Organised by Peter Ellis and Shirley Andrews following on for the National Folk Festival in Melbourne. It featured old time dances and folk dances MC'd by Peter Ellis.A program from the Grand Colonial Ball at the Woodville Town Hall in South Australia on pale orange card with brown text. The card features a couple dancing in a frame that reads Adelaide Colonials. The bands playing were the Gawler Town Band and Enfield City Band. Year unspecified. Card is folded in half to make a booklet. On the inside is a list of the dances.emu creek bush band, adeliade colonials, gawler town band, enfield city band, woodville, australian colonial dance

"Tipplers All" was a band started in Chewton/Castlemaine that became known for their folk music. Initial members included, Ian Huxley, Gordon Cowan, Gillian Harris, Roddy Reid, and Helen McGeachin.A business card for Tipplers All Traditional Folk Music with contact details for Ian Huxley from the 1970s. Card is cream card with dark brown text and features an engraved illustration of colonial musical instruments. emu creek bush band, australian colonial dance, ian huxley, tipplers all

Until the 35th Edition, this magazine was titled "The Australian Musical Magazine" and was first published in 1874. No 42 was published between 1897 (No. 41) and 1899 (No.44).A photocopy of the cover of an album of country dances called Nicholson's Musical Magazine. The illustration features a woman in classical dress holding a lyre harp surrounded by Australian animals.emu creek bush band, australian colonial dance, nicholson's australian musical magazine

The National Folk Festival was first held in Melbourne in 1967 and thereafter was held in various cities throughout Australia. In 1992 it became a permanent fixture in Canberra and is held each year over Easter. 1. Colin Silk was born in Geelong 31/1/1920 and developed his interest in Old Time Dancing in his early teens. He and his wife moved to Bendigo in 1946 where they both continued their love of dance, also becoming teachers. Colin was responsible for the building of the Lockwood Sth. Hall in 1966 and the Sutton Grange Hall. He and Harry Wiegard MC'd dances at Lockwood for 40 years. He died 10/8/2011. 2. Henry (Harry) Wiegard, (1918 - 8/10/2002) began dancing as a young man primarily at the St Killians Hall in Bendigo. He also travelled to Melbourne to undertake more advanced training in Old Time Dances. He MC'd and called dances throughout the district for over 20 years.A country music dance program from the Canberra Folk Festival in 1995. The program is printed on pale blue card with black text and features an illustration of a man and a woman dancing. on the reverse side is a list of dances. The Masters of Ceremonies were Colin Silk and Harry Wiegard and the band was the Gay Charmers from Northern Victoria.emu creek bush band, australian colonial dance, canberra folk festival, gay charmers band, colin silk, harry wiegard

First published in 1932 and designed to fit into an average sized pocket for easy reference, this booklet was published in response to an upswing in the popularity of old time dances and reels. The fourth edition was published in 1937 and the 7th Edition was published in 1944. Robertson and Mullens , publishing company was formed in 1922 by the merger of George Robertson and Company and Melville and Mullen. Mullen and Robertson were friends who had immigrated from Scotland together and had initially set up separate bookselling and publishing businesses. The business operated out of 107-113 Elizabeth St., Melbourne and was delisted as a public company in 1960.A photocopy of Mullens Old Time Dance Guide on white paper with black text featuring an illustration of a man and a woman dancing in formal attire. The reverse side features a description of how the dances were to be performed. The publishers of the guide were Robertson and Mullens of Melbourne.emu creek bush band, australian colonial dance, old time dance guide

BHS CollectionTwo identical dance cards for the Plain and Fancy Dress Ball to celebrate the centenary of the Dandenong Town Hall on Monday September 3rd 1990. Each dance card consists of a small bifold card on pale blue card with a decorative gold and dark blue border. On the inside is a list of dances. On the rear is a list of the stewards.emu creek bush band, australian colonial dance, old time dance guide, dandenong town hall

BHS CollectionA ticket for a social dance at the Assembly Hall in Hepburn in aid of the Daylesford Hospital on Wednesday November 9, 1898. The ticket is on grey card with black text with a black decorative border. Emu Creek Bush Band Collection.emu creek bush band, australian colonial dance, hepburn, daylesford hospital

BHS CollectionNewspaper articles from pages 63 and 65 of 'The Weekly Times' on October 15, 1997 with a description of the Dinki Di Bush Ball recently held at the Eaglehawk Town Hall. The article on page 63 describes the ball and features a photograph of Alan Russ and John Williams. The article on page 65 includes the lyrics to a song 'The Old Bush Dance' and six photographs from the event.emu creek bush band, australian colonial dance, eaglehawk town hall, dinki di bush ball

BHS CollectionA series of 75 black ink pen drawings on white paper of various sizes showing dance positions for a variety of bush dances. The drawings are detailed, some showing hand positions. There are no artist signature or dates.emu creek bush band, australian colonial dance, bush dance steps, bush dance sequences

