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Kiewa Valley Historical Society
Tester Direct Current, mid 1900's
... is very significant to The Kiewa Hydro Electricity Scheme because ...This tester was used between 1950 and 1980's. As part of the Occupation, Health and Safety requirements, equipment used to monitor the performance of electricity producing generators, regularly, hand held testers were used to check the insulation and the "earth" pin were up the the required operational levels. As the generators and their ancillary monitoring equipment was spread over a large area and cumbersome to service small hand held devices were required. These had to always be safe for the user to operate. A selected range of high quality meters were recalibrated every two years in the Meter and Calibration Laboratory at Yarraville(near Melbourne) This meter is very significant to The Kiewa Hydro Electricity Scheme because it was an integral part of maintaining the electricity producing water driven generators of the power stations. The reason why this meter was so essential is that provided the safety check on equipment used to monitor each Hydro Generator that they were complying within the grid network parameters. Grid parameters are set so that if there is an electrical fault on the system, that fault can be attended to with a very small change in the output stability of each generator. It is essential that the voltage of the network remain within the set limits. Generators are at Dartmouth, Mackay, Clover, West Kiewa, Yarrawonga, Cain Curran and three Power Stations in the Thornton area.This hand driven current generator produces 500 volts by winding the handle(on funnel curved side) to keep the voltage constant(one minute per test). The whole body is made from caste aluminium. One of the functions of this meter is to test the isolation resistance of any equipment being tested. This is to see if that equipment is safe to handle(no electrical shocks). The second function is to test the earth pin of any portable electrical equipment. The turn key on one side can direct which function is required(marked insulation or continuity). On the top side(enclosed in a glass fronted marked scale) is a continuity scale(top) and an insulation scale(bottom). This is covered , when not in use by "flip up" lid with manufacturer's details and name of the instrument. Opposite the winder are two screw tight knobs. One marked earth(left side) and one marked line(right side). On the top and next to the glass windowed scales in a post manufacture SEC Vic equipment equipment ID number. For carrying purposes there is chromed steel (fold together) handle.The bottom of the unit has two metal "feet" 150mm long by 114mm wideManufacturer's details on top side "MEG" underneath "INSULATION AND CONTINUITY TESTER" below this "constant 500 VOLT pressure" below this "REGISTERED MEG MEGGER TRADE MARK" below this "REG DESIGN NO. 690326" below this "UNITED KINGDOM PATENT Nos. 193746, 197178, 198182, 202062, 202398, 204649, 350715" below this "SUPPLIED BY THE GENERAL ELECTRIC Co. Ltd OF ENGLAND" below this "MAGNET HOUSE, KINGSWAY LONDON W.C.2" 'sec vic kiewa hydro scheme, alternate energy supplies, alpine feasibility studies temperature, rainfall -
Kiewa Valley Historical Society
Case leather
... , equipment used to monitor the performance of electricity producing ...This case was used between 1950 and 1980's. As part of the Occupation, Health and Safety requirements, equipment used to monitor the performance of electricity producing generators, regularly, hand held testers were used to check the insulation and the "earth" pin were up the the required operational levels. As the generators and their ancillary monitoring equipment was spread over a large area and cumbersome to service small hand held devices were required. These had to always be safe for the user to operate. A selected range of high quality meters were recalibrated every two years in the Meter and Calibration Laboratory at Yarraville(near Melbourne)This leather case contains a meter which is very significant to The Kiewa Hydro Electricity Scheme because it was an integral part of maintaining the electricity producing water driven generators of the power stations. The reason why this meter was so essential is that provided the safety check on equipment used to monitor each Hydro Generator that they were complying within the grid network parameters. Grid parameters are set so that if there is an electrical fault on the system, that fault can be attended to with a very small change in the output stability of each generator. It is essential that the voltage of the network remain within the set limits. Generators are at Dartmouth, Mackay, Clover, West Kiewa, Yarrawonga, Cain Curran and three Power Stations in the Thornton area.This carry case is made from leather hide and cloth covered cardboard insert. The front side has a lockable English made suitcase fitting. It has a broken carry strap (leather) travelling from top and through leather strap holders both sides and on the bottom of the case. A State Electricity Commission of Victoria identification tag riveted onto the top lid "ELECTRICAL ENGINEERING SECTION No. 1483"sec vic kiewa hydro scheme, alternate energy supplies, alpine located electricity generators, mobile measuring equipment -
Kiewa Valley Historical Society
Black and White photograph of Road Making Machinery, Kiewa Road Making 25/08/1938 No. 2, 25/08/1938
Construction of the main road from South Tawonga to the Bogong High Plains, to provide access to the construction sites for the new Kiewa Hydro Electric Scheme, was commenced early in 1938, the work being undertaken on behalf of the commission by the Country Roads Board. For the construction work, the Commission purchased three Caterpillar - model R07 - diesel crawler tractors equipped with Kay Brunerei (Brunner) hydraulically operated trailbuilders (angle dozers). This acquisition resulted from a visit to the United States of America in May, 1937 by the Construction Engineer ( Mr. C.H. Kernot) and Assistant Civil Engineer ( Mr. J.F. Douglas) where they saw this relatively new type of equipment in use. With the co-operation of the CRB, the Commission demonstrated the operation of these machines at Fishermen's Bend on 6th April, 1938. They were then sent to Kiewa where they commenced operation towards the end of the month. From South Tawonga, the route let immediately across the Western Branch of the Kiewa River necessitating the construction of a bridge 100 feet long. By the end of 1939, the excavation had been 'opened up' for a distance of 19 1/2 miles (approx. 31 km.) and of this length, 10 miles (approx. 16 km.) had been surfaced. (see KVHS 0328)The purchase of this type of mechanical equipment in road making was a huge investment, as prior to this most of the work would have been done manually with the use of picks and shovels. Not only were many months of hard manual labour saved, but a very significant amount of time in providing access to the proposed work sites for the new Kiewa Hydro Scheme. This photo is an excellent reminder of how primitive the early machinery was compared to the present but also represents the forward thinking of the State Electricity Commissions engineers in purchasing such innovative equipment.A black and white photograph of road making near Mt. Beauty in 1938. Mount Beauty hills can be seen in the background with cleared land for grazing in the fore ground.Hand printed in black ink at the top of the photograph is 'Kiewa Road Making 25/8/1938'. On the right hand corner has been printed the number 2. It has been printed on gloss Velox paper.road making, state electricity commission, caterpillar tractor, kiewa, secv -
