Handwritten notes and typed copy, on Victoria Hill. Notes mention the completion of the Bendigo and District Tourist Association's Mining project, what can be seen in the area, the views of Bendigo from the top of the 68 feet high poppet legs, geological features and rock colourings in the open cuts, its direct link to Fortuna mansion and the one-time deepest mine workings in the world. On the back is a number of references and page numbers. Notes prepared by Albert Richardson.document, memo, victoria hill, victoria hill, notes on victoria hill, bendigo and district tourist association, new chum line, lansell's fortuna mansion, central nell gwynne

Produced by Army Survey Regiment, Bendigo. Describes grandeur of Fortuna and the vision and enterprise that saw the complex of mansion, gardens and mine buildings develop on the site. Twelve pagesArmy Survey Regimentbendigo, house, fortuna villa, fortuna, george lansell, ballerstedt, sandhurst, bendigo

Black and white photograph showing lake by 'Fortuna'. The mansion owned by Ballestredt and later, Lansell families. View shows willowed margins and wind-driven construction on lake surface. Inscriptions: Top RH corner face of mount. MP 213. Stamped in circle on back: 'Historical Society of Victoria, Bendigo Branch'. Top RH corner on back 'MP 213' printed in clack ink. Written in blue ink 'Main Lake at Fortuna'. History of object: Previous Acc. No. 'MP 213'.cottage, miners

The Victoria Quartz Gold Mine was situated on Victoria Hill, Ironbark, (1877 - 1913). At the turn of the century, this was the site of one of the premier mines on the Bendigo goldfield. In 1908, it boasted the world's deepest shaft - 4,478 feet (1,365 metres). The shaft reached a depth of 4,613 feet (1,406 metres) in 1910. In 1857 eight small claims in this area had been merged to form the Victoria Reef Quartz Mining Co. Another merger in 1877 led to the formation of the Victoria Quartz Co. For the next three decades, the mine produced consistent profits. In 1910, water burst into the claim, flooding the shaft and halting operations. The company baled water for six months then handed the mine over to the tributers who worked the upper levels for the share of the profits. The mine closed in 1913, having produced over 48,000 ounces of gold and paid dividends of £99,600. (Source, Goldfield Guide https://www.goldfieldsguide.com.au/explore-location/400/victoria-hill-mining-reserve/) Victorian Heritage Register information on mine: Statement of Significance Last updated on - July 14, 2005 The story of quartz mining on Victoria Hill lies at the heart of Bendigo's historical status as the world's richest and deepest reefing field. Gold was discovered on Victoria Hill in 1854, and by early 1855 claims had been taken up over its entire extent. Shafts were first worked by windlass, whip or whim, and primitive crushing batteries were in operation. By 1861, Victoria Hill had yielded at least 1,200,000oz in gold. One of the early claims on Victoria Hill was owned by Prussian immigrants, Christopher Ballerstedt and his son Theodore. In 1854, they bought a claim on the hill for £80, to which they subsequently added other claims, and from the quartz veins (called spurs), worked both by shafts and a large open cut, obtained gold worth nearly £200,000. Christopher Ballerstedt was dubbed 'Father of the Hill' and has been credited as the first to debunk the theory at that time prevalent on the Bendigo field, that the gold content of reefs would diminish at depth. As his shafts plunged below the 200-foot level, the quartz remained rich in gold. His success inspired others, and so led the way to Bendigo's later status as the world's deepest and richest goldfield. The Ballerstedt's built Bendigo's grandest mansion, Fortuna. Theodore continued to work Victoria Hill after his father's death, but in 1871, convinced that his claim was exhausted, he sold both mine and mansion to George Lansell for £60,000. Lansell's mine on Victoria Hill was called the 180, and operated under his ownership until his death in 1906. The mine supplied the initial wealth that made Lansell Bendigo's 'Quartz King'. George Lansell was such a force in Bendigo's mining history that his death was cited as one of the reasons for the decline of Bendigo as a quartz mining centre, The Victoria Hill Quartz Gold Mines are of historical, archaeological and scientific importance to the State of Victoria. The Victoria Hill Quartz Gold Mines are historically significant as the symbolic heart of Bendigo's famous goldfield. The mines are linked to nineteenth-century individuals (Christopher Ballerstedt and George Lansell) who played prominent roles in the evolution of Bendigo. Both men's fortunes and their influence on Bendigo, originated from mining operations carried out on the hill. The Victoria Hill Quartz Gold Mines are historically and scientifically important as characteristic examples of an important form of gold mining. Gold mining sites are of crucial importance for the pivotal role they have played since 1851 in the development of Victoria. As well as being a significant producer of Victoria's nineteenth century wealth, quartz mining, with its intensive reliance on machinery, played an important role in the development of Victorian manufacturing industry. The Victoria Hill Quartz Gold Mines are important as a manifestation of this aspect of gold mining. The Victoria Hill Quartz Gold Mines are scientifically important, as they contain relics span nearly sixty years of mining (1854 to 1913), documenting the richest and most significant years of Bendigo's world-famous quartz mining industry. Enhancing the significance of the place are relics from the Victoria Quartz Company operations, ncluding, at 4,870 feet, the world's deepest nineteenth-century gold mining shaft. As a postscript to the chronology of gold mining is the surviving crushing machinery (formerly part of the Bendigo Crushing Works) which was erected near the foundations of Lansell's 180 mine in 1932, to crush quartz for nearby mines. The place has a potential to yield artefacts and evidence which will be able to provide significant information about the technological history of gold mining. [Source: Victorian Heritage Register] Hermes Number 8506 https://vhd.heritagecouncil.vic.gov.au/index.php/places/8506/download-report Hand drawn plan of the bottom section of the Victoria Quartz Gold Mine. Mine shaft shown from 2706 feet to 5200 (potential) feet shown, with annotation regarding geological features and gold obtained from different level crushings. Blue border sticker on outside of plan: '13 BC 23 Victoria Quartz Trans-Section'. Plan is not dated. The Victoria Quartz plan is part of the Margaret Roberts Collection.victoria hill quartz gold mine, victoria hill