This original tunic or jacket is part of the full dress uniform of the pre-Federation Victorian Permanent Artillery regiment. Its owner had the rank of Sergeant, as indicated by the three inverted chevrons. The Artillery design of the badges and buttons indicate the date of the tunic to be from 1893 to 1903. However the maker of the tunic, W. Moncton, began manufacture in Melbourne in 1899, so this the tunic can be dated between 1899 and 1903. The donor's grandfather was given this tunic but not the name of the original owner. It has since been suggested to the family that the tunic was worn by a local Western District Light Horse member. This could very well have been the case because mounted troops were officially referred to as the Light Horse in the late 19th to early 20th century. Several local men were involved in the Light Horse during the First World War. The donor's grandfather wore this tunic in the local district when riding a penny farthing bicycle. The donor's father also wore the tunic when dressed as a 'Captain' hosting a local disco dance. BRIEF MILITARY HISTORY- The Crimean War began In 1854 and many people in colonial Australia were afraid of a Russian attack. Volunteer forces were established to strengthen the British Imperial troops posted here. A battery of artillery was raised in Victoria as well as in other Australian states. In 1870 Australia became responsible for its own naval and military defence. The Volunteer Corps and Victorian Navy shared the responsibility of defending the existing forts, assisted by volunteer coastal and mobile field batteries. The Permanent Victorian Artillery force was established. It was disbanded in 1880 then re-formed in 1882 as the Victorian Garrison Artillery Corps. In 1895 the Geelong, Warrnambool, Port Fairy and Portland Batteries became part of the Western District Garrison Artillery. Many of the volunteers who served in the Artillery were from rural areas. They belonged to rifle clubs and were experience horsemen as well. Australia's defence at this time relied on these mounted troops, or Light Horse men. In 1899 the Victorian Garrison Artillery Corps amalgamated with the New South Wales and Queensland Permanent Artillery to become the Victorian Regiment of the Royal Australian Artillery (RAA). Then prior to Federation, the RAA and the Permanent Artillery of South Australia, Western Australia and Tasmania all combined, becoming the Royal Australian Artillery Regiment with two Batteries of Field Artillery; Battery A from Sydney and Battery B from Melbourne.This original uniform tunic of the pre-Federation Victorian Permanent Artillery is significant for its association with Australia's military defence and the fortifications of our district, state and country. The tunic is also significant, representing part of the history and evolution of uniforms in the Australian military forces. The tunic is also significant in its representation of Australia's independence in forming its own defences. The tunic has local significance in its connection with local social events.Tunic or jacket, part of the full dress uniform of the pre-Federation Victorian Permanent Artillery operating from 1893 to 1903. Original, single-breasted tunic of dark blue wool, red piping trim, black cotton lining in body. Sleeves lined with blue striped, white cotton. Front closure has eight brass buttons. Red band-style collar with hook-and-eye closure has gold bullion braid trim and a brass badge pinned each side at the front. Upper right sleeve has three inverted chevrons on red fabric with gold bullion braid trim (rank of Sergeant). Both sleeves have gold bullion braid 'Austrian knot' emblems stitched onto lower arm, with ends finishing on the inner sleeve. Shoulder epaulettes have red piping and smaller brass buttons. Closed back vent has vertical scalloped design with six brass buttons, in two columns of three, and red piping trim. Brass belt hook is attached to the left back waist, close to the seam (right side has a mark indicating a previous similar clip). Inside left breast is a concealed pocket. Tunic has both machine and hand stitching. All brass shank-style buttons have matching Artillery emblems with inscriptions on the back. The two brass collar badges have additional artillery emblems of exploding grenade and star as well as an inscription. Buttons were made for W. Moncton, of Melbourne and marked with his name. He traded from 1899, dating the tunic to between 1899 and 1903.Button front: Artillery emblem on front (field cannon facing left, in front of a muzzle-loading ram rod). Button back: engraved "W. MONCTON . MELBOURNE ." Collar badges: Artillery emblem (field cannon facing right | stars | exploding grenade | "AUSTRALIA")flagstaff hill, warrnambool, shipwrecked coast, flagstaff hill maritime museum, maritime museum, shipwreck coast, flagstaff hill maritime village, great ocean road, uniform jacket, uniform tunic, garrison volunteer uniform, fortifications in victoria, victorian permanent artillery, pre-federation military uniform, sergeant's uniform, jacket, militia, victoria, victorian volunteer forces, victorian regiment, royal australian artillery, raa, field gun, sergeant, w. moncton, garrison, dress uniform, tunic, scarlet collar, red collar, scarlet piping, red piping, gold bullion, artillery emblem, light horse, artillery, mounted troops, victorian garrison artillery corps

This MEZON brand button accordion was made specifically for Lyons, Musical Instrument Importer, 207 Bourke Street Melbourne, as can be seen on the embossed lettering on the top of the accordion. The hand inscribed nameplate indicates that the owner was T H Betts. On August 19th, 1903, Michael Edward Lyons applied to the Trade Mark’s Office of Sydney for registration of “The Invented word “MEZON” to be applied to musical instruments. In 1908 he was advertising himself as sole agents for MEZON accordions. He had been at that address for 15 years (since 1893) and was moving to larger premises at 256 Bourke Street, Melbourne. Still at this address in 1925, Lyons advertises MEZON accordions as “The ideal Xmas present, Maker your friends happy, This Xmas let the Present be a MEZON”. There was a choice of three styles: The Organ, The Wonder and The Grand Organ. They came with a Fibre Case with Lock and Key and a Leather Handle. The promise was “They Give Satisfaction”. They were obtainable at all stores or from Sole Distributors in Australia. In 1927 the MEZON was sold by Albert & Sons in Western Australia, Victoria, New South Wales and Queensland as well as by Lyons in Melbourne. The favoured German accordion brands were Monarch and Sterling, which were made by the International Accordion Company in Leipzig, Saxony, Germany. The company was founded in 1871 by Ernest Deines and made a variety of musical instruments. The company closed business in 1834. The International Accordion Company’s accordion range made the International brand and others such as MEZON, Globe, and Dienst. Australia imported the MEZON brand. American companies imported a range of the popular German branded accordions until World War II, when they were no longer available. In general, accordions produced after the war were not as high a quality and not loud enough to be heard over the electronic guitars and the drum kit of the bands. This accordion represents the type of musical instruments used in the late 19h and early 20th century, locally and Australia wide. In colonial Australia musical instruments like this one were imported from Germany as well as other countries. At that time, German made instruments represented good quality. This accordion is significant for being especially imported into Australia by a Melbourne retailer. Music was a part of family and social life, associated with dances, song and general fun.Button accordion with case. Accordion with steel reeds, three bass valves and ten treble valves. It is coloured black with very dark green trim, decorative silver metal reinforcing on main corners, gold reinforcing on corners of the bellows and delicate printed, gold printed patterned trims. Hand support for buttons is made of fabric. Folds of the bellows are light coloured with fine dark pattern. It has a nameplate on the front. Black wooden case has red lining, two brass hinges, two brass hook and eye catches and a swivel brass lock. The base of the case has a loose brass fitting. The top has a thin metal handle. Inscription on hand inscribed name on front, label inside case lid, silver reinforcing, leather on bellows top, and frame of accordion. Manufactured with the brand MEZON in Saxony, Germany, for Lyons of Melbourne. Once the property of T H Betts.Printed on label “MEZON ACCORDEONS.” Impressed in metal corners and reinforcing “MEZON” with logo [circle enclosing entwined capital D and E] “MADE IN SAXONY” Embossed in gold on frame “Made in Saxony”, “MEZON Accordion/ manufactured for LYONS / MELBOURNE, Bourke Street” Name inscribed by hand “T H Betts”flagstaff hill, warrnambool, shipwrecked coast, flagstaff hill maritime museum, maritime museum, shipwreck coast, flagstaff hill maritime village, great ocean road, mezon accordion, lyons, made in saxony, t h betts, betts, mezon, squeeze box, musical instrument, button accordion, germany, michael lyons, international accordion company, ernest deines, circle enclosing d e, d e, e d, german accordion

