Nillumbik Commissioners used 'reserve power's to permit a controversial Shell service station and Hungry Jackls restaurant development at the former Eltham Shire Office site at 895 Main Road. More than 200 people attended the Council meeting in the public gallery and protested at the decision. 32 personal submissions were made to Council's Planning Special Committee meeting whose members vioted 3-2 against the development. The Committee consisted of the three Nillumbik Commissioners and three community members (Jim Connor, Bronwyn South and Janet Mattiske). Chief Commissioner Don Cordell, a former Shell employee excused himself from voting and the three communbity memebrs voted against the submission. The other two commissioners, Vin Heffernan and Kevin Abbott voted against it. They then immediately closed the meeting and opened a Council meeting lasting just seconds to use special reserve powers to overturn the decision. The demolition of the former Shire of Eltham offices and proposed sale and development driven by the Commissioners for Nillumbik Shire Council brought the community together in substantial protest at the infrigement of ratepayers democratic say in local government and ciommunity assets combined with protests about inappropraite development of Eltham's Gateway. This issue led to the formation of the Eltham Community Action Group which still operates strongly today (2023) on behalf of the community to ensure appropriate development within the community.895 main road, commissioners, dallas price homes, development application, eltham hub, hungry jacks, nillumbik shire council, re-zoning, shell service station, town planning, eltham gateway, eltham gateway action group, eltham shire offices, shillinglaw farm, shillinglaw trees, jim connor collection, dallas howgate, nillumbik planning special committee, jim connor, bronwyn south, janet mattiske, don cordell, vin heffernan, kevin abbott

Nillumbik Commissioners used 'reserve power's to permit a controversial Shell service station and Hungry Jack's restaurant development at the former Eltham Shire Office site at 895 Main Road. More than 200 people attended the Council meeting in the public gallery and protested at the decision. 32 personal submissions were made to Council's Planning Special Committee meeting whose members vioted 3-2 against the development. The Committee consisted of the three Nillumbik Commissioners and three community members (Jim Connor, Bronwyn South and Janet Mattiske). Chief Commissioner Don Cordell, a former Shell employee excused himself from voting and the three communbity memebrs voted against the submission. The other two commissioners, Vin Heffernan and Kevin Abbott voted against it. They then immediately closed the meeting and opened a Council meeting lasting just seconds to use special reserve powers to overturn the decision. Subsequent to this the Commissioner run Council held a special meeting on Wednesday, October 23, 1996 where Commissioners Kevin Abbott and Vin Heffernan thanked all three community members of the Planning Special Committee and advised that their powers had been revoked. The article includes a joint statement from all three sacked members in which they state they have been able to bring a community perspective to the planning applications placed befopre the committee which has resulted in modifications to planning decisions. The members stated that "unfortunately, despite our best efforts to express considered apolitical opinions, it appears the Commissioners believe that any dissenting comment is politically motivated, and should therefore be disregarded." "We feel sad that this situation exists even though we have done everything possible tio represent the views of our community, whilst maintaining the integrity of the planning process."The demolition of the former Shire of Eltham offices and proposed sale and development driven by the Commissioners for Nillumbik Shire Council brought the community together in substantial protest at the infrigement of ratepayers democratic say in local government and ciommunity assets combined with protests about inappropraite development of Eltham's Gateway. This issue led to the formation of the Eltham Community Action Group which still operates strongly today (2023) on behalf of the community to ensure appropriate development within the community.895 main road, commissioners, dallas price homes, development application, eltham hub, hungry jacks, nillumbik shire council, re-zoning, shell service station, town planning, eltham gateway, eltham gateway action group, eltham shire offices, shillinglaw farm, jim connor collection, dallas howgate, nillumbik planning special committee, jim connor, bronwyn south, janet mattiske, don cordell, vin heffernan, kevin abbott

Newspaper advertisement, Eltham Vasectomy Centre, Diamond Valley News, May 24, 1995main road, eltham, businesses, eltham vasectomy centre

1. Dreams to be reality, The Valley Voice, 15 August 1979, p2 - announcement of proposed town square of 1800 square metres of shop area and open courtyard to be sited in the carpark between Arthur Street and Pryor street. The plans also included tree-lined walkways from both Arthur Street and a pededstrian footbridge across Main Road leading to aregular open-air market and tavern. Shop owners facing Main Road were to be encouraged to turn their businesses towards the square. On reverse side - 'General' Marshall and his troops; Valley votes in five new faces, The Valley Voice, 15 August 1979, p1 - picture showing newly elected Cr Robert Marshall 2. Square plan on display, Diamond Valley News, Tuesday, June 23, 1981, p1 - Council's prefered proposal on display to the public. On same page a story about the son of Cr Bob Manuell being attacked on the train from the city. On reverse side - Helping people - here and abroad by Marguerite Marshall, Diamond Valley News, Tuesday, June 23, 1981, p2 - about Keith Ryall of Zig Zag Road, the Apex international councillor for Australia 3. Plan: Eltham Town Centre property Acquisition, Shire of Eltham March 1994businesses, arthur street, bible street, commercial place, dudley street, eltham, franklins supermarket, luck street, main road, map, mcewans, pryor street, safeway supermarket, apex club, bronwyn ryall, keith ryall, zig zag road, cr bob manuell, cr robert allen, det sgt noel murphy, eltham chamber of commerce, eltham police, eltham shire council, eltham town square, lorraine manuell, pauline toner mp, robert manuell, rodney roscholler, shire planner, vicrail, elections, h&j white general store, hurstbridge, leslie bowker, main street, mrs marshall, pam lawson, robert marshall, rosemary tovey, central park, comfort station, eltham little theatre, montmorency, public toilets, rotex cinema, were street

Plenty Township Estate "The rapid growth of Greensborough and the great traffic development on the main road between Heidelberg and Eltham augurs well for Plenty Township Estate. Already a Store, Post Office and State School have been started, and the activities of the Local Progress Association will help the district forward considerably. Within walking distance of the Montmorency and Greensborough stations." Bryn Teg Hill's Estate "Better known as "The Old Sand Hill, "within walking distance of the Montmorency and Greensborough railways stations." "Some few years back Mrs Thomas subdivided portion of the Sand Hill Paddocks, and the areas sold have been settled and many converted into charming outer suburban garden homes with cultivation and orchard plots. The south-eastern slope gives the land a grand outlook over the Yarra Valley on to the Dandenoings, and the are is very picturesque and homely." "A number of the blocks contain large deposits of valuable building sand, which should prove good speculation in view of the forecast for further rapid home development along the Eltham Suburban Electric Service." Sand Hills Road (Old Eltham Road) Date estimated as c.1924 - Electricification of railway line to Eltham referenced on map occured April 1923 and Mrs Mary Thomas died August 1925. Her home Bryn Teg became part of the Heidelberg Golf Club in 1927.The establishment of Lower Plenty as a suburban growth area supported by easy commuting facilitated by the elctrification of the Eltham railway linebonds road, bridge, bryn teg hill's estate, coghill & haughton, eltham road, heidelberg golf club hotel, houses, lower plenty, lower plenty bridge, lower plenty road, main road, plenty hotel, plenty river, plenty township estate, real estate agent, sales brochure, sand hills road, the old sand hill, sand hill paddocks, woodfull road, old eltham road, bryn teg, mrs m thomas

