The present store was built circa 1900 to replace another which had been destroyed by fire in 1898, which had replaced a predecessor on the opposite side of the road in 1865. The store was also used as a post office until early 2000s. The general store is historically significant because it has a long association with Kangaroo Ground and has been an important centre of community life for more than 120 years - Council meetings used to be conducted in the front room of the store at a time when Kangaroo Ground rivalled Eltham as the major centre of the Shire. The general store is historically and aesthetically significant as one of a group of three well preserved public buildings in the Kangaroo Ground hamlet and as a major heritage component of Kangaroo Ground which was one of the earliest settled areas of the Shire and which has the character of an English village rather than an Australian settlement. Covered under Heritage Overlay, Nillumbik Planning Scheme. Published: Nillumbik Now and Then /​ Marguerite Marshall 2008; photographs Alan King with Marguerite Marshall.; p77 Today the general store is an uncommon form of trade but the one at Kangaroo Ground continues a long tradition of friendliness and service. For more than 100 years it has been a centre of community life. In the settlement’s early days a previous general store, on the same site, was the meeting place for the Eltham District Road Board, precursor to the Eltham Shire Council. For years Kangaroo Ground rivalled Eltham as the shire’s major centre. It developed very differently from the rest of the shire as its rich soil attracted prosperous Presbyterian Scots who had large agricultural properties.1 The present store was built to replace another one, which had burnt down in 1898, after replacing a predecessor on the other side of the road in 1865. The store retains its outward character and its cellar, although inside it has changed considerably. It now includes a café and offers local produce, milk bar products, grocery items, gas and other fuel. Until early this century the store was also used as a post office. Kangaroo Ground’s first postmaster was Andrew Ross, who first operated from the school opposite, then from his hotel next to the present tennis court site. The first postmaster at this store was Edward Weller, followed in 1868 by James Anderson. At that time a mail coach ran three times a week between Eltham and Woods Point through Kangaroo Ground, Yarra Flats, Healesville, Fernshaw, Marysville and Matlock. Some early postmasters were Rodger, McLaughlin, Greenway and Burns.2 Burns was the only postmaster operating from the store. The others operated from Andrew Ross’s hotel. The mail service improved in 1892 when coaches ran from Melbourne to Queenstown (now known as St Andrews) and changed horses at Kangaroo Ground twice daily. The only telegraph office in the district at that time was at the Kangaroo Ground Post Office. Telegrams to outlying areas such as Queenstown and Kinglake had to be sent by hand. A local resident in the early 1900s often rode his pony to deliver telegrams and was paid one shilling a mile porterage. The store has also contributed to the lighter side of Kangaroo Ground life. During the years that Con Wraight owned the store, between 1906 and 1946, a new piano was needed for the Kangaroo Ground Hall, so monthly dances were held to raise money. When the piano was bought, a grand ball was held in the Kangaroo Ground Hall to celebrate the occasion and supper followed at Mr Wraight’s barn, cleaned especially for the occasion. Every New Year’s Eve, a Scottish piper would set off from between the store and the schoolhouse, playing his pipes, and march to Cameron’s Pigeon Bank homestead on the Kangaroo Ground-Warrandyte Road. Between 1914 and 1922, the store was a station for the Kangaroo Ground Bush Fire Brigade’s tanker. It consisted of a wooden barrel on a cart, fitted with a hand-pump, and stood on the side of the road outside the store. Joy Ness, who belonged to an early Kangaroo Ground family, moved here in 1940 and recalled her impressions of the store at that time: ‘It was a very dark shop stained in a dark colour and on the walls just below the ceiling hung hurricane lamps, ropes, kitchen utensils and other goods for sale. ‘Goods were weighed on a brass scale with weights, on which mothers also weighed their babies, because the nearest Infant Welfare Centre was at Greensborough. The bacon was cut with a hand slicer and later a pot-bellied stove warmed the store. Farmers and other locals used to gossip around it as they collected their daily mail. In those days the butter and cheese were kept in the cellar as no ice was delivered for cooling.’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, eltham-yarra glen road, kangaroo ground general store