Fortuna Villa was initially commenced as a modest single storey home in 1861 next to the 180 Mine by Theodore Ballerstedt, who sold the mine and house to George Lansell in 1869. Lansell already owned the adjacent Fortuna Mine, and through deeper mining techniques greatly expanded the mine's operation, his personal wealth, and the house and grounds. Lansell was soon known as the 'Quartz King', Australia's first gold mining millionaire and credited as the driving force behind much of Bendigo's prosperity. He continuously added to and expanded the villa, decorating it extravagantly with the finest of artworks and materials, into a sprawling mansion with extensive landscaped grounds, to create a house and grounds of a size and grandeur with few rivals in Australia. After his death in 1907, his second wife Edith carried on with improvements, creating a house and grounds developed over 50 years. The attached mine also contributes to its significance, being one of the richest mines in Bendigo, and at one stage probably the deepest gold mine in the world at 3176 feet. The 1875 crushing works are attached directly to the mansion, and the mine's tailings and settling ponds (turned into ornamental lakes) represent a direct link between George Lansell's wealth and its source. Fortuna was compulsorily acquired by the Commonwealth in 1942 as the Cartographic Headquarters of the Australian Survey Corps during World War II, and many ancillary structures were added while preserving the main house and ornamental grounds. Victorian Heritage Database Report https://vhd.heritagecouncil.vic.gov.au/places/68334/download-reportMinutes of Army Survey Regiment Unit Historical Fund, Fortuna Villa (28 Aug 1991 - 25 Nov 1992) 28 August 1991 - cost of construction of base of the fountain, and letter to Bendigo Art Gallery to follow-up loan of the "Venus" statue for display in the RM's office and resurfacing of marble baths in the CO and adjutant's offices. Single undated page from Unit Historical Fund Committee in 1991. 11 Nov 1992 - discussion of Christmas tours and a plaque for hallway. 25 Nov 1992 - lights for the Company's office, and a discussion of five tasks for next year. Lansell's Fortuna flyer for tour.fortuna villa, minutes

Fortuna Villa was initially commenced as a modest single storey home in 1861 next to the 180 Mine by Theodore Ballerstedt, who sold the mine and house to George Lansell in 1869. Lansell already owned the adjacent Fortuna Mine, and through deeper mining techniques greatly expanded the mine's operation, his personal wealth, and the house and grounds. Lansell was soon known as the 'Quartz King', Australia's first gold mining millionaire and credited as the driving force behind much of Bendigo's prosperity. He continuously added to and expanded the villa, decorating it extravagantly with the finest of artworks and materials, into a sprawling mansion with extensive landscaped grounds, to create a house and grounds of a size and grandeur with few rivals in Australia. After his death in 1907, his second wife Edith carried on with improvements, creating a house and grounds developed over 50 years. The attached mine also contributes to its significance, being one of the richest mines in Bendigo, and at one stage probably the deepest gold mine in the world at 3176 feet. The 1875 crushing works are attached directly to the mansion, and the mine's tailings and settling ponds (turned into ornamental lakes) represent a direct link between George Lansell's wealth and its source. Fortuna was compulsorily acquired by the Commonwealth in 1942 as the Cartographic Headquarters of the Australian Survey Corps during World War II, and many ancillary structures were added while preserving the main house and ornamental grounds. Victorian Heritage Database Report https://vhd.heritagecouncil.vic.gov.au/places/68334/download-reportMinutes of the Fortuna Historical Committee held 24 August 1994 (hand written minutes over four sheets, referenced Vol 9 Fol 3) including four pages of stakeholder feedback tabled at the meetingfortuna, historical unit

