Around March to April 1994, the Arthritis Foundation of Victoria (AFV) opened a second oppportunity shop in Moonee Ponds. A woman impersonating satirist Barry Humphries' most well known character, Dame Edna Everage, was the special guest at the opening of the new op shop. To promote the opening, she handed out Dame Edna's signature flowers, long-stemmed gladioli, to passers-by at the shopping strip in Puckle St, Moonee Ponds. In this photo, a Photographer is directs the 'Dame Edna' impersonator and a parking inspector on how he wants to set up the next shot.COL photo of three people standing in an alcove outside some shops. In the centre is a woman. She is wearing a royal blue evening dress, with two beaded necklaces around her neck and a pair of red novelty glasses in the shape of two swans. She is holding several long-stemmed gladioli flowers in one hand, and a single gladioli stem in her other hand. To the right of the frame, there is a man wearing a traffic inspector's uniform with some bright pink novelty glasses. He is holding a pen, which is poised over a pad of paper. To the left of the frame, there is a man wearing a black shirt and black trousers. He is holding a camera in one hand, and pointing to the other two people with his other hand.arthritis foundation of victoria, afv, opportunity shop, op shop, charity shop, thrift store, fundraising, opening, launch, dame edna everage, impersonator, gladioli, parking inspector, parking fine, photographer, camera, alcove, puckle street, moonee ponds, 1994

Around March to April 1994, the Arthritis Foundation of Victoria (AFV) opened a second oppportunity shop in Moonee Ponds. A woman impersonating satirist Barry Humphries' most well known character, Dame Edna Everage, was the star attraction at the opening. In this photo, she is posing for a photo with two AFV members and/or volunteers.B&W photo of three women inside a shop. The woman in the centre is dressed in a long evening gown, a long beaded necklace and novelty sunglasses in the shape of two swans. She is flanked by two other women who are dressed in contemporary day dresses in printed fabrics. The two women are each holding a flowering gladioli stem. In the background, there is a lace-edge valance hanging across the ceiling.arthritis foundation of victoria, afv, opportunity shop, op shop, charity shop, thrift store, fundraising, opening, launch, dame edna everage, impersonator, gladioli, members, volunteers, moonee ponds, 1994

Around March to April 1994, the Arthritis Foundation of Victoria (AFV) opened a second oppportunity shop in Moonee Ponds. A woman impersonating satirist Barry Humphries' most well known character, Dame Edna Everage, was the special guest at the opening of the new op shop. In this photo, she is posing for a photo with some of the second-hand fashions that are available for sale.B&W photo of a woman holding up some clothes on hangers inside a shop. She is wearing a long evening gown, a long beaded necklace and novelty sunglasses in the shape of two swans. Behind her are some racks of clothes.arthritis foundation of victoria, afv, opportunity shop, op shop, charity shop, thrift store, fundraising, opening, launch, dame edna everage, impersonator, second-hand clothing, second-hand clothes, moonee ponds, 1994

Edward (Edmund) de Lacy Evans was really Ellen Tremaye; and in 1856 she married her fellow passenger on her voyage to Australia, Mary Delahunty; under the assumed name of EDMUND De Lacy. In 1859 he/she married Sarah Moore. They were married for eight years when in 1867 she died in childbirth. In 1868 after Sarah had died; Ellen, now known as EDWARD de Lacy Evans married Julia Mary Marquand in Ballarat. From the Melbourne Argus Friday 5th Sept 1879, Page 7 THE EXTRAORDINARY PERSONATION CASE. [BY ELECTRIC TELEGRAPH. FROM OUR OWN CORRESPONDENT.) SANDHURST, THURSDAY. The De Lacy Evans case has created great excitement here. The man-woman having resided in the district for about 20 years, was well known amongst the miners, but no one appeared ever to have supposed that she was other than as she represented herself to be, and the discovery of her sex has caused the greatest astonishment. The police have not yet moved in the matter of the discovery of her antecedents, but from the result of inquiries I have made, there seems to be no room to doubt that the woman is identical with the girl Ellen Tremaye, referred to in yesterday's telegram as having arrived at Melbourne by the ship Ocean Monarch in June, 1857. The nurse at the hospital, Mrs. Holt, is positive she is the same, and says the opinion was held amongst those on board the vessel that Tremaye had been well connected, and that she had left home in consequence of some misconduct. The Ocean Monarch was an immigrant vessel, and on the voyage Tremaye and another young woman, named Rose Kelly, were very intimate, but the latter, being seized with a dangerous illness, was left at Rio Janiero. Mrs. Evans, the wife of the supposed man, states that she frequently heard Evans say that she came out by the Ocean Monarch. But the most satisfactory information of Evans' previous history yet received has been obtained from a Mrs. Thompson, a charwoman at Myers' Creek, who was also a shipmate of the girl Tremaye. At the time she made the voyage she was unmarried, and was accompanied by Miss Mary Ann Delahunty, a young lady who was very well connected, and who came from the same village as herself, named Monakine, on the north bank of the river Suir, in Kilkenny. Miss Delahunty was an orphan and brought with her about £900. After Rose Kelly was taken ill, Tremaye resorted to Miss Delahunty's berth, and the passengers appeared to think there was something strange about the manner in which Tremaye conducted herself, and she had been observed to wear a man's under-clothing. Upon the arrival of the ship in Hobson's Bay, Tremaye declared herself to be a man, and told Mrs. Thompson she intended to marry Miss Delahunty. The next Mrs. Thompson saw of Ellen Tremaye was at Peg-leg Gully, Eaglehawk. Tremaye had just established herself in a house there under the name of Edward de Lacy Evans, and Mrs. Thompson went to serve them with milk. When she went to the house, she saw Evans sitting inside dressed in male attire, and immediately recognised him as her fellow passenger, Ellen Tremaye. Evans had, at this time, married his second wife, Miss Moore, who was then present. Evans re-marked to her—"I think I know you." To which Mrs. Thompson replied—"I know you, too," and added something to the effect that Ellen (referring to Tremaye) was a queer girl." Oh, said Evans, evidently anxious that his then wife should not understand Mrs. Thompson's reference, "It's a good job she is gone back to the old country." Mrs. Thompson inquired as to what had become of Miss Delahunty, and Evans replied, "Oh, my poor wife and boy both died of consumption, and are buried in the North Melbourne cemetery. " In reply to an inquiry as to what had been done with her (Delahunty's) money, Evans said she had sent it home to a nunnery. Evans's then wife had been absent during a portion of this conversation, but at this point she returned, and Evans went outside to the milkwoman, and said, "For your life don't mention my dead wife's name ; call me Mr. Evans. This missus of mine is death on the Roman Catholics, and she can't bear to hear my dead wife's name mentioned." This conversation took place about 12 or 14 years ago, and Mrs. Thompson seems to have quite believed that Evans had personated a woman under the name of Ellen Tremaye on the voyage out and was really a man. She lost sight of Evans soon afterwards, and took no further notice of the affair.Copy of a newspaper article titled The Impersonator of Peg-leg Gully, The Woman of Many Wives by J P Quaine. Article mentions Edward De Lacy Evans who successfully impersonated a male and was married at least three times. After a head injury Evans was admitted to the Bendigo Hospital as a lunatic and remained for some weeks without arousing any suspicions. The secret was discovered when transferred to a Melbourne Institution. After improvement she returned to the Bendigo Hospital until she was well enough to leave the colony.bendigo, the long gully history group - the impersonator of peg-leg gully, j p quaine, edward de lacey evans, monarch of the ocean, bendigo hospital, ellen tremaye, sarah moore, julia mary marquand, mary delahunty, de lacy evans, de lacy, edward de lacy evans, edmund de lacy