Kiewa Valley Historical Society
Transmission Line Connector, circa mid to late 1900's
... of hydro produced electricity from its mother power plant to its ...This line connector tool is part of the erecting of electricity cables from the power stations to the ultimate distribution sub stations throughout Victoria. It is used to extend cable length and secure cable to tower points. This type of equipment has been in use in this region since power production commenced in the 1950'sThis connection tool is a vital part in the distribution of hydro produced electricity from its mother power plant to its ultimate destination be it rural towns, industry or city. It has been used in the Kiewa valley and its Alpine regions.This power line connection tool was required to extend the length of the power line and is made up from a "compression sleeve" with its connecting lug and at the other end the suspension eye.Stamped on the compression sleeve "4/7/.1297"sec vic kiewa hydro scheme, alternate energy supplies, alpine population growth -
Kiewa Valley Historical Society
Meter Ammeter Recorder, Circa 1950
This testing voltmeter recorder was last certified by SEC Vic laboratories on the 17/4/77. It was used extensively as mobile recorder placed for periods of one month at locations experiencing unacceptable fluctuations of power. These locations would cover the North East regions of Victoria. They cover voltage drops at domestic and business properties especially those that were experiencing regular fluctuations(daily) at approximately the same time of the day. As the electrical network is required to operate within a set level of voltage, fluctuations outside of this has to be investigated and necessary remedial action taken. This is especially so for rural properties where power "drainage" can occur through animal/bird and tree interference. It can also be the result of defective wiring and overloading at peek operational times (milking machines).This mobile voltage recorder is very significant to the Kiewa Valley because it highlights the difficulties that can occur in maintaining a power supply that experiences fluctuating power demands by the rural industries that it supplies. The requirement of a mobile testing apparatus to cover the various sections in the Kiewa Valley and other rural areas in the northeast region is one of necessity as electricity once connected to a rural property is a labour saving supply as generators on rural properties require a higher degree of maintenance an ultimately at a higher cost. The testing of the SEC Vic supplied electricity to rural properties,those who had previously run on generators, had to be quick and unassuming with certainty of correct supply levels.The mechanism of this voltage recorder has been installed(by the manufacturer) into its own protective wooden box. This box has a front (swing open) lockable section which permits direct access to the installed measuring equipment (for servicing and data collection). The top section of the box has two screw on terminals for access to the machine being tested. This tester has its own inbuilt ink supply facilities and a mechanical clockwork device that unwinds a roll of paper onto a second roll at a rate of 10 mm per hour. The recording chart is marked with time slots against voltage. There is a recording arm which has an ink pen at the end. Both arm and pen carry the ink supply from the ink reservoir, located on the left side of the cabinet door in specially constructed bottle holder( three small bottle capacity). To record a suspect power problem to a home or business establishment the voltmeter is connected to a power supply outlet being tested and wind the recording clockwork mechanism (gives a four week running time). Before leaving the recorder in situ the electrician checks to see if the chart is recording the correct voltage and that the clock mechanism is advancing correctly.On the front of the access "door" at the top a metal label "RECORDING AMMETER" below this "MURDAY SYSTEM" below this "ALTERNATING CURRENT" and below this the manufacturer's registered number "No. 139156" Below this is a metal tag with State Electricity Commission of Victoria Electrical Engineer's Section equipment number "338" Below these tags and above the viewing window is the manufacturer's dtails "EVERSHED & VIGNOLES Led LONDON"sec vic kiewa hydro scheme, alternate energy supplies, alpine feasibility studies temperature, rainfall, power outages -
Kiewa Valley Historical Society
Case Volt Meter Recorder, Circa 1950 to 1977
This case is for a testing voltmeter recorder. The last time it was certified by SEC Vic laboratories on the 17/4/77. It was used extensively in the transportation of the mobile recorder which was sometimes placed for periods of one month at locations experiencing unacceptable fluctuations of power. These locations would cover the North East regions of Victoria. They cover voltage drops at domestic and business properties especially those that were experiencing regular fluctuations(daily) at approximately the same time of the day. As the electrical network is required to operate within a set level of voltage, fluctuations outside of this has to be investigated and necessary remedial action taken. This is especially so for rural properties where power "drainage" can occur through animal/bird and tree interference. See KVHS 0302 (A) for the instrument.This case for a mobile voltage recorder is very significant to the Kiewa Valley because it highlights the difficulties that can occur in maintaining a power supply that experiences fluctuating power demands by the rural industries that it supplies. The requirement of a mobile testing apparatus to cover the various sections in the Kiewa Valley and other rural areas in the northeast region is one of necessity as electricity once connected to a rural property is a labour saving supply as generators on rural properties require a higher degree of maintenance an ultimately at a higher cost. The testing of the SEC Vic supplied electricity to rural properties,those who had previously run on generators, had to be quick and unassuming with certainty of correct supply levels.This heavy and thick all leather case for the "easy" transportation of the Volt meter recorder has a opening top which pop riveted to the main body(rivets are aluminium). The all leather top has a shaped carrying handle which is also riveted on. There are two straps on the side of the top which can be fastened to the main body by metal "shoe" buckles. The bottom end is secured to the main bag by large rivets.Tick grade stitching is on all corners.Nilsec vic kiewa hydro scheme, alternate energy supplies, alpine growth in electricity consumption -
