Black and white photograph of George Lansell's bedroom at Fortuna villa. History of object: George Lansell 'The Quartz King', Fortuna Villa, Chum Street, Bendigo. Ornate furnishings of a bedroom of period showing half of room. Ornate wardrobe and mirror on marble topped table next to marble fireplace. W Ninnisplace, residential

Postcard. Fortuna Villa, Lansell's Family Home, Bendigo C, 1910.

Handwritten, 3 page carbon copy of a classification request for victoria Hill. Notes give locality, housing program in the area, immediate surrounds of the area, prominent citizens, buildings, mines, geographical formations and gold production. Notes prepared by Albert Richardson.mining, parish map, victoria hill, classification request for victoria hill, gold mines hotel, john brown knitwear factory, lansell's fortuna villa, army survey corp, housing commission, hercules, energetic, ironbark, manchester arms hotel, bendigo goldfield, old miners homes, george lansell, sir george lansell, bendigo advertiser, theodore ballerstedt junior, mr c t c johann ballerstedt, mr wm rae, david sterry, adventure, wittscheibe's 'jewellers shop', luffsman & sterry's rich claim, ballerstedt open cut and mine, lansells 180, victoria quartz, rotary club of bendigo south, bendigo cemetry

Slide. Old Chum Mine on New Chum Hill, image taken from rear of lake at Lansell's 'Fortuna' Villa. Mine buildings and poppet head in background, lake and vegetation in foreground.No. 3 on bottom of slidemine, gold, fortuna & old chum mine, bendigo mines-jack hattam collection

Black and white photograph of Old Chum Mine and New Chum Hill and Lansell's Fortuna with villa and lake. Lake in foreground.place, mining site, new chum

Plan drawn on waxed paper. Titled 'Section of Handrail, Geo Lansell Esq, Fortuna Villa. On bottom ' Nosing of steps'Vahland & Getzschmann, Architects, Sandhurst.bendigo, house, fortuna villa

A calendar for the year 1986 showing twelve B & W pictures of Fortuna Villa with two pages of history about George Lansell and Fortuna villa.buildings, house

Lansell's Fortuna Brochure -Stapled brochure -sketch of main entrance to Lansell's Fortuna Villa on the front cover /rear page shows 'Conceptual elevation for the development of Fortuna Villa by architect W.O. Beebe / the first page shows "Commanding Officer's Introduction 'with mention of George Lansell's most likely approval of the Army's acquisition of his property /the brochure contains black and white and coloured photosdocument, fortuna villa, lansell

Bendigo Advertiser ''The way we were'' from 2000. Luxurious: George Lansell's bedroom at Fortuna Villa. Picture courtesy Bendigo Historical Society. The clip is in a folder.newspaper, bendigo advertiser, the way we were

This document explores the myths, legends, and mysterious phenomena of the Goldfields region in Australia, focusing on several recurring themes: Numerous reports of large, exotic cats (such as black panthers and pumas) have been recorded in Victoria, with over 4,500 sightings documented by the Australian Rare Fauna Research Association since 1984.Notable individuals, like John Higgins and Paul Clacher, have provided detailed accounts and physical evidence (e.g., large footprints) supporting the existence of these animals. Theories about their origins include escaped zoo or circus animals, mascots released by American servicemen after WWII, or even the survival of the supposedly extinct Thylacoleo (Marsupial Lion). The Goldfields are reputed to be home to many ghosts, with frequent reports from locations such as Camp Hill Primary School, Castlemaine's Theatre Royal, and especially the historic Fortuna Villa.Accounts from both military personnel and civilians describe unexplained voices, apparitions, and other paranormal events within these historic buildings. Specific stories include encounters with apparitions, mysterious voices, and doors opening on their own, often witnessed by credible sources like army sergeants and captains. The document also references other unexplained phenomena in the region, such as UFO sightings and missing people, contributing to the area's reputation for mystery and intrigue.Fortuna Article - "Steeped in Mystery" Dec 01 2007 by Sarah Harris This item contains the following: 11217.33a Colour Photo of Fortuna, once home to the Lansell family, Fortuna Villa is now occupied by the Department of Imagery and Geospatial Organistion mapping unit, and apparently, some apparitions 11217.33b Colour Photo of Russel Henthorn with his camera and gear he used for a UFO photo in 1983 11217.33c Part of Page 4 - Article "Steeped in Mystery" non-fictionbendigo, fortuna, george lansell, russell henthorn

