Princes Court was an amusement park in Melbourne, located on St Kilda Road. Established in 1904, it closed its doors in 1909 after poor ticket sales due to Melbourne's temperamental weather. The park featured a toboggan ride and water chute ride where patrons inside open carriages were plunged down sloping structures from a height at great speeds. The park's other facilities and activities included a rifle range, a tug of war game, a Japanese tea house, a wine bar, a variety show, an open air cinema, and roller skating and bicycle races.This item contributes to our understanding of social life and recreation in early twentieth century Victoria. A souvenir booklet for Princes Court, an amusement park in Melbourne, printed for the years 1904-5. The booklet features photographs of the park's attractions, and advertisements for local businesses in Melbourne. wodonga, melbourne, princes park, amusement park, rides, fair, fairground, japanese tea house, st kilda

Kinkuna Amusement Park was opened 19 December 1987, closed 2002, building demolished or removed, land sold and subdivided into residential allotments.Copy colour photographic print showing Kinkuna Amusement Park on Princes Highway, owned by Joe and Shirley Walters. Photo shows main building and restaurant, mini golf, long taboggan on hill, garden and other attractions. Lakes Entrance Victoriaentertainment, recreation

"Dear Alice" Is a collection of 142 Postcards from Australia and around world, almost all of which are addressed to Miss Alice Evans, No. 2 Cox Gardens, Williamstown, dated between 1905 - 1909. These postcards form part of a collection found in the ceiling of No. 2 Cox Gardens by a local builder and carpenter Gordon Peterson. Peterson was contracted to demolish the house in the mid 1970's. The cards were held in the Estate of Gordon Peterson, along with a photo of the cottage, before demolition until donation to the historical society by his descendants in 2024. Alice Edith Evans was born in Williamstown in 1885 to parents Benjamin Samuel Evans (1833-1900), a bootmaker from Ruabon, Denbighshire, Wales and Catherine (nee Jones) (1850-1915) from Eaglehawk, near Castlemaine. Alice had three older step sisters, and two younger brothers, Benjamin and Samuel, who sadly died in infancy. Alice’s father, Benjamin, had been married previously, his wife dying during childbirth, leaving him with three daughters to care for. After leaving school, Alice was employed as a clerk with Trevor Jones & Co. (real estate agents), until her declining health prevented her from working. She was an active and well known member of the Welsh Church and Sunday School on Ferguson Street and enjoyed singing and playing in local concerts. Well known in the community, a Grand Benefit Concert was organised in her honour on 9th April, 1910, at the Mechanics Institute, Williamstown. Hosted by Mayor Cr. Wymark, the event featured a delightful program of musical performances, showcasing both individual talents and the Carlton Club Choir. Tragically, Alice passed away due to the effects of her illness on 3rd December 1910, at the age of just 25. She is buried in Williamstown Cemetery. The postcards, written between 1905 to 1906, illustrate the social history of residents and everyday life at the turn of the century, using postcards as a means of communication.Part of collection of 142 Postcards.This is a b&w photograph is of people enjoying a day out and entertainmentShooting the Chute, Princes Court, Melbournemelbourne, alice evans postcards, entertainment, amusement park

"Dear Alice" Is a collection of 142 Postcards from Australia and around world, almost all of which are addressed to Miss Alice Evans, No. 2 Cox Gardens, Williamstown, dated between 1905 - 1909. These postcards form part of a collection found in the ceiling of No. 2 Cox Gardens by a local builder and carpenter Gordon Peterson. Peterson was contracted to demolish the house in the mid 1970's. The cards were held in the Estate of Gordon Peterson, along with a photo of the cottage, before demolition until donation to the historical society by his descendants in 2024. Alice Edith Evans was born in Williamstown in 1885 to parents Benjamin Samuel Evans (1833-1900), a bootmaker from Ruabon, Denbighshire, Wales and Catherine (nee Jones) (1850-1915) from Eaglehawk, near Castlemaine. Alice had three older step sisters, and two younger brothers, Benjamin and Samuel, who sadly died in infancy. Alice’s father, Benjamin, had been married previously, his wife dying during childbirth, leaving him with three daughters to care for. After leaving school, Alice was employed as a clerk with Trevor Jones & Co. (real estate agents), until her declining health prevented her from working. She was an active and well known member of the Welsh Church and Sunday School on Ferguson Street and enjoyed singing and playing in local concerts. Well known in the community, a Grand Benefit Concert was organised in her honour on 9th April, 1910, at the Mechanics Institute, Williamstown. Hosted by Mayor Cr. Wymark, the event featured a delightful program of musical performances, showcasing both individual talents and the Carlton Club Choir. Tragically, Alice passed away due to the effects of her illness on 3rd December 1910, at the age of just 25. She is buried in Williamstown Cemetery. The postcards, written between 1905 to 1906, illustrate the social history of residents and everyday life at the turn of the century, using postcards as a means of communication.Part of the collection of 142 Postcards. B&W Image depicts the Water Chute, BendigoWater Chute, Bendigobendigo, victoria, alice evans postcards, entertainment, amusement park

