When the Commonwealth Post and Telegraph Act was passed in June 1902, and a national Postmaster General's Department (the PMG) was established and the responsibility for the nation's mail and telephone services fell on Post Offices. The Bendigo Post Office, built in 1887 and situated on Pall Mall was the central distribution centre for receiving and delivering telegrams and continued to deliver communication and postal services until 1997. This stamped, addressed Commemorative Pictorial Postmark envelope celebrates the 1951 Bendigo Gold Centenary Philatelic Exhibition. Registered, postmarked 02 July 1951. Printed and stamped envelope featuring an image of a poppet head on the left and four commemorative stamps celebrating 100 years of gold top right. Letter is addressed.Obverse Top left; $30 Centre top and bottom; various pencil markings Lower right; T. Clark / 5 Princes St / Oakleigh s.12 / Vic Reverse- Two red pencil lines Centre - postal stamps bendigo post office, bendigo tourism, city of greater bendigo tourism, post office collection, making a nation exhibition

When the Commonwealth Post and Telegraph Act was passed in June 1902, and a national Postmaster General's Department (the PMG) was established the responsibility the nation's mail and telephone services fell on local Post Offices. The Bendigo Post Office was designed by Public Works architect George W Watson and constructed between 1883 and 1887. The two story brick structure with basement has unpainted rendered facades and a 43m high clock tower complete with 6 bell carillon. The facades are elaborately decorated with Corinthian pilasters, balustrading, lions' heads and the state mansard roof with cast iron ridging and finials. (VHR #4739). Situated on Pall Mall it has always been called the Bendigo Post Office even though it was not until 1891 that the name Bendigo was given to the town. The Bendigo Post Office housed much more than just postal services and the building contained many early government departments and services needed for a growing district. The building celebrated its centenary on the 30th September 1987 to much fan fare with Ted Rankins, the then Postal Manager planning many of the week long events including tours of the post office, a grand parade with cake and staff in period costume, a ball at the Shamrock and a barbeque in Rosalind Park. The Post Office ceased providing postal services in 1997 after the privitisation Australia Post and Telstra but continues to play a central role for the community, providing important services to visitors and locals alike. Currently it is occupied by Bendigo Tourism and includes two exhibition spaces including the Living Arts Space and Djaa Djuwima a dedicated and permanent First Nations Gallery. Activities at the Post Office are supported by City of Greater Bendigo staff and a dedicated group of volunteers. These items are part of the postal collection donated by the Rankins family in memory of the last postal manager at the Bendigo Post Office, Ted Rankins. 0364.1: Single sided printed 'Order of Proceedings' flyer; Outlines the running of events for the celebrations on Wednesday 30 September, 1987 at the Post Office with the centenary logo centre top in crimson ink. 0364.2: Single sided, four-colour printed, DL size invitation for celebrations marking the centenary of the Post Office on Wednesday 30 September, 1987. 0364.3,.4,.5,.6,.7: Printed cake bag with centenary logo and image of Bendigo Post Office printed on front in crimson ink. 0364.8,.9,.10,.11: Square note paper with centenary logo and border printed in crimson ink. 0364.12 Envelope: Australia Post envelope with Bendigo 100th anniversary images. Date stamped and addressed to Mr Edmondston Postmaster, Elmore. bendigo post office, bendigo tourism, city of greater bendigo tourism, post office collection, ted rankins collection, city of greater bendigo volunteers

