The Restoration of The Bendigo Gasworks Boiler House Complex, A Community Jobs Project March 2002 - June 2002. Final Report. Researched, compiled and written by: Fiona Gust and Simone (Mona) Krause. Front cover is purple, back cover is black and some inside pages are red or yellow. Topics in the book are: History of the Gasworks, How a Gasworks Works, Heritage Requirements, The CJP Crew, Crew Profiles, Initial Condition of the Boiler House Complex, O, H & S, Work Begins - Asbestos Removal, Clean-up, Iron Removal and Glazing. Artifact Cataloguing, where artifacts and where they were found were cataloged. On Going Discoveries. Exhauster ad Tank Room Ceilings, Pipes, Oil Spray Tower, Skillion over the Amenities Block, Posts, Beams along the Exhauster Room Wall-NE side, Beams on the SW side of the gable .. The join between the skillion and gable roof, Donuts on the Exhauster Room Wall - NE side, Trusses, Gutters and down pipes, Paint and Whitewash, Brickwork, Iron Fittings, Internal Fixtures, Generator Room/Compressor Room, Floors and Conclusion. The Captains Last Words by Peter Roberts. Acknowledgements. The coloured pages in the back are Edition One - 19.4.2002, Edition Two and Edition 3 of Combustible News which gives a progressive account of the work.buildings, gas company, the bendigo gasworks, the restoration of the bendigo gasworks boiler house complex, fiona gust, simone (mona) krause, city of melbourne gas and coke company, the bendigo mercury, the gas and fuel corporation, central deborah, community jobs project, peter roberts, chrysalis constructions, cvgt industrial training center, rod mclaughlin, allan fox, david gilroy, glen slater, aaron ott, ron whitford, daniel keogh, paul atkins, nick pearson, leigh williams, des leahy, anthony jennings, heritage victoria, the bendigo shire, central deborah, david bennear, david wright, deborah simm, community jobs unit, james thompson, mac booth, mine, tramways, discovery centre, mandy cooper, delwyn douglass, cindy tassie, helen yorston, brenda stanley, greg o'connell, kym smith, darren hutchesson, julie cain, john bullen, joe slaviero, mario joh;ns, norm harris, paul green, len cutting, jim morrissy, melissa tuddenham, fiona beckwith, leo trainor, gary anquetil, helen lynch, abbotts supply, action auction, garry floyd, bendigo trailers and hardware - matt, ron & jack, brennans - butch & robbie, bunnings - evan, brett crapper, hip pocket, jason kiel, country victorian scaffolding, paint right bendigo, alan gladman, deborah simms, graeme jennings, hugh ward, leigh williams, paul eccles, peter sporn, barb & mal krause, peter & shirley turner, bendigo copy centre

Black and white photograph of Ballarat trams 35 and 34 standing alongside each other at the Grey St loop on the Sebastopol line with John Fitzsimmons holding some of the last tram mail from Sebastopol to Ballarat on 18/9/1971. Photo by Keith Kings. See item 2942 for a sample of the mail.Yields information about the Last Tram Mail to be carried in Ballarat.Black and white photograph with photographers notes on rear.See image 2trams, closure, last tram mail, tmsv, post office, last tram

The Australis retains a significant place in Australian immigration history as the last ship to carry government assisted immigrants to Australian shores in 1977. She had the largest passenger capacity of any post World War II immigrant ship to regularly visit Australia and many passengers fondly remember her grandeur and remnants of Art Deco style.Mrs B SmythA framed oil painting of the migrant ship SS AustralisAustralisss australis, migrant ships

Black & White photograph of Bendigo No. 18, travelling along Pall Mall with Post Office in background and motor cars in foreground, with white marker on front of tram, with 'Depot' showing. No ads in advertising racks on top of tram. On Kodak paper. On 16/4/1972. Reimaged 17/7/2019 both front and back.'2nd last tram back from Eaglehawk / Note markers as used in Bendigo' on rear of photographtrams, tramways, bendigo, pall mall, post office , tram 18

The Victorian Baseball League was established in 1889 with the following clubs - MCC, Metropolitan, Richmond, Richmond Cricketers, Kew, Geelong, Fitzroy, The Age, Carlton, Coburg. MCC defeated Metropolitan for the first Premiership. By 1897 Kew had built up to six teams, but went into recess about the turn of the century. They reformed c.1906 and did not resume until 1926 under Captain/Coach Frank Littlefield. I think he was ex Hawthorn Baseball and/or Cricket club(s). They won the D Grade Premiership of 1926 and/or 1927 playing out of Victoria Park at 12 noon, and as a curtain raiser to either Kew or Kew District or East Kew Football Club and after World War 2, North Kew which had now joined Kew as a tenant. Team members were H.L. Barclay (ex Richmond), A. Brierley (ex Collingwood), H. Ely (ex Essendon), Frank Littlefield, J. Marshall and C. Robinson (ex Hawthorn-East Melbourne Cricket Club). In 1926, the KBC played against Caulfield, Fairfield, Fitzroy, Ivanhoe, Northcote, Prahran, University, Williamstown, YMCA. In 1927, Preston replaced Fairfield. A third team was formed post WW2 which played at Willsmere Park. The Reserves followed to Willsmere Park in 1963 and the Seniors in c.1970. Kew Council moved the club to a sub-standard Stradbroke Park No 2 Oval for the 1976 season and this proved to be the last for the club. Melbourne Baseball Club moved in for two seasons, but also moved when improvements to No 2 Oval were not made. They then moved to Macleay Park in a share arrangement with North Balwyn BC. Research: Ian Job, 2015A premiership cap awarded to Christopher Robinson of the Kew Baseball Club in 1927.Navy blue peaked baseball cap, embroidered in gold thread with K B.C. Premiers 1927sports uniforms, caps, premiership caps, baseball,

The Victorian Baseball League was established in 1889 with the following clubs - MCC, Metropolitan, Richmond, Richmond Cricketers, Kew, Geelong, Fitzroy, The Age, Carlton, Coburg. MCC defeated Metropolitan for the first Premiership. By 1897 Kew had built up to six teams, but went into recess about the turn of the century. They reformed c.1906 and did not resume until 1926 under Captain/Coach Frank Littlefield. I think he was ex Hawthorn Baseball and/or Cricket club(s). They won the D Grade Premiership of 1926 and/or 1927 playing out of Victoria Park at 12 noon, and as a curtain raiser to either Kew or Kew District or East Kew Football Club and after World War 2, North Kew which had now joined Kew as a tenant. Team members were H.L. Barclay (ex Richmond), A. Brierley (ex Collingwood), H. Ely (ex Essendon), Frank Littlefield, J. Marshall and C. Robinson (ex Hawthorn-East Melb Cricket Club). In 1926, the KBC played against Caulfield, Fairfield, Fitzroy, Ivanhoe, Northcote, Prahran, University, Williamstown, YMCA. In 1927, Preston replaced Fairfield. A third team was formed post WW2 which played at Willsmere Park. The Reserves followed to Willsmere Park in 1963 and the Seniors in c.1970. Kew Council moved the club to a sub-standard Stradbroke Park No 2 Oval for the 1976 season and this proved to be the last for the club. Melbourne Baseball Club moved in for two seasons, but also moved when improvements to No 2 Oval were not made. They then moved to Macleay Park in a share arrangement with North Balwyn BC. Research: Ian JobTeam photo of the Kew Baseball Club players and club officials and or supporters. The grandfather of the donor, Christopher Robinson has been identified as sitting in the middle row, 2nd from left.kew baseball club, victoria park