This Holy Bible is entitled "The Holy Bible containing the Old and New Testaments, translated out of the original tongues: and with former translations diligently compared and revised by His Majesty's Spiritual Command." It was printed by Sir D. Hunter Blair and M.T. Bruce in Edinburgh, 1836, printers to the King's most Excellent Majesty, H.B.S." The Bible belonged to David and Alice Ellis, a young couple married in Dublin in 1855. It has been handed down in the Ellis family until it was donated, together with other personal effects, in 2004 by David and Alice’s granddaughter, daughter of David Ellis Junior. Alice treated the Bible as an important posession. On 6th October 1855 newlyweds David and Alice Ellis set sail for Australia in the brand new Schomberg, considered the most perfect clipper ship. She was built as an emigrant ship in Aberdeen and set sail from Liverpool on her maiden voyage, bound for Melbourne, Australia. She was loaded with 430 passengers plus cargo that included iron rails and equipment intended for building the Geelong Railway and a bridge over the Yarra from Melbourne to Hawthorn. On 27th December 1855, only one day from her Melbourne destination, the Schomberg was grounded on a sand-spit on the Victorian coast near Peterborough. The passengers and crew were all safely rescued by a passing small steamer, the SS Queen, which traded between Melbourne and Warrnambool, and taken to Melbourne. The passengers had been told, when leaving the sinking Schomberg, that all they could take with them was a small basket or handbag. A newspaper article later mentioned that one of the things Alice made space for in her basket was her Bible. (It is unclear whether Alice took any possessions with her onto the SS Queen, but a note accompanying the donation of the Bible and basket states that the items were “left on deck and salvaged as Schomberg went down”.) Another steamer was despatched from Melbourne to retrieve the passengers’ luggage from the Schomberg and Alice was reunited with all of her boxes of belongings. Other steamers helped unload the cargo until the change in weather made it too difficult. Although the Schomberg was wrecked there were no lives lost. At that time David was 23 years old (born in Wales, 1832) and his new bride Alice was 26 (born in Dublin, 1829). They had been given letters of introduction to people in Tasmania so they travelled there from Melbourne. However the couple only stayed on that island for about a year before they returned to the Western District of Victoria. David worked for Mr Neil Black as a gardener for a while then, when the land in the area was made available by the Victorian government, David and Alice claimed a selection of land on Noorat Road in the Terang district. They settled there for the remainder of their lives, expanding their property “Allambah” as opportunities arose. A document accompanying the donation lists the names of six children; William, Grace (c. 1859-1946), Thomas (c. 1866 – 1939), David (c. 1962 – 1953), James and Victor. David died on 13th April 1911, aged 79, at their property. Alice passed away the following year, November 1912, aged 83. Alice’s obituary described her as “a very homely, kindly-natured woman, who was highly esteemed by a large circle of friends; and she was also a firm adherent of the Presbyterian Church”. At the time of Alice’s death she left behind three sons and one daughter. Her daughter Grace Ellis was also a very active member of the Terang Presbyterian Church and a member of the PWMU (Presbyterian Women’s Missionary Union). She was also involved in the Red Cross and other charities. Grace passed away in 1946, aged 87. David and Alice Ellis were amongst the very earlies pioneers of the Terang district of Western Victoria. Their donated possessions are a sample of the personal effects of emigrants to Australia. The donated items are a sample of the personal goods carried aboard a significant migrant ship in 1855. They are also significant for their association with the Schomberg. The Schomberg, which is on the Victorian Heritage Register (VHR S612), has great historical significance as a rare example of a large, fast clipper ship on the England to Australia run, carrying emigrants at the time of the Victorian gold rush. She represents the technical advances made to break sailing records between Europe and Australia. Flagstaff Hill’s collection of artefacts from the Schomberg is significant for its association with the shipwreck, The collection is primarily significant because of the relationship between the objects, as together they have a high potential to interpret the story of the Schomberg. It is archaeologically significant as the remains of an international passenger Ship. It is historically significant for representing aspects of Victoria’s shipping history and for its association with the shipwreck and the ship, which was designed to be fastest and most luxurious of its day Bible, known as the Ellis - Schomberg Bible, with patterned brown leather cover. Printed by Sir D. Hunter Blair and M.T. Bruce, Edinburgh 1836. Bookmark of card placed within Bible’s pages is from Keswick Book Depot, Melbourne. Bible has hand written inscriptions inside front and back covers and has been well used. Bible was amongst the possessions of David and Alice Ellis, passengers on the Schomberg when wrecked in 1855.Scripture references and notes are hand written in pencil on front and back inner pages. Bookmark card has printed inscription; on front “BOOK MARK / KESWICK / BOOK / DEPOT / EVERYTHING / EVANGELISTIC / 315 COLLINS ST / MELBOURNE / CENT. 3013”, on back is line drawing of a stem of iris flowers above the verse “The entrance of Thy / words giveth light; it / giveth understanding / unto the Simple. Ps. 119-30” flagstaff hill, warrnambool, shipwrecked coast, flagstaff hill maritime museum, maritime museum, shipwreck coast, flagstaff hill maritime village, great ocean road, schomberg, holy bible, schomberg bible, d hunter blair and m t bruce, 1836 bible, 1855 shipwreck, peterborough shipwreck, ss queen, david ellis, alice ellis, allambah terang, dublin emigrants, terang presbyterian church, western district victoria