The RDNS Sisters are both holding the 1st day Cover Envelope issued by the Australian Postal Department in 1985 to commemorate the founding of the Melbourne District Nursing Society on the 17th of February 1885. A stamp is in the right hand top corner of the envelope. The main body of the stamp is pale blue. On the top of the stamp, written in deeper blue/grey, are the words "Centenary of District Nursing Services 1985" Below this, and to the right, is a pale bone colour original sign on a metal fence which reads, in white capital letters, "Melbourne District Nursing Society" Standing on the left in the foreground is a MDNS Trained nurse (Nurse) in her long grey uniform frock with white collar, cuffs and belt. She is wearing a grey helmet style hat which has a white hat band with a red Maltese cross in the centre. Her black shoes can also be seen. She is holding a bicycle; only the front wheel and part of the frame and the handlebars, which have a brown nursing bag strapped to them, can be seen, The nursing bag and handlebars cover part of the MDNS sign. At the bottom of the stamp, on a strip of white background, are the words in capital letters "Australia 33c". Below the stamp is a rectangular1st mark. On the left half of the envelope are some sketches of several two storey buildings either side of a set of steps. Some adults and children are standing on the steps as well as in the foreground; some are sketched and others dressed in various coloured clothing. In the foreground right in front of steps, stands a lady with her hair drawn up and wearing along grey frock and white apron; partly seen against her right side is a small child dressed in brown. Sister Willie Fleming is the Supervisor of the RDNS Sunshine Centre and Sister Phillipa Kariko is Supervisor of Essendon Centre. They are wearing their RDNS uniforms of white short sleeve blouses under royal blue V neck tunic style frocks. The RDNS insignia is round and has royal blue writing on a white background. In Melbourne in 1885 it was recognized that skilled nursing was needed to care for the sick poor in their own homes. On the 17th of February a meeting was held with prominent Melbourne citizens, five gentlemen and fourteen ladies. ‘Dr. Caffyn and Rev. Charles Strong explained the objects and scope of District Nursing Societies that had been formed in towns in UK’. On that day the Melbourne District Nursing Society (MDNS) was founded, the first District Nursing Service in Australia. Subsequent meetings were held to form a Committee and to draw up a Code of Rules of the Society. It was decided only nurses who had attended a Nurses Training School at a Hospital and were fully qualified would be employed by the Society, and that the Nurses would keep a daily journal of their work. After interviewing several candidates, the first Nurse, Mrs. Ferguson, was employed with a salary of £100 per annum and commenced work on the 1st of May 1885. She was employed for three months initially, but this was soon extended, “on the understanding she will make arrangements to live in the more immediate vicinity of her district”. A Doctor was consulted before any person was seen. In rotation, a member of the Superintendence Sub-Committee supervised the Nurse’s visits and could assist to alleviate some of the poor social conditions they found. Though only Trained nurses were employed, the term ’Nurse’ was used in those days, not the term ‘Sister’ that is used these days. A second Trained nurse, Mrs. Joanna Cannon, was employed in late 1885, with a trial period of six months which was extended. The two Nurses worked in the now CBD, ie from Spencer Street to Spring Street and from Victoria Parade to Flinders Street. At that time they walked the streets and lane ways amid the slums of inner Melbourne carrying their nursing bags containing lotion, ointments, powders, liniment, bandages, dressings, a case of spirits, and the Nurse's own clean apron, soap and small towel. They supplied equipment on loan, such as earthenware hot water bottles, splints, urinals, bed pans, bed cradles, feeding mugs, and air-cushions as well as providing blankets and clean bed linen, and nightdresses as necessary. From its inception the Society was at the forefront of health care and liaised with Doctors. They provided high quality nursing care to a range of people, often in destitute situations, some lying on rags on the floor as they had no bed, others with just a bed and maybe a thin blanket, a chair and nothing else. Their ages ranged from babes, children, adults to the elderly. The Nurses gave medications as ordered, dressed wounds e.g. to the injured, and surgical cases, and to those with leg ulcers; attended to patients with ‘surgical ailments’ such as ‘hip disease’; gave care to those with acute illnesses such as bronchitis, pleurisy, pneumonia, measles, and scarlet fever, as well as those with chronic illnesses such as consumption (tuberculosis), heart disease, arthritis, cancer, debility, neuritis and paralysis. They educated their patients, and their carers, in the curing and prevention of disease; teaching the importance of hygiene, cleanliness, ventilation and good nutrition. They taught them, by verbal instruction and demonstration, how to make poultices, to make and apply bandages, apply medical appliances such as splints; and the Nurses supplied milk, beef tea and they cooked soup when needed. As the work increased a third Nurse was employed but this was arduous work, particularly in the heat of summer and many Nurses only remained with the Society for several months. A Midwifery Service commenced in August 1893 with Nurse Fowler the first trained Midwife. She had previously worked with the Society carrying out General nursing. The Society expanded its areas using public transport and with the Society purchasing bicycles in 1903, before procuring its first cars to cope with the influx of patients during the Spanish influenza epidemic in 1919, though these were sold in 1927 due to their poor condition..A Motor Auxiliary was formed in 1929 to take Sisters to patients, and some Sisters used their own cars; even a motorcycle was used by one Sister in 1933. All these forms of transport were intermingled and in the early 1950s, and now as Melbourne District Nursing Service, seven Ford Prefect cars were bought followed by twelve Ford Anglia vehicles in 1955. Having received Royal patronage; the now Royal District Nursing Service (RDNS) had its own fleet of Holden vehicles by the mid 1960s and the Motor Auxiliary ceased operating in 1971 as by then all staff employed were required to have a driving licence. Seat-belts had been introduced to Victoria in 1959 and District fitted them to their cars from 1962, even though they did not become compulsory until 1970. The Holden vehicles were replaced with grey Holden Torana vehicles. After several years the fleet was changed to white Toyota Corolla vehicles. The Melways Directory of maps was introduced in 1966, which was a boon to the Sisters, though it was a few years before it went beyond Seville, so a large paper map was used by the Sisters visiting patients in the areas passed Seville. By 2009 there were 598 cars in the fleet and the Sisters travelled 9 million 200,000 kilometres – this is equivalent to 12 trips to the moon and back. Over its years of expansion the RDNS Trained nurses (Sisters), continued to visit patients in their homes and gave best practice care in many fields of nursing, and to people of many cultures. Initial visits not only assessed the specific nursing situation but the situation as a whole. Their patients ranged in age from babes, children, adults to the elderly and referrals were taken from Hospitals, General Practitioners and allied Health facilities. Some of the care the Sisters provided is as follows: – Post-Natal care given to mother and babe, Wound Care following various types of surgery, accidents, burns, cancer, leg ulcers etc. Supervising and teaching Diabetic Care, including teaching and supervising people with Diabetes to administer their own Insulin, and administering Insulin to those unable to give their own injections. Administering other injections and setting up weekly medication boxes. The Sisters performed Catheterizations on adults suffering from conditions such as Quadriplegia, Paraplegia, Multiple Sclerosis (MS), Motor Neurone Disease (MND) and Guillan-Barre Syndrome, and when required at school on children for e.g. those with Spina Bifida. The Sisters visited those requiring Cystic Fibrosis support and care; those requiring Haemo-Oncology care, including visiting children at school; those requiring Home Enteral Feeding care, and those requiring IV therapy at home and home Dialysis. Palliative Care was given including pain relief with the use of syringe drivers, personal care as needed, and advice and support to both patient and family. The Sisters provided Stoma management to those needing Urostomy, Ileostomy and Colostomy care and those requiring Continence care. HIV/AIDS nursing care was provided; visits to Homeless Persons were made. Personal care was given to patients ranging in age and with varying mobility problems, such as Amputees, those with MS, MND, Guillan-Barre Syndrome, Poliomyelitis, Quadriplegia, Paraplegia, Acquired Brain Injury, to those following a Cerebrovascular Accident (Stroke), those with severe Arthritis and those with a form of Dementia. When necessary the elderly were assisted with personal care and advice given on safety factors with the use of hand rails, bath or shower seats, and hand showers. Rehabilitation with an aim towards independence remained at the forefront of the Sister’s minds and when possible using aids and instruction on safe techniques enabled the person to become fully independent. All care included giving advice and support to the patient and their Carers. The Sisters liaised with the persons Doctor, Hospital and allied Health personal when necessary. On the left of the black and white photograph is Royal District Nursing Service (RDNS), Sister Willie Fleming, who has curly blonde hair, and on the right, Sister Phillipa Kariko, who has short dark hair. They are standing outside Essendon RDNS Centre.. They are both wearing their RDNS summer uniform of dark V neck tunic style frocks, with emblazoned RDNS insignia on its upper left, over short sleeve white blouses, Each are holding an envelope with writing, sketched buildings and figures on the envelopes left side, and a stamp is on the upper right corner. Below the stamp is writing in a rectangle. Behind the Sisters is a brick wall with them hiding some of the white capital letters of the words 'District Nursing Service' and 'Essendon Centre'. Windows and part of the fascia of the building is seen behind this.Handwritten informationmelbourne district nursing society, melbourne district nursing service, mdns, royal district nursing service, rdns, rdns centre, sister willie fleming, sister phillipa kariko, rdns 1st day cover centenary envelope