The children from Bulla Primary School were taken on an excursion to Anakie Fairy Park, near Geelong, in the 1980s. They joined with a group of Asian exchange students on the day and explored the variety of fairy tale structures that have been erected in the park. A non- digital photograph of two girls on a swing while the group in the background are looking at a Tudor style arch. The photograph was taken in the Anakie Fairy Amusement Park.anakie fairy park, geelong, school excursions, bulla primary schooil

The photograph is one of a set that was taken when the children from Bulla Primary School enjoyed a school excursion to the Anakie Fairy Park neat Geelong in the 1980s. On that day they joined up with a group of young Asian exchange students and explored the various fairy tale exhibits that can be seen in the park.A non-digital coloured photograph of a boy standing in front of a statue of two monkeys in an amusement park. A brick castle like structure is on the LHS of the sculpture and conifer trees are in the background.anakie fairy park, geelong, bulla primary schooil, school excursions

Digital Photograph of a rollercoaster at Luna Park, St Kilda.luna park, rollercoaster, roller coaster, theme park, amusement, just for fun

Set of two photocopied plans or drawings on A3 sheets of "Candy Corner St Kilda" .1 - P8427 - Plan showing locality plan, detail plan and adjacent buildings - 6-12-1938 .2 - ditto, but not the detail of the building in the centre of the island - "Green Knoll" Cafe and Amusement Park.trams, tramways, drawings, depots, property, candy corner, st kilda, turning loops

Steam Locomotive - 1711 Peckett “Sir John Grice” Date built - 1926 Locomotive type ; Cranmore Original owner - Metropolitan Gas Coy., West Melbourne Original gauge - 762mm Withdrawn - 1941 Next owner - Whistle Stop Amusement Park, Frankston Built in 1926 for the West Melbourne site of the Metropolitan Gas Company, and issued to traffic the same year this saddle tank locomotive was named “Sir John Grice” in 1928. It was withdrawn from traffic in 1941 and stored until sold privately in 1962. In 1965 it was sold again and went to the Whistle Stop Amusement Park in Frankston and again stored until bought at auction by the Puffing Billy Preservation Society in 1974 and put on static display in the Steam Museum. Restoration started in 1978 and it was returned to service in 1981 painted light green with yellow lining. It is temporarily renamed “Thomas the Tank Engine” with a fibreglass “Thomas” body cover each time it appears in the “Thomas the Tank Engine” shows at Gembrook station.Historic - Industrial Narrow Gauge Railway - Steam Locomotive used at the Metropolitan Gas Coy., West Melbourne, Victoria, AustraliaSteam Locomotive made of steel, wrought iron Peckettpeckett “sir john grice”, 1711 peckett, puffing billy, steam locomotive, industrial narrow gauge railway, metropolitan gas coy., west melbourne

Black pool was one of the first seaside towns to experience middle and lower class visitations in the Edwardian period. The Blackpool tower is noted as an iconic landscape. "Blackpool is a seaside resort on the Irish Sea coast of England. It's known for Blackpool Pleasure Beach, an old-school amusement park with vintage wooden roller coasters. Built in 1894, the landmark Blackpool Tower houses a circus, a glass viewing platform and the Tower Ballroom, where dancers twirl to the music of a Wurlitzer organ. Blackpool Illuminations is an annual light show along the Promenade. Weather: 8 °C, Wind SE at 18 km/h, 81% Humidity Local time: Wednesday 8:44 am Postcode: FY1-FY4" wikipediaDigital images in colour

Was part of the Sunshine Technical School CollectionThe Stabbing by Tracey Mills|Ghost Town by Marion Walker|PEPE The Pigeon Who Ruled Sunshine by Anthony Micallef|The Phone Call by Kaelene Knott|Calder Park Finals Drag Racing March 1986 by Michelle Chatzidimitriou|My Dog Corky by Nicolle Meyers|The Day We Went Motor Bike Riding by Shane Hynds|The Mystery by Donna Tatlow|Annual Camp by David Shilling|Forces Vengeance by Jeff Ward|Sunshine Tech Bombed by Claudia Rundel|Mystery 2 by Donna Tatlow|Amazon Jungle by Barry Howard|An Experience Of My Own by Rodger Greaves|Best Friends by Vicki Psomiadis|The Book And Me by Amanda Alldis|Deadley Mistake by Corey Havarc|The Gate Of Imagination by Rachel Masuglia|The Picnic by Dion Beasley|The Magic Seeds by Tracey McDonagh|The Drowing by Mark Herrick|The Day I Wagged School by Michael Sammut|The Magic Seeds by Tracey McDonagh|The Ghost That Never Spooked by Chris MacDonald|Amusement Park By Tracey McDonagh|Lost Treasure by Allen Carrick|Ghost Train by Nikkie Pottersunshine technical school, technical school

