Leslie William Cole was born on 31 January 1920 in Albury, the first child of William James Cole and Gwendoline Fair. Les spent most of his childhood living with his grandparents in Bethanga, Victoria. In 1934 when he finished school, Les moved into Wodonga. His first job was at Mates Timber Yard. He later worked for Mylons of Wodonga driving taxis and buses. In 1939 after completing militia training, Les applied to enlist with the RAAF and eventually trained as an Aircraft Mechanic. He was posted to the 6th Squadron, serving in Port Moresby, Milne Bay and Goodenough Island before returning to the RAAF base in Sale, Victoria. On discharge. Les returned to Wodonga and resumed working with Mylons. After a range of jobs, Les and his wife Lorna operated a shop in Ariel Street, Wodonga. In the community, Les was a founding member of Wodonga Lions Club. He also joined the Civil Defence which was a predecessor off the SES. He became the Communications Officer and trained other members. Les became the first Controller of the Wodonga Branch of the State Emergency Service, a position he held for 17 years. The new SES headquarters was named in his honour. In retirement he also worked as a Volunteer Community Driver. Les was also named Wodonga Citizen of the Year in 1984 Les continued living in Wodonga until the age of 103 in 2023, when he moved to Melbourne to be closer to his children. He passed away on 12 December 2023.These patches belonged to a local Wodonga resident who was instrumental in establishing the Wodonga SES.A collection of cloth and embroidery uniform patches worn on the uniform of Leslie Cole who was a founding and long-term member of the Wodonga State Emergency Service. Oval badges all bear the Southern Cross and a crownAround oval badges: VICTORIA STATE EMERGENCY SERVICE On epaulettes: COMMUNICATIONS / L. COLEstate emergency service, wodonga ses

Leslie William Cole was born in January 1920 in Albury, the first child of William James Cole and Gwendoline Fair. Les spent most of his childhood living with his grandparents in Bethanga, Victoria. In 1934 when he finished school, Les moved into Wodonga. His first job was at Mates Timber Yard. He later worked for Mylons of Wodonga driving taxis and buses. In 1939 after completing militia training, Les applied to enlist with the RAAF and eventually trained as an aircraft mechanic. He was posted to the 6th Squadron, serving in Port Moresby, Milne Bay and Goodenough Island before returning to the RAAF base in Sale, Victoria. On discharge. Les returned to Wodonga and resumed working with Mylons. After a range of jobs, Les and his wife Lorna operated a shop in Ariel Street, Wodonga. In the community, Les was a founding member of Wodonga Lions Club. He also joined the Civil Defence which was a predecessor off the SES. He became the Communications Officer and trained other members. Les became the first controller of the Wodonga Branch of the State Emergency Service, a position he held for 17 years. The new SES headquarters was named in his honor. In retirement he also worked as a volunteer community driver. Les was also named Wodonga Citizen of the Year in 1984 Les continued living in Wodonga until the age of 103 in 2023, when he moved to Melbourne to be closer to his children. This item represents Mr. Cole's service during World War 11.This item is significant as it represents the service of a respected Wodonga resident during World War 11.This item includes a cloth patch of the crest of the 6th Squadron RAAF as well as a printed menu from the Passing out dinner for fitters held at the Federal Hotel Melbourne. It has been autographed by the attendees acknowledged at this function.On the Insignia 6 SQUADRON ROYAL AUSTRALIAN AIR FORCE / NOUS REVIENDRONS (WE WILL RETURN) 6th squadron raaf, military service ww11

Leslie William Cole was born on 31 January 1920 in Albury, the first child of William James Cole and Gwendoline Fair. Les spent most of his childhood living with his grandparents in Bethanga, Victoria. In 1934 when he finished school, Les moved into Wodonga. His first job was at Mates Timber Yard. He later worked for Mylons of Wodonga driving taxis and buses. In 1939 after completing militia training, Les applied to enlist with the RAAF and eventually trained as an Aircraft Mechanic. He was posted to the 6th Squadron, serving in Port Moresby, Milne Bay and Goodenough Island before returning to the RAAF base in Sale, Victoria. On discharge. Les returned to Wodonga and resumed working with Mylons. After a range of jobs, Les and his wife Lorna operated a shop in Ariel Street, Wodonga. In the community, Les was a founding member of Wodonga Lions Club. He also joined the Civil Defence which was a predecessor off the SES. He became the Communications Officer and trained other members. Les became the first Controller of the Wodonga Branch of the State Emergency Service, a position he held for 17 years. The new SES headquarters was named in his honour. In retirement he also worked as a Volunteer Community Driver. Les was also named Wodonga Citizen of the Year in 1984. Les continued living in Wodonga until the age of 103 in 2023, when he moved to Melbourne to be closer to his children. He passed away on 12 December 2023. This torch was part of a collection of items donated to Wodonga Historical Society by Les Cole. The RSL emblem on this item was first introduced in 1990.A small tin containing an aluminium torch and 2 batteries in foam packing. The emblem of the Australian Returned Services League is etched on the lid. On side of torch: RETURNED & SERVICES LEAGUE AUSTRALIArsl australia, memorabilia

