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Phillip Island and District Historical Society Inc.
Document, Grant to W.J.McHaffie for lease of Crown land
J D McHaffie, Phillip Island's first leaseholder, relate how McHaffie set up his headquarters (and later built his house) alongside what is now known as McHaffies lagoon. The McHaffie brothers – John David and William – occupied Phillip Island under a license from the Admiralty in 1842 and farmed it as a sheep run.Historical3 A4 photocopies showing application for lease in 1850, size and description of the land and instructions for the application.w.j.mchaffie, land grant, farming, saltwater creek, crown land -
Orbost & District Historical Society
black and white photograph, early 20th century
Mr John Watt set up farming in 1879. He was a native of Port Fairy. He was educated in Scotland and came back to Victoria and selected 320 acres on the Snowy River.The property extended from Majors Creek Road to around about Gilbert's Gulch.The Watt family settled in Orbost as farmers being one of the first farming families in the district.A black / white photograph showing wooden farm sheds and wagons. a small wooden house is on the right hand side and there are tall trees in the fioreground.on back - Mrs Watts farmwatt- farm agriculture-buildings -
Orbost & District Historical Society
black and white photograph, early 20th century
This photograph shows Pike's buggy with Joe Pike, Mrs George Pike, Annie Bruton and Maggie Middleditch on the verandah. Annie Bruton was the wife of Jack Bruton who came to Orbost about 1891. When land was made available for selection at Murrungowar. they took up a selection and embarked in dairying, sheep-farming and pig-raising. They transformed a veritable wilderness into a productive farm by sheer hard work and liberal expenditure. By 1892 he had secured a licence for an hotel and accommodation house, store and the first post office at Murrungowar. For a time she was licensee of the Murrungowar Hotel. In December 1897 he was living at Murrungowar when he made application for a Roadside Victualler’s License for a house situated at Boulder Creek, East Gippsland, containing four rooms in course of erection, exclusive of those required for family. He was a butcher at Orbost in 1902-03 and also had a farm on the Bendoc Road. He was a member of the first Golf committee. After leasing the hotel to Jonson's he moved to Orbost and started brick-making near the Orbost water service basin on the Bendoc Road. He had the order for the bricks required for the Masonic Hall. Mr and Mrs Bruton resided at Murrungowar for 29 years. They let their property to Messrs McDONALD and sons and retired to Orbost in December 1920. Mr Bruton had not been in very good health for the last 4 or 5 years of his life, and about a fortnight prior to his death he got wet at his brick kiln, and contracted pneumonia which led to hiThis is a pictorial record of the the Murrungowar Township which was once a thriving settlement with a hotel, store, post office and school. In the 1890s pioneers were attracted to the area with the promise of a railway from Orbost. However, when the promised railway did not eventuate most of the farms were abandoned. Much of the previously cleared areas have reverted to Forest. Most of the remaining farms are now privately owned eucalypt plantations.A large black / white photograph of five people standing outside a one - storey wooden building. There is an empty buggy behind them with a horse behind it. The building has a sign above the verandah - "MURRUNGOWAR HOTEL ANNIE BRUTON".on front - "Pikes Buggy - Mrs Bruton, Mrs Geo & Mr Joe Pike" ; Herbert Sherwood photographer murrungowar-hotel bruton-annie pike-joe -
Warrnambool and District Historical Society Inc.
Document - David Williams Probate 1889, 1889
Tait collection: item 36 of 62 This document contains the details of the Will and Probate of David Williams of ‘Morgrugyn’ farm near Woodford. He was born in 1804 and died in 1889. He was a pioneer settler in the Woodford area, arriving, according to the Pioneer Honour Board, in 1842. His son, Ivor, was Secretary of the Grasmere Cheese and Butter Factory for some time and Secretary of the Warrnambool Cheese and Butter Factory in 1888. David Williams left real estate to the value of £1540 and personal estate to the value of £1075. The chief beneficiary was his eldest son, David but other sons and grandsons also benefited. His wife, Mary, was left £300, a house to live in rent free during her lifetime, two cows and the right to graze them on the farm, six silver spoons, her bed and bedding, washstand and ware, a dressing table, a table in the dairy and ‘all the crockery and cooking utensils she may require’. The lawyer drawing up this document was James Fletcher who had an office in Port Fairy in the 1870s and an office in Koroit Street, Warrnambool, in the 1880s. In the 1890s and early 1900s he was in partnership with George Mackay. This document was in the possession of the lawyer Ernest Chambers who had drawn up the Williams will. It was then passed down to successive lawyers occupying legal premises in Kepler Street until it was located in 2014 in the Kepler Street building last used as legal premises by the firm of Mackay Taylor. This document is of considerable interest as it contains the will and probate details of a prominent 19th century farmer in the Woodford district. It will be useful for researchers.This is a white piece of parchment paper folded in two with typed material on two pages and handwritten material on one page. The pages are ruled with red ink. The pages include the Will and Probate details of David Williams of ‘Morgrugyn’ farm near Woodford. He died in 1889.In the Supreme Court in the Colony of Victoria in the Probate Jurisdiction In the Will of David Williams Morgrugyn farm near Woodford in the Colony of Victoria Farmer deceasedjames fletcher, david williams, ernest chambers, warrnambool, woodford, morgrugyn farm -
Warrnambool and District Historical Society Inc.