The Answer is a newsletter in magazine format that is sent to the widows that are helped by Melbourne Legacy. For the widows who are sight impaired a copy of the newsletter is audio described onto CD by Vision Australia and posted to them. It contains information about meetings and activities. This edition contained articles on the ANZAC Day student commemoration, Anglsea camp, and milestone birthdays for widows. Plus the event that announced the Centenary Torch Relay. Also photos of our programs such as the walking group, the stamp ladies, and widows club gatherings.A record that Melbourne Legacy helps coordinate and organise events and activities for the widows, and provides items of interest for their enjoyment.Compact disc x 2 in a case that contains the audio recording of The Answer from June/July 2022.activities, answer, widows

The Answer is a newsletter in magazine format that is sent to the widows that are helped by Melbourne Legacy. For the widows who are sight impaired a copy of the newsletter is audio described onto CD by Vision Australia and posted to them. It contains information about meetings and activities. This edition contained articles on the VVFS regional launch, a VLO update, Youth Camps, a paddleboat fundraiser being organised, and photos of Legacy Week 2022. Also a reflection on the battle of Pozieres where the Centenary Torch Relay will start in April 2023. Also photos of our programs such as the walking group, the stamp ladies, and widows club gatherings.A record that Melbourne Legacy helps coordinate and organise events and activities for the widows, and provides items of interest for their enjoyment.Compact disc x 2 in a case that contains the audio recording of The Answer from June/July 2022.activities, answer, widows