These town photos are part of a collection donated by Elaine Mann. Elaine was married to David Mann, a successful Wodonga businessman and community leader who passed away in Wodonga in June 2012. David was a member of the Mann family who began their business in Wodonga in 1920. Elaine was a teacher in Wodonga for many years and an active member of the community. Arthur Dunstan Hardware Arthur Dunstan established mills at Red Bluff on the Mitta and a timber yard at Wodonga. He also built a sawmill at Glen Wills in 1931 which operated for about 16 years. A larger and more modern sawmill with drying kilns was erected at Eskdale in 1947. He was contracted to build Wodonga’s Municipal sale yards in 1935, followed by the Wangaratta sale yards. This created so many forward orders that he bought a large block of land on the corner of Beechworth and Tallangatta Roads and opened a timber mill and hardware store. The business stood on this corner for about 40 years. A large proportion of the company's timber output was processed at the Wodonga yards into flooring, weatherboards, mouldings etc. and practically the whole output was distributed locally and throughout the Riverina and eastern areas of New South Wales, and Canberra. At its peak Dunstan’s was one of the biggest sawmilling businesses in Victoria and in Wodonga employed 150 people and milled l6,000,000 super feet of timber annually. A super foot is a measurement for timber, equal to one foot square by one inch thick. Arthur Dunstan also built Tower Place in High Street. He died in Wodonga in 1963 and the business was continued on by his sons. Dunstan’s timber yards in Wodonga were sold to Ezerd Industries in 1987 with the retail section being bought by BBC Hardware.This photo collection is of significance as it documents how the businesses and buildings in Wodonga have evolved and contributed to community throughout the late 20th century. A. Dunstan & Sons Hardware was located at the roundabout on the corner of High Street and Thomas Mitchell Drive (Formerly Tallangatta Road). "Southside Terrace" now occupies this site.wodonga businesses, high st wodonga, dunstan's hardware wodonga

Leslie William Cole was born on 31 January 1920 in Albury, the first child of William James Cole and Gwendoline Fair. Les spent most of his childhood living with his grandparents in Bethanga, Victoria. In 1934 when he finished school, Les moved into Wodonga. His first job was at Mates Timber Yard. He later worked for Mylons of Wodonga driving taxis and buses. In 1939 after completing militia training, Les applied to enlist with the RAAF and eventually trained as an Aircraft Mechanic. He was posted to the 6th Squadron, serving in Port Moresby, Milne Bay and Goodenough Island before returning to the RAAF base in Sale, Victoria. On discharge. Les returned to Wodonga and resumed working with Mylons. After a range of jobs, Les and his wife Lorna operated a shop in Ariel Street, Wodonga. In the community, Les was a founding member of Wodonga Lions Club. He also joined the Civil Defence which was a predecessor off the SES. He became the Communications Officer and trained other members. Les became the first Controller of the Wodonga Branch of the State Emergency Service, a position he held for 17 years. The new SES headquarters was named in his honour. In retirement he also worked as a Volunteer Community Driver. Les was also named Wodonga Citizen of the Year in 1984 Les continued living in Wodonga until the age of 103 in 2023, when he moved to Melbourne to be closer to his children. He passed away on 12 December 2023. The Lions Club of Wodonga was chartered in 1965 with 18 Founding Members including Les Cole. Lions Australia was first formed in Lismore, NSW in September and has grown to be Australia’s largest service club organisation.A small purple and gold fringed banner with the emblem of Wodonga Lions ClubAt the top centre: The logo of Lions International Across the centre of banner: Lions Club of Wodonga / District 201C Australia In semi-circle below Water Tower: Melbourne/ Falls Creek/Lake Hume/ Snowy Mountains/ Sydneyles cole, wodonga lions club, lions international

