Please find 5 photographs taken by me & my wife Brenda, at Ballarat, on 14 December 1993. Unfortunately, I did not take photographs of the building that housed the exhibit, probably because I thought just how sad and pathetic the entire memorial display looked. It comprised a reconstructed slab hut and nearby a partly-rebuilt fence that represented the hastily-built Eureka Stockade. The signage that detailed the events surrounding the Eureka Stockade was affixed to the hut wall beside the entrance to the interior diorama. In the first photograph, you can see the dark, bare timber colour of the slab wood that held the signage plus (on the left side) one of the numerous holes in the slab walls. This made the display very cold and draughty in its interior. Once inside, you were confronted with an earthen, gravel and leafy floor, which became muddy, after rain, as it was on the day of our visit. The diorama was held in a glass and cement display case. with no lights on. It was dark inside the hut so the diorama was not easy to see unless you inserted a coin into a metal pay-box. Then lights would turn on and a recording of shouting and gunfire (representing the battle noise) would play. I remember the whole experience to be short and underwhelming. To get an idea of the scale of the diorama, you can see Brenda’s elbow & part torso to the left of the photograph labeled “diorama- hut exit”. Once outside the diorama’s slab hut, you could walk across to a partial representation of the stockade’s fortifications, complete with two wagon wheels. This space was also graveled to distinguish it from the rest of the green-lawn park. Finally, you walked up the hill, from the hut and outside display, to visit the old Eureka Stockade monument & cannons. This is still in existence today. Digital photographeureka stockade, sign, diorama, jack ford, brenda ford, memorial

Please find 5 photographs taken by me & my wife Brenda, at Ballarat, on 14 December 1993. Unfortunately, I did not take photographs of the building that housed the exhibit, probably because I thought just how sad and pathetic the entire memorial display looked. It comprised a reconstructed slab hut and nearby a partly-rebuilt fence that represented the hastily-built Eureka Stockade. The signage that detailed the events surrounding the Eureka Stockade was affixed to the hut wall beside the entrance to the interior diorama. In the first photograph, you can see the dark, bare timber colour of the slab wood that held the signage plus (on the left side) one of the numerous holes in the slab walls. This made the display very cold and draughty in its interior. Once inside, you were confronted with an earthen, gravel and leafy floor, which became muddy, after rain, as it was on the day of our visit. The diorama was held in a glass and cement display case. with no lights on. It was dark inside the hut so the diorama was not easy to see unless you inserted a coin into a metal pay-box. Then lights would turn on and a recording of shouting and gunfire (representing the battle noise) would play. I remember the whole experience to be short and underwhelming. To get an idea of the scale of the diorama, you can see Brenda’s elbow & part torso to the left of the photograph labeled “diorama- hut exit”. Once outside the diorama’s slab hut, you could walk across to a partial representation of the stockade’s fortifications, complete with two wagon wheels. This space was also graveled to distinguish it from the rest of the green-lawn park. Finally, you walked up the hill, from the hut and outside display, to visit the old Eureka Stockade monument & cannons. This is still in existence today. digital photographeureka, diorama, 1993, jack ford, brenda ford, eureka monument, memorial, eureka stockade, eureka diorama

This wooden humidicrib came from Cobram ambulance station which was part of the old Goulburn Valley Ambulance Service. When the need for humidicribs was understood, none were available at Cobram. Not prepared to wait for a humidicrib to be issued to them, local ambulance officers made their own! If you look carefully you will see the air circulation vents and springs between the inner and outer timber boxes. These were designed to make what could be a long ride over rough roads as comfortable as possible for sick babies. Probably made in the 1950s, we do not know how many babies were saved by this particular humidicrib - but it was a success. Other ambulance services made their own after hearing about the Cobram Ambulance Station humidicrib. Source Chas Martin AHSV curator). Humidicribs are used to transport sick babies from small hospitals to major hospitals for specialist care. They work by maintaining normal body temperature and provide oxygen if needed during ambulance transit. Known by a variety of commercial names, earlier humidicribs were ones heated with water bottles. Not part of an ambulances standard equipment, humidicribs are kept in ambulance stations and carried if babies needed to be transported. In the early days before humidicribs came into use and when air ambulances did not exist, many more babies died during emergency transits than do today. A doll was sourced from St Vincent de Paul Brighton. The doll was dressed in an original hand made christening gown made in 1975 by Miss Molly Hambly from Glen Waverley (now deceased). It was used for her Great Nephew's christening in 1976. Brown timber box with top opening lid and Perspex vision/access panel in lid. inner timber cot/box free standing on springs.cobram, goulburn valley ambulance, infant, baby

John Robson was born at Newcastle, Northumberland, England, the son of Mathew Robson and Hannah Sproat. Hesailed to Australia on the "Arabian", landing at Port Phillip in 1854. Obituary DEATH OF MR. JOHN ROBSON ANOTHER PIONEER GONE. AN EXTREMELY VERSATILE MAN. General regret was expressed at the death yesterday morning at Miss Garnett's private hospital, of Mr John Robson, musician and and elocutonist and one of Ballarat's oldest, best known and most respected citizens. Mr Robson had been sitting for a few weeks, and his medical adviser, diagnosed his complaint as appendicitis, which afflicted, him in such a severe form that an operation was deemed to be absolutely necessary. He was removed to Miss Garnett's private hospital, and about a week ago he was operated upon. Mr Robson, being a man of robust constitution, stood the shock of the operation well, and he was making good headway towards recovery when the spell of hot weather set in, and caused exhaustion. Heart failure followed, and exhaustion the attention of his medical adviser, and the careful nursing he received, the end came peacefully at the time stated above. Mr John Robson was born at Newcastle, Northumberland, England, in , and he was therefore 72 years of age. Mr Robson's father, who was a contractor, had much to do with the building of the City of Newcastle. After passing through minor schools, Mr John Robson entered the academy of Professor Ross, and soon rose to a foremost position in the classes. When his studies were completed he was apprenticed to an architect and for a time studied the technique of this important branch of his father's calling. His adaptability for the work was great, and hopes were entertained that he would rise to a high position in the profession. Then came glowing reports of the wonderful Australian gold discoveries. Mr Robson’s father decided to migrate to these parts, and he sent a son to prepare the way. Believing that tools and timber might not be procured in Australia. Mr Robson, senr, constructed a portable wooden residence, which was shipped in pieces on the White Star liner Arabian which brought the family over. In 1854 Mr John Robson, who was then nearly 17 years of age, landed at Port Phillip, and with the other members of the family came on to Ballarat, which place he made his home to the end. When he first reached Ballarat, Mr Robson joined in the search for gold, but not being strong enough for this rough work, he turned his attention to carpentering. This he did not care much about, and in 1858 he was appointed a teacher in St. Paul's Day School, Ballarat, but in the following year he relinquished this position and became exchange clerk in the local branch of the National Bank. Being adapted to this quickly made himself acquainted with the details of a banker’s profession, and his rise was rapid. In the year 1871, about 12 years after he joined the bank, he was appointed manager, and for four years occupied that position with conspicuous success. He was connected with the National Bank for eighteen years, and in 1875 he entered business on his own account. With his brother, Mr Wm. Robson, he erected red-gum sawmills at Gunbower, on the River Murray. Subsequently he was offered the management of the Australian and European Bank in mills. In 1886, he accepted the position and held it until the bank was absorbed by the Commercial Bank of Australia. For a time he lived privately, still, how ever, holding his interest in the saw mills. In 1886, he accepted, the position of manager of the Ballarat branch of the Mercantile Bank of Australia. This bank was closed in 1892, and Mr Robson retired, altogether from commercial circles. In the meantime his brother died, and the saw-mills were sold. Mr Robson held a very important position in music, in fact he for many years was looked upon as the leading musician in Ballarat, he being master of quite a variety of instruments. In 1864. he was appointed conductor of the old Harmonic Society in this city, and subsequently conductor of the Ballarat Liedertafel. Under his leadership this society attained a high state of efficiency, which has since been well-maintained. Many years ago Mr Robson formed an operatic company from amongst Ballarat residents, and such beautiful operas as “Lucrezia Borgia' "Lucia di Lammermoor," “Ernani,' La Sonnambula,” and others were successfully rendered. As an elocutionist, Mr Robson attained much prominence, he being recognised as one of the most capable teachers in Ballarat. He was president of the one-time Ballarat Shakespearian Dramatic Club, which under his direction, from time to time produced Shakespeare’s masterpieces. In this, too, he took the chief characters, the roles of Macbeth, Othello, Hamlet, and Shylock, all being powerfully represented by him. For some years prior to his demise Mr Robson, acted as a teacher of music, and elocution, and many of his pupils, competed with great success at the Ballarat and other competitions. Some years ago he acted as adjudicator at the South street competitions, when he gave every satisfaction, and his services were frequently secured to judge at competitions in other parts of the State and in other states of the Commonwealth. At the Ballarat band contests every year, he was a conspicuous figure, and he always acted as leader of the massed bands, by whom his appearance was always enthusiastically greeted. In his younger days he took a keen interest in several forms of sport, was a successful oarsman, one of the best amateur boxers of his weight and as a billiard player was able to hold his own with professionals. 'Mr Robson was an earnest adherent of the Church of England, and in social and other organisations he from time to time held important positions. As a Anglican churchman, he was widely respected, being the official principal and lay Canon of the Cathedral, a member of the Bishops Council, and a prominent member of St. Paul's Church, Ballarat East. He was also a prominent member of the Masonic order. and was a Past Grand Junior Warden of the Grand Lodge of Freemasons of Victoria, an office which he filled with the greatest credit. He was also a member of the Old Colonists' Association and the Mechanics' Institute, was at one time vice-president of the Art Gallery was once a member of the School of Mines Council, and was many years ago made a Justice of the Pence. On many occasions he was asked to stand for Parliament, as a representative of Ballarat and on one occasion he consented to do so, but subsequently retired without going to the poll in favor of the late Mr Daniel Brophy. He was also often pressed to stand for both the Ballarat East and City Councils, but he declined to allow himself to be nominated. Mr Robson was an active gentleman, and a brilliant conversationalist. His courtesy, high mental and moral endowments, and warm open-heartedness, made him a most interesting and congenial companion. During his long residence in Ballarat, which city he declined to sever his connected with, he was well known and much courted, and was looked up on as one of the most prominent citizens, and his loss will be very severely felt. Some years ago a portrait of Mr Robson, in full Masonic regalia, was painted by he late Mr Stanton Bowman, and was presented by Mr Robson to the citizens, and it was hung in the City Hall, where it is always admired by visitors. The late Mr John Robson never married, and with his brother, James, lived for many years in Eureka street, Ballarat. The two brothers were nearly always together, and as they walked the streets with arms linked, they were frequently referred to as the Siamese twins. The only Australian relative of the late Mr John Robson is his brother. Mr James Robson, who hardly left the bedside during John's illness, and to him the blow has been a very severe one. In his bereavement he will have the heartfelt sympathy not only of the whole of the residents of Ballarat, but of people in all parts of the State. When the news of Mr Robson’s death became known the flags were flown at half-mast at the City and Town Halls, and the Old Colonists’ Hall, out of respect to the memory of the deceased. The interment will take place at the Old Cemetery this afternoon. The cortege will leave “Rothbury," Eureka street, Mr Robson’s late residence, at 3 o'clock, for St. Paul’s Church, where there will be a short service conducted by the vicar, the Rev T. A. Colebrook. (Ballarat Star, January 1910)Photographic portrait of John Robson, member of the Old Colonists' Association of Ballarat.john robson, old colonists' association of ballarat, old colonists' club

