Small resin statuette of Private Bull saving an American soldiermodel, ww2

Mounted Colour Photograph Collage of American Soldiers and equipment in Vietnam.Variousphotograph, united states - armed forces, us military equipment

Pocket size book of blue colour ix, [54] p. : ill., mapsnon-fictionIn 1942, the United States issued Instructions for American Servicemen in Australia as a quick guide to Australia's people, politics, history and culture for Americans stationed there during the Second World War. It was one of several similar sets of instructions put together by the US government to help its soldiers, sailors and airmen adjust to life abroad. 1942, american soldiers, australia

These are the stories Vietnam vets tell over beers at Legion halls and VFW posts - stories of young men tangled up in the chaos of landing zones and nameless jungle hill, in the boredom of base camps, in the confusion of a controversial war.vietnam war, 1961 - 1975, personal narratives, american, soldiers - united states - biography - ancedotes

Oral histories can never be better or more significant than the talk that went into them. By this measure alond BLOODS is superb. The twenty blacks who discussed their experiences while serving in the Viet Nam War are uniformly eloquent. vietnam war, 1961-1975- personal narratives, american, black american soldiers

A soldier's clothing and equipment are crucial for surviving on the battlefieldvietnam war, 1961-1975 -- equipment and supplies -- juvenile literature, military weapons -- vietnam -- history -- 20th century -- juvenile literature, weapons, gear, uniforms, american soldiers

An unremittingly honest look into the black pit of war.vietnam war, 1961-1975 - fiction, american soldiers

Black nylon banner with white print of circle with silhouette of guard tower, prisoner and barbed wire, with words POW & MIA You are not forgottenPOW MIA You are not forgottenmia, pow, missing in action, prisoner of war, american soldiers

Oral histories can never be better or more significant than the talk that went into them. By this measure alond BLOODS is superb. The twenty blacks who discussed their experiences while serving in the Viet Nam War are uniformly eloquent. vietnam war, 1961-1975- personal narratives, american, american black soldiers

This item was donated by Pte Stanley William Exon (3791206) who was a National Serviceman with the Royal Australian Army Service Corps. He served in Vietnam with 2 Transport Platoon RAASC from April 1968 to January 1969.A coloured photograph in a black/brown frame with a white matt. Photograph is a truck with a tarp on the back with two soldiers standing on the back of the vehicle. Behind the truck is an American plane with QG 721 on the tail of the plane.QG721pte stanley william exon, 3791206, australian national serviceman, royal australian army service corps, 2 transport platoon, photograph, australian soldiers, american aircraft, cargo truck

Made for Mr & Mrs William Moore, 7 Pitt Street, Bendigo by the mother of Charlie, one of 3 American Soldiers billeted during WWII.Dark brown wooden frame with glass front & white cardboard backing. Red top & gold bottom silk background with white woven lace border. Embroidery consists of Union Jack & Australian flags with souvenir of Egypt at top, Commonwealth Forces badge in centre & a floral arrangement under the badge.Embroidered at bottom: "To Lou & Will with love from Charlie"passchendaele barracks trust, embroidery, silk, eygpt, souvenir

A calling card given to Robin Russell an entertainer/dancer in Vietnam. Likely received as an invitation from an American soldier to meet up with him. It is a valid indicator of the sexist attitude to women during the conflict.Small light-weight white card with printed identification on front and contact information hand-written on back in red ink.Front - You have been watched by a member of / The International Society of GIRL Watchers/ 7 labelled tick the box selections/ Cover in red ink. Back - Gary Crow/ 600 photo sq/ Call between 7-10.00/ and get group/ picture taken.calling card, vietnam, robin russell, gary crow, international society of girl watchers, russell, entertainer, performer

In 1967, the U.S. Army issued boonie hats during the Vietnam conflict. They were made of cotton and wind resistant poplin, in olive drab. They were designed with vent holes, drawstring, and foliage ring - the tape/band around the base of the hat was meant to attach foliage as a means of camouflage. At the time the American soldiers introduced the slang term "Boondocks" this term was generally used to refer to remote locations.