This photo is part of a collection of Wodonga Town Photos donated by Elaine Mann. Elaine was married to David Mann, a successful Wodonga businessman and community leader who passed away in Wodonga in June 2012. David was a member of the Mann family who began their business in Wodonga in 1920. Elaine was a teacher in Wodonga for many years and an active member of the community. The Terminus Hotel In 1873, James Thompson Hatch built the two-storeyed Terminus Hotel at 79 Sydney Road (later known as High Street), then sold it to George Day and Kenneth McLennan for £1,230. It was first licensed to J. G. Morton in January 1874. In 1879, Annie Allen, from Ireland, took over as licensee of the hotel containing 14 rooms, after she and her husband, George James Allen, purchased it. He became licensee in 1883. Under the Allens, the Terminus became, ‘a principal rendezvous for visitors to the town.’ September 1888 saw additions to the building that included a billiard room, a dining room, and 18 other rooms. Following the death of her husband in 1889, Annie Allen continued to run the Terminus Hotel. She later married John Haldon and was licensee of the hotel until 1893 when the licence was transferred to William Carkeek. In the early 1900s the Hotel was thoroughly renovated. The Terminus Hotel was for sale by auction on 5th March 1909. It comprised about 50 rooms, a two-storey building built of brick and iron with hot and cold water service and acetylene gas throughout. The principal hotel in Wodonga, was let from 1st January 1909 on a seven years’ lease at a rental of £9 per week. 1935 saw extensive improvements by proprietor W. P. Kinney, while in 1941 further extensive improvements were carried out to make a good hotel better. A pall of shock and disbelief descended over Wodonga’s historic Terminus Hotel on 1st June 1998 when it was destroyed by fire then demolished in 1999. The site was sold for almost $1 million and redeveloped for a medical clinic.This photo collection is of significance as it documents how the businesses and buildings in Wodonga have evolved and contributed to community throughout the late 20th century.Terminus Hotel; Gippsland & Northern Co-operative Pty. Ltd.; Graham Bradbury Men's Hairdresser; Patricia Anne Fashions; Australian Mercantile Land and Finance Company (A.M.L. & F). on the west side of High Street. The Terminus Hotel was built C. 1873. and was destroyed by fire in 1998, The Gippsland and Northern Co-operative Co. Ltd was formed in 1905, but the date of its establishment in Wodonga is not confirmed, but they were holding fortnightly sales at the Wodonga sale yards by early 1919.wodonga businesses, high st wodonga, terminus hotel, gippsland & northern

Kiewa Valley Line Dancers meet regularly to move in unison to music while standing in lines. There are certain moves that are memorised to the music creating the effect of everyone moving together while facing one direction and dancing on their own. Line dancing has been around for a long time possibly originating from round & square dancing in the 1800s. In the 1990s country western music was influenced by the popularity of line dancing. Then ballroom rhythms and technique took line dancing to the next level. Line dancing reached Europe and in 2008 gained the attention of the French government. Line dancers dance to most styles of music and is popular throughout the world.This shirt belonged to Lorna Reid who lived in Tawonga in the Kiewa Valley. Line dancing began with Jim Budd in Mt Beauty in 1994 at the old Guide Hall with the assistance of the Neighbourhood Centre. Isla, a visiting teacher, with her husband Peter, continued classes at the Community Centre followed by Yvonne Sutton. At this time Social events were held with clubs from Myrtleford, Wodonga, Albury and Wangaratta. The next teacher was Joy Keith who held classes twice a week (Tuesday and Wednesday), with Eileen Speechly, from Gippsland, who held a class on Saturdays. In 2007, Robyn Quick took classes. An Intermediate class on Wednesday and Beginners on Friday. She visits Myrtleford once a week to learn from a teacher there. Line dancing is still (2018) enjoyed by many women in the Kiewa Valley giving them the opportunity to socialize and exercise together.Red polo shirt with collar and two red buttons at top front. Short sleeves. Front and back - black print of two 'mountains' with "High Country / Line Dancers / Kiewa Valley. Label size 18 "Player"kiewa valley line dancers, music, kiewa valley, tawonga, lorna reid