Soft cover book on the traditional social dances done in the colonial days in Australia by Shirley Andrews.

A brown spiral bound book titled 'Collector's Choice of Music for Old Time, New Vogue and Modern Ballroom Dances in Australia. Vol. 3.' Compiled by Peter Ellis. Includes over 300 tunes for 40 dances, with a section for Special Occasions and Novelties.Companion to 'Take Your Partners' by Shirley Andrews. Published by The Victorian Folk Music Club of Victoria Incorporated. Box 2025S, G.P.O., Melbourne, 3001. Printed by Ajax Printing & Duplicating Pty. Ltd. 23 Nevin Drive, Thomastown, 3074. 202 pgs. Ill., music, ph. Presentedto the Royal Historical Society of Victoria, Bendigo Branch, with kind regards from Peter Ellis 3/12/1988.entertainment, dance, bush dance, peter ellis, collection, dance, dancing, dances, music, old time dancing, new vogue dancing, modern ballroom dances, australian history, colonial dancing, bush dancing, bush dances, shirley andrews, recreation, leisure, book

A grey spiral bound book titled 'Collector's Choice of traditional music for Country dances, Quadrilles and Cotillions in Australia.' Vol. 2. Companion to 'Take Your Partners' by Shirley Andrews. Published by the Victorian Folk Music Club Incorporated. Box 2025S, G.P.O., Melbourne, 3001. Presented to the Royal Historical Society of Victoria, Bendigo Branch, with kind regards from Peter Ellis 3/12/1988.entertainment, dance, bush dance, peter ellis, collection, dancing, folk dancing, dance, dances, music, country dances, quadrilles, cotillions, australian history, australian folk dancing, colonial dancing, bush dancing, barn dancing, shirley andrews

A soft covered book titled 'Two Hundred Dancing Years and how to celebrate them with a Colonial Ball.' by Shirley Andrews and Peter Ellis. Published by The Australian Bicentennial Authority Australia 1788 - 1988. Presented to the Royal Historical Society of Victoria, Bendigo Branch with kind regards from Peter Ellis 3/12/1988.Shirlely Andrews and Peter Ellisentertainment, dance, colonial ball, peter ellis, book, dance, dancing, music, colonial ball, australian history, history, australian bicentenary, dance styles, balls, entertainment, recreation, australian food, food, menus, colonial food, colonial fancy dress, costume, fashion, dance programmes