Kiewa Valley Historical Society
Black and White photograph of Road Making Machinery, Kiewa Road Making 25/8/1938(No. 3 in a series of 8), 25/08/1938
Construction of the main road from South Tawonga to the Bogong High Plains, to provide access to the construction sites for the new Kiewa Hydro Electric Scheme, was commenced early in 1938, the work being undertaken on behalf of the Commission by the Country Roads Board. For the construction work, the Commission purchased three Caterpillar - model R07 - diesel crawler tractors equipped with Kay Brunerei (Brunner) hydraulically operated trail builders (angle dozers)). This acquisition resulted from a visit to the United States of America in May, 1937 by the Construction Engineer ( Mr. C.H. Kernot) and Assistant Civil Engineer (Mr. J.F. Douglas) where they saw this relatively new type of equipment in use. With the co-operation of the CRB, the Commission demonstrated the operation of these machines at Fishermen's Bend on 6th April, 1938. They were then sent to Kiewa where they commenced operation towards the end of the month. From South Tawonga, the route led immediately across the Western Branch of the Kiewa River necessitating the construction of a bridge 100 feet long. By the end of 1939,the excavation had been 'opened up' for a distance of 19 1/2 miles (approx. 31 km.) and of this length, 10 miles (approx. 16 km) had been surfaced.The purchase and use of this type of mechanical equipment in road making was a huge investment, as prior to this most of the work would have been done manually with the use of picks and shovels. Not only were many months of hard manual labour saved, but a very significant amount of time in providing access to the proposed work sites for the new Kiewa Hydro Scheme. This photo is an excellent reminder of how primitive the early machinery was compared to the present but also represents the forward thinking of the State Electricity Commission's Engineers in purchasing such new and innovative equipment.A black and white photograph of a Caterpillar diesel crawler tractor and a hydraulically operated trailbuilder (angle dozer) making a road in the Mt. Beauty area.Hand written in black ink in the top left hand corner are the words "Kiewa Road Making 25/8/1938". On the upper right hand of the photograph has been stamped the number 3. On the back is stamped the word 'Velox' severaly times, which is the make of the photograhic paper. roadmaking, caterpillar tractor, kiewa, state electricity commission -
Kiewa Valley Historical Society
Black and white photograph of Surveyor's Camp, 1938, Kiewa River and surveyor's Camp 25/8/38, 25/08/1938
Surveying under the prevailing conditions at this time was an arduous and demanding task. There were no roads beyond Tawonga and access was by bridle tracks, on foot or horseback. This camp was to provide accommodation to those men who were surveying the road from South Tawonga to the Bogong High Plains which was commenced in April, 1938. The actual work was undertaken by the Country Roads Board, on behalf of the State Electricity Commission, using three Caterpillar diesel crawler tractors equipped with Kay Bruneriei (Brunner) lhydraulically operated trailbuilders (angle dozers)This photograph shows the primitive living conditions that were endured by those carrying out the initial field investigations and surveys for the Kiewa Hydro Electric Scheme. It is possibly one of the few photographs in existence of this camp and of the very rustic timber foot bridge across the West Kiewa river. It has been taken from approx. 100m up Simmonds Creek Road. A black and white photograph showing a small, timber foot bridge across the West Kiewa River. There is a man standing on the bridge and two small huts on the far side of the river, against a backdrop of Mt. Beauty and Mt. Bogong.At the top of the photograph, handwritten in black ink is the inscription "Kiewa River and Surveyor's Camp 25/8/38". The number 4 is stamped towards the right upper corner. On the back, in a circle, about 1.3cm in diameter, are the words "Kodak Print". The word "Velox" is faintly discernible on the back as well.surveyor, tawonga, west kiewa river, bridge, camp, secv -
Kiewa Valley Historical Society
Polisher Floor, Hoover Appliances, Meadowbank
... of the Victorian Hydro electricity installations, resulted in this rural ...This appliance was a time saving method of cleaning floors. It appeared at a time (after World War II) when the domestic pressures faced by mothers and domestic staff was on the increase. The necessary "working parents" was through necessity becoming part of the "typical" family environment. It was the start of the ever increasing demand, from an economical reason, for both parents to work outside their property. Historically the period of the 1950s was one of extreme changes. It was an era where established role models were under pressure from an ever increasing demand for new and advancing consumerism. Communication levels via radio, newspapers and television was expanding at an ever increasing rate. Relatively isolated rural areas were opening up (post war) to foreign ideologies of consumerism. The basic restraints of "this will be alright mate, she'll do" was under a slow but effective take over. "I can get this done faster by this new whiz bang gadget that I saw on the TV last night!" was the new way to live by.This item is very significant in that it demonstrates the new consumerism at its infant stage of the social changes occurring due to greater communication levels between the rural Australian communities and other advancing communities world wide. The Kiewa Valley residents (mainly from the intermingling of rural and post World War II refugees working at the construction of the Victorian Hydro electricity installations, resulted in this rural area becoming integrated to new ways of living (both socially and economically). Once the attitude of "we have always done it this way mate!" was challenged and overcome, the acceptance of new time saving "gadgets" which started to pour in from foreign markets, the relative isolation of the Kiewa Valley (being mainly psychological entrenched), was over.This hoover electric floor scrubber and polisher has a main base containing two brushes (can be replaced with polishing pads). The two brushes/pads are fastened or removed from the base unit by pulling/pushing the