This bottle has been produced in the Epsom factory of the Bendigo Pottery works and used by Alfred Darby for bottling his ginger beer in the late 1890s. In 1897 Alfred Darby leased the cordial factory in Henna Street,Warrnambool, formerly the McSweeney Cordial Factory (and today the Alderdice Brass Foundry). He used the Maltese Cross as his logo on his bottles. He also had a cordial factory in Rochester, Victoria about the same time. In 1899 Alfred Darby advertised that he had re-located his cordial business to the old ‘Echo’ newspaper building in Koroit Street but it is not known whether the business opened there or if it did, for how long. This ceramic bottle is of interest as one of the late 19th century bottles used by Alfred Darby, a soft drinks manufacturer in Warrnambool. Cordial manufacturing was an important industry in Warrnambool for over 100 years.This is a ceramic brown and buff-coloured ginger beer bottle. It has a black logo in the shape of a Maltese Cross stamped on one side and the maker’s name etched into the clay near the base. It has no stopper and the main body of the bottle is somewhat stained. ‘A. Darby Henna Street Warrnambool’ ‘The Bendigo Pottery Coy. Pty. Ltd. Epsom Bendigo’ cordial manufacturers in warrnambool, history of warrnambool

Document: hard cover journal, brown cover with buff spine, in very poor condition. Journal contains details of leases with number and date of application, name and address of applicant, parish, allotment area, date and issue of lease. Entries mainly for parish of Sandhurst, Bendigo, some for Swan Hill, Kerang, Echuca. On spine ' Bendigo 138 01401 to - then onto cards'Lands Officebendigo, residence and business leases, lands office

This is a waltz piece of music with words and music by Ruby Wharrie. Mrs Wharrie is best known for her doll-making business which she operated in Stawell, Victoria with her husband and son. Mrs Wharrie was the designer of the dolls which were made in the 1940s and 50s. One doll was named ‘Shurl’ to cash in on the popularity of the child actress Shirley Temple and the consequent popularity of the Shirley Temple doll. Stawell is a provincial city situated close to the Grampians mountain range and the title of the music reflects Mrs Wharrie’s interest in the area. ‘My Grampian rose’ is a person and the theme of the music is the fulfilment of love - ‘I am coming back to you, my little Grampian Rose’. This music is of interest as it has been written by a person who lived in western Victoria. It has Ruby Wharrie’s signature inside the front cover, making it more valuable. It is also an example of the sweet and sentimental music produced during the 1940s and 50s as a foil to the sadness and brutality of the world war. This is sheet music of four pages (two pages printed back to back) with the printed music on three pages and the cover having a multi-coloured illustration of the Grampians mountain range in Victoria. It is in good condition and has an old catalogue number ‘94’ on the back page. Front cover: ‘My Grampian Rose, Words and Music by Ruby Wharrie, 2/6’ Inside front cover: ‘Ruby Wharrie’ ruby wharrie, my grampian rose, sheet music

These two ledgers contain details on mortgages in the Warrnambool district but the business person or persons associated with the ledgers is unknown. One ledger dates from 1913 to 1925 and the other from 1910 to 1926. The financial dealings of the mortgagees and mortgage brokers are listed in detail and many of the names in the ledgers are well-known historically and include Crisp, Coulstock, Coleston, Flett and Goldstraw. There are also some unfamiliar names worthy of research. These ledgers are of historical interest and have potential value to researchers of local history.These two ledgers have brown covers made of wood with a cloth covering. The pages are attached to the cover by metal inserts with screws and have alphabetical tabs. The pages have red and blue printed lines and handwritten entries in ink. mortgage ledgers warrnambool early 20th century, warrnambool history

Administrative records of A. A. Briggs, Warrnambool accountant, real estate agent, insurance and commission agent donated to the Warrnambool and District Historical Society, source and date unknown byadministrative records of a Warrnambool businessmanNine ledgers and four folders of documents held in A3 archival boxesHandwritten administrative records and personal papers of nine ledgers and four foldersa.a. briggs warrnambool, victorian alliance, atlas assurance company, warrnambool hospital, warrnambool permanent building societya.a. briggs warrnambool, victorian alliance, atlas assurance company, warrnambool hospital, warrnambool permanent building society