Book, Dougaln Index Register to NOK, Early 20th century
This book belonged to James and Catherine McGinness (both names are in the book). James McGinness (1842-1905) came to the Framlingham area in the 1870s and married Catherine Taafe in 1880. Members of the McGinness families had been involved in hotelkeeping in the Purnim district. James and Catherine McGinness had a farm at Framlingham (including the breeding of horses) with the property known as Riverview. The farm and derelict remnants of the house still exist today. The youngest son of James and Catherine was Paul McGinness, a hero of two World Wars and the founder of the airline Qantas. The original spelling of the surname was ‘McGuinness’ but James altered the spelling to avoid confusion over names with his brother John. This book is of interest because it belonged to the McGinness family of Riverview, Framlingham. Several of the names in the book are marked, especially those of ‘McGuinness’ showing that perhaps the McGinness family of Framlingham had expectations of claiming some of the money listed as unclaimed. This is a hard cover book of 472 pages. At the back of the book are several pages giving addresses of lawyers and opinions of the Press. The cover is red with an embedded pattern on the front cover and gold lettering on the front cover and the spine. The inscriptions are handwritten in blue and black ink. The book contains names of those deceased persons and/or their heirs who have appeared in advertisements regarding unclaimed money. There are several coloured insert sheets in the book with copies of letters of thanks sent by grateful readers. The cover is very stained and torn at the edges. ‘C. McGinness Framlingham’ ‘James McGinness Framlingham’ james and catherine mcginness, paul mcginness, history of framlingham, history of warrnambool -
Kiewa Valley Historical Society
Photo - Paddy Fisher's Cream Truck 1969, December 13, 1969
The Hallford truck was made by J & E Hall, of Dartford, England, whose business commenced in 1785. In 1926 the Fisher family of Mongan's Bridge took delivery of the 1923 Hallford truck which was used on the farm to transport cream to the Kiewa Butter Factory in Tangambalanga. In 1967, the truck was sold to Mr Greg Bedstead and other members of the Kiewa Valley Historical Society for the KVHS who reimbursed them at a later date. The truck was housed at the Butter Factory for many years and was paraded on special occasions. The truck was purchased for $380. It's chassis no. 2439 and the price included a spare chain. (Ref. E. Fisher on 18th Dec. 1969) The KVHS group who paid $50 each towards the Hallford truck were: T Pyle; James Grave; P & E. Barton; K Shoebridge; K Plenderleith and SK Pearce.refunded in 1971 Hallford truck. Fisher family. Kiewa butter factory. J & E Hall Company of England. E FisherBlack and white photograph of Paddy Fisher's cream truck loaded onto a tray truck at the Tawonga Caravan Park. Seven unidentified people on the tray truckSmall typed note attached to back of photo 'Paddy Fisher's cream truck at Tawonga caravan park. 13th December, 1969hallford truck, cream truck, fisher family, kiewa valley farmers, mongan's bridge -
Kiewa Valley Historical Society
Photo - Mountain Creek Logging Camp, 1955
Hume and Hovell discovered the area in 1824 and by the end of the 19th century the valley was transformed by logging, dairy and beef cattle properties and tobacco farms. The logs could have been milled for timber at the State Electricity Commission's mill at Howman's Gap which provided a much needed source of timber for construction of McKay Creek Power Station which began construction in 1951 and also the camps and houses for the workers and their families. There was a need for housing and infrastructure for an increasing population of workers for the hydro-electric scheme as there was a general shortage of this commodity. A timber mill was started in Tawonga by Mates, of Albury, in 1945, and electricity became available in 1946 the S.E.C. bought the mill, and enlarged it. In 1960 it was purchase by a local family, they also started a timber mill in Mt Beauty worked both until 1980 when they closed it. The Tawonga mill and enlarged the mill called Mt. Beauty Timbers Pty Ltd employed approximately 50 people. An historical pictorial record of the general working conditions, type of machinery and vehicles in use in the 1950’s. Note the lack of protective clothing!Black and white photograph of the logging camp at Mountain Creek. November 1955Handwritten on the back of photograph - MOUNTAIN CREEK LOGGING CAMP NOV 55mountain creek logging camp, timber industry, tawonga -
Kiewa Valley Historical Society
Photo - Logging. Mountain Creek, November 1955, November 1955
Hume and Hovell discovered the area in 1824 and by the end of the 19th century the valley was transformed by logging, dairy and beef cattle properties and tobacco farms. The logs could have been milled for timber at the State Electricity Commission's mill at Howman's Gap which provided a much needed source of timber for construction of McKay Creek Power Station which began construction in 1951 and also the camps and houses for the workers and their families. There was a need for housing and infrastructure for an increasing population of workers for the hydro-electric scheme as there was a general shortage of this commodity. A timber mill was started in Tawonga by Mates, of Albury, in 1945, and electricity became available in 1946 the S.E.C. bought the mill, and enlarged it. In 1960 it was purchase by a local family, they also started a timber mill in Mt Beauty worked both until 1980 when they closed it. The Tawonga mill and enlarged the mill called Mt. Beauty Timbers Pty Ltd employed approximately 50 people An historical pictorial record of the general working conditions, type of machinery and vehicles in use in the 1950’s. Black and white photograph of logging at Mountain Creek November 1955Small typed note attached to the back of photo - Logging Mountain Creek November 1955mountain creek logging camp, tawonga, timber industry -
Kiewa Valley Historical Society
Photograph - Mt Beauty timber Industries, 1960's (estimate only)
Hume and Hovell discovered the area in 1824 and by the end of the 19th century the valley was transformed by logging, dairy and beef cattle properties and tobacco farms. Timber was required for construction of McKay Creek Power Station which began construction in 1951 and also the camps and houses for the workers and their families. There was a need for housing and infrastructure for an increasing population of workers for the hydro-electric scheme as there was a general shortage of this commodity. A timber mill was started in Tawonga by Mates, of Albury, in 1945, and electricity became available in 1946 the S.E.C. bought the mill, and enlarged it. In 1960 it was purchase by a local family. They also started a timber mill in Mt Beauty and worked both until 1980 when they closed the Tawonga mill and enlarged the mill called Mt. Beauty Timbers Pty Ltd which employed approximately 50 people. A pictorial record of the development of the Mt Beauty community and the local timber industry.Colour photograph of aerial view of Mt Beauty Timber Mills and surrounding area including pondage and part of airfield. Photo taken in 1960’s (estimate only)Handwritten in ink on back of photograph in very faint writing – Recent photo of Mt Beauty Timber Industries Mt Beauty Operationsmt beauty timber industry, timber industry, timber mill, secv -
Kiewa Valley Historical Society
Photograph - Mount Beauty Timber Industries, 1960's (estimate only)
Hume and Hovell discovered the area in 1824 and by the end of the 19th century the valley was transformed by logging, dairy and beef cattle properties and tobacco farms. Timber was required for construction of McKay Creek Power Station which began construction in 1951 and also the camps and houses for the workers and their families. There was a need for housing and infrastructure for an increasing population of workers for the hydro-electric scheme as there was a general shortage of this commodity. A timber mill was started in Tawonga by Mates, of Albury, in 1945, and electricity became available in 1946 the S.E.C. bought the mill, and enlarged it. In 1960 it was purchase by a local family. They also started a timber mill in Mt Beauty and worked both until 1980 when they closed the Tawonga mill and enlarged the mill called Mt. Beauty Timbers Pty Ltd which employed approximately 50 people. A pictorial record of the development of the local timber industry in the Kiewa Valley showing equipment used in timber milling.Colour photograph of Mt Beauty Timber Industries Mill. Photo taken inside the workshop showing saw blades and equipmentmt beauty, mt beauty timber industry, timber mill -