From a collection of 253 images on slides taken while on deployment in Vietnam by Corporal Peter Stanley Sims (44304). He served in the Royal Australian Army Medical Corps, 1969 - 1970.Helicopter being loaded with treated soldiers at American 20 Surgical Hospital, Vietnam 1969/70.peter stanley sims, 44304, slides, royal australian army medical corps, vietnam war, sims, australian forces vietnam, hq australian forces vietnam, 20 surgical hospital, quonset hut

Safety razors had been developed in the mid-19th century, but still used a forged blade that dulled and rusted. In the 1870s, the Kampfe Brothers ( Germany) introduced a type of safety razor. Gillette improved these earlier safety-razor designs, and introduced the high-profit-margin stamped razor blade steel blade. Gillette's innovation was the thin, inexpensive, disposable blade of stamped steel. King Camp Gillette observed in 1902 that as existing, relatively expensive, razor blades dulled quickly and needed continuous sharpening, a razor whose blade could be thrown away when it dulled would meet a real need and likely be profitable. In 1918, when the U.S. entered World War I, the Gillette company provided all American soldiers with a field razor set, paid for by the government, and as they were allowed to take them at discharge they continued their use of this product thus ensuring future sales. An unused, wrapped, man's razor blade in a box. 7 O'clock brand '7 O'CLOCK / REGD. TRADE MARK / BLADES / DOUBLE EDGED shaving equipment. razorblades, safety razors, cheltenham, moorabbin, bentleigh, pioneers, early settlers

The final crossing of the Rhine and the advance into Germany changed the course of European history forever. Introduces men and women from bith sides - British, American and German soldiers and civilians - whose bravery and endurance made the final push through Europe the defining drama of WW2.Soft cover book with 144 pagessticker on inside page P Cooper (personal contact details included on sticker)

The Battle of Bataan is famous in history as one of the last stands of American and Filipino soldiers before they were overwhelmed by the Japanese Forces in WW11. The Bataan Death March was named after the province where the infamous March started. Approximately 75,000 Filipino and American troops on Bataan were forced to make an arduous 65 mile march to the prison camps.Wooden plaque with metal shield attached. Shield shows eagle with out spread wings standing on dark blue wreath with gold castle inside on light blue background.Shield is inscribed with BATAAN at top and the motto UNQUIBUS ET ROSTRO below.

This document is a personal and nostalgic account by Max CS Beck, reflecting on his childhood and Bendigo's social history during the 1950s and 1960s. Beck's father, Reg, owned and ran The Crown Hotel, which became a central social hub in Bendigo after World War II. The hotel was known for its lively atmosphere, especially during the '6 o'clock swill' when patrons rushed to buy and consume drinks before the 6 pm closing time. Colorful anecdotes, such as the story of a severed finger prank involving a tobacco tin, illustrate the camaraderie and humor among patrons. Drinking was a standing-only affair, with heavy smoking and loud conversation common. The ritual of last drinks and the clearing of the bar at closing time were daily highlights. Sawdust was used on the bar floor to manage spills and, humorously, to recover lost coins and even a diamond ring. The influx of American soldiers during the war brought new customs and challenges to local pubs, including currency confusion and overcrowding. Beck's father previously ran the Canadian Hotel in Seymour, which was popular with American troops. Beck recounts his mischievous childhood, including borrowing his father's car underage and the influence of hotel patrons on his upbringing. The narrative touches on the loneliness of having parents who worked long hours and hints at family struggles, particularly related to alcohol. Beck expresses a sense of loss for the Bendigo of his youth, noting how much the city and its culture have changed.He emphasizes the importance of treasuring memories of the past without grieving for what is gone.Bendigo Advertiser "Life the bar" and "the day a severed finger was in a pub" Sat Aug 08 2022 3486.56a Max C S Beck in front of the Old Crown Hotel 3486.56b Colour Photo Beck's Hotel Hargeaves St Bendigo in about 1980 3486.56c Article from the Bendigo Advertiser "Life the bar" and "the day a severed finger was in a pub"bendigo, beck's crown hotel, max c s beck