Fortuna Villa was initially commenced as a modest single storey home in 1861 next to the 180 Mine by Theodore Ballerstedt, who sold the mine and house to George Lansell in 1869. Lansell already owned the adjacent Fortuna Mine, and through deeper mining techniques greatly expanded the mine's operation, his personal wealth, and the house and grounds. Lansell was soon known as the 'Quartz King', Australia's first gold mining millionaire and credited as the driving force behind much of Bendigo's prosperity. He continuously added to and expanded the villa, decorating it extravagantly with the finest of artworks and materials, into a sprawling mansion with extensive landscaped grounds, to create a house and grounds of a size and grandeur with few rivals in Australia. After his death in 1907, his second wife Edith carried on with improvements, creating a house and grounds developed over 50 years. The attached mine also contributes to its significance, being one of the richest mines in Bendigo, and at one stage probably the deepest gold mine in the world at 3176 feet. The 1875 crushing works are attached directly to the mansion, and the mine's tailings and settling ponds (turned into ornamental lakes) represent a direct link between George Lansell's wealth and its source. Fortuna was compulsorily acquired by the Commonwealth in 1942 as the Cartographic Headquarters of the Australian Survey Corps during World War II, and many ancillary structures were added while preserving the main house and ornamental grounds. Victorian Heritage Database Report https://vhd.heritagecouncil.vic.gov.au/places/68334/download-reportConservation report for the Pompeii Fountain & Adjacent Structures at "Fortuna" Chum Street, Golden Square, Victoria. Prepared for Fortuna Historical Committee. March 1996.Halina Eckersley, Architect & Conservation Planner, Kewpompeii fountain, greenhouse, fortuna lake, gardens

Fortuna Villa was initially commenced as a modest single storey home in 1861 next to the 180 Mine by Theodore Ballerstedt, who sold the mine and house to George Lansell in 1869. Lansell already owned the adjacent Fortuna Mine, and through deeper mining techniques greatly expanded the mine's operation, his personal wealth, and the house and grounds. Lansell was soon known as the 'Quartz King', Australia's first gold mining millionaire and credited as the driving force behind much of Bendigo's prosperity. He continuously added to and expanded the villa, decorating it extravagantly with the finest of artworks and materials, into a sprawling mansion with extensive landscaped grounds, to create a house and grounds of a size and grandeur with few rivals in Australia. After his death in 1907, his second wife Edith carried on with improvements, creating a house and grounds developed over 50 years. The attached mine also contributes to its significance, being one of the richest mines in Bendigo, and at one stage probably the deepest gold mine in the world at 3176 feet. The 1875 crushing works are attached directly to the mansion, and the mine's tailings and settling ponds (turned into ornamental lakes) represent a direct link between George Lansell's wealth and its source. Fortuna was compulsorily acquired by the Commonwealth in 1942 as the Cartographic Headquarters of the Australian Survey Corps during World War II, and many ancillary structures were added while preserving the main house and ornamental grounds. Victorian Heritage Database Report https://vhd.heritagecouncil.vic.gov.au/places/68334/download-reportPreliminary report of Structural assessment of Building 16 Fortuna Complex, Chum Street, Bendigo. Four page preliminary report finding the building is structurally safe as at Wed 19 December 2007 with three recommendations. Prepared for DIGO by Structural Engineers - Terry Stevens Consulting Engineers Pty Ltd.fortuna, structural assessment

Fortuna Villa was initially commenced as a modest single storey home in 1861 next to the 180 Mine by Theodore Ballerstedt, who sold the mine and house to George Lansell in 1869. Lansell already owned the adjacent Fortuna Mine, and through deeper mining techniques greatly expanded the mine's operation, his personal wealth, and the house and grounds. Lansell was soon known as the 'Quartz King', Australia's first gold mining millionaire and credited as the driving force behind much of Bendigo's prosperity. He continuously added to and expanded the villa, decorating it extravagantly with the finest of artworks and materials, into a sprawling mansion with extensive landscaped grounds, to create a house and grounds of a size and grandeur with few rivals in Australia. After his death in 1907, his second wife Edith carried on with improvements, creating a house and grounds developed over 50 years. The attached mine also contributes to its significance, being one of the richest mines in Bendigo, and at one stage probably the deepest gold mine in the world at 3176 feet. The 1875 crushing works are attached directly to the mansion, and the mine's tailings and settling ponds (turned into ornamental lakes) represent a direct link between George Lansell's wealth and its source. Fortuna was compulsorily acquired by the Commonwealth in 1942 as the Cartographic Headquarters of the Australian Survey Corps during World War II, and many ancillary structures were added while preserving the main house and ornamental grounds. Victorian Heritage Database Report https://vhd.heritagecouncil.vic.gov.au/places/68334/download-reportTicket for Fortuna Villa Tour conducted by the Army Survey Regiment and the National Trust. 31/12/1985. Black printing on yellow card.fortuna villa, tour