In 1977 a group of Mount Beauty cross country skiers formed the Birkebeiner Nordic Ski Club. In 1979, a version of the famous Birkebeiner race, the first Australian Birkebeiner was held at Falls Creek. In June 1990 representatives from Australia put their case for a southern hemisphere race in the series. Following a trial event in 1990. Australia became the 12th member of Worldloppet in the winter of 1991, with the first Kangaroo Hoppet. In 1991 a parade and commemorative torch lighting ceremony were organised in Mt Beauty as part of the celebrations to mark the first official Kangaroo Hoppett with participation from local community groups and commercial organisations, the Chamber of Commerce, local government representatives and individuals.Kangaroo Hoppet caters to diverse interests by offering a 42km and 21km event. It also offers a 7km event that attracts skiers, ranging from elite juniors to parents, grandparents, babies and first time skiers. It is recognised on the world cross country ski race calendar. It brings large numbers of participants and spectators to the area which support tourism, local businesses and employment. The 2018 event will be the 28th Kangaroo Hoppet, with cross country skiers travelling from across the country and overseas to compete.PHYSICAL: Set of 22 colour photographs of the street parade to celebrate the first Official Hoppet race run at Falls Creek in 1991. Participants from a range of local community groups are traveling along Kiewa Cres. Photos are taken near the corner of Maddison St 1&2 – Horseman & accordion player leading the parade Sign reads ‘Falls Creek The Happy Mountain’ 3-4 Birkbeioner Nordic Ski Club with Chinese Nordic ski representatives 5 & 6- Girl Guides & Brownies 7, 8 & 9- Mt Beauty Primary School & Netball team 10 & 11- UKV Calisthenics Club 12- Lawn Bowls Club 13- Junior Football Club 14- Mt Beauty High School Band (on Wodonga Timber & Hardware truck) 15, 16 17 & 18- Mt Beauty Kindergarten 19,20, 21 & 22- Local Community Vehicles including Community Transport and Fire Brigade 23 & 24- Mt Beauty High School Band 25- Fiat 500 Topolino Vintage Car No markingskangaroo hoppet; cross country skiing; ski race; bogong high plains, mt beauty, parade

Prior to the sealing of the Kiewa Valley Highway in 1950, all heavy road stock including building materials, farm equipment and other heavy machinery had to be transported via railway lines to either Albury, Wodonga or Bright and then transported overland for the remainder of the distance by wagon on rough, poorly made roads. Trains also services the mining industries of the Ovens Valley and the transportation of tourists to Mount Buffalo and the very popular Mount Buffalo Chalet.Steam trains were a major form of transport for rural community members prior to the introduction of road transport. Local producers including farmers relied on rail transport to send and receive essential building equipment, farming produce, materials, stock and mail to maintain their lifestyles and social connections with the outside world. 3 black and white photographs of a building being transported by steam train. Photos show the train in three progressively closer photos. Photo shows a man standing in the doorway at the controls of the train, 3 figures, possibly children leaning out of the window of the carriage and another man, standing on the tracks with hands on hips. Photo could have been taken in Tallangatta, Cudgewa or Ebden near Lake Hume where trains were a major form of transport prior to the 1950’s. No markingstransportables; steam train; railway;, old tallangatta, esther temple

Norman Lowe's placements: Underbool 1953; Merbein 1955; Wodonga & Bethanga 1960; Immigration chaplain 1961-1962; Carlton & Fitzroy Mission 1963; Church of All Nations 1971; West Heidelberg 1974; Approved appointment Community Health Yallourn 1976. Later also Boronia, Dartmoor-Merino, and the Macedonian Church Preston. Lowe was born in 1924, ordained in 1958, and died on 11 November 2013.(F375-1) Lowes standing side by side; (F375-2) Lowe standing by airport exit gate (location unknown) with a large crowd ready to welcome him; (F375-3) Lowes standing amidst the welcoming crowd; (F375-4) Lowe talking to the welcoming crowd; (F375-5) Lowe standing amidst the welcoming crowd; (F375-6) Lowe being hugged by an unknown man from the welcoming crowd."The names of Norman Lowe and Mrs Lowe"lowe, norman

Norman Lowe's placements: Underbool 1953; Merbein 1955; Wodonga & Bethanga 1960; Immigration chaplain 1961-1962; Carlton & Fitzroy Mission 1963; Church of All Nations 1971; West Heidelberg 1974; Approved appointment Community Health Yallourn 1976. Later also Boronia, Dartmoor-Merino, and the Macedonian Church Preston. Lowe was born in 1924, ordained in 1958, and died on 11 November 2013.B & W photograph of Rev Norman Lowe leaving an unidentified airport.lowe, norman