Hawthorn hedges are important reminders of Kangaroo Ground's Scottish heritage. They are Registered on the Victorian Heritage Register. They are "historically significant because the planting of hawthorn hedges reflects the adoption of Eurorpean farming techniques by the Kangaroo Ground population in the period following settlement and because the grid pattern of paddocks that the Hawthorn hedges define is very different to today's farm landscapes." Covered under Heritage Overlay, Nillumbik Planning Scheme. Published: Nillumbik Now and Then /​ Marguerite Marshall 2008; photographs Alan King with Marguerite Marshall.; p21 Hawthorn hedges bordering Kangaroo Ground’s gently rolling farmlands are important reminders of its Scottish heritage and are rare so close to Melbourne.1 As early as the 1840s newly arrived farmers from Scotland planted hawthorn hedges around their properties, to protect crops from the numerous kangaroos and wallabies. Many of these hedges survive today. These farmers had the good fortune to settle some of the most fertile land available for cropping in the Colony of Victoria. At that time the black volcanic soil could sustain an amazing two crops a year. By the mid 1850s, 500 acres (202ha) of wheat were growing in Kangaroo Ground. But the crops were threatened by kangaroos, which were so plentiful, that Surveyor-General, Robert Hoddle, named the district Kangaroo Ground in 1838. As post-and-rail fences proved inadequate barriers for the bounding kangaroos, the Scots planted hawthorn hedgerows as they had done in Scotland. Some also used the hedges to net birds, presumably for the table. Interestingly the farmers in the bordering townships of Panton Hill and Christmas Hills, did not plant hawthorn hedges around their properties. Perhaps it was because by the time they settled in the 1860s and 1870s most of the wildlife had been gunned down by residents.2 The canny Scots planted the hedges on public land outside their own farms, as the hedgerows could spread to about five yards (five m) in width. With this impenetrable barrier Kangaroo Ground’s industrious farmers flourished to gain the economic power that saw the Shire of Eltham governed from Kangaroo Ground for 79 years (1858-1937). The Scots jealously guarded their land, so hard to get in Scotland. That is why they refused to release any of it ‘for local roads to follow easier grades as was the case in surrounding districts where roads generally followed ridgelines or streams’.3 Instead the roads were built in accordance with the magnetic bearings of their first survey in 1847 whether that suited the steep topography or not. This could force traffic to diverge when wet through Greensborough and Diamond Creek. Until 1921, the Eltham-Yarra Glen Road beside Wellers Restaurant, ‘dipped down into the upper reaches of Stony Creek’.4 Later some corners were compulsorily cut for the increasing motor traffic. As late as the 1960s, corners were cut to form sweeping curves above and alongside the Kangaroo Ground Cemetery and opposite the Emergency Operations Centre. In the latter case, the farmers – understanding their hedgerows as important heritage – insisted upon their reinstatement to conform to the altered road alignment. Kangaroo Ground’s ancient manna gums also point to the district’s history and to that of the hedgerows. The Aboriginal people had transformed the original forests into grasslands with the fires they lit to attract kangaroos, (which the Scots were to exclude by planting hedgerows). But the Wurundjeri hunters left the gums (Eucalyptus vimminalis cygnetensis), on the grasslands as ‘stalking trees’ to hunt kangaroos. The hawthorn hedges in Kangaroo Ground were neglected for around 60 years from about the middle of the 20th century. Bushfires had created gaps and the hedgerows were not trimmed. Then in late 2005, local historian Mick Woiwod, formed a group to lobby the Nillumbik Shire to restore the hedges, which could last for many centuries. Some hedges in parts of Britain date back to AD 800.5 Although the original Scottish farmers have gone, the hedges are a reminder of when they flourished in the district, which has changed little in 150 years.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, eltham-yarra glen road, hawthorn hedgerow, kangaroo ground