This ledger contains details of debts owed by people in the Warrnambool district. It dates from 1906 to 1916. The compiler of the ledger is unknown. Many of the debtors are Chinese, mostly working as market gardeners in the north Warrnambool area and the debts usually concerned rents and the supply of agricultural items such as chaff. These Chinese, many of whom came from the Victorian goldfields, operated market gardens and businesses in the town of Warrnambool from the 1870s to the 1930s or 40s.This ledger is of interest because of the names of people listed as debtors and in particular the names of Chinese working in the district. The ledger is thus a valuable research tool. This is a ledger with a thick card cover in a mottled pattern in red, black, blue and yellow colours The spine, which has some damage, is covered in a maroon coloured leather. The pages are ruled with red lines and the entries are handwritten in ink. There are some loose pages.Debtor's Ledger C.L.warrnambool chinese market gardeners, warrnambool, chinese

The business connected to this ledger, dated from 1904 to 1907, is unknown. There are some local Warrnambool and district names but most refer to other places in Victoria and interstate. The entries mostly deal with the sale of produce - onions, potatoes, barley, oats etc. and the names of ships are usually appended . One can guess that the ledger comes from a Steamship Company, a produce buyer or a cartage contractor.This ledger is of minor interest and is retained for research purposes.This is a ledger of 755 pages. The cover is charcoal-coloured hard board with brown leather on the spine and the edges of the cover. The spine has a red label with gold-coloured lettering. The pages have ruled red lines and handwriting in black ink. The ledger is much stained and tattered at the edges.Day Bookwestern district produce, warrnambool, onions, potatoes, barley, oats

These three items are prescription books from a local Warrnambool chemist or chemists. The dates are 1895 to 1905, 1915 to 1918 and 1931 to 1935. The ledgers are untitled but at least one may come from the firm of R.F. Kennedy & Co, with this business situated in Timor Street. Richard Frank Kennedy commenced business in Warrnambool in 1880 as a wholesale, retail and manufacturing chemist and built up a large and important business. He died in 1903 but the business continued for many years with various chemists operating the business known as R.F.Kennedy and Co.These prescription books are of considerable interest as they contain many local names and the prescriptions give us an insight into aspects of community health early in the 20th century.1 A ledger of 502 pages with a hardboard cover, remnants of a spine with a red label, ruled pages with handwritten material in ink and an alphabetical index at the front. .2 A ledger of 502 pages with a tattered cover and leather binding and gold lettering on the spine. The pages are ruled with handwritten material in ink and an alphabetical index .3 A ledger of 500 pages with a hardboard cover. The spine is almost completely missing. The pages contain an alphabetical index, ruled red lines and handwritten material in ink.Prescription Bookwarrnambool chemists, warrnambool, r.f. kennedy & co

This ledger contains the business accounts from 1883 to 1885 of an unknown Warrnambool business. There is one page allotted to the accounts of each individual client. This ledger is of some interest because of the many names listed of people of Warrnambool and district in the late 19th century and so it has some value as a research tool.This is a 19th century ledger of 894 pages. It has a beige cover with some evidence of leather edging. The ledger is much stained. The pages contain handwritten material in ink.Ledgerwarrnambool business ledger, warrnambool, business accounts

The person or business that used this ledger in Warrnambool is unknown. It contains accounts for sale of goods (one person per page) from 1878 to 1883.This ledger is of some interest because of the local 19th century Warrnambool names it contains but unfortunately the business name is unknown.This is a 19th century ledger of 888 pages. It has a hardboard cover that is tattered. It once had a red-coloured spine. The pages contain handwritten information in ink. warrnambool business ledger, warrnambool, sale of goods