Wellers of Kangaroo Ground Vertical File Contents: 1. Article: History of Wellers Restaurant by Sandra Cahir, revised 2017. 7 pages 2. Article: Weller’s Hotel of Kangaroo Ground (final draft) by Jim Allan, 1 June 2017, including feedback email from Sandra Cahir (7 May 2017). 3. Printout of online image - Kangaroo Ground landholders from 1841, Kangaroo Ground Presbyterian Church. (2022, June 29). Retrieved from https://kgpc.pcvic.org.au/images/history_images/Kangaroo-Ground-landholders.jpg 4. Folder of printouts of historical newspaper articles referencing the hotel 1866-1911 https://trove.nla.gov.au/list/163201 5. Printouts (various versions) from Victorian Heritage Database (National Trust and Nillumbik Shire) https://vhd.heritagecouncil.vic.gov.au/ 6. Collection of research notes, copies of records from various publications including EDHS Chronology of Events and Kangaroo Ground: The Highland Taken by Mick Woiwod, pp90, 180-181 (EDHS_01618). 7. Report: Request for ministerial amendment to use the property as a restaurant, includes existing conditions and plan for development, 1 November 1984 8. Papers donated by Diana and Peter Bassett-Smith including: a. Photocopy of Weller’s Hotel, Licensee M. Weller b. Letter: Shire of Eltham to Office of the Secretary for Planning and Environment, 23 Feb 1984 - Information regarding inclusion of Wellers Hotel into the Historic Buildings Register c. Letter: Historic Buildings Council letter to Peter Bassett-Smith seeking historical information on Wellers Hotel, 10 Jan 1985 d. Memo: Peter Bassett-Smith to Robert N. Hendrey on history of Wellers Hotel, 28 Jan 1985 - Includes extract of information about Mary Weller, Dept. of Crown Lands and Survey Map NILLUMBIK showing properties of John Weller and E. Weller and a Diamond Valley News article from 10 April 1973, p11, "Eltham on old coach route" 9. Information about the Weller family including family trees from various sources a. Edward Weller, Pioneer Families in Victoria, http://mepnab.netau.net/w/w09.html, 1 Jan 2017 (link broken) b. The WELLER family tree. (2017, January 1), 2 pages. Retrieved from https://www.weller.org.uk/cgi-bin/FamilyTree/ShowFamily.pl? and 27 pages Retrieved from https://www.weller.org.uk/cgi-bin/FamilyTree/ShowFamily.pl?ListAllPeople=A c. Edward WELLER on the WELLER family tree. (2017, January 1), 1 page. Retrieved from https://www.weller.org.uk/cgi-bin/FamilyTree/ShowFamily.pl?PersonID=516 d. Photograph (print copy), believed to be Edward Weller, 1836-1883 e. Photograph (print copy), Gravestone of Weller family at Kangaroo Cemetery f. Wellers of Kangaroo Ground, 1 page, possibly from History, http://www.wellers.com.au (broken) c.2016 g. Edward and Mary Weller miscellaneous biographical research notes (by Jim Allen?) including from Ancestry.com, and extracts from Chappel file (EDHS_04448) with relevant names highlighted h. Information about the Vernon Pitman family from Ancestry.com 10. Newspaper articles: a. Cobb & Co called here by Marguerite Marshall; Diamond Valley News, May 4, 1982, p2 b. Rich is history, 30 August 1983 (very similar to previous article) c. Weller’s Pub - restaurant, craft store or art gallery? Diamond Valley News, October 22, 1985, p3 d. Despite years of neglect a magical charm lies waiting, Diamond Valley News, October 29, 1985 e. Old pub fate still in doubt, Diamond Valley News, (?) 29 October 1985 f. Renovated Weller’s Pub to begin its new stage of life, DVN 26 January 1988 g. Wellers Restaurant, Lynne Hillier, Network, October 1988, p14 h. Revolution at Wellers, Nillumbik Mail, December 20, 2000 i. Wellers brings on good times, Valley Weekly, June 22, 2005 j. Dine in with ideal outlook, Valley News, 10 August 2005 k. Advertisement: Wellers of Kangaroo Ground, Enjoy lunch, afternoon tea and dinner at Wellers from Tuesday to Sunday, Valley Weekly, Wednesday, August 31, 2005 l. Advertisement: Wellers of Kangaroo Ground, Appearing live; Normie Rowe Fri 24 Feb, Diamond Valley Leader February 22, 2006, p11 m. Advertisement: Wellers of Kangaroo Ground, Lunch Special, Diamond Valley Leader March 27, 2010 n. Braithwaite abounds to Kangaroo Ground, Gig Guide, The Age, Friday, October 8, 2010, p14 o. History up for grabs, Diamond Valley Leader, March 28, 2012 p. Advertisement: Wellers Restaurant, Freehold only for sale, Morrison Kleeman, Diamond Valley Leader, March 28, 2012 q. Restaurant’s crash course, Megan Bailey, Diamond Valley Leader, January 1, 2014, p3. Also accessible online - Staff praised after car crashes through Kangaroo Ground eatery. (2022, June 29). Retrieved from https://www.heraldsun.com.au/leader/north/staff-praised-after-car-crashes-through-kangaroo-ground-eatery/news-story/021c896a1ab6d76bd6b73f2e57dc1854 r. Eatery set for revival, Brittany Shanahan, Diamond Valley Leader 15 February 2017; Also, online as Much-loved Wellers of Kangaroo Ground to be relaunched as Italian restaurant Fondata 1872. (2022, June 29). Retrieved from https://www.heraldsun.com.au/leader/north/muchloved-wellers-in-kangaroo-ground-to-be-relaunched-as-italian-restaurant-fondata-1872/news-story/665777fb347584ef483867ae2b536a8f s. Fondata 1872 proves a big hit with food, Diamond Valley Leader 3 May 2017, p3 11. Wellers of Kangaroo Restaurant Bar Entertainment Functions, tri-fold brochure promotional brochure 12. Website Printout: Wellers Restaurant, Live Guide, (2017, January 5). Retrieved from http://www.liveguide.com.au/Restaurants_Bars/VIC/Kangaroo_Ground/Food_Styles/3... 13. Website Printout: Wellers of Kangaroo Ground, Only Melbourne (2017, January 30). Retrieved from http://www.onlymelbourne.com.au/wellers-of-kangaroo-ground 14. Printouts from Fondata 1872 website and Facebook page including colour photograph of sign in front and business card (2017).   Related EDHS Collection items • Wellers Hotel of Kangaroo Ground by Jim Allen, Part 1, Newsletter No. 235, Eltham District Historical Society, August 2017. Retrieved from https://elthamhistory.files.wordpress.com/2017/08/edhs-nl-235-aug-2017.pdf • Wellers Hotel of Kangaroo Ground by Jim Allen, Part 2, Newsletter No. 236, Eltham District Historical Society, October 2017. Retrieved from https://elthamhistory.files.wordpress.com/2017/10/edhs-nl-236-oct-2017.pdf • EDHS_03997 - Slide, Wellers Hotel, Pitmans Corner, Eltham-Yarra Glen Road, Kangaroo Ground, c.1975 https://victoriancollections.net.au/items/5e59e36221ea671798ac40eb • EDHS_03998 - Slide, Wellers Hotel, Pitmans Corner, Eltham-Yarra Glen Road, Kangaroo Ground, c.1975 https://victoriancollections.net.au/items/5e59e39e21ea671798ac9c27 • EDHS_03999 - Slide, Wellers Hotel, Pitmans Corner, Eltham-Yarra Glen Road, Kangaroo Ground, c.1975 https://victoriancollections.net.au/items/5e59e3c721ea671798acd2ef • EDHS_04000 - Slide, Wellers Hotel, Pitmans Corner, Eltham-Yarra Glen Road, Kangaroo Ground, c.1975 https://victoriancollections.net.au/items/5e59e3e021ea671798acfd68 • EDHS_04066-18 - Photograph, Wellers Restaurant, Eltham-Yarra Glen Road, Kangaroo Ground, c.Mar. 1989 https://victoriancollections.net.au/items/610f4dafa346aadcee7ac79c • EDHS_04041-26 - Photograph, Wellers Restaurant, 150 Eltham-Yarra Glen Road, Kangaroo Ground, c.May 1988 https://victoriancollections.net.au/items/610e2f4a7d65e7c945a35e69 • EDHS_04437 – Newsclipping, Renovated Weller's Pub to begin its new stage of life by Linley Hartley, Diamond Valley News, 26 January 1988 https://victoriancollections.net.au/items/5de4913921ea6710a46a85c7 • EDHS_04438 - Newsclipping, Wellers Restaurant by Lynne Hillier, Network, October 1988, p14 https://victoriancollections.net.au/items/5de4916f21ea6710a46aea0f • ArtStreams magazine (from Volume 9, 2004) ‘partnered' with Wellers in promoting and supporting the arts and culture. Various advertisements throughout, particular with live performance acts. Numerous references throughout to art and music performances on site. • Stephen Cummings and Joe Camilleri at Wellers Kangaroo Ground, ArtStreams, Vol. 9, No. 4, Sep/Oct 2004, p17 EDHS_04406 - Journal, ArtStreams: Whittlesea, Banyule, Darebin, Manningham, Nillumbik, Yarra; Vol. 9, No. 4, Sep-Oct 2004 https://victoriancollections.net.au/items/5bcc086021ea6804a82a92a9 • Daryl Braithwaite rocks up at Wellers, Fiona Sievers, ArtStreams, Vol.10 No.2, 2005, pp6-7 EDHS_04409 - Journal, ArtStreams: Vol. 10, No. 2, 2005 https://victoriancollections.net.au/items/60f5416ab06f0c13a9419541 • Ephemeral Sculpture by Peter Dougherty, ArtStreams, Vol.10 No.3, 2005, pp7-9. About sculptures created in or on the grounds of culinary establishments throughout the Shire. - Denise Keele-Bedford constructed ‘Ou Well’ at Wellers Restaurant and Vicky Shukuroglou, also at Wellers set up cotton banners printed and painted with natural dyes from onion skins, spinach, radish beetroot, turmeric and charcoal. EDHS_04410 - Journal, ArtStreams: Vol. 10, No. 3, 2005 https://victoriancollections.net.au/items/60f5436db06f0c13a941ae19 • Music at Wellers Restaurant, ArtStreams, Vol.10 No.4, 2005, p23 EDHS_04411 - Journal, ArtStreams: Vol. 10, No. 4, 2005 https://victoriancollections.net.au/items/60f543e4b06f0c13a941b059 • Weller’s Pub, Diamond Valley sketchbook / text by Brian McKinlay ; drawings by Graham Hawley, 1973, pp42-43 EDHS_00856 - https://victoriancollections.net.au/items/590852edd0ce7b14e8177da3 • Gold Field Coaches Stopped Here, Nillumbik now and then / Marguerite Marshall; photographs Alan King with Marguerite Marshall, 2008, pp86-87 EDHS_00977 - https://victoriancollections.net.au/items/5935f315d0cdd42c80f9cc52 External Links: • Historic Kangaroo Ground venue comes up for rare sale. (2022, June 29). Retrieved from https://www.smh.com.au/business/companies/historic-kangaroo-ground-venue-comes-up-for-rare-sale-20120325-1vshw.html • Wellers, Kangaroo Ground property sold with leaseback. (2022, June 29). Retrieved from https://www.urban.com.au/expert-insights/investing/37735-wellers-kangaroo-ground-property-sold-with-leaseback • Wellers, Kangaroo Ground | With Mark Seymour, at one of his …. (2022, June 29). Retrieved from https://www.flickr.com/photos/robertmilesdesign/4564390893/ • 2016 Notice of proposed deregistration - WELLERS OF KANGAROO GROUND PTY LTD 124 435 409. (2022, June 29). Retrieved from https://publishednotices.asic.gov.au/browsesearch-notices/notice-details/WELLERS-OF-KANGAROO-GROUND-PTY-LTD-124435409/35d43b89-159a-4435-963f-daec688a61ca • Search results for: Websites (archived). (2022, June 29). Retrieved from https://trove.nla.gov.au/search/category/websites?keyword=%22wellers%20restaurant%22 29 June 2022 edward weller, wellers of kangaroo ground, wellers hotel, wellers restaurant, mary weller, pittmans corner, fondata 1812 at wellers, historic buildings register, hotels, john weller, kangaroo ground, pitman's corner, bassett-smith collection