4 page A4 printed document. Achievements of Peter Ellis (for consideration for the Order of Australia) Peter is regarded as one of the leading collectors and presenters of traditional dance tunes, dances and musical instruments in Australia. At the 2005 National Folk Festival it was announced by Robyn Holmes that he has the largest selection of dance related material collected in the National Library Archives in Canberra. Peter has been collecting for many years and has collected with the late John Meredith (AM), Shirley Andrews (AM), Rob Willis and Dave Di Santi amongst others. Peter has literally travelled Australia collecting over the past thirty years. He has extensive field recordings from Western Australia and Tasmania in addition to his Victorian collection, for example. Most of his recording has been in North Western and Central Victoria. Peter collected a lot of his material from Harry McQueen ( Castlemaine), which led to a double CD of Harry's music. Harry had played in dance bands for over sixty years in Central Victoria. Harry had a number of tunes from Bill McGlashan who had taken Harry under his wing as a young man. Through Peter's efforts much valuable material and knowledge from almost a century ago was saved for posterity. Founder, Charter member and life member of the Bush Dance and Music Club of Bendigo. Life Member of the Victorian Folk Music Club. Recipient of the Graham Squance award (for the person who has done the most to promote folk dance and music in Victoria)) from the Folk Song and Dance Society of Victoria. Member of the famous Wedderburn Old Timers Band for over twenty-eight years (two platinum and several gold recordings in that time). Founder and leader of the Emu Creek Bush Band (twenty-nine years old in 2010) Emu Creek has made many CDs of dance music as listed. Friday Night at the Spring Gully Hop, Three double CDs called 'Quadrille Mania' which contain many rare dances and tunes which have been learnt and recorded, under Peter's guidance, so they would not be lost to posterity. A triple CD called 'Take Me Back To Bendigo' with heritage songs and music from the Gold Rush to Federation (solely organised and financed by Peter) These CDs show the multicultural heritage in Bendigo and include music and groups from the Koorie, Chinese, Cornish, German, Irish, Italian, Scots, English and Welsh communities of Bendigo and district. Upon his recovery of costs Peter has handed over copyright to the Bendigo Community so future profits go back into the community. Three double CDs called 'The Merry Country Dance' with dances and tunes going back to the time of Governor Lachlan Macquarie's Ball in 1804. Most of the tracks are performed by Emu Creek Following much practice under Peter's tutelage. For further authenticity Peter liaised with other musicians to record some tracks which were revived from almost two hundred years ago and have now been recorded using the instruments of the time. A three volume set of Bush Concert recordings (Vol 1 Goornong (launched Australia Day 2006 with any profits going to the Soldier's Memorial Hall Committee), Vol 2 Heywood and Vol 3 Maldon/Sutton Grange, already recorded and to be released as money from other projects becomes available. NOTE: None of these CDs have led to any profit. All money raised is put back into the community and further heritage recordings, books and videos through the Bush Dance and Music Club of Bendigo Inc. In 2009 a full collection of all Peter's book and CDs was donated to the John Gorton Library as part of the recognition of the fifty year career of the Gay Charmers Dance Band from Lake Charm. 'Music of the Diggings' (4 tracks by Peter or Emu Creek). In addition the Emu Creek Band, under Peter's leadership, has appeared on a CD backing Bruce Watson on his song, 'The Old Bush Dance'. Emu Creek has performed at National Folk Festivals in four states and several times at the National Folk Festival in Canberra. They have also been mainstays of the Maldon Folk Festival for over twenty years as well as doing dance programs for the Port Fairy Folk Festival on two occasions. Peter has written and published many books related to traditional music and dance. These include Three volumes of 'Collectors Choice' which is musical notation for bush dances coupled with much dance history which would have been lost without Peter's efforts. 'Two Hundred Dancing Years - How to run a Colonial Ball: (co-authored with Shirley Andrews (A.M.), 'Music Makes Me Smile - The Music of the Nariel Valley' (co-authored with Harry Gardner). The Merry Country Dance' (292 pages) a companion to the three double CDs. He has also been a contributor to Verandah Music' authors Rob Willis and Graham Seal and 'The Oxford Companion to Australia Folklore' Ed Graham Seal. Peter is also a regular contributor to 'Trad and Now' Magazine. His latest completed book is titled 'The Merry Country Dance' and is over three hundred pages of social history, recipes and dance instructions. It was completed with the assistance of a Victorian Government Heritage Grant. The first edition sold out in only a few weeks. Peter has taught many children about old time musicianship through the junior bands which have functioned over the years with many children joining Emu Creek and then going on to follow their own musical inclinations. He has trained several young concertina and button accordion players over the years. Peter has been a regular tutor with Continuing Education in tin whistle, harmonica and old time dancing for many years. Peter has conducted workshops in music dance at National Folk Festivals in Perth, Alice Springs, Maleny, Melbourne, Adelaide, Kuranda and more recently at several Canberra National folk Festivals. He has also done this at Maldon for many years, Port Fairy, Glen Innes, Jamberoo and Kiama Festivals. For over thirty years Peter has been a guest player and MC for the dances at the Nariel Folk Festival (Australia's oldest continuing Folk Festival) Peter is very well known in the Corryong area as a collector and the co-author of the book, Music Makes Me Smile, about the Klippel/Simpson dynasty in the Nariel Creek Band. This book is currently being revised for re-issue as more material has come to light since the original publication. For many years Peter trained Debutante Sets in the Bendigo District. Peter was an instigator of the annual Dinki Di Ball held each September in Eaglehawk for the past thirteen years. At this ball three bands play for a quarter of the night and then join together for the final part of the evening. The bands are Emu Creek, The Wedderburn Old Timers and the Gay Charmers. Up to four hundred dancers, many in heritage costumes have attended this dance. The ball also pays tribute to, and involves, the old MC's. Through this example their skills have been passed down to a younger generation of MC's. All profits are returned to the Dance Club to foster our musical heritage. Each Ball includes presentations designed to promote social dancing in Australia. Over the years several young musicians have been presented with musical instruments at the Ball, libraries have been given copies of Peter's books and CDs and one year a keen young dancer was presented a pair of dancing shoes. Peter is a trained ballroom dancer and has gained gold medal status in this field. Peter is an accomplished musician and is one of Australia's foremost button accordion players. He is also highly accomplished on the tin whistle, bones and harmonica. He is the only exponent of the Swanee whistle that I have seen. Peter also plays the piano and ukulele. Thirty six years membership of the Bendigo Field Naturalists Club, Secretary in the 1970s and actively involved in campaigns to save Lake Pedder and establish the Whipstick and Kamarooka State Parks (now part of the Bendigo National Park). Peter was also extremely active in the establishment of the Salomon's Gully and Jackass Flat Flora Reserves in Bendigo which have now been saved for posterity. Peter has also been involved in efforts to save One Tree Hill and this area has now been included in the Greater Bendigo National Park. He has discovered and named new plant species in the Whipstick Forest and propagates Australian plants. Peter takes regular guided tours of interested people through the Whipstick each Spring on wild flower educational tours. He is a keen and gifted photographer of local plant species. Life member of the Bendigo Field Naturalists. Peter contributed text and photographs to their publication 'Wildflowers of Bendigo'. When the Victorian State Parliament had its first historical sitting outside Melbourne Emu Creek played during lunch for the guests and public. They have also played at functions such as the Centenaries of Federation, the Bendigo Post Office, the Shamrock Hotel and the opening of the new Melbourne Museum and the Federation Museum in Bendigo. The band regularly plays for Seniors week and at homes for the aged such as Bethlehem, Mirridong, Bignold Park, Bendigo Village and others. Peter has been instrumental in getting the band to play for fundraisers such as schools, scouts and environmental groups. The band plays many charitable 'gigs'. The band supports the Bendigo Easter Fair and the Eaglehawk Fair when able and has appeared in several parades over the years. The above list shows the invaluable contribution that Peter Ellis has made towards the collecting and distributing of Australia's musical and dance heritage. No one has done more than Peter in this area. He has also been active locally and nationally in his endeavours towads saving the natural environment. He has put many years of time and energy into both area's and has many on going projects in mind for the years ahead. The awarding of an honour from Australia would be just reward for a man who has preserved so much of our musical and dance heritage for future generations. Knowing Peter I have no doubt he would treasure such an honour as he has given so much to preserve Australia's music and dance heritage over most of his sixty plus years. Compiled by John Williams. Handwritten notes at bottom of last page reads: Referees Jacinta Allan MLA Steve Gibbons MHR Willie Carney ex Mayor of Bendigo Supporting letter Mary Smith Sec. Bush Dance + Music Club.person, individual, peter ellis oam