This wooden juggling club or exercise club may also be referred to as a juggling pin. It is very similar in shape to a bowling pin or an Indian club. It dates approximately to the early 20th century. It may have been used as one of a pair for gymnastics or exercise, or part of a larger set used by a juggler for entertainment in a circus or carnival. At some time it may have been used with a ball or disc as part of a Skittles or bowling game set. The historical collection of Federation University Australia, Victoria, includes a very similar but slightly shorter club, labelled ‘timber skittle”, as can be seen in their photograph. Another example of very similar-shaped, same-sized clubs can be seen in the collection of Nobelius Heritage Park and Emerald Museum, Emerald, Victoria. JUGGLING Jugglers entertain audiences with their tricks and routines at events such as circuses, amusement parks, parties, shows on television or theatre, schools and parties. Juggles also compete at International Championships to obtain world records, performing as individuals or in groups or teams. Contemporary champion juggler David Cain performs a Juggling History Show that both entertains and educates his audience. His routines date from the early 1600s to the 20th century. He uses a wide variety of equipment in his acts including juggling clubs. EXERCISE Exercise clubs or Indian clubs were used in 19th century Victorian times as part of exercise or strengthening programs when they were swung in certain patterns and movements. Even in the early 20th century workplace a few minutes of Indian club swinging was common practice for the relief of tension. A video clip of an American school room in 1904 shows a group of boys and girls skilfully wielding clubs in an exercise sequence (see ‘Links” section). The 1904 and 1932 Olympic Games had an event called Club Swinging. Rhythmic gymnastics was added to the Olympic Program at the L.A. Games in 1984 where competitors use apparatus such as rope, hoop, ball, ribbon and clubs. The clubs come in a variety of weights and heights and have been used from the mid-1800s until around the 1930s in schools and military institutions. They are decorated in a variety of patterns and colours and some have feature lines or scored rings on them. This juggling club is significant for its association with education, entertainment and sport in the late 19th and early 20th century.Wooden juggling club (or pin, skittle or Indian club). Vintage, bottle-shaped club with a flat, slightly concave, base. Its turned, solid timber body tapers out from the base then in again to a very narrow handle with a round knob joined onto the top. Two concentric feature lines are scored into the wider part of club. It was possibly used in exercise, gymnastics or as a skittle. Sections of the club have two brown painted stripes; paint on the lower strip has been worn off at the base . There are remnants of white paint in two areas, possibly the remains of a maker’s name or decoration. There also appears to be an inscription stamped into the wooden handle but this is illegible. Late 19th to early 20th century.Remnants of what appears to be stamped lettering and painted labelling.flagstaff hill, warrnambool, shipwrecked coast, flagstaff hill maritime museum, maritime museum, shipwreck coast, flagstaff hill maritime village, great ocean road, wooden skittle, entertainment, bowling skittle, wooden juggling pin, wooden juggling club, wooden exercise club, indian club, exercise club, club swinging, rhythmic gymnastics, sport equipment, juggling equipment, wooden club

The locomotive was supplied new by Decauville to the Metropolitan Gas Company Ltd, Melbourne, for use at their gasworks in West Melbourne, where it was named Carbon suppied in 1889 (Couillet builder's number 986, Decauville serial number 90). It was named Carbon. The West Melbourne gas works sourced its coal from Maitland, New South Wales, and the coal was brought by ship to a wharf adjacent to the West Melbourne gas plant. John Benn and Carbon were used to haul the coal over a 762 mm (2 ft 6 in) gauge railway from the wharf to the gasworks, a distance of about 450 metres (500 yards). West Melbourne Gas Works No. "Carbon" Wheels: 0-4-0T Builder: Couillet Build Date: 1890 Construction No.: 986 Empty Weight: Unknown Weight on Drivers: Unknown Driver Diameter: Unknown Tractive Effort: Unknown Boiler Pressure: Unknown Cylinders: Unknown Fuel: Coal Gauge: 30 Decauville locomotives The firm Société Anonyme Decauville located at Petit Bourg, France, was founded to manufacture light railways pioneered by French farmer Paul Decauville to transport crops from the field in 1875. Decauville began designing their own locomotives in 1882, although initially manufacture was contracted out to other builders, notably the Belgian firm Hainault at Couillet Although not well known in Australia, in Europe Couillet was a significant builder of steam locomotives of many different gauges and sizes over a long period of time. The locomotive was supplied new by Decauville to the Metropolitan Gas Company Ltd, Melbourne, for use at their gasworks in West Melbourne, where it was named Carbon (986) . Carbon ( 986 ) The locomotive weighs approximately seven tons. It has the Couillet builder's number 986. of 1889 It was built for Decauville & Cie. of Paris, suppliers of portable and industrial railway equipment, and has their serial number of 90 of 1890. Built in 1889 for the West Melbourne site of the Metropolitan Gas Company, it is a four-wheel tank locomotive and was named “Carbon”. It was withdrawn from service in the 1930s and stored until sold privately in 1962. For a few years in the 1960s it was used on a circle of track at Walhalla, before going to the Whistle Stop Amusement Park in Frankston. Although a number of similar locomotives still exist, as far as is known Carbon is the only one still operating in its original condition. Historic - Industrial railways - Metropolitan Gas Company Ltd, Melbourne Steam Locomotive Small Decauville Couillet Steam locomotive. - Iron & wrought iron framesCouillet builder's number 986, Decauville serial number 90puffing billy, narrow gauge, industrial narrow gauge railway, couillet 986, decauville 90, steam locomotive, metropolitan gas company, carbon