Photo taken by Nathan Islip who at the time was studying Architecture at the University of Melbourne. During his experience year he worked as a builder's labourer on the new Eltham Library construction project. Eltham Library Service 1930s - 1994 Originally collated by Harry Gilham, President, Eltham District Historical Society Inc (1993-2009) (edited 2022) In the Eltham township area, in the early 1930s, library books for adults were available from E J Andrew's newsagency in Main Road. In the newsagency cum haberdashery, some shelves were set aside for a lending library of adults' books. In 1935, Mr & Mrs JC Rains purchased the newsagency and continued the lending service until the late 1940s. At this time the business was extended from haberdashery to sell ladies' and men's clothing. The library section was discontinued. In the 1930s a mobile book library was also run by a Mr Foster of Bible Street, Eltham. In the 1950s adult books were available from racks in the foyer of the Eltham Shire Offices which was then located beside the Eltham Hall on the comer of Arthur Street and Main Road. In the early 1950s a referendum of ratepayers was called to seek public opinion on the issue of raising money for a public library for which the rates would have to be increased - the motion was defeated. On 11 November 1965 Eltham Shire Council, in conjunction with the City of Heidelberg and the Shire of Diamond Valley, met to form the Heidelberg Regional Library Service. Eltham was represented by Councillors Charis Pelling and John Lewis. The first library service for the Shire of Eltham from this group came in the shape of a bookmobile van which had, amongst others, a central stopover near the Shillinglaw trees outside the newly opened Shire offices at 895 Main Road, the original site of Shillinglaw Cottage and the former Shillinglaw farm. Present-day Wingrove Park was another stopover and the many recorded requests for this service can be read as denoting the areas of population or gathering points at that period throughout the Shire. 1968 saw the Shire convert the ‘Brinkkotter’ house in Dudley Street to house both adult and children's books. This library was originally staffed from the City of Heidelberg Library and records of committee meetings range from borrowing Heidelberg's old library shelving to trying to increase the Government's subsidy to a dollar for dollar basis. Book loans in the period 1966-67 totalled 30,400 and the following year ran to 52,113. With 2 books plus 1 paperback the limit per person, it was overcrowded and unable to house the range of other services which had become common library stock. Planning to extend the Shire Offices by the addition of the south wing was an opportunity to re-house the Shire's Library. The opening of the library in the extension was carried out on 17th August 1971 by the Hon R J Hamer ED, MP, Chief Secretary of Victoria. Cr Geoffrey Dreverman officiated as the Shire President. The Heidelberg Regional Library Service continued until September 1985 when it disbanded. On 21 November 1985 the Yarra Plenty Regional Library Service was established. At that time Eltham was represented by Councillors Mary Grant and Robert Manuell. By 1987, over-crowding of the Eltham Library and an inability to house the range of other services yet again rose to prominence. At a Council meeting held on 1 June 1987, the Councillors supported a resolution which threatened to close the library on 30 September 1987. Council's frustration arose from yet another re-run of the annual State Government versus Council Library funding and records show first arose in Eltham Council in 1967 with the Government of 1he day. After prolonged public anger and petitions the motion to close the library was rescinded in August 1987. Council, considering the community's concern, set up a ‘Library Review Working Party’ which a year later became the Library Occasional Committee with direct access to Council. This Committee investigated the workings of the 386 square metre library and found inadequate space for storage and display, lack of equipment, out-of-date furniture together with an increasing patronage which resulted in queues of borrowers becoming longer no matter when the library was open. Community consultation took the form of 1,000 questionnaires sent to users and non-users along with noticeboard reminders of what was planned. Council developed a strategy to set aside capital funds from 1988 on an annual basis so that preliminary planning and consultative expenses could be met, and construction could be completed early 1997. The Committee visited metropolitan libraries which were catering for a similar population as was projected for Eltham. Australia-wide Federal Government funding grants under the Local Capital Works Program became available from October 1992 for community projects endorsed by local Councils. The Eltham Council submitted a proposal, based on library findings and requirements accumulated by the Library Occasional Committee, to the Federal Grants Committee to build a new Eltham Library. The Federal Grants Committee supported the funding request allowing commencement of the library project three years earlier than planned. With finance finalised, the Council set up its Eltham Library Re-development Special Committee which was given the task of overseeing what could be the last major expansion of the Shire's Library Service as Eltham's population nears its projected maximum. The new library was designed by Gregory Burgess and Peter Ryan of Gregory Burgess Pty Ltd. Construction of the library commenced in 1993 and was officially opened May 22nd, 1994. The library building was designed to reflect its parkland setting. External features include: the roof which includes interesting aspects when viewed from Main Road; verandahs which provide ramp access and give a sheltered entrance to the building; walls which feature locally made mudbricks, conventional bricks and copper panels; and space for an outdoor courtyard/reading area which will be developed later. Internally there are several features. The building includes a foyer with a fireplace suitable for displays including artwork, a community multi-purpose room suitable for meetings or functions and an outdoor cafeteria. The ceilings are lined with Victorian Ash. The shapes for the ceiling give a free-flowing form to the building. Brush Box has been used for the circulation and information desks. The tree trunk columns are Grey lronbark from New South Wales. Arches and various-shaped windows add interest to the internal structure. The carpet design reflects the Eltham environment and compliments the natural colours and timbers used in the building. Tiles by artist Felix Bosari feature in the building and additional art by local artists added externally and internally to the building. Since 1994 the library has undergone a major extension to cater for children’s services and others. See also EDHS_02111 construction, eltham library