3 Page Letter printed on A4 printer paper. Bearing the letterhead of the Bush Dance and Music Club of Bendigo Inc. Postal Address Secretary PO Box 922 Bendigo 3552 Telephone number (03) 5442 1153 email [email protected] Mark Maddock Case Officer Australian Honours and Awards Secretariat Government house Canberra ACT 2600 28th February 2011. Dear Mark, Thank you for giving us the opportunity to speak for Peter Ellis. We know Peter to be a worthy candidate for the award and I think that most people that know him would agree. I had been putting together a nomination for Peter that was suggested by a couple at our club meeting on a night when Peter was not present. Everyone felt that he should have recognition for all the work that he has done and it was unanimously voted on. I was given the job. As someone else has beaten me to it I now can speak for him on my own behalf and in my role as secretary of the Bush Dance & Music Club Inc. Peter Ellis is a very good friend of mine and I have known him since April 1975 when we met at a Saturday night dance. At that time there was a small group of us that went around the dances. We would go 100kms to find dances that were not on the average programme, dances such as The Lancers, Albert's, Waltz Cotillion and lots of Polkas. We bemoaned the fact that they appeared to be dying out in the Towns and Cities so we tried to get the Bendigo Old Time Dance Club of which we were members, to introduce these dances on to the programme, but they were not interested. After a lot of discussion Peter, Maurie Rayner, myself and several others decided to start our own dance club where we could do the dances that we liked, and to endeavour to keep them alive. We formed the Sandhurst Dance Club in June 1979 (renamed ten years later as the Bush Dance & Music Club of Bendigo Inc.) In 1981 Peter made two attempts to form a band for the club and in 1983 the 'Celebrated Emu Creek Bush Band' was born, with Peter as the leader. Later Peter set up a junior section of the Emu Creek Band and some of these children grew up to become competent musicians and leaders of their own bands/Groups. Peter's friendship with the late Harry McQueen of Castlemaine led to and increased knowledge of the dances, calls for the sets and the various tunes used. Peter joined the Wedderburn Old Timers Orchestra in late 1979 and travelling around Victoria and interstate with them was of immense help in learning to MC dances, call sets acoustically and in collecting new 'old dances' and tunes. He met elderly MC's who gave him information on the way that they ran the dances in the old days. It was also an introduction to playing items at concerts and in reviving much of the old traditions of the bush. Demand for the tunes for dances led to Peter compiling a series of three books called 'Collectors Choice' which were published by the Victorian Folk Music Club in 1986, 1987 and 1988. 1988 was a very busy year for Peter and The Emu Creek Bush Band as they recorded two double music tapes for the club 'The Merry Country Dance' and 'The Waltz the Polka and all Kinds of Dancing' which were in much demand at the time. Also in 1988 he collaborated with the late Shirley Andrews and they co-authored the book 'Two Hundred Dancing Years and how to celebrate them with a Colonial Ball' for the Bicentennial of 1988. this publication, was instigated by the Government backed Bicentenary Committee, and distributed free to every municipality in Australia. In 1996 The Emu Creek Bush Band and Peter recorded and produced a single CD called a Friday night at 'The Spring Valley Hop'. In 1998 The Bush Dance & Music Club again happily agreed to financially back Peter to produce a series of CDs. The first thing he did was to revive and update the 1988 music tapes for CD. The first of the Qadrille Mania series of double CDs with companion call books was launched in 1999 then in 2000 and 2001. then the triple CD called The Waltz Polka & all kinds of Dances in 2002 followed by the Merry Country Dance CDs in 2005, 2006 and 2007. There were six double CDs and one triple CD produced which was a major undertaking that went on for eight years. The CDs have a great many tunes that Peter collected over the years mixed in with well known tunes and there are very few repeats. During this time we applied for a Grant from the Victorian Government to publish a book on the social History of country dances and dance instructions with Peter as the author. We were successful and published it in 2005. Our CDs and book have all been lodged with the National Library of Canberra as has all Peter's sheet music, boxes of it, as well as everything he has produced. At the 2005 Canberra National Folk Festival, at a meeting of collectors, it was stated that Peter has the largest collection of dance related material in the National Library. Peter compiled and produced his own project a triple CD called 'Take Me Back to Bendigo' in 2002. 2006 Peter and Emu Creek Bush Band produced another single CD 'Bush Concert Vol one Back to Goornong'. 2008 A pet project of Peter's was compiling and producing a double CD for the Wedderburn Old Timers it was of all the recorded material performed by them at concerts and taped by friends and fans. It was funded by Gavan Holt a son of the late Lindsay Holt an original 'Old Timer'. Recent publications are a book mainly music 'Music Makes Me Smile' a tribute to Con Klippel and the music of the Nariel Valley near Corryong Victoria. Peter Ellis & Harry Gardner 1998. The Waltz, The Polka & All Kinds of Dancing' a sheet music book for musicians supported by the Folk Song & Dance Society of Victoria. 2007-8 not sure of year. Peter has been involved over the years in collecting music and dance by himself and also with Rob Willis and the late John Meredith for the National Library in Canberra. He is continually asked for information and to write articles for people and to verify points re dance and music. He corresponds with like minded people overseas and frequently goes off to Folk Festivals all over the country, usually running dance classes, musician's workshops or just playing for dances. He is an excellent musician and plays Piano, Button Accordion, Concertina, Mouth Organ, Tin Whistle, Ukulele, Spoons and the Bones. He is regarded as one of Australia's foremost collectors and presenters of Australian traditional dance tunes, dances and some musical instruments. Over the years I have heard him referred to as the Guru of folk dance and music. Peter lives and breathes for this passion of his and always has several irons in the fire. He is a life member of The Bush Dance & Music Club of Bendigo Inc. The Victorian Folk Music Club, and The Bendigo Field Naturalists Club. He was a recipient of the David Squance Award in 1994 presented by the Folk Song & Dance Society of Victoria. Over the last twelve months for the folk magazine 'Trad & Now' he has written articles on the old dances and music and this is an ongoing project. This has led to our clubs present project which is the filming of the dances to be shown on UTube as it is referred to in the magazine. This involves members in hours and hours of practising the dances then filming them, and all with Peter's expert teaching and watchful eye on everyone. The Bush Dance & Music Club are and always have been behind Peter wholeheartedly in everything that he does and we are extremely proud of what he has achieved. His drive and enthusiasm for the preservation of music and dance is catching. People like Peter are absolutely necessary in finding and preserving our Australian Heritage, without them it would be lost forever and Australia would be a great deal poorer for it. The Bush Dance and Music Club of Bendigo Inc. and I fully support this nomination for an award as he is truly deserving of it. Yours sincerely Mary E Smith. Secretary of the Bush Dance & Music Club Inc. Peter's Timeline. 1979 A Foundation Member of the Bush Dance & Music Club of Bendigo Inc. 1979 Joined the Wedderburn Old Timers Orchestra. 1983 The Celebrated Emu Creek Bush Band was formed. 1986 Collectors Choice. Volume one. 1987 Collectors Choice. Volume Two. 1988 Collectors Choice. Volume Three. 1988 Recorded Tapes - The Merry Country Dance & The Waltz Polka & all Kinds of Dances. 1988 A book with the late Shirley Andrews called Two Hundred years of Dancing. 1991 Across to Perth collecting for National Library with the Late John Meredith. 1996 Single CD A Friday Night at the Spring Gully Hop. 1998 Music Makes Me Smile. A tribute to Con Klippel 7 music of the Nariel Valley. 1999 Double CD Quadrille Mania 1&2 2000 Double CD Quadrille Mania 3&4 2001 Double CD Quadrille Mania 5&6 2002 His own project triple CD Take Me Back To Bendigo. (Goldrush to Federation and Beyond). 2002 Triple CD The Waltz The Polka & All kinds of Dances. 2005 Double CD The Merry Country Dance 1 & 2. 2002 Book, The Merry Country Dance. 2006 Single CD with Emu Creek 'Bush Concert Vol 1 Back to Goornong' 2006 Double CD The Merry Country Dance 3&4 2007 Double CD The Merry Country Dance 5&6 2007-8-? A book of music, The Waltz, The Polka & All Kinds of Dances. 2008 Double CD The Wedderburn Old Timers in Concert.person, individual, peter ellis oam