Fortuna Villa was initially commenced as a modest single storey home in 1861 next to the 180 Mine by Theodore Ballerstedt, who sold the mine and house to George Lansell in 1869. Lansell already owned the adjacent Fortuna Mine, and through deeper mining techniques greatly expanded the mine's operation, his personal wealth, and the house and grounds. Lansell was soon known as the 'Quartz King', Australia's first gold mining millionaire and credited as the driving force behind much of Bendigo's prosperity. He continuously added to and expanded the villa, decorating it extravagantly with the finest of artworks and materials, into a sprawling mansion with extensive landscaped grounds, to create a house and grounds of a size and grandeur with few rivals in Australia. After his death in 1907, his second wife Edith carried on with improvements, creating a house and grounds developed over 50 years. The attached mine also contributes to its significance, being one of the richest mines in Bendigo, and at one stage probably the deepest gold mine in the world at 3176 feet. The 1875 crushing works are attached directly to the mansion, and the mine's tailings and settling ponds (turned into ornamental lakes) represent a direct link between George Lansell's wealth and its source. Fortuna was compulsorily acquired by the Commonwealth in 1942 as the Cartographic Headquarters of the Australian Survey Corps during World War II, and many ancillary structures were added while preserving the main house and ornamental grounds. Victorian Heritage Database Report https://vhd.heritagecouncil.vic.gov.au/places/68334/download-reportProposal for the formation of a Fortuna Commission to ensure the preservation of Fortuna Villa. Written by Daryl McClure. May 2012fortuna villa, preservation, daryl mcclure

PROPERTY MARKET Fortuna, Bendigo The Bendigo mansion property, Fortuna, for many years the home of the late Mr George Lansell, will again be offered for sale by auction. Some few years ago the property was purchased by Gold Mines of Australia Ltd., and it was used for a time for the offices of Bendigo Mines N.L. The company now has no further use for the building. As a last effort to retain this historic 52-room mansion, it will be offered as it now stands, with the spacious grounds which contain three lakes, a terrace, a rose garden, a swimming-pool, and a Roman fountain. It is hoped that it may be purchased by some organisation for use as a school, hospital, or other institution. If a sale is not effected the building will be sold immediately for demolition. This should arouse much interest as it con-tains many cedar and mahogany fittings, parquetry floors, central heating and hot-water plants. The auction sale will be held within the next few weeks by J H Curnow and Son of Little Collins street and Bendigo. https://trove.nla.gov.au/newspaper/article/11158857?searchTerm=fortuna%20auction%20sale Demolition Auction Sale Flyer for Fortuna under instructions from Bendigo Mines. Dated 29th and 30th June 1930. Auctioneers J H Curnow and Son. Black ink on yellow paper.fortuna villa, auction, bendigo mines

Typed copy of notes on Victoria Hill, Ironbark and New Chum Hill - An Historic Landmark. Notes include locality, some of the early mines, their depth, gold produced, dividends paid, vertical winding engine and crushing battery. Mines mentioned are: Rae's, Wittscheibe and Company 'Jeweler's Shop', the Advance, Cinderella Mine, Lansell's 180, North Old Chum, Victoria Quartz, Burrowes and Sterry's, Lazarus' Claim, Gibbs and Lazarus, Bonatti's, Menzies, Hildebrandt and Kock's, Ellesmere, Old Chum, New Chum and Victoria, New Chum United, New Chum Consolidated and the Garibaldi.document, gold, victoria hill, victoria hill ironbark, rae's, wittscheibe and company 'jeweller's shop', hopetoun band room, advance, cinderella mine, geo lansell, lansell's 180, new chum hill, fortuna mansion, new chum drainage association, north old chum, b c v 8 television studio, royal survey regiment, burrowes and sterry, lazarus claim, gibbs and lazarus, bonatti's, menzies, hildebrandt and kock's, ellesmere, old chum, p m g repeater station, ballerstedt, mr geo lansell, new chum and victoria, phoenix, mt alvernia hospital, new chum united, new chum consolidated, garibaldi, mr clarke magee