King Camp Gillette observed in 1902 that as existing, relatively expensive, razor blades dulled quickly and needed continuous sharpening, a razor whose blade could be thrown away when it dulled would meet a real need and likely be profitable. Safety razors had been developed in the mid-19th century, but still used a forged blade that dulled and rusted. In the 1870s, the Kampfe Brothers ( Germany) introduced a type of safety razor Gillette improved these earlier safety-razor designs, and introduced the high-profit-margin stamped razor blade steel blade. Gillette's innovation was the thin, inexpensive, disposable blade of stamped steel. Gillette's safety razor retailed for a substantial $5 half the average working man's weekly pay — yet sold by the millions. The most difficult part of development was engineering the blades, as thin, cheap steel was difficult to work and sharpen. This accounts for the delay between the initial idea and the product's introduction. To sell the product, Gillette founded the American Safety Razor Company on September 28, 1901 (changing the company's name to Gillette Safety Razor Company in July 1902). Gillette obtained a trademark registration (0056921) for his portrait and signature on the packaging. Production began in 1903, when he sold a total of 51 razors and 168 blades. The following year, he sold 90,884 razors and 123,648 blades, thanks in part to Gillette's low prices, automated manufacturing techniques and good advertising. By 1908, the corporation had established manufacturing facilities in the United States, Canada, England, France and Germany. Razor sales reached 450,000 units and blade sales exceeded 70 million units in 1915. In 1918, when the U.S. entered World War I, the company provided all American soldiers with a field razor set, paid for by the government, and as they were allowed to take them at discharge they continued their use of this product thus ensuring future sales. The company continues in the present day as the Gillette brand of Procter & Gamble, USA. Throughout the 20thC most men used this type of safety razor with disposable stainless steel razor blades to shave their beards prior to the introduction of affordable electric razors in 1960'sA blue packet of unused 'King Gillette' safety razor blades.on top of packet; Press with thumb / and snap end open / GILLETTE QUALITY THE / SAME THE WORLD OVER / FACTORIES IN / USA / CANADA , GREAT BRITAIN / MEXICO , FRANCE / COLUMBIA, GERMANY / BRAZIL, SPAIN / ARGENTINA, AUSTRALIA / GILLETTE TRADE MARK / KING C GILLETTE / RED. TRADE MARKS / GILLETTE (AUST.) PTY. LIMITED / MELBOURNE / DE 2023 / MADE IN AUSTRALIA / shaving equipment, safety razors, gillette king, proctor & gamble, moorabbin, bentleigh, cheltenham,

A smoothing plane is typically used after the work piece has been flattened and trued by the other bench planes, such as the jack, fore, and joiner planes. Smoothing planes can also be used to remove marks left by woodworking machinery. When used effectively alongside other bench planes, the smoothing plane should only need a handful of passes removing shavings as fine as 0.002 inches (0.051 mm) or less. The work piece is then ready to be finished, or can be further refined with a card scraper or sandpaper. The smoothing plane is usually held with both hands, and used in a similar manner to the other bench planes. Though designed for smoothing, a smoothing plane can be used as an 'all-round' bench tool and for rougher work depending on how it is set up. Being smaller than other bench planes, the smoothing plane is better able to work on smaller work pieces and around obstructions. Since the 1700s wooden smoothing planes have predominantly been 'coffin shaped' wider in the middle and slightly rounded making them more manoeuvrable. It has also been claimed that the coffin design exposes more end grain, enabling the plane to better adjust to changes in humidity. Henry Boker Maker: Heinrich "Henry" Böker of Reimschied-Solingen, Germany and his family was making tools in the 17th century. In 1829 Hermann and Robert Böker added sabres to the company's offerings, in 1837 they emigrated to New York City and established a firm to import German cutlery. H. Boker sabres would be eventually supplied to some American soldiers during the Civil War. Heinrich Boker in 1869 , a relative of Hermann and Robert, established a cutlery firm in Solingen, a centre of industry and cutting tool manufacturing in Germany. The company became a leader in the manufacture of razors, scissors and eating utensils. As early as 1900 the majority of tools produced by Boker were distributed in the U.S. market by the New York branch of the family, and pocket knives became the company's most important product line. During WWII the Solingen factory was destroyed and all the equipment and inventory was lost. After the war the factory was rebuilt and the company resumed operations, but in the early '60s the company was sold to the scissors manufacturer Wiss & Sons, and in the early 70s Wiss sold out to Cooper Industries. At some point Heinrich Boker adopted the Americanised version of his name, Henry Boker and was used as a brand name for the company's products. A vintage smoothing plane of the coffin pattern made by Henry Boker the item is a rare and significant example of vintage woodworking tools used in the manufacture of wooden items.Smoothing Plane Coffin design. Blade marked Henry Bokerflagstaff hill, warrnambool, maritime-museum, shipwreck-coast, smoothing plane, heinrich boker, carpenters tool, cabinet makers tool