Today’s Panton Hill Hotel was built around 1920. Published: Nillumbik Now and Then /​ Marguerite Marshall 2008; photographs Alan King with Marguerite Marshall.; p61 Panton Hill was originally known as Kingstown, and consisted of only one hotel when the Orams Reef was discovered in 1859. Kingstown was a quartz mining centre and many old mine shafts remain in the area. Orams Reef was one of the first reefs with a rich find of gold in the area. The Hotel Francais, which had been operating in 1861, was well situated on the way to Queenstown (later St Andrews). So was Herr Hirt’s Hotel and store at Smiths Gully. The Kingstown hotel, known as the Frenchman’s and in 1864 as the Hotel de France, was run by a Monsieur Emile Hude and his wife Jeanne, and known for its good food. They hosted social events, business conventions and debates, attracting patrons from as far as Melbourne. The hotel’s name was changed to Panton Hill Hotel in 1905. In 1883 Charles Caudwell built another hotel nearby, possibly in Long Gully Road,3 which it is thought, was burnt down early last century. Today’s Panton Hill Hotel, built around 1920, is the only one of the cluster of buildings in the main road, not to date from around the turn of last century. It was severely damaged by fire in 2003, then underwent extensive alterations. It is the township’s only hotel and is an example of a modest hotel building exterior, constructed early last century. In its early days the hotel also housed the first post office, newsagency and store. Orams Reef yielded a total of £100,000, and fossikers also found alluvial gold in the creeks and gullies, but there is no record of the total value of their finds. Gold greatly increased the Panton Hill population, which peaked between 1865 and 1885. On holidays large sports meetings were held with wood chopping contests and foot races and the day would end with a ball. Miners came from various countries to seek their fortune, including many from China. The Chinese became unpopular however, and gradually left the district, although some stayed and grew and sold vegetables.5 Panton Hill was named after Joseph Panton, who in 1862 was appointed Police Magistrate for the Woods Point, Heidelberg and Yarra districts. Panton was an outstanding man, who in 1852, was Commissioner of Crown Lands and Assistant Commissioner of Goldfields at Bendigo. In 1874 he was promoted to Chief Magistrate for the Melbourne Police. Panton was also an artist, becoming president of the Victorian Arts Society in 1888, and in 1913, president of the Royal Geographical Society. Despite Panton Hill’s prosperity, it still lacked many services as poor roads made access to Melbourne difficult. A horse-drawn mail coach travelled to Melbourne until 1890, when the railway came to Heidelberg. The nearest doctor was at Yarra Glen or Heidelberg, and the Indian hawker Singh’s annual visit was very welcome. A miner’s shack opposite the school was used as a post office. Today’s general store and post office in the main road dates from early last century, and has changed considerably. While most people searched for gold, the more enterprising ones established farms to feed the diggers. Farmers grew wheat, barley and oats, and sent animal skins to the Eltham tannery, to make furs in Melbourne. As gold became scarce from around 1880, miners took up farming on 19 to 20 acre (8ha) allotments. The first settlers in Cherry Tree Road included Purcell, Smith, Owens, Hughes and Shillinglaw. By 1900 all the land had been taken up around Panton Hill and Hurstbridge. The orchards in Panton Hill and the wider district, particularly of apple and pear, were very successful, and made Panton Hill a cohesive and successful community. About 1914 the Moores built the first cool-store and refrigeration plant at their orchard in Cherry Tree Road. Many settlers planted vineyards and made high quality wine, but in 1922 the blight destroyed them.This collection of almost 130 photos about places and people within the Shire of Nillumbik, an urban and rural municipality in Melbourne's north, contributes to an understanding of the history of the Shire. Published in 2008 immediately prior to the Black Saturday bushfires of February 7, 2009, it documents sites that were impacted, and in some cases destroyed by the fires. It includes photographs taken especially for the publication, creating a unique time capsule representing the Shire in the early 21st century. It remains the most recent comprehenesive publication devoted to the Shire's history connecting local residents to the past. nillumbik now and then (marshall-king) collection, panton hill hotel

Edgar's Newsagency was situated on the corner of Hargreaves Street and Killians Walk. It later became POwney's Newsagency and then The Athletes Foot.Edgars' Newsagency: Billing card, cream with black print. Name: Mrs Thomas, 96 Rae St. From 07/01/50 to 29/06/50. Box 625business, retail, general, edgars' newsagency

The Breville company was established in Sydney in 1932, by Bill O’Brien and Harry Norville, who combined their two surnames to form the company name. The company originally manufactured radios. During World War II, it made mine detectors. By 1953, the radio business had been taken over by A.W. Jackson Industries Pty. Ltd., which manufactured radiograms and, later, television sets under the Breville brand. In the 1960s, Breville turned its attention to manufacturing kitchen appliances and other domestic appliances. With more people owning cars, caravans and becoming more mobile, a range of lighter appliances were also developed. This included the Breville Travel Light Steam Iron. Breville has now become a global brand which delivers kitchen products to more than 70 countries.This item is representative of an Australian company established in 1962 and its innovations in the electrical appliance industry.A small foldable steam iron manufactured by Breville in Honk KongBreville Travel Light Steam Iron Model details on metal platedomestic appliances, breville irons, travel irons