Nillumbik Shire Council transferred to the former Diamond Valley Shire Offices in Greensborough after municipal restructuing. The offices became the official Nillumbik Shire Council Offices on 16 October 1995. The former Shire of Diamond Valley Civic Centre or Shire Office building was officially opened on 26th February 1972. Archtiects were A.K. Lines, McFarlane & Marshall and it was built by L.U. Simon Pty Ltd, The Diamond Valley Shire had been created in 1964 from part of the City of Heidelberg. On December 15, 1994 the Shire of Nillumbik was established. Under the Council amalgamations imposed by the Kennett government, the Shire of Eltham, Shire of Diamond Valley and City of Heidelberg ceased to exist with the establishment of Nillumbik Shire Council and the City of Banyule.The new Nillumbik shire surrended the west riding from Eltham to Banyule but in place gained parts of the former Diamond Valley Shire which itself had been created in 1964 from parts of the City of Heidelberg. Three unelected and non-local Commissioners were put in place by the government bringing democracy into question by many members of the local community. The Commissioners determined to abandon the former Shire of Eltham offices located in Main Road, Eltham and in turn occupy the former Shire of Diamond Valley offices located at the boundary of the new shire with Banyule, in Civic Drive, Greensborough. In July 1996 the Commissioners sold the former Eltham Shire Offices and had them bulldozed leading to many years of communiity protest over the process and future development applications. The site has remained vacant ever since. Published: Nillumbik Now and Then /​ Marguerite Marshall 2008; photographs Alan King with Marguerite Marshall.; p43 It was the need for roads that led to this district’s first council. In 1853 a committee was formed to improve the rough roads, some in Kangaroo Ground being almost impassable in winter.1 The committee fundraised by voluntary levies and grants to improve in particular, the main road between Kangaroo Ground and the Plenty River. From this committee arose the Eltham District Road Board, in 1856, which was the precursor to the Eltham Shire Council. The Board’s first chairman was Kangaroo Ground farmer, John Barr. Secretary was the former committee’s secretary, Andrew Ross, Kangaroo Ground’s first school teacher, and founder of the district newspaper, The Evelyn Observer.2 Most of the board’s income came from a toll-house north of the Lower Plenty Bridge, which funded such projects as a road from Kangaroo Ground to the Caledonia Diggings. In 1871 the Shire of Eltham was proclaimed, with its boundaries the same as those of the Road Board, and Councillor A Donaldson of Kangaroo Ground was the first president. Eltham was at the southern tip of the shire, which extended north to Kinglake and east beyond Yarra Glen. In 1878, part of Kinglake was added to the shire, while the area east of Watts River, near Healesville was removed. In 1912, then again in 1958, the shire was further reduced. Yarra Glen, Steels Creek, Tarrawarra, parts of Healesville and Christmas Hills, were transferred to the Shire of Healesville. In 1972 a smaller area, at Kinglake, was transferred to the Shire of Yea, leaving 277 square kilometres in the Eltham Shire. Perhaps no other Victorian municipality has had so many meeting places. Although from 1858 to 1904, the council convened at the office in the home of Secretary Charles Wingrove, the board, and later the council, also met at other more central locations.3 The board moved from the Fountain of Friendship Hotel to the Eltham Courthouse, to the Kangaroo Ground schoolhouse. It then met at the Kangaroo Ground Hotel, which some considered put it in danger of interruptions by people ‘the worse for liquor’.4 In 1885 the council met at the hall on Mr J Donaldson’s land at Kangaroo Ground. After Wingrove’s retirement, the council rented space at the Kangaroo Ground General Store and Post Office. Then, in 1917, the council bought the former office of The Evelyn Observer, after its printing works transferred to Hurstbridge. In 1934, fire destroyed the shire office, which was temporarily relocated to the Kangaroo Ground home of Shire Secretary, Mr P J McMahon. In 1941, the shire office moved to a new building (which included a public hall) in Eltham, at the corner of Arthur Street and Main Road, where the Eltham Village Shopping Centre was eventually built. Growth required new offices, which opened in 1965, on the former Shillinglaw property in Main Road.5 In 1994, as part of municipal restructuring under the Jeff Kennett Liberal Government, most of the Eltham Shire formed part of the new Shire of Nillumbik. It joined with the north section of the Diamond Valley Shire and parts of the Healesville and Whittlesea municipalities. The Diamond Valley Shire had been created in 1964, from part of the City of Heidelberg. Turbulence followed Nillumbik Shire’s formation. Under the Commissioners the council transferred to the former Diamond Valley Shire offices in Greensborough, and the Eltham council offices were demolished. In March 1997 the first five-member Nillumbik Council was elected. But, in October 1998, the government suspended the council and appointed an administrator . Early in 1999, shire residents voted to increase councillors to nine: comprising five ward councillors and four shire-wide councillors. Elections were held in March 1999. Then, before the March 2002 elections, nine new wards were created.6 In 2008 these were reduced to seven. Today [2008] the council governs a varied population of more than 60,000 people living in townships and on bush properties in the green wedge.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, greensborough, nillumbik shire council offices, civic drive

Taken in 1910, this photograph depicts a scene of Bridge road in Newtown, Beechworth. Walking on the road are two men on horseback, one of which is pulling a carriage with a small dog standing beside it. Behind them are a line of small buildings and shops. Small industries began to expand dramatically in Beechworth, particularly during the 1860s, leading to a strengthening of the towns economy. As early as 1853, areas surrounding the waterway known as Spring Creek were surveyed with the intent of mapping out plans for new roads and building allotments. Land was sold and new buildings were erected, creating an expansion of the Beechworth township and retail services. One building shown in this photograph is Straughair and Duncan's Beechworth Foundry. This business was established in 1858 through the partnership of Mark Straughair and John Duncan. It dealt mostly in the manufacturing of castings and mining machinery, receiving orders from all over the Ovens district. The Business eventually collapsed after the deaths of Straughair in 1882 and Duncan in 1896 but was reopened by W.H. Phillips in 1905. The two other buildings are both associated with the name McKenzie. Evidence suggests that the McKenzie family has a long association with the town of Beechworth. This photograph is historically significant as it provides insight into the nineteenth and twentieth century industrial expansions that happened in the area of Newtown, leading to the urbanisation of Beechworth. Black and white rectangular photograph printed on matte photographic paper mounted on card.Reverse: Newton / 1997.2648 / 33 Newton Beechworth / 84-219-1 / McKenzies / BMM3055 / newtown beechworth, bridge road, 1910, j. duncan, r. mckenzie, m. straughair, industrial growth, ford street, beechworth foundry, straughair and duncan, mckenzie and sons grainstore, mckenzie family store