A smoothing plane is typically used after the work piece has been flattened and trued by the other bench planes, such as the jack, fore, and joiner planes. Smoothing planes can also be used to remove marks left by woodworking machinery. When used effectively alongside other bench planes, the smoothing plane should only need a handful of passes removing shavings as fine as 0.002 inches (0.051 mm) or less. The work piece is then ready to be finished, or can be further refined with a card scraper or sandpaper. The smoothing plane is usually held with both hands, and used in a similar manner to the other bench planes. Though designed for smoothing, a smoothing plane can be used as an 'all-round' bench tool and for rougher work depending on how it is set up. Being smaller than other bench planes, the smoothing plane is better able to work on smaller work pieces and around obstructions. Since the 1700s wooden smoothing planes have predominantly been 'coffin shaped' wider in the middle and slightly rounded making them more manoeuvrable. It has also been claimed that the coffin design exposes more end grain, enabling the plane to better adjust to changes in humidity. Henry Boker Maker: Heinrich "Henry" Böker of Reimschied-Solingen, Germany and his family was making tools in the 17th century. In 1829 Hermann and Robert Böker added sabres to the company's offerings, in 1837 they emigrated to New York City and established a firm to import German cutlery. H. Boker sabres would be eventually supplied to some American soldiers during the Civil War. Heinrich Boker in 1869 , a relative of Hermann and Robert, established a cutlery firm in Solingen, a centre of industry and cutting tool manufacturing in Germany. The company became a leader in the manufacture of razors, scissors and eating utensils. As early as 1900 the majority of tools produced by Boker were distributed in the U.S. market by the New York branch of the family, and pocket knives became the company's most important product line. During WWII the Solingen factory was destroyed and all the equipment and inventory was lost. After the war the factory was rebuilt and the company resumed operations, but in the early '60s the company was sold to the scissors manufacturer Wiss & Sons, and in the early 70s Wiss sold out to Cooper Industries. At some point Heinrich Boker adopted the Americanised version of his name, Henry Boker and was used as a brand name for the company's products. A vintage smoothing plane of the Bismark pattern made by Henry Boker the this plane is now regarded as a collectors item and is an example of vintage woodworking tools used in the manufacture of wooden products.Smoothing Plane Bismark design. Blade marked Henry Bokerflagstaff hill, warrnambool, flagstaff-hill-maritime-museum, maritime-museum, shipwreck-coast, flagstaff-hill-maritime-village, smoothing plane, heinrich boker, carpenters tool, cabinet makers tool

See Cat 5109P1-3. Three page letters written in ink. The paper has the Australian Comforts Fund letterhead in red ink (RSL, Salvation Army & YMCA) - addressed to "My darling Marjorie" signed "From your loving boyfrien Ted". He mentions - Anniversary of the day the Japs "chased us out of Rabaul" air raids. He is in Victoria at time of writing. 4-5. Two page letter written in ink to "My Darling from "Love and kisses" Yours Ted. The letter is written from Goodnight, via Tooleybuc NSW 29 - 9 -1942. He mentioned farming, Bendigo and an electric iron surprise. 6 - 8. Three page letters on Comforts Fund letterhead paper. Written at 107 Con Depot, Ballarat. To "My Darling Marjorie" from "Love and Kisses" Yours Only Ted. He mentions weather, chocolate soldiers, Americans, Guadalcanal, here in Ballarat.ww2, romance, ballarat, americans

The collection revolve around Laurence Edward (Larry) O'Connor No.2508, enlisted 2.4.1917 in 21st Reinforcements, 13th Light Horse, embarked for England 21.11.1917. .1) On rear "Heap of Love 7 Kisses, In the best of health Larry". Another address on rear in "2515 TRP I.H. Westaway 18 Kinkorra road Hawthorn Vic" enlisted 3.8.1917 21st Reinforcements 13th L.H. Regt. embarked 21.11.1917 for England. .2), .3) & .4) All are "Larry O'Connor" on rear of .3) "8.11.17 To Mrs Ryan with best wishes from Linnie" .5) on front written in pencil "Uncle Larry" with arrow pointing to him. on rear "to Linnie with Love from Larry Dec 23.12.1918". across the top "??? Belgium " .7) On rear "To Linnie with best wishes Larry" "Taken in Glasgow June 28.6.1918" Larry is on the left of photo. .8) On the rear in pen "Your aff brother Larry" "Taken in Glasgow June 28.6.1918" Larry is on the left of photo. .9) One rear in pen - letter to "Dear Sister France Oct 23/1918" signed off "Your affectionate brother Larry". .10) Photo is Laurence (Larry) O'Connor..1) Postcard photo, black & white, two men on horseback, trees in the background. Brief letter on rear in pencil and ink. .2) Postcard photo, black & white, soldier sitting, wearing a cap, background clear. .3) Postcard photo, sepia tone, same as .2) but with brief note on rear in pen and pencil. .4) Postcard photo, black & white, portrait of a soldier in great coat and peak cap. .5) Postcard photo, black & white, three rows of soldiers, 24 in total in front of a building. .6) Postcard photo, black & white, 17 soldiers on horseback lined up in a row, trees in background. .7) Postcard photo, sepia tone, portrait of two soldiers in slouch hats. .8) Postcard photo, sepia tone, portrait of two soldiers without hats. .9) Postcard photo, colour, eagle at top, centre has oval frame with soldier centre, American, brown background, writing at bottom. .10) Photo, black & white, soldier standing with bandolier, peak hat, holding a crop.photographs, postcards, larry, 13th lh