Around March to April 1994, the Arthritis Foundation of Victoria (AFV) opened a second oppportunity shop in Moonee Ponds. This photo depicts a woman dressed as satirist Barry Humphries' most well known character, Dame Edna Everage. The 'Dame Edna' impersonator was the special guest at the opening of the new op shop. To promote the opening, she handed out Dame Edna's signature flowers, long-stemmed gladioli, to passers-by at the shopping strip in Puckle St, Moonee Ponds.B&W photo of a woman and a man at a suburban shopping strip. They are walking along the footpath towards one another. She is dressed in a long evening gown and is carrying a bunch of long-stemmed flowers, the top of which are resting over one shoulder. He is dressed in a shirt and trousers, and is looking down at the single long-stem of flowers that he is carrying. Hanging from the overhead veranda ceiling above are a sign and a banner. The sign (partially obscured) says, "...H CONVERTERS". The banner says, "CA$H CONVERTERS NEW DRIVE THRU BUYING CENTRE REAR LANE EASY ACCESS". There is a narrow laneway (partially obscured) beside the building.arthritis foundation of victoria, afv, opportunity shop, op shop, charity shop, thrift store, fundraising, opening, launch, dame edna everage, impersonator, gladioli, puckle street, moonee ponds, 1994

Around March to April 1994, the Arthritis Foundation of Victoria (AFV) opened a second oppportunity shop in Moonee Ponds. A woman impersonating satirist Barry Humphries' most well known character, Dame Edna Everage, was the special guest at the opening of the new op shop. To promote the opening, she handed out Dame Edna's signature flowers, long-stemmed gladioli, to passers-by at the shopping strip in Puckle St, Moonee Ponds. In this photo, she hands a flowering gladioli stem to a passing shopper.B&W photo of two woman at a suburban shopping strip. One woman is wearing a long evening gown, a long beaded necklace and novelty sunglasses in the shape of two swans. She is carrying a bunch of long-stemmed gladioli flowers. The other woman is dressed in dark coloured t-shirt, trousers, and shoes. They are standing in front of a bookshop. There are numerous posters throughout the shop and in the shop window with the text, "RECORD BREAKING PRICES RECORD BREAKERS RECORD BREAKING SAVINGS".arthritis foundation of victoria, afv, opportunity shop, op shop, charity shop, thrift store, fundraising, opening, launch, dame edna everage, impersonator, gladioli, shopper, puckle street, moonee ponds, 1994

Around March to April 1994, the Arthritis Foundation of Victoria (AFV) opened a second oppportunity shop in Moonee Ponds. A woman impersonating satirist Barry Humphries' most well known character, Dame Edna Everage, was the special guest at the opening of the new op shop. To promote the opening, she handed out Dame Edna's signature flowers, long-stemmed gladioli, to passers-by at the shopping strip in Puckle St, Moonee Ponds. In this photo, 'Dame Edna' is surrounded by a few passers by.COL photo of several people at a suburban shopping strip. To the right of the frame is a woman. She is wearing a royal blue evening dress, a wig, beaded necklaces, and red novelty glasses. There is someone walking behind her, in the opposite direction. To the left of the frame, there are two men are talking to one another. In the foreground, in the centre of the frame, a person with a black shoulderbag on their shoulder is walking past. Behind her, another person (completely obscured) is carrying a bunch of long flowering gladioli stems. There are a few men standing or walking past. One of them is holding a flowering gladioli stem. In the background, several retail shops (such as Ferguson Plarre Bakehouses and Speeds Shoes) are evident across the street.arthritis foundation of victoria, afv, opportunity shop, op shop, charity shop, thrift store, fundraising, opening, launch, dame edna everage, impersonator, gladioli, shoppers, puckle street, moonee ponds, 1994

Printed in the late 1880s, the postcard features a photograph of Charles Sherwood Stratton (professionally known as General Tom Thumb) and his wife, Lavinia Warren Stratton. Accompanying this image are a pair of black calf boots. Charles Sherwood Stratton and Lavinia Warren Stratton were American performers who traveled with the Barnum & Bailey Circus, founded by Phineas Taylor (P. T.) Barnum. They each participated in various acts including singing, dancing, miming, and celebrity impersonations. Both Charles and Lavinia gained international fame for their successful careers and small physical stature. Charles and Lavinia performed in Australia in August 1870. The duo were joined by their touring party as part of the Barnum & Bailey Circus "Round the World" tour. They performed at three evening events and two matinees in Beechworth during this time. Charles, Lavinia, P. T. Barnum and the circus inspired the musical drama film, "The Greatest Showman" (2017).The postcard is historically significant due to Charles Sherwood Stratton's status as an internationally renowned performer. It also provides insight into the arts in Victoria during the late nineteenth century, illustrating the type of entertainment that was enjoyed by the public during this time.Black and white rectangular postcard printed on card.Obverse: A pair of General Tom Thumb's boots presented to / the town of Beechworth, where he and three other / dwarfs gave 3 night & 2 matinee performances 1870 / General Tom Thumb toured Europe as the star of / Barnum's famous circus giving impersonation acts / He was a great favourite of Queen Victoria / He was then 34 years old and 31 inches high / His wife was 34 inches / Reverse: 3706 / POST / CARD / KODA / CORRESPONDENCE / ADDRESS ONLY / KODAK / KODAK / A02450 /entertainment album, general tom thumb, charles sherwood stratton, lavinia stratton, circus, p.t. barnum, barnum and bailey circus, arts, performance, recreation, entertainment

Around March to April 1994, the Arthritis Foundation of Victoria (AFV) opened a second oppportunity shop in Moonee Ponds. A woman impersonating satirist Barry Humphries' most well known character, Dame Edna Everage, was the special guest at the opening of the new op shop. To promote the opening, she handed out Dame Edna's signature flowers, long-stemmed gladioli, to passers-by at the shopping strip in Puckle St, Moonee Ponds. In this photo, she poses for a photo with two assistants, who are each carrying a large bunch of flowering gladioli stems.B&W medium close up photo of three women at a suburban shopping strip. The woman in the centre is wearing a long evening gown, a long beaded necklace and novelty sunglasses in the shape of two swans. She is carrying two long-stems of gladioli flowers, which is holding crossed in an x-formation across her chest. The other two women, standing on either side of her, are dressed in contemporary clothes - one is wearing a jacket. They are both wearing novelty glasses in the shape of two birds. They are each carrying a large bunch of long-stemmed gladioli flowers. All three women are laughing.arthritis foundation of victoria, afv, opportunity shop, op shop, charity shop, thrift store, fundraising, opening, launch, dame edna everage, impersonator, gladioli, assistants, puckle street, moonee ponds, 1994