Norman Lowe's placements: Underbool 1953; Merbein 1955; Wodonga & Bethanga 1960; Immigration chaplain 1961-1962; Carlton & Fitzroy Mission 1963; Church of All Nations 1971; West Heidelberg 1974; Approved appointment Community Health Yallourn 1976. Later also Boronia, Dartmoor-Merino, and the Macedonian Church Preston. Lowe was born in 1924, ordained in 1958, and died on 11 November 2013.B & W photograph of the Rev. Norman and Mrs Lowe, standing outdoors.lowe, norman

Norman Lowe's placements: Underbool 1953; Merbein 1955; Wodonga & Bethanga 1960; Immigration chaplain 1961-1962; Carlton & Fitzroy Mission 1963; Church of All Nations 1971; West Heidelberg 1974; Approved appointment Community Health Yallourn 1976. Later also Boronia, Dartmoor-Merino, and the Macedonian Church Preston. Lowe was born in 1924, ordained in 1958, and died on 11 November 2013.B & W photograph of Rev and Mrs Norman Lowe, and their son at an unidentified airport.lowe, norman

Norman Lowe's placements: Underbool 1953; Merbein 1955; Wodonga & Bethanga 1960; Immigration chaplain 1961-1962; Carlton & Fitzroy Mission 1963; Church of All Nations 1971; West Heidelberg 1974; Approved appointment Community Health Yallourn 1976. Later also Boronia, Dartmoor-Merino, and the Macedonian Church Preston. Lowe was born in 1924, ordained in 1958, and died on 11 November 2013.B & W photograph of Rev and Mrs Norman Lowe, and their son at an unidentified airport.lowe, norman

Norman Lowe's placements: Underbool 1953; Merbein 1955; Wodonga & Bethanga 1960; Immigration chaplain 1961-1962; Carlton & Fitzroy Mission 1963; Church of All Nations 1971; West Heidelberg 1974; Approved appointment Community Health Yallourn 1976. Later also Boronia, Dartmoor-Merino, and the Macedonian Church Preston. Lowe was born in 1924, ordained in 1958, and died on 11 November 2013.B & W photograph of Rev and Mrs Norman Lowe, and their son at an unidentified airport.lowe, norman

Norman Lowe's placements: Underbool 1953; Merbein 1955; Wodonga & Bethanga 1960; Immigration chaplain 1961-1962; Carlton & Fitzroy Mission 1963; Church of All Nations 1971; West Heidelberg 1974; Approved appointment Community Health Yallourn 1976. Later also Boronia, Dartmoor-Merino, and the Macedonian Church Preston. Lowe was born in 1924, ordained in 1958, and died on 11 November 2013.B & W photograph of Rev Norman Lowe embracing a man at an unidentified airport.lowe, norman

Lieutenant, later Major Robert Morrison was instrumental in raising the 8/13 Victorian Mounted Rifles Heritage Troop. The Troop consisted of serving soldiers of the regiment as an extracurricular duty and carried out numerous community and official activities including regal and vice-regal escorts.Good study of citizen soldier officer engaged in community activity.Black and white photograph of Light Horse officer on horseback with drawn sabre. He is Lieutenant Robert Morrison 8/13 Victorian Mounted Rifles.Lt Robert Morrison 1 Troop A Sqn 8/13 VMR leading Grand Parade Wodonga Horse Show Jul 1979morrison r major, heritage troop

The 8th Light Horse (Indi) Regiment superseded the 16th Light Horse in 1919. It had its headquarters at Benalla with sub-units throughout the Upper Murray and Northeast Victoria. In December 1941, the regiment converted from horse to mechanised, initially as 8th Reconnaissance Battalion then in July 1942 it became 8th Cavalry Regiment and served in Northern Territory. As Japanese threat to the mainland declined the regiment was disbanded.Citizen soldiers of North East Victoria competing a community event.Black and white photograph of Tallangatta - Wodonga Troop 8th Light Horse competing at Albury Show circa 1939

This is a collection ranging in dates from 1917 to the 1980s. It reflects a range of local and national organisations supported by people in the community. These include local schools such as the Wodonga Central School and Wodonga High School and local sporting clubs including the Wodonga Football Club and the Wodonga Bowling Club. National organisations like Red Cross, the Returned Soldiers' League, Legacy and the CWA are also represented.This collection commemorates a range of local and national organisations supported by community members throughout the 20th century.A collection of 50 different badges to commemorate a range of organisations and events. Included are several ANZAC Day and Legacy badges. Also in the collection are badges for Girl Guides, several sports clubs, Red Cross, Red Triangle Day 1917, the CFA and some church groups.commemorative badges, memorabilia, service organisations