Initial rules for the running of Holmbush and for the intended residents, with the aim of providing a 'private family residence of the best type' for Junior Legatees admitted by the Management Committee, including a list of clothing each resident was expected to bring.Details of how the Melbourne Legacy residence was to be run reveal how much work and time the Legatees invested in looking after Junior Legatees and how seriously they took this responsibility in 1943.Quarto carbon copy of typed rules, black on faded white'Approved J.L.C. 1943' handwritten in blue ink.residences, holmbush administration, holmbush initial negotiations, rules

A 4 page job application from Thomas Mullins for the position of Hostel Manager. Lists his war service and loss of his left arm in France 1916. Also the family casualties suffered; mother in an air raid, father and brother through war service, brother living with the after effects of gas, plus his wife's father was a Kandahar veteran. It continues with his civilian experience and how his attributes would suit the position, then provides references. Holmbush was the first children's home established by Melbourne Legacy. It was later renamed Blamey House when the first Blamey House was sold. Melbourne Legacy ran three residences: Blamey House (purchased 1947) , Stanhope (purchased 1945) and Harelands (purchased 1950), to take care of children whose fathers were servicemen, and who may have been left orphans, or whose mother may have been unable to care for them herself. Harelands accommodated boys and girls under the age of 14, Blamey House looked after boys over 14, and Stanhope looked after girls over 14. The children were cared for until they were old enough to become independent.A record of written correspondence regarding job applications in 1943.Letter from Mr Mullins applying for a position at Holmbush handwritten on white foolscap paper and two hole punched.Handwritten "Withdrawn" in pencil at the top.residences, holmbush, holmbush administration

Yields information about the operation of one man trams in Ballarat and Bendigo and the provision of information to the American tramway or Street car press. Has a strong association with the Author - Mr Pringle.Series of five digital images of items from the Electric Street Railway Journal about one-man tram operations and wages in Ballarat, written by the ESCo Manager, Mr P J Pringle, Chief Engineer and General Manager. Images i1 and i2 - pages 172 and 173 - letter titled "Improved one-man Operation in Australia", Vol 47 No. 4, 22/1/1916 - describing the operation, and how it operates. Reference to the use in other places in made by the author and the magazine. image i3 - general comment making possible reference to a UK magazine - and how one man tram are worked and their routes, including tickets and wages. From Vol 46, page 23, 4/12/1915. image i4 - "The Principals of Differential Wages in Awards" - Vol 56, No. 19., 6/11/1920 page 965, looking at wages based on locations, arbitration, over WW1, including cost of living and renting. image i5 - "One Man cars in Australia" - Vol 55, No. 24, 12/6/2020 - page 1206, looking at the accident rates between one and two man cars.trams, tramways, one man trams, electric street railway journal, ballarat, bendigo, esco, wages, fares, accidents

Yields information about tram 39 following its disposal and how it was sheltered.Set of 8 AGFA blue and white plastic mount 27mm square slides of Tram No. 39 at the Lions Pa rk, Lismore c1973, after the roof has been built over it. See also Reg Item 6545 for photographs of the tram prior to the roof being built over it. .1 - 39 at the park with the shelter looking newly built. .2 - ditto with D3 671 in the background. .3 - end view of the tram, with the highway in the background. .4 - as for .2 .5 - interior view of one end with the controller and brake valves removed. .6 - interior view of the pink paintwork! .7 - ditto .8 - ditto Various notations by John as to the slide number and the trams in pencil and ink.tramways, trams, disposal, lismore, preserved trams, tram 39

Yields information about the demolition or removal of the depot roof and how it was done.Newspaper cutting from The Courier, Ballarat 22/7/1972 of the former SEC Depot in Wendouree Parade being demolished. Photo taken inside the building with most of the roof removed. Photo taken looking to the rear of the depot during the demolition process. See Reg item 3781 for a print of the courier Photograph. demolition, depot, sec depot

Original c 1914 (see below), facsimile copy - re-published 1972. Original features photos of Ballarat City and Town, its buildings, parks and the various industries and organisations that were in Ballarat at the time of publication, including ESCo. Many photos features ESCo trams. Photos sepia toned. Has some red colour block printing on the front cover and rear, for Star Oil Engines. On inside back cover is a map with the places of interest and tram route map, marked in red. Pages are un-numbered. Original published by Ballarat East Town Council and Ballaarat City Council. On cover has number stamped in black in, "No. 87" (assume facsimile copy No.). Photos with publication show tram No. 21, built 1913 and ESCo photo page shows Mr. Pringle as Manager. Mr Pringle became manager in January 1911, As there is no photos of the "Avenue of Honour", or other mention of the first world war, assume original published about 1913 or 1914. Original shows Engravings and printing by "Campbell Wilson Prop Ltd, Ballarat". See Other Information as well for more listing details. High Resolution image added 31/8/2012 of i2 of ESCo page and i3 for Ballarat identies and sheet i4 extracted for Mr Pringle. PDF scan of full document added 21/5/2019 - see images btm633-1i.pdf and btm633-2i.pdf Notes on "Ballarat Illustrated" Reg. Item No. 733 From notes made by Neville Gower 12/1/1997 Cover: Inside front cover: Last paragraph, "Facilities for Travelling" - Electric trams serve all parts of Ballarat. Page 3: Street Scene, Municipal Town Hall, showing tram wiring Page 7: Street Scene, Lydiard St. North, intersection and tramway centre, with ESCo tram No. 21 in the bottom photo. Other photos features trams as well in Sturt St and Lydiard St. North. Page 9: Street Scene, Top photo of Sturt St. from Lydiard St. looking east, shows piles on right-hand side of road. Car parked by Post Office has a car registration number "9007". Bottom photo, an tram climbing hill, shows double trolley in the street, with early English type of pull offs. Page 13: Street Scenes and Historic Buildings: One of five photos, shows Victoria St. looking East, with tram track prominent in photo and how stone work was set up about the rails and overhead poles. Page 23: Street scene, Gardens North Entrance gates, shows details of gates near St. Aidans Drive. Note double trolley wire on poles, and style of insulators. No trams in photo, three ladies walking down the track. Page 37: Street Scene; Lydiard St views, top left hand photo, shows Railway station and railway gates with signal gantry and horse drawn vehicles. Tram tracks apparent. Bottom left hand photo shows Lydiard St. North, near Post Office, double track with centre poles - Single wire per track. Top right hand photo, showing Cemetery gates in background. Bottom right hand photo - from north end of Lydiard St. South, looking north, with an ESCo tram in background. Also has a parked car on left hand side. Page 45: Street Scenes - Bridge St; top photo at west end of Bridge St. with ESCo No. 11 with possibly double trolley wire in photo. Bottom photo at east end of Bridge St. with tram in background, shows junction. Double trolley heading out to Mt. Pleasant, single trolley for Victoria St. Page 45: Street Scenes - Bridge St; top photo at west end of Bridge St. with ESCo No. 11 with possibly double trolley wire in photo. Bottom photo at east end of Bridge St. with tram in background, shows junction. Double trolley heading out to Mt. Pleasant, single trolley for Victoria St. Page 61: Street Scenes and Historic Buildings - Public Institutions Ballarat - top left hand photo of the Hospital shows some tram track in foreground, with double trolley wire. Top right photo is of the Orphanage, the name of the tram terminus for many years. Page 68: Electric Supply Co. of Victoria's pages - top photo showing powerhouse in background, across the lake, can hardly see anything for the trees, except for the chimney. Bottom photos of the steam Turbo Generators and the switchboard. Gives Mr. P.J. Pringle as Chief Engineer and General Manager. He took over in Jan. 1911. Page 69: Ballarat East Views - features photo of Black Hill open cut, Ballarat East Railway Station, Ballarat Fire Station and "Victoria St. looking East", repeat of photo printed on page 12, but slightly darker. Image on system includes fire station and railway station, - Ballarat East. Page 78: Series of photos of various Ballarat VIP's of the era, fourth one in on top line features "P.J.Pringle, Electric Supply Co." Inside Back cover - map of Ballarat including tram lines and places of interest marked in red. Gives a detailed photographic presentation of Ballarat in 1914.80 page book with, in addition, light green card covers, titled "Ballarat Illustrated". Loose copy of page 9 and 10 held.trams, tramways, ballarat, local history, heritage buildings, esco