Augustus Bostock was the 9th child of Robert & Rachael Bostock of Vauclause Epping Forest, Van Diemen’s Land. He was only 4 years old when his mother died. He was inspired by his father to seek his fortune in the Western District of Victoria. He arrived around 1850. He married Margaret Aitkin in July 1865. Augustus owned several properties in the district and leased others. He sat on the court of Warrnambool, Mortlake or Hexham as required. He resided at Marramook in Hawkesdale and later moved to Vauclause in Hopetoun Road Warrnambool.where he died in 1920 at the age of 87. He was involved in many aspects of life in the Western District, racing, cricket, and social acitivities to name a few. This ledger shows the expenses and costs associated with the farming business of Augustus Bostock, one of the earliest pioneers of Warrnambool. It lists names of people with whom he did business as well as expenses with shearing and rations. It lists the various categories of sheep, ewes, lambs, wethers, and different breeds of sheep and distinguishing features of cattle. It also contains the names of local shearers and workers.Augustus Bostock was one of the earliest pioneers of Warrnambool and the Western District. This ledger gives an insight into many aspects of this early life. It therefore has social, historical and interpretive significance.Hard cardboard coverer with cream covering. Line border on front cover. Mottled green, blue and pink paper inside front and back covers. Alphabetical index at front. 105 pages.warrnambool, bostock, angus, diary

Order docket books used at Koki Fondue and Carvery Restaurant in Falls Creek during 1975. Shows menu items and price as well as how orders were taken. George Shirling arrived in Falls Creek in 1962. He engaged Phil Nowell to build the original Koki Alpine Lodge which opened in 1965 with 14 beds. George operated the lodge with Michael “Baldy” Blackwell as manager. He also graduated in sport psychology in 1981 and was invited to become team psychologist for the Australian Winter Olympic team which went to Albertville, France, in 1992. He later owned the Red Onion Chalet. George credited the success of Koki to “Baldy” Blackwell. “Baldy” and Phil Nowell started the Trackers Mountain Lodge in partnership during the 1980s. In 1971 George sold Koki Lodge to Sigi Doerr. Sigi was a long time resident of Falls Creek, owning and operating Koki Lodge for many years with his wife, Lee. He was Falls Creek CFA Captain from 1995 until 1998 although he served in the Fire Brigade for much longer. Sigi had many involvements in the community. In 2024 the renamed Koki Alpine resort remains a highly popular destination in Falls Creek.This item is significant because it has clear links to an iconic business established in Falls Creek, VictoriaTwo order docket books for Fondue and Carvery Licensed Restaurant, with paper connected at top edge with glue, each page containing name of restaurant at top of page with list of menu items and price in grid with section for table at left and order number at right. All printed in red. 'Koki / Fondue & Carvery / Licensed Restaurant'dining, 1970s dining, falls creek, koki, george shirling, sigi doerr

John Matchett was born in Corbrackey, Ireland in 1828. His Wholesale and Family Grocers started in 1857. It was on the Corner of Hargreaves and Edward Streets, Bendigo. It was known as the BELFAST STORES, HARGREAVES-STREET WEST SANDHURST. After his death in1887, Robert Matchett carried on the Grocery and Produce Business.Digital Documents, John Matchett & the Belfast Grocery Store, written to CD containing historical information. It includes notes on the Matchett family history.names of bendigo pioneers, john matchett, matchett wholesale and family grocers

Howard Murray (Pat) Lightfoot (1904-1991) served as President for the Association for the Blind in 1952-1954 and 1964-1972 respectively. He joined the Association in 1938 as a sighted member of the General Committee, and was part of the group that dealt with the breakdown of a uneasy financial agreement that existed between the RVIB and AAB, the incorporation of the AAB under the Charities Act and the development of a rehabilitation centre at Kooyong for those who wished to have support without a residential component. After losing his father at an early age, Pat Lightfoot began working as an office boy for Nicholas Pty Ltd, later studying and becoming an accountant - such skills highly needed by the newly incorporated Association. According to 'No Sight, Great Vision', he was a highly skilled communicator, whose friendly and approachable manner won over most of those who opposed his presence on the general committee due to his sight. His support for and recognition of the work done by Mr Paterson led to him standing aside for the position of President and nominating his friend until the Committee overrode him in 1952. His appointment signaled a change in how the organisation was run, and introduced John Wilson as Secretary as well as Stan Horsfall as Treasurer in 1953, which helped move the administration style from social volunteering to business thinking. Health concerns caused him to resign in 1954, however when his health improved he rejoined the Committee in 1958 and again became a key worker in keeping the organisation financially healthy. The "H.M. Lightfoot Centre" - a two storey building attached to Paterson Hall was named after him. This image was provided when J Balmain was approached to paint a portrait of Mr Lightfoot, for the centenary celebrations of the AFB, as per the letter.1 portrait photograph of Howard (Pat) Lightfoot and 1 associated letter regarding usage for a portrait by Balmain.Mr H.M. (Pat) Lightfoot - (Past President) 1" Deep (No. 2) Association for the Blind 7 Mair Street Brighton Beach, 3188 Please return to PR Department (arrow pointing to left) 14 ems (arrow pointing to right) 1.95 .1 100# Ticket No: 5230 Client: Abaris 100# Wanted: Tues 19th AM Mounted: as layout and sticker 43 1/4% Please Quote No: BA 9105 Laurie Richards 4 Tower Ave, Alphington 3078 489-8528 48-5541h.m. lightfoot, association for the advancement of the blind, association for the blind

