The 13th Australian Light Horse Regiment often referred to itself as the 'Devil's Own' because of its number 13. The regiment had an unofficial hat and collar badge cast featuring a dancing devil. The Prince of Wales (later Edward VIII) visited many Australian units on the Western Front and the Middle East during World War One (WWI). Rare photograph of the Prince of Wales in an informal setting with members of the 13th Light Horse in France 1917.Framed black and white photograph of two officers standing in front of a group of Australian soldiers and several villagers. Cream painted light wooden frame.Prince of Wales with members of the 13th Devil's Own, France 1917.13th light horse, devil's own, prince of wales, wwi, world war one

1975, 166, city of heidelberg repertory group, heidelberg theatre company inc, directed by flip brudenell

The children from Bulla Primary School were participating in a performing arts event at their school. The group in the photograph were singing in a choir. Other items that the children performed in were dancing, play acting and playing a musical instrument.A non-digital coloured photograph of five boys and seven girls are standing and sitting in an open area and performing for an audience.bulla primary school, performing arts, choral singing

The students from Bulla Primary School were participating in drama activities which included acting, dancing and singing. The children who are dressed in traditional costumes in this photo were preparing to perform in the activities.The variety of performing activities that the children engaged in gave them an introduction the diversity of areas of the performing arts.A non-digital coloured photograph of a group of children with an adult gathered around in a covered-in outdoor area with four of the children dressed in traditional costumes and lined up in front of the others.drama activities, bulla primary schooil

The students from Bulla Primary School were engaging in a variety of creative activities as part of their studies. The activities that they participated in were dancing, drama, singing and instrumental music. The activity in this photograph the children were preparing to lift the coloured banner into the air. It was an activity that involved group cooperation and coordination.This activity engaged the children in group cooperation and coordination.A non-digital coloured photograph of group of children standing in a grassed area, in a large circle while holding onto a large coloured circular banner with an adult supervising the group.creative activities, bulla primary school

The children at Bulla Primary School were engaged in a variety of entertainment activities which included drama, dancing and musical items. The four children in this photo were singing to the accompaniment of their teacher playing the guitar.A non-digital coloured photograph of a group seated in a covered-in outdoor area watching four children singing to the accompaniment of a man playing a guitar.musical activities, bulla primary school

The photograph was taken when the children, who were students at Bulla Primary School were engaged in performing a variety of artistic activities which included drama, dance and music.The performances were acted out at the school and parents and the wider community were invited to attend.A non-digital coloured photograph of a group of people seated in a sheltered outdoor area listening to eight children performing on a variety of musical instruments including keyboard, recorders and percussion in front of an audience. A teacher is standing to the left of the group observing them.musical activities, bulla primary school

Gunyah (aka The Surrey Hall) used in 1889 and after that for Masonic Lodge functions until they built the Emulation Hall in Rochester Road for local functions. There were many local dances both at Surrey Hall in mid 1930s, 1934 and 1935. Also on Saturday night at the Holy Redeemer. Foreword by the Honorable Wendy Baden-Powell.(Lord Baden-Powell's grand-daughter. Dedicated to Mr Jim Richards who followed in the great footsteps of "Rainbow" Simpson. History of scouting in Canterbury beginning with 1st Canterbury Scout Group. Includes many references to local Surrey Hills people.History of scouting in Canterbury beginning with 1st Canterbury Scout Group. Includes many references to local Surrey Hills people.Title Page: (signed by the author) James Nicolas17th camberwell, st paul's anglican church troop, surrey hall, gunyah, rainbow simpson, (mr) toby rechner, (m r) jim willis, (mr) jim richards, (mr) john wilson, (mr) c hammond, (mr) k smith, (mr) d hadaway, (mr) j mason, (mr) - fawcatt, (mr) g burmeister, (mr) george thomas, (mr) charles p middleton, (mr) w mccallum, (mr) h wilks, (mr) robert macfarlane, (mr) john moffat, (mr) gary everitt, (mr) peter milburn, (mr) bruce manks, (mr) wilfred o darby, (mr) - buscombe, (mr) - buchanan, (mr) j sinclair, (mr) f edwards, (mr) ray underwood, (mr) jack sinclair, (mr) don pittard, (mr) don webster, (mr) gerard van veenendaal