Princes Bridge Centenary pylons under construction Possibly taken from Young and Jacksons Hotel (formerly Princes Bridge Hotel) on the corner of Flinders and Swanston streets, Flinders Street Station’s clocks and main entrance dominate, along with its distinctive copper dome and decorative façade. The time on the main clock is 1.40pm, and the sign underneath, reflecting Melbourne’s upcoming Centenary reads, “We must accommodate our Centenary visitors! Citizens! Do your share by taking paying guests.” At left is the original Princes Bridge Station, today the site of Federation Square. The riverside tram terminus advertises a Café/Tobacconist/Refreshment Room selling cigars & cigarettes, fountain drinks & confectionery, and in smaller text: “Leave your boot repairs here”. Nearly everyone is dressed in dark suits, coats and hats. The footpaths are wide and there are no traffic lights. The roadway stretches towards the Shrine of Remembrance, not yet dedicated but very dominant on the skyline. Government House is clearly visible across the wide parkland that would come to be known as Kings Domain and that is an area of deep importance to the people of the Eastern Kulin. Originally, Birrarung was part of a network of swamps and lagoons linked to the course of the river. From 1896, Public Works Department engineer Carlo Catani, oversaw a new channel to straighten the river and the swamps and lagoons were filled with spoil from the channel works. From the same vantage point today, only the top of the tower of Government House would be visible. The photo captures the pylons along Princes Bridge, mid-construction and being installed to mark Melbourne’s Centenary. The pylons were not without controversy. Both The Argus and The Age bemoaned them for being “made almost entirely of imported softwood timber”, denying work to native hardwood timber workers and sawmillers, and leading visitors to think Australia did not have its own exceptional native hardwoods. The pylons were also variously described in their incomplete state, as unimaginative and resembling an oilfield. Published: The Age 5 September 1934 Featured in "Newsworthy: Melbourne in photographs 1933-1936" exhibition at East Melbourne Library, October to December 2023. Exhibition caption by project volunteer, Louise McKenzie Photographer notations on slide: "Pylons + St Kilda Rd C57" Published: Age (Melbourne, Vic. : 1854 - 1954), Wednesday 5 September 1934, page 11 Published title: DECORATIONS -- THEN AND NOW. Published caption: "Although not completed yet, some impression of the effect of the decorations on Princes-bridge may be obtained from the first picture which shows the majestic sweep of St Kilda road with the Shrine of Remembrance and Government House dominating the horizon. The area to the left of St. Kilda-road and in front of Government House is portion of the area which it is proposed to call the King's Domain, which extends to Domain-road and Anderson-street..." Description: East-facing, elevated view of Flinders Street Station and Princes Bridge, featuring partially completed pylons erected for Melbourne's Centenary celebrations. The Shrine of Remembrance and Government House can be seen in the distance. In the foreground are trams, cars and trucks, pedestrians, Batman Avenue tram terminus and refreshment rooms. Signage on Flinders Street Station encourages citizens to accommodate Centenary visitors. The Melbourne Centenary was held 1934-35 in celebration John Batman's proclamation that Melbourne "the place for a village". Centenary events included a visit by Prince Henry, Duke of Gloucester. A Centenary Cake measuring 50 feet in height and ten tons in weight was cut into 250,000 pieces and sold at 1 shilling per piece for charity. Spectacular floodlighting of city landmarks, the creation of the Pioneer Women's Memorial Garden, and the MacRobertson Air Race from London, were other notable activities. Research by project volunteer, Louise McKenzie: The photo in The Age collage of 5 September 1934 has a slightly cropped foreground. The original photo has been taken from an elevated vantage point, most probably the roof of the Nicholas Building on the corner of Flinders and Swanston streets. The right foreground is dominated by the main “clocks” entrance to Flinders Street Station, showing its distinctive copper dome and decorative façade. The time on the main clock is 1.40 pm. The main sign on the front of the Station reads, "We Must Accommodate our Centenary Visitors! Citizens! Do your share by taking paying guests. Write to The Official Centenary Accommodation Bureau, 436 Collins St. City. Tel M 4671”. Another sign at eye level at the main entrance says: “Cheap Trips on Sundays”. The sign on the end of the roof along the eastern side of the station reads, “The Babies Need Your Help! Support Broadmeadows Foundling Hospital Appeal. July and August”. Run by the Sisters of St Joseph of the Sacred Heart, St Joseph’s Foundling Hospital was a purpose built infants’ home for up to 300 babies, plus accommodation for expectant mothers, mainly single women. In the early 1930s, the department (Victorian Children’s Welfare Department) contracted St Joseph’s Foundling Hospital to care for an additional 60 infant state wards, and up to 175 non wards at any given time. In 1931 it also operated a mothercraft training school. The centre foreground shows the commencement of Princes Bridge. Beneath the left side of the bridge was the site of the original Princes Bridge Station, by this time incorporated into Flinders Street Station, and today the area is the site of Federation Square. It was linked to Flinders Street station by the railway tracks that ran underneath the northern approach to the bridge. This photo shows a tram terminus which has a Café/Tobacconist/Refreshment Room, selling cigars & cigarettes, fountain drinks & confectionary, and a sign: Leave your boot repairs here. In the foreground is a wide roadway running south/north, comprising two vehicle lanes each heading north/south, and a central section containing two sets of tram tracks. There are cars, buses and delivery vans on the roadway. The trams visible are Glen Iris (Route No. 6; tram no. 448), Toorak (Route No. 8, tram no. 333), ? (No. 7), ? (No. 1), and ? (No. 2A). The footpaths are extremely wide. There is a square newspaper/magazine stand on the eastern side footpath. And also a “Ferry” sign. There are no traffic lights, but a policeman is visible on the roadway. There are pedestrians – men, women, children, a porter with trolley, women with prams. Clothing comprises dark suits, coats and hats for nearly everyone. There are double headed “Collins Street” lights along the side of the roadway, and along the northern riverbank. The