Newspaper cutting from Bendigo Advertiser, dated Saturday, December 3, 1988 - Page 14. Photo on left is captioned: ABOVE: John Meredith and Peter Ellis prepare traditional dance music for the National Library archives. Top right picture is captioned: ABOVE: Peter Ellis plays and 80-year-old celluloid penny whistle. Ellis' 'Collector's Choice' will be launched today at the National Trust chambers in View St at 3 pm. LEFT: Peter Ellis demonstrates the one string fiddle and collection of various instruments. Article reads: Duo's work an insight to music over the years. Local musical identity and Australian social dance authority Peter Ellis, co-author of the Bicentennial publication 200 Dancing Years, has completed his series on dance music entitled 'Collector's Choice'. Noted Australian folklorist John Meredith will launch volume three of Collector's Choice today at the National Trust chambers in View St at 3 pm. A photographic display by John Meredith can be seen at the chambers between 2pm and 5pm. The display is called Pioneers of Performers and it exhibits a cross section of traditional musicians from all over Australia. Fifty superb black and white toned prints will also be on display. John Meredith is one of Australia's foremost folklorists and has many publications to his credit including Folk Songs of Australia, Frank the Poet and The Wild Colonial Boy. Peter and John have just returned from the third national folklore conference in Canberra. Collector's Choice has more than 300 popular tunes written in a clear single melody line with guitar chords provided. Forty different dances are represented with music including the Pride of Erin, Parma Waltz, Evening Three-step, Swing Waltz, Barn Dance, Progressive Jive and Old Time Medley. A detailed introduction provides handy advice on choice, presentation and suitable tunes plus historical details on the evolvement of colonial, modern ballroom, old time and new vogue dances and music. Illustrations on the social history of the bands and individual musicians can be found throughout the book. Bendigo bands of old which are illustrated including Cyril Sawyer's Swingsters. As part of the launch the Sandhurst Dance Club will host a free dance from 8pm at the Marong Public Hall.Bendigo advertiserperson, individual, peter ellis oam