Kiewa Valley Historical Society
Photographs x 2- Halford truck, 1. 11/7/1972 2. Unknown
The Hallford truck was made by J & E Hall, of Dartford, England, whose business commenced in 1785. In 1926 the Fisher family of Mongan's Bridge took delivery of the 1923 Hallford truck which was used on the farm to transport cream to the Kiewa Butter Factory in Tangambalanga. In 1967, the truck was sold to Mr Greg Bedstead and other members of the Kiewa Valley Historical Society for the KVHS who reimbursed them at a later date. The truck was housed at the Butter Factory for many years and was paraded on special occasions.This truck was used to transport cream to the Kiewa Butter Factory from the Fisher family's dairy farm at Mongan's Bridge. At other times a tyre was removed and a belt attached to run a chaff cutter. This truck has historical significance as it is presentative of vehicles which were used by farmers to transport cream to the butter factories by a local family. Furthermore, it has social significance as KVHS members combined their finances to purchase this truck so it would be part of our collection. It is well provenanced and has an excellent interpretive capacity.2 black and white photographs mounted on buff card 1. Photograph of Halford truck with man on white horse riding alongside. Presumably in a parade. Dated 11th July, 1972 when truck was no longer in service. 2. Photograph of Halford truck followed by a horse and buggy. Date unknown1. Handwritten in black ink above photo 'Halford truck N.E. Dairy Co. Kiewa. 11 July, 1972' 2. No markingshallford truck, fisher family, kiewa valley farmers, dairy truck -
Kiewa Valley Historical Society
Photograph- Paddy Fisher's truck at Tawonga, 13th Dec. 1969
The Hallford truck was made by J & E Hall, of Dartford, England, whose business commenced in 1785. In 1926 the Fisher family of Mongan's Bridge took delivery of the 1923 Hallford truck which was used on the farm to transport cream to the Kiewa Butter Factory in Tangambalanga. In 1967, the truck was sold to Mr Greg Bedstead and other members of the Kiewa Valley Historical Society for the KVHS who reimbursed them at a later date. The truck was housed at the Butter Factory for many years and was paraded on special occasions. Photograph shows truck parked outside the original Kiewa Valley Historical Museum which was located at Tawonga Caravan Park and was later relocated to its current location at the Mt Beauty Information Centre. This truck was used to transport cream to the Kiewa Butter Factory from the Fisher family's dairy farm at Mongan's Bridge. At other times a tyre was removed and a belt attached to run a chaff cutter. This truck has historical significance as it is presentative of vehicles which were used by farmers to transport cream to the butter factories by a local family. Furthermore, it has social significance as KVHS members combined their finances to purchase this truck so it would be part of our collection. It is well provenanced and has an excellent interpretive capacity.Black and white photograph of Paddy Fisher's truck on a flat bed truck, outside the original Kiewa Valley Historical MuseumSmall typed tag on back of photo 'Paddy fisher's truck taken at Tawonga Caravan Park 13th December, 1969'hallford truck, fisher family, kiewa valley farmers, mongan's bridge, cream truck -
Kiewa Valley Historical Society
Photographs - 2 Colour photographs of logs being harvested and milled for timber in the Kiewa Valley
: Hume and Hovell discovered the area in 1824 and by the end of the 19th century the Kiewa Valley was transformed by logging, dairy and beef cattle properties and tobacco farms. The logs could have been milled for timber at the State Electricity Commission's mill at Howman's Gap which provided a much needed source of timber for construction of McKay Creek Power Station which began construction in 1951 and also the camps and houses for the workers and their families There was a need for housing and infrastructure for an increasing population of workers for the hydro-electric scheme as there was a general shortage of this commodity. A timber mill was started in Tawonga by Mates, of Albury, in 1945, and electricity became available in 1946 the S.E.C. bought the mill, and enlarged it. In 1960 it was purchase by a local family, they also started a timber mill in Mt Beauty worked both until 1980 when they closed the Tawonga mill and enlarged the mill called Mt. Beauty Timbers Pty Ltd which employed approximately 50 people. An historical pictorial record of the type of machinery and vehicles in use in the 1950’s to harvest and mill the logs from surrounding forested areas.1. Colour photograph of large logs being milled for timber at a timber mill 2. Colour photograph of heavy machinery being used to harvest large logs for milling timber; timber mill; kiewa valley; forests; logging -
Kiewa Valley Historical Society
Tobacco Tying Twine
Tobacco farming began circa 1960 in the Kiewa Valley and consequently became one of its major industries. Many of the Italian families were involved in tobacco farming.Historical: This equipment was used on one of the first tobacco farms in the Kiewa Valley at Mongans Bridge. Provenance: This tobacco farmer came from Italy and was sponsored to visit a tobacco farmer in Myrtleford to learn how to grow tobacco so that he could transfer those skills to his own farm in the Kiewa Valley.The twine was used to tie green leaf in bunches onto the sticks. There were 26 bunches per stick and 500 sticks per kiln. Spool of tying cotton used on electric sewing machine. With the bailing, the sewing needles were housed on a hook on the top edge (of the tying horse) with the correct length of string at hand - time was of the essence. A large ball of orange, scratchy, twine kept together by a piece of twine wrapped around it.tobacco. mongans bridge. kiewa valley. twine. tying horse. -
Kiewa Valley Historical Society
Cream Separator
Dairy farms used cream separators to separate the milk and the cream before using it themselves or selling it to the dairy companies, shops or directly to the public.This cream separator was used by P & R Creamer on their dairy farm in the Kiewa Valley.3 parts - top brass lid with hollow cylinder enclosed across its top and extending beyond its circumference. 2. Stainless Steel hollow cylinders that fit the base and the lid but has 2 long curved spouts extending out - one for the milk and one for the cream to come out 3. Black cast iron stand that houses the gear mechanisms that drive the separator cones. The gear speed reduction wheel is on one side. "Alfa-Laval MOB / 80 Gall Capacity per hr / 48 Rev of Crank per Minute / Alfa-Laval Separator / Co. Ltd / 299 Sussex St. / Sydney" - on bottom side of the machinedairy; cream separator; kiewa valley; creamer family -
Christ Church Anglican Parish of Warrnambool
Plate, Untitled, Brass Alms dish, C.1902
Brass Collection Plate presented to St Paul's Anglican Church, Allansford, by the mother of Joseph & Frank Dallimore as a Memorial to the two brothers who drowned at Ryan's Den (near Cape Otway) on Jan 1st 1903. Major Joseph Dallimore (aged 32) was on leave from Sth Africa during the war and he, his wife (Beatrice Wiggs) and baby, his brother Frank Rupert Dallimore (aged 22), a farm hand Arthur Geach (aged 19) and a house maid servant, were picnicing at Ryan's Den (near Cape Otway) when the three men went walking, but never returned, all assumed drowned. One theary has it - Mrs M.E. Dallimore was picnicing at Lake Gillear beach when an enormous wave swept over the shore - (much larger than any other during that day) and rolled in all along the beach. This wave may have also reached the area where the three men were walking on the rocks and swept them into the ocean. Only one body was recovered - some 4 weeks later - that of Frank Rupert Dallimore and washed into Brown's Creek, 1 mile from the Johanna River and ten miles east of Ryans Den.It is a memorial plate and records the family's attachment and importance to the Church.Brass engraved and embossed Memorial Collection PlateEmbossed wording around edge of plate in Old English font reads - "All things come of Thee and of Thine own have we given Thee". The inscription on the tondo of the plate reads - "TO THE GLORY OF GOD / AND IN MEMORY OF / JOSEPH & FRANK RUPERT DALLIMORE, / WHO WERE DROWNED AT RYAN'S DEN, / JAN 1ST 1903. / PRESENTED BY THEIR LOVING MOTHER, / M.E.DALLIMORE."brass st pauls anglican church allansford warrnambool church of england christ church parish of warrnambool collection plate memorial plate dallimore drowning ryan s den alms dish -
Warrnambool and District Historical Society Inc.