SUMMARY - Edna (Myers) Barrie, 1918 – 2018, Profile Early Life Edna was born at Melton and delivered by Hannah Watts. Her mother Martha walked in the dark at night with her basket under her arm to the bridge over the Toolern Creek Bridge and into Sherwin Street to the corner of Yuille Street to Hannah’s house Lynch Cottage. Martha’s husband was away shearing and eventually heard the news of the birth of their blue eyed third child and second daughter. She was born into a family that was surrounded by music; her father played the “squeeze box” and mother the mouth organ. From an early age the family were aware of the great composers, a framed picture of Beethoven, Chopin, Schubert and Wagner hung above the door to the lounge room of their 4 roomed cottage, the room where the piano stood. Her life on stage started as a singer aged 6 years at the Melton Mechanics Institute Hall. Edna was born with a natural ear for music learning piano and singing from her older sister Marjorie who became an accomplished pianist and soloist and renowned music teacher in Melton and district. In the 1920s and 1930s concerts at the Melton Mechanics Institute were regular events were the local talent was fostered. The Myers children, like other children of Melton and Rockbank, studied singing, piano and elocution, sat examinations, entered in competitions in South Street Ballarat, Footscray and Melbourne. In 1929 a Sacred Concert was broadcast by 3AR from the Hall as part of the Back to Melton Celebrations. Marjorie Myers performed two of the items on the piano. Edna attended Melton State School 430 from 1924 – 1933. Her father Fred had also attended the same school. In 1924 the School staged Cinderella at the Melton Mechanics Institute Hall with a cast of 33 students. After completing her education a Melton she boarded in South Melbourne and attending Melbourne Girls High School (MacRobertson Girls High School), a school which recognized her musical attributes. She travelled home on the train on the weekends, sometimes getting off at Rockbank to save a few pennies in fares. Working life The early 1930s the Depression was a difficult time for a young woman to find work. Jobs were often menial and given to the youngest and therefore cheapest applicant. She worked as sales assistant at Polonskis and Myer in the city, and Irvines Modes in Footscray. Working to 1pm on Saturday, and when held up by a customer meant missing the train home. While at Myer Department store she lived at home and rode her bike to the Melton railway station. On one occasion she had a nasty fall when a part of her bicycle came loose causing the bike to crash rendering her concussed and injuring her nose. During the 1930s she was given a camera “a little snap” by Mrs Kelly her landlady. This began her interest in photography documenting family life at their “Burnbank” home. Musically, while at Myers she participated in annual performances held at The Kings Hall and the Myer Mural Hall. Working in the basement at Myers she was often embarrassed when her name was called, customers assuming she belonged to the Myer Family. Ken Myer worked in the basement at the same time handling the ‘Wheeler’, a wicker basket used for moving goods around the store. The family philosophy was for the children to start at the bottom and work their way up. Social life Social life in her teenage years was connected also with Scots Presbyterian Church. She attended Sunday School classes and received book prizes for attendance. She loved to read and welcomed the times when she received new book. She took part in the Sunday School Anniversaries and was presented with a Bible from the Superintendent, Henry Robinson for her assistance with the music. Marriage and War years In 1941 Edna married Ernest “Bonnie” Barrie. War in the Pacific was soon to break out. While in Sydney on their honeymoon they met up with Jim Barrie who was on his way to Canada via Hawaii just missing Pearl Harbour by two days. Jim became a Spitfire Pilot and joined the RAF and was based in England. He returned to Australia later in RAAF to fight the Japanese off the coast of New Guinea. The three eldest Barrie brothers were farmers and food producers and were thus except from military service. Edna and Bon were members of the VAOC- Volunteer Air Observers Corp entailing being rostered on duty as plane spotters. The women took shifts during the day and the men at night which involved staying overnight in the Shire Offices. Later the spotting tower was built in the plantation opposite the Post Office. Edna and Bon carried on with this from their home in Ferris Rd when the threat of invasion had ceased Community life Community life in Melton revolved around fund raising events for the Melton Mechanics Institute for the War effort and keeping up with maintenance for the Hall. In 1944 the Minister for Health gave approval for the Shire of Melton to open and Infant Welfare Centre inviting Edna to form part of the Committee with seven other women. In 1948 she was President of Melton Branch of the Victorian Health Centres Association. She volunteered this use of her car driving the person in charge, Sister Smith to visit mothers and their babies. In 1963, along with Betty Jones and Isabel Snell, Edna was instrumental in forming the 1st Melton Cub Pack and later supported the formation of the 1st Melton Scouts. During 1963 – 1968 she completed the Australian Boy Scout Association Cub Pack Preliminary Training and achieved her Wood Badge. Country Women’s Association In 1944-1996 she was a member of the Melton Branch Country Women’s Association (CWA), Melton Branch, Secretary of the Branch in 1945 – 1946 and Branch International Secretary 1970-1971. She worked with choir, music and drama interest groups within the branch attaining both first and second place in 1959, second place in 1952 Exhibition and second in Music in 1960 in the state. She was involved in their handicraft craft events, fund raising and musical events and singing competitions. During the 1950s she trained Trios and Quartets in part singing for the CWA competitions in Ballarat and Melbourne. It was at this time that she developed her skill as a conductor and trainer of choirs. She later auditioned for the Victorian Choir for alto parts believing she would stand a better chance of being chosen, because of her ability to sing in natural harmony. In 1962 she participated in the Tenth Australian Country Women of the World (ACWW) Triennial Conference “Australia Presents: CWA Massed Choir” in the Melbourne Town Hall. This event was recorded by Super Sound Spotlight on 45 extended play vinyl record. The songs were Australian music and words, for example The Silver Stars are in the Sky, The Graceful Swaying Wattle and Kookaburra. Edna continued with her interest in the Victorian Choir regularly meeting at the CWA Headquarters in Toorak for rehearsals. In 1974 she took part in the Australian Choir at the fourteenth Triennial conference of the ACWW Interfaith Service held at the Perth Concert Hall on the 13th of October. Arts and Culture Edna was also in the Choir of 3KZ Carols by Candlelight at the Myer Music Bowl in 1963 and 1964. Melton Choral Society. Edna was Director and Conductor in the 1970s performing at many community events such as Carols by Candle Light, Church Services, Easter and Palm Sunday services, Mothers Union and the 1976 Community Services Week Combined Church Service. The October – November 1978 Program covered the following: songs from the Musicals, Choral and Solo with Narratives, Guest Instrumental Item, Recitation Negro Spirituals and Australian Songs. Her involvement with church choirs included the Scots Presbyterian Church Choir Easter and Christmas performances and the 1967 Centenary Service. In 1980s the Melton Uniting Church Sacred Music Performances included The Crucifixion by Stainer, The Olivet to Calvary and other church Hymns. Edna was Musical Director of the Melton Amateur Theatrical Society and worked on performances in collaboration with Mabel Rogers on script and musical interpretation. Melton and District Historical Society Annual Art and Craft Show. First held in Melton Mechanics Institute Hall in 1973, it later took place in the in the Melton Community Hall. The Art Show was also run in conjunction with other community organizations such as Rotary and Girl Guides. Community history and research Melton streetscape and society Over 20 years commencing in the 1970s, Edna undertook extensive photographing of the changing streetscape of Melton’s High Street. She anticipated the impact of change on the community during the time of Melton’s rapid transition from a small farming district to a large urban community and this led to her extensively document and photograph many of the structures and landscape features of the township that have since been lost. She also meticulously recorded much of the contemporary life of the town and has left a significant legacy of archival material. Melton State School 100 Years Celebration, October 1970 Co-author with Mabel Rogers “The First 100 Years, 1870 – 1970” Assembled a collection of School Class Photograph and identified and compiled lists of names for future school history. She also assembled a photographic display for the 125th anniversary in 1995. Melton and District Historical Society (M&DHS) Foundation Member, 1968 Held President and Secretary positions from its inception Research associated with the classification of Heritage buildings Christ Church Classification C Scots’ Presbyterian Church Classification D Set up the storage and Catalogue system in the Office at the Willows Organised society visits to Heritage sites in and beyond the Shire of Melton, including Stathtulloh, Eynesbury, Deanside, ToolernVale sites including Merrywood (now demolished) Staughton Vale, Chirnside, Point Cook, Shwerkolts Cottage. 1970 – 1983 Melton and District Historical Society Letterhead. Staughton Memorial Light from early newspaper cutting in its location before restoration to present location. Sketch by Wendy Barrie. Designing and printing pamphlets, stationery, and other sale items with Willows title. M&DHS street naming research for new housing developments (1970 – 2000). Collaborated with Mary Tolhurst to research the names of early landowners and pioneer families connected to the first settlers. Researched Aboriginal names for inclusion on lists submitted to developers. An early example is the naming of Kuranjang and the street names associated with the McPherson family. Plains of Promise (Shire of Melton history) by Joan Starr (1985). Edna assisted with Historical Society materials and contributed her own research and photographs. Contacted and organised for Hubert Opperman to launch the book. (She was also present at his last bike ride at Rochester in 1995.) Western Metropolitan Groups of Historical Societies. Member attending meetings and representing Melton, also hosted the Group at Melton The Willows Member of the Committee of Management for the restoration of the “Willows” house the establishment of The Willows Park 1982 March - Official Opening of the Willows Park- Preparation and planning for the event. Involved in the collecting of items in the furnishing of the display rooms in the Willows house. Donated items and furniture from the Myers and Daley family houses. (19th century) Machinery Shed Establishment. Involved with Jeff Robinson in the construction and collection of machinery display Other significant sites Championed and participated in the restoration and preservation significant sites in Melton, including: restoration of the Staughton Memorial Light and its return to its present site restoration of the Pykes Grave (using EW Barrie earthmoving equipment) restoration and reconstruction of Dunvegan restoration and reconstruction of Macs Cottage, the management and Caretakers residence Melton State School War Memorial Gates removed from Unitt Street entrance and relocated to the Willows Park Donated the Barrie family single furrow plough which was standing at the Court House Plaza. It removed and to Council Depot and later missing. The plaque was taken to the Willows. Jimmy Melrose (aviator) cairn restoration at crash site in Melton South Donald Mackintosh (Olympic gold medallist marksman) grave site at the Melton Cemetery (Historical items held by the Myers family collection.) Houdini first flight at Diggers Rest. Edna’s father was shearing at Diggers Rest at the time and witnessed the flight. She attended the 90 year anniversary of the event at the site in 2000. Radio and electronics Edna’s husband Bon interest in wireless communication dates in the 1920s with the building of a crystal set in the early days of public broadcasting. At the Back to Melton Celebrations in 1929, 3AR broadcast a concert from the Melton Mechanics Institute on the 20th February at 8pm featuring Footscray City Band, James Hill baritone, Vera Carew Soprano, James Foran Tenor, Marjorie Myers Piano, and James Williamson Entertainer. Accompanists: Miss Agnes Ross and Mrs James Hill. The Myers children had recordings of their piano playing made onto the aluminium records, Martha Myers’ voice can be heard introducing an item. These were made in a studio in Melbourne. Marjorie was given a upright Gramophone by Donald Mackintosh in recognition of her talent and her contribution to the cultural life of Melton. The family were then able to listen to 78rpm recordings of the famous classical recordings. The turntable was hand wound metal stylus needles had to be regularly replaced. The aluminium disk needed a bamboo needle to prevent damage to the surface. Before electricity was introduced to Melton in 1939 the Mechanics Hall relied on generators to produce electricity. Bon Barrie, being mechanically minded, built a public address system for be used a community functions at the Hall and Recreational Park. By 1939 this was up and running and used for over three decades. A large Collection of 78rpm records provided music for dances, marching, parades and any public event needing music and microphones. The early system was portable and worked on batteries. CFA Radio Communication In the 1950s with the introduction two-way HF and later VHF very high frequency radio sets. Melton Rural Fire Brigade was part of the Bacchus Marsh Group. Radio sets where located in the Melton Fire Truck, and in the house of the Barrie family at Ferris Road. This was an ideal location to observe a 360 degree view in all directions when smoke appeared on the horizon. An antenna was erected beside the house. The set OX 7 was located in the kitchen and monitored 24 hours by the family. When an electrical fire occurred at the junction of the electricity to the house there was time to radio the fire station and summons the men working in the paddocks, thus saving the house from possible destruction. With the introduction of UHF – ultra high frequency Vinten Radios the signal was clearer and static and interference lessened and radio traffic became easier to read, and reduced noise levels in the household. VL3 LY Radio Base became the Group Headquarters was established in 1967. By 1970 the Brigades were: Melton, Rockbank, Sydenham, Toolern Vale, Diggers Rest, Truganina, and Werribee. In 1974 when the family moved to First Avenue, another antenna and a small building were erected adjacent to the residence and used to house the equipment, maps. Radio traffic consisted of regular schedule times and communication with adjoining groups of brigades such as Bacchus Marsh, Mt Macedon and Little River Groups. Many of the brigade and group base radios were situated in private residences and operated primarily by fire fighters wives who held the position of Communications Officer, either registered as a brigade member or informally. Edna was never registered as an operational brigade member but operated informally as an assistant to her husband Bon. She was however a member of the Melton Fire Brigade Ladies Auxiliary from its inception in 1968, a non-operational position. Edna kept up to date with radio procedure following the 1967 handbook; preparing maps, plotting compass points and taking notes on weather forecasts from the SA Border and Western District. Daily notes were taken in anticipation of fire warnings. These log books and daily radio traffic were incidental to the regular radio schedules. Emergency turnouts noted, burning off times and predicted location of smoke. In the summer fire season all TBF (total fire ban days were recorded.) In times of emergency the Barrie family assisted Bon the base radio operator to plot the position and location of fire trucks and to help clarify garbled radio traffic, keep notes and make telephone calls. These log books are held in the EE and EW Family Archive. Melton Uniting Church Edna founded the Church Opportunity with Maisie Robinson in 1975 in the Melton South Methodist Church building. Methodist and Presbyterian Churches of Melton had combined severing their long held connection with Bacchus Marsh. A Manse had been recently built for the Melton Minister. At a Parish Committee meeting at the Melton South Church it was suggested to use the building as an Opportunity Shop. It opened in July 1975, and it raised $1,600 contribution to the church budget in 1976. In 1977 The Uniting Church in Australia was formed and the Melton South Uniting Church Opportunity shop continued to go from strength to strength expanding the buildings providing the welfare needs of the community. Archive Set up by Edna Catalogued items dating from 1857 Minute Book and set ongoing system and storage of items of heritage. Melton Un Awards and recognition of service to the Melton community Rotary Award for Community Service, 1980 Victoria 150th Anniversary Celebrations contributions, 1985 Life Membership of the Melton and District Historical Society (M&DHS), 1989 Extra-Ordinary Contribution for years of service to M&DHS, 1992 Long Service for Exceptional Service MD&HS, 1993 Royal Historical Society of Victoria Award of Merit, 1997 Shire of Melton Certificate of Appreciation for continued support and dedication as a member of MD&HS to the preservation of Melton’s History, 1998 Centenary of Federation Peoplescape (Canberra) Melton Shire nomination, 2001 Uniting Church Melton Life Membership of the Opportunity Shop Uniting Church in Australia Commission for Mission for 30 years of hard work and dedications to the Uniting Church, 2007 Uniting Church Adult Fellowship Certificate appreciation in recognition of valuable support through the “Sammy” Stamp Fund Neighbourhood Watch 5 year award Photographs of Edna at different ageslocal identities