Around March to April 1994, the Arthritis Foundation of Victoria (AFV) opened a second oppportunity shop in Moonee Ponds. A woman impersonating satirist Barry Humphries' most well known character, Dame Edna Everage, was the special guest at the opening of the new op shop. To promote the opening, she handed out Dame Edna's signature flowers, long-stemmed gladioli, to passers-by at the shopping strip in Puckle St, Moonee Ponds. In this photo, she hands a long-stemmed gladioli to a parking infringement officer who is about to write out a parking ticket.B&W photo of a woman and a man at a suburban shopping strip. She is wearing a long evening gown and is carrying a bunch of long-stemmed flowers. He is wearing a parking inspector's uniform and is holding a pen poised over a pad of paper. Several shop signs are hanging from the verandah ceiling above them, including "absolute", "ANGUS & ROBERTSON", and "Jetset Travel". In the distance, there are several people walking along the footpath.arthritis foundation of victoria, afv, opportunity shop, op shop, charity shop, thrift store, fundraising, opening, launch, dame edna everage, impersonator, gladioli, parking inspector, parking fine, puckle street, moonee ponds, 1994

Edward (Edmund) de Lacy Evans was really Ellen Tremaye; and in 1856 she married her fellow passenger on her voyage to Australia, Mary Delahunty; under the assumed name of EDMUND De Lacy. In 1859 he/she married Sarah Moore. They were married for eight years when in 1867 she died in childbirth. In 1868 after Sarah had died; Ellen, now known as EDWARD de Lacy Evans married Julia Mary Marquand in Ballarat. From the Melbourne Argus Friday 5th Sept 1879, Page 7 THE EXTRAORDINARY PERSONATION CASE. [BY ELECTRIC TELEGRAPH. FROM OUR OWN CORRESPONDENT.) SANDHURST, THURSDAY. The De Lacy Evans case has created great excitement here. The man-woman having resided in the district for about 20 years, was well known amongst the miners, but no one appeared ever to have supposed that she was other than as she represented herself to be, and the discovery of her sex has caused the greatest astonishment. The police have not yet moved in the matter of the discovery of her antecedents, but from the result of inquiries I have made, there seems to be no room to doubt that the woman is identical with the girl Ellen Tremaye, referred to in yesterday's telegram as having arrived at Melbourne by the ship Ocean Monarch in June, 1857. The nurse at the hospital, Mrs. Holt, is positive she is the same, and says the opinion was held amongst those on board the vessel that Tremaye had been well connected, and that she had left home in consequence of some misconduct. The Ocean Monarch was an immigrant vessel, and on the voyage Tremaye and another young woman, named Rose Kelly, were very intimate, but the latter, being seized with a dangerous illness, was left at Rio Janiero. Mrs. Evans, the wife of the supposed man, states that she frequently heard Evans say that she came out by the Ocean Monarch. But the most satisfactory information of Evans' previous history yet received has been obtained from a Mrs. Thompson, a charwoman at Myers' Creek, who was also a shipmate of the girl Tremaye. At the time she made the voyage she was unmarried, and was accompanied by Miss Mary Ann Delahunty, a young lady who was very well connected, and who came from the same village as herself, named Monakine, on the north bank of the river Suir, in Kilkenny. Miss Delahunty was an orphan and brought with her about £900. After Rose Kelly was taken ill, Tremaye resorted to Miss Delahunty's berth, and the passengers appeared to think there was something strange about the manner in which Tremaye conducted herself, and she had been observed to wear a man's under-clothing. Upon the arrival of the ship in Hobson's Bay, Tremaye declared herself to be a man, and told Mrs. Thompson she intended to marry Miss Delahunty. The next Mrs. Thompson saw of Ellen Tremaye was at Peg-leg Gully, Eaglehawk. Tremaye had just established herself in a house there under the name of Edward de Lacy Evans, and Mrs. Thompson went to serve them with milk. When she went to the house, she saw Evans sitting inside dressed in male attire, and immediately recognised him as her fellow passenger, Ellen Tremaye. Evans had, at this time, married his second wife, Miss Moore, who was then present. Evans re-marked to her—"I think I know you." To which Mrs. Thompson replied—"I know you, too," and added something to the effect that Ellen (referring to Tremaye) was a queer girl." Oh, said Evans, evidently anxious that his then wife should not understand Mrs. Thompson's reference, "It's a good job she is gone back to the old country." Mrs. Thompson inquired as to what had become of Miss Delahunty, and Evans replied, "Oh, my poor wife and boy both died of consumption, and are buried in the North Melbourne cemetery. " In reply to an inquiry as to what had been done with her (Delahunty's) money, Evans said she had sent it home to a nunnery. Evans's then wife had been absent during a portion of this conversation, but at this point she returned, and Evans went outside to the milkwoman, and said, "For your life don't mention my dead wife's name ; call me Mr. Evans. This missus of mine is death on the Roman Catholics, and she can't bear to hear my dead wife's name mentioned." This conversation took place about 12 or 14 years ago, and Mrs. Thompson seems to have quite believed that Evans had personated a woman under the name of Ellen Tremaye on the voyage out and was really a man. She lost sight of Evans soon afterwards, and took no further notice of the affair.With a card (for exhibition??) entitled '' The only known photograph of the enigmatical De Lacy Evans who for many years impersonated a man and was by occupation a gold miner''. Date 1877 (1880 crossed out). On the reverse side is the name N. White photographer Mitchell St Sandhurst, Opposite St. Paul's Tower.N W White, Mitchell St, Sandhurstperson, individual, male impersonater., ellen tremaye, sarah moore, julia mary marquand, mary delahunty, de lacy evans, de lacy, edward de lacy evans, edmund de lacy