Photo taken by Nathan Islip who at the time was studying Architecture at the University of Melbourne. During his experience year he worked as a builder's labourer on the new Eltham Library construction project. Eltham Library Service 1930s - 1994 Originally collated by Harry Gilham, President, Eltham District Historical Society Inc (1993-2009) (edited 2022) In the Eltham township area, in the early 1930s, library books for adults were available from E J Andrew's newsagency in Main Road. In the newsagency cum haberdashery, some shelves were set aside for a lending library of adults' books. In 1935, Mr & Mrs JC Rains purchased the newsagency and continued the lending service until the late 1940s. At this time the business was extended from haberdashery to sell ladies' and men's clothing. The library section was discontinued. In the 1930s a mobile book library was also run by a Mr Foster of Bible Street, Eltham. In the 1950s adult books were available from racks in the foyer of the Eltham Shire Offices which was then located beside the Eltham Hall on the comer of Arthur Street and Main Road. In the early 1950s a referendum of ratepayers was called to seek public opinion on the issue of raising money for a public library for which the rates would have to be increased - the motion was defeated. On 11 November 1965 Eltham Shire Council, in conjunction with the City of Heidelberg and the Shire of Diamond Valley, met to form the Heidelberg Regional Library Service. Eltham was represented by Councillors Charis Pelling and John Lewis. The first library service for the Shire of Eltham from this group came in the shape of a bookmobile van which had, amongst others, a central stopover near the Shillinglaw trees outside the newly opened Shire offices at 895 Main Road, the original site of Shillinglaw Cottage and the former Shillinglaw farm. Present-day Wingrove Park was another stopover and the many recorded requests for this service can be read as denoting the areas of population or gathering points at that period throughout the Shire. 1968 saw the Shire convert the ‘Brinkkotter’ house in Dudley Street to house both adult and children's books. This library was originally staffed from the City of Heidelberg Library and records of committee meetings range from borrowing Heidelberg's old library shelving to trying to increase the Government's subsidy to a dollar for dollar basis. Book loans in the period 1966-67 totalled 30,400 and the following year ran to 52,113. With 2 books plus 1 paperback the limit per person, it was overcrowded and unable to house the range of other services which had become common library stock. Planning to extend the Shire Offices by the addition of the south wing was an opportunity to re-house the Shire's Library. The opening of the library in the extension was carried out on 17th August 1971 by the Hon R J Hamer ED, MP, Chief Secretary of Victoria. Cr Geoffrey Dreverman officiated as the Shire President. The Heidelberg Regional Library Service continued until September 1985 when it disbanded. On 21 November 1985 the Yarra Plenty Regional Library Service was established. At that time Eltham was represented by Councillors Mary Grant and Robert Manuell. By 1987, over-crowding of the Eltham Library and an inability to house the range of other services yet again rose to prominence. At a Council meeting held on 1 June 1987, the Councillors supported a resolution which threatened to close the library on 30 September 1987. Council's frustration arose from yet another re-run of the annual State Government versus Council Library funding and records show first arose in Eltham Council in 1967 with the Government of 1he day. After prolonged public anger and petitions the motion to close the library was rescinded in August 1987. Council, considering the community's concern, set up a ‘Library Review Working Party’ which a year later became the Library Occasional Committee with direct access to Council. This Committee investigated the workings of the 386 square metre library and found inadequate space for storage and display, lack of equipment, out-of-date furniture together with an increasing patronage which resulted in queues of borrowers becoming longer no matter when the library was open. Community consultation took the form of 1,000 questionnaires sent to users and non-users along with noticeboard reminders of what was planned. Council developed a strategy to set aside capital funds from 1988 on an annual basis so that preliminary planning and consultative expenses could be met, and construction could be completed early 1997. The Committee visited metropolitan libraries which were catering for a similar population as was projected for Eltham. Australia-wide Federal Government funding grants under the Local Capital Works Program became available from October 1992 for community projects endorsed by local Councils. The Eltham Council submitted a proposal, based on library findings and requirements accumulated by the Library Occasional Committee, to the Federal Grants Committee to build a new Eltham Library. The Federal Grants Committee supported the funding request allowing commencement of the library project three years earlier than planned. With finance finalised, the Council set up its Eltham Library Re-development Special Committee which was given the task of overseeing what could be the last major expansion of the Shire's Library Service as Eltham's population nears its projected maximum. The new library was designed by Gregory Burgess and Peter Ryan of Gregory Burgess Pty Ltd. Construction of the library commenced in 1993 and was officially opened May 22nd, 1994. The library building was designed to reflect its parkland setting. External features include: the roof which includes interesting aspects when viewed from Main Road; verandahs which provide ramp access and give a sheltered entrance to the building; walls which feature locally made mudbricks, conventional bricks and copper panels; and space for an outdoor courtyard/reading area which will be developed later. Internally there are several features. The building includes a foyer with a fireplace suitable for displays including artwork, a community multi-purpose room suitable for meetings or functions and an outdoor cafeteria. The ceilings are lined with Victorian Ash. The shapes for the ceiling give a free-flowing form to the building. Brush Box has been used for the circulation and information desks. The tree trunk columns are Grey lronbark from New South Wales. Arches and various-shaped windows add interest to the internal structure. The carpet design reflects the Eltham environment and compliments the natural colours and timbers used in the building. Tiles by artist Felix Bosari feature in the building and additional art by local artists added externally and internally to the building. Since 1994 the library has undergone a major extension to cater for children’s services and others. See also EDHS_02111 construction, eltham library