In 2023 The Royal Australian Mint has released a Legacy Centenary Coin. The coin is available in a limited mintage of 30,000. The reverse of the coin features a sculpted interpretation of the Legacy logo torch cupped by a pair of hands with the title text ‘Centenary of Legacy • 100 Years of Service’ circling the design around the edge of the coin. The front side of the coin features the Queen Elizabeth II Memorial Obverse which will only be featured on coins made in 2023, making this coin even more collectible. The coin was released in two different presentation cards. Australia Post also issued a stamp featuring the Legacy Torch. It will be in general circulation as well as available as commemorative packs and first day covers. The stamp design presents the iconic branding of Legacy Australia and echoes the colours of the Australian flag. The torch design prominently placed in the stamp represents the undying flame of service and sacrifice, the foundation of Legacy’s existence. The body of the torch is presented in a gold colour, signifying generosity and compassion. In its wreath of laurel, with its points inverted in remembrance, is the guerdon of honour, to represent those who gave their lives for their country. The coin was released in two different presentation cards. One was $15. This one appears with the Legacy Stamp and postmarked as a first day of issue and cost $18.95 in a limited edition of 7,000. A record that Legacy's reputation is such that the centenary was marked by the Royal Mint and Australia Post.An uncirculated Australian $1 coin in a protective pack with the Legacy Stamp.100th anniversary, centenary