Yields information about the reconstruction of the depot trackwork during 1935/1936 and the condition of the rails, types of rails and methodsSet of 5 Black and white photo prints from collected negatives of the relaying of the depot fan at the SEC Ballarat depot building, during refurbishment by the SEC during 1935 or 1936. 1351.1 - Wendouree Parade depot junction, track - relaying the 2nd set of points. One track was still useable at the time. Note fences and tools lying around the work area. 1351.2 - laying out the trackwork for two and three roads, note machines and cylinders in background. 1351.3 - looking along No. 2 road out of the depot doors, not connected, possibly taken some time after 1351.2, as the area appears to be cleaned up. 1351.4 - Photo showing the various rail weights for possibly the western rail on No. 3 road and how the fishplates were at the time of the photograph. Not known whether this was the final arrangement, taken looking towards the depot building. 1351.5 - ditto but from the other end - note the damaged flangeway on the depot end rail - horse tram rail? Copy 2 - of all above photos - large format prints (203H x 253W) - added 28/7/2007, ex Alan Bradley holding of prints, received 5/2007. See also Reg Item 3901 for a mounted set of these photographs along with those of Reg Item. 1352. Negatives scanned at high res and images updated 14/5/2020. tramways, trams, wendouree parade, sec depot, rehabilitation, trackwork

Yields information about the demolition or removal of the track along the Sebastopol line and how it was done.Black and White copy photograph of a newspaper photograph taken by The Courier - published 19/10/1971of Rail being removed from Albert St, Sebastopol, looking south and how it was done - not sure who was doing the work. Collected by Alan Bradley from the Ballarat Courier early 1980's. See Excel file "Record of Ballarat Courier Photos SEC era" (Archive Documents) for source of details.tramways, trams, sebastopol, track removal, closure, rails

Yields information about the dressing of a BTM tram in 2nd world war garb, white bumpers and headlight mask for the purposes of an exhibition. Demonstrates how the trams may have looked during the war period.Colour print (two copies) photograph of BTM tram No. 27 "dressed" in war time garb of white bumper bar, steps and headlight mask, photographed on the access track, c10/1995. White strips made with cardboard. See also Reg item 242. Photographed by Carolyn Dean.secv, ballarat, btm, world war ii., tram 27

Yields information the operation of electric trams in Sturt St Ballarat, the streetscape and the how the street was used by other vehicles and pedestrians.Black and White photograph of the streetscape of Sturt St, Ballarat looking east from the corner of Dawson and Sturt Streets with many people, horse drawn carts and a tram. Note the horse drawn cart in the bottom left hand corner is travelling on the "wrong side" of the road. Also shows the condition of the road surface, many pedestrians, ladies, and stores and shops on the north side of Sturt St. C1906. The tram has a front advertisement for something being held on a Saturday the Post Office in the far background. tramways, trams, sturt st, dawson st, horse drawn vehicle

Yields information about the lower end of Sturt St, the tram terminal, the waiting shelter, the streetscape and how the street was used at the time.Black and white photograph of Sturt St. looking west from Grenville St, post 1912? Shows two ESCo trams, with driver's windows, advertising boards and trams converted for one man operation adjacent to the Grenville St. shelter. A motorcar is parked on the north side of Sturt St (right hand side of photo). On the bottom of the item is the words "Two Views of Sturt St." Buildings of the west side of Sturt St - W. Owen Sports Depot, Suttons Pianos, Organs and Music and the Mechanic's Institute. See Further information for Alan Bradley's notes on the shelter - ex an email dated 30/7/2004, following an enquiry from Max Harris. See Reg Item No. 1671 for the other "Two Views of Sturt St." image. Copy 2 - added 29/7/2007 from Alan Bradley collection of photographs, to the depot 5/2007. On rear of copy 2 in pencil "Alan Bradley"tramways, trams, esco, sturt st., ballarat, grenville st

Yields information about the appearance of Bendigo electric trams at the time of opening, how passengers could be seated, staff, paint schemes, decorations, and truck arrangements.Black and White photograph of four trams at Charing Cross, taken from the south east corner, looking towards the Beehive building and Ezywalkin stores. Trams 7, 5 and 26 in the photograph. Photo by Andrew Ward 15.1.1972.On rear in ink "Sat 15.1.72" / "single truck car 7 and bogie cars 5 & 26" in the top left hand corner and in a mix of ink and pencil "Bendigo Trust / Andrew C. Ward, Bendigo Vic 3550".trams, tramways, bendigo, charing cross, pall mall, tram 7, tram 5, tram 26

Yields information the appearance of the SEC tramcar No. 23, which was often decorated in 1949 and the streetscape.Digital image from the Wal Jack Ballarat Album of trams No. 23 in Sturt St climbing the hill enroute to Gardens. Shows how the barrier rails were arranged. In front of the tram area a number of angle parked cars. In the rear are Patersons Furniture, Taylor and Taylor Chemists, Ballarat Fish Supply, Ritzy Cafe and Grill Rooms and a book store. The tram itself is looking shabby. Photo taken 20-3-1949. See image i2 for rear of photograph. See image i3 for hi res scan of print. See image i4 for hi res scan of negativeon rear of photo in ink, "SEC Ballarat, No. 23, in Sturt St, Ballarat 20-3-1949" and in top right hand corner Wal Jack copyright stamp with number "T99" written.trams, tramways, sturt st, city loop, tram 23

Yields information about the ESCo electric trams and the streetscape the Grenville St era and demonstrates how items were "photoshopped" or manipulated into the photo to make the street look busy.Photo montage of ESCo tram No 16, before windscreens (No 16) at Grenville St looking towards Town Hall. Four motor cars, and pedestrians have been added to the original photo to make the street "Look busy". On the reverse is a photo cropped at the top of Eureka Monument. The photo has buildings on the south side of Sturt St. in the view. Image re-scanned at high density 14-9-2013 and record checked. Two copies held.trams, tramways, sturt st, grenville st, ballarat trams, esco

Rate Book evidence records that by 1870 Charles Vickers, architect, was the occupier of this house, having an NA.V. at that date o f£1105, although it is apparent that the house was in fact built by 1864, from the dat; set in the brickwork above the main door. In 1873 the property was purchased by David Beath, a merchant, and it was in the following year that the house was first recorded as 'Ivy Grange'. Beath was a deeply religious man and was a foundation member of both the Congregational and the Presbyterian (the Church of Scotland) Churches of Kew . He added, probably the tower wing, to the house in 1877 when architects Crouch and Wilson called tenders in that year 'for the erection of bluestone additions to (a) villa at Kew, for Davis Beath Esq.' The house was again added to in 1885 by the leading firm Reed, Henderson and Smart. For a number of years in the 1920s 'Ivy Grange' was used as a private mental hospital and is currently a guest house. In 1921 a fete was held at Ivy Grange in aid of building a new church (Sacred Heart, Kew): "Garden Fete in Aid of New Church, Kew. A SUCCESSFUL FUNCTION. Beautiful weather favoured the opening of a garden fete at "Ivy Grange," the residence of Mr. and Mrs. J. Lawlor, Malmsbury and Princess streets, Kew, on last Saturday afternoon, in aid of the fine new Church of the Sacred Heart, Kew, which is now receiving its finishing touches. Not content to wait for the official opening, the lady stallholders did a good business on the previous evening. The ceremony was performed" by the Very Rev. Dean Hegarty, P.P., V.F. (Carlton), with whom were associated the Rev. J. Manly, P.P. (Kew), and the Rev. R. S. Benson, P.P. (South Yarra), Mr. and Mrs. J. Lawlor, and others. Fr. Manly, who was cordially received, said he desired to thank Mr. and Mrs. Lawlor for lending their charming grounds, and for the trouble, time and expense they had given to preparing for the fete. He wished to thank Dean Hegarty for coming to open the fete. The Dean had been a dear and lifelong friend of the late Fr. O'Donoghoe, the beloved pastor of the Kew parish. Next June the Dean would celebrate the golden jubilee of his priesthood, so they could see that he was not a young man. (Laughter.) He hoped that the fete would be a great success, and that when his Grace the Archbishop —: (applause) — should open the new church, he (the speaker) would be able to present a satisfactory financial statement. (Applause.) Dean Hegarty, who was very cordially received, said it was a source of great pleasure to him to come to Kew, of which he entertained many pleasant recollections. The new church would have delighted the heart of their late beloved pastor, but it had pleased God to take him to a holler temple. His mantle had fallen on worthy shoulders, in the person of Fr. Manly—(applause)—who was carrying on the work of the parish well and vigorously. (Applause.) Some wondered how these great works were successfully accomplished. The prime factor in the wonderful progress of the Church— the work of the people, priests and nuns—was their deep, abiding Catholic faith. (Applause.) Kew was not by any means a large parish, yet look at the magnificent church that Fr. Manly was building on the hill! He said to his people, "Come, follow me, and we shall win through." (Applause.) It gave him great pleasure to declare the fete open, and he wished it the highest measure of success. (Prolonged applause.) Mr. J. Lawlor, who was greeted with applause, in moving a hearty vote of thanks to Dean Hegarty for his presence and support, said he knew of the great work done by the Dean in Gippsland, where he (the speaker) lived when a young man. The Dean ministered to a parish at that time as large as was the diocese of Sale to-day. The Dean and Fr. Manly reflected credit on the pioneer priests, who had laid well and solidly the foundations, of religion in Victoria. (Applause.) He was glad that reference had been~made to the work of their late beloved pastor, Fr. O'Donoghoe. : Mr. Pierce Cody seconded the motion, which, was carried by acclamation. The Dean,* in acknowledging the compliment, paid a tribute to Mr. and Mrs. Lawlor for their great generosity in connection with the fete, and complimented them on their successful efforts. (Applause.). A cafe chantant, organised by Mr. John. Sullivan, was contributed to by Misses G. Hornal, M. O'Donnell, Ella Burke, Eileen Burke, Alice Marsh, and M. Carrucan, and Messrs. T. Hammond, J. Donovan, J. Sullivan, and Fr. Lanigan. Mrs. J. Donovan was at the piano. St. Vincent de Paul Boys' Orphanage Band (South Melbourne) rendered selections. The stalls ware as follow:—Cake and Sweets Stall: Mesdames Needham, Treacey, Lynch and Cody. Fancy Stall: Mesdames Lawlor, J. P. Martin, M. Treacey, Simpson, Giddons and A. Molton, and Miss, Shirley. Refrestiment Stall: Mesdames Shiels, Hunter, Kealy, Duane and the Misses Turner and Delahunty; Produce Stall: Mesdames O'Sullivan, Mareli, Carrucan, and Kennedy. Mr. P. J. Kennedy acted as hon. general secretary. The fete was continued in the evening, the grounds being brilliantly illuminated. (Advocate (Melbourne, Vic. : 1868 - 1954), Thursday 7 April 1921, page 13) In 1930 it was acquired by the Carmelite Fathers for use as a novitiate: "IVY GRANGE," KEW." Acquired for Carmelite Novitiate. The valuable property, "Ivy Grange," Kew. which" belonged to the McGuiness family has been acquired by the Carmelite Fathers for a novitiate." (Advocate (Melbourne, Vic. : 1868 - 1954), Thursday 18 September 1930, page 18This work forms part of the collection assembled by the historian Dorothy Rogers, that was donated to the Kew Historical Society by her son John Rogers in 2015. The manuscripts, photographs, maps, and documents were sourced by her from both family and local collections or produced as references for her print publications. Many were directly used by Rogers in writing ‘Lovely Old Homes of Kew’ (1961) and 'A History of Kew' (1973), or the numerous articles on local history that she produced for suburban newspapers. Most of the photographs in the collection include detailed annotations in her hand. The Rogers Collection provides a comprehensive insight into the working habits of a historian in the 1960s and 1970s. Together it forms the largest privately-donated collection within the archives of the Kew Historical Society.Ivy Grange, cnr Malmsbury and Princess Streets, Kew. Ivy Grange. Home of David Beath. Commenced 1864, Tower Wing added 1877. Chap 38.ivy grange, malmsbury street, dorothy rogers, david beath, charles vickers, crouch and wilson, kew houses