Dr Michele Matthews has been a local and social historian for nearly three decades since she first used correspondence held by the then Bendigo City Council for her Honours thesis. She is an ardent advocate for the use of local history records to tell Victorian and Australian history from a grassroots perspective. Michele’s MA thesis, ‘A forgotten “Father” of Federation: Sir John Quick 1852‑1911’ (2003), and her PhD thesis, ‘Survivors, schemes, Samaritans and shareholders: the impact of the Great Depression on Bendigo and District 1925‑1935’ (2007), both drew heavily on Bendigo and district records. Michele used these articles as part of her research: The Bendigo Y.W.C.A. played a significant role in shaping opportunities for young women during the early twentieth century. It combined religious values with practical education, recreation, accommodation, employment assistance, and community service. By addressing women's social, educational, physical, and spiritual needs, the Association became an important institution within Bendigo, helping thousands of women develop confidence, independence, leadership, and a strong sense of community. Its work also contributed to broader social reform by improving women's access to education, employment, health, and civic participation. Michele Matthews Collection: PHD Research - The YWCA in Bendigo, Newspaper Articles and a publication (Author Unknown) This item includes the following documents: 8672.31a Newspaper (Unknown) Article coloured photo of Kylie Emonson who had been researching the YWCA and memorabillia, story by Nicole Strahn and photo by Brendan McCarthy. 8672.31b Newspaper (Unknown) Article coloured photo of Norma Cook sifting through old clippings and photos, story by Nicole Strahn and photo by Laura Scott. 8672.31c The article 8672.31c "YWCA: A Century of Achievements" celebrates the 100-year history of the Bendigo YWCA and its significant contribution to improving the lives of women and girls. Founded in the early 1900s, the organisation initially focused on helping women achieve financial independence by providing employment assistance, educational classes, and safe accommodation. It also offered practical training in subjects such as shorthand, dressmaking, and millinery, creating opportunities that were uncommon for women at the time. As the organisation developed, its services expanded to meet the changing needs of the community. The Bendigo YWCA established hostels and residences for women, provided affordable meals, and later introduced a wide range of programs supporting young mothers, migrants and refugees, women in business, and survivors of violence. It also promoted women's participation in sport by helping establish hockey and basketball teams and encouraging community involvement through theatre, singing, fitness, and holiday programs. During World War I, the YWCA even encouraged women to save money through weekly savings schemes. Although the YWCA was originally founded on Christian principles, the article explains that it evolved into an inclusive organisation focused on equality and empowerment rather than religion. According to Bendigo YWCA coordinator Kylie Emmerson, the organisation has always been committed to helping women become independent and providing opportunities that were often unavailable to them. Long-time member Norma Cook also reflects on the important role the YWCA has played in advancing women's rights and creating equal opportunities over many decades. The article concludes by describing the Bendigo YWCA's centenary celebrations, including a permanent sculpture and a public exhibition featuring decorated handbags representing each decade of the organisation's history. It also highlights several current programs, such as school holiday activities, community arts projects, self-protection classes, the Baby Dolls program for young mothers, the Bendigo Young Women's Network, the Encore exercise program for breast cancer survivors, and the Week Without Violence campaign. Overall, the article presents the Bendigo YWCA as an organisation that has continually adapted over the past century while remaining dedicated to supporting, educating, and empowering women and girls. 8672.31d Newspaper article from the Bendigo Advertiser, Sat March 22 1986. YWCA's great record of service by Maurie McDonald, black and white photo of one of the girls' basketball teams. 8672.31e Newspaper article from the Bendigo Advertiser, Sat March 22 1986. YWCA's great record of service by Maurie McDonald. The article traces the history of the Bendigo YWCA, which was established in 1906 following a public meeting inspired by representatives from the Melbourne YWCA. Founded to promote the spiritual, intellectual, social and physical development of women and girls, the organisation quickly became an important part of the Bendigo community. In its early years, it focused on meeting the practical needs of young women by creating an employment bureau, offering guidance on job applications and interviews, and recognising the need for safe and affordable accommodation for women moving to Bendigo for work. A major milestone came in 1919, when the YWCA purchased the Black Swan Hotel and transformed it into a residence for young women. The building provided accommodation as well as classes in home nursing, millinery, first aid, typing, bookkeeping, French and English. Beyond housing and education, the YWCA also became known for addressing controversial social issues of the time, including women's rights and sex education, by organising lectures and discussions that encouraged public debate. The organisation also played a significant role in promoting sport and recreation. In 1926, it helped establish Bendigo's first basketball association and later introduced softball to the city. During the Great Depression, the Black Swan became a refuge for girls and young women who had little hope of employment, providing companionship and support. Throughout World War II, YWCA members contributed to the war effort by washing and ironing for servicemen, writing letters, and organising dances and social events for Australian and American soldiers stationed in the region. The article highlights the contributions of several influential women who shaped the Bendigo YWCA over the decades. Members such as Vi Morgan, Loris Nankivell, and Mavis Carne expanded the organisation's programs and strengthened its role within the community. Their leadership helped the YWCA move beyond its original focus on accommodation and employment to become a centre for education, recreation, youth development and family support. From the 1960s onwards, the Bendigo YWCA broadened its services by introducing after-school care programs and developing the **Mother-Child Playgrounds Project**, an initiative that later became a model adopted throughout Australia. In 1968, it established the **Young Theatre Group**, providing hundreds of local young people with opportunities to develop confidence, creativity and performance skills. These programs reflected the organisation's commitment to responding to changing community needs. By 1983, the YWCA had moved to new premises at **465 Hargreaves Street**, where it continued to offer a wide range of services. At the time the article was written, these included school holiday programs, play schools, porcelain painting, stretch sewing, English and French classes, exercise and yoga, the Young Theatre, friendship groups, women's workshops and drama groups. Overall, the article celebrates the Bendigo YWCA's eighty-year history, highlighting its transformation from a support organisation for working women into a diverse community organisation that made lasting contributions to education, welfare, recreation and social development in Bendigo. 