Australia Post issued a stamp featuring the Legacy Torch. It will be in general circulation as well as available as commemorative packs and first day covers. The stamp design presents the iconic branding of Legacy Australia and echoes the colours of the Australian flag. The torch design prominently placed in the stamp represents the undying flame of service and sacrifice, the foundation of Legacy’s existence. The body of the torch is presented in a gold colour, signifying generosity and compassion. In its wreath of laurel, with its points inverted in remembrance, is the guerdon of honour, to represent those who gave their lives for their country. The commemorative envelope has an image of Stan Savige and comes with the Legacy Stamp and postmarked as a first day of issue, 21st March 2023, and cost $1.50.A record that Legacy's reputation is such that the centenary was marked by Australia Post.A decorative envelope with the Legacy stamp and stamped with the first day of issue.100th anniversary, centenary

In 2023 The Royal Australian Mint has released a Legacy Centenary Coin. The coin is available in a limited mintage of 30,000. The reverse of the coin features a sculpted interpretation of the Legacy logo torch cupped by a pair of hands with the title text ‘Centenary of Legacy • 100 Years of Service’ circling the design around the edge of the coin. The front side of the coin features the Queen Elizabeth II Memorial Obverse which will only be featured on coins made in 2023, making this coin even more collectible. The coin was released in two different presentation cards. This one retailed for $15. The other appears with the Legacy Stamp and postmarked as a first day of issue and cost $18.95 in a limited edition of 7,000.A record that Legacy's reputation is such that the centenary was marked by the Royal Mint and Australia Post.An uncirculated Australian $1 coin in a protective pack.100th anniversary, centenary

The Bendigo Post Office was built between 1883 and 1887 by McCulloch and McAlpine. It was designed by George W Watson in the 2nd Empire architectural style.Colour printed envelope - Bendigo Post Office Centenary 1887-1987. Envelope has a 37c stamp with an image of a cockatoo, which has been stamped with a black stamp dated 30 Sept 1987, Vic 3550 - the 'first day" of issue. The envelope was produced by Australia Post to mark the Centenary of the Post Office in Bendigo, and includes a colour image of the Pall Mall frontage of the Post Office building on the corner of Myer Lane and Pall Mall including the Post Office tower and clock.bendigo post office, australia day first day cover, centenary

This envelope and its unknown contents were sent in 1937 to Fred Miller of Boughton Farm at Cassady's Bridge. west of Warrnambool. The envelope advertises an Annual Gala Week in Warrnambool from December 26th 1937 to January 2nd 1938. This was an event organized by the Warrnambool Progress Association as a tourist promotion exercise. The Secretary of the Association at the time was Martin Carter, a well-known Warrnambool saddler and local band conductor. The envelope also advertised the forthcoming Warrnambool Centenary Celebrations in 1939-1940 but these were not held because of the outbreak of World War Two. The Centenary celebrations were eventually held in 1947, a more appropriate year as Warrnambool was founded in 1847. This envelope is of interest as a memento of the 1930s in WarrnamboolThis is a bone-coloured envelope with images on the front of three people on the left and in the centre, red printing, black typing and postal franking. The back has a postal stamp.Mr. F. Miller Cassidy's (sic) Warrnambool P.O. Warrnambool Centenary Celebrations 1939-40 For Your Next Holiday Warrnambool the Garden City by the Sea Annual Gala Week --Dec.26,1937 to Jan.2 Under auspices of Warrnambool Progress Association Particulars from M.L.Carter, Sec.gala week warrnambool 1937, m.l.carter warrnambool, warrnambool progress association, warrnambool centenary celebrations, fred miller boughton cassady's bridge