Around March to April 1994, the Arthritis Foundation of Victoria (AFV) opened a second oppportunity shop in Moonee Ponds. This photo depicts a woman dressed as satirist Barry Humphries' most well known character, Dame Edna Everage. The 'Dame Edna' impersonator was the special guest at the opening of the new op shop. To promote the opening, she handed out Dame Edna's signature flowers, long-stemmed gladioli, to passers-by at the shopping strip in Puckle St, Moonee Ponds. In this photo, she is handing a flowering gladioli stem to a parking inspector, who is about to write out a parking ticket. They are standing in front of a brick wall, in what appears to be an alcove. A Photographer, (partially obscured) is taking their photo.COL photo of a man and a woman. The woman is wearing a royal blue evening dress, with two beaded necklaces around her neck. She is holding several long-stemmed gladioli flowers in one hand as she hands one to the man. He is wearing a traffic inspector's uniform, with some bright pink-framed glasses. He is holding a pen, which is poised over a pad of paper. In the foreground, to the right of the frame, a man wearing a black shirt (partially obscured) is holding one hand up near his face.arthritis foundation of victoria, afv, opportunity shop, op shop, charity shop, thrift store, fundraising, opening, launch, dame edna everage, impersonator, gladioli, parking inspector, parking fine, photographer, alcove, puckle street, moonee ponds, 1994

Walter Forbes VX953 AASC 6th Div AIF. Refer 1101, 1103.44, 1106. Brown cardboard piece with the following pasted on. Colour postcard cartoon featuring a soldier on a camel . B&W Cartoon of a soldier on a motorbike. Newspaper clip re A.I.F Liberated P.O.W's from Germany, includes W.FORBES. Small B&W inset paper photo of W.FORBES. Newspaper clip re "Roy Rene" (Mo) who is impersonated by W.Forbes in the P.O.W Camp in Germany.documents - newspapers, military history - army, forbes, pow

Around March to April 1994, the Arthritis Foundation of Victoria (AFV) opened a second oppportunity shop in Moonee Ponds. A woman impersonating satirist Barry Humphries' most well known character, Dame Edna Everage, was the special guest at the opening of the new op shop. To promote the opening, she handed out Dame Edna's signature flowers, long-stemmed gladioli, to passers-by at the shopping strip in Puckle St, Moonee Ponds. In this photo, she hands a small child a long gladioli stem while the child's father looks on. A cropped black and white version of this photo appears on page 10 of the 1994 Annual Report with the caption: The Arthritis Op Shop was opened in Moonee Ponds during Arthritis Week. Shown here "Dame Edna" welcomes visitors on the 1st day with gifts of gladioli. Already 20 volunteers are helping at the shop. Shops co-ordinator Mrs Margaret Scott hopes the Moonee Ponds Shop will soon be running as well as the very successful op shop in High Street, Malvern, which annually raises almost $50,000.COL photo of a woman handing a long flowering gladioli stem to a small child, while a man looks on. They are on the footpath outside a shop or business premises. The woman is wearing a royal blue evening dress, a wig, beaded necklaces, and red novelty glasses. She is bending forward towards the child. The child is wearing a grey and white striped t-shirt and a denim skirt. She is looking up at the woman as she grasps the long flower stem. The man is wearing a red t-shirt, black shorts, and runners. He is crouching down beside the child.arthritis foundation of victoria, afv, opportunity shop, op shop, charity shop, thrift store, fundraising, opening, launch, dame edna everage, impersonator, gladioli, child, toddler, father and child, puckle street, moonee ponds, 1994

Around March to April 1994, the Arthritis Foundation of Victoria (AFV) opened a second oppportunity shop in Moonee Ponds. A woman impersonating satirist Barry Humphries' most well known character, Dame Edna Everage, was the star attraction at the opening. In this photo, a member volunteer assists customers with their purchases.B&W photo of several people inside a shop. In the foreground, one woman is standing behind a counter. She is holding a plastic bag. On the other side of the counter, there are two women standing (partially obscured). Another person, with their back to the camera, is reaching for something on a shelf along the wall. In the foreground, to the left of the frame, there is a large bouquet of flowering gladioli stems in a vase on the countertop. The photo has been taken from behind the counter, at a low angle.arthritis foundation of victoria, afv, opportunity shop, op shop, charity shop, thrift store, fundraising, opening, launch, gladioli, flowers, bouquet, members, volunteers, customers, moonee ponds, 1994

A series of handbills produced to advertise upcoming concerts for the Blind Variety Entertainers, who toured around the state raising funds for the Association for the Advancement of the Blind. Combining comedy, songs, impersonations, acrobatics and musical interludes, these performers toured annually and visited various regional towns across the state of Victoria.1 rectangular white handbill with red and blue text with blue illustrationFriday January 23 Association for the Advancement of the Blind and Home for Adult Blind, Brighton Beach Presents The Blind Variety Entertainers The Most Popular Company now on tour A Unique Combination of Comedy and Classics It's a Show you cannot afford to miss Box Planassociation for the blind, marketing

Around March to April 1994, the Arthritis Foundation of Victoria (AFV) opened a second oppportunity shop in Moonee Ponds. A woman impersonating satirist Barry Humphries' most well known character, Dame Edna Everage, was the star attraction at the opening. This photo depicts two women inside the shop at the opening.B&W photo of four people inside and outside some shops. In the foreground, two women are in one shop, looking down towards some items. To the left of the women, there is a large gladioli flower arrangement (partially obscured). In the background, to the right of the frame, a man and a woman are standing nearby. They appear to be outside the shop window, looking in. There is another shopfront window evident behind them. The woman is holding a sandwich or burger in one hand.arthritis foundation of victoria, afv, opportunity shop, op shop, charity shop, thrift store, fundraising, opening, launch, gladioli, flowers, bouquet, members, volunteers, customers, moonee ponds, 1994

Around March to April 1994, the Arthritis Foundation of Victoria (AFV) opened a second oppportunity shop in Moonee Ponds. A woman impersonating satirist Barry Humphries' most well known character, Dame Edna Everage, was the star attraction at the opening. This photo is a wide view of customers perusing the clothing racks and other wares.B&W photo of several people inside a shop. There are multiple racks of clothes hanging on coathangers. To the right of the frame, there is some shelving against the wall containing some folded clothing and a display mannequin head showcasing a hat and wig. To the left of the frame, there is a large bouquet of gladioli flowers in a large vase on a countertop. In the background, there is a lace-edged valance across the top of a wooden rail hanging from the ceiling. The photo has been taken from a high angle, above floor level.arthritis foundation of victoria, afv, opportunity shop, op shop, charity shop, thrift store, fundraising, opening, launch, gladioli, flowers, bouquet, members, volunteers, customers, moonee ponds, 1994

Around March to April 1994, the Arthritis Foundation of Victoria (AFV) opened a second oppportunity shop in Moonee Ponds. A woman impersonating satirist Barry Humphries' most well known character, Dame Edna Everage, was the star attraction at the opening. In this photo, Shops Co-ordinator, Margaret Scott, is holding a bouquet of flowers at the opening.B&W medium close-up photo of a woman holding a bouquet of flowers. Beside her stands another woman (partially obscured). On the counter in front of her is a large bouquet of flowering gladioli stems in a vase, a small portable television set, and various other items. One of these is a small box or container, on which there is some handwritten text. The heading of the text is "ARTHRITIS OP SHOPS!!", beneath which there is the Arthritis Foundation of Victoria logo and some more text. On the wall behind them, there are some posters and a 'No Smoking' sign.arthritis foundation of victoria, afv, opportunity shop, op shop, charity shop, thrift store, fundraising, opening, launch, gladioli, flowers, bouquet, margaret scott, shops coordinator, members, volunteers, customers, moonee ponds, 1994