an historical look at military intelligence mishapsIn this controversial, eye-opening book, a long-serving professional military intelligence officer examines and analyzes the mistakes in military judgment that have resulted in some of the major catastrophes in the air, at sea, and on the battlefield since the crushing defeat of Napoleon at Waterloo in 1815. Colonel John Hughes-Wilson not only explores how events have conspired to cause disasters in modern military history but also demonstrates why -- and the reason more often than not lies in the failure of politicians and seasoned generals alike to understand and appreciate fully the value of crucial intelligence information. Hughes-Wilson shows how, for one instance, American bureaucratic bungling and inter-service rivalries collaborated with the Japanese in their devastating attack on Pearl Harbor -- despite the fact that the US was monitoring Japan's top-secret radio traffic -- and he reveals why, for another, the Viet Cong's Tet Offensive of 1968 took the world's most technologically advanced army completely by surprise. In Hitler's Berlin as in Saddam Hussein's Baghdad, this book discloses the lapses, errors, miscalculations, and under-estimations of military intelligence that have shaped our wars and defined our timessoft cover non fiction book

The children from Bulla and Mickleham Primary Schools were attending a school camp at Beechworth and while there they were taken to a fish hatchery to see how it functions.A non-digital coloured photograph of a man beside a pool and holding some matting and explaining its use while six children are looking on. Beyond the fenced off area is a building and picnic settings.school camps, beechworth, fish hatchery

Part of a selection of garments knitted by ‘Tina Knitwear’. Tina Knitwear was a successful made to order knitwear business in Brighton from the mid-1960s to around 2010, run by Assunta and Franco Liburti. Daughter Melissa Persi writes: Our parents Assunta (Mum) and Franco (Dad) Liburti ran a successful made to order knitwear business in Brighton from the mid-1960s to around 2010. Assunta was affectionately known to her family as Assuntina, therefore the business was named "Tina Knitwear" after her. Assunta and Franco were born in the beautiful seaside town of Terracina in Italy in 1933 and 1930 respectively. As was so common in Italy in the 1950s, Assunta who was in her late teens and early twenties learnt the intricate skills of machine knitting, dressmaking and pattern making. Franco on the other hand, learnt the building trade with his 2 brothers and specialised in bricklaying and tiling. As was so common after the war, Assunta and Franco yearned for a better life so they decided that they would get engaged and then migrate to Australia to be married and raise their family in Australia, a land of much opportunity which they no longer felt their beloved Italy held for them. Assunta migrated to Australia first in 1957 and later Franco joined her in 1958 where they were married. For the first few years, Franco (also known as Frank) worked as bricklayer /tiler on buildings such as the Robert Menzies building at Monash University in Clayton and various buildings in the Melbourne CBD. Assunta on the other hand put her machine knitting skills to use working in factories doing piece machine knitting for various knitwear companies. The hours were long, the conditions were difficult, and travel was onerous without a car. After their 2 older children were born, it was decided that dad would leave the building trade and they would start their own made to order knitwear business. That way they could work from home and raise their family together. Mum taught dad everything he needed to know so he could operate the knitwear machinery. They purchased COPPO knitting machines from Italy and a Linking machine from Germany. Initially they had a knitwear shopfront in Bay Street Brighton where a store assistant would take the orders and client’s measurements and Assunta would then make the garments from a small workshop in their home. Unfortunately, the assistants were not skilled dressmakers and often measurements and orders were incorrectly taken. Assunta being the perfectionist and highly skilled machinist that she was, decided that she needed to oversee the entire process from meeting the client, to taking their order, right thru to the fittings and completion of the garment. It therefore made sense that they should close the shop front and run their business from their own home in Brighton and hence “Tina Knitwear” was born. Together, for more than 40 years they ran their very respected and successful business and were well known in the Bayside area. They specialised in made to order knitwear for both men and women using mainly pure wool (from Patons, Wangaratta Mills, Japan and Italy) but also lurex and estacel. Over those years, many of their clients became their close friends. It wasn't unusual for clients to come to order garments and then end up in the kitchen chatting over a cup of Italian espresso coffee and homemade biscuits. Some of their clients were especially memorable and became lifelong friends. Mrs Connell was a dear friend of mum’s, each year she would buy tickets for the “Gown of the Year” fashion show. She would insist on taking Assunta and her 2 daughters so that we could see the latest fashions. Then there was their dear friend Ms Griffiths. She had been a Matron nurse at the Queen Victoria Hospital when she met my parents in the 1970s. She returned to live in New Zealand in the 1980s but came back to Melbourne every year to stay for 2 weeks with the sole purpose of visiting my parents (she adored them) and order garments. For those 2 solid weeks, mum and dad would only knit for Ms Griffiths and she would go back to New Zealand with at least 5 or 6 new outfits. I actually think she enjoyed mum’s homemade pasta almost as much as her new clothes! Over the years, my parents learnt to speak English very well given that majority of their clients were not Italian speaking. Their oldest child John born in 1960 learnt to speak English with the help of those clients who were such a big part of our childhood. Mum and dad always went above and beyond to ensure their clients were satisfied. Mum was an absolute perfectionist and it showed in her attention to detail and the quality of their beautiful work. You only need to look at the garments that have stood the test of time or speak to their clients to know that this is true. Their clients would always comment on how well their clothes would last and much of their clients came via word of mouth and recommendations. Occasionally there would be disagreements because mum had found an error in dad's knitting (either a wrong stitch or a sizing mistake mainly) and would ask him to redo a piece, he would argue back saying that it was fine, but we always knew who would win the argument and that the piece would get remade! Similarly, we recall discussions where mum would ask dad to find a particular colour of wool in the garage where the stock was kept. He would try to convince her that they were out of stock of that colour and that the client should choose a different colour. She would insist they had it and then after hours of searching, he would return into the house sheepishly holding the wool! Our childhood is full of beautiful memories of mum and dad always being present, clients coming and going, mum humming her favourite songs as she worked often late into the night and sometimes, we even fell asleep to the hum of the machinery. They put their heart and soul into "Tina Knitwear" and took pride in providing only the best quality garments for their clients. In Italian there is a saying “lei ha le mani d’oro” which literally translated means “she has hands of gold”. Franco enjoyed his work but for Assunta, it was more than just work and there is no better way to describe her skills, passion and dedication to her machine knitting… she truly did have “hands of gold”. We will forever be grateful that our parents’ life journey gave us the opportunity to live in a home filled with creativity, dedication and passion, amazing work ethic and mutual respect, lifelong friendships and a lifetime of love. Red ribbed skirt with elastic waistband.knitwear, clothing, italy, migrants, brighton, knitting machine, linking machine, garments, business, family, community