The Victorian Baseball League was established in 1889 with the following clubs - MCC, Metropolitan, Richmond, Richmond Cricketers, Kew, Geelong, Fitzroy, The Age, Carlton, Coburg. MCC defeated Metropolitan for the first Premiership. By 1897 Kew had built up to six teams, but went into recess about the turn of the century. They reformed c.1906 and did not resume until 1926 under Captain/Coach Frank Littlefield. I think he was ex Hawthorn Baseball and/or Cricket club(s). They won the D Grade Premiership of 1926 and/or 1927 playing out of Victoria Park at 12 noon, and as a curtain raiser to either Kew or Kew District or East Kew Football Club and after World War 2, North Kew which had now joined Kew as a tenant. Team members were H.L. Barclay (ex Richmond), A. Brierley (ex Collingwood), H. Ely (ex Essendon), Frank Littlefield, J. Marshall and C. Robinson (ex Hawthorn-East Melb Cricket Club). In 1926, the KBC played against Caulfield, Fairfield, Fitzroy, Ivanhoe, Northcote, Prahran, University, Williamstown, YMCA. In 1927, Preston replaced Fairfield. A third team was formed post WW2 which played at Willsmere Park. The Reserves followed to Willsmere Park in 1963 and the Seniors in c.1970. Kew Council moved the club to a sub-standard Stradbroke Park No 2 Oval for the 1976 season and this proved to be the last for the club. Melbourne Baseball Club moved in for two seasons, but also moved when improvements to No 2 Oval were not made. They then moved to Macleay Park in a share arrangement with North Balwyn BC. Research: Ian JobTeam photo of the Kew Baseball Club players and club officials and or supporters. The grandfather of the donor, Christopher Robinson has been identified as sitting in the back row, 2nd from left.kew baseball club, victoria park, christopher robinson

Escort for Major General Sir Winston Dugan on his arrival in Melbourne to take up the post of Governor of Victoria. The Escort comprised Lieutenant HG Fyffe, Sergeant C Thorburn, Trumpeter G Pyle and 12 troopers all drawn from the Tocumwal Troop of the 20th Light Horse Regiment. Historical photograph of Vice Regal escort drawn from Light Horse Regiment. It is well provenanced, and in good condition. Possibly the last mounted escort in Victoria drawn from serving military.Black and white photograph of group of light horsemen in single rank with lances and pennants.Labelled "Vice Regal Escort at Government House Melbourne 17/7/1939"20th light horse regiment, governor of victoria, fyffe h g, pyle g, thorburn c, dugan winston sir

Escort for Major General Sir Winston Dugan on his arrival at Melbourne 17 July 1939, to take up the post of Governor of Victoria. Escort comprised Lieutenant HG Fyffe, Sergeant C Thorburn, Trumpeter G Pyle and 12 troopers drawn from the Tocumwal Troop 20th Light Horse Regiment.Historical photograph of Vice Regal escort drawn from a Light Horse Regiment. It is well provenanced and in good condition. It is possibly the last mounted escort in Victoria drawn from serving military.Black and white photograph of three men on foot, two with plumed hats, one in bearskin, speaking with mounted officer in front of mounted escort armed with lances.governor of victoria, dugan winston sir, fyffe h g, thorburn c, pyle g

Escort for Major General Sir Winston Dugan on his arrival in Melbourne on 17 July 1939 to take up the post of Governor of Victoria. The escort comprised Lieutenant HG Fyffe, Sergeant C Thorburn, Trumpeter G Pyle and 12 troopers drawn from the Tocumwal Troop of the 20th Light Horse Regiment.Historical photograph of Vice Regal escort drawn from a Light Horse Regiment. Well provenanced and possibly the last mounted escort in Victoria drawn from serving military.Black and white photograph of mounted troops armed with lances in city street with open car carrying men in feathered hats, one wearing bearskin.dugan winston sir, fyffe h g, thorburn c, pyle g, governor of victoria

The 8/13th Victorian Mounted Rifles enjoyed a long friendship with members of the 13th Australian Light Horse Regiment (AIF) Association, hosting an annual visit. This pewter was presented to the 13th Light Horse President on such a visit and was returned to the 8/13th in 1980 when the 13th ALH Association closed.Rare example of the close affiliation between a regiment of World War 1 (1914-1918) and its descendent regiment in the post World War 2 (1939-1945) era.Silver plated mug with handle and inscribed on both sides.On one side "13th Australian Light Horse Regiment A & C Squadron, 8/13th Victorian Mounted Rifles dated 9th May 1959" and on the other side "This cup is to be held by the current President of 13th Light Horse ( AIF ) Association. It is to be returned by the last surviving President to the 8/13th Victorian Mounted Rifles"13th, light horse, vmr

The Post War Planning Report was prepared by Leslie M. Perrott & Partners: (City Planning Consultants) and according to the report, it was submitted to the Council of the Municipality of Caulfield through its Special Committee on Post War Planning. The report has no evident date however the introduction text suggests that it was prepared before the end of World War II. The report is the only known extant copy and therefore considered rare. Bound report with grey cover titled: "Report to the Post War Planning Committee Caulfield City Council". Interior pages include x83 pages typed text printed on blue print paper; x3 pages copies of black and white photographs; 10 blueprint plans. 86 pages consistent in size with book cover, 10 x blueprint plans varying dimensions, folded and bound within the report. Printed on white sticker on spine of book "LH 994. 51" and on first page inside "CAULFIELD LIBRARY SERVICE REFERENCE BOOK" and on the verso of this page, another stamp with CAULFIELD LIBRARY SERVICE and LH REF 12/7 hand written in black ink and a 14 digit reference number below this. On the back of the last plan in the book, there is a blue stamp with "REFERENCE BOOK TO BE USED IN THE LIBRARY ONLY". Below this is a black and white barcode with a black line through it and a round, blue sticker beside it.