Souvenir cover, centenary envelope and postcard commemorating the flight of Basil Watson in 1917 to Mt Gambier. (a) Pale green envelope with image of Basil's airplane on LH side, stamp with Basil on top RH corner. Written on envelope 'Basil Watson Air Mail Centenary 1917 - 2017 Mount Gambier to Melbourne, First Air Mail, Sth Australia - Victoria. (b) postcard: photo of Basil Watson's airplane situated in the backyard of the family home in Brighton. Stamped on back with Basil Watson Essendon 27 Feb 2017 Airport Vic Centenary. Basil pictured with his father James Watson, in front of plane at Albert Park, Melbourne.aviation, civilian, basil watson

.1 - Postcard - full colour with serrated edge - Nu-color-Vue - co produced with the TMSV - of the A. E. Twentyman cable set at his Northcote home. The rear is printed in brown ink - card number NCV 234, with place for stamp. gives detail of the tram, the photograph location, the TMSV logo and the Nucolorvue on the left hand side and that photo is courtesy of Wrappings Pty Ltd. .2 - similar photo but with Alf's second saloon tram in the view and details but with card number NCV 905 and photo credited to A. E. Twentyman. .3 - same photo as .1, but glued into a Nu-color-Vue produced greeting card with a cut out for the caption on the rear of the card - has the Wrappings Pty Ltd. photograph credit with raised gold printing. Has been used to send Christmas Greetings to Brian Weedon, signed by Ron Scholten and has the TMSV Sales stamp on the inside. .4 - 2nd copy of postcard - on rear - Has 33 cent stamp, postmarked for the Centenary of Cable Car Services, 11/11/1985 with a grip included and stamped "100 years of Melbourne trams carried on Commemorative official trip from Flinders St, Melbourne to Richmond Town Hall, November 11, 1985" in blue ink in the bottom right hand corner.trams, tramways, postcards, cable trams, northcote, tmsv, greetings cards, centenary, stamps

Postcard - black and white reproduction of a wall poster used by the Box Hill - Doncaster Tramway, includes sketch of Doncaster Tower, one of the tram cars and timetable. See Reg Item 699 and 198. Printed for the State Library of Victoria, by John Sands - Number PC11. Divided back, caption, printing information and bar code where a stamp would go. Robert Green advised by email 20-1-2018: "The tram in Russell Street was unveiled by the Premier, R J Hamer, on 1 May 1975. The ceremony was attended by F R Kirby, the Chairman of the M&MTB, and the Chairman (Judge Leckie) and Director (R H Fowler) of the Science Museum of Victoria." The tram was removed from the glass case when further development to the buildings occurred and temporarily relocated to Box Hill for the centenary of the Doncaster Tramway. 2nd copy of postcard - on rear - Has 33 cent stamp, postmarked for the Centenary of Cable Car Services, 11/11/1985 with a grip included and stamped "100 years of Melbourne trams carried on Commemorative official trip from Flinders St, Melbourne to Richmond Town Hall, November 11, 1985" in blue ink in the top left hand corner.trams, tramways, box hill, posters, timetables, doncaster, postcards, cable trams

Memento - set of three items that were given out at the "Box Hill - Doncaster Electric Tramway - Centenary Exhibition" 19-28 October 1989. .1 - Two pasteboard printed tickets for a day return and the exhibition - Nos. 7297 and 7298 .2 - Pamphlet promoting the Robert Green book, "The first electric road" with a order form. .3 - Paper bag stamped with the image of the tramway cross bench car. Also see Reg items 867 and 870 for other examplestrams, tramways, box hill, tramways, celebrations, doncaster

Colour postcard of Melbourne tram all-over advertising or decorated tram W6 909, painted for the centennial of electric trams in Melbourne with Flinders St Station in the background. Tram operating a City Circle Service, October 2006. Photo by Earl Ewers. Postcard produced by Railcard for the Association of Railway Enthusiasts, ARE No.14/07. Has ARE logo, shop details and hours, space for small message, address and stamp.trams, tramways, melbourne, advertising trams, decorated trams, flinders st station, centenaries, 100 years of electric trams, route 35, city circle, tram 909

Postcard - full colour, featuring Z2 104 in Flinders St with the Flinders St Station in the background. Tram has the destination of Spencer St, Route 28. On rear, divided back, Australia Post logo, a 22c stamp featuring the same image and postmarked "Centenary Celebrations Moonee Ponds 3039, 30 Oct. 1981"trams, tramways, badges, employees, pmtt, passes, tram 104

Postcard - four panel, colour, titled "Melbourne Trams - Past and Present", featuring trams: Royal Park horse tram 256 Richmond cable tram W7 class tram - 1022 Z3 class tram 116 On rear is TMSV image, details of the TMSV Bylands, produced by Scancolor, Melbourne, CS1482. Has 33 cent stamp, postmarked for the Centenary of Cable Car Services, 11/11/1985 with a grip included and stamped "100 years of Melbourne trams carried on Commemorative official trip from Flinders St, Melbourne to Richmond Town Hall, November 11, 1985" in blue ink in the bottom right hand corner.trams, tramways, postcards, centenary, cable trams, stamps, horse tram, w7 class, z3 class, tram 256, tram 1022, tram 116

Black and white postcard of the "Opening day of the Box Hill - Doncaster Electric Tramway - 14 October 1889" of the open cross bench tram. Has a detailed description on the rear along with the event details - see image i2. Divided Back with place for a stamp.trams, tramways, box hill, doncaster, centenary, opening

Black and white postcard of the "Second Tram car used on the Box Hill - Doncaster electric tramway - December 1890" Shows the saloon tram. Has a detailed description on the rear along with the event details - see image htd5218i2. Divided Back with place for a stamp.trams, tramways, box hill, doncaster, centenary