heads from the small hexagonal shaft on the bottom of the machine motor. A pressure sensitive wire is inlaid at the brush/pad end to hold the brush/pad unit onto the shaft. The discs body and main body covering the electric motor are made from sturdy plastic. The rest of the appliance materials i.e. upright handle and the u framed attaching arm are made from lightweight powder coated steel. A small (350mm) red coloured foot switch protrudes from the back of the motor to release the the upright handle from the storage position to the action position.There are two fork shaped brackets on the rear of the handle, for securing the 6.5 metre long electrical cord and plug. There is no on/off switch on the appliance. A small stainless steel "u" framed clip (for hanging the appliance in the vertical position) for cupboard storage. Within the circle of the cleaning brush is stamped "1 above S.A.B.351" and on the opposite side P/No: 5023792". On the main plastic head of the brush discs are "TO CLEAN" and under this "USE ONLY WARM(underlined) WATER AND SOAP" on the opposite side, and within a circle is the Hoover Trademark. On the front of the blue coloured plastic dome covering the electric motor is (on a raised domed shaped plaque (on a red background) Hoover in slanted print from left to right(in a diagonal level)domestic appliances, floor cleaning, electric floor scrubbers and polishers -
Kiewa Valley Historical Society
Projector - 'Pictoral' Bogong State School, 1925 - 1935
As Bogong State School was located in a remote area especially in winter when the weather and therefore the road isolated the school for an indefinite time, the school was provided with up to date equipment with a comprehensive library and educational films that wouldn't disadvantage the students. Educational films covered all subjects and areas of the curriculum. The projector was very modern at the time. The Society for Visual Education Inc was founded in 1919 as a for-profit educational publisher dedicated to the use of new technologies in teaching.This projector was used at the Bogong State School which opened in 1941 for the children of the employees of the State Electricity Commission of Victoria who were working on the Kiewa Hydro Electric Scheme. The school was outstanding as reported by the school inspectors regarding the education of the pupils which was also supported by new and modern equipment. The nearest school was 14 km away over a dirt road that wound around the Victorian mountains and often closed due to bad weather. Bakelite box holding a globe and a small black tin projector on brown rectangular bakelite base with 4 round rubber stands at each corner. It is able to be moved upwards from the front to adjust the height within a cm. The back is a tall irregular box shape with ventilation on 2 sides of the bottom and at the top. There is a brass plaque attached above 1 vent and an electric cord, with switch, below it. Attached at each side of the front of this box is a cylinder fitted horizontally facing the front where the lense is fitted. At right angles above there is another cylinder, hollow, with a rod for the film to be placed. Globe also in Bakelite boxPlaque: Pictorial Projector / Model Q / 120 Volts. 100 Watts / No. 23736 / Manufactured / Society of Visual Education Inc. / Chicago U.S.Aprojector, bogong primary school, education, educational films, visual education, kiewa hydro electric scheme -
Kiewa Valley Historical Society
Folder - Local Area Study of Mt Beauty, Local Area Study of Mt Beauty by a student, David, with acknowledgement to Alex McCullough & Mr C. De-Goi
The History of Mt Beauty is about the unique development of a construction town built in the 1940s by the State Electricity Commission of Victoria during the construction of the Kiewa Hydro Electric Scheme. This history gives an insight into a student's understanding and areas of interest in the development of Mt Beauty.Black plastic cover with three fasteners holding 188 pages with black print, photos and diagrams.'Ticks' have been added by the teacher on many of the pages. On the back of the last page: Teacher's comments and mark 195/200.history of mt beauty, secv, khes, alex mccullough -
Kiewa Valley Historical Society
Papers - History of the Shire of Bright taking over Mt Beauty from the State Electricity Commission of Victoria
Mt Beauty township was built as a construction town by the SECV for their workers on the Kiewa Hydro Electric Scheme. In Oct. 1957 the Bright Shire agreed to take over the running of the town At the time it was thought that the section of 'North Mt Beauty ' would disappear. By 1961 and again in 1975, the Shire was still struggling with money for administration and maintenance of the town, including the 'sub-standard' homes in North Mt Beauty. The papers state the agreements made over the years from 1957 to 1975 in order to come to a new agreement.Correspondence between the SEC and the Bright Shire in 1975 confirms that the Shire was struggling to maintain the high standard with increased costs, set by the SEC during construction. "Mt Beauty provides less income to the Shire and offers a poor medium for the reception of grants and CRB assistance'. The papers state the agreements made over the years from 1957 to 1975 with negotiations for a new agreement. This still seems to be a problem in 2021 - a second rate town compared to Bright which makes more money and gets more facilities.A variety of foolscap size papers bound by a rusty fastener. Includes letters re Municipal Administration of Mt Beauty township since the A few pages are hand written.mt beauty township, bright shire, municipal administration of mt beauty, alex mccullough -
Kiewa Valley Historical Society
Photograph Bogong, Bogong Township Circa 1950, circa 1940s to 1950s
The Bogong Village was originally constructed (1937-1940) by the State Electricity Commission to house, engineers and construction workers working on the Kiewa Hydroelectric Scheme. These workers were initially settled in 26 houses and were mainly of European heritage. At the completion of the scheme, in the 1960's, the village was opened to public/tourism use. This photograph shows the village before beautification for tourism was introduced and "bare bones" homes and village usage existed.This photo clearly presents a period of restricted human occupation of a very fragile Alpine environment(up to 4000 workmen involved). This was the beginning of a planned and controlled form of sustainable tourist orientated development of the Victorian Alps and high plains region. The Bogong Township was the base camp for workers employed by the State Electricity Commission. After the construction phase was completed, the planning and controls originating from this period have been modified to allow a greater public access of this unique environment.Photograph of a framed glass enclosed black and white photograph of the Bogong settlement Paper details "KodakXtraLife paper" on back of photo. bogong village, bogong township, sec alpine constructions, hydro, kiewa scheme -