This was probably part of a real estate promotion for the sale of the Riversdale Heights Estate. This was subdivided by Messrs. Duncan and Weller. Of the allotments offered, 30 were sold and realised £4600. Date of this sale was c December 1923. This suggests that the date This are was one of the last pieces of former rural land to be sub-divided for housing in Surrey Hills.The land between it and South Surrey Park was sub-divided post WW1, hence the naming of the streets after sites of WW1 battles.A black and white reproduction of an aerial photo of the area near the corner of Warragul and Riversdale Roads looking west towards the city. Some features have been identified by name including the Riversdale Heights Estate, which was being sub-divided. North and South Courts are shown. Other roads (unmarked) in the foreground are Graham Street, Allie Street, Thistle Street, Lille Street, Amiens Street, and Marne Street. Beyond these is the area marked 'PARK' (South Surrey Park), which is devoid of vegetation. Areas of Camberwell and Canterbury are also shown. The area covered extends to beyond St Dominic's Church. The original is mounted on a cream deckle-edged paper.Beneath the original on the mount: "SOUTH SURREY HILLS LOOKING WEST c. 1936" [The reference to the sale in the Box Hill Reporter of December 1923 found on Trove suggests that this date is not accurate.] Rear top LH corner of original in Jocelyn Hall's handwriting: "For Centre / from Mr James Long"riversdale heights estate, riversdale road, allie street, south surrey park, lille street, thistle street, amiens street, marne street, south court, north court, duncan and weller, real estate sales, graham street, st dominics church, highfield park, canterbury primary school, aerial photo

Commemorative Stamp"Australian Legends". The Last Anzacs - depicting Alec Cambell, Walter Parker and Roy Longmore with the 1914-15 Star. Gutter strip - 10 x 45c stamps in pairs with Anzacs and war scenes in the gutter.

Commemorative Stamp - First Day Cover envelope: the Last AnzacsComprising 4 x 45c stamps - featuring Walter Parker, Roy Longmore and Alec Campbell and the 1914-15 star

Australian Design Set, The Last Anzacs - featuring Walter Parker, Roy Longmore, Alec Campbell and the 1914-15 Star awarded to all men who fought in campaigns in 1914 and 1915.

set of four maxi postcardsCard 1 -Troops leaving Port Melbourne. Stamp features Walter Parker. Card 2 - Part of 11th Btn, 3rd Brigade at Mena. Stamp features Roy Longmore. Card 3 - Wading ashore 25th April, 1915. Stamp features Alec Campbell. Card 4 - Anzac Cove 1915. Stamp features the 1914-15 Star.

Commemorative stamps "Australian Legends" - The Last Anzacs - depicting Alec Campbell, Walter Parker and Roy Longmore with the 194-15 Start. Set of 10 x 45 cent stamps

When the Commonwealth Post and Telegraph Act was passed in June 1902, and a national Postmaster General's Department (the PMG) was established the responsibility for the nation's mail and telephone services fell on local Post Offices. The Bendigo Post Office, built in 1887 and is situated on Pall Mall, it was the central distribution centre for receiving and delivering communication and postal services until 1997 and is now the Bendigo Visitor Centre. The Dead Letter Office, aka Mail Distribution Centre's job is to reunite the mail with their owners and to protect the integrity and confidentiality of the mail. This item is part of the postal collection donated by the Rankins family in memory of the last postal manager at the Bendigo Post Office, Ted Rankins.Printed brown paper which folds into an envelope.O.H.M.S / Postmaster - General's Department / P.M. 29. / Dead Letter Mail / Date Stamp / Office of Despatch / to the / Dead Letter Office / Enclosed are Articlested rankins collection, bendigo post office, bendigo tourism, city of greater bendigo tourism, post office collection

When the Commonwealth Post and Telegraph Act was passed in June 1902, and a national Postmaster General's Department (the PMG) was established the responsibility the nation's mail and telephone services fell on local Post Offices. The Bendigo Post Office was designed by Public Works architect George W Watson and constructed between 1883 and 1887. The two story brick structure with basement has unpainted rendered facades and a 43m high clock tower complete with 6 bell carillon. The facades are elaborately decorated with Corinthian pilasters, balustrading, lions' heads and the state mansard roof with cast iron ridging and finials. (VHR #4739). Situated on Pall Mall it has always been called the Bendigo Post Office even though it was not until 1891 that the name Bendigo was given to the town. The Bendigo Post Office housed much more than just postal services and the building contained many early government departments and services needed for a growing district. The building celebrated its centenary on the 30th September 1987 to much fan fare with Ted Rankins, the then Postal Manager planning many of the week long events including tours of the post office, a grand parade with cake and staff in period costume, a ball at the Shamrock and a barbeque in Rosalind Park. The Post Office ceased providing postal services in 1997 after the privitisation Australia Post and Telstra but continues to play a central role for the community, providing important services to visitors and locals alike. Currently it is occupied by Bendigo Tourism and includes two exhibition spaces including the Living Arts Space and Djaa Djuwima a dedicated and permanent First Nations Gallery. Activities at the Post Office are supported by City of Greater Bendigo staff and a dedicated group of volunteers. These items are part of the postal collection donated by the Rankins family in memory of the last postal manager at the Bendigo Post Office, Ted Rankins. 0364.1: Single sided printed 'Order of Proceedings' flyer; Outlines the running of events for the celebrations on Wednesday 30 September, 1987 at the Post Office with the centenary logo centre top in crimson ink. 0364.2: Single sided, four-colour printed, DL size invitation for celebrations marking the centenary of the Post Office on Wednesday 30 September, 1987. 0364.3,.4,.5,.6,.7: Printed cake bag with centenary logo and image of Bendigo Post Office printed on front in crimson ink. 0364.8,.9,.10,.11: Square note paper with centenary logo and border printed in crimson ink. 0364.12 Envelope: Australia Post envelope with Bendigo 100th anniversary images. Date stamped and addressed to Mr Edmondston Postmaster, Elmore. bendigo post office, bendigo tourism, city of greater bendigo tourism, post office collection, ted rankins collection, city of greater bendigo volunteers