The Box Hill Reporter noted on 22 January 1926 that at the monthly meeting of the Surrey Hills Progress Association the Secretary reported that “the ground had been purchased for the Boy Scout Hall, that plans had been prepared, and accepted by the building committee. As soon as the timber was available the work would be proceeded with. The Boy Scout Hall movement has been taken up by the association to try to secure a permanent meeting place for the boys of the district. Up till now they have no fixed place, nor have they had a qualified scout master. Mr. Bert Chenu, one of the committee, has been appointed to that position, and is carrying out his duties energetically. Having raised enough money to purchase the land (situated in Robinson's road, Surrey-Hills near the Drill Hall) the association's committee is now about to erect the building by means of properly organised working bees.” The Association organised markets, card evenings and dances to raise necessary funds. The volunteer labour included the parents of boys who had become scouts, led by builder Robert Hayes of 186 Union Road and his son, who was also a builder. Early ownership is unclear as it is believed that it was not purchased by the scouting movement until 1955. The hall was used by other groups as well as the scouts. Benmont Kindergarten operated on the site from c1930. This is confirmed by oral testimony, Sands & McDougall entries and the Alan Hold property register (part of the SHNC Heritage Collection.) It was also used as a ballet school and for local dances. The hall was situated on a small block of land, just 410 sq m, and in late 2019 it was put up for sale by Scouts Victoria. Most recently home to 1st Boroondara Scout Group and previously 11th Camberwell Scouts, it was sold for something near $1.3M. During May 2020 the modest hall was demolished. Items of significance were removed before the sale by Scout Heritage. A black and white photograph of a building with a small sign identifying it as 11th Camberwell Central Scout Group.robinson road, surrey hills, scout halls, scouts, buildings, structures and establishments, (mr) robert hayes, union road, builders, surrey hills progress association, benmont kindergarten, dances, ballet schools

Standing proud, still here, the spirit of ten ancestral matriarchs adorned in contemporary ceremonial cloaks. Representing our women past, present and future, her Spirit, our culture, our Country (spelt with a capital for its importance and this is part of First Peoples protocols on acknowledging Country, our strength, our resilience and healing towards a sustainable future). The black swan cloak refers to the black swan of Geelong and Ballarat were the swan has had its own fight to survive during the early colonial years where white swans were introduced by colonisers and the black swan fought back as they do not naturally get along. The wave pattern is taken from a traditional shield pattern held in the Melbourne Museum, South Eastern archive collection of shields. The wave refers to the water and travelling across water to fish, hunt and survive. This cloak is about survival, water, and the swan living on the water. It also refers to a contemporary dance of Kunuwarra the black swan, which was performed by a group Wadawurrung women (including artist Deanne Gilson) for Tanderrum (Melbourne – Naarm) in 2016. The dance is available to watch on youtube.Black swan, heart motif with water design on outer cloak, female figure and red native flower design on lining. Solid black trimming. Cloak is machine sewn and handstitched with hand stitching on shoulder seam.deanne gilson, first nations art, wadawurrung dja

October 15, 1979 was the very first publicly proclaimed White Cane Day in Victoria. Announced by Premier Hamer, onlookers were invited to learn more about the various societies in Victoria that assisted the blind and vision impaired. Barry Humphries was the guest of honour, and spoke with a small group before venturing out with his own white cane to test out Melbourne’s wet streets. Caravans were set up along Swanston Street to distribute information. The RAAF band played and a square dance exhibition was held by vision impaired dancers in Bourke Street. 13 B/W photographs w/ 20 negatives and 23 col. negativesOn the back of BRIP381.11 is a partially erased pencil description 'Kathy Zwald' and 'Doris Nothling".white cane day, barry humphries, doris nothling, kathy zwald

October 15, 1979 was the very first publicly proclaimed White Cane Day in Victoria. Announced by Premier Hamer, onlookers were invited to learn more about the various societies in Victoria that assisted the blind and vision impaired. Barry Humphries was the guest of honour, and spoke with a small group before venturing out with his own white cane to test out Melbourne’s wet streets. Caravans were set up along Swanston Street to distribute information. The RAAF Central band played and a square dance exhibition by The Lightfooters (a group ofvision impaired dancers) in Bourke Street. 12 B/W photographswhite cane day, raaf central band