A4 sheet white printer paper with 8 newspaper clippings glued on. Handwritten note reads: Death notices for Peter Ellis - Bendigo Advertiser Wed 20th - Saturday 23rd May 2015. Death Notices. Ellis - Peter OAM. Our college community pays tribute to Peter, a highly respected former staff member and ex-student. He was a highly valued and supportive colleague, mentor and friend. Peter will be remembered for his wealth of scientific knowledge, his love of the natural environment and his contribution to the local and state Lab Technicians Associations. - Principal, staff and Students of Bendigo Senior Secondary College. City of Greater Bendigo. Ellis- Peter. A gentle man with a wonderful passion for Greater Bendigo's natural, built and musical heritage, Peter will be greatly missed by the Greater Bendigo Heritage Advisory Committee. He willingly shared his love and knowledge of the rich and unique heritage around us. Ellis - Peter Nicolaus OAM. You went so quickly. I will miss our trips to Festivals doing crosswords on the way. My sympathy to both families and Brian a great mate to the last. A void impossible to fill. - Mary Smith. Ellis- Peter OAM. A tribute to our intrepid band leader of 34 years who took us on an unforgettable musical journey of preserving and teaching the traditions of dance and music to old and young throughout Australia. You are irreplaceable ' Dirty Pierre' - Past and present members of the celebrated Emu Creek Bush Band. Ellis - Peter OAM. Founder and leader of Emu Creek Bush Band. Australia's largest collector of dancing history. A great friend taken far too young. Au revoir 'Dirty Pierre' - John and Sue Williams. Ellis - Peter OAM. Thanks Pete, you introduced me to a life of extraordinary experiences, amazing friendships, dance and music. We did have some fun. - Marg Hogan. Ellis - Peter. We are so saddened by your passing. Your music and great sense of humour will remain with us. - Wedderburn Old Timers Band. Ellis - Peter. A friend of many years. We will remember your warmth, humour and tireless pursuit to preserve the Natural Environment of Bendigo. Your love and knowledge of the Bendigo Flora was inspirational. - Mary and Patrick Ward. Ellis- Peter. A music and dance man with a warm appreciation and encouragement of diverse talent. - Winzar boys. Death Notices. Ellis - Peter. Greatly respected and loved by his many friends in the traditional music and dance movement across Australia. His achievements were many and he will be missed. - The Traditional Social Dance Association of Victoria. Ellis - Peter. The Bendigo Historical Society is saddened at the passing of fine musician and friend Peter Ellis. - Committee and members, Bendigo Historical Society. Ellis- Peter. A talented musician and long time friend who was always willing to help us. - Members of Euro fest Choir and Inc. Ellis - Peter. Friend and neighbour, nature's gentleman at rest. Sincere sympathy to Robyn, Rick, Ryan and Doug. - Judy Monti. Ellis- Peter OAM Fond memories of 28 years with the band. Sadly Missed. - Stan and Heather Symes. Death Notices. Ellis - Peter OAM Pete, a much loved friend of many years. We fondly remember your knowledge, humour and those great times together, especially in the bush. Deeply missed. - Rob and Glen Moors. Death Notices. Ellis- Peter. Fond memories, so sadly missed. Keep playing your music Peter. Loved cousin Cheryl and families. Ellis -Peter. Loved cousin of Sandra and Phil Jubber and families. Deeply Missed. Ellis - Peter. A long term member of the Bendigo Field Naturalist Club. Deepest sympathy to his friends, he will be sadly missed by all. Ellis - Peter. Leader of the 'Celebrated Emu Creek Bush Band' Memories of lots of great times playing and travelling all over. We learned so much about dancing and music and it just won't be the same. - Don and Julie. Ellis - Peter. Much loved friend, dancer and band leader. - Dianne and Doug Pearse. Death Notices. Ellis - Peter. Peter, you gave so much laughter and happiness to many, many people through your lovely nature and your brilliant music to listen to and dance to. You have left a legacy of music, books and dance as well as unforgettable memories. Rest in peace. - Diana Austin. Death Notices Ellis Peter 27/3/1946 - 18/5/2015 Formerly of Emu Creek Bush Band and the Wedderburn Old Timers). Passed away suddenly at Bendigo Hospice. Loved son of Joan and Allan Nielsen (both Dec). Loving brother of Robyn and Doug. Brother-in-law of Rick and Uncle of Ryan and the extended family. Let the music play on… For Funeral arrangements see later edition. Death Notices. Ellis - Peter Nicolaus O.A.M. Suddenly. An inaugural member of the Bush Dance and Music Club and the Emu Creek Bush Band. A much loved friend, dance instructor and musician. Very generous with his time and knowledge. Passionate collector of dance music and old time dances. Will be sadly missed by all who knew him. - Devastated dance members. Ellis- Peter. OAM 27/3/46 - 18/5/15 Passed away peacefully after a brief illness. Much loved and irreplaceable brother, cousin and uncle to the Lilford, Datson, Burns, Shaw and Kitch families. You enriched our lives. No words can express how much we will miss you. Ellis Pierre (Peter) You were as much a father to me as an uncle. I never told you that or how much I looked up to you. You will be sadly missed - Boswald ( Ryan). Ellis - Peter. We are going to miss our Monday night dinners before rehearsal. A lover of fine wine, good food and great music. Pierre, our Maestro and fearless band leader, we will miss the sound of your squeeze box and your passion for the music. - Paul and Alida Robinson, Emu Creek Bush Band. Ellis - Peter. A close friend colleague, musician, authority on native plants and colonial music researcher. An enormous influence in preserving early Australian dance and dance music. We will all miss you Pete. - Jill and Graeme Balaam. Funeral Notices Ellis. A service of thanksgiving for the life of the late Mr Peter Nicolaus Ellis will be held at the Mulqueen Family Chapel, 15-25 Bridge street, Bendigo on MONDAY (May 25) at 11.00am. A private cremation will follow. Tributes can be left at www.heavenaddress.com Mulqueen Family 15-25 Bridge street, Bendigo Est. 1853 5443 4455.person, individual, peter ellis oam