roadway in the foreground is an extension of Swanston Street, which becomes Princes Bridge, then St Kilda Road, stretching towards the Shrine of Remembrance, and diverting past it. The Shrine had not yet been officially dedicated, and looks very white and dominant on the skyline. On the LHS of St Kilda Road, Government House is clearly visible across the wide parkland to be known as Kings Domain. The Kings Domain area is important to the people of the Eastern Kulin nation, and also has historical importance for its association with the early settlement of Melbourne and the foundation of British colonial administration in Victoria. On the southern side of the Yarra River (Birrarung) an historic rowing boathouse is visible, located adjacent to the Alexandra Gardens. Originally Birrarung was part of a network of swamps and lagoons linked to the course of the river. From 1896, under the guidance of engineer Carlo Catani* a new channel to straighten the river was created and the swamps and lagoons were filled with spoil from the channel works. The gardens were then created and completed in time for a Royal visit by the Duke of York in May 1901. The gardens are named after Alexandra of Denmark, the wife of King Edward VII. Both these areas, plus the Royal Botanic Gardens Victoria, Shrine of Remembrance Reserve, Sidney Myer Music Bowl, Government House, and the Queen Victoria Gardens together form the Domain Parklands. The extent of the subsequent plantings is evident today, where from the same vantage point only the top of the tower of Government House would be visible. *Catani was born in Florence in 1852, but after arriving in Melbourne worked as a civil engineer for the Victorian Government. His last major project was the reclamation of the foreshore of St Kilda, envisaged in the style of a European resort, complete with a split level esplanade, bathing pavilions, dance halls, amusements and a French-Italian style of landscape complete with palms. The gardens at the end of Fitzroy Street, St Kilda, now bear his name. The historic boathouse visible across the Yarra is another glimpse into Melbourne’s past. “Boathouse Row” comprises 7 amateur rowing clubs, the first established in 1859 (Melbourne University Boat Club). Other Clubs were Richmond, Melbourne, Banks, Melbourne Grammar School, Yarra Yarra and Mercantile. South of the river and west of the bridge is an area today developed into the Melbourne arts precinct of Hamer Hall and the Arts Centre. But at this time it was the home of Wirths Olympia Circus, which comprised Wirths Pleasure Park (an amusement park), a 5,000 seat auditorium – Hippodrome, a roller skating rink, a glaciarium, a cinema, and the Green Mill Dance Hall. Dog shows were also held at Olympia. The Green Mill Dance Hall closed in 1950, and the remainder of the Wirth buildings on site were destroyed by fire in December 1953. The feature of the photo is the pylons erected along Princes Bridge to mark Melbourne’s Centenary in 1934. The sixteen plastered pylons were designed by Roy Prentice, the second person to qualify as an architect at The University of Melbourne’s Bachelor of Architecture degree, in 1933, aged 27. Simon Reeves in his article marking the 100th birthday of Roy Prentice on 20 June 2006 reports that the State Electricity Commission sponsored this work, and the Argus reported that “… the pylons were “illuminated from within to give the effect of soft radiance”. Australia Home Beautiful 1 Oct 1934 reports in a very detailed and comprehensive article: The 10 taller pylons, including flagpole, were 48 ft, with a base of 8 ft. Timber-framed and faced with fibrous plaster and galvanised sheet iron, each structure was securely bolted to a concrete foundation three feet in depth. Panels of glass let into the shaft of each pylon were indirectly lit by 40, 100 watt lamps, and the upper bank of internal lamps were dyed so as to flood the panels with a deep red light. The decorative painted shields and flagpoles/pennants were illuminated by three 200 watt projectors concealed in the roof of each pylon, and were part of an electric night light decoration scheme involving 28 miles of wire to supply more than 20,000 lights. An article in the Argus on 18 October 1934 provided minute detail of the lighting erected in Melbourne for the Centenary, converting it “… into a coloured fairyland by night.” The estimated cost of 10 pounds per hour the lights were on. The display included 800 standard light poles 30 feet high which were tiered with electric bulbs concealed in inverted cones, 138 specially designed “Venetian poles” draped in flags trophies and streamers. The streets included in the electric night light decoration scheme were Bourke Street from Spring to William, the entire length of Collins Street, Flinders Street from Elizabeth to Spring, Lonsdale Street from Elizabeth to Swanston, Swanston and Elizabeth Streets from Flinders to Lonsdale, and parts of Springs and Spencer Streets. Together with the Princes Bridge pylons, approximately 28 miles of wire was required to supply power to the more than 20,000 lights. And that is just in the city of Melbourne. It was estimated the same amount of lighting was duplicated among other local councils. The pylons were not without controversy. The Argus on 28 August 1934 in an article headed “Imported Timber in Pylons” reported that the Princes Bridge pylons are “made almost entirely of imported softwood timber”, and have therefore denied work to native hardwood timber workers and sawmillers. The same day the Melbourne Age ran a similar story, bemoaning the fact that foreign oregon had been used which may lead tourists to think Australia did not have its own exceptional native hardwoods. A Camberwell City Councillor described the pylons as unimaginative, and the Herald reported that skeletons of pylons for the Centenary decorations in their present form led the area to resemble an oilfield! The Yarra River and Princes Bridge have long been a focal point of Melbourne life. In the early days of European settlement in Melbourne a rope-hauled punt carried people across the Yarra River. A surge in population and increased shipping traffic created a need for a bridge. There was difficulty in agreeing on a suitable site for the bridge (options were crossing at Elizabeth, Swanston, Queen or Market Streets), but the NSW Government favoured Swanston Street and the Melbourne Town Council decided on a temporary bridge across the Yarra spanning from the foot of Swanston Street. This first bridge was a single span timber toll bridge designed by Scottish born bridge designer David Lennox, and completed in 1845. It was 120 feet long, had a roadway of 17 feet wide, and a footpath on one side