The AFB were aware that accommodation options for blind people were limited and sought to open a hostel to assist with this.The first hostel opened in Lara Street, South Yarra but could not meet demand. In 1926, a suitable property 'Egremont' at 54 The Avenue, Windsor, came on the market. The price was £2650. Lack of funds to purchase seemed an insurmountable barrier. With assistance from the Trustees of the Edward Wilson Estate and the Felton Bequest a deposit of £650 was raised. In a huge step of faith the Committee took out a mortgage of £2000. The interest on the mortgage and its repayments weighed heavily on the Committee. The Avenue, as 'Egremont' was commonly termed, was also a seven roomed house. Mr Paterson and the Architect, Mr Parkes of Oakley and Parkes, immediately began planning an extension, fourteen single bedrooms were added. They were filled from the Waiting List. A Windsor Auxiliary was formed and worked to reduce the mortgage of £2000. An active programme of dances, card evenings, theatre nights and the like took place under the leadership of Mrs. Robertson. The Auxiliary also took an interest in the boarders, arranging entertainment and social activity. £1500. was still owed in 1930. Living side by side is no easy task for a group of people, and the Hostel meeting minute books are filled with stories of disputes over wireless sets, telephones, hot water bottles and wardrobes. In 1958, with rising costs and the growth of aged care centres, the Hostel was closed and the house sold to a succession of private buyers. In 2016 it still stands and has been refurbished as a guest house.B/W copy of newspaper photographThe hostel for blind women at 54 The Avenue, Windsor was established in 1926 to provide a place where sightless women may live together to their mutual advantage under proper and sympathetic supervision. The Windsor Hostel was sold in 1958. This building still stands today and has been refurbished.egremont, blind womens hostel, tilly aston

The Guiding Light Square Dancer club taking part in a street parade in Winnipeg, Canada, as part of the Canadian National Square and Round Dance convention. Marching in the group: Alan Egerton is front left partnered by Ruth and Wanda Egerton is front right partnered by Shane. Steven, Jeff, Margaret Snyder and Peggy Sitlington.1 color photograph of people in square dancing outfits walking in a street paraderecreation, margaret fox, wanda egerton, alan egerton, guiding light square dance club

Paterson Hall Story is told through the reminiscences of 23 people who played an active part in the life of a popular recreational and entertainment hub from 1929 to 1999. They relate how a simple concrete structure in Glenferrie Road, Kooyong became a 'home away from home' for people who were blind or vision impaired, their families and friends. The hall was originally built as a clubhouse for blind cricketers in 1927, but by 1929 it had been extended to include a social hall and other facilities including a verandah where spectators could watch the cricket. Over the years the hall was used for activities as diverse as square dancing, singing, craft classes, ball games, art and craft shows, drama groups and annual meetings.60 MP3 sound files of oral history interviews and book excerptsNarrated by Maurice Lockie, Bill Charles and Norah Tooheypaterson hall, association for the advancement of the blind, victorian blind cricket association

The Vision Australia Square Dance Club performed at the Kooyong Day Centre and got the audience up on their feet. Afterwards they posed on the oval with their flag.32 digital images of square dancers and dancingvision australia, wanda egerton, margaret fox, blind sports victoria, square dance club, virgil snyder, ian chapman

Black and white photograph of the Kooyong clubhouse, which was offically opened in 1929. Set above ground level, it provided blind cricket players with shelter and storage underneath, as well as a venue for dances and other social activities organised by groups and the AFB. The responsibility for the clubhouse was set out as a deed of agreement between three people (the Malvern Town Clerk, Mr Paterson and Mr Maxwell) and run independently of the Council, Blind Cricket clubs and the AFB.1 black and white image of the clubhouse at Kooyong buildings, association for the blind

Colour slides of girls in dance costumes performing at the Christmas party at Government House. Melbourne Legacy held an annual Christmas Party for Junior Legatees and Widows at Government House for many years. The year is unknown but likely to be during the 1950s. A group of slides in glass mounts with green tape are probably from a couple of consecutive years. They will be catalogued separately. Was with many other slides taken in the 1950s and 1960s. The slides have been photographed to make digital images and moved to archive quality sleeves. In many cases the original images were not well focussed and the digital image is the best available.A record of a Legacy Christmas party held at Government House.Colour slides x 2 of girls in dance costume at a Legacy Christmas party at Government House, in a glass mount with green tape.christmas party, government house party, dancing

A Melbourne Junior Legacy certificate that was awarded to Derithe Ames for first place in the 4.30pm Junior Class in December 1955. Throughout the year Melbourne Legacy provided classes for Junior Legatees such as dancing, gymnastics and eurythmics. Their skills were showcased in the Annual Demonstration. The certificate shows there were prizes and recognition for achievements. The certificate was with a group of items donated by Legatee Derithe Harrison, including several certificates, a silver metal trophy, and a green Junior Legacy patch for a uniform.A record of the recognition Junior Legatees received for achieving excellence in their classes.Printed certificate on white card awarded to Derithe Ames for first place in 4.30pm Junior Class. Signed in blue ink by the Class Leader (illegible), the instructor Miss Enez Domec-Carre, and the Chairman of Girls Group (illegible)junior legatee, derithe ames, girls classes