8672.31f Newspaper article from the Bendigo Advertiser, Mon Nov 04 1985. Family fun Fair in 79th Year, Black and white photo of YWCA Women in the 1920s, by Susan Masters. Front Row: Phyllis Ellery, Leah Wilson, Vi Clifton, Rene Truscott, Hilda Read and Vera Baker. Back Row: Glad Richardson, Elsie Talbot, Dorothy Ackland, Dorothy Hodden and Dorothy McKay. The photo has been scanned from the newspaper article. 8672.31g Newspaper article from the Bendigo Advertiser, Mon Nov 04 1985. Family fun Fair in 79th Year, by Susan Masters. The article celebrates the 79th anniversary of the Bendigo YWCA, highlighting both its upcoming annual family fun fair and the organisation’s long history of supporting women and the local community. The fair, to be held at Rosalind Park on **Saturday, November 16**, will feature amusements, cake and plant stalls, craft displays, horse and buggy rides, and a surprise visit by VFL footballers. Funds raised will support YWCA programs, with the Bendigo Zonta Club also assisting through a ceramics exhibition. The article explains that the YWCA has been a significant provider of services for women in Bendigo since **1906**, adapting to changing social needs over the decades. Public relations officer Jill Tobias notes that the organisation has always focused on supporting women, and early fundraising included donated pottery from Victorian artists and prizes contributed by prominent figures in the arts. A major focus of the article is the YWCA’s historical role in providing practical support for young women. In 1911, it established a "thrift club" that encouraged women to save small amounts of money each week. It also offered writing rooms, meeting facilities, and an employment bureau for girls. By 1919, the organisation had expanded into larger premises where it hosted educational lectures, including an early series of talks on sex education, reflecting its progressive approach to women's education. The article also highlights the YWCA’s commitment to accommodation and community support. It operated a hostel for young women for many years, beginning with the conversion of the "Black Swan" hotel and later moving to a larger building that continued as a youth centre until 1981. During the 1920s, the YWCA welcomed Swiss girls to Bendigo to work in local knitting mills, providing accommodation and helping them settle into the community. Beyond welfare services, the YWCA played an important role in developing women's sport in Bendigo. A basketball (later netball) association was formed in **1926**, while the YWCA’s hockey association enjoyed many successful seasons and hosted the Women's International Rules Basketball in 1969. The organisation also established a mother-and-child playgroup and a home tutor scheme for migrant women, demonstrating its broad commitment to community development. Looking ahead, the article notes that the YWCA hoped to continue evolving to meet changing community needs. Coordinator Judyth Jones encouraged new members to join the association, emphasising that the future success of its programs would depend on continued public involvement and support. 8672.31h Unknown Author 38 pages of the history of the YWCA in Bendigo. The document is an academic history of the Bendigo Young Women’s Christian Association (Y.W.C.A.) between 1906 and 1939, focusing on its establishment, development, activities, and contribution to women and the wider Bendigo community. Establishment of the Bendigo Y.W.C.A. (1906–1919) The Bendigo Y.W.C.A. was established in May 1906 as part of the wider Y.W.C.A. movement in Victoria. Its founders sought to improve the spiritual, social, educational, and physical wellbeing of young women, particularly those moving to Bendigo for work or study. Initially operating from rented rooms, the Association provided Bible studies, educational classes, recreation, and a safe meeting place. As demand grew, it expanded its services and, in 1919, opened a permanent hostel in the former Black Swan Hotel, offering affordable and secure accommodation for women travelling or working in Bendigo. Activities and Programs (1906–1939) The Y.W.C.A. believed in developing the "whole person" and therefore offered a broad range of activities beyond religious instruction. Members participated in educational classes, including bookkeeping, shorthand, languages, sewing, cooking, literature, and correspondence courses. Lectures addressed health, citizenship, family life, and social issues, encouraging women to become informed, confident, and capable members of society. Physical recreation formed another important aspect of the Association's work. Sporting competitions, basketball, tennis, gymnastics, marching, folk dancing, and exercise classes promoted healthy lifestyles and provided opportunities for friendship and leadership. Club activities fostered teamwork, confidence, and community spirit, while family and social clubs helped members develop lifelong friendships and a sense of belonging. Welfare and Community Service The Bendigo Y.W.C.A. extended its work well beyond its members. The hostel offered affordable accommodation, meals, and a supportive environment for young women, particularly those working away from home. During the Great Depression, the Association reduced boarding fees for women facing financial hardship, demonstrating its commitment to social welfare. The organisation also operated employment services, helping women find work while providing temporary accommodation. Other initiatives included the Thrift Club, which encouraged savings, and the Travellers' Aid Society, which assisted women and families travelling through Bendigo with accommodation, transport, and emergency support. Holiday accommodation was also provided for women needing rest or recovery. Response to the First World War During the First World War, the Bendigo Y.W.C.A. redirected many of its activities to support the war effort. Members organised fundraising, prepared care packages for soldiers, assisted military camps, and supported women whose family members were serving overseas. Educational meetings and lectures kept members informed about wartime conditions, while international Y.W.C.A. links strengthened members' awareness of global humanitarian work. Following the war, the Association promoted citizenship and leadership among young women through the Girl Citizen movement. These programs aimed to prepare women for greater social responsibility by providing education in health, family life, community service, and public citizenship. International Outlook The Bendigo Y.W.C.A. promoted international friendship and Christian fellowship through correspondence with overseas branches and participation in worldwide Y.W.C.A. programs. Members learned about different cultures, missionary work, and international issues through lectures, discussions, and exchanges with women from other countries. The organisation believed that understanding other cultures and fostering cooperation would contribute to world peace and responsible citizenship. Overall Contribution The study concludes that the Bendigo Y.W.C.A. played a significant role in shaping opportunities for young women during the early twentieth century. It combined religious values with practical education, recreation, accommodation, employment assistance, and community service. By addressing women's social, educational, physical, and spiritual needs, the Association became an important institution within Bendigo, helping thousands of women develop confidence, independence, leadership, and a strong sense of community. Its work also contributed to broader social reform by improving women's access to education, employment, health, and civic participation.bendigo, michele matthews collection, ywca