David Robertson (1855-1953) was a founding member of the Association for the Advancement of the Blind and president 1895-1899 and 1913. For centenary celebrations of the Association, portraits were painted of past presidents and photographs gathered in preparation of this. This image was collected, however the donor is unidentified.1 A4 page cut into two with image and notesDavid Robertson 1st President at AAB & Co-founder with Miss T Aston Held Presidency 5 times until Health gave way he carried out his Carried on his own Business until 59 yrs of age died at 96 yrs His sister Janet inaugurated the Visiting of the Blind & was treasurer for 8 yrs D.R. was responsible for getting the free pass & gave the AAB its name They both lost their sight in Gov homes as orphans Their Brother (William of New Zealand was champion Sculler of New Zealand for 20 yrs) (Hearn) called after step father Kindly acknowledge Warwick Studio, Albert Parkdavid robertson, association for the advancement of the blind

Howard Murray (Pat) Lightfoot (1904-1991) served as President for the Association for the Blind in 1952-1954 and 1964-1972 respectively. He joined the Association in 1938 as a sighted member of the General Committee, and was part of the group that dealt with the breakdown of a uneasy financial agreement that existed between the RVIB and AAB, the incorporation of the AAB under the Charities Act and the development of a rehabilitation centre at Kooyong for those who wished to have support without a residential component. After losing his father at an early age, Pat Lightfoot began working as an office boy for Nicholas Pty Ltd, later studying and becoming an accountant - such skills highly needed by the newly incorporated Association. According to 'No Sight, Great Vision', he was a highly skilled communicator, whose friendly and approachable manner won over most of those who opposed his presence on the general committee due to his sight. His support for and recognition of the work done by Mr Paterson led to him standing aside for the position of President and nominating his friend until the Committee overrode him in 1952. His appointment signaled a change in how the organisation was run, and introduced John Wilson as Secretary as well as Stan Horsfall as Treasurer in 1953, which helped move the administration style from social volunteering to business thinking. Health concerns caused him to resign in 1954, however when his health improved he rejoined the Committee in 1958 and again became a key worker in keeping the organisation financially healthy. The "H.M. Lightfoot Centre" - a two storey building attached to Paterson Hall was named after him. In these three photographs Pat and his wife Beth look or stand next to the portrait painted of Pat Lightfoot, for the centenary celebrations.3 coloured photographs of Pat and Beth Lightfooth.m. lightfoot, association for the blind

non-fictionAn example of a cover created by using a diecast stamp in its printing and gilding and by a colonial die cast stamp pioneer in booming Melbourne.binding, engraving, lithography, printing, publishing, george robertson, roeszler, stamps, melbourne

The purchases and services recorded indicate that the user was an ironmonger. Origin of ledger unknown. Early business in Sandhurst in 1860s.An account ledger used to record the purchases and services made for a business. Records date from 1860. The ledger is covered with brown leather with decorative edges. There are alphabetical tabs at the front of the book with lists of names. Individual customers are allocated a double page entry. Pages are ruled and numbered. The book is in very poor condition having obvious signs of water and insect damage. The writing in the first quarter of the book is barely legible, remaining pages can be read. Some names - Durant, Watson, Mollison, Harris, Neale, Cahley, Bannerman, Larritt, Cranshaw, Gripe, McLachlan, Burrell, O'Loughlin, Cameron Rogers, McLevey, Nicholas Eliad?, Crago, Hopsell, Grant, Bird, Cahill, Harker, Parker S McKinlay, Fletcher, Birch, Cruikshank, Municipal Council, Heffernan and Crawley, Buckley Bros, John Harney, Bywater and Brother, Goulding, Casey, Reynolds, English, McKenzie, Knight, David Mackay."LEDGER" on the spine. Label inside "Sands and Kenny. Account Book Manufacturers. Stationers and Printers Melbourne"bendigo businesses, ironmonger