Originally designed in 1857 and extended to the further designs by Bendigo Architects Vahland and Getzschmann, Emil Mauermann and William Beebe the original two story house expanded over time as Lansell's fortune increased and the subsequent mansion was built adjacent to the New Chum Reef and mine from which most of his wealth was yielded. Fortuna remained in the Lansell family for twenty nine years after George died and was sold by auction for demolition in 1934 only to be saved to become a reception house. In 1942 the Army acquired a lease for wartime mapping and occupied the site until 2008. It is now in private hands with the surrounding land being divided for housing. George Lansell was commonly known as 'Australia's Quartz-King' and director of thirty-eight mines with some link with almost every mine in Bendigo.A4 size tour booklet outlining the history, use and architectural features of Fortuna Villa which was purchased by George Lansell in 1860. mayor william beebe, george lansell

'Fortuna' was developed by George Lansell, the 'Quartz King', from the 1870s to 1906. The estate features a mansion, a notable Italian water garden with imported elements, and a large lake originally used for mining. The property covers 6.7 hectares and contains many mature trees, including palms, poplars, pepper trees, Norfolk Island pines, and various specimen trees. Since 1942 to the 1980s, the Department of Defence has owned and maintained the property. General Considerations are to: 1 Preserve and restore the heritage value and history of the gardens to complement historic buildings. Maintain plant health and species diversity to enhance the area's character. 2 Address financial constraints, human use, military requirements, and stakeholder engagement. 3 Employ qualified experts to prepare the plan. 4 Address historical significance, plant health, heritage value, remedial works, and visual character (including maintaining views and screening modern structures). 5 Restore garden design to its original character where possible. 6 Recommend measures for future works to protect garden health and significant trees. 7 Identify and map significant plants and recommend suitable species for replanting. Consultant to start in September 1994 and complete by December 1994 with Regular meetings with a steering committee and encourage public involvement. The plan aims to ensure the long-term preservation, enhancement, and appropriate use of the heritage gardens, balancing historical, ecological, recreational, and military needs. In 1996 Fancine Gilfedder and Associates produced the Garden Conservation Management Plan for the Department of Defence: This Conservation Management Plan for the historic Fortuna Bendigo Garden outlines its historical development, significance, and strategies for preservation and management. 1. The plan was commissioned by the Department of Defence and prepared by Francine Gilfedder & Associates in 1996. It covers the Fortuna Garden site, its heritage status, and the methodology used for assessment. 2. Historical OverviewProvides a detailed chronology of the garden's development and its phases. Identifies significant materials, features, and architectural elements. 3. Site AssessmentSurveys existing site conditions, including plant and tree inventories.Documents architectural features and general landscape conditions. 4. Assesses the garden's heritage value using established criteria (e.g., Burra Charter, AHC criteria). Identifies elements of significance and provides comparative analysis with similar sites. 5. Summarizes the heritage value and unique aspects of the Fortuna Garden. 6. Outlines statutory and non-statutory requirements, user needs, and physical constraints affecting management. 7. Recommends general and component-specific policies for conservation. 8. Implementation Provides guidelines and specific recommendations for development and ongoing management. 9. Details best practices for tree, shrub, rose, and lawn care, as well as maintenance of paths and structures.Fortuna Villa Conservation Management Plans This Document Contains the following Items: 11231.4a This document is a draft brief by the army, 1994. It outlines the brief for a conservation management plan for the heritage gardens and surrounds of Fortuna Villa in Bendigo. It's three pages outlines Purpose, Background History and General Considerations, requirements and a summary. Seven first pages reproduced here. 11231.4b This Conservation Management Plan for the historic Fortuna Bendigo Garden outlines its historical development, significance, and strategies for preservation and management. Black Fabric Binding of approximately 110 pages (printed on both sides), photocopy with photos and plans. The first four pages showing the cover and index are shown here. 11231.4c Undated. This document is a horticultural report providing suggestions for improving the grounds and gardens at 'Fortuna', a historic estate now used by the Army Survey Regiment in Bendigo. The black and white report of approx 100 pages is "Spiralex" bound. It contains - it is compiled for the army by Karl Liffman (TAFE horticulture department) and Ian Huxley (experienced horticulturist and garden designer), with input from gardening apprentices. It contains many photos with new suggestions overlyared on top of them. The report addresses only the grounds and gardens visible to visitors: main drive, car parks, front garden, and areas around the lake. Recommendations are from a horticultural perspective, emphasizing plant variety and practical maintenance over formal landscape architecture.PurposeAims to guide the Army in developing and maintaining Fortuna’s gardens, recognizing the property's heritage and its value for public relations. 11231.4d An unbound copy of the above 11231.4e A letter to Range Control, Department of Defence, Puckapunyal, from Francine Gilfedder and Associates, Landscape Architect and Horticulturist, 15 Dover St Richmond; and a 18 page management plan. The plan aims to guide the conservation and management of the Fortuna Villa gardens, focusing on heritage values and preservation needs. May 1995. 11231.4f March 1996 five page document which outlines a conservation and restoration proposal for the Pompeii Fountain and adjacent heritage structures at Fortuna, Golden Square, Victoria. The fountain's steel column was severely rusted; rendered surfaces and marble font were deteriorating; adjacent garden walls and staircases were failing. 11231.4g Copy of above 11231.4h A five page document which contains key points from the conservation and restoration plan for Fortuna Villa. 1990s. 11231.4i A 30 page document. Part of the conservation policy and management plan for the Fortuna estate: 11231.4j A six page document is a conservation management plan and tree health report for Fortuna Villa in Bendigo, focusing on diagnosing tree diseases, assessing tree conditions, and recommending removal or treatment actions. Prepared by Francine Gilfedder and Associates, Landscape Architect and Horticulturist, 15 Dover St Richmond for the army. 11231.4k The one page document is a tree inspection report for a Sierra Redwood at Fortuna Villa, Bendigo, prepared in response to concerns about the tree's stability after the removal of a nearby specimen. Prepared by Trevor Lawrence Tree Surgeon, 830 Barkley St Ballarat. July 1995 11231.4l A 15 page document which provides an interpretive plan and historical overview for Fortuna Villa, a heritage site in Bendigo, focusing on its history, significance, and strategies for visitor engagement. 1995 prepared by Dianne Bish, Eaglehawk 11231.4m A large army plan of the Fortuna Grounds with prominent trees marked.bendigo, fortuna villa, history, army survey regiment, gardens, conservation management

