following documents newspaper articles and black and white photos: 8091.606a Part of Page 22, the Bendigo Advertiser Weds Nov 03 1993 8091.606b Part of Page 22, the Bendigo Advertiser Wednesday Nov 03 1993 8091.606c Black and White Photo of Ron the Butcher - Contact BHS for Details 8091.606d Black and White Photo of Beverley Neale, the Post Mistriss - Contact BHS for Details 8091.606e Black and White Elevated view of Raywood and countryside - Contact BHS for Details 8091.606f Black and White General Store and Town Hall - Contact BHS for Details 8091.606g Black and White Photo of Sign Posts - Contact BHS for Details 8091.606h Black and White Photo of Stewie McGregor Store-keeper - Contact BHS for Details 8091.606i Black and White Photo of Dennis and Jill O'Gorman Publicans of the Raywood Hotel - Contact BHS for Details 8091.606j Black and White Photo of an old cart behind a fence - Contact BHS for Detailsnewspaper, bendigo advertiser, raywood

Timor Primary School (No. 1207) was established in 1873 in a former gold-mining town in Victoria. The area once had a population of around 7,000 during the gold rush, but is now sparsely populated. The original schoolhouse, built in 1879-80, was a grand structure designed for large numbers of students (up to 490 at one time). The local Grand Duke mine, which operated until 1896, played a significant role in the town's history and left a physical legacy near the school.In 1983, the school began managing a four-hectare block of land opposite the school, previously damaged by mining, as an 'environment block.' By 1988, the school was officially appointed custodian of this land, now called the Timor Primary School and Community Education and Environment Reserve. The school and community have improved the reserve by installing rabbit-proof fencing, building a bridge, creating paths, adding water, installing a fitness track, and planting many trees. The reserve has become a focal point for both the school’s 26 pupils and the wider community. Timor Primary School won the Australia Trust for Conservation Volunteers-ANZ Bank Environment Improvement Competition in 1986 and received praise for its achievements and community pride. The school has also received two ANA awards for its well-maintained garden. The school has faced challenges related to its small size and has been involved in a taskforce with neighboring schools to address these issues. The local community is strongly opposed to the possible closure of the school, with visible signs of protest throughout the town. Residents, including business owners like Chris Frahn, emphasize the school's importance to the town's vitality and express concerns that closure could lead to families moving away. The school's future is uncertain, with 28 pupils expected next year. If two more students enroll, the school would qualify for a second teacher. Enrollment is projected to increase over the next five years, suggesting potential for growth. The school has gained support from larger schools and the broader community. The final decision on the school's fate will be announced by the Education Minister on October 4, following a taskforce review. The school has a 120-year history in Timor. There is mention of possible renewed gold-mining activity in the area, which could impact the town's future and potentially increase the school-age population.Schools searching for a Future. Series of photos and information about Timor Primary School No. 1207. Pictures by Lisa Honeychurch. Written by Owen Davies. This item contains the following documents and Photos: 8091.607a Part of Page 11, the Bendigo Advertiser Friday Sept 10 1993 8091.607b Part of Page 11, the Bendigo Advertiser Friday Sept 10 1993 8091.607c Black and White Photo of Prep pupils - Contact BHS for details 8091.607d Black and White Photo of Hilda (Teacher) - Contact BHS for details 8091.607e Black and White Photo - front is Bev Walker - Contact BHS for details 8091.607f Black and White Photo - Students playing on fallen down tree - Contact BHS for details 8091.607g Black and White Photo - School Steeple - Contact BHS for details 8091.607h Black and White Photo -Timor School Sign - Contact BHS for details 8091.607i Black and White Photo - Students playing on fallen down tree - Contact BHS for details 8091.607j Black and White Photo - School from the front - Contact BHS for details 8091.607k Black and White Photo - Part of School and three kids playing basketball - Contact BHS for detailsnewspaper, bendigo advertiser, primary school, timor primary school