The company developed from the merchant activities of John Ford Strachan who commenced business in the Port Phillip settlement during 1836. A series of amalgamations from 1876 to 1896 extended the interests of the firm which registered on 23 Dec 1897 as Strachan, Murray & Shannon Pty Ltd. The company floated as a public company on 12 Sep 1919 and changed its name to Strachan & Co Ltd on 1 Jul 1931. The business was taken over by Dennys Lascelles Ltd and deregistered on 2 Aug 1978. The Stachan Woolstore complex on the corner of Moorabool Street and Brougham Street, Geelong was first built in 1840 and has been systematically redesigned over the years. Currently only the facade remains.Brown leather satchel bag with a handle and straps which fasten with metal belt clips. Gold printed lettering is featured on the front. Front [printed]: S. M. & S. LTD. / GEELONG / H. H. H.bag, working life, geelong, leather satchel

Ada of California was a Melbourne swimwear company founded in the early 1950s by Brighton locals Ada and Toni Murkies. Born in Poland in 1922, Ada was 17 when the Second World War reached her doorstep. She and her family were torn from their home by Soviet soldiers and sent to a brutal labour camp in Siberia as part of a series of mass deportations. In order to escape the horrific conditions of the camp, Ada and her sister Barbara joined the Soviet-backed Polish Army. During her time in the military she became close with a handsome young Jewish officer, Lieutenant Antoni Murkies, who later became her husband. After the war Toni was awarded 15 medals including the highest Polish military honour, the Virtuti Militari. Ada was awarded 10 medals, including the Order of the Cross of Grunwald. Emigrating to Australia as postwar refugees in 1948, Ada and Toni arrived in Melbourne with little to their name. Working initially in garment factories and building their connections, by the mid-1950s the couple were able to start a company of their own, with Ada designing the garments and Toni managing the business. Within ten years, Ada of California swimwear was being sold in department stores throughout Australia, and the Murkies family were able to build a permanent home of their own in Brighton. By the early 1980s they had acquired several other major labels, including Watersun. This swimsuit is believed to be one of a large quantity of samples, seconds and unsold Ada Productions stock donated to Brighton Historical Society in late 1990 by Brian Samuel, who worked at the company between 1979 and 1990.Black one-piece swimsuit with deep v-neck and low-cut back and high-cut legs. Halter neck. Ruched sides. Label in side: "ada / 16"swimwear, ada of california, ada productions, melbourne designers, ada murkies, toni murkies

Ada of California was a Melbourne swimwear company founded in the early 1950s by Brighton locals Ada and Toni Murkies. Born in Poland in 1922, Ada was 17 when the Second World War reached her doorstep. She and her family were torn from their home by Soviet soldiers and sent to a brutal labour camp in Siberia as part of a series of mass deportations. In order to escape the horrific conditions of the camp, Ada and her sister Barbara joined the Soviet-backed Polish Army. During her time in the military she became close with a handsome young Jewish officer, Lieutenant Antoni Murkies, who later became her husband. After the war Toni was awarded 15 medals including the highest Polish military honour, the Virtuti Militari. Ada was awarded 10 medals, including the Order of the Cross of Grunwald. Emigrating to Australia as postwar refugees in 1948, Ada and Toni arrived in Melbourne with little to their name. Working initially in garment factories and building their connections, by the mid-1950s the couple were able to start a company of their own, with Ada designing the garments and Toni managing the business. Within ten years, Ada of California swimwear was being sold in department stores throughout Australia, and the Murkies family were able to build a permanent home of their own in Brighton. By the early 1980s they had acquired several other major labels, including Watersun. This swimsuit is believed to be one of a large quantity of samples, seconds and unsold Ada Productions stock donated to Brighton Historical Society in late 1990 by Brian Samuel, who worked at the company between 1979 and 1990.Blue backless one-piece swimsuit with ruching up sides and front. Halter neck. Straps loop down over hooks at the back.Label in side: "ada / 12"swimwear, ada of california, ada productions, melbourne designers, ada murkies, toni murkies