Kiewa Valley Historical Society
R.A.O.B. Members' Board
Originated in the United Kingdom in 1822 with a motto "No Man Is At All Times Wise" and a maxim of "Justice, Truth and Philanthropy". A branch of the Royal Antediluvian Order of Buffaloes was formed at Bogong by Grand Lodge Officers from Melbourne and other members. The ceremony was held at Lewis Camp Mess (Kiewa Hydro Electric Scheme) with a world record of 78 new members initiated and a world record of over 100 pounds was raised. Another branch, No. 150, was opened in Mt Beauty. The Bogong and Mt Beauty lodges combined in 1948 and organised a Christmas treat for all children of the State Electricity Commission of Victoria working on the Kiewa Hydro Electric Scheme.Historical: The Bogong R.A.O.B. was formed circa Sept. 1946 and the Mt Beauty R.A.O.B. in 1948. The Members Board, the 78 members initiated and the money raise indicate that it was a popular organisation in Bogong and then in Mt Beauty during the construction of the Kiewa Hydro Electric Scheme. This club also shows how important social clubs were in making up part of the community thus making it socially historic as well. This board has good interpretive capacity as it tells the story of this club which was important to the community at the time. Large hollow wooden box with 2 wooden doors at the front that open out the from centre to a hollow box. Attached to the front of the box, at the top, is a wooden decoration with curved edges along the top. In the centre of this are the letters R.A.O.B.- the letters having been carved out of the wood and then filled with a different wood. Both doors have steel attachments and a locked padlock hangs on the door on the left. Inside the box is a white paper sign with black writing backed onto masonite. Inside the right hand side door a coloured paper sign is attached."R.A.O.B." top centre of box. "Royal Antediluvian Order of Buffaloes" etc. on black and white sign inside box. "Mt Beauty Lodge No. 150. This is to certify that Brother (blank) initiated into ...on 19th March 1949 ....signed by Chas / Chris A. Angus, Secretary" on coloured paper inside right hand side door.royal antediluvian order of buffaloes. bogong. mt beauty. charitable organisation. kiewa hydro electric scheme. lewis camp mess, clubs, societies -
Kiewa Valley Historical Society
Calendar Desk Perpetual, circa mid 1950s
... that the time before the Hydro electricity generators where built (Mount ...This item appears to be a calendar which was in use for a multiple clientele office e.g. post office, commercial office or bank, school or educational administration area, small government office or hospital administration in the Kiewa Valley or its region. The time this item was first used, electrical or battery powered desk and office calendars did not exist for semi isolated rural regions. These type of perpetual calendars not only looked impressive but were not affected by power shortages. This was a time when not all of Victoria was adequately supplied by power. This item is quite relevant to the Kiewa Valley as it demonstrates that the time before the Hydro electricity generators where built (Mount Beauty to Falls Creek), power supplies were not keeping up to the ever increasing demand from city and rural customers. This item was in a period before mass produced automated date and time pieces were available and hand operated date and time pieces were both in a social and commercial sphere a necessity.Wooden box (varnished) with three openings (on the front) detailing ,the day(Monday to Sunday), the date (1st to 31st) and the month (January to December). On the right side of the calendar box are two winding screws (RHS 6 steel) for each opening. These permit the scrolling of the information i.e. day, number and month. This ability results in a desk calendar which is perpetual. On the back there is a steel (screwed on) hanger with a slot for wall screw.perpetual calendar, office calendars, desk calendars, desk furniture -
Kiewa Valley Historical Society
Photograph of Clover Power Station, No. 3 Power Station, after May 1944
In July, 1941 work commenced on the site of the power station with the building of a coffer dam and excavation for the power station building and machine foundations followed. Work proceeded, and the access bridge, transformer foundations and transfer track were completed in April, 1943 and the power station building in May, 1943. Installation of the machines was then proceeded with and No. 1 machine was run for the first time in June 1944. No. 2 machine was completed in April, 1944 and placed in service in May.A pictorial record for the State Electricity Commission of the first Power Station commissioned in the Kiewa Hydro Electric Scheme.Black and white photograph of the bridge and entrance to No. 3 Power Station (Clover Power Station).Handwritten on back of photograph in blue ink "No. 3 Power Station".clover, power station, machine, kiewa scheme -
Kiewa Valley Historical Society
Box First Aid, Snake and Spider Outfit, Circa 1940's
... were issued to workers on the Kiewa Hydro Electricity Scheme ...At the time of manufacture, circa 1940's, the first aid treatment for snake bites, was to lance(cut) open the bite, wash it out and apply a ligature or tourniquet between the bite and the heart. This method was abandoned later after scientific evidence suggested that it was better to stop the blood system from carrying the poison to the heart (pressure immobilization). Australian snakes do not have long fangs therefore deep incisions into main arteries is rare. This research took many years to develop therefore the information supplied with the "Sanax" kits of this era is well outdated. Rural areas were more attuned to the possibilities of snake activity on farms, in sheds and in out houses and farm homesteads. This was not the case for mainly city and large townships environments. The mice plagues in wheat areas during the warmer month s has always been a high risk time for encountering snakesThese snake bite kits were issued to workers on the Kiewa Hydro Electricity Scheme. Some of these snake bite kits were kept at doctor's surgeries e.g. Bogong Village, House 13. The kit was carried by bushwalkers, scouts, farmers and high plains cattlemen. This item is of significance because it demonstrates the main dangers faced by all rural industries and towns, especially remote areas, and the portable remedies that where required as a necessity of the Australian bush environment. This item was in use at a time when the air ambulance and rescue facilities were not in existence and remote locations were more isolated and the availability of anti venom was hard to obtain locally.This item is a red coloured cardboard box(250 - 300 g/m) with white writing and containing the following 12 items. 7 clear red coloured capsules, 2 opaque red plastic capsules, 2 wooden capsules and 1 brass screw on capsule. The capsules are divided into two sections (compartments) horizontally. Each compartment has a screw lid. One compartment contains a lancet (for piercing the snake bite) and the other compartment contains the "Condy's" crystals compete with tightly rolled instructions.On top of the pull up lid, and flanked by two coiled snakes (at the strike position) is printed: "Trade Sanax Mark" below this " SNAKE and SPIDER BITE OUTFIT" and below this with instructions for use". Front side: "Sanax snake and spider bite outfit" underneath "Nepean Highway Morabbin" The later printing has been severely scratched but decipherable. The back side of the box has "Note to the retailer" and due to wear no more of the writing can be read. Each side of the box is printed "SANAX" snake, spider, first aid, kiewa hydro scheme, portable medical supplies -