Around March to April 1994, the Arthritis Foundation of Victoria (AFV) opened a second oppportunity shop in Moonee Ponds. A woman impersonating satirist Barry Humphries' most well known character, Dame Edna Everage, was the star attraction at the opening. In this photo, an AFV member volunteer holds up a print or painting for two customers to look at.B&W photo of two people looking at a framed painting or print, which someone (partially obscured) is holding up. The person holding the picture is standing behind a counter. There are various items on the countertop, such as a small portable television set, a book, a miniature set of drawers, a large arrangement of long-stemmed gladioli flowers, three glasses of wine, and a brochure. In the foreground, to the left of the frame, there are several small baskets of miscellaneous items on top of a table or countertop (obscured). There are two identical posters on the wall behind the counter. The title of the posters is, "Step out for strong bones".arthritis foundation of victoria, afv, opportunity shop, op shop, charity shop, thrift store, fundraising, opening, launch, gladioli, flowers, bouquet, members, volunteers, customers, painting, framed print, framed picture, moonee ponds, 1994

Around March to April 1994, the Arthritis Foundation of Victoria (AFV) opened a second oppportunity shop in Moonee Ponds. A woman impersonating satirist Barry Humphries' most well known character, Dame Edna Everage, was the star attraction at the opening. In this photo, Shops Co-ordinator, Margaret Scott, is serving a customer while others queue up near the counter with their purchases.B&W photo of several women inside a shop. One woman, who is standing behind a counter, is handing over a plastic bag to another woman. Behind them, there is another woman either sitting down or leaning on the other side of the counter. To the right of the frame, there are three other women standing near the counter. One of them (partially obscurred) appears to be talking to the woman who is sitting/leaning on the counter. The other two women (one partially obscurred) appear to be waiting to be served. There is a large bouquet of flowering gladioli stems in a large vase on the counter.arthritis foundation of victoria, afv, opportunity shop, op shop, charity shop, thrift store, fundraising, opening, launch, gladioli, flowers, margaret scott, shops coordinator, members, volunteers, customers, moonee ponds, 1994

A regular event for the widows was a concert by the Police Band at the Melbourne Town Hall. Held in March each year, it was originally at the Fitzroy Gardens but moved to the Town Hall in 1995. The photos show the widows enjoying the music and performers, including an Elvis impersonator (Brian Carbery) and singer Constable Julie Leder. Widow Elsie Longstaff is in a photo with Music Director, Inspector Mike Pyne.A record of regular events for widows to attend and enjoy together.Colour photo x 14 of a Police band concert at the Melbourne Town Hall in 1995 and an article in the Answer.widows, answer, concert, police band

Taken in the late 1800s, depicted is a portrait of Charles Sherwood Stratton (professionally known as General Tom Thumb). He is dressed in a formal suit. Charles Sherwood Stratton was an American performer who traveled with the Barnum & Bailey Circus. The show was founded by Phineas Taylor (P. T.) Barnum in 1871. Charles participated in various acts including singing, dancing, miming, and celebrity impersonations. He gained international fame for his successful career and small physical stature. Charles performed in Australia in August 1870. He was joined by his touring party as part of the Barnum & Bailey Circus "Round the World" tour. The "Australian Tom Thumb", real name John David Armstrong, made his "audaciously competitive" stage debut alongside Charles when the circus performed at the Prahran Popular Entertainments in Melbourne. Charles, P. T. Barnum and the circus inspired the popular musical drama film, "The Greatest Showman" (2017).The photograph is historically significant due to Stratton's status and legacy as an internationally renowned performer. Furthermore, the record relates to the history of performance in Victoria during the late nineteenth century. It illustrates the type of entertainment that was enjoyed by the public during this time. Black and white rectangular photograph printed on matte photographic paper.Reverse: 3712 /entertainment, entertainment album, general tom thumb, circus, performance, arts, recreation, lavinia warren stratton, charles sherwood stratton, 1800s, portrait, p. t. barnum, barnum & bailey circus

Taken in 1870, the photograph depicts Charles Sherwood Stratton (known professionally as General Tom Thumb), Lavinia Stratton, George Washington Morrison Nutt (known professionally as Commodore Nutt), and Huldah Pierce Warren Bump (known professionally as Minnie Warren). They are all dressed in identical costumes worn in 1864 before Emperor Louis Napoleon and Empress Eugenia in Paris. Charles, Lavinia, George and Huldah were all American performers who traveled with the Barnum & Bailey Circus, founded by Phineas Taylor (P. T.) Barnum. They each participated in various acts including singing, dancing, miming, and celebrity impersonations, gaining international fame for their successful careers and small physical stature. The group performed in Australia in August 1870. They were joined by their touring party as part of the Barnum & Bailey Circus "Round the World" tour. Beechworth hosted the circus for three evening shows and two matinees.The photograph is historically significant due to the internationally renowned status of the four individuals pictured. In a general sense, it also provides insight into the arts in Victoria during the late nineteenth century, illustrating the type of entertainment that was enjoyed by the public during this time. The record's historical significance is further enhanced by the attire worn by the individuals in the photograph, and these garments' connections to Emperor Louis Napoleon and Empress Eugenia.Black and white rectangular photograph printed on matte photographic paper.Reverse: 4732.1 / General Tom Thumb + wife / Colonel Nutt + Minnie Warren / (?) / Beechworth / 1870 /entertainment album, general tom thumb, lavinia warren, commodore nutt, minnie warren, circus, p.t. barnum, barnum and bailey circus, beechworth, 1800s, performance, arts