Container - Metal Tin for holding documents, late 19th century
This tin or trunk came from the old Kepler Street, Warrnambol Tait legal offices. The tin originally held legal documents connected to John Hyland (1830-1908). Irish-born John Hyland came to the Warrnambool district in 1850 working as a mounted trooper and a rate collector. He then farmed in the Mortlake district for some years before returning to Warrnambool and setting up as an auctioneer and stock and station agent. He was a Warrnambool Councillor (1880s and 90s) and Mayor (1891-2). His trunk of legal documents was first held by the lawyer, Henry Parrington, operating in Warrnambool from 1888 to 1917 (1888-1900 Higgins and Parrington, 1900 Parrington and Tait, 1901-1917 Parrington). Following Hyland's death in 1908 Henry Parrington has used the tin to house his probate documents and when John Sym Tait purchased the Parrington practice in 1917 he has obviously taken over the Hyland trunk. This tin is of some considerable interest as a memento of past Warrnambool identities - John Hyland and Henry ParringtonThis is a metal tin, rectangular in shape. It has a ridged top, two metal handles and a key mechanism.John Hyland Esq. Parrington Probates & Deeds (keep)henry parrington warrnambool lawyer, john hyland warrnambool, john sym tait warrnambool lawyer -
Warrnambool and District Historical Society Inc.
Clothes brush & holder, Mid 20th century
The brush in this case could have been used as a hair brush or a clothes brush. It is enclosed in a leather case and was probably an item made for travellers. The brush and case belonged to George Tomlinson of Ballangeich. Ballangeich is a small settlement on the Hopkins Highway about 27 kilometres from Warrambool. George Tomlinson’s grandfather, William Tomlinson , established a farming property at Ballangeich in 1865 and opened a hotel, ‘Half Way House’ on part of the land. George Tomlinson’s father, also William, continued to farm in the area and was known as a fine judge of cattle and sheep. This case and brush are of interest as an example of the brushes men used in the mid 20th century. The items are also of interest as they belonged to a member of a well-known Ballangeich family (Tomlinsons).1 This is a piece of brown leather rolled over and stitched with yellow thread to form a container or case. The case has a closing mechanism – a leather strap and metal buckle. .2 Inside the leather case is a brush with a brown Bakelite back with horsehair inserted. ‘G.E. Tomlinson Ballangeich Victoria’men’s toiletries, ballangeich, history of warrnambool -
Eltham District Historical Society Inc
Photograph (Item) - Print, Karen Hynes, The House With Half A Red Roof, 1988
... Series 35 Scan - 35mm negative Fabbro's farm Karen Hynes West ...Original West family home, Fabbro's farm, Bell Street, Eltham Karen Hynes 1988 Entrant No. 10 No negative SHIRE OF ELTHAM COMMUNITY PHOTOGRAPHIC SURVEY Photography is an artform which many of us practice, sometimes purely for artistic pursuit, sometimes to record the people and events in our lives. In 1988, as part of a local Bicentennial project, the Shire of Eltham conducted the Eltham Community Photographic Survey. Up to 100 entries were to be selected by a panel of photographers for entry into the Eltham Photographic Survey Exhibition. Entries had to be submitted by May 13, 1988. Entrants whose images were selected for the exhibition were contacted and requested to further submit an entry form providing entrant’s name, area of residence, age, and proposed captions. These details were then used to produce labels for the exhibition mounts. Where negatives had not been supplied, these were requested to support the display of printed enlargements mounted on 10” x 8” cardboard. The mounted prints were made available post exhibition for sale at $8.50 each for colour prints and $7.00 for B&W prints. Residents in the Shire were invited to collect a free roll of film and take a photograph of what they either liked or did not like about the area. A total of 160 entrants submitted multiple entries for the exhibition. Of those selected for exhibition, entrants ranged in age from 9 to 70 years. All custom colour and black and white printing for the exhibition was completed by Wattle Studios of Eltham. The Eltham Photographic Survey was jointly auspiced by the Shire of Eltham and Wattle Studios, of 953 Main Road, Eltham. The project was greatly assisted by: • David McRitchie, Media Studies Lecturer Victoria College, Rusden Campus. • Ian and Annette Toohill of Wattle Studios • Tracy Naughton, Eltham Community Arts Officer • Neville Emerson Pty. Ltd. • Superior Press, Eltham • Kodak Australasia Pty. Ltd. • Agfa Gevaert Ltd. • Townsend Colourtech Pty. Ltd. • The Australian Bicentennial Authority • Eleanor Bowers, Secretary, Eltham Arts Council The exhibition was placed on display in the Woolworths Arcade, Eltham between Monday June 6th and Saturday June 11, 1988. It was also intended to hold the exhibition at a venue in the Shire’s North Riding from Monday, June 20 to Friday June 24. It was then displayed at the Were Street Theatre, Montmorency from Friday, June 24 to Thursday, July 7. Series 34: Eltham Community Photographic Survey 1988 - Prints & Documentation Series consists of 117 photographs of Shire scenes taken by members of the community. Items I - 41 are larger photographs mounted on card, which were exhibited. Items 42 - 117 are unmounted copies, alternative takes and other entries. Corresponding negatives contained in Series 35: Eltham Community Photographic Survey 1988 – Negatives which consists of 267 colour and B&W negatives and one colour slide of Shire scenes taken by members of the community. The negatives are arranged by the entrant number of the photographer. The Eltham Community Photographic Survey collection is significant to the local community as it was curated by the local community - ordinary people of all ages - representing what they liked and did not like in the area where they lived. It represents an unfiltered representation of the Shire of Eltham as it was in 1988. It also represents one of many projects as part of the national programme of events and celebrations to commemorate the bicentenary. It is a time capsule of life in the 1980s of this urban and rural municipality in Melbourne's north. Front: Entrant No. and name on printed label Rear: Entrant No., name and address on printed label; also 'Series 34' and the 'Item No.' in pencilshire of eltham archives, bicentennial project, eltham, eltham community photographic survey, eltham photographic survey exhibition, series 34, series 35, scan - 35mm negative, fabbro's farm, karen hynes, west house -
Eltham District Historical Society Inc
Film - Video (DVD), Nillumbik Shire Council, Edendale Farm Community Environment Centre: History, c.2009
EDENDALE FARM Edendale Farm is Nillumbik Shire Council's environment centre situated in Gastons Road, Eltham between the railway and the Diamond Creek. The homestead on the property was built in 1896 and is of historical significance, being the subject of a Heritage Overlay under the Nillumbik Planning Scheme. The Edendale property was originally part of an extensive land purchase in 1852 from the Crown by pioneer Eltham farmer Henry Stooke. He initially purchased 51 acres and later expanded his holdings by purchasing another three adjacent Crown allotments extending northerly from Josiah Holloway's Little Eltham subdivision. Despite clearing the land, Stooke did not build on this property, choosing to live on his property "Rosehill" at Lower Plenty. In 1896 Thomas Cool, Club Manager of the Victoria Coffee Palace in Melbourne purchased 7 acres of the original Stooke land and built the house now known as Edendale. Cool did not farm the land, instead using it as a gentleman’s residence, retiring to Eltham at weekends. In 1918 he purchased an additional 7 acres but in 1919 he sold the property. Later owners included J.W. Cox, the Gaston family and D. Mummery. In the 1980s the Eltham Shire Council purchased the site for use as a Council depot, but this use did not proceed. Subsequently, it was used as the Council pound. The Edendale Farm Pet Education and Retention Centre was established in the summer of 1988/1989 and was set up to replace the existing dog kennels with a high standard pet retention centre. The design style of the building was established to compliment the features of the existing house. It was equipped with 10 retention pens, a veterinary room and a pet education area where school children and other interested parties learnt about pet care procedures. It was later developed into a community farm and was run by an advisory committee and in 2000 it became an Environment Centre. In early 2006 an advisory committee was established for the development of a master plan for future development at Edendale Farm. The committee included Russell Yeoman, a former long-time shire planner and founding member of the Eltham District Historical Society. At the time of filming the Master Plan and future for Edendale was about continuing to develop Edendale as a centre of environment learning and looking at expanding displays and school program, running a lot more of life-long learning and workshops around sustainable living.edendale community farm, eltham, gastons homestead, gastons road, shire of nillumbik, video recording -