of 4 feet. It was leased to the Melbourne Bridge Company in the name of Robert A Balbirnie. The tollhouse was on the north side of the river and the toll keeper, Patrick Doherty, was credited with saving nine lives during the four years he was in charge of the toll station. The second bridge was stone (completed 1850), and named Prince’s Bridge after the HRH Prince of Wales, later Edward VII. It was designed with an elliptical single arc and an exceedingly small rise in proportion to the span. However, this design created an obstacle for flood waters, and together with Melbourne’s increasing population it was quickly apparent that a new bridge was required. At its opening on 15 November 1850 coincided with the imminent declaration of Victoria as a separate colony, it provided a moment of great celebration for Melbournians and “The opening ceremony was described as the grandest processional display witnessed in the colony.” (ToMelbourne.com.au) Princes Bridge in its present form, as depicted in this photograph, was designed by Jenkins, D’Ebro and Grainger, and constructed in 1886-88 by David Munro. John Grainger (father of Australian composer Percy Grainger) did the majority of the design work for the bridge. The structure was to have three arches each 96 feet wide measured across the river, and the banks on both sides were raised to allow more space for floodwater to flow. St Kilda Road was originally many feet below the current level. The bridge is of architectural significance for its substantial size, giant half columns, extensive use of wrought and cast iron, decorative elements (cast-iron lamps) and the skilled stonemasonry in the construction of the abutments and piers. Its main design features are similar to those of Blackfriars Bridge in London (1870). The bluestones were quarried from Footscray, the Malmsbury stones were from quarries at Kyneton, and the granite from Harcourt. The cost was met by the State of Victoria, City of Melbourne, and six out of seven of its municipalities, and their coats of arms feature on the bridge. The building of the bridge reflected the boom period of Melbourne, including the Victorian gold rush 1851- late 1860s, and its contractor, David Munro, was also responsible for the construction of Queens Bridge and Sandridge Railway Bridge. The Centenary pylons are no longer in place, but today this intersection still plays a major part in Melbourne’s daily life: people still meet “under the clocks” at Flinders Street station, and the route in and out of the city along St Kilda Road is often a feature of parades such as Moomba, the Grand Final Parade, and of course the Anzac Day Parade which commences at the Princes Bridge intersection and finishes at the Shrine of Remembrance. There are many tram routes, which cross the Bridge, and it directs pedestrians towards the Arts Precinct, the various components of Domain Park, plus the Southbank restaurant and rowing precincts. Even though this is a street scene, it feels very intimate; the viewer is instantly immersed in the activity of a Melbourne afternoon, looking down St Kilda Road from a viewpoint near today’s Federation Square. References: DECORATIONS -- THEN AND NOW. (1934, September 5). The Age (Melbourne, Vic. : 1854 - 1954), p. 11. Retrieved September 21, 2023, from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article205880269 'Flinders Street railway station', Wikipedia, https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Flinders_Street_railway_station 'St Joseph’s Foundling Hospital (1901-75)', Finding Records, Department of Health and Human Services, State of Victoria, https://www.findingrecords.dhhs.vic.gov.au/collectionresultspage/St-JosephsFoundling-Hospital-Babies-Home#departmental-administration 'Alexandra Gardens', City of Melbourne, https://www.melbourne.vic.gov.au/community/parks-open-spaces/major-parks-gardens/Pages/alexandra-gardens.aspx 'Wirths Circus', Wikipedia, https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Wirth's_Circus 'Roy Prentice: Centenary Architect', Built Heritage Pty Ltd, Simon Reeves, https://www.builtheritage.com.au/downloads/prentice.pdf 'Princes Bridge', Heritage Council Victoria, https://vhd.heritagecouncil.vic.gov.au/places/817 PORT PHILLIP. (1846, April 1). The Sydney Morning Herald (NSW : 1842 - 1954), p. 3. Retrieved September 21, 2023, from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article12886251 'Edward VII', Wikipedia, https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Edward_VII 'Princes Bridge', ToMelbourne.com, https://tomelbourne.com.au/princes-bridge/ 'Princes Bridge', eMelbourne, https://www.emelbourne.net.au/biogs/EM01189b.htm 'Princes Bridge', Australia for everyone, http://australiaforeveryone.com.au/files/melbourne/princes-bridge.html 'Victorian gold rush', Wikipedia, https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Victorian_gold_rush IMPORTED TIMBER IN PYLONS (1934, August 28). The Argus (Melbourne, Vic. : 1848 - 1957), p. 9. Retrieved September 21, 2023, from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article10952507 Princes-Bridge Pylons. (1934, August 28). The Age (Melbourne, Vic. : 1854 - 1954), p. 7. Retrieved September 21, 2023, from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article205532235 Pylons Appear Near Princes Bridge (1934, August 18). The Herald (Melbourne, Vic. : 1861 - 1954), p. 1. Retrieved September 21, 2023, from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article243104375 PRINCES-BRIDGE PYLONS. (1934, September 20). The Age (Melbourne, Vic. : 1854 - 1954), p. 10. Retrieved September 21, 2023, from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article205873535 28 Miles of Wire (1934, October 18). The Argus (Melbourne, Vic. : 1848 - 1957), p. 1 (The Junior Argus). Retrieved September 21, 2023, from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article10977836 'Historical references for Boathouse Row, Melbourne', http://boathouserowmelbourne.com.au/history/ 'ITALIAN DELEGATION TO HONOUR CARLO CATANI, DESIGNER OF THE ST KILDA FORESHORE, St Kilda Historical Society, 2001, https://web.archive.org/web/20070928061938/http://www.skhs.org.au/~SKHSarticles/articles/Carlo_Catani.html# HISTORY IN LIGHTS (1934, July 12). The Herald (Melbourne, Vic. : 1861 - 1954), p. 16. Retrieved September 21, 2023, from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article243172436 'Dressing Melbourne for the Duke', The Australian home beautiful: a journal for the home builder. Vol 12 No. 10 (1 October 1934), page 21, 58. Retrieved September 14, 2023, from http://nla.gov.au/nla.obj-2950922209Photographer notations on slide: "Pylons + St Kilda Rd C57".centenaries, bridges, lighting, flinders street railway station