Taken in approximately 1930, this photograph depicts the ruins of Rosehill Dairy. A woman stands beside the ruins, observing them solemnly. The owner of this once prominent dairy, John Brewer, was born in Cornwall, England in 1832. After coming to Australia in 1849, Brewer worked in various forms of livestock transportation. Upon hearing of the vast discovery of gold in Victoria's north-east, he engaged in mining in the Ovens Goldfield district before starting his own dairy on Wooragee road (now Old Wooragee road). The Wooragee Valley, approximately five kilometres north of Beechworth, was used extensively during the nineteenth century to build farming practices in the area, possessing eighteen farms by 1860. Brewer enjoyed a prosperous career in the dairy industry, personally delivering milk to the residents of Beechworth. He died on the thirteenth of August 1915, a few weeks shy of his eighty-third birthday. As this photograph is dated approximately fifteen years later, it can be assumed that the dairy fell into neglect following his death. This photograph is historically significant as it provides insight the development of the dairy industry in Beechworth in the second half of the nineteenth century.Black and white square photograph printed on matte photographic paper Reverse: 1997.2912 / John Brewers / Rosehill / Dairy / top of the 'rising sun' /john brewer, 1930 beechworth, rosehill dairy, dairy industry beechworh, dairy factories beechworth, dairying, dairy farm beechworth, wooragee road, wooragee valley, old wooragee road, dairy farm ruins

Believed to have been taken sometime between 1858 and 1908, featuring a man with moustache, dressed in hat and long riding coat, seated on a bob-tailed horse, is stopped in the middle of a wide dirt road in Beechworth. He is outside a row of businesses, including R.McKenzie & Sons Grain Store and Mackenzie Family Store (Wholesale & Retail Est. 1855), along a sloping hill. Behind the main rider are a parked horse and laden two-wheeled cart backed up directly outside the grain store's verandah, and another man is driving a horse and four-wheeled wagon forward towards them. At the bottom of the hill is a bridge (Newtown Bridge) with forked road on the far side, leading to a number of houses on both sides of another hill. This image is looking down Bridge Street, Newtown, Beechworth and across to Ford Street (left) and High Street (right). Road-making was a focus of town development during the 1850s, and the wide streets were created on the instructions of the surveyor-general to be between sixty-six and ninety-nine feet wide to give the town a pleasing aspect.This photograph is important in showing the development and expansion of the various businesses and buildings in Bridge Street of Newtown, Beechworth. Black and white rectangular photograph printed on paperReverse: 6980/ PH 118/ 1998.00059/beechworth, new town, newtown, newtown beechworth, local business, mackenzie family store, mackenzie's family store, mackenzie, grain store, bridge, ford steet, high street, colonial australia, australian gold rushes, mining technology, beechworth historic district, indigo gold trail, migration, indigo shire, mckenzie and sons grainstore, mckenzie family store, mckenzie, newtown bridge

Depicted in the photograph is Newtown Bridge or the Newtown Falls Bridge, in Beechworth, Victoria. Noted for its location, detailed craftsmanship and stonemasonry by Scottish stonemasons the Newtown Bridge was built in the 19th century provincial town of Beechworth (completed in 1875). The bridge was built over Spring Creek, spanning 6.3 meters wide and 24.8 meters tall. Beechworth held a distinct role in the administrative and commercial management of Victoria's north-eastern goldfields, with many objects and structures still well preserved from the towns establishment. The bridge indicates the growth of the town, replacing a previous timber structure as well as its association to the mining activity in the area and the rapid increase in Australia's economy that led to investment and development of roads and railways. The local granite used in the construction of the single arch Newtown Bridge makes the bridge and other buildings made with the granite unique to the area, the honey-toned material distinct to Beechworth. This photograph is historically significant as it provides insight into the industrial development of Beechworth and the surrounding area, contributed to by the goldfields. The photograph further captures the representation of vernacular engineering traditions and Scottish stonemasonry.Two sepia-toned rectangular photographs featuring a bridge in the background printed on matte photographic paper mounted on card.Reverse: 97.2324/ Newtown Bridge/ Beechworthbridge, newtown beechworth, newtown bridge, newtown, beechworth, beechworth falls bridge, beechworth mining district, spring creek,

Taken between 1928 and 1930, depicted is the Bethanga Bridge under construction. The Bridge was completed in 1930 and was built to assist residents of the Bethanga district to travel to Albury. Other bridges would become submerged by the backed-up water of the Murray and Mitta Rivers so the Bethanga bridge was built two miles above the Mitta Weir. The Bethanga Bridge was built north of the future Hume Dam which would be completed in 1936. At 2430 feet long, Bethanga Bridge was the longest road bridge in Australia at the time of its completion. The Bridge is 20 feet wide and made up of nine 270 feet long spans. Materials used include ten tons of paint for the steel works; 1600 tons of steel; 900 tons of timber for the decking; and reinforced concrete for the piers. The tender for the construction was awarded to C. Ruwolt Pty. Ltd., engineers who were located on Victoria Street, West Richmond. The contract was awarded for £71,890. It was predicted between 250 and 300 men would find employment on the project. The news was well received by trade unions at the time as there had been a drop in available engineering work.This photograph is historically significant as it depicts the progress of the Bethanga Bridge construction, which was important infrastructure for the area. It is also a good example of methods used in the area to assist in travel over the river prior to the construction of the Hume Dam.Black and white rectangular photo printed on matte photographic paper.Reverse: 1997 3186 / 84-19-3 / This is the bridge. / It is not yet open to traffic / yet. will not be completed / until May next / It is a wonderful bridge the / pillars are 100 feet high. / KODAK PRINT Envelope Obverse: Peterson PHOTO / Hume Weir Envelope Reverse: BMM 84-20-1,2+3. bethanga bridge, lake hume, hume dam, hume weir, murray river, bridge, bethanga, albury