Mrs Edith Lansell (nee Bassford) from Bendigo, was the second wife of George Lansell, after his first wife, died in the late 1870s. Mr Lansell was a well respected a mine manager in Bendigo, making significant wealth and died in 1906. The first marriage didn't produce children, however his marriage to Edith resulted in six children from early 1880s, ensuring Lansell family heirs.Wooden box with plaque on the top ''Mrs. George Lansell''. Inside a large ornate black leather bound book with metal plaque ''In Memoriam''. On the first page a black and white oval photo of George Lansell, died Bendigo, March 19th 1906. The photo and words are surrounded by flowers. Next page a dedication to Mrs. George Lansell, Fortuna Villa, Bendigo April, 1906 with an eulogy from the representatives of the various companies in which Mr. Lansell was involved. The following three pages are full of cards from mining company with signatures of directors and managers. The Address states "Mrs George Lansell – “Fortuna Villa” Bendigo April 1906. Dear Madam, as representatives of the companies in which the late Mr Lansell took a special interest, being personally concerned in the management, we desire most respectfully but sincerely to express this sorrow felt at his death, not only by those now immediately constituting the management of the companies, but by the many hundreds of shareholders who reside all over this continent. Many of us have worked in cooperation with him for years and all are imbued with profound respect for the sound judgment, sagacity, strict impartiality and kindness of heart displayed by him. In all the varying fortunes through which his companies name here have passed, he was ever the same cheerful, enterprising hopeful man. Such success as has attended them is largely due to his association with the management and many who perchance did know him are now reaping the benefit of his courage and experience. His enterprises and judgment in presenting the operations of our mines and his tenacity of purpose in holding fast to ventures when disappointments were met and success was long delayed and seemed improbable have built up this district contributed largely to the wealth of many and found employment for thousands of workers for the past two generations. He has passed awa y in the fulness of years, but in passing he has left a name for enterprise and uprightness that will be as ensuring as the rocks themselves and he an example and incentive to generations yet to come. We tender our heartfelt sympathies to yourself and family in the great bereavement you have sustained and pray that God in his goodness may brighten your life with the devoted love of your family and bless you with many years of happiness and peace. On behalf of the companies named we subscribe ourselves. Yours most respectfully"person, individual, george lansell

Plan drawn on waxed paper. On top 'Side elevation' written in black ink, shows bottom treads of staircase, ornate bottom post of balustrade. On bottom of plan 'Ground Plan' written in black pen, 'Scale 1 Inch to a Foot' Plan contained in Fortuna Villa, George Lansell documents, although Fortuna Villa not written on plan.bendigo, house, fortuna villa

Plan of hot water heater, Fortuna Villa, drawn on heavy paper. On top of plan in red ink 'Plan of Hot Water Heater for G. Lansell Esq for Fortuna Villa Sandhurst' Drawings show front, transverse, longitudinal, back and side elevations of heater, also back, side and front elevation of individual water heaters, including one with ornate screen. On bottom of document: floor plans of ground plan and basement. Plan stamped on RH bottom: William C. Vahland, Architect, Sandhurst.bendigo, house, fortuna villa

This document by Beverley Carter, (Lansell family historian) explores the future potential of Fortuna Villa in Bendigo, emphasizing its significance for community, tourism, and economic development. The Defence Department has vacated Fortuna Villa after more than 60 years. There is an opportunity for public ownership, with state or local government having first refusal, ensuring community access. Fortuna Villa could become a major asset for Bendigo, enhancing its profile and supporting economic growth. Cultural tourism is highlighted as a rapidly growing sector, with visitors who stay longer and spend more. The success of recent cultural events in Bendigo, such as the Golden Age of Couture exhibition, demonstrates the city's capacity to attract international attention. The Villa Fortuna Action Group proposes transforming the site into a hub for cultural, commercial, and community activities. Suggested uses include concerts, festivals, exhibitions, heritage tours, retail outlets, community meetings, conferences, weddings, and fine dining. The document references successful models like Abbotsford Convent and Werribee Mansion in Victoria, and Hylands House in the UK, as examples of adaptive reuse. While acknowledging significant short-term costs, the document argues that long-term financial and social benefits outweigh these concerns. The project is seen as a way to diversify the local economy, create jobs, and foster business partnerships.The author rejects the notion that tough economic times should prevent investment, suggesting such projects can help mitigate downturns. Fortuna Villa is presented as a once-in-a-lifetime chance for Bendigo to secure a property that symbolizes the city's golden past. The author stresses the importance of a comprehensive, coordinated approach to tourism in the region, with Fortuna Villa as a potential centerpiece.Urgency: There is a strong call to action, suggesting that the community must act quickly to secure the property before it is lost to others. The document is authored by Beverley Carter, a member of the Lansell family, who is writing a detailed family history and a series on George Lansell and Fortuna Villa, further underlining the site's historical importance.Fortuna Articles - "A Vision for Fortuna Villa" Feb 20 2009 The Bendigo Advertiser by Beverley Carter, photo by Julian Prowd This item contains the following: 11217.36a Colour Photo of Fortuna 11217.36b Part of Page 14 - "A Vision for Fortuna Villa" 11217.36c Part of Page 14 - "A Vision for Fortuna Villa"non-fictionbendigo, fortuna, george lansell, villa fortuna action group, beverley carter

document: Description of Fortuna Villa prepared for open day. Historic information based on 'Lansell's Fortuna' tour guide booklet ( no date ) printed on bottom of document.place, fortuna, history, fortuna, bendigo, lansell's, lansell, heritage