The carte de visite features a photograph of Charles Sherwood Stratton (professionally known as General Tom Thumb) and his wife, Lavinia Warren Stratton. The image was taken in Paris, France in 1864. Charles Sherwood Stratton and Lavinia Warren Stratton were American performers who traveled with the Barnum & Bailey Circus, founded by Phineas Taylor (P. T.) Barnum in 1871. They each participated in various acts including singing, dancing, miming, and celebrity impersonations. Both Charles and Lavinia gained international fame for their successful careers and small physical stature. The duo performed in Australia in August 1870. They were joined by their touring party as part of the Barnum & Bailey Circus "Round the World" tour. The "Australian Tom Thumb", real name John David Armstrong, made his "audaciously competitive" stage debut alongside the popular Stratton couple when the circus performed at the Prahran Popular Entertainments in Melbourne. Charles, Lavinia, P. T. Barnum and the circus inspired the musical drama film, "The Greatest Showman" (2017).The carte de visite is historically significant due to Charles Sherwood Stratton's status as an internationally renowned performer. In a general sense, it also provides insight into the arts in Victoria during the late nineteenth century, illustrating the type of entertainment that was enjoyed by the public during this time. The record's historical significance is further enhanced by its medium as a "carte de visite"; a specific photographic method popularised in the nineteenth century. The record has a valid interpretive capacity for those interested in history and museum studies. It develops our understanding of the sensationalised "human curiosities" exhibition genre that was championed by the West during the late nineteenth and early twentieth centuries. Considering the record's historic context, it is a useful resource for discussing the ethics of representing live human beings for entertainment in a public exhibition context.Sepia rectangular photograph printed on matte photographic paper mounted on card.Obverse: General Tom Thumb and Wife, / in the identical costumes worn before Emperor Louis / Napoleon and the Empress Eugenie, at the Palace of / the Tuilleries, Nov. 29, 1864 / Reverse: 3707 / Compliments of / Charles SStratton. / Lavinia Warren Stratton. / Published by / E. & H. T. Anthony & Co. / CA / 591 Broadway New York. / MANUFACTURERS / of the best / PHOTOGRAPHIC ALBUMS / A02539 /entertainment, entertainment album, circus, general tom thumb, australian tom thumb, charles stratton, lavinia stratton, performance, arts, carnival, p. t. barnum, melbourne, prahran, john david armstrong, film

Alexander Wright was killed whilst performing at the Birmingham Empire as the result of a German air Attack in October 1940. The theatre had a direct hit. The stage name of Alex Wright was 'Navarre' "Prince of Mimics". According to Frank Wright Alex was a great impersonator with a unique range Bass - tenor with many accents (not unlike Peter Dawson) "AUSTRALIAN KILLED An Australian, Alexander Wright, radio variety star, who toured Europe and Australia under the pseudonym of Navarre, was killed during a recent air raid in a Midland . town. His broth-er, Frank Wright, is musical director for the London County council."(Border Morning Mail, 22 Oct 1940) Frank Wright was a renown resident of Smeaton, where he was born. He lived at Laura Villa, and attended Smeaton State School. His father William was a gold miner and his mother's name was Sarah. Their family won many singing and instrumental awards. Frank was tutored by Percy Code and became the Australian Open Cornet Champion by the age of eighteen. Sepia formal photograph of a seated man with two boys, one standing on either side of him. They are posed in front of a backdrop showing one side of a window and its curtain, panelling and a painting. The boys are dressed in shoes, socks, knee pants, vests with a chain, white shirts and a jacket. The man is similarly dressed although with long trousers.frank wright, alex wright, navarre, alexander wright, william wright

Book, hard cover, 12 sections, sewn with end papers, 210 pages, titled "Destination unknown", written by Agatha Christie, published by The Crime Club, 1954. Has the stamp of the Footscray Tramway Library, asking it to be returned within 14 days inside the front cover and in many places throughout the book, along with Number "606" on the inside front cover and on the spine of the book. The book was part of a library run by the depot staff to provide materials during broken shifts and to take home. From Wikipedia - accessed 26/12/2019: Plot summary Hilary Craven, a deserted wife and bereaved mother, is planning suicide in a Moroccan hotel, when she is asked by British secret agent Jessop to undertake a dangerous mission as an alternative to taking an overdose of sleeping pills. The task, which she accepts, is to impersonate the wife of Thomas Betterton, a nuclear scientist who has disappeared and may have defected to the Soviet Union. Soon she finds herself in a group of oddly-assorted travellers being transported to the unknown destination of the title. The destination turns out to be a secret scientific research facility disguised as a modern leper colony and medical research center at a remote location in the Atlas Mountains. The scientists are well-treated, but they are not allowed to leave the facility, and they are locked in secret areas deep inside the mountain whenever government officials and other outsiders visit. Hilary Craven successfully passes herself as Betterton's wife Olive, because he is miserable and wants desperately to escape. Hilary discovers that the facility was built by the fabulously wealthy and somewhat villainous Mr Aristides, for financial rather than political ends. He has lured the world's best young scientists to it with various deceptions so that he can later sell their services back to the world's governments and corporations for a huge profit. She falls in love with Andrew Peters, a handsome young American who was in the group with her on their journey to the facility. With the help of clues she has left along the way, Jessop eventually locates and rescues her and the others held there. Peters turns out also to be on a mission, intent on bringing Betterton to justice for the murder of his first wife. Betterton, revealed to also be a scientific fraud who plagiarized his work, is arrested. Hilary no longer wants to die, and she and Peters are free to begin their life together.On the top of the first page "13/3" indicating the price, "m/arz"? on the bottom left hand corner and inside the front cover the label of "Robertson & Mullens Ltd" booksellers.trams, tramways, footscray depot, libraries, novels, personnel, crews, shifts

This is a part of the A.J. Roddy Collection. The Family have glued a piece on the envelope which says, "Dad's Discharge Paper/ Royal Irish Rifles & Royal Flying Corps./ 7-1-1915 to Dec 1921. Copy a the Discharge paper of Pte2 James Roddy, Royal Irish Rifles & Royal Flying Corps RAF 7-1-1915 to Dec 1921 and CoverCover: Cover for Certificates/ and other Documents of a/ soldier on Demobilization or Transfer to the Reseve/ or Discharge.// Front of Paper: Top right: Form 2067/ Royal Air Force/ Serial No/ Character Certificate of No 133458/ Rank Pte2 Name Roddy James/ Royal Flying Corp (Regiment (crossed out))/ Born in the Parish of / near the Town of South in the / County of ......... on the / Date 11.7.1897/ Trade as stated by him on Enlistment Postman/ 2 parallel lines/ * Description on Leaving the Colours/ Heoght 5ft 6in. Identification Marks:-/ Complexion Fresh Scar above 1st Lumbar/ Eyes Grey. Vertibrae/ Hair Brown/ Signature of Soldier/ (was signed J. Roddy/ * To prevent impersonation/ In the event of any doubt arising as to the bona fidis of the/ bearer, the above description and signature should be carefully compared with present appearance and hand writing. (16:957) WT 3183C/1875 5m.17/18. P&P Ltd/ Photostat copy of Original Opening the paper inside: The character here given is based on continous records of the holder's conduct and / employment throughout his Military Career./ This is to Certify that No 133458 Rank Pte2 Name Roddy James/ has served with the colours in the Royal Irish Rifles & Royal Flying Corps for 3 83/365 years. 1915-18/ Serving in the Royal Flying Corps as a Batman, and during/ the whole of this period carrying out his duites in a/ satisfactory manner/ There is no record of him having incurred any service/ entries on his conduct sheet during this period./ for service in the R.A.F. see form 280/ Signature ..... Squadron Leader/ Date December 1921 Commanding R.A.F. Records Ruislip/ If further particulars as to his character and record of service are required within three years of above date, apply to/ where he is registered for Civil Employment,/ afterwards to the Officer in Charge of Records./ * This space is intended to be filled in by any organisation which has registered the man's name and is prepared to/ supply further information.// Back of paper: Particulars of Service/ Date of Enlistement 7.1.15/ Preceeded on Furlough pending Transfer to the Army/ Reserve, or Discharge on... passed medically fit for the Army Reserve on/ Due for Final Discharge on../ Cause of Transfer or Discharge - Transferred to R.A.F. 1-4-18. under the provisions of the/ Air Force (Constitution) Act Oct. 1917./ Campaigns, Medals and Decorations/ France from 15.6.15 to 3.12.16/ 1914-15 Star, British War & Victory/ Medals. /Education and other Certificates and dates/corps, ww1, collection, royal, a j, roddy, flying, irish, rifles, pte2, james, 1915