Part of a selection of garments knitted by ‘Tina Knitwear’. Tina Knitwear was a successful made to order knitwear business in Brighton from the mid-1960s to around 2010, run by Assunta and Franco Liburti. Daughter Melissa Persi writes: Our parents Assunta (Mum) and Franco (Dad) Liburti ran a successful made to order knitwear business in Brighton from the mid-1960s to around 2010. Assunta was affectionately known to her family as Assuntina, therefore the business was named "Tina Knitwear" after her. Assunta and Franco were born in the beautiful seaside town of Terracina in Italy in 1933 and 1930 respectively. As was so common in Italy in the 1950s, Assunta who was in her late teens and early twenties learnt the intricate skills of machine knitting, dressmaking and pattern making. Franco on the other hand, learnt the building trade with his 2 brothers and specialised in bricklaying and tiling. As was so common after the war, Assunta and Franco yearned for a better life so they decided that they would get engaged and then migrate to Australia to be married and raise their family in Australia, a land of much opportunity which they no longer felt their beloved Italy held for them. Assunta migrated to Australia first in 1957 and later Franco joined her in 1958 where they were married. For the first few years, Franco (also known as Frank) worked as bricklayer /tiler on buildings such as the Robert Menzies building at Monash University in Clayton and various buildings in the Melbourne CBD. Assunta on the other hand put her machine knitting skills to use working in factories doing piece machine knitting for various knitwear companies. The hours were long, the conditions were difficult, and travel was onerous without a car. After their 2 older children were born, it was decided that dad would leave the building trade and they would start their own made to order knitwear business. That way they could work from home and raise their family together. Mum taught dad everything he needed to know so he could operate the knitwear machinery. They purchased COPPO knitting machines from Italy and a Linking machine from Germany. Initially they had a knitwear shopfront in Bay Street Brighton where a store assistant would take the orders and client’s measurements and Assunta would then make the garments from a small workshop in their home. Unfortunately, the assistants were not skilled dressmakers and often measurements and orders were incorrectly taken. Assunta being the perfectionist and highly skilled machinist that she was, decided that she needed to oversee the entire process from meeting the client, to taking their order, right thru to the fittings and completion of the garment. It therefore made sense that they should close the shop front and run their business from their own home in Brighton and hence “Tina Knitwear” was born. Together, for more than 40 years they ran their very respected and successful business and were well known in the Bayside area. They specialised in made to order knitwear for both men and women using mainly pure wool (from Patons, Wangaratta Mills, Japan and Italy) but also lurex and estacel. Over those years, many of their clients became their close friends. It wasn't unusual for clients to come to order garments and then end up in the kitchen chatting over a cup of Italian espresso coffee and homemade biscuits. Some of their clients were especially memorable and became lifelong friends. Mrs Connell was a dear friend of mum’s, each year she would buy tickets for the “Gown of the Year” fashion show. She would insist on taking Assunta and her 2 daughters so that we could see the latest fashions. Then there was their dear friend Ms Griffiths. She had been a Matron nurse at the Queen Victoria Hospital when she met my parents in the 1970s. She returned to live in New Zealand in the 1980s but came back to Melbourne every year to stay for 2 weeks with the sole purpose of visiting my parents (she adored them) and order garments. For those 2 solid weeks, mum and dad would only knit for Ms Griffiths and she would go back to New Zealand with at least 5 or 6 new outfits. I actually think she enjoyed mum’s homemade pasta almost as much as her new clothes! Over the years, my parents learnt to speak English very well given that majority of their clients were not Italian speaking. Their oldest child John born in 1960 learnt to speak English with the help of those clients who were such a big part of our childhood. Mum and dad always went above and beyond to ensure their clients were satisfied. Mum was an absolute perfectionist and it showed in her attention to detail and the quality of their beautiful work. You only need to look at the garments that have stood the test of time or speak to their clients to know that this is true. Their clients would always comment on how well their clothes would last and much of their clients came via word of mouth and recommendations. Occasionally there would be disagreements because mum had found an error in dad's knitting (either a wrong stitch or a sizing mistake mainly) and would ask him to redo a piece, he would argue back saying that it was fine, but we always knew who would win the argument and that the piece would get remade! Similarly, we recall discussions where mum would ask dad to find a particular colour of wool in the garage where the stock was kept. He would try to convince her that they were out of stock of that colour and that the client should choose a different colour. She would insist they had it and then after hours of searching, he would return into the house sheepishly holding the wool! Our childhood is full of beautiful memories of mum and dad always being present, clients coming and going, mum humming her favourite songs as she worked often late into the night and sometimes, we even fell asleep to the hum of the machinery. They put their heart and soul into "Tina Knitwear" and took pride in providing only the best quality garments for their clients. In Italian there is a saying “lei ha le mani d’oro” which literally translated means “she has hands of gold”. Franco enjoyed his work but for Assunta, it was more than just work and there is no better way to describe her skills, passion and dedication to her machine knitting… she truly did have “hands of gold”. We will forever be grateful that our parents’ life journey gave us the opportunity to live in a home filled with creativity, dedication and passion, amazing work ethic and mutual respect, lifelong friendships and a lifetime of love. Red wide ribbed pleated skirt with a plain yoke, navy blue band at bottom edge and elasticated waistband. A purple x is located inside to mark centre back of skirt.knitwear, clothing, italy, migrants, brighton, knitting machine, linking machine, garments, business, family, community

Franco Liburti was wearing this coat when he farewelled his wife Assunta in Naples, Italy in 1957, the day she departed for Australia. Tina Knitwear was a successful made to order knitwear business in Brighton from the mid-1960s to around 2010, run by Assunta and Franco Liburti. Daughter Melissa Persi writes: Our parents Assunta (Mum) and Franco (Dad) Liburti ran a successful made to order knitwear business in Brighton from the mid-1960s to around 2010. Assunta was affectionately known to her family as Assuntina, therefore the business was named "Tina Knitwear" after her. Assunta and Franco were born in the beautiful seaside town of Terracina in Italy in 1933 and 1930 respectively. As was so common in Italy in the 1950s, Assunta who was in her late teens and early twenties learnt the intricate skills of machine knitting, dressmaking and pattern making. Franco on the other hand, learnt the building trade with his 2 brothers and specialised in bricklaying and tiling. As was so common after the war, Assunta and Franco yearned for a better life so they decided that they would get engaged and then migrate to Australia to be married and raise their family in Australia, a land of much opportunity which they no longer felt their beloved Italy held for them. Assunta migrated to Australia first in 1957 and later Franco joined her in 1958 where they were married. For the first few years, Franco (also known as Frank) worked as bricklayer /tiler on buildings such as the Robert Menzies building at Monash University in Clayton and various buildings in the Melbourne CBD. Assunta on the other hand put her machine knitting skills to use working in factories doing piece machine knitting for various knitwear companies. The hours were long, the conditions were difficult, and travel was onerous without a car. After their 2 older children were born, it was decided that dad would leave the building trade and they would start their own made to order knitwear business. That way they could work from home and raise their family together. Mum taught dad everything he needed to know so he could operate the knitwear machinery. They purchased COPPO knitting machines from Italy and a Linking machine from Germany. Initially they had a knitwear shopfront in Bay Street Brighton where a store assistant would take the orders and client’s measurements and Assunta would then make the garments from a small workshop in their home. Unfortunately, the assistants were not skilled dressmakers and often measurements and orders were incorrectly taken. Assunta being the perfectionist and highly skilled machinist that she was, decided that she needed to oversee the entire process from meeting the client, to taking their order, right thru to the fittings and completion of the garment. It therefore made sense that they should close the shop front and run their business from their own home in Brighton and hence “Tina Knitwear” was born. Together, for more than 40 years they ran their very respected and successful business and were well known in the Bayside area. They specialised in made to order knitwear for both men and women using mainly pure wool (from Patons, Wangaratta Mills, Japan and Italy) but also lurex and estacel. Over those years, many of their clients became their close friends. It wasn't unusual for clients to come to order garments and then end up in the kitchen chatting over a cup of Italian espresso coffee and homemade biscuits. Some of their clients were especially memorable and became lifelong friends. Mrs Connell was a dear friend of mum’s, each year she would buy tickets for the “Gown of the Year” fashion show. She would insist on taking Assunta and her 2 daughters so that we could see the latest fashions. Then there was their dear friend Ms Griffiths. She had been a Matron nurse at the Queen Victoria Hospital when she met my parents in the 1970s. She returned to live in New Zealand in the 1980s but came back to Melbourne every year to stay for 2 weeks with the sole purpose of visiting my parents (she adored them) and order garments. For those 2 solid weeks, mum and dad would only knit for Ms Griffiths and she would go back to New Zealand with at least 5 or 6 new outfits. I actually think she enjoyed mum’s homemade pasta almost as much as her new clothes! Over the years, my parents learnt to speak English very well given that majority of their clients were not Italian speaking. Their oldest child John born in 1960 learnt to speak English with the help of those clients who were such a big part of our childhood. Mum and dad always went above and beyond to ensure their clients were satisfied. Mum was an absolute perfectionist and it showed in her attention to detail and the quality of their beautiful work. You only need to look at the garments that have stood the test of time or speak to their clients to know that this is true. Their clients would always comment on how well their clothes would last and much of their clients came via word of mouth and recommendations. Occasionally there would be disagreements because mum had found an error in dad's knitting (either a wrong stitch or a sizing mistake mainly) and would ask him to redo a piece, he would argue back saying that it was fine, but we always knew who would win the argument and that the piece would get remade! Similarly, we recall discussions where mum would ask dad to find a particular colour of wool in the garage where the stock was kept. He would try to convince her that they were out of stock of that colour and that the client should choose a different colour. She would insist they had it and then after hours of searching, he would return into the house sheepishly holding the wool! Our childhood is full of beautiful memories of mum and dad always being present, clients coming and going, mum humming her favourite songs as she worked often late into the night and sometimes, we even fell asleep to the hum of the machinery. They put their heart and soul into "Tina Knitwear" and took pride in providing only the best quality garments for their clients. In Italian there is a saying “lei ha le mani d’oro” which literally translated means “she has hands of gold”. Franco enjoyed his work but for Assunta, it was more than just work and there is no better way to describe her skills, passion and dedication to her machine knitting… she truly did have “hands of gold”. We will forever be grateful that our parents’ life journey gave us the opportunity to live in a home filled with creativity, dedication and passion, amazing work ethic and mutual respect, lifelong friendships and a lifetime of love. Men's coat featuring a charcoal herringbone weave, with three buttons down the front and on each sleeve cuff.knitwear, clothing, italy, migrants, brighton, knitting machine, linking machine, garments, business, family, community, naples