This photograph is taken in the home of the Mother and babe and shows a RDNS Sister who is visiting to give the mother and babe Post-natal care. Royal District Nursing Service (RDNS) had a Domiciliary Infant and Maternal Care (DIMC) service which gave Post-natal care to new born mothers and babes in their homes following their early discharge from hospital, or if required for other reasons. In August 1893 Melbourne District Nursing Society (MDNS), commenced a Midwifery Service with Nurse Fowler, who was trained in General nursing and Midwifery nursing, being the first Midwife employed. Mothers were assessed for suitability of a home birth or if they required delivery at the Women’s Hospital. The Midwife worked in conjunction with the Doctors at the Women’s Hospital and if a complication arose before or after birth the patient was transferred to their care. Following birth, the Midwife gave Post-Natal care to both the mother and babe commencing with visits twice a day. In 1898 the service ceased due to lack of funds but recommenced in 1906, and in the August 1925 Annual Report the number of MDNS home births was recorded at 478. MDNS built the After-Care Home and a pioneering Anti-Natal Clinic was opened in 1930. The last Ante-Natal clinic was held there in December 1951 and the MDNS Midwifery service ceased in February 1952. In 1964 MDNS commenced a Post-Natal service with General and Midwifery trained MDNS Sisters working from a room on the ground floor at the Footscray Hospital Nurses quarters, and visiting early discharged Footscray Hospital maternity cases at home. Later, as Royal District Nursing Service (RDNS), this service was extended and renamed as Domiciliary Infant and Maternal Care, (DIMC) service operating from most Centres and visiting early discharged, often 24 hours after birth, maternity cases from hospitals to give Post-natal care to the mother and babe. Many of the RDNS Sisters who worked in DIMC also had their Infant Welfare Certificate, though Midwifery trained nurses also visited. Black and white photograph showing, to the left, a Royal District Nursing (RDNS) Domiciliary Postnatal Sister, with long hair drawn up, and wearing a white gown. She is attending to a new born baby in her wicker bassinet at the baby's home. The Sister is smiling and has her left hand by the shoulder of the wrapped babe, and her right hand is resting lower on the baby. The baby's mother, who has curly short dark hair, is dressed in a floral blouse and dark cardigan. She is standing to the right of the Sister and behind the bassinet, and is looking down at her babe and smiling. Her left hand is resting on the bassinet. The baby has dark hair and has her hand partly covering her mouth. Part of a picture is seen on the wall behind the mother.rdns, royal district nursing service, rdns domiciliary post natal service, rdns domiciary infant and maternal care, rdns dimc

This photograph depicts a Royal District Nursing Service (RDNS) Sister (Sr.) visiting Mrs. Hodginson and babe in their home. Sr. Wan is weighing baby Tamara as part of the Post-Natal care she is giving. A nurse who is doing her Hospital training is visiting with the Sister and observing. RDNS had a Domiciliary Infant and Maternal Care, (DIMC) service operating from most Centres which visited early discharged, often 24 hours after birth, maternity cases from hospitals to give Post-natal care to the mother and babe. Sr. Wan is wearing her RDNS summer uniform of a short sleeve white blouse under a royal blue V neck tunic style frock and a dark blue cardigan. In August 1893 Melbourne District Nursing Society (MDNS), commenced a Midwifery Service with Nurse Fowler, who was trained in a hospital in General nursing and Midwifery nursing, being the first Midwife employed. Mothers were assessed for suitability of a home birth or if they required delivery at the Women’s Hospital. The Midwife worked in conjunction with the Doctors at the Women’s Hospital and if a complication arose before or after birth the patient was transferred to their care. Following birth, the Midwife gave Post-Natal care to both the mother and babe commencing with visits twice a day. In 1898 the service ceased due to lack of funds but recommenced in 1906, and in the August 1925 Annual Report the number of MDNS home births was recorded at 478. MDNS built the After-Care Home and a pioneering Anti-Natal Clinic was opened in 1930. The last Ante-Natal clinic was held there in December 1951 and the MDNS Midwifery service ceased in February 1952. In 1964 MDNS commenced a Post-Natal service with General and Midwifery trained MDNS Sisters working from a room on the ground floor at the Footscray Hospital Nurses quarters, and visiting early discharged Footscray Hospital maternity cases at home. Later, as Royal District Nursing Service (RDNS), this service was extended and renamed as Domiciliary Infant and Maternal Care, (DIMC) service operating from most Centres and visiting early discharged, often 24 hours after birth, maternity cases from hospitals to give Post-natal care to the mother and babe. Many of the RDNS Sisters who worked in DIMC also had their Infant Welfare Certificate, though Midwifery trained nurses also visited. On the right of the black and white photograph is Royal District Nursing Service (RDNS) DIMC Sister J. Wan, who has short dark curly hair and is wearing a white gown over her uniform, with the white collar and sleeves of her dark cardigan seen. She is laughing as she holds the top ring of hand held baby scales in her right hand; the bottom of the scale has a metal hook which has a sling attached to it with four cotton 'ropes'. Baby Tamara is supported in the sling which is just resting on a sheep skin and bunny rug covered metal framed change table. Sr. Wan has her left hand on the sling. To the left of the photograph is Tamara's smiling mother, Mrs. Lynda Hodginson, and in the centre of the photograph is observer Nurse Sheehan. Mrs. Hodginson is wearing a striped dress with a V neck, and has dark shoulder length hair. Nurse Sheehan has short dark hair and is wearing a white uniform and dark cardigan. A nursing watch is attached to the right hand side of her uniform. Part of a landscape picture can be seen on the wall behind her. A small white fluffy rabbit sits on the left hand side of the change table. Baby Tamara has sparse dark hair and is sucking on a dummy.Photographer's stampmdns, melbourne district nursing society, melbourne district nursing service, royal district nursing service, rdns, mdns midwifery, rdns domiciliary postnatal service, dimc, tamara hodginson, nurse sheehan, sister j. wan, mrs lynda hodginson