This swimsuit belonged to Audrey May Ferguson (nee Fulton), a longtime Brighton resident. Ada of California was a Melbourne swimwear company founded in the early 1950s by Brighton locals Ada and Toni Murkies. Born in Poland in 1922, Ada was 17 when the Second World War reached her doorstep. She and her family were torn from their home by Soviet soldiers and sent to a brutal labour camp in Siberia as part of a series of mass deportations. In order to escape the horrific conditions of the camp, Ada and her sister Barbara joined the Soviet-backed Polish Army. During her time in the military she became close with a handsome young Jewish officer, Lieutenant Antoni Murkies, who later became her husband. After the war Toni was awarded 15 medals including the highest Polish military honour, the Virtuti Militari. Ada was awarded 10 medals, including the Order of the Cross of Grunwald. Emigrating to Australia as postwar refugees in 1948, Ada and Toni arrived in Melbourne with little to their name. Working initially in garment factories and building their connections, by the mid-1950s the couple were able to start a company of their own, with Ada designing the garments and Toni managing the business. Within ten years, Ada of California swimwear was being sold in department stores throughout Australia, and the Murkies family were able to build a permanent home of their own in Brighton. By the early 1980s they had acquired several other major labels, including Watersun.Black one-piece rayon and cotton swimsuit. Straps button at back. Asymmetrical zig-zag front with double-line of white stitching, embellished by a large cream button.Label, white with green palm tree logo and red text: "Ada / OF CALIFORNIA" Label, white with red text: "61% RAYON, 10% RUBBER, 29% COTTON 36"swimwear, audrey may ferguson, audrey may fulton, melbourne designers, ada of california, ada murkies, toni murkies, 1950s, 1960s

Polish-born designer David Waters first began producing swimwear in 1952. His mother Halina had recently opened a stall at Melbourne Queen Victoria Markets and was looking for swimsuits to sell; unable to find any she liked, she asked David to design something. He began making swimming costumes using his mother's sewing machine, in between his shifts working at a knitting factory. He had soon set up a small business in his parents' home, cutting patterns in one room while a machinist sewed them together in the next. His company, which he named Watersun, would become an iconic Australian swimwear label. During the early 1960s, Watersun developed its "Unquestionable Bra", an inbuilt moulded bra which was marketed as giving wearers a more natural bustline than other labels. The company was also known for its matching swimwear and beachwear, producing dresses, kaftans, tops and skirts in identical colours and prints to those used for many of its swimsuits. By 1967, the company was reportedly one of Australia's two biggest swimwear manufacturers, with over one hundred employees. Watersun was sold to Ada Productions in 1984 and was later acquired by Trackerjack Australasia. This piece is believed to be one of a large quantity of samples, seconds and unsold Ada Productions stock donated to Brighton Historical Society in late 1990 by Brian Samuel, who worked at the company between 1979 and 1990.Ensemble consisting of sleeveless crop top (.1) and full length pants (.2). Bold floral print features blue and white flowers on a navy blue background. Top has a white Peter Pan collar. Swing tag attached.Swing tag: "SIZE 34 / STYLE 186/11 / PRICE $13.00".swimwear, watersun, david waters, ada productions, melbourne designers

Polish-born designer David Waters first began producing swimwear in 1952. His mother Halina had recently opened a stall at Melbourne Queen Victoria Markets and was looking for swimsuits to sell; unable to find any she liked, she asked David to design something. He began making swimming costumes using his mother's sewing machine, in between his shifts working at a knitting factory. He had soon set up a small business in his parents' home, cutting patterns in one room while a machinist sewed them together in the next. His company, which he named Watersun, would become an iconic Australian swimwear label. During the early 1960s, Watersun developed its "Unquestionable Bra", an inbuilt moulded bra which was marketed as giving wearers a more natural bustline than other labels. The company was also known for its matching swimwear and beachwear, producing dresses, kaftans, tops and skirts in identical colours and prints to those used for many of its swimsuits. By 1967, the company was reportedly one of Australia's two biggest swimwear manufacturers, with over one hundred employees. Watersun was sold to Ada Productions in 1984 and was later acquired by Trackerjack Australasia. This swimsuit is believed to be one of a large quantity of samples, seconds and unsold Ada Productions stock donated to Brighton Historical Society in late 1990 by Brian Samuel, who worked at the company between 1979 and 1990.Backless lamé one-piece swimsuit (.1) with pattern of silver, blue and bronze circles in various sizes. Waist ties knotted at front for cinched-in waist. Built-in underwire bra. Sleeveless A-line jacket (.2) in same fabric, falling past hips. Front zip and close-fitting hood.Label in bra, blue with yellow sunburst logo containing the word “Watersun” in red, above the text: “32 / Unquestionable Bra”.swimwear, watersun, david waters, ada productions, melbourne designers