First edition copy of James Dawson's book, "Australian Aborigines" (1881). Dawson's book draws on his daughter Isabella's ability to speak the local languages and attempts a balanced description of a culture he considered ill-used and under-appreciated by white settlers. This work remains one of the more valuable insights into the life of First Nations people at the point of first European contact.Title page of James Dawson's book "Australian Aborigines""AUSTRALIAN ABORIGINES" BY JAMES DAWSON THE LANGUAGES AND CUSTOMS OF SEVERAL TRIBES OF ABORIGINES IN THE WESTERN DISTRICT OF VICTORIA, AUSTRALIA BY JAMES DAWSON GEORGE ROBERTSON MELBOURNE, SYDNEY AND ADELAIDE MDCCCXXXIcdhs, cdhsfirstnations, djargurd wurrung, djargurdwurrung, isabella dawson

Three Djargurd Wurrung people on Country, pictured in front of Mt Leura, Camperdown c1875. This image also shows early primitive dwellings, Ower's flour mill (built 1868) and surviving native vegetation. Image of three Djargurd Wurrung people seated in front of Mt Leura, Camperdown, taken near corner of Scott and Curdie Streets c1875. On back: Early 1870s, Bought at first land sale Cr Scott & Curdie St, F.H. Grant, 11 Adeney Streetcdhs, djargurdwurrung, wombeetch puyuun, camperdown george, prince charlie, mount leura, mount sugarloaf, mt sugarloaf, ower's mill, cdhsfirstnations

This etching was created of Camperdown c1850s showing a group of First Nations people and early dwellings and native vegetation around Mounts Leura and Sugarloaf. Camperdown was surveyed by Robert Dunbar Scott in 1851. First dwelling constructed by David Fenton in 1853 on site of Commercial Hotel. Etching of early Camperdown scene showing group of First Nations people in the foreground with early buildings, native vegetation and Mount Leura and Mount Sugarloaf in the background. On front: Mt Leura, Camperdowncdhs, djargurd wurrung, djargurdwurrung, mount leura, mt leura, mount sugarloaf, mt sugarloaf, cdhsfirstnations

''Renny Hill'', built c1876, was the home of William Andrew Taylor (1849-1927) and Isabella Park Taylor, nee Dawson (1842-1929). Isabella was a friend to First Nations people and together with her father, James Dawson, recorded their languages and customs. William Taylor was a farmer, Councillor and civic leader. In 1883 he gifted the world's oldest statue of Robert Burns to the people of Camperdown.Black and white image of ''Renny Hill'' homestead, Camperdown Renny Hill built 1876? Built for Isabella Park (Dawson) Taylor and William Taylormt sugarloaf, mount sugarloaf, cdhs, renny hill, djargurd wurrung, djargurdwurrung, cdhsfirstnations

"'Wuurong'' homestead (originally 'Basin Banks') was built c1867 by Donald McNicol (1812-1903) shepherd, store owner and pastoralist. The property was leased c1870 by James Dawson (1806-1900) Guardian of the Aborigines, pastoralist and environmentalist. James Dawson renamed the property 'Wuurrong'. His daughter, Isabella Park Dawson (1842-1929), recorded the languages and customs of Western Victorian First Nations people and together with her father, published the book "Australian Aborigines" (1881).Black and white photograph of ''Wuurong'' homestead Front: An Early Photograph of "Wuurrong" Built By Donald McNicolcamperdown, cdhs, wuurong, djargurd wurrung, djargurdwurrung, cdhsfirstnations

When he died at Camperdown in February 1883, Wombeetch Puyuun (Camperdown George) (c1820-1883), was the last member of the Liwura Gundidj clan of the Djargurd Wurrung, still living on Country.Sepia studio photograph of Wombeetch Puyuun (Camperdown George) in European dress Back: Camperdown George well known and loved aboriginecdhs, djargurd wurrung, djargurdwurrung, wombeetch puyuun, camperdown george, wombeech puyuun, cdhsfirstnations

When he died at Camperdown in February 1883, Wombeetch Puyuun (Camperdown George) (c1820-1883), was the last member of the Liwura Gundidj clan of the Djargurd Wurrung, still living on Country.Black and white studio photograph of Wombeetch Puyunn (Camperdown George) in traditional dress wearing a headband, kangaroo tooth necklace and possum skin cloak, holding a boomerang and carved shield Back: WOMBEETCH PUUYUUN, CHIEF, AND LAST OF THE LOCAL TRIBEScdhs, djargurd wurrung, djargurdwurrung, cdhsfirstnations

When he died at Camperdown in February 1883, Wombeetch Puyunn, also known as 'Camperdown George', was the last member of the Liwira Gundidj clan of the Djargurd Wurrung, still living on Country.Wombeetch Puyuun (Camperdown George) standing naked holding a walking stickBack: Camperdown George, 1874cdhs, wombeetch puyuun, camperdown george, djargurd wurrung, djargurdwurrung, cdhsfirstnations