Mrs. Speechley worked as a maid at Fortuna, Bendigo's grandest home, for eight years starting just after leaving school. The estate was renowned for its size (40 rooms) and beautiful gardens. The household employed a staff of seven, including two German maids who served the family for 50 years. Workdays were long, starting at 7:30 am and ending after 10 pm, with only brief afternoon breaks. Duties included serving afternoon tea to guests, often from Bendigo's leading families, and maintaining the entire house even though only two Lansell family members lived there. Despite the decline of the gold baron era, the Lansells maintained a lavish lifestyle, hosting elite guests such as Lords Stradbroke, Stonehaven, and Sommers.The family owned several of Bendigo's finest homes and frequently entertained high-profile visitors, including governors and relatives from England. Staff enjoyed simple pleasures like boating on the lake and relaxing in the gardens when the family was away.Mrs. Speechley recalls specific incidents, such as serving while Lord Stonehaven was in residence and working at other Lansell properties like Dendra and Lansellstowe.Mrs. Speechley's memories provide a unique glimpse into the domestic service and social life of one of Bendigo's most prominent families during the 1920s, preserving a romanticized view of a bygone era. The Lansell family maintained high standards at Fortuna mansion, especially during visits from governors, with special preparations such as new curtains, linens, and engraved silverware.Mrs. Lansell preferred to shop in Melbourne rather than Bendigo due to her high social status and discomfort with local attention. The document shares a lighthearted story about a governor misplacing his bathing suit and retrieving it himself. Mrs. Speechley, a former staff member, recalls her experiences working for the Lansell family, including her brief departure and return after Mrs. Lansell's advice. After the Army took over the mansion in the early 1940s, the elegant furnishings and gardens were lost, which Mrs. Speechley describes as a shame.Fortuna Restoration Article - "Gold and Governors" - Bendigo Advertiser Sat 23 Sept 1995- Author Mathew O'Sullivan This item contains the following: 11217.2a Black and White Photo of Myrtle Speechley displaying a picture of herself as a young maid at Fortuna 11217.3b Part of page 23 - Gold and Governors 11217.3c Part of page 23 - Gold and Governorsnon-fictionbendigo, fortuna, army tropographic support establishment, myrtle speechley