Toolleen was once planned for about 100 homes but now has only 10 or 11 houses. The town is described as tranquil but somewhat melancholic due to its reduced population and closed school. The old school, closed for over two years, stands as a symbol of the town's past, with a 1909 bell and a time capsule to be opened in 2034.The schoolyard and classroom remain, though vandalized and unused. Toolleen is situated at a crossroads, making it feel peripheral—at the edge of federal and state electorates, the shire, and even police districts. Residents face inconveniences such as being in the wrong police district, requiring long-distance calls for assistance. Despite decline, Toolleen maintains a sense of contentment, with a pub, general store/post office, and a renowned football ground. The town's farming base and modest expectations contribute to its stability compared to other declining hamlets. Toolleen's layout stems from the 1893 Settlement Act, which aimed to help people become self-sufficient during Victoria's depression.The Plough Inn (the local pub) has been central since the 1860s, rebuilt in 1905, and historically linked to the Spiers family.Recent Revitalization Efforts. The pub, now run by Col and Suzanne Munro, has been restored, attracting both locals and travelers. The Mount Pleasant Football Club remains a key social hub, reinforcing community bonds. The local club is a central hub, hosting regular social gatherings and planning events like a club ball. Sporting activities, especially football, are significant, with local teams performing well and the grand final being a major event. The Mount Pleasant footy ground and associated facilities are notable community assets. The general store and post office, run by Bernard and Donna Linnett, serve as important services for the area’s 75 families. A large, modern turkey farm operated by Teville Tranter is the district’s biggest employer, supplying Melbourne restaurants. Entrepreneurial activity includes Terry Tuohey’s firewood business, which processes and sells red gum logs to Melbourne, demonstrating local value-adding. Residents appreciate the quiet, supportive lifestyle, with newcomers like the Linnetts choosing Toolleen for its community feel. The Tuohey family is prominent in the area, contributing to the town’s close-knit atmosphere and support network.Small Towns With Big Hearts Tooleen. Series of photos and information about Tooleen. Pictures by Peter Hyett. Written by Wayne Gregson. This item contains the following documents newspaper articles and black and white photos: 8091.608a Part of Page 19, the Bendigo Advertiser Aug 04 1993 8091.608b Part of Page 19, the Bendigo Advertiser Aug 04 1993 8091.608c Black and White Photo of Campervan approaching Tooleen - Contact BHS for Details 8091.608d Black and White Photo of Terry Tuohey’s and his firewood business, which processes and sells red gum logs to Melbourne - Contact BHS for Details 8091.608e Black and White Photo of the Tooleen Hotel - Contact BHS for Details 8091.608f Black and White Photo of the Tooleen Hotel - Contact BHS for Details 8091.608g Black and White Photo of man on the verandah of the General Store - Contact BHS for Details 8091.608h Black and White Photo of Road Patrol and workers - Contact BHS for Details 8091.608i Black and White Photo of the Tooleen Primary School and Bell out the front - Contact BHS for Details 8091.608j Black and White Photo of paddocks and dam - Contact BHS for Details 8091.608k Black and White Photo of man on the verandah of the General Store - Contact BHS for Details 8091.608l Black and White Photo of truck on the road at Tooleen - Contact BHS for Details 8091.608m Black and White Photo of paddocks and hills at Tooleen - Contact BHS for Details 8091.608n Black and White Photo of road signs and Neighbourhood Watch - Contact BHS for Details 8091.608o Black and White Photo of church - Contact BHS for Details 8091.608p Black and White Photo of Football Ground and Club Rooms - Contact BHS for Details 8091.608q Black and White Photo and newspaper article: Terry Tuohey and his partners harvest fallen red gum timber from local creeks and floodways.The timber is processed and transported to Melbourne, where it is bagged into 13-kilogram lots. Each bag of timber is sold for $5.30 at various outlets. A tonne of Toolleen wood retails for $407.70, reflecting the value-added approach. The Tuohey family has deep roots in Toolleen, contributing to the local economy and community identity. 8091.608r Black and White Photo of the bar of the pub with possibly Suzanne Munro behind - Contact BHS for Details 8091.608s Black and White Photo of a dog in the middle of the road with traffic approaching - Contact BHS for Details 8091.608t Black and White Photo of a dog in the middle of the road with traffic approaching - Contact BHS for Details 8091.608u Black and White Photo of Terry Tuohey’s and his firewood business, which processes and sells red gum logs to Melbourne - Contact BHS for Details 8091.608u Black and White Photo of van and paddocks along the road - Contact BHS for Details 8091.608v Black and White Photo of Football Ground and Club Rooms - Contact BHS for Detailsnewspaper, bendigo advertiser, tooleen