This camera, made by the American firm of Eastman Kodak, was the best-selling folding camera during the first half of the 20th century. This is the ‘autographic’ model as there is provision at the back of the camera for note-taking. This model was made between 1915 and 1926 and it is called the soldier’s camera because of its compact size. Over 1,000,000 cameras of this type were sold during World War One. This camera belonged to C.C. McNeil of Caramut, a town 55 kilometres north of Warrnambool. This camera is of interest as it belonged to a person from the Warrnambool district and it is a good example of a pocket camera with note-writing facilities. This is a black metal camera in a rectangular shape with rounded edges. It has three glass apertures and a metal winder. It also has an opening shutter at the back of the camera where notes can be written on to the paper backing of the film. The front of the camera opens and a concertina-like metal attachment affixed to the back of the camera can be pulled out to reveal the lens. This is covered in black leather. Printed information etched into the surface can be found in various locations around this camera. Vest Pocket Autographic Kodak U.S. Patents – Mar 4 1902, May 6 1913 Eastman Kodak Co. Rochester N.Y. U.S.A. Celia C. McNeil Caramut 20th century photography, history of warrnambool

This is a needle book containing needles. It appears that the Army and Navy Needle books were not issued to soldiers or sailors but were made for home use in the Western World - Europe, America and presumably Australia. They were made mainly in Germany and some were made in Japan but were not sold in wartime. They were sold before and after World War Two and often featured images of well-known ships of the day. This folder has images of the Europa and the Bremen, two ships made in Germany which belonged to the Norddeutscher Lloyd Line (N.D.L.) and which were launched in the late 1920s. They were the two most advanced high speed steam turbine ocean liners of their day. The Bremen was gutted by fire in 1941. The Europa was captured by the Allies in 1945 and used as a troopship, then it went to France where it was became an ocean liner named Liberte. It was scrapped in 1963. The newspaper cutting tells of a presentation by the Warrnambool Woollen Mill to Private Les Lawlor on his embarking for overseas service. It is not known to which war the cutting refers and no reference can be found to Private Les Lawlor. No connection between the two items (needle book and cutting) has been established but they have always been together in our collection. The needle book is of social significance but has no known local provenance. The cutting contains information suitable for our files.1 This is a piece of thickened paper folded in two to make a folder containing four packets of needles. The folder is green with two images of ships on the back and the front. The images are multi-coloured and have an ornamental edging. The needles of different sizes are contained in black paper folded four times to enclose the needles (13 still in the folded paper – all rusty). It appears one needle packet may be missing. .2 This is a cutting from a newspaper regarding a soldier leaving for overseas military service. There is no date.‘The Army and Navy Needle Book’ ‘Made in Germany’ ‘Silver Steel’‘Superior Quality Royal Drilldeyd Sharps 1 Made in Germany’ ‘Superior Quality Royal Drilldeyd Sharps 1/5 Made in Germany’ ‘Superior Quality Royal Drilldeyd Sharps 5 Made in Germany’ ‘Superior Quality Royal Drilldeyd Sharps 6 Made in Germany’ needle books, ship bremen, ship europa, private les lawlor, warrnambool woollen mill