Kiewa Valley Historical Society
Functional object - Pocket First Aid, Circa mid 1900s
... until the mid 1900s when the Hydro Electricity Schemes were ...This pocket First Aid kit is small and compact which became available to those venturing out in the outback and required an easily managed first aid kit. It was manufactured in the mid 1900s well before vinyl and or plastic pouches or bags where used. It was in an era where valuable items were stored in durable containers due to the harsh and rugged conditions of the Australian bush. Cheaper and less durable containers from Asian manufacturers had been kept out by the heavy Tariff imposed on their goods. This changed in the 1980's when the Tariff Board was dismantled by a then Labour Government. The Australian manufacturing industry was severely reduced by the Influx of cheaper goods. This item was made by an Australian company when the motto "true blue" was the catch cry for quality Australian made goods. This was in the period where the isolation of many rural communities required the basic first aid kits to be of a tougher quality than those offered in large cities and towns.This pocket first aid kit was very compact and would have been easy to carry without taking up too much space for bush walkers, camping scouts, drovers and independent miners and cattlemen. The Kiewa Valley and surrounding rural settlements did not have the medical backup that the larger cities and towns had up until the mid 1900s when the Hydro Electricity Schemes were built and the additional influx of workers made it feasible to have a hospital and better local health facilities. This influx of the construction workers associated with the Hydro Scheme. also brought European workers who where more inclined to go bush walking and climbing the Victorian alps than the average Australian rural worker. This item is a Sanax pocket first aid round tin, gold in colour with red and white print. It's contents are: one small tube of Sanax antiseptic cream, one small one inch x six yards of gauze bandages, rubber band type ligatures with a cast iron tightener., one small tweezers three safety pins, and one lancet.On the lid there are: are outlined white cross on a blue circular background. underneath is a whiite circle encased with a red line with the following printed "Sanax pocket first aid case" (in red print underneath this is a small curved blue background and in black print "No. 26"medicine, first aid tin, camping medical supplies, personal first aid, sanax -
Kiewa Valley Historical Society
Black and white photograph of farmland, Kiewa, 25/8/38, circa 1938
This photograph was taken in August, 1938 some eight years prior to the establishment of Mt. Beauty as a township. The area was still being used for grazing, and the land was eventually acquired from the local land owners by the State Electricity Commission. The construction of the road, from Tawonga to the High Plains, was commenced in April of this year. This allowed men and heavy equipment to be transported to the work sites for the construction of the Kiewa Hydro Electric Scheme This photograph is important as it shows the upper Kiewa Valley as it was before the establishment of the town of Mt. Beauty. The land has been cleared of natural growth and has been used for grazing cattle. By 1946 housing construction had commenced for the new town of Mt. Beauty and by 1948 street construction in the southern part of the town was completed as far as Hill Street.A black and white photograph of farmland with Mt. Emu in the background. This has been taken from where Mt. Beauty township now stands prior to road making and the erection of houses. A line of trees below the hill line indicates the position of the East Kiewa River. (No. 5 in a set of 8) Handwritten in black ink on the upper left corner of the photograph is the inscription 'Kiewa 25/8/38' and the number 5 has been stamped on the upper right hand corner. On the back is the word 'Velox' which is the name of the photographic paper on which the photo was developed.road construction, kiewa, tawonga, mt. beauty, secv -
Kiewa Valley Historical Society
Black and white photograph of farmland, Kiewa, 25/8/38, circa 1938
This photograph was taken in August, 1938 at the time of road making in the area and some eight years prior to the establishment of Mt. Beauty township. The area was still being used for grazing, and the land was eventually acquired from the local land owners by the State Electricity Commission. The construction of the road, from Tawonga to the High Plains, was commenced in April of this year. This allowed men and heavy equipment to be transported to the work sites for the construction of the Kiewa Hydro Electric Scheme. An important photograph as it shows the upper Kiewa Valley as it was before the establishment of the town of Mt. Beauty. The land had been cleared of natural growth and has been used for grazing cattle. By 1946 housing construction had commenced for the new town of Mt. Beauty and by 1948 street construction in the southern part of the town was completed as far as Hill Street.A black and white photograph taken in the upper Kiewa Valley showing farmland with a group of three unidentified people sitting on the grass.Handwritten in black ink is the inscription 'Kiewa 25/8/1938'. In the right corner of the photograph has been stamped the number 6. On the back in a circle, some 14mm across, are the words 'Kodak Print'. The word Velox is also printed on the back.kiewa, mt. beauty, construction, grazing, secv -
Kiewa Valley Historical Society
Black and white photograph of farmland, Kiewa, 25/8/38, circa 1938