Part of a selection of garments knitted by ‘Tina Knitwear’. Tina Knitwear was a successful made to order knitwear business in Brighton from the mid-1960s to around 2010, run by Assunta and Franco Liburti. Daughter Melissa Persi writes: Our parents Assunta (Mum) and Franco (Dad) Liburti ran a successful made to order knitwear business in Brighton from the mid-1960s to around 2010. Assunta was affectionately known to her family as Assuntina, therefore the business was named "Tina Knitwear" after her. Assunta and Franco were born in the beautiful seaside town of Terracina in Italy in 1933 and 1930 respectively. As was so common in Italy in the 1950s, Assunta who was in her late teens and early twenties learnt the intricate skills of machine knitting, dressmaking and pattern making. Franco on the other hand, learnt the building trade with his 2 brothers and specialised in bricklaying and tiling. As was so common after the war, Assunta and Franco yearned for a better life so they decided that they would get engaged and then migrate to Australia to be married and raise their family in Australia, a land of much opportunity which they no longer felt their beloved Italy held for them. Assunta migrated to Australia first in 1957 and later Franco joined her in 1958 where they were married. For the first few years, Franco (also known as Frank) worked as bricklayer /tiler on buildings such as the Robert Menzies building at Monash University in Clayton and various buildings in the Melbourne CBD. Assunta on the other hand put her machine knitting skills to use working in factories doing piece machine knitting for various knitwear companies. The hours were long, the conditions were difficult, and travel was onerous without a car. After their 2 older children were born, it was decided that dad would leave the building trade and they would start their own made to order knitwear business. That way they could work from home and raise their family together. Mum taught dad everything he needed to know so he could operate the knitwear machinery. They purchased COPPO knitting machines from Italy and a Linking machine from Germany. Initially they had a knitwear shopfront in Bay Street Brighton where a store assistant would take the orders and client’s measurements and Assunta would then make the garments from a small workshop in their home. Unfortunately, the assistants were not skilled dressmakers and often measurements and orders were incorrectly taken. Assunta being the perfectionist and highly skilled machinist that she was, decided that she needed to oversee the entire process from meeting the client, to taking their order, right thru to the fittings and completion of the garment. It therefore made sense that they should close the shop front and run their business from their own home in Brighton and hence “Tina Knitwear” was born. Together, for more than 40 years they ran their very respected and successful business and were well known in the Bayside area. They specialised in made to order knitwear for both men and women using mainly pure wool (from Patons, Wangaratta Mills, Japan and Italy) but also lurex and estacel. Over those years, many of their clients became their close friends. It wasn't unusual for clients to come to order garments and then end up in the kitchen chatting over a cup of Italian espresso coffee and homemade biscuits. Some of their clients were especially memorable and became lifelong friends. Mrs Connell was a dear friend of mum’s, each year she would buy tickets for the “Gown of the Year” fashion show. She would insist on taking Assunta and her 2 daughters so that we could see the latest fashions. Then there was their dear friend Ms Griffiths. She had been a Matron nurse at the Queen Victoria Hospital when she met my parents in the 1970s. She returned to live in New Zealand in the 1980s but came back to Melbourne every year to stay for 2 weeks with the sole purpose of visiting my parents (she adored them) and order garments. For those 2 solid weeks, mum and dad would only knit for Ms Griffiths and she would go back to New Zealand with at least 5 or 6 new outfits. I actually think she enjoyed mum’s homemade pasta almost as much as her new clothes! Over the years, my parents learnt to speak English very well given that majority of their clients were not Italian speaking. Their oldest child John born in 1960 learnt to speak English with the help of those clients who were such a big part of our childhood. Mum and dad always went above and beyond to ensure their clients were satisfied. Mum was an absolute perfectionist and it showed in her attention to detail and the quality of their beautiful work. You only need to look at the garments that have stood the test of time or speak to their clients to know that this is true. Their clients would always comment on how well their clothes would last and much of their clients came via word of mouth and recommendations. Occasionally there would be disagreements because mum had found an error in dad's knitting (either a wrong stitch or a sizing mistake mainly) and would ask him to redo a piece, he would argue back saying that it was fine, but we always knew who would win the argument and that the piece would get remade! Similarly, we recall discussions where mum would ask dad to find a particular colour of wool in the garage where the stock was kept. He would try to convince her that they were out of stock of that colour and that the client should choose a different colour. She would insist they had it and then after hours of searching, he would return into the house sheepishly holding the wool! Our childhood is full of beautiful memories of mum and dad always being present, clients coming and going, mum humming her favourite songs as she worked often late into the night and sometimes, we even fell asleep to the hum of the machinery. They put their heart and soul into "Tina Knitwear" and took pride in providing only the best quality garments for their clients. In Italian there is a saying “lei ha le mani d’oro” which literally translated means “she has hands of gold”. Franco enjoyed his work but for Assunta, it was more than just work and there is no better way to describe her skills, passion and dedication to her machine knitting… she truly did have “hands of gold”. We will forever be grateful that our parents’ life journey gave us the opportunity to live in a home filled with creativity, dedication and passion, amazing work ethic and mutual respect, lifelong friendships and a lifetime of love. Red and green plaid children's pinafore with green hem binding and in-built petticoat with lace edging.knitwear, clothing, italy, migrants, brighton, knitting machine, linking machine, garments, business, family, community

Part of a selection of garments knitted by ‘Tina Knitwear’. Tina Knitwear was a successful made to order knitwear business in Brighton from the mid-1960s to around 2010, run by Assunta and Franco Liburti. Daughter Melissa Persi writes: Our parents Assunta (Mum) and Franco (Dad) Liburti ran a successful made to order knitwear business in Brighton from the mid-1960s to around 2010. Assunta was affectionately known to her family as Assuntina, therefore the business was named "Tina Knitwear" after her. Assunta and Franco were born in the beautiful seaside town of Terracina in Italy in 1933 and 1930 respectively. As was so common in Italy in the 1950s, Assunta who was in her late teens and early twenties learnt the intricate skills of machine knitting, dressmaking and pattern making. Franco on the other hand, learnt the building trade with his 2 brothers and specialised in bricklaying and tiling. As was so common after the war, Assunta and Franco yearned for a better life so they decided that they would get engaged and then migrate to Australia to be married and raise their family in Australia, a land of much opportunity which they no longer felt their beloved Italy held for them. Assunta migrated to Australia first in 1957 and later Franco joined her in 1958 where they were married. For the first few years, Franco (also known as Frank) worked as bricklayer /tiler on buildings such as the Robert Menzies building at Monash University in Clayton and various buildings in the Melbourne CBD. Assunta on the other hand put her machine knitting skills to use working in factories doing piece machine knitting for various knitwear companies. The hours were long, the conditions were difficult, and travel was onerous without a car. After their 2 older children were born, it was decided that dad would leave the building trade and they would start their own made to order knitwear business. That way they could work from home and raise their family together. Mum taught dad everything he needed to know so he could operate the knitwear machinery. They purchased COPPO knitting machines from Italy and a Linking machine from Germany. Initially they had a knitwear shopfront in Bay Street Brighton where a store assistant would take the orders and client’s measurements and Assunta would then make the garments from a small workshop in their home. Unfortunately, the assistants were not skilled dressmakers and often measurements and orders were incorrectly taken. Assunta being the perfectionist and highly skilled machinist that she was, decided that she needed to oversee the entire process from meeting the client, to taking their order, right thru to the fittings and completion of the garment. It therefore made sense that they should close the shop front and run their business from their own home in Brighton and hence “Tina Knitwear” was born. Together, for more than 40 years they ran their very respected and successful business and were well known in the Bayside area. They specialised in made to order knitwear for both men and women using mainly pure wool (from Patons, Wangaratta Mills, Japan and Italy) but also lurex and estacel. Over those years, many of their clients became their close friends. It wasn't unusual for clients to come to order garments and then end up in the kitchen chatting over a cup of Italian espresso coffee and homemade biscuits. Some of their clients were especially memorable and became lifelong friends. Mrs Connell was a dear friend of mum’s, each year she would buy tickets for the “Gown of the Year” fashion show. She would insist on taking Assunta and her 2 daughters so that we could see the latest fashions. Then there was their dear friend Ms Griffiths. She had been a Matron nurse at the Queen Victoria Hospital when she met my parents in the 1970s. She returned to live in New Zealand in the 1980s but came back to Melbourne every year to stay for 2 weeks with the sole purpose of visiting my parents (she adored them) and order garments. For those 2 solid weeks, mum and dad would only knit for Ms Griffiths and she would go back to New Zealand with at least 5 or 6 new outfits. I actually think she enjoyed mum’s homemade pasta almost as much as her new clothes! Over the years, my parents learnt to speak English very well given that majority of their clients were not Italian speaking. Their oldest child John born in 1960 learnt to speak English with the help of those clients who were such a big part of our childhood. Mum and dad always went above and beyond to ensure their clients were satisfied. Mum was an absolute perfectionist and it showed in her attention to detail and the quality of their beautiful work. You only need to look at the garments that have stood the test of time or speak to their clients to know that this is true. Their clients would always comment on how well their clothes would last and much of their clients came via word of mouth and recommendations. Occasionally there would be disagreements because mum had found an error in dad's knitting (either a wrong stitch or a sizing mistake mainly) and would ask him to redo a piece, he would argue back saying that it was fine, but we always knew who would win the argument and that the piece would get remade! Similarly, we recall discussions where mum would ask dad to find a particular colour of wool in the garage where the stock was kept. He would try to convince her that they were out of stock of that colour and that the client should choose a different colour. She would insist they had it and then after hours of searching, he would return into the house sheepishly holding the wool! Our childhood is full of beautiful memories of mum and dad always being present, clients coming and going, mum humming her favourite songs as she worked often late into the night and sometimes, we even fell asleep to the hum of the machinery. They put their heart and soul into "Tina Knitwear" and took pride in providing only the best quality garments for their clients. In Italian there is a saying “lei ha le mani d’oro” which literally translated means “she has hands of gold”. Franco enjoyed his work but for Assunta, it was more than just work and there is no better way to describe her skills, passion and dedication to her machine knitting… she truly did have “hands of gold”. We will forever be grateful that our parents’ life journey gave us the opportunity to live in a home filled with creativity, dedication and passion, amazing work ethic and mutual respect, lifelong friendships and a lifetime of love. Maroon skirt with curved wrap detail with maroon and navy striped ribbing halfway around bottom. The skirt is shaped with darts, has an elastic waistband, and centre back opening with a zip and skirt hook. Maroon lining.knitwear, clothing, italy, migrants, brighton, knitting machine, linking machine, garments, business, family, community