1.2.3. Hardcover books with dust covers. Hardcover - cardboard, dark red colour buckram with gold colour print on spine. Dust covers - 1. Red, blue and black print on front, spine and back. Illustrated - black and white photograph of two soldiers with machine gun. 2, Dark blue and black print on front, spine and back. Illustrated - black and white photograph of a soldier with hand gun. 3. White and black photograph of two soldiers with machine guns. 2. & 3. Front 76-79 pages - cut, plain, white colour paper. Illustrated black and white photographs and diagrams. 2.3. Front endpapers - handwritten details and stamp. 2. Handwritten details - grey lead pencil "4.90". Stamp - purple ink "TECHNICAL BOOK & MAGAZINE CO/ 289-299 Swanston Street/ 323951-52 MELBOURNE" 3. Handwritten details - grey lead pencil "4-95".publications, books, infantry weapons, ww2, reference

American Military combat boots giving the appearance of having a black base colour and a top khaki appearance. These boots were worn by some Australian Vietnam Combat soldiers.“CIC 8W”passchendaele barracks trust, boots, american combat

This clock was originally in the front Office of the Soldiers Memorial Institute Bendigo on the mantlepiece of the fireplace. Original donor or date of being placed is unknown. It was last used in 2005 by Jack Barnes OAM who wound it every day he was in the Office, he was Secretary for 43 years of the BRSL. After the renovations to the SMI in 2016 - 18 it was placed on the mantlepiece of the fireplace in what is now called "The Building and RSL History Room"Mantle Piece Clock, timber frame, hinged glass cover over the face is missing, numbers are 1 - 12 on clock face, rear door to the mechanism, a pendulum weight is taped to the inside, no wind up key.On Clock face, "Gilbert". Around clock face, "Made in Winsted Conn United States of America"brsl, smirsl, mantle