This photograph was taken in August, 1938, some eight years prior to the establishment of Mt. Beauty a a township. The area was still being used for grazing, and the land was eventually acquired from the local land owners by the State Electricity Commission. The construction of the road, from Tawonga to the High Plains, was commenced in April, 1938 and this photograph was taken August, 1938. This allowed men and heavy equipment to be transported to the work sites for the construction of the Kiewa Hydro Electric Scheme. Prior to this access was by bridle trail, either on horse back or on foot. By 1946 housing construction had commenced for the new town of Mt. Beauty and by 1948 street construction in the southern part of the town was completed as far as Hill Street.This photograph is important as it shows the upper Kiewa Valley as it was before the establishment of the town of Mt. Beauty. The land has been cleared of natural vegetation to allow grazing of cattle. Black and white photograph of grazing farmland with one animal standing in the paddock. The area could possibly be where the golf course now stands with the road to the high plains not yet commenced.Handwritten in the upper left hand corner 'Kiewa 25/8/38'. The number 7 has been stamped in the upper right hand corner. It is part of a set of 8 photographs. On the back are the words Velox repeated several times, indicating the type of photographic papergrazing, kiewa, mt. beauty, secv -
Kiewa Valley Historical Society
Photograph Farm Land, Kiewa, 25/8/38, circa 1938
This photograph was taken in august, 1938 some eight years prior to the establishment of Mt. Beauty as a township. The area was still being used for grazing cattle and the land was eventually acquired from the local land owners by the State Electricity Commission. The construction of the road, from Tawonga to the High Plains, was commenced in April of 1938. This allowed men and heavy equipment to be transported to the work sites for the construction of the Kiewa Hydro Electric Scheme. Prior to this access was by bridle trail, either on horse back or by foot. By 1946 housing construction had commenced for the new town of Mt. Beauty and by 1948 street construction in the southern part of the town was completed as far as Hill Street.This is an important photograph as it shows the upper Kiewa Valley and the site for Mt. Beauty as it was before the establishment of the town. The land has been cleared of natural vegetation and used for grazing cattle.Black and white photograph of farmland, cattle in the distance, hills in the backgroundHandwritten in the upper left hand corner, in black ink, 'Kiewa 25/8/38'. The number 8 has been stamped in the upper right hand side of the photograph. On the back have been stamped the words Velox, indicating the type of photographic paper.kiewa, mt. beauty, construction, grazing, secv -
Kiewa Valley Historical Society
Boots Riding Women's, Circa 1950's
... living and operating a cattle station before the SEC Hydro ...This pair of "adjustable" boots came from the 1950's era in which the majority of footwear was either locally manufactured or imported from England or Europe. Quality hard wearing leather was a rural necessity especially for the cattle mustering activity in the Kiewa Valley and the Bogong High Plains region. The late 1900's provided a cheaper made riding boot from Asia, however many rural based riders still prefer an Australian made boot. The better quality (stronger stitching) of Australian boots is the main considerations of "stock horse riders". In 1947 a scientific research project started to provide an impact analysis of any damage to alpine vegetation by cattle grazing in the Alpine regions incorporating the Bogong High Plains area. This monitoring is the longest running ecological study ever undertaken in Australia. From this study, compelling evidence was presented to the Victorian Government to cease cattle grazing in the Alpine regions including the Bogong High Plains. All grazing was banned by the Victorian Government in 2005. Recreational horse riding within the Bogong High Plains is still permitted.These pair of women's riding boots are very significant to the Kiewa Valley as the boots were worn by one of the descendants of a pioneer family living and operating a cattle station before the SEC Hydro Electricity Scheme opened up the semi remote rural location in the 1950's. These boots were worn during the annual six weeks (approx.) mustering of cattle in the Bogong High Plains location (Victorian Alps region). The owner of these boots was Clare Roper, part of the Roper Family who built a "lodging" hut on the "High Plains" for accommodating riders during the periods (up to six weeks) when controlling grazing cattle during the summer muster seasons. It was unusual for women in the early to mid 1900's to go up on the High Plains to join the muster, which Clare Roper often did. These boots have high historical significance and good interpretive capacity.These brown "knee high" lady riding boots, are fastened by long "boot" laces which go from the base of the "fastening" position to a boot height of 22 cm. At the top end of the boot is a leather flap which crosses the front section of the boot and is fastened to the outside leg region by two straps. These provide the wearer with an adjustable tie. The boot has a "tongue" of 22 mm long. The boot has six pairs of metal boot lace "hooks" and eight pairs of boot lace "eyelets".ladies riding boots. cattle mustering footwear. rural footwear. cattlemen. bogong high plains. roper family. horses. -
Kiewa Valley Historical Society
Bottle - Castor Oil, Circa 1920's to 1900's
... in the population growth (SEC Vic Hydro Electricity Scheme) in the Kiewa ...This bottle of castor oil was used during the mid to late 1900's when there was a Hospital in the Kiewa Valley, but regarded as only for serious injuries and near death situation. For this reason many households had a "first aid" box full of items such as this bottle of castor oil. Home based remedies for non life threatening injuries and illnesses were a part of life in a semi remote rural region. True and trusted family "health" remedies were passed from generation to generation.This Castor Oil bottle is very significant to the Kiewa Valley as it demonstrates the self reliance of the early farming and grazing pioneer families. Knowledge of "first aid" was uppermost to the survival of families before the late 1900's. Naturopathic remedies such as connected with the castor oil contained in this bottle, although may not be sanctioned by medical research, does not take into account of the positive "self healing" of the human mind (if you think it is doing you good it creates a positive action). Such preservation techniques were handed down through the generations.Medical Reference material was limited to books available and read and not not from "the internet" in the latter part of the 1900's. The availability of General Practitioners increased because of the boost in the population growth (SEC Vic Hydro Electricity Scheme) in the Kiewa Valley from 1940's onward. This small indigo coloured glass bottle has a narrow neck and a screw on lid.It has an embossed manufacturer's name and contents (Castor Oil) on one side and identification marks embossed on the underside base.medicine bottles, home first aid remedies, indigo glass medicine bottles -