A membership certificate for Derithe Ames, a junior legatee in 1955. The text says 'During War many men offer themselves for Service in the Forces of the Empire. It is the obligation of Legacy to assist the children of those who fell, or who have since died. Junior Legatee was the term used for the children of deceased servicemen that Legacy took into their care. Throughout the year Melbourne Legacy provided classes for Junior Legatees such as dancing, gymnastics and eurythmics. Their skills were showcased in the Annual Demonstration. The certificate shows there were prizes and recognition for achievements. The certificate was with a group of items donated by Legatee Derithe Harrison, including several certificates, a silver metal trophy, and a green Junior Legacy patch for a uniform.A record of the membership of Junior Legatees.Printed certificate on white card awarded to Derithe Ames on becoming a member of Junior Legacy.Signed in black ink by President Arthur Amies on 9/9/1955.junior legatee, derithe ames

A Melbourne Junior Legacy certificate that was awarded to Derithe Ames for first place in the 4.30pm Intermediate Class in 1957. Throughout the year Melbourne Legacy provided classes for Junior Legatees such as dancing, gymnastics and eurythmics. Their skills were showcased in the Annual Demonstration. The certificate shows there were prizes and recognition for achievements. The certificate was with a group of items donated by Legatee Derithe Harrison, including several certificates, a silver metal trophy, and a green Junior Legacy patch for a uniform.A record of the recognition Junior Legatees received for achieving excellence in their classes.Printed certificate on white card awarded to Derithe Ames for first place in 4.30pm Intermediate Class. Signed in blue ink by the Class Leader (illegible), the instructor Miss Enez Domec-Carre, and the Chairman of Girls Group (illegible)junior legatee, derithe ames, girls classes

A Melbourne Junior Legacy certificate that was awarded to Derithe Ames for first place in the 4.45pm Intermediate Class in December 1958. Throughout the year Melbourne Legacy provided classes for Junior Legatees such as dancing, gymnastics and eurythmics. Their skills were showcased in the Annual Demonstration. The certificate shows there were prizes and recognition for achievements. The certificate was with a group of items donated by Legatee Derithe Harrison, including several certificates, a silver metal trophy, and a green Junior Legacy patch for a uniform.A record of the recognition Junior Legatees received for achieving excellence in their classes.Printed certificate on white card awarded to Derithe Ames for first place in 4.45pm Intermediate Class. Signed in blue ink by the Class Leader (illegible), the instructor Miss Enez Domec-Carre, and the Chairman of Girls Group (illegible). Date 12/12/1958junior legatee, derithe ames, girls classes

A Melbourne Junior Legacy certificate that was awarded to Derithe Ames for most improved in the 6pm Senior Girls Class. Throughout the year Melbourne Legacy provided classes for Junior Legatees such as dancing, gymnastics and eurythmics. Their skills were showcased in the Annual Demonstration. The certificate shows there were prizes and recognition for achievements. The certificate was with a group of items donated by Legatee Derithe Harrison, including several certificates, a silver metal trophy, and a green Junior Legacy patch for a uniform.A record of the recognition Junior Legatees received for achieving excellence in their classes.Printed certificate on white card awarded to Derithe Ames for most improved in 6pm Senior Girls Class. Signed in black ink by the Class Leader (illegible), the instructor Miss Enez Domec-Carre, and the Chairman of Girls Group (illegible). junior legatee, derithe ames, girls classes

A Melbourne Junior Legacy certificate that was awarded to Derithe Ames for highest marks in the Tuesday 6pm Senior Girls Class in December 1960. Throughout the year Melbourne Legacy provided classes for Junior Legatees such as dancing, gymnastics and eurythmics. Their skills were showcased in the Annual Demonstration. The certificate shows there were prizes and recognition for achievements. The certificate was with a group of items donated by Legatee Derithe Harrison, including several certificates, a silver metal trophy, and a green Junior Legacy patch for a uniform.A record of the recognition Junior Legatees received for achieving excellence in their classes.Printed certificate on white card awarded to Derithe Ames for highest mark in Tuesday 6pm Senior Girls Class. Signed in black ink by the Class Leader (illegible), the instructor Miss Enez Domec-Carre, and the Chairman of Girls Group (illegible). junior legatee, derithe ames, girls classes