Miss Olive Codling was a Foundation Member and a Life Member of the Wodonga Historical Society. Many of her prize-winning photos are held in the Society Collection, including a series of photos of buildings in High Street (formerly Sydney Road), Wodonga. The CWA Hall officially opened in 1938 having been built on land granted by the Wodonga Council. Wodonga Infant Welfare Centre also occupied part of the building until 1959. Last meeting of the CWA in that hall was in held in December 1983, with the Council resuming ownership of the land to build the current day Post Office. Country Fire Brigade’s new fire station opened in High Street on 31st March 1940. The building comprised an appliance room for housing the fire engine and plant. The floor had been especially treated to enable dancing when the occasion warranted. There was a meeting room, a station-keeper’s bedroom and a repair shop. A shower room and modern kitchen were also included. The Fire station relocated to Smythe and Stanley Street corner which opened in 1977. They have now relocated to Thomas Mitchell Drive, Wodonga.This photo collection is significant as it documents how the businesses and buildings in Wodonga have evolved and contributed to community throughout the 20th century.A series of black and white photos depicting the Fire Station and CWA hall located in High Street, Wodonga C1940 - 1983wodonga businesses, high st wodonga, wodonga fire brigade, wodonga country women's association, cwa wodonga

Miss Olive Codling was a Foundation Member and a Life Member of the Wodonga Historical Society. Many of her prize-winning photos are held in the Society Collection. MATE's WODONGA - T. H. Mate opened his first store in Albury in 1850. The company was sold to Burns Philp in 1946, although they continued trading as Mate’s. Burns Philp policy was to maintain the identity of stores they took over with the same staff and management. The Mate’s store in Wodonga was built by local builders A. B. and M. A. Chick. It was a 3 level development in High Street opposite Woodland Grove. It included a mezzanine eating area. Mate’s closed in 1976 when Burns Philp sold the business to Waltons. In 1987 they became Venture Stores. This building also later became Highpoint and Fosseys which closed in 2000. In 2023 it is the Gateway Health building.This photo collection is significant as it documents how the businesses and buildings in Wodonga have evolved and contributed to community throughout the 20th century.2 black and white images of the Mate's Store in Wodonga. Image 1 shows the completed building. Image 2 shows the store under construction. On image 1: Across the top of the building: "MATE'S" Above the door: "MATE'S A BURNS PHILP STORE" wodonga businesses, high st wodonga, mates wodonga

A collection of replicas of survey maps acquired to build the Wodonga to Tallangatta Railway line. Each survey includes a diagram of a portion of the line showing survey measurements and details of the land which that portion of the line will run through. It also includes the name of the landowner from whom the necessary land was acquired.The first section of the Wodonga to Tallangatta line opened in 1889 and was further extended in 1891. It was a vital community link until the passenger service closed in September 1961. The last regular goods train on the line ran on 21st April 1978. These maps give detail of the surveying and building of the line.victorian railways, wodonga to tallangatta rail service

The Returned Sailors' and Soldiers' Imperial League of Australia was formed in 1916 to support servicemen returning from World War 1. In 1940 its name was changed to Returned Sailors', Soldiers' and Airmen's Imperial League of Australia and again in 1966 to Returned Services League of Australia. Arthur Ernest Beard enlisted in the 10th Battalion in 1914 and was discharged as medically unfit in 1918. His service included three years and 115 days of overseas service. He was gassed during his war service, resulting in ongoing health issues. Beard received an incapacity pension. Despite his ill health, Arthur dedicated many years of service to the committee of the Returned Sailors' and Soldiers' Imperial League of Australia Wodonga branch. At various times he served as President and secretary. He was on the committee when the branch was lobbying for the construction of a Soldiers' Memorial and also a Soldiers' Memorial Hall for Wodonga. Arthur also participated in groups and community activities, including the Wodonga Boys’ Club, Wodonga Public Library Committee and the Wodonga and District Progress Association. Arthur died on 29 Jun 1940 in Wodonga, Victoria, aged 46 years. This certificate is significant as it recognises service to the Wodonga Branch of the RSSILAA coloured certificate on heavy card presented by the Wodonga Branch of the Returned Sailor and Soldiers Imperial League of Australia. It features an archway imprinted with the name of the RSSIL with the League emblem surrounded by the flags of England, Australia and the Royal Australian Navy. It is adorned with an anchor and rifle and the words "Great War 1914 - 1919. An image of Anzac House, the headquarters of the R.S.S.I.L.A. in Melbourne is on the lower left hand side. The words of appreciation are printed in the centre of the archway. The insignia of the Australian Commonwealth Military Forces is in the centre at the bottom. WODONGA BRANCH / Presented to A. BEARD As a token of esteem and in grateful recognition of valuable services rendered as PRESIDENT Year 1922 - 23 A. A. Reid President R. S. Benson Secretaryreturned sailors & soldiers imperial league, wodonga rssila