Fortuna house is open to the public with weekly guided tours, contrary to the belief that it closed after the Army Survey Regiment left. Tours are led by Mal Fosters and run every Sunday from 1pm to 3pm, with group bookings and alternative times available by contacting Pat Graham. Tour attendance declined after the army's departure, impacting funding for restoration and upkeep. Funds from tours are essential for ongoing restoration projects, some of which are on hold due to limited resources. Original wood and artefacts are stored until funds allow for their proper display. Furniture sold in 1934 has been gradually repurchased by the Regiment and Lansell family members.The house features luxurious marble baths, stained-glass windows, grand staircases, and intricate ceiling work, reflecting George Lansell's taste. Every part of Fortuna contains elements of Bendigo's history.Fortuna Restoration Article - "Fortuna Open For Inspection" - Bendigo Advertiser Tues 08 July 1997- Author Susan Turpie, photographer Peter Hyett This item contains the following: 11217.5a Colour Photo of Fortuna tour guide Mal Fosters pointing out the intricate details of a ceiling in one room, before showing people into one of George Lansell's former dining rooms in the majestic mansion. 11217.5b Colour Photo of tourists scanning the stained-glass windows 11217.5c Colour Photo of one of the dining rooms 11217.5d Part of page 2 - Fortuna Open For Inspectionnon-fictionbendigo, fortuna, army tropographic support establishment

Fortuna is a historically significant mansion in Bendigo, once home to the Lansell family from 1871 to 1935. George Lansell, Wendy's ancestor, was a prominent goldmine owner known as "the quartz king of Bendigo. Wendy Caldwell, aged 50 and a business owner in Melbourne, was inspired by her visit to Fortuna to organize a major family reunion. She planned and brought together 250 relatives for the event. The reunion began with tours of Fortuna, celebrating the family's historical legacy and connection to the site.Fortuna Restoration Article - "Family Fortuna Sparks Reunion" - The Herald Sun Sunday Nov 02 1997- Author Adrian Tame This item contains the following: 11217.7a Black and White Photo of George Lansell's sister's grandson, Stan Budds, 95, with some of his relatives, Picture by Phil Weymouth 11217.7b Part of page 15 - Family Fortuna Sparks Reunionnon-fictionbendigo, fortuna, stan budds, wendy caldwell

After 20 years, public tours of Fortuna, the historic mansion of George Lansell, are ending. The tours were run by Malcolm and Hayden Beer, who are moving away from Bendigo. Hayden Beer managed the canteen during weekdays and conducted tours with devonshire teas on weekends for the past four and a half years. Malcolm Beer educated himself about the mansion and the Lansell family to lead the tours, gathering information from a Lansell family reunion. Declining public interest and low attendance over the last six months contributed to the decision. The couple's departure means the Defence Topographic Agency will no longer offer the tours. The last tour is scheduled for Sunday, November 12.The tour includes a two-hour guided visit and devonshire tea for $11.For bookings, contact Pat Graham at the provided phone number.Fortuna Article - "The end of an era - Fortuna tours to close" - The Bendigo Weekly Nov 10 2000 This item contains the following: 11217.28a Colour photo of Hayden Beer at Fortuna 11217.28c Colour photo of Hayden Beer at Fortuna 11217.28b Part of page - Article "The end of an era - Fortuna tours to close"non-fictionbendigo, fortuna, george lansell, malcolm beer, hayden beer

Steve Gibbons, Federal Member for Bendigo, suggests selling non-heritage parts of the Fortuna Villa property to fund maintenance of the historic mansion, ornamental lake, and mining battery. Non-heritage areas could be subdivided for private housing and possibly a health or aged-care facility. A new road connecting Marble and Chum streets could open up the site for these developments. The land west of the heritage lake and buildings is proposed for housing, while the corner of Chum and Booth streets is suggested for a health or aged-care facility. Gibbons emphasizes that only the original George Lansell property and its historic buildings are of heritage value; army-era buildings are not. He proposes that proceeds from development and ongoing rates be set aside to fund future maintenance of the heritage assets. Gibbons insists the mansion should remain in public ownership to preserve George Lansell's legacy and avoid burdening taxpayers or ratepayers. He is open to other ideas for the property's future use but stresses the need for a sustainable funding source. The City of Greater Bendigo is awaiting reports from the Department of Defence before making decisions about the property's future.Fortuna Article - "Fortuna part sale idea" Jan 24 2009 The Bendigo Advertiser by Sara Mennie This item contains the following: 11217.34a Colour Photo of Steve Gibbons, Federal Member for Bendigo 11217.34b Colour Photo of proposed extensions to the Fortuna site 11217.34c Part of Page 4 - Article "Fortuna part sale idea" 11217.34d Colour Photo of Front Page Photo from the Bendigo Advertiser showing Fortuna with a "For Sale Sign"non-fictionbendigo, fortuna, george lansell, steve gibbons