Edward (Edmund) de Lacy Evans was really Ellen Tremaye; and in 1856 she married her fellow passenger on her voyage to Australia, Mary Delahunty; under the assumed name of EDMUND De Lacy. In 1859 he/she married Sarah Moore. They were married for eight years when in 1867 she died in childbirth. In 1868 after Sarah had died; Ellen, now known as EDWARD de Lacy Evans married Julia Mary Marquand in Ballarat. From the Melbourne Argus Friday 5th Sept 1879, Page 7 THE EXTRAORDINARY PERSONATION CASE. [BY ELECTRIC TELEGRAPH. FROM OUR OWN CORRESPONDENT.) SANDHURST, THURSDAY. The De Lacy Evans case has created great excitement here. The man-woman having resided in the district for about 20 years, was well known amongst the miners, but no one appeared ever to have supposed that she was other than as she represented herself to be, and the discovery of her sex has caused the greatest astonishment. The police have not yet moved in the matter of the discovery of her antecedents, but from the result of inquiries I have made, there seems to be no room to doubt that the woman is identical with the girl Ellen Tremaye, referred to in yesterday's telegram as having arrived at Melbourne by the ship Ocean Monarch in June, 1857. The nurse at the hospital, Mrs. Holt, is positive she is the same, and says the opinion was held amongst those on board the vessel that Tremaye had been well connected, and that she had left home in consequence of some misconduct. The Ocean Monarch was an immigrant vessel, and on the voyage Tremaye and another young woman, named Rose Kelly, were very intimate, but the latter, being seized with a dangerous illness, was left at Rio Janiero. Mrs. Evans, the wife of the supposed man, states that she frequently heard Evans say that she came out by the Ocean Monarch. But the most satisfactory information of Evans' previous history yet received has been obtained from a Mrs. Thompson, a charwoman at Myers' Creek, who was also a shipmate of the girl Tremaye. At the time she made the voyage she was unmarried, and was accompanied by Miss Mary Ann Delahunty, a young lady who was very well connected, and who came from the same village as herself, named Monakine, on the north bank of the river Suir, in Kilkenny. Miss Delahunty was an orphan and brought with her about £900. After Rose Kelly was taken ill, Tremaye resorted to Miss Delahunty's berth, and the passengers appeared to think there was something strange about the manner in which Tremaye conducted herself, and she had been observed to wear a man's under-clothing. Upon the arrival of the ship in Hobson's Bay, Tremaye declared herself to be a man, and told Mrs. Thompson she intended to marry Miss Delahunty. The next Mrs. Thompson saw of Ellen Tremaye was at Peg-leg Gully, Eaglehawk. Tremaye had just established herself in a house there under the name of Edward de Lacy Evans, and Mrs. Thompson went to serve them with milk. When she went to the house, she saw Evans sitting inside dressed in male attire, and immediately recognised him as her fellow passenger, Ellen Tremaye. Evans had, at this time, married his second wife, Miss Moore, who was then present. Evans re-marked to her—"I think I know you." To which Mrs. Thompson replied—"I know you, too," and added something to the effect that Ellen (referring to Tremaye) was a queer girl." Oh, said Evans, evidently anxious that his then wife should not understand Mrs. Thompson's reference, "It's a good job she is gone back to the old country." Mrs. Thompson inquired as to what had become of Miss Delahunty, and Evans replied, "Oh, my poor wife and boy both died of consumption, and are buried in the North Melbourne cemetery. " In reply to an inquiry as to what had been done with her (Delahunty's) money, Evans said she had sent it home to a nunnery. Evans's then wife had been absent during a portion of this conversation, but at this point she returned, and Evans went outside to the milkwoman, and said, "For your life don't mention my dead wife's name ; call me Mr. Evans. This missus of mine is death on the Roman Catholics, and she can't bear to hear my dead wife's name mentioned." This conversation took place about 12 or 14 years ago, and Mrs. Thompson seems to have quite believed that Evans had personated a woman under the name of Ellen Tremaye on the voyage out and was really a man. She lost sight of Evans soon afterwards, and took no further notice of the affair.Ballarat, Information re De Lacy Evans/Ellen Tremaye - various printed accounts of male impersonator, De Lacy Evans and his marriages and life in Bendigo and elsewhere. Filed under 'De Lacy Evans': a.Typescript - 'The strange story of Ellen Tremaye' (2 pp,); b.Newspaper cuttings (newspaper unknown): September 4, 1879 and 23rd July 1879. names mentioned on this report are; Evans, Stewart, The Trumpeter Clock, Mr. J. W. Moody, Edward De Lacy Evans, Samuels, Holdsworth, Dr. Cruikshank, Dr J. Boyd, Mr. Sterry J.P. (mayor), Mr. Osborn J.P. Elizabeth Marchment, Cornish United Company Long Gully, Constable Hayes, Mr. F. J. Duffy, Mr. J. Quick. C.Bendigo Advertiser 4th Sept 1879 (12 pages) - pp, 1-9 ''Extraordinary case of the concealment of sex'' (pp. 10-12) ''Interview with Mrs Evans''. Names on these sheets are; Edward De Lacy Evans, Sandhurst (Bendigo), Mr. Samuels, Mr. Holdsworth, Dr. Cruikshank, Dr. J. Boyd, Bendigo Hospital, Mr. Gundry (Warder), Irish, France, Dr. Poland, Mr. Bayne, Mr. Strickland, Kew Lunatic Asylum, Argus (newspaper), Sandhurst Hospital, Bendigo Hospital, County Kilkenny Ireland, Mrs Holt (Matron), Ellen Tremayne, Treneage, Eaglehawk, Sarah Moore, Mr. John J. Hall, Mr. George Willan, Buick Henderson and Co,. Pall Mall, Miss Julia Marquahand, Ballarat, Presbyterian Church, Rev. W. Henderson, Paris, Ellen McCormick, , Duncan Uquhart, Anne Dora (Welshman), Pleasant Creek, New Chum Extended Company, Julia Mary, Quarry Hill, Constable Bradley, General Sir Charles De Lacy Evans, Francis Bros Drapers of Pall Mall, Stawell, Allingham Drapers, View Grove Cottage Quarry Hill, Mrs Lofts Denmark Cottage Hargreaves Street, Jersey Cottage off Russell Street Quarry Hill, Great Southern Company, Sea Company, d.Single column entry, Bendigo Advertiser Dec 15th 1879: ''De Lacy Evans''. Names in the article; Ellen Tremayne, Sandhurst, Stawell, The Herald, Mr. F. Hilton, Diorama and Mirror of Australia, Horsham, The Horsham Times, Ireland. e. Newspaper article, by David Horsfall, Bendigo Advertiser Jan 10th 1990 (Title??) with photo of De Lacy Evans (standing); f.Newspaper article (poor legibility) Bendigo Advertiser Aug 27th 1901 ''Death of De Lacey Evans''; g.Newspaper article (undated) by Frank Cusack: ''Forgotten Bendigonians - Bendigo Goldfields und…??'' h.Journal article(3 pp.), The Medical Journal of Australia, Aug 26, 1978 by J R B Ball & R Emmerson: ''A case of personation'';i. copy of page #210 from unknown book (heading:'' Mount Royal Hospital'' j.27 pp.headed ''The Man-Woman Mystery'' (from bound book - binding visible - and copy in the Mitchell Library, publisher; W. Marshall, Royal Lane, Melbourne and Record Office, Emerald Hill with page (no page number) referring to two relevant documents ''The originals of these documents can be seen in the Hall'';Bendigo Advertiserjohn baptiste loridan, ellen tremaye, sarah moore, julia mary marquand, mary delahunty, de lacy evans, de lacy, edward de lacy evans, edmund de lacy, bendigo