A Melbourne Junior Legacy certificate that was awarded to Derithe Ames for highest marks in the Tuesday 6.30pm Senior Girls Class in December 1961. Throughout the year Melbourne Legacy provided classes for Junior Legatees such as dancing, gymnastics and eurythmics. Their skills were showcased in the Annual Demonstration. The certificate shows there were prizes and recognition for achievements. The certificate was with a group of items donated by Legatee Derithe Harrison, including several certificates, a silver metal trophy, and a green Junior Legacy patch for a uniform.A record of the recognition Junior Legatees received for achieving excellence in their classes.Printed certificate on white card awarded to Derithe Ames for highest mark in Tuesday 6.30pm Senior Girls Class. Signed in black ink by the Class Leader (illegible), the instructor Miss Enez Domec-Carre, and the Chairman of Girls Group (illegible). junior legatee, derithe ames, girls classes

A photo from a former Junior Legatee who participated in the Annual Demonstration. Normally it was held in the Melbourne Town Hall. In 1962 it was held at the Olympic Swimming Stadium. The floor was laid over the pool for the performance. Throughout the year Melbourne Legacy provided classes for Junior Legatees such as dancing, gymnastics and eurythmics. Their skills were showcased in the Annual Demonstration. The certificate was with a group of items donated by Legatee Derithe Harrison, including several certificates, a silver metal trophy, and a green Junior Legacy patch for a uniform.A record of the demonstration that was held in the Olympic Stadium.Black and white photo of ballerinas at the Olympic Stadium in 1962.junior legatee, derithe ames, annual demonstration, girls classes

An embroidered cloth Legacy badge patch that was given to Junior Legatees to add to their tunics. Throughout the year Melbourne Legacy provided classes for Junior Legatees such as dancing, gymnastics, elocution and eurythmics. Boys classes also included basketball, judo, swimming and boxing. Boys classes were generally held in the suburbs and girls classes were held at Legacy House, usually Tuesdays and Fridays. Uniforms were provided free of charge. The patch was with a group of items donated by Legatee Derithe Harrison, including several certificates, a photo and a silver metal trophy.A record of the equipment given to junior legatees for their classes.Green cloth embroidered patch to be added to uniforms.junior legatee, derithe ames, girls classes, jlc

A silver trophy that was awarded to Junior Legatee Derithe Ames in 1962 for attaining the highest marks in the Senior Girls 7.30pm class in 1962. Throughout the year Melbourne Legacy provided classes for Junior Legatees such as dancing, gymnastics, elocution and eurythmics. Boys classes also included basketball, judo, swimming and boxing. Boys classes were generally held in the suburbs and girls classes were held at Legacy House, usually Tuesdays and Fridays. The trophy was with a group of items donated by Legatee Derithe Harrison, including several certificates, a photo and an embroidered patch.A record of the prizes given to junior legatees in their classes.Silver metal trophy wtih curved arms and a dark maroon base.Engraved with 'JLC 1962 Senior 7.30pm Highest Marks Derithe Ames'junior legatee, derithe ames, girls classes