Part of a selection of garments knitted by ‘Tina Knitwear’. Tina Knitwear was a successful made to order knitwear business in Brighton from the mid-1960s to around 2010, run by Assunta and Franco Liburti. Daughter Melissa Persi writes: Our parents Assunta (Mum) and Franco (Dad) Liburti ran a successful made to order knitwear business in Brighton from the mid-1960s to around 2010. Assunta was affectionately known to her family as Assuntina, therefore the business was named "Tina Knitwear" after her. Assunta and Franco were born in the beautiful seaside town of Terracina in Italy in 1933 and 1930 respectively. As was so common in Italy in the 1950s, Assunta who was in her late teens and early twenties learnt the intricate skills of machine knitting, dressmaking and pattern making. Franco on the other hand, learnt the building trade with his 2 brothers and specialised in bricklaying and tiling. As was so common after the war, Assunta and Franco yearned for a better life so they decided that they would get engaged and then migrate to Australia to be married and raise their family in Australia, a land of much opportunity which they no longer felt their beloved Italy held for them. Assunta migrated to Australia first in 1957 and later Franco joined her in 1958 where they were married. For the first few years, Franco (also known as Frank) worked as bricklayer /tiler on buildings such as the Robert Menzies building at Monash University in Clayton and various buildings in the Melbourne CBD. Assunta on the other hand put her machine knitting skills to use working in factories doing piece machine knitting for various knitwear companies. The hours were long, the conditions were difficult, and travel was onerous without a car. After their 2 older children were born, it was decided that dad would leave the building trade and they would start their own made to order knitwear business. That way they could work from home and raise their family together. Mum taught dad everything he needed to know so he could operate the knitwear machinery. They purchased COPPO knitting machines from Italy and a Linking machine from Germany. Initially they had a knitwear shopfront in Bay Street Brighton where a store assistant would take the orders and client’s measurements and Assunta would then make the garments from a small workshop in their home. Unfortunately, the assistants were not skilled dressmakers and often measurements and orders were incorrectly taken. Assunta being the perfectionist and highly skilled machinist that she was, decided that she needed to oversee the entire process from meeting the client, to taking their order, right thru to the fittings and completion of the garment. It therefore made sense that they should close the shop front and run their business from their own home in Brighton and hence “Tina Knitwear” was born. Together, for more than 40 years they ran their very respected and successful business and were well known in the Bayside area. They specialised in made to order knitwear for both men and women using mainly pure wool (from Patons, Wangaratta Mills, Japan and Italy) but also lurex and estacel. Over those years, many of their clients became their close friends. It wasn't unusual for clients to come to order garments and then end up in the kitchen chatting over a cup of Italian espresso coffee and homemade biscuits. Some of their clients were especially memorable and became lifelong friends. Mrs Connell was a dear friend of mum’s, each year she would buy tickets for the “Gown of the Year” fashion show. She would insist on taking Assunta and her 2 daughters so that we could see the latest fashions. Then there was their dear friend Ms Griffiths. She had been a Matron nurse at the Queen Victoria Hospital when she met my parents in the 1970s. She returned to live in New Zealand in the 1980s but came back to Melbourne every year to stay for 2 weeks with the sole purpose of visiting my parents (she adored them) and order garments. For those 2 solid weeks, mum and dad would only knit for Ms Griffiths and she would go back to New Zealand with at least 5 or 6 new outfits. I actually think she enjoyed mum’s homemade pasta almost as much as her new clothes! Over the years, my parents learnt to speak English very well given that majority of their clients were not Italian speaking. Their oldest child John born in 1960 learnt to speak English with the help of those clients who were such a big part of our childhood. Mum and dad always went above and beyond to ensure their clients were satisfied. Mum was an absolute perfectionist and it showed in her attention to detail and the quality of their beautiful work. You only need to look at the garments that have stood the test of time or speak to their clients to know that this is true. Their clients would always comment on how well their clothes would last and much of their clients came via word of mouth and recommendations. Occasionally there would be disagreements because mum had found an error in dad's knitting (either a wrong stitch or a sizing mistake mainly) and would ask him to redo a piece, he would argue back saying that it was fine, but we always knew who would win the argument and that the piece would get remade! Similarly, we recall discussions where mum would ask dad to find a particular colour of wool in the garage where the stock was kept. He would try to convince her that they were out of stock of that colour and that the client should choose a different colour. She would insist they had it and then after hours of searching, he would return into the house sheepishly holding the wool! Our childhood is full of beautiful memories of mum and dad always being present, clients coming and going, mum humming her favourite songs as she worked often late into the night and sometimes, we even fell asleep to the hum of the machinery. They put their heart and soul into "Tina Knitwear" and took pride in providing only the best quality garments for their clients. In Italian there is a saying “lei ha le mani d’oro” which literally translated means “she has hands of gold”. Franco enjoyed his work but for Assunta, it was more than just work and there is no better way to describe her skills, passion and dedication to her machine knitting… she truly did have “hands of gold”. We will forever be grateful that our parents’ life journey gave us the opportunity to live in a home filled with creativity, dedication and passion, amazing work ethic and mutual respect, lifelong friendships and a lifetime of love. Emerald green jumper with wide rib detailing, triangular detail at cuffs and hem and curved v neck. Shoulder seams are reinforced with woven tape.knitwear, clothing, italy, migrants, brighton, knitting machine, linking machine, garments, business, family, community

Part of a selection of garments knitted by ‘Tina Knitwear’. Tina Knitwear was a successful made to order knitwear business in Brighton from the mid-1960s to around 2010, run by Assunta and Franco Liburti. Daughter Melissa Persi writes: Our parents Assunta (Mum) and Franco (Dad) Liburti ran a successful made to order knitwear business in Brighton from the mid-1960s to around 2010. Assunta was affectionately known to her family as Assuntina, therefore the business was named "Tina Knitwear" after her. Assunta and Franco were born in the beautiful seaside town of Terracina in Italy in 1933 and 1930 respectively. As was so common in Italy in the 1950s, Assunta who was in her late teens and early twenties learnt the intricate skills of machine knitting, dressmaking and pattern making. Franco on the other hand, learnt the building trade with his 2 brothers and specialised in bricklaying and tiling. As was so common after the war, Assunta and Franco yearned for a better life so they decided that they would get engaged and then migrate to Australia to be married and raise their family in Australia, a land of much opportunity which they no longer felt their beloved Italy held for them. Assunta migrated to Australia first in 1957 and later Franco joined her in 1958 where they were married. For the first few years, Franco (also known as Frank) worked as bricklayer /tiler on buildings such as the Robert Menzies building at Monash University in Clayton and various buildings in the Melbourne CBD. Assunta on the other hand put her machine knitting skills to use working in factories doing piece machine knitting for various knitwear companies. The hours were long, the conditions were difficult, and travel was onerous without a car. After their 2 older children were born, it was decided that dad would leave the building trade and they would start their own made to order knitwear business. That way they could work from home and raise their family together. Mum taught dad everything he needed to know so he could operate the knitwear machinery. They purchased COPPO knitting machines from Italy and a Linking machine from Germany. Initially they had a knitwear shopfront in Bay Street Brighton where a store assistant would take the orders and client’s measurements and Assunta would then make the garments from a small workshop in their home. Unfortunately, the assistants were not skilled dressmakers and often measurements and orders were incorrectly taken. Assunta being the perfectionist and highly skilled machinist that she was, decided that she needed to oversee the entire process from meeting the client, to taking their order, right thru to the fittings and completion of the garment. It therefore made sense that they should close the shop front and run their business from their own home in Brighton and hence “Tina Knitwear” was born. Together, for more than 40 years they ran their very respected and successful business and were well known in the Bayside area. They specialised in made to order knitwear for both men and women using mainly pure wool (from Patons, Wangaratta Mills, Japan and Italy) but also lurex and estacel. Over those years, many of their clients became their close friends. It wasn't unusual for clients to come to order garments and then end up in the kitchen chatting over a cup of Italian espresso coffee and homemade biscuits. Some of their clients were especially memorable and became lifelong friends. Mrs Connell was a dear friend of mum’s, each year she would buy tickets for the “Gown of the Year” fashion show. She would insist on taking Assunta and her 2 daughters so that we could see the latest fashions. Then there was their dear friend Ms Griffiths. She had been a Matron nurse at the Queen Victoria Hospital when she met my parents in the 1970s. She returned to live in New Zealand in the 1980s but came back to Melbourne every year to stay for 2 weeks with the sole purpose of visiting my parents (she adored them) and order garments. For those 2 solid weeks, mum and dad would only knit for Ms Griffiths and she would go back to New Zealand with at least 5 or 6 new outfits. I actually think she enjoyed mum’s homemade pasta almost as much as her new clothes! Over the years, my parents learnt to speak English very well given that majority of their clients were not Italian speaking. Their oldest child John born in 1960 learnt to speak English with the help of those clients who were such a big part of our childhood. Mum and dad always went above and beyond to ensure their clients were satisfied. Mum was an absolute perfectionist and it showed in her attention to detail and the quality of their beautiful work. You only need to look at the garments that have stood the test of time or speak to their clients to know that this is true. Their clients would always comment on how well their clothes would last and much of their clients came via word of mouth and recommendations. Occasionally there would be disagreements because mum had found an error in dad's knitting (either a wrong stitch or a sizing mistake mainly) and would ask him to redo a piece, he would argue back saying that it was fine, but we always knew who would win the argument and that the piece would get remade! Similarly, we recall discussions where mum would ask dad to find a particular colour of wool in the garage where the stock was kept. He would try to convince her that they were out of stock of that colour and that the client should choose a different colour. She would insist they had it and then after hours of searching, he would return into the house sheepishly holding the wool! Our childhood is full of beautiful memories of mum and dad always being present, clients coming and going, mum humming her favourite songs as she worked often late into the night and sometimes, we even fell asleep to the hum of the machinery. They put their heart and soul into "Tina Knitwear" and took pride in providing only the best quality garments for their clients. In Italian there is a saying “lei ha le mani d’oro” which literally translated means “she has hands of gold”. Franco enjoyed his work but for Assunta, it was more than just work and there is no better way to describe her skills, passion and dedication to her machine knitting… she truly did have “hands of gold”. We will forever be grateful that our parents’ life journey gave us the opportunity to live in a home filled with creativity, dedication and passion, amazing work ethic and mutual respect, lifelong friendships and a lifetime of love. Children’s moss green knitted jumper with a peter pan collar, centre back zip and raglan sleeves.knitwear, clothing, italy, migrants, brighton, knitting machine, linking machine, garments, business, family, community