Information sheet on the Australian Social Dance & Music Weekend Bendigo, 1995 Jo White. Includes Program, Colonial Ball - Sunday Night, Musicians' Workshops, Hints for the Musos, Soapbox Corner - Peter Ellis & Shirley Andrews, and the Farewell Lunch.clubs, music, bush dance & music club of bendigo, peter ellis collection, jo white, coral eden, shirley andrews, peter ellis, anthony & lisa simon, jim moir, emu creek band, olive dobbyn, stuart simms, morrie gierisch, the gay charmers, bendigo bush dance & music club

Documents relating to the National Folk Festival 96 held in Canberra on 4th to 8th April 1996. Included are suggestions for activities, information for performers, Festival Shop, Emu Creek Bush Band CD Launch and Performers' Consignment Stock List. Also Australian Tradition at the 1994 National Folk Festival, Canberra with a program of events for the Friday, Saturday and Sunday. There were dances, music and a Colonial Parade. Forthcoming Events are also listed. There are some small photos. Also Suggestions for the 1994 National Folk Festival Canberra by the Bush Dance and Music Club of Bendigo combined with the Celebrated Emu Creek Bush Band. Pasted onto the bottom of the page are two sketches of kangaroos, emus and some other animals and birds either dancing or playing instruments.clubs, music, national folk festival, peter ellis collection, j williams, peter ellis, emu creek bush band, maggi kerr andrew, jo cresswell, phil wilson, alan russ, joseph jenkins, welsh swagman, bendigo bush dance and music club, 1994 national fold festival - canberra, gwen burke, graeme murray, peter ellis, wongawilli colonial dance club inc, emu creek bush band, wongacreek, rob & olya willis, gwen burke, graeme murray, crooked corner band, john warne, peter painter, stan treacy, athol & eileen mccoy, tex morton, carrie milliner, jeff brownrigg, carole garland, bruce cameron

Three copies of the Australian Tradition, two copies of June 1996 and one copy of March 1997. Contains club news, an article on the Thirtieth National Folk Festival, regular Functions at Other Venues, Membership Forms and Contacts. March issue has a postscript on the Nariel Creek Folk Festival 1996/7Festival Guide, the Multicultural Nature of Australian Traditional Social Dance, Festival Guide, Regular Functions at Other Venues, Application Form, Newsletter Contributors and Contacts.clubs, music, victorian folk music club, peter ellis collection, australian tradition, victorian folk music club incorporated, harry gardner, betty davis, rick garrick, wongawilli colonial dance club, jo cresswell, wliza carthy, nancy kerr, ted egan, martin pearson, james fagan, alistair hulett, dave swarbrick, danny spooner, bernard bolan, simon nicol, ric sanders, roy bailey, nina simone, kristina olsen, phil wilson, elma gardner, bill buttler, maree buttler, jane bullock, melbourne folk club, bush dance and music club bendigo, the peninsula folk club, comhaltas ceoltoiri eirann, danswyr cumreig melbourne, melbourne scottish fiddle club, aussie music workshop and session, scottish box and fiddle group, fiddlers' workshop, colonial dancers, geelong folk music club, tsdav, modern american square dance workshops, shirley andrews

Literature from the 26th National Folk Festival held in Canberra on the 16-20 April 1992. Program containing General Information, the Performers (including the Emu Creek Bush Band), Festival Map, the Programme and Dance Programme Information. Also leaflets: Visitors Guide, Program, Embassies in Canberra, University Halls of Residence Bruce Burton & Garran Halls Information for Visitors, Map of Australian National University, and an article titled 'Real Folk' with information about performers. Pioneer Performers Series Information Sheet April 1992 contains Introduction, Current Available Items, Current Projects, Forthcoming Events and Ramblings of a Modern Day Collector.entertainment, music, national folk festival, peter ellis collection, australian national university, 26th national folk festival canberra 1992, the monaro folk music society, emu creek bush band, wongawilli colonial dance club inc

The celebrated EMU CREEK BUSH BAND is a social group, which fosters junior members, has the promotion of authentic Australian Traditional Music as its aim. This is played on acoustic instruments featuring the 'squeezeboxes' i.e. the German system concertinas and button accordions along with fiddle, mandolin or banjo mandolin and whistles. Piano, banjos, guitars, double bass, washboard or lagerphone and drums play rhythm. Based in Central Vitoria. https://www.bendigobushdance.org.au/layout.php?p=1White polo shirt with the logo "The Celebrated Emu Creek Bush Band" printed centre front in blue and yellow. In the centre of the logo is d drawing of the head of an emu with one eye open and one eye closed. Clothing label identifies the manufacturer - Centavic Clothing, For Embroidery and Screen Printing. Includes Phone and Fax numbers. Size XXL.colonial dance, bush dance, old time dance, emu creek bush band, peter ellis collection

The celebrated EMU CREEK BUSH BAND is a social group, which fosters junior members, has the promotion of authentic Australian Traditional Music as its aim. This is played on acoustic instruments featuring the 'squeezeboxes' i.e. the German system concertinas and button accordions along with fiddle, mandolin or banjo mandolin and whistles. Piano, banjos, guitars, double bass, washboard or lagerphone and drums play rhythm. Based in Central Vitoria. https://www.bendigobushdance.org.au/layout.php?p=1Sky blue windcheater with the logo "The Celebrated Emu Creek Bush Band" printed centre front. The Band's symbol of the head of an emu is in a circle enclosed by the Band's name in blue and yellow lettering. Clothing label identifies the manufacturer - "L. Baker,". Includes Phone number. Reverse of label gives care instructions and "Made in Australia".colonial dance, bush dance, old time dance, emu creek bush band, peter ellis collection.