11217.16a Letter to the Editor from Terry Davidson, Villa Fortuna Action Group The Villa Fortuna Action Group emphasizes a community-led, multi-use proposal for the Fortuna site, rather than limiting it to a single purpose like an artists' retreat. The group encourages patience, open-mindedness, and a belief that ambitious outcomes are achievable. Fortuna is recognized as significant on a national level. Bendigo city councillors have visited the site and found it to be in surprisingly good condition. The Commonwealth Government, through the Defence Department, is committed to preserving the site's heritage and will undertake comprehensive works before transferring ownership. The document advocates for staged development and initial seed funding, noting these are proven methods for achieving significant community projects.Economic viability is considered possible, referencing the successful example of Abbotsford Convent. The group cautions against dismissing community ideas as unrealistic or too costly without proper consideration.The importance of being patient and receptive to diverse ideas is highlighted as essential for the site's future. 11217.16b Letter to the Editor from Brenda Stevens-Chambers, Kyneton Suggests the federal government should transfer ownership of Fortuna to the people of Bendigo as a cultural gesture. Notes that the building is reportedly run down, implying the government should take responsibility for its restoration before gifting. Opposition to Medical UseExpresses a preference against converting Fortuna into a medical establishment. Emphasizes the desire to see Fortuna and its grounds opened to the public as a cultural and recreational space, reflecting personal and community aspirations. 11217.16c Letter to the Editor from Beverley Carter, Bendigo Fortuna Villa is recognized as a significant property in Bendigo. The restoration and ongoing maintenance of Fortuna Villa will require a substantial financial investment.Potential. There is an implication that, with proper restoration, Fortuna Villa could become highly valuable or a "goldmine" once again. Restoring and maintaining historic properties like Fortuna Villa is costly but enriches community life by preserving connections to the past. The City of Greater Bendigo has the opportunity to add Fortuna Villa to its portfolio of iconic buildings. There is strong community support for keeping Fortuna Villa in public ownership. Any future use must be financially viable to ensure long-term sustainability. Two main proposals have emerged: A health facility, supported by Cr Kevin Gibbins. A community arts complex, proposed by the Villa Fortuna Action Group. Some stakeholders, such as Mr. Carter, believe the arts centre idea is unrealistic.Evaluation of ProposalsWhile a health facility would benefit Bendigo, it could be purpose-built elsewhere and may not leverage Fortuna Villa's unique appeal. 11217.16d Letter to the Editor from Simon Mulqueen, Quarry Hill The author strongly advocates for Fortuna's preservation, highlighting its significance to the city and reinforcing the need for ongoing protection efforts. The use of Fortuna Villa must not burden the community or compromise its heritage value. Any development should be sustainable, practical, and non-destructive to the Villa's historic character. Suggests selling the current municipal offices and using the proceeds to build a new facility adjacent to Fortuna Villa. This would allow for the creation of an integrated civic precinct, including new council offices, adequate parking, and maintained gardens. Emphasizes the need for vision, commitment, and cooperation among council, community members, and state and federal governments.Advocates for broad community involvement to ensure the success of the project.Role of Fortuna Villa. Envisions the Villa being managed as a community facility, hosting council and community functions, exhibitions, and attracting visitors. Stresses that Fortuna Villa should be developed and managed as a national heritage icon for the benefit of the city.Fortuna should be multi-use Article - The Bendigo Weekly Friday Aug 01 2008 This item contains the following: 11217.16a Letter to the Editor from Terry Davidson, Villa Fortuna Action Group 11217.16b Letter to the Editor from Brenda Stevens-Chambers, Kyneton 11217.16c Letter to the Editor from Beverley Carter, Bendigo 11217.16d Letter to the Editor from Simon Mulqueen, Quarry Hillnon-fictionbendigo, fortuna, george lansell

This document details the recent relocation of the Defence Imagery Geospatial Organisation (DIGO) from Fortuna Villa in Golden Square to a new facility in Longlea. DIGO has vacated Fortuna Villa after 66 years and moved to a new headquarters at Atlas Road, Longlea.The move was completed recently, with staff farewelling the old site and removal trucks seen transporting items. The official opening of the Longlea facility is scheduled for early November, with celebrations to honor Fortuna Villa's legacy. Army surveyors originally moved into Fortuna Villa in 1942, and the Department of Defence has occupied the property since then. The property is now in higher demand, and its future use is under local discussion.The Villa Fortuna Action Group is preparing a proposal for the City of Greater Bendigo to develop the site into an arts and cultural precinct. The group has been in contact with the Department of Defence regarding a public open day, expected in late October or November.Security ArrangementsFortuna Article - "Moves afoot at Fortuna" - The Bendigo Miner Thursday Oct 02 2008 by Nino Bucci This item contains the following: 11217.18a Part of page - Article Fortuna - "Moves afoot at Fortuna"non-fictionbendigo, fortuna, george lansell, defence imagery geospatial organisation (digo)

The Defence Department is opening Fortuna Villa to the public on Saturday as part of a community consultation process before its sale.This provides a rare opportunity for locals to visit one of Bendigo's most iconic properties, formerly home to mining magnate George Lansell. Federal Member for Bendigo, Steve Gibbons, encourages the community to visit and learn about the villa's history and potential future uses.The Villa Fortuna Action Group expects a large turnout and welcomes the opportunity, though they note the limited visiting time. Visitors can take a self-guided tour along a designated route to view significant elements of the villa. Some areas will be restricted due to safety hazards, and not all grounds will be accessible.The villa is located at 22-48 Chum Street, open from 9:30am to 3:30pm, with last entry to the grounds before 3pm.On-site parking is limited, and disabled access is not guaranteed.Fortuna Article - "Explore Fortuna" - The Bendigo Miner Thursday Dec 04 2008 by Nino Bucci This item contains the following: 11217.22a Part of page 7 - Article "Explore Fortuna"non-fictionbendigo, fortuna, george lansell, villa fortuna action group