Eltham District Historical Society Inc
Document - Folder, Mann, John and Violet and family
John Mann arrived from Forfar, Scotland, on the clipper packet "Ellen Stuart" in 1857 and rented a farm "Overton" at Janefield. Soon after he met Melbourne-born Violet McKimmie, whose parents had a property near Darebin Creek. They married on 25 September 1862, John 26 and Violet 19. In 1874 John selected a block on Arthurs Creek and built a slab and bark hut (still standing in 1984) and called their farm "Carseburn" after John's parish in Scotland. They had seven children: John, Jane, Christine, David, Walter, James and Violet. John was drowned in the Yarra in May 1875 and Violet struggled to meet the lease commitment. She wrote to her brother-in-law David Mann in New Zealand who came to her aid, and on 10 September 1876, they married at the Victorian Free church, Smith Street, Collingwood. They improved the farm and built a three-room house. in July 1883 they bought neighbouring land from Ann Welsh. With David, Violet had four more children: Robert, William and twins Thomas and Henry. In 1883, David died and was buried in the same grave as his brother in Preston Cemetery. The twins also died, Thomas just before and Henry just after their father. the children assisted with the farm and orchard, the business including crops, a dairy herd, Carseburne sheep, and breeding horses. Violet died at Yan Yean in 1925, aged 83. A grandson of John Mann, James Mann, lived in Henry Street, Greensborough and had given a talk at the Whittlesea Historical Society in 1983 on his family. Descendant Lindsay Mann was part of a creative writing group that published a book including a short story "The Mountain Tramway" is loosely based on his childhood and stories he was told then but was planning to write his family story. Contents Newspaper article: "Tragedy couldn't stop this pioneer", Diamond Valley News, 31 January 1984, story of Mann family. Newspaper article: "Tracing the history of ordinary. people," Diamond Valley News, 29 July 1986, story of Mann family, researched by descendant Lindsay Mann who grew up at the Mann property She-Oak at Yan Yean and has numerous family records. Newspaper article: "A realist who captures light," Diamond Valley News, 29 July 1986, David Moore, a realist painter had been working from a studio at Montsalvat and his exhibition of work from that period was to open 1 August 1986 at the Victorian Artists Society Galleries.Newspaper clippings, A4 photocopies, etcjohn manan, violet mann nee mckimmie, clipper packet "ellen stuart", forfar scotland, darebin creek victoria, arthurs creek victoria, "overton" at janefield, "carseburn" at arthurs creek, jane mann, christine mann, david mann, walter mann, james mann, violet mann, victorian free church smith street collingwood, ann welsh, robert mann, william mann, thomas mann, henry mann, preston cemetery, carseburne sheep, yan yean cemetery, lindsay mann, david moore, montsalvat -
Eltham District Historical Society Inc
Photograph, Classic Photos, Form 3A, Eltham High School, 1960
Dr Gary Presland advised the following in October 2020: "In 1959 my parents bought a house in Church Street, Panton Hill. For about three and a half years previously, they had farmed a property 15 km south of Echuca, before moving, briefly to Melbourne. After moving to Panton Hill, I was enrolled at Eltham HS, in Form 2 (Year 8). I completed that year, and in 1960 was in Form 3A (at which time the photograph was taken). To reach the school, I caught a bus each day, from Panton Hill. Early in 1960, my parents decided to separate. My mother left with the youngest two of my three siblings, leaving me and a younger brother with our father in Panton Hill. My brother was in Year 7 at the High School. After a few months, my father and I had a falling out and my brother and I left home to join our mother in South Melbourne. For the remainder of the 1960 school year we travelled each day by train from Melbourne to Eltham. In 1961 I was enrolled at Melbourne Boys High School, which was the nearest secondary school to where I was then living."Written in pencil on back: "Gary Presland - 4th from left, back row Eltham HS, 1960" Also stamped in purple ink on back "Classic Photos"1960, class photo, eltham high school, gary presland -
Eltham District Historical Society Inc
Photograph, Peter Pidgeon, Grave of John and Mary Murray, Eltham Cemetery, Victoria, 5 April 2021
Irish-born John Murray and his wife Mary (daughter of Thomas Sweeney) married in 1849 and settled in Eltham North. John and Mary were amongst the earliest inhabitants of Eltham. John was a farmer and their block of about 80 acres, called ‘Laurel Hill’, was on the eastern side of the Diamond Creek, extending east to beyond Zig Zag Road. It was later extended southward by the purchase of a further 60 acres. He is recorded as a supporter on the petition for a school in Eltham and he served on the National School Board of the Eltham school. John died in 1867 and is buried in Eltham Cemetery with Mary and with two of their grandchildren. Their eldest son Johnnie inherited the property. Then in about 1902 his younger brother James purchased about 50 acres on the western side of the Diamond Creek immediately opposite Laurel Hill, extending west to slightly past Wattletree Road. Eltham North Reserve now lies just beyond the southern boundary. James built a family home on top of the hill on the northern boundary, together with a dairy and milking shed and a food cellar. It is thought that the barn with stables was already there. When Johnnie died in 1912, the two properties (though severed by both the creek and the railway line) effectively merged. The land was worked as an orchard with apples, pears, quinces, and possibly apricots and peaches. Later it became a dairy farm. By 1986, almost all the land had been sold off for residential subdivision and the house had been condemned as unfit for habitation. John's grandson Jim retained a small portion of the land and built a new house. He kept the old one as a storage shed, but it was demolished after he died in 1993. The very old barn is still standing. Located in the Roman Catholic section In Memory of John Murray Who died Dec. 1867 aged 50 years Also his wife Mary Murray Who died 7th Sep. 1909 aged 76 years And of their grandchildren Thomas and Mary Ellen DrainBorn Digitaleltham cemetery, gravestones, john murray, mary ellen drain, mary murray, thomas drain -
Eltham District Historical Society Inc
Photograph, Peter Pidgeon, Graves of Thomas Sweeney and family, Eltham Cemetery, Victoria, 5 April 2021