ELTHAM’S GROWTH HAS BEEN RAPID IN RECENT YEARS Unknown local paper c.1960s Recent years have seen a rapid change in the appearance of Eltham’s business centre - so rapid, in fact, that the growth of premises has been almost 300%. For more than thirty-five years Eltham had little more than a dozen traders - the town's business area spreading from Pryor Street in the north, to Pitt Street in the south. The greatest density of businesses - no more than a handful of shops - were situated in the present shopping centre but other essential services such as the Post Office, were located half a mile away. As the town's population grew and the need for more shops became apparent, the growth was centralised around the railway station and Shire hall. Few of the old premises are used for their original form of business today, though many are still in existence. One of the oldest (seen clearly in the illustration) still in use is now Ferrari's Greengrocery. This shop was Eltham's butchery in early days, conducted by Jim Ryan. Up to twenty years ago, Mr. Ryan ran his business from the shop. whilst his son toured Eltham in his horse and cart, cutting his customers' orders as he went from door to door. Another business - one of the few still trading in the same goods-was Burgoyne's Hardware. This is now owned by Mr. R. Clinton, a new shop has recently been added and shortly the old premises will disappear completely. The Burgoyne family were well known to Eltham's population. The Post Office and Store (then in Main Road, near Bridge Street) was run by Mr. and Mrs. Burgoyne. The Post Office was later moved, and attached to the hardware store. OLD HOTEL In this same area was the old Eltham Hotel, almost opposite the present hotel. The building still stands, but has been converted into a house. The hitching rail can still be seen by the roadside. Back in the township was Barber's Blue Gum store, later conducted by Mrs. Burges (mother of Garnet Burges) and claimed to be Eltham's oldest shop. Further down the road, just past the hardware store, was the barber shop and billiard saloon. Next door was E. J. Andrew's news agency, library and State Savings Bank. Eltham's original chemist's shop, or dispensary as it was called, is now an electrical repair shop. On this side of the street too, was Mrs. Monteith - Draper. Mr Monteith was the owner of Eltham' s bus service. This bus service had no regular route, but deposited passengers at the point nearest their homes - a. door to door taxi service. Next to Mrs. Monteith stood another grocery - and general store, and next again, the local blacksmith. Another of Butcher Ryan's sons was Eltham's blacksmith and obviously an enterprising man he conducted a timber business next door to his smithy's shop. These two premises are still run by one man - Garnet Burges. BOOM STARTS Twenty years ago, when Thompson's took over Eltham's pharmacy they occupied the old shop adjoining the Shire hall. The building of Thompson's new premises, from which· they operate today, was the beginning of Eltham's recent growth and development. With another grocery store and a bakery at the corner of York Street, a butcher near Franklin Street, a cobbler's shop opposite the State School (did you ever wonder what that-little building attached to one of Eltham's oldest houses had been?), and an estate agency conducted by Mr. Clark, now Eltham Real Estate - only one trader remained - and today, still carries on, the only original owner of one of Eltham's .oldest established businesses - Mr. Dave Lyon, of Lyon Bros. Garage, which was formerly located in what was later used as Chenowyth's Foundry in Main Road. From the early twenties until little more than six or seven years ago that was the picture of Eltham. Some businesses had changed hands - many years before Mr. C. Rains had acquired Andrew's news agency, Mrs. Monteith's drapery had become Mrs. R. Smith's home-made cake shop, to change again and again to many other types of business. But generally, Eltham was unchanged, for nearly thirty years. Then suddenly new shops mushroomed. The new news agency and drapery, the chemist and adjoining shops, a new butcher, a green grocer and several more. POPULATION DOUBLED In the space of a few years, fifteen new shops, two banks, a restaurant and a post office were built at Eltham. New types of businesses found a ready market in an area which was quickly almost doubling its population. A little over twelve months ago, another wave of progress hit Eltham. Since then eight more shops have been built - a cake shop and fish shop in Dalton [sic – Dudley] Street - for building areas are unprocurable in the Main Street shopping centre now – have been built by Mr. D. Kimball; a new ladies’ and children’s wear shop has been opened by Rains; Eltham Dry Cleaners have another of these new shops, and Mr. R. Clinton has built elaborate new premises. Further down the road, Mr. C. Campbell has built a new butcher's shop, and next door, at present under construction, are a self service store and a shop which Mr. J. Hodges will open on completion. In addition to these new shops, Mr. J. Millett has extended his grocery to almost twice its original size. FLOURISHING Outside the central area, other businesses are flourishing. Latimer's felt factory is being developed in a picturesque rustic setting; P. J. Timber and Trading Company have recently completed a large showroom and timber yard, and in the town itself Nicholson and Merritt are now completing the extension of their foot wear factory to double its former area. This is Eltham today. Progress is moving rapidly in this rural area on the fringe of the metropolis. Less than a decade has seen vast development. The years to complete that span of time will see even greater changes and greater prosperity in this heart: of the Diamond Valley. OLD LANDMARK GOES Perhaps the most famous landmark in Eltham's' business section disappeared last Wednesday when the towering blue gum in Pryor Street at the rear of Main Road shops was felled. The tree, stated to be more than 80 feet high, was the one for which the adjoining café was named, when that business was Eltham’s only provision store, long before the turn of the century. Mr. J. Millett, who now owns the property on which the tree stood, deeply regretted its removal, but was mindful of the need for expansion in the business area. The "Old Blue Gum" was removed by Mr. A. Wilson, expert tree feller, from Heidelberg. Its proportions might be assessed by these facts – it took a gang of experienced men two days to completely fell and clear the tree, and, falling sections being brought down by cable tipped electricity wires on the opposite side of Pryor Street.andrew's news agency, bakery, barber shop, barber's blue gum store, billiard saloon, blacksmith, blue gum, burgoyne's hardware, butcher, cake shop, chemist's shop, chenowyth's foundry, cobbler's shop, dave lyon, dispensary, draper shop. mr monteith, dudley street, e. j. andrew's news agency, electrical repair shop, eltham bus service, eltham butchery, eltham dry cleaners, eltham hotel, eltham railway station, eltham real estate, eltham shire hall, eltham shopping centre, eltham shops, eltham town centre, estate agency, expert tree feller, ferrari's greengrocery, fish shop, foot wear factory, franklin street, garnet burges, general store, grocery, heidelberg, horace clark, jim ryan, ladies’ and children’s wear shop, latimer's felt factory, library, lyon bros. garage, main road, mr. a. wilson, mr. c. campbell, mr. c. rains, mr. d. kimball, mr. j. hodges, mr. j. millett, mr. r. clinton, mrs. burges, mrs. monteith, mrs. monteith's drapery, mrs. r. smith's home-made cake shop, nicholson and merritt, p. j. timber and trading company, pitt street, post office, pryor street, self service store, shopping centre, state savings bank, taxi service, thompson's pharmacy, york street