Kiewa Valley Historical Society
Film Strips in Canisters
These films were used c1940s and 1950s to educate students in Bogong and Mt Beauty Primary Schools. The visual experience enabled all students to see the same picture as the teacher read out the caption. Bogong and Mt Beauty Primary Schools are in the Kiewa Valley established as a result of the State Electricity Commission of Victoria's Kiewa Hydro Electric Scheme. As the schools were remote from large towns and cities these films were useful to enhance the students' education using a different media to that of books.450 - 500 Metal canisters with fitted lid and base soldered on. Each lid is marked with a number and / or title / subject of film. Film is rolled up inside canister. It is plastic and is in negative form - black and white. The number of frames and length of film varies. The edges have rectangular holes for threading onto a viewing machine.Varies with each canister - subject / title. Some have a number and some have a number and title / subject. Some are inscribed on and some are on paper attached to lid. photographic equipment, films, film canisters, education, schools, bogong primary school, education department of victoria, photography, mt beauty primary school. -
Kiewa Valley Historical Society
Marking Gauge - Carpenter's Tool, c1925
Used from the mid 1920s to mark timber so that it could be cut with a saw. It was an essential tool for carpenters.Used by Alan Tyers who worked for the State Electricity Commission of Victoria on the Kiewa Hydro Electric Scheme.Carpenter's essential equipment. Used for marking timber so it can be cut with a saw. Wooden screw on the side allows the square wooden block to slide along the length of wood which is almost square at the end but with 2 flat sides and 2 rounded sides. Plated with 2 strips of brass on the square block. Sold for 1/3 in the 1920s. There is a nail through one end. carpenter, cabinet maker, secv, tool, marples, marking gauge -
Kiewa Valley Historical Society
Tin Snips - Tool
Used by builders and plumbers to cut tin.Used by Alan Tyers who worked for the State Electricity Commission of Victoria on the Kiewa Hydro Scheme.Cousin's Regular Pattern. Used by builders and plumbers to cut tin. Regular pattern with straight cutting edge. Best cast steel, black finish, ground blades. 9 inch. When closed blades meet at the point. Handles meet when closed and are curved outwards."J. Cousins & Sons. Sheffield"- Inscribed on handle side of pivot on one side.tinsmith, tin snips, tool, secv, cousin's & sons -
Kiewa Valley Historical Society
Plaque - Eucalypt Chapmanania, 1947
W.D.Chapman had a keen interest in botany and was particularly interested in Eucalyptus species. He was first to discover the tree which now bears his name on his numerous visits to the Kiewa power station which is situated near the Bogong High Plains. He was a Commissioner and later the Chairman of the State Electricity Commission of Victoria, the organisation in charge of building the Kiewa Hydro Scheme. The tree is a cross between two eucalypts. The trees are unique as they cannot procreate. There were two 'Bogong Gum' trees. One at Cranky Charlies and one on the way up to the High Plains passed by the Ryder family on their way up.This plaque was beside the Falls Creek Road and indicated the location of the 'Bogong Gum' tree. The tree was burnt in the 2003 bush fires but survived only to be killed in the 2006 bush fires. There were two 'Bogong Gum' trees. One at Cranky Charlies and one on the way up to the High Plains passed by the Ryder family on their way up. Heavy bronze plaque embossed with inscription. On the back is a large rectangular steel piece bent at the bottom to form a 'U' shape. One end of the 'u' is attached to the plaque and the other end has two holes for bolts enabling the plaque to be attached near the tree. One bolt is in a hole."Type tree from which was first described the species / Bogong Gum / (Eucalyptus Chapmaniana, Cameron) / The species was identified by the / late Brigadier W. D. Chapman M.C.E., / D. Eng., M.I.E. Aust., M.I.C.E. Lond. Commissioner / of the State Electricity Commission / of Victoria from May 1944 to May 1955, / in his honour it was named."plaque; state electricity commission of victoria; w.d.chapman; eucalyptus; bogong gum tree; falls creek road -
Kiewa Valley Historical Society
Bowl Ceramic - SECV
This bowl was used by the SECV in their mess rooms for workers during the construction of the Kiewa Hydro Electric Scheme. The imprint of the year '1921' was to identify the year that the SECV was formed which relieved the private VHEC (Victorian Hydro-Electric Company). As the scheme was of such a huge scope, isolated and time consuming nature, the feeding of its workers was quite demanding of cutlery and crockery. (See more KVHS 0113)This bowl was used by SECV workers working on the Kiewa Hydro Electric Scheme (1938 - 1961) in camps and mess halls and at the Mt Beauty chalet. (See more KVHS 0113)This item is a white ceramic State Electricity Commission of Victoria bowl. It is made in England and is of strong and durable ceramic. The 5 mm thickness of the ceramic suggests this bowl (cereal / soup) belongs to a commercial kitchen environment and not domestic. The indent bottom of the bowl is 5 mm deep with a side curvature ratio of 2:5. The ceramic is glazed to a commercial standard (workers' mess). See also KVHS 0128 (B - D) for other ceramic crockery.The red printed seal of the State Electricity Commission of Victoria is imprinted on the top outside rim within a curved scroll and a raised fist with electrical "Charges" extending out. Snuggled within the borders of the scroll is a banner with the 5 stars of the Southern Cross. On the underside "Vitrified sold by Cafe & Hotel Supplies Pty Ltd Dunn Bennett & Co. Ltd. Burslem. Made in Englandcrockery; state electricity commission of victoria; dunn bennett pty. ltd.; bowl -
Kiewa Valley Historical Society
Photo - Air Observers' Hut SECV during WWII, 24 May 1943
During WW2 there were volunteers all over Australia observing air activity every night. This photo was taken from the S.E.C.V. hut dedicated to this activity and was manned by men and women throughout the war. The State Electricity Commission of Victoria were based at Bogong when constructing the Kiewa Hydro Electric Scheme. The State Electricity Commission of Victoria dedicated a hut at Bogong township during World War 2 for the purpose of volunteers manning the hut to observe air craft. This was during the construction of the Kiewa Hydro Electric Scheme. See also KVHS 0938 (certificate) and KVHS 1259 (Training Manual)Black and white photo of the State Electricity Commission of Victoria's 'Volunteer Air Observer's Hut' at Bogong during World War 2.- 24th May 1943On back of photo: "EW / K1156 / 24 May 1943 / Volunteer Air Observers Hut / During World War 2 / Bogong"secv, bogong, wwii