When he died at Camperdown in February 1883, Wombeetch Puyuun, also known as 'Camperdown George', was the last member of the Liwira Gundidj clan of the Djargurd Wurrung still living on Country.Image of Wombeetch Puyuun (Camperdown George) wearing traditional possum skin cloak and holding a walking stick Back: George Camperdowncdhs, wombeetch puyuun, djargurd wurrung, djargurdwurrung, camperdown george

When he died at Camperdown in February 1883, Wombeetch Puyuun, also known as 'Camperdown George', was the last member of the Liwira Gundidj clan of the Djargurd Wurrung, still living on Country.Black and white photograph of Wombeetch Puuyun (Camperdown George)Back: XP 1924 Museum Victoriacdhs, wombeetch puyuun, djargurd wurrung, djargurdwurrung, cdhsfirstnations

Prince Charlie was the second last member of the Liwira Gundidj clan, of the Djargurd Wurrung, still living on Country. He died in 1882 at Framlingham Mission just months before his companion Wombeetch Puyuun (Camperdown George).Black and white photograph of Prince Charlie, an Aboriginal manFront top: J. JORDAN, Liebig Street, WARRNAMBOOL; front bottom: Prince Charlie, Camperdowncdhs, djargurd wurrung, djargurdwurrung, prince charley, cdhsfirstnations

Isabella Park Taylor, nee Dawson (1842-1929), friend of Western Victorian First Nations people, and student of their languages and customs. Isabella grew up at "Kangatong" (1844-1866) in the company of First Nations people and became fluent in their languages. With her father, James Dawson, she wrote the book "Australian Aborigines" (1881). Black and white photograph taken at "Kangatong", near Hawkesdale showing group of First Nations people in conversation with Isabella Dawson, seated on right with notebook in hand. Standing at left is Kaawirn Kuunawarn (also know as Hissing Swan and King David).James Dawson's daughter, Isabella, learning from the Aborigines on her father's station at "Kangatong" (From the original belonging to Miss M. Turner Shaw of S. Yarra. Copied by A.E. Jackson of Timboon.)cdhs, miss mary turner shaw, kaawirn kuunawarn, hissing swan, cdhsfirstnations

Isabella Park Taylor, nee Dawson (1842-1929), friend of Western Victorian First Nations people, and student of their languages and customs. Isabella grew up at "Kangatong" (1844-1866) in the company of First Nations people and became fluent in their languages. With her father, James Dawson, she wrote the book "Australian Aborigines" (1881).Black and white photograph taken at "Kangatong", near Hawkesdale, of seven Western Victorian First Nations people all seated in conversation with Isabella Dawson, seated at right with notebook and pen in hand.cdhs, cdhsfirstnations

James Dawson (1806-1900), pastoralist, friend to First Nations people, environmentalist, patron of the Arts and author of "Australian Aborigines" (1881). Dawson came from Bonnytoun, near Linlithgow, Scotland and arrived in Melbourne with his wife, Joan Alexander Park, on 2 May 1840. They made their first home in the colony farming in Port Phillip, near Anderson's Creek on the Yarra River, where their daughter, Isabella was born in 1842, then from 1844, moved to 'Kangatong' station on the Moyne River, east of Macarthur. In 1866 the Dawsons left the Port Fairy district and lived in various residences in Melbourne. By 1868 the family had settled in Camperdown at 'Wuurong', on the banks of Lake Bullen Merri. Unlike most people at the time, Dawson and his daughter shared a deep interest in, and respect for First Nations people. In 1876 James Dawson was appointed local Guardian of the Aborigines in the Camperdown district. He was a prolific letter writer and an early advocate for indigenous rights and was dedicated to exposing injustice and the maltreatment of First Nations people. He had befriended Wombeetch Puyuun (Camperdown George) who was the last of the local Djargurd Wurrung living on Country when he died in February 1883. In 1885 James Dawson erected the Wombeetch Puyuun Monument at Camperdown Cemetery in his memory. His friend's remains were reburied at the foot of the obelisk and the two dates, 1840-1883, mark the 43 years it took for European settlement to displace the Djargurd Wurrung from the Camperdown District.Sepia photograph of an elderly James Dawson taken in Scotland. Front: T. Rodger St. ANDREWS N.B. Back: THOMAS RODGER Photographer ST. ANDREWS ETABLISHED 1849cdhs, isabella dawson, camperdown cemetery, djargurdwurrung, cdhsfirstnations

In the early days of colonial Australia the governors and the land holders saw advantage in singling out certain First Nations people as leaders and distinguishing them in some way. This chest plate was issued to "King George" of the Koenghegulluk Clan of the Djargurd Wurrung whose Country was near Lake Colongulac. This chest plate is inscribed "King Colungulac" and is held in the Museum Victoria collection. ""King George"" is pictured wearing the chest plate in a photograph of First Nations people at Framlingham Mission in 1867.Colour photograph of brass chest plate inscribed "KING GEORGE COLUNGULAC" Front: "KING GEORGE COLUNGULAC"; Back: XP49214 Museum Victoriabreast plate, cdhs, cdhsfirstnations