Document ( part missing ) Fortuna Glimpses #3, Eventful Years, the 1870's at Fortuna Villa.place, fortuna, history, bendigo, fortuna, george lansell, lansell

Black and white photograph of Fortuna with lake in foreground. Poppet head and chimneys in background. Inscriptions: on front - 'W Ninnis' Photo Bendigo. Inscription on back: 'Old Chum Mine - New Chum Hill. Taken from rear, Lansell's Fortuna lake.' A. Richardson, 29 Harrison St., Bendigo.buildings, residential, fortuna villa, bendigo, mines and mining, mine, mines, mining, poppet head, old chum mine, landscape, mining landscape

Fortuna Villa George Lansell purchased Ballerstadt's claim on Victoria Hill for £30,000. The purchase included a two-story villa. Lansell extended the building in the following years with the last major additions in 1904 - 1905. Architects included Vahland and Getzschmann, W.C. Vahland and William Beebe. Contractors include J.K. McLean and W.H.Johns.Album, covered in blue fabric. Printed in gold lettering on front 'Photographs of 'Fortuna' Bendigo". Album contains 48 black and white photos of George Lansell's home, Fortuna, taken in late 1800s, ranging from photos of the interior of the house, the garden and the lake.place, fortuna, photo album, george lansell, gold mining, ballerstedt, victoria hill, historic building

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

A two page article from the Bendigo 'Advertiser' on 'Open Day at Fortuna.' Apart from information about Fortuna it includes photographs of some of the rooms at Fortuna including the Royal Australian Survey Corp's AHQ Survey Regiment mapping room. It also has other photographs within the house and in the grounds. 7/4/1970.bendigo, buildings, fortuna villa, lydia chancellor collection, collection, fortuna, homestead, house, houses, building, buildings, ahq survey regiment, royal australian survey corps, mapping, bendigo, fortuna employees, printing, army, colonel l. b. sprenger, national trust, george lansell, lansell family, heritage, place, house. houses

Composite Panoramic Black and White Photograph showing Fortuna Villa & surrounds with Lake in foregroundplace, building, residential, fortuna villa, mine, mining, fortuna, george lansell, christopher ballerstedt

Black and White Photograph of the exterior of the Fortuna Villa, There are 2 men rowing in a boat in the centre of the photo, 'Piece of Paper contained with Photos could be the details of the possible donor reads 'Sandra McLachlan, 5 Chaple Cross Crt, Delecombe 3556, 0432 718 315, '[email protected], 5336 1220'buildings, residential, fortuna villa, fortuna villa, george lansell, christopher ballerstedt, fortuna

Framed colour print of Fortuna Villa showing part of the building and lake, framed in a cream wooden and glass frame, markings read ' ''Fortuna'' Former home of the late Mr George Lansell, known as the Quartz King. This picturesque residence is now occupied by the RRSE Cartographic Unit'place, building, fortuna, fortuna, fortuna villa

Black and white photograph of Drawing Room ? Fortuna Villa, Home of the Lansell family, Chum Street, Bendigo. History of object: George Lansell - Quartz King, Bendigo. Photographed for Bendigo Advertiser 11.1.2000. Did Edith Lansell have some say in decoration and furnishing of this room? Note over stuffed chairs. Heavy drapes and lace curtains at windows mirrored back of statue alcove. All typical of period.W Ninnisbuildings, residential, fortuna villa

Black and white photograph of hallway decorated with many paintings, statures, chairs, etc. Decorated ceiling. History of object: James Lerk 2000 'Quartz King George Lansell's portrait hangs over the marble overmantle of the fire place in the foyer of 'Fortuna Villa'The bronze incense urns are now in the Bendigo Art Gallery collection'. Photographed for Bendigo Advertiser 11.1.2001W Ninnisbuildings, residential, fortuna villa

Bendigo Advertiser "The way we were" from 1999. Fortuna Villa: George Lansell pursued the deep reef mining industry and bought the rich 180 mine at Victoria Hill, after which he became known as the Quartz King. Within weeks of purchasing the mine he had recovered his outlay. After making so much money, he built Fortuna Villa, a resplendent building of two stories - six rooms on the ground floor and five on the second floor. Later the Lansell family enlarged the villa into three stories and furnished it suitable for any price, whereby it became an entertainment centre for notable visitors to Bendigo.newspaper, bendigo advertiser, the way we were

'Quartz King' George Lansell bought the modes two story Fortuna Villa in 1871 and began rebuilding with the zeal he had used to make himself Australia's richest man.Bendigo Advertiser half page story entitled 'Fortuna Villa Celebrations' with two photos, one of Fortuna and its former owner George Lansell.bendigo, fortuna, george lansell