Designed by multi-award-winning architect, Gregory Burgess, for which he won the 1995 Royal Australian Institute of architects (Vic.) Merit Award in the New Institutional category. Eltham Library Service 1930s - 1994 Originally collated by Harry Gilham, President, Eltham District Historical Society Inc (1993-2009) (edited 2022) In the Eltham township area, in the early 1930s, library books for adults were available from E J Andrew's newsagency in Main Road. In the newsagency cum haberdashery, some shelves were set aside for a lending library of adults' books. In 1935, Mr & Mrs JC Rains purchased the newsagency and continued the lending service until the late 1940s. At this time the business was extended from haberdashery to sell ladies' and men's clothing. The library section was discontinued. In the 1930s a mobile book library was also run by a Mr Foster of Bible Street, Eltham. In the 1950s adult books were available from racks in the foyer of the Eltham Shire Offices which was then located beside the Eltham Hall on the comer of Arthur Street and Main Road. In the early 1950s a referendum of ratepayers was called to seek public opinion on the issue of raising money for a public library for which the rates would have to be increased - the motion was defeated. On 11 November 1965 Eltham Shire Council, in conjunction with the City of Heidelberg and the Shire of Diamond Valley, met to form the Heidelberg Regional Library Service. Eltham was represented by Councillors Charis Pelling and John Lewis. The first library service for the Shire of Eltham from this group came in the shape of a bookmobile van which had, amongst others, a central stopover near the Shillinglaw trees outside the newly opened Shire offices at 895 Main Road, the original site of Shillinglaw Cottage and the former Shillinglaw farm. Present-day Wingrove Park was another stopover and the many recorded requests for this service can be read as denoting the areas of population or gathering points at that period throughout the Shire. 1968 saw the Shire convert the ‘Brinkkotter’ house in Dudley Street to house both adult and children's books. This library was originally staffed from the City of Heidelberg Library and records of committee meetings range from borrowing Heidelberg's old library shelving to trying to increase the Government's subsidy to a dollar for dollar basis. Book loans in the period 1966-67 totalled 30,400 and the following year ran to 52,113. With 2 books plus 1 paperback the limit per person, it was overcrowded and unable to house the range of other services which had become common library stock. Planning to extend the Shire Offices by the addition of the south wing was an opportunity to re-house the Shire's Library. The opening of the library in the extension was carried out on 17th August 1971 by the Hon R J Hamer ED, MP, Chief Secretary of Victoria. Cr Geoffrey Dreverman officiated as the Shire President. The Heidelberg Regional Library Service continued until September 1985 when it disbanded. On 21 November 1985 the Yarra Plenty Regional Library Service was established. At that time Eltham was represented by Councillors Mary Grant and Robert Manuell. By 1987, over-crowding of the Eltham Library and an inability to house the range of other services yet again rose to prominence. At a Council meeting held on 1 June 1987, the Councillors supported a resolution which threatened to close the library on 30 September 1987. Council's frustration arose from yet another re-run of the annual State Government versus Council Library funding and records show first arose in Eltham Council in 1967 with the Government of 1he day. After prolonged public anger and petitions the motion to close the library was rescinded in August 1987. Council, considering the community's concern, set up a ‘Library Review Working Party’ which a year later became the Library Occasional Committee with direct access to Council. This Committee investigated the workings of the 386 square metre library and found inadequate space for storage and display, lack of equipment, out-of-date furniture together with an increasing patronage which resulted in queues of borrowers becoming longer no matter when the library was open. Community consultation took the form of 1,000 questionnaires sent to users and non-users along with noticeboard reminders of what was planned. Council developed a strategy to set aside capital funds from 1988 on an annual basis so that preliminary planning and consultative expenses could be met, and construction could be completed early 1997. The Committee visited metropolitan libraries which were catering for a similar population as was projected for Eltham. Australia-wide Federal Government funding grants under the Local Capital Works Program became available from October 1992 for community projects endorsed by local Councils. The Eltham Council submitted a proposal, based on library findings and requirements accumulated by the Library Occasional Committee, to the Federal Grants Committee to build a new Eltham Library. The Federal Grants Committee supported the funding request allowing commencement of the library project three years earlier than planned. With finance finalised, the Council set up its Eltham Library Re-development Special Committee which was given the task of overseeing what could be the last major expansion of the Shire's Library Service as Eltham's population nears its projected maximum. The new library was designed by Gregory Burgess and Peter Ryan of Gregory Burgess Pty Ltd. Construction of the library commenced in 1993 and was officially opened May 22nd, 1994. The library building was designed to reflect its parkland setting. External features include: the roof which includes interesting aspects when viewed from Main Road; verandahs which provide ramp access and give a sheltered entrance to the building; walls which feature locally made mudbricks, conventional bricks and copper panels; and space for an outdoor courtyard/reading area which will be developed later. Internally there are several features. The building includes a foyer with a fireplace suitable for displays including artwork, a community multi-purpose room suitable for meetings or functions and an outdoor cafeteria. The ceilings are lined with Victorian Ash. The shapes for the ceiling give a free-flowing form to the building. Brush Box has been used for the circulation and information desks. The tree trunk columns are Grey lronbark from New South Wales. Arches and various-shaped windows add interest to the internal structure. The carpet design reflects the Eltham environment and compliments the natural colours and timbers used in the building. Tiles by artist Felix Bosari feature in the building and additional art by local artists added externally and internally to the building. Since 1994 the library has undergone a major extension to cater for children’s services and others. See also EDHS_02111jim connor collection, eltham, eltham library, panther place