Three photos of a trip to Melbourne's Luna Park in 2001 for a group of junior legatees. The photos were mounted in an album of events that happened for Junior Legatees in 2001, including a trip to the Aquarium, a trip to Luna Park, horse riding and fishing and a Melbourne Legacy Leadership Group Christmas party. Melbourne Legacy arranged many events for Junior Legatees to experience. A record of the outings provided for Junior Legatees organised by Legacy.Colour photo x 3 of Junior Legatees on a trip to Melbourne's Luna Park in 2001.Yellow label printed 'Luna Park 2001'.junior legatee outing, amusement parks, junior legatees

Digital Image of the entrance to Luna Park in St Kilda, Victoria. luna park, entrance, mouth, amusement, fun palace, st kilda

Daylesford is a tourist town in Central Victorian, known for its mineral water springs.Caravans in Victoria Park Camping Ground, DaylesfordDaylesford, Victoria, Australia This famous holiday resort is famous for its up-to-date facilities, as well as for its natural attractions. The mineral Springs are renowned for their high medicinal elements. The visitor finds ample to amuse, in excellent fishing, boating, Boating, Swimming, golfing, hiking and riding. The district provides a wide range of typical Australian bush scenery, and the altitude of 2,000 feet above sea level as a tonic effect on all. Daylesford has modern hotels, guest houses, shops and places of amusement, also many other places of interest within short travelling distance. Bendigo, 50 miles, Ballara 30 miles, and Melbourne 75 miles, bring Daylesford within easy reach of many parts of Victoria. daylesford, victoria park caravan park, camping, victoria park, caravan park

Hampton Avenue private street scheme Public open space Graham Street South Crown Lands Kororoit Creek Anderson Road Sunshine Land Use Permit Consulting Rooms Ainsworth Avenue Land Use Permit Extension to school Ballarat Road Deer Park Land Use Permit Alterations to Greek Orthodox Church of St Andrew Corner Simmie Street and St. Andrews Street Land Use Permit Amusement Parlour 32a Sydney Street Council Officers Reports city of sunshine, alexander "alex" george gillon, hampton avenue, sunshne, sydney street, albion, kororoit creek, anderson road, graham street south, ainsworth avenue, sunshine west, greek orthodox church of st andrew, simmie street, st. andrews street