This photograph depicts Post-Natal care being given by a Royal District Nursing Service (RDNS), Sister who is working in the RDNS Domiciliary Infant and Maternal Care (DIMC) section of the Service. The photograph is taken in the home of the mother and baby and the Sister is in the process of putting the baby onto the Baby scales to ascertain the babe's weight. Sisters employed in the DIMC section of RDNS gave Post-natal care to both the mother and her newly born babe when they were discharged early from hospital. This photograph was taken in the year following Melbourne District Nursing Service (MDNS) being granted Royal patronage in 1966 and becoming Royal District Nursing Service. The Sister is wearing the the same grey uniform frock used by MDNS but the badge on her peaked cap has changed from a red Maltese cross to a metal round silver badge with a royal blue circle around the edge with the words 'Royal District Nursing Service' in white capital letters running inside the blue circle.The centre of the badge is divided into three sections; a silver rising sun top and bottom, and a thick royal blue horizontal central strip with 'RDNS' written in large white capital letters. This uniform continued to be worn until 1971 when it changed colour and style. In August 1893 Melbourne District Nursing Society (MDNS), commenced a Midwifery Service with Nurse Fowler, who trained in a Hospital and was qualified in General nursing and Midwifery nursing, being the first Midwife employed. Mothers were assessed for suitability of a home birth, or if they required delivery at the Women’s Hospital. The Midwife worked in conjunction with the Doctors at the Women’s Hospital and if a complication arose the patient was transferred to their care. Following birth they gave Post-Natal care to both the mother and babe. In 1898 the service ceased due to lack of funds but recommenced in 1906, and in the August 1925 Annual Report the number of MDNS home births was recorded at 478. MDNS built the After-Care Home and an Anti-Natal Clinic was opened in 1930. The last Ante-Natal clinic was held there in December 1951 and the MDNS Midwifery service ceased in February 1952. In 1964 MDNS commenced a Post-Natal service with General and Midwifery trained MDNS Sisters working from a room at Footscray Hospital, and visiting early discharged Footscray Hospital maternity cases at home. Now as Royal District Nursing Service (RDNS), this service was extended to a Domiciliary Infant and Maternal Care, (DIMC) service operating from most Centres and visiting early discharged, often 24 hours after birth, maternity cases from hospitals to give post-natal care to the mother and babe. Many Sisters working in this area had a Certificate in Infant Welfare as well as their General and Midwifery Certificates.In the right rear of this black and white photograph is a Royal District Nursing Service, (RDNS), Sister who is wearing a white gown over her uniform, and wearing her grey peaked hat with the RDNS badge visible, looking down at a baby she is about to weigh. The baby has sparse dark hair, is wearing a white singlet and is crying. The Baby scales, which are sitting on a table in front of the Sister, are white with a rectangular base and curved sided tray on the top. The Sister is standing behind the scales, and is supporting the babe's body with her right hand and holding baby's legs with her left hand as she lowers babe fully onto the scales. On the left of the photograph, the mother, who has long dark hair with a hair scarf holding it back, and is wearing a striped frock, is siting on a chair with her arms crossed at her waist, and is smiling at her babe as she observes proceedings.. Photographers Stampmdns, melbourne district nursing society, melbourne district nursing service, rdns, royal district nursing service, rdns domiciliary postnatal service, dimc

In 1964 Melbourne District Nursing Service (MDNS) commenced a Domiciliary Postnatal Service, later called Domiciliary Infant and Maternal.Care (DIMC), when Royal patronage was granted in 1966 (RDNS). The Sisters gave Post-natal care to the mother and babes and visited for support and advice as long as needed. The central RDNS badges on the Sisters hats is made of metal and has 'Royal District Nursing Service' written in the outside royal blue circle. The inner area is divided in three parts, the top and bottom sections are a silver rising sun and the central royal blue horizontal band has the letters 'RDNS' written white capital letters.In August 1893 Melbourne District Nursing Society (MDNS), commenced a Midwifery Service with Nurse Fowler, who was Hospital trained in General nursing and Midwifery nursing, being the first Midwife employed. Mothers were assessed for suitability of a home birth, or if they required delivery at the Women’s Hospital. The Midwife worked in conjunction with the Doctors at the Women’s Hospital and if a complication arose the patient was transferred to their care. Following birth they gave Post-Natal care to both the mother and babe. In 1898 the service ceased due to lack of funds but recommenced in 1906, and in the August 1925 Annual Report the number of MDNS home births was recorded at 478. MDNS built the After-Care Home and an Anti-Natal Clinic was opened in 1930. The last Ante-Natal clinic was held there in December 1951 and the MDNS Midwifery service ceased in February 1952. In 1964 MDNS commenced a Post-Natal service with General and Midwifery trained MDNS Sisters working from a room at Footscray Hospital, and visiting early discharged Footscray Hospital maternity cases at home. Later, as Royal District Nursing Service (RDNS), this service was extended to a Domiciliary Infant and Maternal Care (DIMC), service operating from most Centres and visiting early discharged, often 24 hours after birth, maternity cases from hospitals to give post-natal care to the mother and babe. Many of the RDNS Sisters who did DIMC had their Triple Certificate (Infant Welfare), though Midwifery trained nurses also visited. Black and white photograph showing two Royal District Nursing Service, (RDNS), Postnatal Service Sisters visiting a mother and her triplets in their home. Both Sisters and the mother are smiling and sitting on a dark coloured couch with each holding one of the babes who are wrapped in light coloured bunny rugs. The Sister on the left is wearing a white gown, with the grey peaks of her uniform showing; her nursing badge is attached to the right hand peak of her uniform. She is wearing her grey peaked hat, with central attached RDNS badge, over her short dark curled hair. To her right is the mother, who has short straight dark hair, and is wearing a white blouse and dark tartan skirt. On the far right is Sister Barbara Weisart, wearing a white gown; with the grey peaks of her uniform showing, and wearing her grey peaked hat with central RDNS badge over her short dark straight hair. A set of white baby scales are seen to her rightPhotographers Stamp. Quote No. GE 13mdns, melbourne district nursing society, melbourne district nursing service, royal district nursing service, rdns, rdns domiciliary postnatal service, dimc, sister barbara weisart

The RDNS Sister is giving Post Natal care to the Mother and babe. She is wearing her RDNS summer uniform which is a white short sleeve blouse under a royal blue V necked tunic dress with the RDNS insignia emblazoned on the upper left.In August 1893 Melbourne District Nursing Society (MDNS), commenced a Midwifery Service with Nurse Fowler, who was trained in General nursing and Midwifery nursing, being the first Midwife employed. Mothers were assessed for suitability of a home birth or if they required delivery at the Women’s Hospital. The Midwife worked in conjunction with the Doctors at the Women’s Hospital and if a complication arose the patient was transferred to their care. Following birth they gave Post-Natal care to both the mother and babe. In 1898 the service ceased due to lack of funds but recommenced in 1906, and in the August 1925 Annual Report the number of MDNS home births was recorded at 478. MDNS built the After-Care Home and an Anti-Natal Clinic was opened in 1930. The last Ante-Natal clinic was held there in December 1951 and the MDNS Midwifery service ceased in February 1952. In 1964 MDNS commenced a Post-Natal Service with general and midwifery trained MDNS nurses working from a room at Footscray Hospital, and visiting early discharged Footscray Hospital maternity cases at home. Now as Royal District Nursing Service (RDNS), this service was extended to a Domiciliary Infant and Maternal Care, (DIMC) service operating from most Centres and visiting early discharged, often 24 hours after birth, maternity cases from hospitals to give post-natal care to the mother and babe.Black and white photograph of a Royal District Nursing Service (RDNS), Sister visiting a family in their home. The family are sitting on a dark coloured couch. From left to right:- The father, who has short dark hair and is wearing a light coloured patterned shirt and dark pants, is looking at his young blond haired daughter who is sitting on his right knee. She is wearing a light coloured top and darker coloured bib and brace pants. The mother, who has long dark hair and wears glasses,.is next to him and is smiling and looking towards the RDNS Sister. She is wearing a long sleeve buttoned grey top and darker coloured slacks, and is holding her babe in her lap with both hands supporting the baby's head. The babe has sparse dark hair and is wrapped in a white bunny rug. Next is a young girl, who has short dark hair and is wearing a light coloured top, darker coloured slacks and has her hands on the top of her left striped sock. Seated on the far right is the RDNS Sister, who has short straight dark hair, and has her face turned towards the child and mother. She is wearing her RDNS uniform of a short sleeve white blouse under a dark V neck tunic style dress which has the RDNS insignia on its upper left. The Sister has a pen attached to the V neck of the tunic and is holding a note book in her hands. She has a watch with a dark band attached to her left wrist. In the background part of a wooden and glass door can be seen and a patterned wallpapered adorns the wall behind the couch.Photographer stamp. Quote No EA 28melbourne district nursing society, mdns, royal district nursing service, rdns, dimc, mdns midwifery, rdns domiciliary infant and maternal care