Photograph of W7 1024 decorated and illuminated for the Centenary of Kew. See March 1961 Electric Traction - "W7 1024 was decorated and illuminated for the centenary of the City of Kew, and was scheduled to run between December 4 and December 16, 1960, from Kew Depot on the Mont Albert and North Balwyn lines. Its term was extended to mid-January and it was still running in early February. It was similarly decorated for the centenary of the City of Fitzroy in 1958 (see illustration E.T. 10/60). Has the MMTB stamp amd number on the rear of the print.Yields information about tram 1024 decorated for the centenary of the City of Kew in 1960.Black and white print with remnants of mounting paper on rear.tramways, city of kew, decorated trams, tram 1024, illuminated trams, w7 class, centenary celebrations

Rose Series postcard No. P 3644 titled "St Kilda Road, Melbourne" looking south from the Flinders St station clocktower along St Kilda Road with 10 trams and at least two horse-drawn carts in the view. There are two trams running route 4D (Darling Road - City) and two route 6B (Malvern Town Hall - City) trams. On the northern end of the Flinders St station verandah are two adverts - one for a Deaf and Blind Institute Flower show and one for a Special Easter Tour to Adelaide for the South Australian Centenary of 1936.Yields information about St Kilda Road in 1936.Postcard - printed real photograph with Rose Stereograph Co. name on the rear.Has "K J Magor" stamp on rear.trams, tramways, w2 class, swanston st, batman ave, st kilda road, route 4b, route 6b

Medallion made for the Tramway Benefit Society as a memento of the 1934-35 celebration of the centenary for the founding of Melbourne. The Tramway Benefit Society was the employee's health fund and at the time operated the Vimy House Hospital. See Reference for more details.Demonstrates a medallion made to celebrate Melbourne's Centennial in 1934.Medallion - brass - stamped - filled with red or black enamel paint. Has an eyelet at the top.medallion, tramway benefit society, centenary celebrations, melbourne

White DL size envelope with two of the Oct 1989 Historic Tramway Stamps (Hobart and Brisbane), with a cancellation stamps, carried on Original route Box Hill on the date of the Box Hill to Doncaster tramway centenary - 14 Oct. 1989. Has the Australian Historic Tramways logo in the lower left hand corner. See also Reg Items 470 to 474 for other examples and associated materials and 510 for a Poster. On the rear are detail of the stamp issue, the designers and cover design. .1 - ditto - with cable car set, cancelled stamp - "STAMPSHOW '88 TRAM TPO 21 OCT 1989 Melbourne" .2 - ditto - with all five stamps and cancellation stamp of "SYDNEY TRAMWAY MUSEUM F CLASS TRAMCAR 11 OCT 1989 SUTHERLANDS NSW 2232"trams, tramways, stamps, australia post, box hill, doncaster, sydney tramway museum

Photo, an Official MMTB photograph, showing W4 673, decorated for the Victorian Centenary in 1934, at Preston Workshops. Tram was illuminated. Extensively decorated with the State Coat of Arms. See item 5242 for another photograph. Yields information about W4 673 decorated for the centenary of Victoria in 1934.Black and White photograph on plain paper. Two priints heldOn rear of second photograph in pencil - "illuminated car centenary celebrations, mask brickwork, background blank" and Suttcliffe Photographer stamp.tramways, w4 class, victoria, centenary, preston workshops, tram 673

Colour postcard with serrated edges of 1041 and Cable Tram set No. 1 outside a building at Preston Workshops, c1974. Produced by Nucolorvue Productions for the TMSV, NCV1095. Has details of the photograph on the rear, TMSV Logo, Publisher details and Printed in Australia. Photograph by David Menzies. Two copies held See Also Reg Items 120, 1036 and 3320 72.1 - 2nd copy of postcard - on rear - Has 33 cent stamp, postmarked for the Centenary of Cable Car Services, 11/11/1985 with a grip included and stamped "100 years of Melbourne trams carried on Commemorative official trip from Flinders St, Melbourne to Richmond Town Hall, November 11, 1985" in blue ink in the bottom right hand corner. See Reg Item 5784 for a colour slide.trams, tramways, cable trams, prototype tramcar, mmtb, preston workshops, centenary, stamps, tram 1041, tram 1

Cardboard, punched out, folding model tram - Siemens 3 section Combino printed for the 100 years of Electric Trams in Melbourne, Yarra Trams. with the centenary logo in the top left hand corner. Has assembly notes. Printed as a postcard on the reverse with area for a stamp with 100years trams logo, Yarra tram and Siemens logos. A5 size. Two copies held. See Reg Item 109 for a A4 size.Has a $7 price sticker on the front of the card.trams, tramways, models, siemens, yarra trams, centenary

75 blue envelopes addressed to Messrs Wilkinson & Lavender Ltd, Box 848J GPO Melbourne Victoria 3001. Sent from Hay NSW (The Riverina Office of Wilkinson & Lavender). Letters are enclosed within two pieces of brown cardboard, secured with an elastic band. Written on outside of cardboard ' Air Mail Flown Covers. R.K. Munro, 63 Pyke Street, Bendigo, Vic. Aus' 'By Air Mail' sticker affixed alongside name and address. Various postage stamp denominations on envelopes; 1p, 11/2p, 3p, (King George V), 3p (air mail service), 11/2p (1929 Centenary of Western Australia), and A.A.S. Ltd stamp*. No contents in envelopes. Cancellation marks on stamps. Items collected by R. K. Munro, 63 Pyke Bendigo Victoria 3550. Wilkinson & Lavender were Stock & Station Agents and Airline agents for A.A.S Ltd. R. K. Munro was employed by Wilkinson Lavender in 1929/30? *Australian Aerial Services Ltd - featuring a winged messenger.Wilkinson & Lavender Stock & Station Agents, Airline Agents for Australian.Aerial.Services Ltdaviation, civilian, air mail envelopes within aust., basil watson collection.