Alexander Wright was born on 25 August, 1898 in Smeaton He was the brother of musician Frank Wright. Alex Wright was killed whilst performing at the Birmingham Empire as the result of a German air Attack in October 1940. The theatre had a direct hit. According to Frank Wright Alex was a great impersonator with a unique range Bass - tenor with many accents (not unlike Peter Dawson) "AUSTRALIAN CARUSO Smeaton Boy's Fame Andre Navarre, who left Australia about three years ago to study opera in Europe, bids fair to take a place among the world's great tenors. A few months ago Navarre sang for Melba for the first time, and she immediately acclaimed him to be a finished artist, describing his voice as the nearest approach to the immortal Caruso she had ever heard, writes the Ballarat "Courier." Andre Navarre is, however, only a stage name adopted by Alexander Wright, a son of Mr. and Mrs. William. Wright, of Armstrong street North, Ballarat, and brother of Mr. Frank Wright and Mrs. William Ritchie, of that city. Born at smeaton 31 years ago, in what may be termed a musical atmosphere; Alex. Wright showed a definite desire to sing at a very early age, and in his boyhood figured as soloist at school concerts, etc. His youth was spent around Smeaton, working at home and at various farms in the district until he was about 19 years of age, when he secured a position at the Dunlop rubber works, Melbourne. Up to this period Wright had no vocal training whatever, but being the possessor of a good resonant baritone voice, was persuaded by some of his friends to "have a go at the stage.'' Securing a position in the chorus of "Maid of the Mountains," which was at that time showing at the Theatre Royal, he soon made his voice heard to advantage, and also commenced to take lessons from Signor Robottaro. It was about this time that Wright was invited by a fellow musician to a musical evening at which a member of Rigo's grand opera company, then performing at " The Playhouse," was also present. Hearing Wright sing, the musician immediately said : ' You're a fool to waste your time in a chorus with that voice. Rigo is looking for a singer like you for the role of 'Figaro' in 'Barber of Seville'." Alex, however, did not take the remark seriously, and it was only after the numerous persuasions of friends who obviously knew the real value of his voice that the modest young man was eventually induced to meet Rigo. The Italian maestro was so delighted with the voice that without hesitation he was given the principle role of "The Barber" to study. Many singers having previously been tried and rejected for the part, Wright was astonished at his success in being chosen, and awakened suddenly to the fact by the maestro that a world voice, if properly trained, would surely develop in the young artist, Alex at once settled down to study, and all day long in his boarding house at St. Kilda could be heard rehearsing his new role. In less than a month he had completely mastered the part, and on the opening night, in the exacting role of "The Barber," he was an outstanding success. Later, he toured Australia with many leading artists, including Elsa Stralia and Harry Lauder, and spent his last two years in Sydney, where he was engaged as soloist in the biggest picture house. Realising that a training in Italy and on the Continent was essential for a successful operatic singer, the young artist decided to go overseas to continue his studies. He did not leave Australia, however, before he gratuitously gave a concert in his little home town to the obvious delight of all his old friends, who flocked from all parts of the district to hear him. The hall was packed to overflowing , and so pleased was Alex with the tumultuous reception he received that he sang fewer than 20 songs. Once in Italy, he lost no time in placing himself under the tuition of Cottone, and it was at the studio of this maestro that he met Toti dal Monte, a former protege of the same master. Two years were spent in Italy, when "Navarre" learned to speak the Italian language fluently, and acquired a wide knowledge of the operas. He sang in Milan about a year ago, and was paid some glowing tributes by the Italian Press critics, who likened his voice to that of Caruso. From Italy he went to Paris, where he met John Brownlee and many other famous singers. The critics on the Continent are unanimous that Andre Navarre-the unassuming Smeaton boy, whom his schoolmates still affectionately call "Hock"--is destined to become one of the luminaries in music history. It is interesting to recall some facts concerning the remarkable family from which this artist springs. Four other members have won championship honors in the musical world. Mr. Frank Wright has the Australasian cornet championship to his credit ; Mr. Norman Wright, of Sydney, has won a tenor championship of New Zealand, and has recorded for the Columbia Gramophone Company ; Mrs. Wm. Ritchie ( formerly Miss Laura Wright) won the A.N.A. contralto championship in Melbourne; whilst the oldest member, Lydia (Mrs. C. Cane, now in N.Z.) won the violin championship at South Street when 17 years of age. Last year Mrs. and Mr. Wright celebrated their golden wedding. Both of the old folk are intensely musical, and it has been said that the voice of the mother, although entirely untrained, showed in her earlier days glimpses of the beautiful quality which made Melba famous. Andre Navarre does not propose leaving the Continent for some time. Recently he was offered a 12 months' contract to sing in London for £2500 but on the advice of Melba and his coach, it was refused on the grounds that yet another 12 months' French study was necessary to ensure absolute perfection. That "Alex " has lost none of his school-boy wit is evinced by his own jocular remark that he has "a top C sharp that will crack every window in the Sydney Town Hall!" (Horsham Times, 20 February 1931) "AUSTRALIAN KILLED An Australian, Alexander Wright, radio variety star, who toured Europe and Australia under the pseudonym of Navarre, was killed during a recent air raid in a Midland . town. His broth-er, Frank Wright, is musical director for the London County council."(Border Morning Mail, 22 Oct 1940) Black and white image of Smeaton born Alexander Wright whose professional name was Navarre "Prince of Mimics". alexander wright, alec wright, navarre