Arthur Edward Stevenson enlisted on 17 September 1914 and served with the 14th Battalion of the AIF. He was killed in action at Gallipoli on 20 August 1915 at age 28. His personal effects of a belt, hairbrush, knife, postcards and photos were returned to his brother John in June 1916. Later that year, John Stevenson wrote to the Officer in Charge of base records, asking for confirmation of his brother’s death, as he had received a letter from Arthur dated 27 August 1915, seven days later than the date on which he was reportedly killed. The Army confirmed that Arthur had in fact died, and concluded that he had likely misdated his letter. In 1920, Arthur’s sister Rachel wrote to the Department of Defence, asking whether her brother’s grave had been located and again querying the date of his death. Later, she completed a form that was sent to next of kin seeking information on deceased soldiers for the Australian War Memorial’s Roll of Honour. Arthur Stevenson’s death is recorded at the Lone Pine Memorial on the Gallipoli Peninsula. Honour Certificates WW1 - From 1915 onwards, recruits in many shires and towns in eastern Australia were honoured by local government authorities. A common form of recognition was the award of honour certificates. The first honour certificates were presented in 1915 and 1916 to men who had yet to leave Australia. The designers and publishing companies solicited business directly from councils. Publishers began to print two different types of certificates: honour certificates to thank soldiers who had survived and memorial certificates to commemorate the dead. D.W. Paterson, a Melbourne publishing firm, claimed they had supplied certificates to over 150 cities and shires in Victoria and New South Wales, including the Shire of Wodonga. Paterson also had the widest range of designs The certificate signified that the officials of the community recognised and shared the family's pride and grief. The certificate was signed by S. T Parker, Shire President and R. H. Murphy, Council Secretary on 4th August 1919.This certificate is significant as it recognises service given to Australia by Arthur Edward Stevenson. Coloured certificate presented to the family of Arthur Ernest Stevenson by Wodonga Shire Council. The certificate is mounted behind glass in a wooden frame.gallipoli, world war 1, arthur edward stevenson

A small booklet of 70 pages including photos, interviews and text outlining the history of "Age Concern Albury Wodonga.non-fictionThis book outlines the history and development of "Age Concern Albury Wodonga Inc." a not for profit organisation that operates in the Albury Wodonga area with some services provided operating across The Riverina Murray region. It provides services and social activities for frail aged people or people with disabilities and their carers. The objective of Age Concern is to lessen the mental and physical stress of growing older by advocating preparation and education of people approaching retirement as well as encouraging the provision of services within the community designed to improve the physical, mental and social well being of the aged.aged concern albury wodonga, aged care, aged care services albury wodonga

A publication by the CFA giving detailed information, images, maps and photographs about the bush fires which blazed across Victoria and southern New South Wales from November 2019 until brought under control in February 2020.non-fictionThe 2019 - 2020 fire season, which became known as "Black SUmmer" was long and difficult for the CFA, emergency services and communities across the eastern seaboard of Australia, especially in northeastern and eastern Victoria. By its conclusion more than 8,200 CFA volunteers had contributed to the fire response in Victoria and another 2,288 CFA volunteers had been deployed interstate. THe bushfires burned 1.5 million hectares, destroyed more than 400 homes, 6,800 livestock and thousands of native animals. Tragically 5 people also lost their lives. The fires took their toll physically and psychologically.This book provides an insight into the challenges faced by so many in their efforts to protect communities and was produced as part of the recovery process from this horrific event.black summer bushfires, cfa volunteers, bushfires australia