Irish-born Thomas Sweeney is regarded as the first settler in Eltham. He was transported to Sydney in 1823 after being convicted of arson. He was granted his freedom in 1838 and married Margaret Meehan in the same year. They moved to Melbourne and in 1842 Thomas purchased 110 acres beside the Yarra River in the vicinity of present-day Sweeneys Lane. He called the property ‘Culla Hill’ and built a small slab hut (reputedly with Wurundjeri help; Margaret is said to have run an informal hospital for them in return). This was followed in 1846 by more substantial buildings consisting of a three-roomed Irish-style ‘longhouse’ and a barn made of stone and handmade bricks, with doors large enough to accommodate a fully loaded wagon. When the gold rush came, Thomas prospered by selling meat and potatoes to the prospectors, enabling him to purchase a further 308 acres in 1856. He promoted the construction of a bridge over the Plenty River and the establishment of a school at Eltham. Roman Catholic Church services were held at Culla Hill in the early years. When he died in 1867, he was regarded as a respected member of the community. Thomas and Margaret are buried in Eltham Cemetery with many of their descendants. Their first son John continued to farm Culla Hill until his death in 1909. Culla Hill passed out of the Sweeneys' possession in 1939. The house and barn remain today, though lesser outbuildings have gone. The facade of the house is much the same as it was in the 1840s. Sacred To the memory of Thomas Sweeney Who died Sep 6th 1867 Aged 65 years May his soul res in peace Also his wife Margaret Died Oct 3rd 1884 aged 73 years And their daughters Annie Died Aug 22nd 1860 aged 21 years Johanna Died Aug 19th 1872 aged 22 years Margaret Died 7th Sep 1913 aged 72 years R.I.P. Also In Memory Of John Sweeney Died 24th May 1909 Aged 65 years Also of his wife Ellen Died 8th March 1910 Aged 64 years R.I.P Also In Memory Of Caroline Infant daughter of John & Ellen SweeneyBorn Digitalannie sweeney, eltham cemetery, gravestones, johanna sweeney, john murray, margaret sweeney, mary ellen drain, mary murray, thomas drain, thomas sweeney -
Eltham District Historical Society Inc
Photograph, Peter Pidgeon, Grave of Patrick Carrucan, Eltham Cemetery, Victoria, 5 April 2021
Whilst the three original Carrucan pioneers and their spouses are all buried at Eltham, only one gravestone (that of Patrick Carrucan) exists. Like many of the poor farmers of these early times, their graves were not marked with any permanent stone monuments and have deteriorated to become unmarked graves over the years. Patrick Carrucan, born in 1831 in Ireland, was the second oldest son of Patrick and Bridget Carrucan. He married Mary O'Brien in Ireland in 1856 before migrating to Australia, accompanied by Mary’s father, to join his sister Bridget Coleman in Eltham who had migrated in 1853. Patrick and Mary purchased a farm at the corner of Dalton and Bible Streets, initially living in a hut. After a few years, a more substantial house was built with assistance from Mary's father, who then returned to Ireland. The farm gradually prospered, with cattle, poultry and an orchard. Patrick and Mary had ten children (Bridget, Michael, Susan, Patrick, Thomas, Mary Anne, Catherine, Margaret, Frances and Annie) and lived in Eltham for the rest of their lives. In later years, the Sweeney and the Carrucan families intermarried, as did most of the old Catholic farming families of the Eltham District. Patrick died 6 October 1894 aged 63, reputedly from a broken back after being run over by his own bullock cart. Mary died in 2 Nov 1927 aged 90. They, together with other family members, are buried in a family plot in Eltham Cemetery, though only Patrick is recorded on the gravestone. Patrick's gravestone was in such disrepair that Betty Erickson (nee Carrucan) paid to have a new one erected in the late 1970s. Unfortunately, this gravestone, like the original, only honours Patrick Carrucan and does not record the other family members buried in this family plot. Betty wrote in 1989 "our people were farmers; the Sweeneys well-educated and prosperous, the Carrucans on a somewhat less favoured scale, but solid workers and providers." Patrick Carrucan Who departed this life 6 Oct. 1894 Aged 63 yearsBorn Digitaleltham cemetery, gravestones, patrick carrucan -
Eltham District Historical Society Inc
Photograph, Peter Pidgeon, Brinkkotter family graves, Eltham Cemetery, Victoria, 5 April 2021
German-born Anton Brinkkotter, a skilled metal-worker by trade, migrated to Australia in 1880. His initial job was to supervise the installation of ornamental ceilings in the Melbourne Exhibition Building. He moved to Research in about 1900, working first as a plumber and tank-maker. But he is best known for having established a poultry farm (on Main Road between Research Primary School and the Maroondah Aqueduct) in 1906, which steadily grew to become one of the largest in Victoria, supplying customers all over Australia. By 1935 it was a thriving business, with buildings housing 6,000 birds and incubators capable of hatching 8,000 eggs. He died suddenly from a heart attack in 1938 and is buried with his wife Anna in Eltham Cemetery. The business was carried on by his son Anton William Brinkkotter. When electricity came to Research in 1940, the Brinkkotter Poultry Farm was the very first customer, enabling further expansion and modernisation. Two electric incubators were installed with a capacity of 10,000 eggs each. Anton William Brinkkotter became active in public affairs, a trustee of the Eltham Public Hall in Henry Street and was an Eltham Shire Councillor between 1941 and 1961 serving three years as Shire President. The Brinkkotter house in Dudley Street was used to house the Eltham Library prior to a dedicated Library being completed with the southern wing of the Shire offices in 1971. He died in 1970 and is buried with his wife Bridgene in Eltham Cemetery, alongside his parents. In Loving Memory Of Anton William Brinkkotter Passed away 29th Sept. 1970 Aged 72 years Bridgene Josephine Brinkkotter Passed away 5th Feb. 1995 Aged 90 years R.I.P. and In Loving memory Of Anton Brinkkotter Loved husband of Anna & loving father of Anton Died 7th June 1938 aged 71 yrs. Also the above Anna Died 12th Jan. 1954 aged 80 yrs. R.I.P.Born Digitaleltham cemetery, gravestones, anna brinkkotter, anton brinkkotter, anton william brinkkotter, bridgene josephine brinkkotter -
Eltham District Historical Society Inc
Photograph, Peter Pidgeon, Grave of Guido Quarto Fabbro, Eltham Cemetery, Victoria, 5 April 2021
Guido Quarto Fabbro was born 21 August 1891 at Treppo Grande in the far northeast of Italy, the son of Giacomo Fabbro and Anna Geruzzi. Regina Moretti was born 6 March 1893 at Treppo Grande, Italy, the daughter of Giovanni Battista Moretti and Maria Teresa Coletti. Guido and Regina married about 1917 and they had two sons, Giacomo (John c.1918) and Maurie (c.1920). In 1925 Guido Fabbro departed his homeland from Genoa, arriving in Fremantle, Western Australia in June, travelling 3rd class aboard the ship, Caprera. Regina and their two boys followed a year later along with other family members arriving in Fremantle from Genoa 4 July 1926 aboard the Moncalieri. The Fabbro arrived in Eltham in 1933 and purchased a block of land from William West on the western side of Falkiner Street, extending to Ely and Porter Streets which had formerly been part of the West family orchard and dairy farm. As there was no fencing dividing the two properties, West served notice on Guido in December 1934 to bear half of the cost of £6. When payment was not forthcoming, West sued Guido in the Eltham Court in January 1935. Guido failed to appear and was not represented, and costs were ordered in West’s favour. Guido and Regina built a large Italianesque house on their property. The original 1860s cottage was relocated to the back of the block and was rented out (once to Alistair and Margot Knox). Guido also purchased land extending to the Diamond Creek on the eastern side of Falkiner Street and on the eastern side of Bell Street (opposite Eltham High School). The riparian soil was suitable for market gardening: Guido grew mainly tomatoes, but also pumpkins, cauliflowers, cabbages, peas, beans, lettuce, beetroot and zucchinis. Even the land surrounding the house was used. The produce was carted to Melbourne overnight for sale at the market. Guido died in 1970 and is buried in Eltham cemetery. Regina died 1986. She and their son John Patrick (Giacomo) Fabbro who died in 1984 are also buried at Eltham Cemetery. Guido’s son Maurie continued in his father’s footsteps until 2007, principally growing artichokes in later years. He died in 2009. The land on the eastern side of Falkiner Street now forms part of a Council reserve called “Barak Bushland”, the land on the western side having been sold off for residential subdivision. The Bell Street land is now public open space managed by Nillumbik Shire Council and called “Fabbro Fields”. There have been recent proposals to develop the site for sporting purposes or as a dog park or community garden. In Memory of Guido Quarto Fabbro Beloved husband of Regina Died 15-3-1970 aged 79 R.I.PBorn Digitaleltham cemetery, gravestones, guido quarto fabbro, regina fabbro -