Planning Permit Application Motor Repair Station Williamson Road Maribyrnong Planning Permit Application Factory Stage 2 Extensions Lot 7 Holmwood Road Brooklyn Planning Permit Application Radion Mast Carrington Drive Albion Planning Permit Application Extensions to existing school Blanche Street Ardeer Planning Permit Application Amusement Parlour Princess Street St. Albans Planning Permit Application Petrol Filling Station Princess Highway Planning Permit Application Four Flats Corner of Mulhall Drive and St. Albans Road St. Albans Planning Permit Application Service Premises and Consultation Rooms Lots 2, 3 & 4 Glengala Road Sunshine West for hairdresser, pharmacy and doctor or dentist Planning Permit Application Furniture Sales Rosamond Road Maribyrnong Planning Permit Application Highpoint West Shopping Centre Level 1 Market Extensions Rosamond Road Maribyrnong Plan of Consolidation Connor Shea Fourth Avenue Sunshine Construction of part of Neale Road Deer Park Location of Building 3 Ruth Street Sunshine North Building on Land Liable to Flooding 155 Chifley Drive Maribyrnongwilliamson road, highpoint west, rosamond road, chifley drive, maribyrnong, holmwood road, brooklyn, carrington drive, albion, mother of god primary school, blanche street, ardeer, princess street, st. albans, princess highway, mulhall drive, st. albans road, glengala road, sunshine west, connor shea, fourth avenue, neale road, deer park, ruth street, sunshine north

Planning Permit Application Motor Repair Station Williamson Road Maribyrnong Planning Permit Application Factory Stage 2 Extensions Lot 7 Holmwood Road Brooklyn Planning Permit Application Radion Mast Carrington Drive Albion Planning Permit Application Extensions to existing school Blanche Street Ardeer Planning Permit Application Amusement Parlour Princess Street St. Albans Planning Permit Application Petrol Filling Station Princess Highway Planning Permit Application Four Flats Corner of Mulhall Drive and St. Albans Road St. Albans Planning Permit Application Service Premises and Consultation Rooms Lots 2, 3 & 4 Glengala Road Sunshine West for hairdresser, pharmacy and doctor or dentist Planning Permit Application Furniture Sales Rosamond Road Maribyrnong Planning Permit Application Highpoint West Shopping Centre Level 1 Market Extensions Rosamond Road Maribyrnong Plan of Consolidation Connor Shea Fourth Avenue Sunshine Construction of part of Neale Road Deer Park Location of Building 3 Ruth Street Sunshine North Building on Land Liable to Flooding 155 Chifley Drive Maribyrnongwilliamson road, highpoint west, rosamond road, chifley drive, maribyrnong, holmwood road, brooklyn, carrington drive, albion, mother of god primary school, blanche street, ardeer, princess street, st. albans, princess highway, mulhall drive, st. albans road, glengala road, sunshine west, connor shea, fourth avenue, neale road, deer park, ruth street, sunshine north

Rezoning Application Sims Supermarket 8 Canterbury Street Deer Park Planning Permit Application First floor office and store 237 - 239 Hampshire Road Sunshine Planning Permit Application Corner of Station Road and Neale Road and Gould Street Deer Park Planning Permit Application John Darling Flour Mills Warehouse Sydney Street Albion Planning Permit Application Extension to club rooms Medway Golf Club Omar Street Maidstone Planning Permit Application Extension to existing sales area Prism Paints Lot 2 Tottenham Parade Footscray West Planning Permit Application Amusement Parlour 113 Durham Road Sunshine Planning Permit Application Restaurant 204 - 206 & 210 Ballarat Road Maidstone Planning Permit Application Workshop and offices Lots 11 & 12 Williamson Road Maribyrnong Planning Permit Application Two Villa Units 4 Vine Court Braybrook Plan of Subdivision Stages 8A & 8B Furlong Road St. Albans Planning Permit Application Boral Resources Lot 41 Reid Street Albion Proposed Plan of Consolidation Corner Mark Street and Allison Street Sunshine Plan of Proposed Subdivision Disraeli Street and Washington Street St. Albans Purchase and Removal of Council Buildings McCracken Street Sunshine Building Over Easement 33 Newbury Street Deer Park Building Over Easement 2 Hemel Close Deer Park Building Over Easement 1 Alden Street Sunshine West Building Over Easement 9 Shipley Court Sunshine North Building Over Easement 43 Oleander Drive St. Albans Building Over Easement 17 Eppalock Crescent St. Albans Extension of Building Time 11A Garfield Street St. Albans Heigh of Fence 36 Newbury Street Deer Park Storage of Volatile Fluids Lot 7 Frederick Road Brooklyn Land liable to Flooding 71 Ardoyne Street Sunshine Location of Building 35 Couch Street Sunshine Substandard Land 29 Carlyle Street Maidstonesims supermarket, canterbury street, deer park, hampshire road, sunshine, station road, neale road, gould street, john darling flour mills, sydney street, albion, medway golf club, omar street, maidstone, prism paints, tottenham parade, footscray west, durham road, ballarat road, williamson road, maribyrnong, vine court, braybrook, furlong road, st. albans, reid street, mark street, allison street, disraeli street, washington street, mccracken street, newbury street, hemel close, alden street, sunshine west, shipley court, sunshine north, oleander drive, eppalock crescent, garfield street, frederick road, brooklyn, ardoyne street, couch street, carlyle street

Construction of Neale Road West of Oakwood Road Planning Permit Application Amusement Parlour Rosamond Road Maribrnongneale road, deer park, rosamond road, maribyrnong

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