SUMMARY - Edna (Myers) Barrie, 1918 – 2018, Profile Early Life Edna was born at Melton and delivered by Hannah Watts. Her mother Martha walked in the dark at night with her basket under her arm to the bridge over the Toolern Creek Bridge and into Sherwin Street to the corner of Yuille Street to Hannah’s house Lynch Cottage. Martha’s husband was away shearing and eventually heard the news of the birth of their blue eyed third child and second daughter. She was born into a family that was surrounded by music; her father played the “squeeze box” and mother the mouth organ. From an early age the family were aware of the great composers, a framed picture of Beethoven, Chopin, Schubert and Wagner hung above the door to the lounge room of their 4 roomed cottage, the room where the piano stood. Her life on stage started as a singer aged 6 years at the Melton Mechanics Institute Hall. Edna was born with a natural ear for music learning piano and singing from her older sister Marjorie who became an accomplished pianist and soloist and renowned music teacher in Melton and district. In the 1920s and 1930s concerts at the Melton Mechanics Institute were regular events were the local talent was fostered. The Myers children, like other children of Melton and Rockbank, studied singing, piano and elocution, sat examinations, entered in competitions in South Street Ballarat, Footscray and Melbourne. In 1929 a Sacred Concert was broadcast by 3AR from the Hall as part of the Back to Melton Celebrations. Marjorie Myers performed two of the items on the piano. Edna attended Melton State School 430 from 1924 – 1933. Her father Fred had also attended the same school. In 1924 the School staged Cinderella at the Melton Mechanics Institute Hall with a cast of 33 students. After completing her education a Melton she boarded in South Melbourne and attending Melbourne Girls High School (MacRobertson Girls High School), a school which recognized her musical attributes. She travelled home on the train on the weekends, sometimes getting off at Rockbank to save a few pennies in fares. Working life The early 1930s the Depression was a difficult time for a young woman to find work. Jobs were often menial and given to the youngest and therefore cheapest applicant. She worked as sales assistant at Polonskis and Myer in the city, and Irvines Modes in Footscray. Working to 1pm on Saturday, and when held up by a customer meant missing the train home. While at Myer Department store she lived at home and rode her bike to the Melton railway station. On one occasion she had a nasty fall when a part of her bicycle came loose causing the bike to crash rendering her concussed and injuring her nose. During the 1930s she was given a camera “a little snap” by Mrs Kelly her landlady. This began her interest in photography documenting family life at their “Burnbank” home. Musically, while at Myers she participated in annual performances held at The Kings Hall and the Myer Mural Hall. Working in the basement at Myers she was often embarrassed when her name was called, customers assuming she belonged to the Myer Family. Ken Myer worked in the basement at the same time handling the ‘Wheeler’, a wicker basket used for moving goods around the store. The family philosophy was for the children to start at the bottom and work their way up. Social life Social life in her teenage years was connected also with Scots Presbyterian Church. She attended Sunday School classes and received book prizes for attendance. She loved to read and welcomed the times when she received new book. She took part in the Sunday School Anniversaries and was presented with a Bible from the Superintendent, Henry Robinson for her assistance with the music. Marriage and War years In 1941 Edna married Ernest “Bonnie” Barrie. War in the Pacific was soon to break out. While in Sydney on their honeymoon they met up with Jim Barrie who was on his way to Canada via Hawaii just missing Pearl Harbour by two days. Jim became a Spitfire Pilot and joined the RAF and was based in England. He returned to Australia later in RAAF to fight the Japanese off the coast of New Guinea. The three eldest Barrie brothers were farmers and food producers and were thus except from military service. Edna and Bon were members of the VAOC- Volunteer Air Observers Corp entailing being rostered on duty as plane spotters. The women took shifts during the day and the men at night which involved staying overnight in the Shire Offices. Later the spotting tower was built in the plantation opposite the Post Office. Edna and Bon carried on with this from their home in Ferris Rd when the threat of invasion had ceased Community life Community life in Melton revolved around fund raising events for the Melton Mechanics Institute for the War effort and keeping up with maintenance for the Hall. In 1944 the Minister for Health gave approval for the Shire of Melton to open and Infant Welfare Centre inviting Edna to form part of the Committee with seven other women. In 1948 she was President of Melton Branch of the Victorian Health Centres Association. She volunteered this use of her car driving the person in charge, Sister Smith to visit mothers and their babies. In 1963, along with Betty Jones and Isabel Snell, Edna was instrumental in forming the 1st Melton Cub Pack and later supported the formation of the 1st Melton Scouts. During 1963 – 1968 she completed the Australian Boy Scout Association Cub Pack Preliminary Training and achieved her Wood Badge. Country Women’s Association In 1944-1996 she was a member of the Melton Branch Country Women’s Association (CWA), Melton Branch, Secretary of the Branch in 1945 – 1946 and Branch International Secretary 1970-1971. She worked with choir, music and drama interest groups within the branch attaining both first and second place in 1959, second place in 1952 Exhibition and second in Music in 1960 in the state. She was involved in their handicraft craft events, fund raising and musical events and singing competitions. During the 1950s she trained Trios and Quartets in part singing for the CWA competitions in Ballarat and Melbourne. It was at this time that she developed her skill as a conductor and trainer of choirs. She later