Designed by multi-award winning architect, Gregory Burgess, for which he won the 1995 Royal Australian Insitute of architects (Vic.) Merit Award in the New Institutional category. Eltham Library Service 1930s - 1994 Originally collated by Harry Gilham, President, Eltham District Historical Society Inc (1993-2009) (edited 2022) In the Eltham township area, in the early 1930s, library books for adults were available from E J Andrew's newsagency in Main Road. In the newsagency cum haberdashery, some shelves were set aside for a lending library of adults' books. In 1935, Mr & Mrs JC Rains purchased the newsagency and continued the lending service until the late 1940s. At this time the business was extended from haberdashery to sell ladies' and men's clothing. The library section was discontinued. In the 1930s a mobile book library was also run by a Mr Foster of Bible Street, Eltham. In the 1950s adult books were available from racks in the foyer of the Eltham Shire Offices which was then located beside the Eltham Hall on the comer of Arthur Street and Main Road. In the early 1950s a referendum of ratepayers was called to seek public opinion on the issue of raising money for a public library for which the rates would have to be increased - the motion was defeated. On 11 November 1965 Eltham Shire Council, in conjunction with the City of Heidelberg and the Shire of Diamond Valley, met to form the Heidelberg Regional Library Service. Eltham was represented by Councillors Charis Pelling and John Lewis. The first library service for the Shire of Eltham from this group came in the shape of a bookmobile van which had, amongst others, a central stopover near the Shillinglaw trees outside the newly opened Shire offices at 895 Main Road, the original site of Shillinglaw Cottage and the former Shillinglaw farm. Present-day Wingrove Park was another stopover and the many recorded requests for this service can be read as denoting the areas of population or gathering points at that period throughout the Shire. 1968 saw the Shire convert the ‘Brinkkotter’ house in Dudley Street to house both adult and children's books. This library was originally staffed from the City of Heidelberg Library and records of committee meetings range from borrowing Heidelberg's old library shelving to trying to increase the Government's subsidy to a dollar for dollar basis. Book loans in the period 1966-67 totalled 30,400 and the following year ran to 52,113. With 2 books plus 1 paperback the limit per person, it was overcrowded and unable to house the range of other services which had become common library stock. Planning to extend the Shire Offices by the addition of the south wing was an opportunity to re-house the Shire's Library. The opening of the library in the extension was carried out on 17th August 1971 by the Hon R J Hamer ED, MP, Chief Secretary of Victoria. Cr Geoffrey Dreverman officiated as the Shire President. The Heidelberg Regional Library Service continued until September 1985 when it disbanded. On 21 November 1985 the Yarra Plenty Regional Library Service was established. At that time Eltham was represented by Councillors Mary Grant and Robert Manuell. By 1987, over-crowding of the Eltham Library and an inability to house the range of other services yet again rose to prominence. At a Council meeting held on 1 June 1987, the Councillors supported a resolution which threatened to close the library on 30 September 1987. Council's frustration arose from yet another re-run of the annual State Government versus Council Library funding and records show first arose in Eltham Council in 1967 with the Government of 1he day. After prolonged public anger and petitions the motion to close the library was rescinded in August 1987. Council, considering the community's concern, set up a ‘Library Review Working Party’ which a year later became the Library Occasional Committee with direct access to Council. This Committee investigated the workings of the 386 square metre library and found inadequate space for storage and display, lack of equipment, out-of-date furniture together with an increasing patronage which resulted in queues of borrowers becoming longer no matter when the library was open. Community consultation took the form of 1,000 questionnaires sent to users and non-users along with noticeboard reminders of what was planned. Council developed a strategy to set aside capital funds from 1988 on an annual basis so that preliminary planning and consultative expenses could be met, and construction could be completed early 1997. The Committee visited metropolitan libraries which were catering for a similar population as was projected for Eltham. Australia-wide Federal Government funding grants under the Local Capital Works Program became available from October 1992 for community projects endorsed by local Councils. The Eltham Council submitted a proposal, based on library findings and requirements accumulated by the Library Occasional Committee, to the Federal Grants Committee to build a new Eltham Library. The Federal Grants Committee supported the funding request allowing commencement of the library project three years earlier than planned. With finance finalised, the Council set up its Eltham Library Re-development Special Committee which was given the task of overseeing what could be the last major expansion of the Shire's Library Service as Eltham's population nears its projected maximum. The new library was designed by Gregory Burgess and Peter Ryan of Gregory Burgess Pty Ltd. Construction of the library commenced in 1993 and was officially opened May 22nd, 1994. The library building was designed to reflect its parkland setting. External features include: the roof which includes interesting aspects when viewed from Main Road; verandahs which provide ramp access and give a sheltered entrance to the building; walls which feature locally made mudbricks, conventional bricks and copper panels; and space for an outdoor courtyard/reading area which will be developed later. Internally there are several features. The building includes a foyer with a fireplace suitable for displays including artwork, a community multi-purpose room suitable for meetings or functions and an outdoor cafeteria. The ceilings are lined with Victorian Ash. The shapes for the ceiling give a free-flowing form to the building. Brush Box has been used for the circulation and information desks. The tree trunk columns are Grey lronbark from New South Wales. Arches and various-shaped windows add interest to the internal structure. The carpet design reflects the Eltham environment and compliments the natural colours and timbers used in the building. Tiles by artist Felix Bosari feature in the building and additional art by local artists added externally and internally to the building. Since 1994 the library has undergone a major extension to cater for children’s services and others. See also EDHS_02111jim connor collection, eltham, eltham library, panther place

Designed by multi-award winning architect, Gregory Burgess, for which he won the 1995 Royal Australian Insitute of architects (Vic.) Merit Award in the New Institutional category. Eltham Library Service 1930s - 1994 Originally collated by Harry Gilham, President, Eltham District Historical Society Inc (1993-2009) (edited 2022) In the Eltham township area, in the early 1930s, library books for adults were available from E J Andrew's newsagency in Main Road. In the newsagency cum haberdashery, some shelves were set aside for a lending library of adults' books. In 1935, Mr & Mrs JC Rains purchased the newsagency and continued the lending service until the late 1940s. At this time the business was extended from haberdashery to sell ladies' and men's clothing. The library section was discontinued. In the 1930s a mobile book library was also run by a Mr Foster of Bible Street, Eltham. In the 1950s adult books were available from racks in the foyer of the Eltham Shire Offices which was then located beside the Eltham Hall on the comer of Arthur Street and Main Road. In the early 1950s a referendum of ratepayers was called to seek public opinion on the issue of raising money for a public library for which the rates would have to be increased - the motion was defeated. On 11 November 1965 Eltham Shire Council, in conjunction with the City of Heidelberg and the Shire of Diamond Valley, met to form the Heidelberg Regional Library Service. Eltham was represented by Councillors Charis Pelling and John Lewis. The first library service for the Shire of Eltham from this group came in the shape of a bookmobile van which had, amongst others, a central stopover near the Shillinglaw trees outside the newly opened Shire offices at 895 Main Road, the original site of Shillinglaw Cottage and the former Shillinglaw farm. Present-day Wingrove Park was another stopover and the many recorded requests for this service can be read as denoting the areas of population or gathering points at that period throughout the Shire. 1968 saw the Shire convert the ‘Brinkkotter’ house in Dudley Street to house both adult and children's books. This library was originally staffed from the City of Heidelberg Library and records of committee meetings range from borrowing Heidelberg's old library shelving to trying to increase the Government's subsidy to a dollar for dollar basis. Book loans in the period 1966-67 totalled 30,400 and the following year ran to 52,113. With 2 books plus 1 paperback the limit per person, it was overcrowded and unable to house the range of other services which had become common library stock. Planning to extend the Shire Offices by the addition of the south wing was an opportunity to re-house the Shire's Library. The opening of the library in the extension was carried out on 17th August 1971 by the Hon R J Hamer ED, MP, Chief Secretary of Victoria. Cr Geoffrey Dreverman officiated as the Shire President. The Heidelberg Regional Library Service continued until September 1985 when it disbanded. On 21 November 1985 the Yarra Plenty Regional Library Service was established. At that time Eltham was represented by Councillors Mary Grant and Robert Manuell. By 1987, over-crowding of the Eltham Library and an inability to house the range of other services yet again rose to prominence. At a Council meeting held on 1 June 1987, the Councillors supported a resolution which threatened to close the library on 30 September 1987. Council's frustration arose from yet another re-run of the annual State Government versus Council Library funding and records show first arose in Eltham Council in 1967 with the Government of 1he day. After prolonged public anger and petitions the motion to close the library was rescinded in August 1987. Council, considering the community's concern, set up a ‘Library Review Working Party’ which a year later became the Library Occasional Committee with direct access to Council. This Committee investigated the workings of the 386 square metre library and found inadequate space for storage and display, lack of equipment, out-of-date furniture together with an increasing patronage which resulted in queues of borrowers becoming longer no matter when the library was open. Community consultation took the form of 1,000 questionnaires sent to users and non-users along with noticeboard reminders of what was planned. Council developed a strategy to set aside capital funds from 1988 on an annual basis so that preliminary planning and consultative expenses could be met, and construction could be completed early 1997. The Committee visited metropolitan libraries which were catering for a similar population as was projected for Eltham. Australia-wide Federal Government funding grants under the Local Capital Works Program became available from October 1992 for community projects endorsed by local Councils. The Eltham Council submitted a proposal, based on library findings and requirements accumulated by the Library Occasional Committee, to the Federal Grants Committee to build a new Eltham Library. The Federal Grants Committee supported the funding request allowing commencement of the library project three years earlier than planned. With finance finalised, the Council set up its Eltham Library Re-development Special Committee which was given the task of overseeing what could be the last major expansion of the Shire's Library Service as Eltham's population nears its projected maximum. The new library was designed by Gregory Burgess and Peter Ryan of Gregory Burgess Pty Ltd. Construction of the library commenced in 1993 and was officially opened May 22nd, 1994. The library building was designed to reflect its parkland setting. External features include: the roof which includes interesting aspects when viewed from Main Road; verandahs which provide ramp access and give a sheltered entrance to the building; walls which feature locally made mudbricks, conventional bricks and copper panels; and space for an outdoor courtyard/reading area which will be developed later. Internally there are several features. The building includes a foyer with a fireplace suitable for displays including artwork, a community multi-purpose room suitable for meetings or functions and an outdoor cafeteria. The ceilings are lined with Victorian Ash. The shapes for the ceiling give a free-flowing form to the building. Brush Box has been used for the circulation and information desks. The tree trunk columns are Grey lronbark from New South Wales. Arches and various-shaped windows add interest to the internal structure. The carpet design reflects the Eltham environment and compliments the natural colours and timbers used in the building. Tiles by artist Felix Bosari feature in the building and additional art by local artists added externally and internally to the building. Since 1994 the library has undergone a major extension to cater for children’s services and others. See also EDHS_02111jim connor collection, eltham, eltham library, panther place