When he died in February 1883, Wombeetch Puyuun was the last member of the Liwura Gundidj clan still living on Country at Camperdown. The Wombeetch Puyuun Monument was erected by his friend and Guardian, James Dawson in 1885, largely at his own expense. At the top is engraved 1840, which marked the beginning of the demise of the local First Nations people. Below are a boomerang, a club, and a message stick. At the bottom is the year 1883 which saw the last of the local First Nations people on Country with the death of Wombeetch Puyuun. On the base are the words: "In memory of the Aborigines of this district. Here lies the body of the chief, Wombeetch Puyuun, and the last of the local tribes". Dr Ken Coghill (Minister for Aboriginal Affairs) unveiling plaque in front of the Wombeetch Puyuun Monument in the Camperdown CemeteryBack: Dr Ken Coghill unveiling the plaque in front of the Aboriginal Monument in the Camperdown Cemetery Dec 12th 1983cdhs, djargurd wurrung, djargurdwurrung, cdhsfirstnations, first nations people

When he died in February 1883, Wombeetch Puyuun was the last member of the Liwura Gundidj clan still living on Country at Camperdown. The Wombeetch Puyuun Monument was erected by his friend and Guardian, James Dawson in 1885, largely at his own expense. At the top is engraved 1840, which marked the beginning of the demise of the local First Nations people. Below are a boomerang, a club, and a message stick. At the bottom is the year 1883 which saw the last of the local First Nations people on Country with the death of Wombeetch Puyuun. On the base are the words: "In memory of the Aborigines of this district. Here lies the body of the chief, Wombeetch Puyuun, and the last of the local tribes".Dr Ken Coghill (Minister for Aboriginal Affairs) unveiling plaque in front of the Wombeetch Puyuun Monument in the Camperdown CemeteryFront of the obelisk "1840-1883 IN MEMORY OF THE ABORIGINES OF THIS DISTRICT. HERE LIES THE BODY OF THE CHIEF WOMBEETCH PUYUUN AND LAST OF THE LOCAL TRIBES".cdhs, djargurd wurrung, djargurdwurrung, cdhsfirstnations, first nations people

When he died in February 1883, Wombeetch Puyuun was the last member of the Liwura Gundidj clan still living on Country at Camperdown. The Wombeetch Puyuun Monument was erected by his friend and Guardian, James Dawson in 1885, largely at his own expense. At the top is engraved 1840, which marked the beginning of the demise of the local First Nations people. Below are a boomerang, a club, and a message stick. At the bottom is the year 1883 which saw the last of the local First Nations people on Country with the death of Wombeetch Puyuun. On the base are the words: "In memory of the Aborigines of this district. Here lies the body of the chief, Wombeetch Puyuun, and the last of the local tribes".Dr Ken Coghill (Minister for Aboriginal Affairs) unveiling plaque in front of the Wombeetch Puyuun Monument in the Camperdown CemeteryBack: Dr Ken Coghill unveiling the plaque in front of the Aboriginal Monument in the Camperdown Cemetery Dec 12th 1983cdhs, djargurd wurrung, djargurdwurrung, cdhsfirstnations, first nations people

When he died in February 1883, Wombeetch Puyuun was the last member of the Liwura Gundidj clan still living on Country at Camperdown. The Wombeetch Puyuun Monument was erected by his friend and Guardian, James Dawson in 1885, largely at his own expense. At the top is engraved 1840, which marked the beginning of the demise of the local First Nations people. Below are a boomerang, a club, and a message stick. At the bottom is the year 1883 which saw the last of the local First Nations people on Country with the death of Wombeetch Puyuun. On the base are the words: "In memory of the Aborigines of this district. Here lies the body of the chief, Wombeetch Puyuun, and the last of the local tribes".Dr Ken Coghill (Minister for Aboriginal Affairs) unveiling plaque in front of the Wombeetch Puyuun Monument in the Camperdown CemeteryBack: Dr Ken Coghill unveiling the plaque in front of the Aboriginal Monument in the Camperdown Cemetery Dec 12th 1983cdhs, djargurd wurrung, djargurdwurrung, cdhsfirstnations, first nations people

When he died in February 1883, Wombeetch Puyuun was the last member of the Liwura Gundidj clan still living on Country at Camperdown. The Wombeetch Puyuun Monument was erected by his friend and Guardian, James Dawson in 1885, largely at his own expense. At the top is engraved 1840, which marked the beginning of the demise of the local First Nations people. Below are a boomerang, a club, and a message stick. At the bottom is the year 1883 which saw the last of the local First Nations people on Country with the death of Wombeetch Puyuun. On the base are the words: "In memory of the Aborigines of this district. Here lies the body of the chief, Wombeetch Puyuun, and the last of the local tribes".Dr Ken Coghill (Minister for Aboriginal Affairs) unveiling plaque in front of the Wombeetch Puyuun Monument in the Camperdown CemeteryBack: Dr Ken Coghill unveiling the plaque in front of the Aboriginal Monument in the Camperdown Cemetery Dec 12th 1983cdhs, djargurd wurrung, djargurdwurrung, cdhsfirstnations, first nations people