General and Midwifery trained RDNS Sister Kaye Pilmore is supervising a Mother feeding her new born infant in their home. Sister Pilmore is wearing her RDNS summer uniform, which was a royal blue V neck tunic style dress, with the RDNS badge emblazoned on the upper left, worn over a short sleeve white blouse. In August 1893 Melbourne District Nursing Society (MDNS), commenced a Midwifery Service with Nurse Fowler, who was trained in General nursing and Midwifery nursing, being the first Midwife employed. Mothers were assessed for suitability of a home birth or if they required delivery at the Women’s Hospital. The Midwife worked in conjunction with the Doctors at the Women’s Hospital and if a complication arose before or after birth the patient was transferred to their care. Following birth, the Midwife gave Post-Natal care to both the mother and babe commencing with visits twice a days. In 1898 the service ceased due to lack of funds but recommenced in 1906, and in the August 1925 Annual Report the number of MDNS home births was recorded at 478. MDNS built the After-Care Home and an Anti-Natal Clinic was opened in 1930. The last Ante-Natal clinic was held there in December 1951 and the MDNS Midwifery service ceased in February 1952. In 1964 MDNS commenced a Post-Natal service with general and midwifery trained MDNS Sisters working from a room on the ground floor in the Footscray Hospital Nurses quarters, and visiting early discharged Footscray Hospital maternity cases at home. Later, as Royal District Nursing Service (RDNS), this service was extended and renamed as the Domiciliary Infant and Maternal Care, (DIMC) service operating from most Centres and visiting early discharged, often 24 hours after birth, maternity cases from hospitals to give Post-natal care to the mother and babe. Many of the RDNS Sisters who worked in the DIMC section also had their Triple Certificate in Infant Welfare, though double certificate Midwifery trained nurses also made DIMC visits. Black and white photograph showing a Royal District Nursing Service (RDNS), Sister sitting to the left of a mother who is holding her babe whilst she feeds her with a bottle. The Sister has short straight dark hair and is wearing her RDNS uniform of a dark V neck tunic style dress, with the RDNS badge emblazoned on the upper left, over a short sleeve white blouse. She is turned towards the babe and mother and is holding a sheet of white paper in her right hand and her left hand is supporting the end of the glass feeding bottle. The mother, who has long dark hair and is wearing glasses, and a grey long sleeve top and darker coloured slacks, has her baby across her knees with her left arm bent at the elbow and her arm and hand supporting her baby's head and neck. She is holding the feeding bottle with her right hand and the teat of the bottle is in the baby's mouth. The babe has sparse dark hair and is wrapped in a white bunny rug. They are sitting on a dark coloured couch with check cushions on the seat. A small low table is to the right of the couch against the wall. Patterned wallpaper can be seen on the wall behind the couch and table.Photographer stamp.Quote No. EA 35melbourne district nursing society, mdns, royal district nursing service, rdns, mdns midwifery, dimc, mdns post-natal care, rdns dimc, sister kaye pilmore

This photograph shows an RDNS Sister doing Liaison work at a Hospital. She will pass the information given about the babe to the RDNS Domiciliary Infant and Maternal Care (DIMC) Sister who will be visiting the baby and her family in their home. Sr. Schofield is wearing the RDNS winter uniform of a blue/grey skivvie under a V neck tunic style frock made of herringbone winter material.Liaison had occurred between Doctors and the Trained nurses (Nurses) of the Melbourne District Nursing Society (MDNS), from its inception in 1885. This increased when Midwifery was introduced in August 1893 with close liaising with the Women’s Hospital. As District nursing grew it was recognized that closer liaising between many Public Hospitals would be beneficial, for not only the MDNS, later called Royal District Nursing Service (RDNS) Trained nurses (Sisters), but also for the patients and the hospitals. In August 1964 a Liaison Officer commenced at the Alfred Hospital. This soon increased to Liaison Officers working full time at several Public Hospitals. They facilitated the smooth transition from hospital to home for many patients who required ongoing nursing care. Liaison Sisters regularly attended discharge planning meetings, interviewed prospective patients, co-ordinated discharge, and booked the first visit by the visiting RDNS Sister. At the time of a patient’s discharge, the Liaison Sister forwarded information on their diagnosis and instructions regarding the care required at home to the appropriate RDNS Centre, and in turn the attending District Sister wrote a report of progress and any queries to the Hospital Doctor, via the Liaison Sister, at the time the patient was attending outpatients. Any new instructions were then sent back to the District Sister. Liaising also occurred between District Sisters and Doctors when patients were referred by General Practitioners and did not attend a hospital. In August 1893 Melbourne District Nursing Society (MDNS), commenced a Midwifery Service with Nurse Fowler, who was trained in General nursing and Midwifery nursing, being the first Midwife employed. Mothers were assessed for suitability of a home birth or if they required delivery at the Women’s Hospital. The Midwife worked in conjunction with the Doctors at the Women’s Hospital and if a complication arose before or after birth the patient was transferred to their care. Following birth, the Midwife gave Post-Natal care to both the mother and babe commencing with visits twice a day. In 1898 the service ceased due to lack of funds but recommenced in 1906, and in the August 1925 Annual Report the number of MDNS home births was recorded at 478. MDNS built the After-Care Home and a pioneering Anti-Natal Clinic was opened in 1930. The last Ante-Natal clinic was held there in December 1951 and the MDNS Midwifery service ceased in February 1952. In 1964 MDNS commenced a Post-Natal service with General and Midwifery trained MDNS Sisters working from a room on the ground floor in the Footscray Hospital Nurses quarters, and visiting early discharged Footscray Hospital maternity cases at home. Later, as Royal District Nursing Service (RDNS), this service was extended and renamed as Domiciliary Infant and Maternal Care, (DIMC) service operating from most Centres and visiting early discharged, often 24 hours after birth, maternity cases from hospitals to give Post-natal care to the mother and babe. Many of the RDNS Sisters who worked in DIMC also had their triple Infant Welfare Certificate, though double certificate Midwifery trained Sisters also visited. On the left of this black and white photograph is Royal District Nursing Service (RDNS) Sister Margaret Schofield, who has her long dark hair drawn back, and is smiling as she looks down at a baby being held in the arms of a Hospital Sister. Sr. Schofield is wearing a light grey skivvie under a V neck dark tunic style frock. She has a pen in the V of her tunic, and has a watch hanging under the RDNS logo on its left hand side. Her left hand is resting on a white table which has baby scales with a wicker basket on it. To the right, is the Hospital Sister, who is side-on and facing Sr. Schofield. She is wearing dark rimmed glasses; has her long dark hair drawn back and is wearing a dark cardigan over her white uniform. She has her right arm under the baby with her hand on babe's right leg; her left hand is holding the baby's feet. The baby has sparse dark hair and is wearing a white patterned jacket. Part of a dark filing cabinet is on the right of the photograph and behind the Sisters is a large window, then grass, small shrubs and part of a corrugated clad building can be seen beyond.Barry Sutton LP 43royal district nursing service, rdns, rdns dimc, rdns uniform, sister margaret schofield