Eltham District Historical Society Inc
Photograph - Colour Print, Nathan Islip, Eltham Library under construction, c.1993
Photo taken by Nathan Islip who at the time was studying Architecture at the University of Melbourne. During his experience year he worked as a builder's labourer on the new Eltham Library construction project. Eltham Library Service 1930s - 1994 Originally collated by Harry Gilham, President, Eltham District Historical Society Inc (1993-2009) (edited 2022) In the Eltham township area, in the early 1930s, library books for adults were available from E J Andrew's newsagency in Main Road. In the newsagency cum haberdashery, some shelves were set aside for a lending library of adults' books. In 1935, Mr & Mrs JC Rains purchased the newsagency and continued the lending service until the late 1940s. At this time the business was extended from haberdashery to sell ladies' and men's clothing. The library section was discontinued. In the 1930s a mobile book library was also run by a Mr Foster of Bible Street, Eltham. In the 1950s adult books were available from racks in the foyer of the Eltham Shire Offices which was then located beside the Eltham Hall on the comer of Arthur Street and Main Road. In the early 1950s a referendum of ratepayers was called to seek public opinion on the issue of raising money for a public library for which the rates would have to be increased - the motion was defeated. On 11 November 1965 Eltham Shire Council, in conjunction with the City of Heidelberg and the Shire of Diamond Valley, met to form the Heidelberg Regional Library Service. Eltham was represented by Councillors Charis Pelling and John Lewis. The first library service for the Shire of Eltham from this group came in the shape of a bookmobile van which had, amongst others, a central stopover near the Shillinglaw trees outside the newly opened Shire offices at 895 Main Road, the original site of Shillinglaw Cottage and the former Shillinglaw farm. Present-day Wingrove Park was another stopover and the many recorded requests for this service can be read as denoting the areas of population or gathering points at that period throughout the Shire. 1968 saw the Shire convert the ‘Brinkkotter’ house in Dudley Street to house both adult and children's books. This library was originally staffed from the City of Heidelberg Library and records of committee meetings range from borrowing Heidelberg's old library shelving to trying to increase the Government's subsidy to a dollar for dollar basis. Book loans in the period 1966-67 totalled 30,400 and the following year ran to 52,113. With 2 books plus 1 paperback the limit per person, it was overcrowded and unable to house the range of other services which had become common library stock. Planning to extend the Shire Offices by the addition of the south wing was an opportunity to re-house the Shire's Library. The opening of the library in the extension was carried out on 17th August 1971 by the Hon R J Hamer ED, MP, Chief Secretary of Victoria. Cr Geoffrey Dreverman officiated as the Shire President. The Heidelberg Regional Library Service continued until September 1985 when it disbanded. On 21 November 1985 the Yarra Plenty Regional Library Service was established. At that time Eltham was represented by Councillors Mary Grant and Robert Manuell. By 1987, over-crowding of the Eltham Library and an inability to house the range of other services yet again rose to prominence. At a Council meeting held on 1 June 1987, the Councillors supported a resolution which threatened to close the library on 30 September 1987. Council's frustration arose from yet another re-run of the annual State Government versus Council Library funding and records show first arose in Eltham Council in 1967 with the Government of 1he day. After prolonged public anger and petitions the motion to close the library was rescinded in August 1987. Council, considering the community's concern, set up a ‘Library Review Working Party’ which a year later became the Library Occasional Committee with direct access to Council. This Committee investigated the workings of the 386 square metre library and found inadequate space for storage and display, lack of equipment, out-of-date furniture together with an increasing patronage which resulted in queues of borrowers becoming longer no matter when the library was open. Community consultation took the form of 1,000 questionnaires sent to users and non-users along with noticeboard reminders of what was planned. Council developed a strategy to set aside capital funds from 1988 on an annual basis so that preliminary planning and consultative expenses could be met, and construction could be completed early 1997. The Committee visited metropolitan libraries which were catering for a similar population as was projected for Eltham. Australia-wide Federal Government funding grants under the Local Capital Works Program became available from October 1992 for community projects endorsed by local Councils. The Eltham Council submitted a proposal, based on library findings and requirements accumulated by the Library Occasional Committee, to the Federal Grants Committee to build a new Eltham Library. The Federal Grants Committee supported the funding request allowing commencement of the library project three years earlier than planned. With finance finalised, the Council set up its Eltham Library Re-development Special Committee which was given the task of overseeing what could be the last major expansion of the Shire's Library Service as Eltham's population nears its projected maximum. The new library was designed by Gregory Burgess and Peter Ryan of Gregory Burgess Pty Ltd. Construction of the library commenced in 1993 and was officially opened May 22nd, 1994. The library building was designed to reflect its parkland setting. External features include: the roof which includes interesting aspects when viewed from Main Road; verandahs which provide ramp access and give a sheltered entrance to the building; walls which feature locally made mudbricks, conventional bricks and copper panels; and space for an outdoor courtyard/reading area which will be developed later. Internally there are several features. The building includes a foyer with a fireplace suitable for displays including artwork, a community multi-purpose room suitable for meetings or functions and an outdoor cafeteria. The ceilings are lined with Victorian Ash. The shapes for the ceiling give a free-flowing form to the building. Brush Box has been used for the circulation and information desks. The tree trunk columns are Grey lronbark from New South Wales. Arches and various-shaped windows add interest to the internal structure. The carpet design reflects the Eltham environment and compliments the natural colours and timbers used in the building. Tiles by artist Felix Bosari feature in the building and additional art by local artists added externally and internally to the building. Since 1994 the library has undergone a major extension to cater for children’s services and others. See also EDHS_02111 construction, eltham library -
Eltham District Historical Society Inc
Photograph - Colour Print, Nathan Islip, Eltham Library under construction, c.1994