auditioned for the Victorian Choir for alto parts believing she would stand a better chance of being chosen, because of her ability to sing in natural harmony. In 1962 she participated in the Tenth Australian Country Women of the World (ACWW) Triennial Conference “Australia Presents: CWA Massed Choir” in the Melbourne Town Hall. This event was recorded by Super Sound Spotlight on 45 extended play vinyl record. The songs were Australian music and words, for example The Silver Stars are in the Sky, The Graceful Swaying Wattle and Kookaburra. Edna continued with her interest in the Victorian Choir regularly meeting at the CWA Headquarters in Toorak for rehearsals. In 1974 she took part in the Australian Choir at the fourteenth Triennial conference of the ACWW Interfaith Service held at the Perth Concert Hall on the 13th of October. Arts and Culture Edna was also in the Choir of 3KZ Carols by Candlelight at the Myer Music Bowl in 1963 and 1964. Melton Choral Society. Edna was Director and Conductor in the 1970s performing at many community events such as Carols by Candle Light, Church Services, Easter and Palm Sunday services, Mothers Union and the 1976 Community Services Week Combined Church Service. The October – November 1978 Program covered the following: songs from the Musicals, Choral and Solo with Narratives, Guest Instrumental Item, Recitation Negro Spirituals and Australian Songs. Her involvement with church choirs included the Scots Presbyterian Church Choir Easter and Christmas performances and the 1967 Centenary Service. In 1980s the Melton Uniting Church Sacred Music Performances included The Crucifixion by Stainer, The Olivet to Calvary and other church Hymns. Edna was Musical Director of the Melton Amateur Theatrical Society and worked on performances in collaboration with Mabel Rogers on script and musical interpretation. Melton and District Historical Society Annual Art and Craft Show. First held in Melton Mechanics Institute Hall in 1973, it later took place in the in the Melton Community Hall. The Art Show was also run in conjunction with other community organizations such as Rotary and Girl Guides. Community history and research Melton streetscape and society Over 20 years commencing in the 1970s, Edna undertook extensive photographing of the changing streetscape of Melton’s High Street. She anticipated the impact of change on the community during the time of Melton’s rapid transition from a small farming district to a large urban community and this led to her extensively document and photograph many of the structures and landscape features of the township that have since been lost. She also meticulously recorded much of the contemporary life of the town and has left a significant legacy of archival material. Melton State School 100 Years Celebration, October 1970 Co-author with Mabel Rogers “The First 100 Years, 1870 – 1970” Assembled a collection of School Class Photograph and identified and compiled lists of names for future school history. She also assembled a photographic display for the 125th anniversary in 1995. Melton and District Historical Society (M&DHS) Foundation Member, 1968 Held President and Secretary positions from its inception Research associated with the classification of Heritage buildings Christ Church Classification C Scots’ Presbyterian Church Classification D Set up the storage and Catalogue system in the Office at the Willows Organised society visits to Heritage sites in and beyond the Shire of Melton, including Stathtulloh, Eynesbury, Deanside, ToolernVale sites including Merrywood (now demolished) Staughton Vale, Chirnside, Point Cook, Shwerkolts Cottage. 1970 – 1983 Melton and District Historical Society Letterhead. Staughton Memorial Light from early newspaper cutting in its location before restoration to present location. Sketch by Wendy Barrie. Designing and printing pamphlets, stationery, and other sale items with Willows title. M&DHS street naming research for new housing developments (1970 – 2000). Collaborated with Mary Tolhurst to research the names of early landowners and pioneer families connected to the first settlers. Researched Aboriginal names for inclusion on lists submitted to developers. An early example is the naming of Kuranjang and the street names associated with the McPherson family. Plains of Promise (Shire of Melton history) by Joan Starr (1985). Edna assisted with Historical Society materials and contributed her own research and photographs. Contacted and organised for Hubert Opperman to launch the book. (She was also present at his last bike ride at Rochester in 1995.) Western Metropolitan Groups of Historical Societies. Member attending meetings and representing Melton, also hosted the Group at Melton The Willows Member of the Committee of Management for the restoration of the “Willows” house the establishment of The Willows Park 1982 March - Official Opening of the Willows Park- Preparation and planning for the event. Involved in the collecting of items in the furnishing of the display rooms in the Willows house. Donated items and furniture from the Myers and Daley family houses. (19th century) Machinery Shed Establishment. Involved with Jeff Robinson in the construction and collection of machinery display Other significant sites Championed and participated in the restoration and preservation significant sites in Melton, including: restoration of the Staughton Memorial Light and its return to its present site restoration of the Pykes Grave (using EW Barrie earthmoving equipment) restoration and reconstruction of Dunvegan restoration and reconstruction of Macs Cottage, the management and Caretakers residence Melton State School War Memorial Gates removed from Unitt Street entrance and relocated to the Willows Park Donated the Barrie family single furrow plough which was standing at the Court House Plaza. It removed and to Council Depot and later missing. The plaque was taken to the Willows. Jimmy Melrose (aviator) cairn restoration at crash site in Melton South Donald Mackintosh (Olympic gold medallist marksman) grave site at the Melton Cemetery (Historical items held by the Myers family collection.) Houdini first flight at Diggers Rest. Edna’s father was shearing at