A late afternoon storm on Christmas Day 2011. A flash flood occurred from significant rain fall and hail, which accumulated along an old waterway with floodwater submerging cars along Valonia Drive then down Grove Street flooding houses, through the Bible Street Reserve where it then submerged Main Road washing away the small railway trestle bridge opposite the reserve then flooding the Judge Book Village before finally entering the Diamond Creek. Widespread damage occured from hail and flash flooding.fay bridge collection, eltham, flood damage, floods, floodwater

A late afternoon storm on Christmas Day 2011. A flash flood occurred from significant rain fall and hail, which accumulated along an old waterway with floodwater submerging cars along Valonia Drive then down Grove Street flooding houses, through the Bible Street Reserve where it then submerged Main Road washing away the small railway trestle bridge opposite the reserve then flooding the Judge Book Village before finally entering the Diamond Creek. Widespread damage occured from hail and flash flooding.fay bridge collection, eltham, flood damage, floods, floodwater, main road, research fire brigade

Newspaper advertisement: Diamond Valley Leader, 9 May 2007, Sale of 111 Main Road.main road, eltham, property

Newspaper article: Goodwill gifts, Diamond Valley Leader, 15 December 2004, Melbourne City Mission seeking donations for residents of Eltham Retirement Village, manager Colleen Tenni. Newspaper advertisement: Diamond Valley Leader, 25 June 2005, Eltham Villa Aged Care. Newspaper advertisement: Diamond Valley Leader 15 October 2008, Eltham Villa Aged Care, manager Joanne Tomada. Newspaper advertisement: Diamond Valley Leader, 11 November 2009, Eltham Villa. Newspaper article: A home away from home, Diamond Valley Leader, 14 March 2007, Details of Eltham Villa, manager Mary Maleki. Newspaper article: A home away from home, Diamond Valley Leader, 21 July 2010, Eltham Villa Aged Care, manager Joanne Tomada, co-ordinator Tania Fox.main road, eltham, melbourne citymission, eltham retirement village, colleen tenni, eltham villa aged care, joanne tomada., mary maleki, tania fox, judge book retirement village

Newspaper advertisement: Diamond Valley Leader, 3 September 2008, sale of 1139 Main Road.main road, eltham, property

Newspaper advertisement: Diamond Valley News, 22 April 1980, Eltham Yamaha business under new management.main road, eltham, shops, eltham yamaha

Newspaper article: Units vote sparks row, Diamond Valley News, 8 April 1998, Nillumbik Council meeting discussed application for 7 double-storey attached units development at block from 1151 Main Road to Railway Road. Newspaper article: Units go-ahead as decision reversed, Diamond Valley News, 29 April 1998, Nillumbik Council discussed proposed developments at 1151 Main Road and 30 Swan Street. main road, eltham, property, houses, natalie woodley, robert marshall, marg jennings, john graves, lex de man, 30 swan street eltham, railway road eltham

Newspaper advertisement: Diamond Valley Leader, 25 July 2007, Sale of block 1152 Main Road. Newspaper advertisement: unknown publication, unknown date (?2015), Barry Plant sale of 3/1152 Main Road.main road, eltham, property, barry plant estate agent

Newspaper article: The right medicine, Diamond Valley News, 6 November 2011, Details of Peter Allen's Pharmacy, manager Sue Bannerman. Other local businesses listed: Eltham Deli, Skaterz Roller Skate and Blade Rink.main road, eltham, shops, businesses, peter allen's pharmacy, sue bannerman, eltham deli, skaterz roller skate and blade rink

Newspaper article: Prices are competitive, Diamond Valley Leader, 29 June 2005, Description of Eltham Home Timber and Hardware, owner Rob Deylen, staff Peter Wilhelm, Roger Kerr, Brian Weaver, Harley Lee. Newspaper article: Their aim is to please, Diamond Valley Leader, 26 October 2005, Description of Eltham Home Timber and Hardware, originally Eltham Hardware and Plumbing Supplies, staff Peter Wilhilm, Lindsay Campbell, Ben Deylan. Newspaper article: Eltham Home Timber and Hardware 35 years of service, Diamond Valley Leader, 5 May 2010, Description of Eltham Home timber and Hardware.main road, eltham, shops, rob deylen, peter wilhelm, roger kerr, brian weaver, harley lee., eltham home timber and hardware, eltham hardware and plumbing supplies, ben delay

Newspaper article: Houses split council, Diamond Valley Leader, 1 March 2006, Nillumbik Council meeting re application for 5 houses at 1220 Main Road.main road, eltham, property, houses, greg johnson, heather needham, andrew broadbent, bo bendtsen

Newspaper article: Order upsets family, Diamond Valley Leader, 5 October 2005, Helen Fitzpatrick ordered to vacate Nillumbik Council owned property at Alan Marshall Reserve for creation of a park. Newspaper article: Nature calls again for a real blessing, Diamond Valley Leader, 5 October 2005, St Margaret's Anglican Church to hold annual blessing of the animals service. Newspaper article: Family gets council reprieve on house until 2007, Diamond Valley Leader, 12 October 2005, Helen Fitzpatrick permitted to remain at property until 2007.main road, eltham, helen fitzpatrick, anna fitzpatric, molly fitzpatrick, ellen fitzpatrick, alan marshall reserve, bronnie hattam, bill forrest, greg johnson, libby delbridge, st margaret's anglican church eltham, gordon roberts

Newspaper advertisement: Diamond Valley Leader 27 June 2007, Morrison sale of 2/1228 Main Road Eltham.main road, eltham, property, morrison estate agent

Newspaper advertisement: Diamond Valley Leader, 6 April 2005, Ian Reid estate agent, sale of 4/1246 Main Road Eltham. Newspaper advertisement: Diamond Valley Leader, 6 April 2005, Ian Reid estate agent, sale of 7 Kelvin Avenue Montmorency,main road, eltham, property, ian reid real estate

Newspaper advertisement: Diamond Valley Leader, 6 April 2005, Kleeman real estate sale of 1250 Main Road Eltham.main road, eltham, property, kleeman real estate