This document proposes the creation of a documentary about George Lansell, known as the "Quartz King" of Bendigo, highlighting his significant impact on the region's goldfields and community. Suggests strong support for a film documenting George Lansell's life, backed by local council, historical society, and parliamentary representatives. Recommends submitting the idea to organizations like Film Australia. Lansell was a prominent mining magnate with private ownership of multiple mines and investments in Australia and abroad. He was known for his immense wealth, generosity, and contributions to Bendigo's prosperity. His mansion, Fortuna, was one of the most lavish in the colony. The Big 180 mine, owned by Lansell, was the deepest in the Southern Hemisphere by 1895 and yielded significant gold output. Lansell and his partners extracted an estimated three million pounds worth of gold from the Big 180. Lansell was celebrated for his philanthropy, supporting public institutions, charities, and miners in need. Upon his death in 1906, he left shares in his mines to employees and set up a trust fund for widows and orphans of Bendigo miners. The document emphasizes the rich historical material available for a documentary, drawing from local archives and historical accounts.Fortuna Article - "Long lives the king" Bendigo Miner 13 Sept 2007 by Max Thomson This item contains the following: 11217.32a Colour Photo of Mining Man Statue: the "Quartz King, Geoge Lansell 11217.32b Part of Page 10 - Article "Long lives the king"non-fictionbendigo, fortuna, george lansell, quartz king, big 180 mine

Descendants of the Lansell family traveled from England to Bendigo during the Easter Festival. The group includes descendants of Audrey Lansell, Sir George Lansell's eldest daughter. The family toured Fortuna Villa, an iconic mansion in Bendigo, and visited the Lansell vault. They also participated in various Easter Festival attractions, especially for the children. Duncan Crawford, a family member, expressed hope that Fortuna Villa would be made available for community use. He suggested the mansion and its gardens could host events like opera recitals and picnics, emphasizing its beauty and potential as a community asset.Fortuna Articles - "Ancestral Home" April 2009 The Bendigo Advertiser This item contains the following: 11217.38a Colour Photo of From L to R Ashley Fenton, Josceline Fenton, Vicky Stock, Juda Newton-Stock, Duncan Crawford, Roland Fenton, Lottie Fenton and Gina Fenton (All descendants of the Lansell family visiting from England. 11217.38b Part of Page - "Ancestral Home"non-fictionbendigo, fortuna, george lansell, duncan crawford

The Army Survey Regiment, formerly the Royal Australian Survey Corps, was the Australian Army’s primary military mapping and charting capability. Operating out of the historic Fortuna Villa in Bendigo from 1942 until its disbandment in 1996, it was the largest mapping entity in the Southern Hemisphere. In October 1988 the commanding officer Lieutenant Colonel J.W. Winzar outlined a proposal by the Australian Army's Historical Committee to restore part of the grounds surrounding the Fortuna mansion to their approximate 1900 appearance. The main objective was to Install a cast iron fountain with water recirculating equipment and pool; also to re-establish lawns and flower beds to match the historical layout from around 1900. The Scope of Works included removal of existing shrubs and a section of bitumen pathway; installation of the fountain and necessary plumbing. Also to replant the area with lawn and appropriate plants. The restoration focused on the main approach area to the Fortuna mansion, which was currently in need of renovation. The proposal references plans and photographs (in Annexes A, B, and C ) to illustrate the intended restoration area and its current condition.Fortuna Articles - Restoration of the gardens, and Scope of Works from the Australian Army. This item contains the following documents: 11217.71a An 8 x 6 inch black and white photo of Fortuna and its gardens (as it was in 1900) including the fountain and pathways. 11217.71b A quote from Plants and Sculptures, 10 High St Glen Iris for a cast iron fountain for $2,200 and includes hand-written letter and product release pictures from B and C Foundries Co. Pty Ltd 11217.71c Letter and Scope of Works from Lieutenant Colonel J W Winzar Commanding Officer of Fortuna to the Secretary, third Military District Historical Committee, Headquarters Third Military District, Victoria Barracks, Melbourne - Proposal to restore a portion of the Fortuna grounds. 11217.71d Photograph of the location for the fountain in 1988 11217.71e Sketch of new fountain, and restored pathways (5 copies of the sketch plus the original tracing) 11217.71f Plan of the works for the new landscaping. (7 copies) 11217.71g Plan - A3 Side elevation showing the new fountain 11217.71h Letters to suppliers and information (product catalogs) re the fountain and accessories 11217.71i Letter to the Chief Engineer HQ Third Military District - progress report as at May 1989 11217.71j Letters to Billman's Foundry Castlemaine for quote on lamp pole and fitting and seat ends; and to Ajax Foundry Kyneton for seat ends, included coloured photosnon-fictionbendigo, fortuna, george lansell, army survey regiment, fortuna fountain, lieutenant colonel j w winzar