Photo taken by Nathan Islip who at the time was studying Architecture at the University of Melbourne. During his experience year he worked as a builder's labourer on the new Eltham Library construction project. Eltham Library Service 1930s - 1994 Originally collated by Harry Gilham, President, Eltham District Historical Society Inc (1993-2009) (edited 2022) In the Eltham township area, in the early 1930s, library books for adults were available from E J Andrew's newsagency in Main Road. In the newsagency cum haberdashery, some shelves were set aside for a lending library of adults' books. In 1935, Mr & Mrs JC Rains purchased the newsagency and continued the lending service until the late 1940s. At this time the business was extended from haberdashery to sell ladies' and men's clothing. The library section was discontinued. In the 1930s a mobile book library was also run by a Mr Foster of Bible Street, Eltham. In the 1950s adult books were available from racks in the foyer of the Eltham Shire Offices which was then located beside the Eltham Hall on the comer of Arthur Street and Main Road. In the early 1950s a referendum of ratepayers was called to seek public opinion on the issue of raising money for a public library for which the rates would have to be increased - the motion was defeated. On 11 November 1965 Eltham Shire Council, in conjunction with the City of Heidelberg and the Shire of Diamond Valley, met to form the Heidelberg Regional Library Service. Eltham was represented by Councillors Charis Pelling and John Lewis. The first library service for the Shire of Eltham from this group came in the shape of a bookmobile van which had, amongst others, a central stopover near the Shillinglaw trees outside the newly opened Shire offices at 895 Main Road, the original site of Shillinglaw Cottage and the former Shillinglaw farm. Present-day Wingrove Park was another stopover and the many recorded requests for this service can be read as denoting the areas of population or gathering points at that period throughout the Shire. 1968 saw the Shire convert the ‘Brinkkotter’ house in Dudley Street to house both adult and children's books. This library was originally staffed from the City of Heidelberg Library and records of committee meetings range from borrowing Heidelberg's old library shelving to trying to increase the Government's subsidy to a dollar for dollar basis. Book loans in the period 1966-67 totalled 30,400 and the following year ran to 52,113. With 2 books plus 1 paperback the limit per person, it was overcrowded and unable to house the range of other services which had become common library stock. Planning to extend the Shire Offices by the addition of the south wing was an opportunity to re-house the Shire's Library. The opening of the library in the extension was carried out on 17th August 1971 by the Hon R J Hamer ED, MP, Chief Secretary of Victoria. Cr Geoffrey Dreverman officiated as the Shire President. The Heidelberg Regional Library Service continued until September 1985 when it disbanded. On 21 November 1985 the Yarra Plenty Regional Library Service was established. At that time Eltham was represented by Councillors Mary Grant and Robert Manuell. By 1987, over-crowding of the Eltham Library and an inability to house the range of other services yet again rose to prominence. At a Council meeting held on 1 June 1987, the Councillors supported a resolution which threatened to close the library on 30 September 1987. Council's frustration arose from yet another re-run of the annual State Government versus Council Library funding and records show first arose in Eltham Council in 1967 with the Government of 1he day. After prolonged public anger and petitions the motion to close the library was rescinded in August 1987. Council, considering the community's concern, set up a ‘Library Review Working Party’ which a year later became the Library Occasional Committee with direct access to Council. This Committee investigated the workings of the 386 square metre library and found inadequate space for storage and display, lack of equipment, out-of-date furniture together with an increasing patronage which resulted in queues of borrowers becoming longer no matter when the library was open. Community consultation took the form of 1,000 questionnaires sent to users and non-users along with noticeboard reminders of what was planned. Council developed a strategy to set aside capital funds from 1988 on an annual basis so that preliminary planning and consultative expenses could be met, and construction could be completed early 1997. The Committee visited metropolitan libraries which were catering for a similar population as was projected for Eltham. Australia-wide Federal Government funding grants under the Local Capital Works Program became available from October 1992 for community projects endorsed by local Councils. The Eltham Council submitted a proposal, based on library findings and requirements accumulated by the Library Occasional Committee, to the Federal Grants Committee to build a new Eltham Library. The Federal Grants Committee supported the funding request allowing commencement of the library project three years earlier than planned. With finance finalised, the Council set up its Eltham Library Re-development Special Committee which was given the task of overseeing what could be the last major expansion of the Shire's Library Service as Eltham's population nears its projected maximum. The new library was designed by Gregory Burgess and Peter Ryan of Gregory Burgess Pty Ltd. Construction of the library commenced in 1993 and was officially opened May 22nd, 1994. The library building was designed to reflect its parkland setting. External features include: the roof which includes interesting aspects when viewed from Main Road; verandahs which provide ramp access and give a sheltered entrance to the building; walls which feature locally made mudbricks, conventional bricks and copper panels; and space for an outdoor courtyard/reading area which will be developed later. Internally there are several features. The building includes a foyer with a fireplace suitable for displays including artwork, a community multi-purpose room suitable for meetings or functions and an outdoor cafeteria. The ceilings are lined with Victorian Ash. The shapes for the ceiling give a free-flowing form to the building. Brush Box has been used for the circulation and information desks. The tree trunk columns are Grey lronbark from New South Wales. Arches and various-shaped windows add interest to the internal structure. The carpet design reflects the Eltham environment and compliments the natural colours and timbers used in the building. Tiles by artist Felix Bosari feature in the building and additional art by local artists added externally and internally to the building. Since 1994 the library has undergone a major extension to cater for children’s services and others. See also EDHS_02111 construction, eltham library -
Eltham District Historical Society Inc
Photograph - Colour Print, Belle Vue, Livingstone Road, Eltham, c.2015
Belle Vue property in Livingstone Road, Eltham was once owned by Society member Jo McCormick. Jo was a valued member of our committee and dear friend of many of our members until her death in 2009. Belle Vue is the farmhouse of a property that is now a significant part of suburban Eltham, just a short distance north of the town centre. Originally purchased by pioneer Eltham farmer Henry Stooke, the present-day old farmhouse sits within an extensive suburban residential area. The history of the property is largely based on a heritage assessment prepared by consultant Lorraine Huddle for Nillumbik Shire Council. Additional information from our Society records reveals Belle Vue farm comprised about 56 ha (140 acres) extending northerly from the northern boundary of Holloway’s 1851 Little Eltham subdivision. On the present day map the southern boundary was just north of Elsa Court and Grove Street. The western boundary was the Diamond Creek and extended northerly to Main Road where it turns easterly towards Research. It was traversed by the main road to Kangaroo Ground and beyond and from 1912 by the railway to Hurstbridge. From 1895 the farm was owned by William Williams and his wife Mary Ann. In 1914 -15 they built a new house now known as Belle Vue. They sold the land in 1920 and residential subdivision began soon after that. Belle Vue remains today on a substantially subdivided and very much reduced size residential lot in Livingstone Road. The house and many old trees on the site were subject to a heritage overlay under the Nillumbik Planning Scheme. Despite that overlay, the development and subdivision of the original land resulted in most of the heritage listed trees being removed. belle vue, eltham, livingstone road