Polish-born designer David Waters first began producing swimwear in 1952. His mother Halina had recently opened a stall at Melbourne Queen Victoria Markets and was looking for swimsuits to sell; unable to find any she liked, she asked David to design something. He began making swimming costumes using his mother's sewing machine, in between his shifts working at a knitting factory. He had soon set up a small business in his parents' home, cutting patterns in one room while a machinist sewed them together in the next. His company, which he named Watersun, would become an iconic Australian swimwear label. During the early 1960s, Watersun developed its "Unquestionable Bra", an inbuilt moulded bra which was marketed as giving wearers a more natural bustline than other labels. The company was also known for its matching swimwear and beachwear, producing dresses, kaftans, tops and skirts in identical colours and prints to those used for many of its swimsuits. By 1967, the company was reportedly one of Australia's two biggest swimwear manufacturers, with over one hundred employees. Watersun was sold to Ada Productions in 1984 and was later acquired by Trackerjack Australasia. This swimsuit is believed to be one of a large quantity of samples, seconds and unsold Ada Productions stock donated to Brighton Historical Society in late 1990 by Brian Samuel, who worked at the company between 1979 and 1990.Blue and white gingham one-piece swimsuit. Short overskirt. Two rows of white cutwork lace form a frill along neckline and down either side of back straps, which fasten with buttons. Inbuilt bra with label: "Miss Watersun", size T14.Label in bra, blue with yellow sunburst logo containing the words “Miss Watersun” in red, above the text: “T14”swimwear, watersun, david waters, ada productions, miss watersun, melbourne designers

Polish-born designer David Waters first began producing swimwear in 1952. His mother Halina had recently opened a stall at Melbourne Queen Victoria Markets and was looking for swimsuits to sell; unable to find any she liked, she asked David to design something. He began making swimming costumes using his mother's sewing machine, in between his shifts working at a knitting factory. He had soon set up a small business in his parents' home, cutting patterns in one room while a machinist sewed them together in the next. His company, which he named Watersun, would become an iconic Australian swimwear label. During the early 1960s, Watersun developed its "Unquestionable Bra", an inbuilt moulded bra which was marketed as giving wearers a more natural bustline than other labels. The company was also known for its matching swimwear and beachwear, producing dresses, kaftans, tops and skirts in identical colours and prints to those used for many of its swimsuits. By 1967, the company was reportedly one of Australia's two biggest swimwear manufacturers, with over one hundred employees. Watersun was sold to Ada Productions in 1984 and was later acquired by Trackerjack Australasia. This swimsuit is believed to be one of a large quantity of samples, seconds and unsold Ada Productions stock donated to Brighton Historical Society in late 1990 by Brian Samuel, who worked at the company between 1979 and 1990.Two-piece swimsuit with navy blue and white horizontal stripes. Cropped top (.1) has inbuilt underwire bra and metal fastening at back. Shorts (.2) are high-waisted with longer legs. Matching top (.3) has diagonal navy and white stripes and an asymmetrical hem. Sleeveless with round neck. Velcro fastening on shoulder and side seam of shorter side. No label.swimwear, watersun, david waters, ada productions, melbourne designers

This striking pool party ensemble from Australian swimwear company Watersun was designed by Carmela DiBernado, nee Savino, for the opening of the Sydney Opera House in 1973. Polish-born designer David Waters first began producing swimwear in 1952. His mother Halina had recently opened a stall at Melbourne Queen Victoria Markets and was looking for swimsuits to sell; unable to find any she liked, she asked David to design something. He began making swimming costumes using his mother's sewing machine, in between his shifts working at a knitting factory. He had soon set up a small business in his parents' home, cutting patterns in one room while a machinist sewed them together in the next. His company, which he named Watersun, would become an iconic Australian swimwear label. During the early 1960s, Watersun developed its "Unquestionable Bra", an inbuilt moulded bra which was marketed as giving wearers a more natural bustline than other labels. The company was also known for its matching swimwear and beachwear, producing dresses, kaftans, tops and skirts in identical colours and prints to those used for many of its swimsuits. By 1967, the company was reportedly one of Australia's two biggest swimwear manufacturers, with over one hundred employees. Watersun was sold to Ada Productions in 1984 and was later acquired by Trackerjack Australasia. This swimsuit is believed to be one of a large quantity of samples, seconds and unsold Ada Productions stock donated to Brighton Historical Society in late 1990 by Brian Samuel, who worked at the company between 1979 and 1990.Pool party ensemble consisting of a swimsuit (.1) and robe dress (.2), both black with silver trim. Dress has a crossover front, fastening at side waist, with v-neck at front and plunging back. Swimsuit has a v-neck, with silver trim extending forming an X-shape across the body.Label (identical in both items), blue text on white: “Watersun / SIZE 10 / BUST 32 / Made in Australia”swimwear, watersun, david waters, ada productions, melbourne designers, 1970s, carmela savino, carmela dibernardo, sydney opera house