Part of a selection of garments knitted by ‘Tina Knitwear’. Tina Knitwear was a successful made to order knitwear business in Brighton from the mid-1960s to around 2010, run by Assunta and Franco Liburti. Daughter Melissa Persi writes: Our parents Assunta (Mum) and Franco (Dad) Liburti ran a successful made to order knitwear business in Brighton from the mid-1960s to around 2010. Assunta was affectionately known to her family as Assuntina, therefore the business was named "Tina Knitwear" after her. Assunta and Franco were born in the beautiful seaside town of Terracina in Italy in 1933 and 1930 respectively. As was so common in Italy in the 1950s, Assunta who was in her late teens and early twenties learnt the intricate skills of machine knitting, dressmaking and pattern making. Franco on the other hand, learnt the building trade with his 2 brothers and specialised in bricklaying and tiling. As was so common after the war, Assunta and Franco yearned for a better life so they decided that they would get engaged and then migrate to Australia to be married and raise their family in Australia, a land of much opportunity which they no longer felt their beloved Italy held for them. Assunta migrated to Australia first in 1957 and later Franco joined her in 1958 where they were married. For the first few years, Franco (also known as Frank) worked as bricklayer /tiler on buildings such as the Robert Menzies building at Monash University in Clayton and various buildings in the Melbourne CBD. Assunta on the other hand put her machine knitting skills to use working in factories doing piece machine knitting for various knitwear companies. The hours were long, the conditions were difficult, and travel was onerous without a car. After their 2 older children were born, it was decided that dad would leave the building trade and they would start their own made to order knitwear business. That way they could work from home and raise their family together. Mum taught dad everything he needed to know so he could operate the knitwear machinery. They purchased COPPO knitting machines from Italy and a Linking machine from Germany. Initially they had a knitwear shopfront in Bay Street Brighton where a store assistant would take the orders and client’s measurements and Assunta would then make the garments from a small workshop in their home. Unfortunately, the assistants were not skilled dressmakers and often measurements and orders were incorrectly taken. Assunta being the perfectionist and highly skilled machinist that she was, decided that she needed to oversee the entire process from meeting the client, to taking their order, right thru to the fittings and completion of the garment. It therefore made sense that they should close the shop front and run their business from their own home in Brighton and hence “Tina Knitwear” was born. Together, for more than 40 years they ran their very respected and successful business and were well known in the Bayside area. They specialised in made to order knitwear for both men and women using mainly pure wool (from Patons, Wangaratta Mills, Japan and Italy) but also lurex and estacel. Over those years, many of their clients became their close friends. It wasn't unusual for clients to come to order garments and then end up in the kitchen chatting over a cup of Italian espresso coffee and homemade biscuits. Some of their clients were especially memorable and became lifelong friends. Mrs Connell was a dear friend of mum’s, each year she would buy tickets for the “Gown of the Year” fashion show. She would insist on taking Assunta and her 2 daughters so that we could see the latest fashions. Then there was their dear friend Ms Griffiths. She had been a Matron nurse at the Queen Victoria Hospital when she met my parents in the 1970s. She returned to live in New Zealand in the 1980s but came back to Melbourne every year to stay for 2 weeks with the sole purpose of visiting my parents (she adored them) and order garments. For those 2 solid weeks, mum and dad would only knit for Ms Griffiths and she would go back to New Zealand with at least 5 or 6 new outfits. I actually think she enjoyed mum’s homemade pasta almost as much as her new clothes! Over the years, my parents learnt to speak English very well given that majority of their clients were not Italian speaking. Their oldest child John born in 1960 learnt to speak English with the help of those clients who were such a big part of our childhood. Mum and dad always went above and beyond to ensure their clients were satisfied. Mum was an absolute perfectionist and it showed in her attention to detail and the quality of their beautiful work. You only need to look at the garments that have stood the test of time or speak to their clients to know that this is true. Their clients would always comment on how well their clothes would last and much of their clients came via word of mouth and recommendations. Occasionally there would be disagreements because mum had found an error in dad's knitting (either a wrong stitch or a sizing mistake mainly) and would ask him to redo a piece, he would argue back saying that it was fine, but we always knew who would win the argument and that the piece would get remade! Similarly, we recall discussions where mum would ask dad to find a particular colour of wool in the garage where the stock was kept. He would try to convince her that they were out of stock of that colour and that the client should choose a different colour. She would insist they had it and then after hours of searching, he would return into the house sheepishly holding the wool! Our childhood is full of beautiful memories of mum and dad always being present, clients coming and going, mum humming her favourite songs as she worked often late into the night and sometimes, we even fell asleep to the hum of the machinery. They put their heart and soul into "Tina Knitwear" and took pride in providing only the best quality garments for their clients. In Italian there is a saying “lei ha le mani d’oro” which literally translated means “she has hands of gold”. Franco enjoyed his work but for Assunta, it was more than just work and there is no better way to describe her skills, passion and dedication to her machine knitting… she truly did have “hands of gold”. We will forever be grateful that our parents’ life journey gave us the opportunity to live in a home filled with creativity, dedication and passion, amazing work ethic and mutual respect, lifelong friendships and a lifetime of love. Sleeveless beige vest with four front self covered buttons. knitwear, clothing, italy, migrants, brighton, knitting machine, linking machine, garments, business, family, community

Part of a selection of garments knitted by ‘Tina Knitwear’. Tina Knitwear was a successful made to order knitwear business in Brighton from the mid-1960s to around 2010, run by Assunta and Franco Liburti. Daughter Melissa Persi writes: Our parents Assunta (Mum) and Franco (Dad) Liburti ran a successful made to order knitwear business in Brighton from the mid-1960s to around 2010. Assunta was affectionately known to her family as Assuntina, therefore the business was named "Tina Knitwear" after her. Assunta and Franco were born in the beautiful seaside town of Terracina in Italy in 1933 and 1930 respectively. As was so common in Italy in the 1950s, Assunta who was in her late teens and early twenties learnt the intricate skills of machine knitting, dressmaking and pattern making. Franco on the other hand, learnt the building trade with his 2 brothers and specialised in bricklaying and tiling. As was so common after the war, Assunta and Franco yearned for a better life so they decided that they would get engaged and then migrate to Australia to be married and raise their family in Australia, a land of much opportunity which they no longer felt their beloved Italy held for them. Assunta migrated to Australia first in 1957 and later Franco joined her in 1958 where they were married. For the first few years, Franco (also known as Frank) worked as bricklayer /tiler on buildings such as the Robert Menzies building at Monash University in Clayton and various buildings in the Melbourne CBD. Assunta on the other hand put her machine knitting skills to use working in factories doing piece machine knitting for various knitwear companies. The hours were long, the conditions were difficult, and travel was onerous without a car. After their 2 older children were born, it was decided that dad would leave the building trade and they would start their own made to order knitwear business. That way they could work from home and raise their family together. Mum taught dad everything he needed to know so he could operate the knitwear machinery. They purchased COPPO knitting machines from Italy and a Linking machine from Germany. Initially they had a knitwear shopfront in Bay Street Brighton where a store assistant would take the orders and client’s measurements and Assunta would then make the garments from a small workshop in their home. Unfortunately, the assistants were not skilled dressmakers and often measurements and orders were incorrectly taken. Assunta being the perfectionist and highly skilled machinist that she was, decided that she needed to oversee the entire process from meeting the client, to taking their order, right thru to the fittings and completion of the garment. It therefore made sense that they should close the shop front and run their business from their own home in Brighton and hence “Tina Knitwear” was born. Together, for more than 40 years they ran their very respected and successful business and were well known in the Bayside area. They specialised in made to order knitwear for both men and women using mainly pure wool (from Patons, Wangaratta Mills, Japan and Italy) but also lurex and estacel. Over those years, many of their clients became their close friends. It wasn't unusual for clients to come to order garments and then end up in the kitchen chatting over a cup of Italian espresso coffee and homemade biscuits. Some of their clients were especially memorable and became lifelong friends. Mrs Connell was a dear friend of mum’s, each year she would buy tickets for the “Gown of the Year” fashion show. She would insist on taking Assunta and her 2 daughters so that we could see the latest fashions. Then there was their dear friend Ms Griffiths. She had been a Matron nurse at the Queen Victoria Hospital when she met my parents in the 1970s. She returned to live in New Zealand in the 1980s but came back to Melbourne every year to stay for 2 weeks with the sole purpose of visiting my parents (she adored them) and order garments. For those 2 solid weeks, mum and dad would only knit for Ms Griffiths and she would go back to New Zealand with at least 5 or 6 new outfits. I actually think she enjoyed mum’s homemade pasta almost as much as her new clothes! Over the years, my parents learnt to speak English very well given that majority of their clients were not Italian speaking. Their oldest child John born in 1960 learnt to speak English with the help of those clients who were such a big part of our childhood. Mum and dad always went above and beyond to ensure their clients were satisfied. Mum was an absolute perfectionist and it showed in her attention to detail and the quality of their beautiful work. You only need to look at the garments that have stood the test of time or speak to their clients to know that this is true. Their clients would always comment on how well their clothes would last and much of their clients came via word of mouth and recommendations. Occasionally there would be disagreements because mum had found an error in dad's knitting (either a wrong stitch or a sizing mistake mainly) and would ask him to redo a piece, he would argue back saying that it was fine, but we always knew who would win the argument and that the piece would get remade! Similarly, we recall discussions where mum would ask dad to find a particular colour of wool in the garage where the stock was kept. He would try to convince her that they were out of stock of that colour and that the client should choose a different colour. She would insist they had it and then after hours of searching, he would return into the house sheepishly holding the wool! Our childhood is full of beautiful memories of mum and dad always being present, clients coming and going, mum humming her favourite songs as she worked often late into the night and sometimes, we even fell asleep to the hum of the machinery. They put their heart and soul into "Tina Knitwear" and took pride in providing only the best quality garments for their clients. In Italian there is a saying “lei ha le mani d’oro” which literally translated means “she has hands of gold”. Franco enjoyed his work but for Assunta, it was more than just work and there is no better way to describe her skills, passion and dedication to her machine knitting… she truly did have “hands of gold”. We will forever be grateful that our parents’ life journey gave us the opportunity to live in a home filled with creativity, dedication and passion, amazing work ethic and mutual respect, lifelong friendships and a lifetime of love. Red jumper with rounded v neck collar. knitwear, clothing, italy, migrants, brighton, knitting machine, linking machine, garments, business, family, community