Mr George Awburn Jr. arrived in Wodonga West with his parents by bullock dray when he was aged six years old. As a young man he went to Melbourne where he worked with the Melbourne Tramway and Omnibus Company. He drove the first through tram from Abbotsford to Balaclava. On he return to Wodonga, Mr. Awburn opened a bakery and grocery business in Sydney St., Wodonga which he conducted up till the time of his death in 1946. He was active in community affairs in roles including being a foundation member of the Library Committee, a committeeman of the Town Band and football club, a member of the Hibernian Lodge and an ardent worker for the Roman Catholic Church. Johnson Bros. was founded by two brothers named Alfred and Frederick who purchased a pottery factory in Hanley, England, in 1883. They were grandsons of a renowned English potter, Alfred Meakin. They were later joined in the business by their brothers Henry and Robert. Their business grew rapidly, as they were one of the world's largest pottery factories by the turn of the 20th century. By 1970, Johnson Bros. obtained the Royal Charter to become the official provider of china for Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II. More than 1,300 patterns have been created throughout Johnson Brothers' history. Due to their growing success, manufacturing plants were established overseas including the establishment of a tableware factory, Johnson Brothers Australia in 1957 in Croydon, Victoria operated through a company known as Sovereign Pottery Ltd. Due to rising competition, Johnson Brothers became part of the Wedgewood Group in 1968. In 2015, following the acquisition of Wedgewood by Finnish company Fiskars, the Johnson Brothers branding was discontinued. The trademark on this bowl was used by Johnson Brothers between 1913 and 1942.This item originates from a well-known and respected Wodonga business.A round china plate imprinted with business name of G. Awburn Wodonga and Johnson Brothers on the back of the plate.On front: G. Awburn Caterer Wodonga On back: Hotelware / Johnson Bros/ Englandawburn family, wodonga businesses

A publication relating the history of mining at Bethanga in Northeast Victoria, the miners and semi-itinerant workers, who came to the area in the 1870s in search of a fortune and the community they created. Thus publication of 222 pages includes text, images, maps and a detailed index.non-fictionThe town of Bethanga is located in the mountainous north-east of Victoria, near the Murray River. In the 1870s miners and itinerant workers came to the area to seek their fortunes.This history of Bethanga, covering the period from 1875 to 1912, tells the story of these people and the community they created. gold mining bethanga, miners victoria, history of bethanga

Wodonga Football Club’s first recorded match was against the Albury Football Club on Saturday, 6 July 1878 in Wodonga. Between 1878 and 1891, Wodonga played many intermittent friendly matches against other local clubs and towns, before organised fixtures and competitions were starting to be arranged from the early 1890s In 1899, the Wodonga Football Club "Starlights" Junior Club was formed and adopted the Club colours of blue, black and a white star. In 1903, 1904 and 1905, the Wodonga Football Club "Shamrocks" entered a team in the local Federal Junior Football Association. In April 1906, the Wodonga Football Club "Shamrocks" met and decided to become a Senior team and be known as just the Wodonga FC The Club, currently a member of the Ovens and Murray Football League, has participated in a variety of local leagues and competition since then, apart from the years of the First and Second World Wars when they went into recess. The support the club has shown to its members was evidenced around 1949, when the Wodonga FC set up a Provident Fund for injured players to be compensated if they were not able to work for a length of time. In 1981, Wodonga achieved the rare feat of winning football Premierships in the Firsts, Seconds and Thirds. No other team has done this. The club has played in the finals 33 of the 74 years, winning seven senior premiership flags. Austico Apparel began as the Australian Tie Company in 1915; a specialty manufacturer of men's ties and accessories.Wodonga Football Club was first established in 1878 and has played an important role in the community since that time. It has been successful not only on the sporting field, but has provided support and social connection to its members and their families. Several of its players have gone on to perform to at an elite standard in higher levels of competition.Maroon tie with white embroidered bulldog in the centre.Beneath bulldog logo: WODONGAwodonga football club, sport and recreation, football wodonga

The Wodonga line and train station opened in November 1873 when the section of the line from Wangaratta was completed. The expansion of the railways to the northeast of Victoria occurred after the Victorian Government took over the railways in 1867 and the trains serviced large towns such as Seymour, Wangaratta and Wodonga, as well as smaller towns along the way. The first section of the Wodonga to Tallangatta line opened in 1889 and was further extended in 1891. It was a vital community link until the passenger service closed in September 1961 The last regular goods train on the line ran on 21st April 1978. The north- east train line to Wodonga remained a significant factor in the development of Wodonga as a rural city in the 20th century. Local significance due to the importance of the railways to Wodonga as a means of transport, communication and impact on business and commerce. State and national significance due to the role played by the railways in opening up the country for development.A bound volume of the Victorian Railways Time Table for 2nd May 1910 to 30th November 1910. Black with gold inscription. The binding is not original but was carried out to preserve the contents"Victorian Railways/Time Table/ 2nd May 1910/ 30th November 1910"victorian railways, wodonga, timetable, transport