Sister Snyders is based at RDNS Essendon Centre. She is a trained midwife working in the RDNS Domiciliary Infant and Maternal Care (DIMC), section and is attending a recently born baby in her home to give Post-Natal care. Often mothers and babes came home early from hospital, many after 24 hours of birth, and RDNS Sisters attended for several days to check babies progress, including - colour, feeding regime, weight, take a PKU test and give any advise needed to the mother. They also gave Post-Natal care to the mother. In August 1893 Melbourne District Nursing Society (MDNS), commenced a Midwifery Service with Nurse Fowler, who was trained in General nursing and Midwifery nursing, being the first Midwife employed. Mothers were assessed for suitability of a home birth or if they required delivery at the Women’s Hospital. The Midwife worked in conjunction with the Doctors at the Women’s Hospital and if a complication arose before or after birth the patient was transferred to their care. Following birth, the Midwife gave Post-Natal care to both the mother and babe commencing with visits twice a day. In 1898 the service ceased due to lack of funds but recommenced in 1906, and in the August 1925 Annual Report the number of MDNS home births was recorded at 478. MDNS built the After-Care Home and a pioneering Anti-Natal Clinic was opened in 1930. The last Ante-Natal clinic was held there in December 1951 and the MDNS Midwifery service ceased in February 1952. MDNS established Melbourne's first Family Planning Clinic in 1934. In 1964 MDNS commenced a Post-Natal service with General and Midwifery trained MDNS Sisters working from a room on the ground floor at the Footscray Hospital Nurses quarters, and visiting early discharged Footscray Hospital maternity cases at home. Later, as Royal District Nursing Service (RDNS), this service was extended and renamed as Domiciliary Infant and Maternal Care, (DIMC) service operating from most Centres and visiting early discharged, often 24 hours after birth, maternity cases from hospitals to give Post-natal care to the mother and babe. Many of the RDNS Sisters who carried out DIMC visits also had their Triple i.e. Infant and Child Welfare Certificate, though Midwifery trained nurses also made visits. This black and white photograph shows a close up view of Sister (Sr.) Mary-Ann Snyders from Royal District Nursing Service (RDNS), who is standing and cradling a recently born baby in the crook of her left arm; her supporting arm extends along the babe and her right arm is under babe. Sr. Snyders has short dark hair and is wearing a white gown over her uniform. She is smiling down at the babe, who has dark hair and is wearing a check bib over a white nightdress. To the left, voile curtains are seen over a window and in the background, part of an open patterned curtain is seen.Barry Sutton LW 4royal district nursing service, rdns, rdns dimc, sister mary-ann snyders