Diggers Rest at the time and witnessed the flight. She attended the 90 year anniversary of the event at the site in 2000. Radio and electronics Edna’s husband Bon interest in wireless communication dates in the 1920s with the building of a crystal set in the early days of public broadcasting. At the Back to Melton Celebrations in 1929, 3AR broadcast a concert from the Melton Mechanics Institute on the 20th February at 8pm featuring Footscray City Band, James Hill baritone, Vera Carew Soprano, James Foran Tenor, Marjorie Myers Piano, and James Williamson Entertainer. Accompanists: Miss Agnes Ross and Mrs James Hill. The Myers children had recordings of their piano playing made onto the aluminium records, Martha Myers’ voice can be heard introducing an item. These were made in a studio in Melbourne. Marjorie was given a upright Gramophone by Donald Mackintosh in recognition of her talent and her contribution to the cultural life of Melton. The family were then able to listen to 78rpm recordings of the famous classical recordings. The turntable was hand wound metal stylus needles had to be regularly replaced. The aluminium disk needed a bamboo needle to prevent damage to the surface. Before electricity was introduced to Melton in 1939 the Mechanics Hall relied on generators to produce electricity. Bon Barrie, being mechanically minded, built a public address system for be used a community functions at the Hall and Recreational Park. By 1939 this was up and running and used for over three decades. A large Collection of 78rpm records provided music for dances, marching, parades and any public event needing music and microphones. The early system was portable and worked on batteries. CFA Radio Communication In the 1950s with the introduction two-way HF and later VHF very high frequency radio sets. Melton Rural Fire Brigade was part of the Bacchus Marsh Group. Radio sets where located in the Melton Fire Truck, and in the house of the Barrie family at Ferris Road. This was an ideal location to observe a 360 degree view in all directions when smoke appeared on the horizon. An antenna was erected beside the house. The set OX 7 was located in the kitchen and monitored 24 hours by the family. When an electrical fire occurred at the junction of the electricity to the house there was time to radio the fire station and summons the men working in the paddocks, thus saving the house from possible destruction. With the introduction of UHF – ultra high frequency Vinten Radios the signal was clearer and static and interference lessened and radio traffic became easier to read, and reduced noise levels in the household. VL3 LY Radio Base became the Group Headquarters was established in 1967. By 1970 the Brigades were: Melton, Rockbank, Sydenham, Toolern Vale, Diggers Rest, Truganina, and Werribee. In 1974 when the family moved to First Avenue, another antenna and a small building were erected adjacent to the residence and used to house the equipment, maps. Radio traffic consisted of regular schedule times and communication with adjoining groups of brigades such as Bacchus Marsh, Mt Macedon and Little River Groups. Many of the brigade and group base radios were situated in private residences and operated primarily by fire fighters wives who held the position of Communications Officer, either registered as a brigade member or informally. Edna was never registered as an operational brigade member but operated informally as an assistant to her husband Bon. She was however a member of the Melton Fire Brigade Ladies Auxiliary from its inception in 1968, a non-operational position. Edna kept up to date with radio procedure following the 1967 handbook; preparing maps, plotting compass points and taking notes on weather forecasts from the SA Border and Western District. Daily notes were taken in anticipation of fire warnings. These log books and daily radio traffic were incidental to the regular radio schedules. Emergency turnouts noted, burning off times and predicted location of smoke. In the summer fire season all TBF (total fire ban days were recorded.) In times of emergency the Barrie family assisted Bon the base radio operator to plot the position and location of fire trucks and to help clarify garbled radio traffic, keep notes and make telephone calls. These log books are held in the EE and EW Family Archive. Melton Uniting Church Edna founded the Church Opportunity with Maisie Robinson in 1975 in the Melton South Methodist Church building. Methodist and Presbyterian Churches of Melton had combined severing their long held connection with Bacchus Marsh. A Manse had been recently built for the Melton Minister. At a Parish Committee meeting at the Melton South Church it was suggested to use the building as an Opportunity Shop. It opened in July 1975, and it raised $1,600 contribution to the church budget in 1976. In 1977 The Uniting Church in Australia was formed and the Melton South Uniting Church Opportunity shop continued to go from strength to strength expanding the buildings providing the welfare needs of the community. Archive Set up by Edna Catalogued items dating from 1857 Minute Book and set ongoing system and storage of items of heritage. Melton Un Awards and recognition of service to the Melton community Rotary Award for Community Service, 1980 Victoria 150th Anniversary Celebrations contributions, 1985 Life Membership of the Melton and District Historical Society (M&DHS), 1989 Extra-Ordinary Contribution for years of service to M&DHS, 1992 Long Service for Exceptional Service MD&HS, 1993 Royal Historical Society of Victoria Award of Merit, 1997 Shire of Melton Certificate of Appreciation for continued support and dedication as a member of MD&HS to the preservation of Melton’s History, 1998 Centenary of Federation Peoplescape (Canberra) Melton Shire nomination, 2001 Uniting Church Melton Life Membership of the Opportunity Shop Uniting Church in Australia Commission for Mission for 30 years of hard work and dedications to the Uniting Church, 2007 Uniting Church Adult Fellowship Certificate appreciation in recognition of valuable support through the “Sammy” Stamp Fund Neighbourhood Watch 5 year award Photographs of Edna at different ageslocal identities