Post Card: Melton Railway Station 1909 Mattie to Fred My Dear Fred I received your letter and the L2 10/- I was very pleased to hear that I could write again. You say you will come home after the last shead. I should think so. I had a letter from E Jenkins so I am going down to see her next week we call the baby Fernie now I hope you will agree. Dear Fern has got the whooping cough. Written on the side: I suppose you will be away four weeks yet. Love from Mattie will write on Sunday. This letter appears to be connected with the post card Barwonleigh Saturday October 1908 handwriting My Dear Mattie I received your letter and was sorry to hear of our dear little babys misfortune how did it happen do you know what was the cause of it Mrs Watts must be a blind old fool not to have known what it was when you took him to her the first time poor dear you must be worried to death with all this trouble tell me what the doctor thinks of the rupture. I do hope dear he will get over this all right you must be nearly dead going without sleep for so long I had a bit of misfortune myself on Thursday the machine locked and jumped out of my hand and stuck in my bone I kept on working but it was very painful as all the holding is done with the..next page ..knee the boss also has been chipping a good deal this week he says the next time he has occasion to speak to me I will have to go he is very particular. I would like to go through if possible even if I do a lot less. I have about sixteen hundred done up to now and would get another nine hundred if I was let alone but I suppose we will live lovie even if I go do you know if they are full handed at Eynesbury if I thought I could get a week there I would cut myself out here quick. Well dear lovie I am sending you a couple of pounds as I suppose you will want it to get a truss. I don’t think they are very expensive and hope things will find this better with you. Well my dear love I must close with fond love for you and baby from your loving Husband Fred Post Card: 16 Aug 1909 - Mathoura The card depicts a small sailing boat laden with blue flowers. Well Dear Wife you see I have kept my promise. I rode all the way up here and also carried all my luggage with me it came in handy as I had to camp on the road last night between Rochester and Echuca surrounded by water. I had to walk all the way pretty well from Rochester to Echuca. I am now waiting for the train to Deniliquin. Love to you and my little son Fred. From you loving Husband Fred Written along the top and side of the card. what do you think if the card comes in all right as I have been wading through water all day yesterday and this might be …? will write when I get to the Station, don’t forget to look after the little Freddie and remember me to mother. Post Card: 1909 - view across the Flat from the Creek looking to the Presbyterian Church in the distance with some small dwellings in the foreground. To Mr Fred Myers Wandook Stn Denniliquin NSW Dear Fred, received your letter I am sorry to hear you are having such wet weather I will write a letter tomorrow baby is better With Love from M Post Card: 1910 Postmark Stamp 1d Aug 12 1910 Moama NSW Melton postmark stamped Aug 25? Hare Street, looking south Echuca Mrs F Myers, Melton P O Vic Dear Mattie, Just a line to let you know I got here all right I go to Pericotta tonight and to Cobran to morrow best love to all from yours Fred Letter Cobran Stn Via Deniliquin N.S.W. Sunday 21st Aug extract I am having a good time here, a good cook and the best of everything no fires to light or kettles to boil just get up and wire in… plenty hard work the sheep are pretty tough but much better than Wandook. I am well among them here we had a little rain on Friday but not enough to stop us so we have got one full week in .. the weather is lovely. I have been basking in the sunshine mainly in the morning and feel strong and fit a as fiddle, they are a grand lot of men here I only knew one out of the lots but know them all pretty well now, we have a bit of a concert here every nights almost there are a few good singers here and we also had a phonograph up from the station with all the latest records we have two dancers among ourselves very boisterous affairs indeed thy do make the dust fly. I have not ventured to take part in it and don’t think I will either. I get enough dancing all day long and besides I have to furnish the music you ought to see them going when I rattle up the concertina. Letter Cobran Stn via Deniliquin Thursday Sept 1st 1910 [abbreviated] My Dear Mattie, I received your welcome letter today. I though I was never going to get one as it was Sunday fortnight when I wrote to you but we only the mail here twice a week so it takes a long time to write and get an answer. I also got a reply from Eynesbury and a favourable reply it starts on the 13th Oct. …. I have 800 sheep shorn up to date and am fifth among about 30 men. I am sending two more [Ls] this time which I drew on Saturday. I don’t like sending too much more this time as there is a chance of it going astray and it is not very easily earned…. Things must be humming in Melton with all them babies coming and people getting married… I suppose we will be having new neighbours soon. If Mr Watts is selling out he was getting more property then he could keep. I hope you will soon have rain…. you will have to watch our little boy the dear little rascal he must be getting very cute opening the gates he will be tumbling into the tank …. I love to think of the happy times we have had together and hope that we will love one another to the end .. the mail will not leave here until Monday Love to you dear wife and baby Fred Post Card: – I Cling to you like Ivy Cobran September 18th 1910 Fred awaits a letter from Mattie I still have three weeks here yet.. I am sending L2 tell if you got the other 1L 1911 Letters Fred to Mattie October Spring Plains Oct 1911 Mia Mia Post Office I had a great job to catch the train at Diggers Rest as after I turned off the Keilor Rd it was very way and muddy and I had to walk a lot of the way and got there just in time. I came right into Redesdale by the train and stopped there last night… they had heavy rain on thursday up here and a tremendous fall of hail which covered the ground over a foot deep. There are only 4 shearers here yet.. I saw some of the sheep they look very rough and big so there will be no big tallies done, the men are saying he is giving 2s per hundred extra, so that will help a little. We are going to start Cobran via Deniliquin. Post Card: three scenes of Mathoura 10/9/1914 EB on a photo copy 10/9/12 ? Mathoura Thursday Dear Mattie, Just a line to let you know I got up here all right. I rode the seat out of my trousers. I have done 100 miles on the bike. I met none of the old hands this time so will go out on my own… Your loving husband Fred, did Marjie miss me at all. Post Card: Cobran 15th Sept 1912 Hearts and intertwined flowers and little envelope he has written Marjorie …just a line to let you know I will cut out here Friday next in find, we have had two falls of rain since I wrote and it has bean blowing a hurricane for couple of days and may blow up again however if we are delayed I will send you a card Wednesday I am longing to see you and the two little kiddies again…. Fred Copy only Golf Hill Sep 26th Cut out 31 Oct Total 2332 1913 Post Card: Scene View Street, Bendigo August 1913 Mathoura Tuesday My Dear Mattie Just a line to let you know I got up here all right. Teddy Ginger and another couple of chaps on the way ……. Letter Cobran Sunday Aug 7th 1913 My Dear Mattie Just a line to let you know that weather permitting we will cut out here about Thursday morning….I have not got any more shearing here. I have not heard from the other place…. Expect me about Friday …. I suppose Freddie and Marjie will be glad to see me, Marjie will climb all over me. I will be glad to se you all again you will have a fortnight before Golf Hill starts. I see in the Express you sent that Annie McPherson of (Dunvegan) is engaged to Len Farrell, she appears to be going to take no risks with him she wont let him slip through her hands like the banker did…… Fred Post Card: 1914 Garland of roses Warrambeen Stn Shelford PO October 14th 1914 Birthday wishes. Post Card: Love’s Golden Chain Golf Hill Tuesday Oct 17 1914 Birthday wishes [ this one might be a different year] Letter Cobran Wed 2nd Sept 1914 My Dear Mattie, I received your welcome letter today and also the papers which were very acceptable as we don’t get many papers here we only get see one at odd times as we get none for the hut this year.. I have not seen a bit of butter since I left home as it is too dear for us for sinners here. Poor Marjie had a cold.. so the little kid wants to go to the war, she must think it is good like a picnic. We had light rain on Monday as usual only half a day’s shearing in the shed so that is all we done this week, we took a vote 9 to 6 no shearing so nothing till to morrow morning Thursday so there is still a good fortnights shearing to do, will do nothing Saturday polling day as we have to go 13 miles is near Services where I was last year so we will want the full day 50 men to vote and some will probably have to walk to get there, all solid for Labour. I have just had an interval for lunch, pudding, yeast buns and rock cakes… We are doing nothing but eating and sleeping this week. Fred I am sending L1 in this which will do you till I come back if I keep drawing up I will have none when I finish so make the most of it. Post Card: Two doves with violets 1915 Cobran Wed 18th Sept [could be 1912] Sorry to tell you we are delayed with rain so will not be home till next week… only 3 days of shearing to do…. expect me about the middle of next week….I wish I was with you now and the dear little ones Fred Post Card: Iris Flowers Barwonleigh Stn Tuesday Oct 14th 1918 Happy birthday greetings from Fred Post Card: Irrigation channel Swan Hill 5 Year not shown Swan Hill Tuesday night Just a few lines to let you know I got this far all right. I had to walk nearly all the way to Gisborne and got there last night and took the train here today. It has been raining all the way between Gisborne and here. Moulamein tomorrow. I think it will be another case of walking as it is wet here no metal roads all mud. best love to yourself and the little ones and also mother. will write Sunday Post Card: The White Man’s Burden.The writing on the back rubbed out Mattie has written, I was weighed and I am 8 stone 10 pounds. 14 Post Cards, some have the original dates, others have the date added later by Martha. Two envelopes, one with addressed to Melton postmark Moule, stamp torn off, the other Cards from my dear Fred. The letters and the notebooks can be cross checked according the their contents. Italics show the dates added by Mattie local identities