This page from the Border Morning Mail in December 1983 formed part of a major promotion for summer in Falls Creek. It features several images and advertisements for a range of popular accommodation and activities. These include Nelse Lodge, Koki Alpine Lodge, Cedarwood Alpine Lodge, Sundance, Frying Pan Inn and Falls Creek Hotel. A wide range of activities were promoted with swimming, fishing, bushwalking, windsurfing, one day horse rides or five day horseback safaris all on offer.This item is significant because it demonstrates how the Falls Creek area was promoted in the 1980s summer seasons.A black and white promotion of Falls Creek in the Border Morning Mail. It includes images and advertising of several prominent Falls Creek Lodges and other activities.falls creek summer, falls creek accommodation, falls creek publicity

Government Aircraft Factories

This photograph is recorded as depicting the presentation by Mr Alan Dunlop to Cr Val Mason, Shire President, of a 2.86-gram solid gold nugget found in the area more than 100 years ago, at the Burke Museum. The gold is reported as attached to a small amount of milk quartz mounted onto a tie pin. The photo and an article about the donation appeared in the Border Morning Mail on Friday 14th May, 1979. Alan Dunlop, pictured, was Sir Edward 'Weary' Dunlop's older brother. The tie pin artefact being donated in this photo is entered into the Victorian Collections database as follows: 'This nugget was found on the Beechworth Goldfield in the late 1800s by Mr Fred McIntosh (Alan & Edward Dunlop's Uncle by marriage, husband of Elizabeth (Bessie) Dunlop), who had made it into a tie pin and presented it to the Dunlop family'. Furthermore, Val Mason was the first female president of the former Beechworth Shire for two terms and a councillor for nine years. This photograph is of historic significance as it depicts known individuals who have connections to key Australian figures. Alan Dunlop is the brother of famous war doctor Edward 'Weary' Dunlop, and both men are Beechworth locals. The object Alan holds is a tie pin made from gold found by the Dunlops' uncle. It's also significant as it documents visually the origin of the tie pin artefact in the Burke Museum collection, via donation by Alan Dunlop. In addition, it depicts Val Mason, the first female president of the former Beechworth Shire for two terms and a councillor for nine years. It is of social significance as it depicts two well-known and respected Beechworth locals handling a key artefact of significance to the Beechworth Goldfields, and therefore Beechworth local history. It also shows the Burke Museum in 1979, providing research potential for those interested in the history of the development of the museum's collection.Black and white, rectangular photograph printed on paper.Obverse: (lllegible) Reverse: A02653weary dunlop, gold, beechworth, val mason, tie pin, jewellery, goldfield, beechworth goldfield, fred mcintosh, bessie dunlop, elizabeth dunlop, dunlop, border morning mail, victorian collections, donation, burke museum

non-fictionA celebration of 100 years of the Border Mail in Wodongaborder mail wodonga, border morning mail, australian newspapers, newspaper wodonga, the mott family

Newspaper cutting from the Border Morning Mail, Saturday, June 13, 1953, p. 6. Article has photograph of eighteen women and girls dressed for the ball. All of the names are identified in the caption.coronation ball, debutants, elaine jackson, pamela reeves, shirley renshaw, june sawyer, beryl crampton, gloria renshaw, margaret fry, lynnette jackson, beverley baudinette, mary saddler, helen lawrence, mrs h jackson, mrs c t morris, june buckingham, dorothy henderson, sandra chandler, roslyn jones, marie cousens

This article contains an announcement of Robin Boyd's death on Friday 16th October and gives a short summary his career.walsh st library

non-fictionThis report documents the initial policies and plans of the Albury-Wodonga Development Corporation for the growth of the city. It outlines the intitial proposals and long term goals set down for the development of the Albury -Wodonga area to establish it as a major Australian city. The Albury- Wodonga Development Agreement was signed on October 23. 1973 by Sir Robert Asking, Premier of New South Wales, Rupert Hamer, Premier of Victoria and Gough Whitlam, Prime Minister of Australia.city planning wodonga, city planning albury, decentralisation

In 1909 students of Rutherglen State School sent an Australian flag to pupils of Rutherglen Scotland Schools, and a year later a Union Jack flag was sent to the Australian Rutherglen School and was used as a veil over the plaque to commorate 100 years since the laying of foundation stone.Newspaper article about the links between the schools of Rutherglen Victoria and Rutherglen Scotland. Photograph shows Rutherglen school students displaying the Union Jack flag. Also two photocopies of the article.schools, rutherglen scotland, rutherglen connection, rutherglen state school

This item from the Border Morning Mail, Albury reports on the total destruction of the Albury Ski Club Lodge in 1958. The Lodge had been built by the Albury Ski Club members during their weekends and spare time starting in 1948. The fire was probably caused when a drum of petrol stored in the lighting plant room exploded. The building had fortunately been insured and the Albury Ski Club was able to build a new lodge to replace it.This article is significant because it documents an importance incident in Falls Creek.A newspaper item reporting on the destruction of the Albury Ski Club Lodge from the Border Morning Mail on Saturday 19th April 1958.albury ski club, albury ski club lodge fire

The undated clipping, possibly from the Rutherglen Sun or Border Morning Mail.Newspaper clipping, mounted on yellow paper, showing a photograph of buildings at Mt Ophir, Rutherglen.mt ophir, mount ophir, wine industry

The 8th Light Horse (Indi) Regiment superseded the 16th Light Horse in 1919. It had its headquarters at Benalla with sub-units throughout the Upper Murray and Northeast Victoria. In December 1941, the regiment converted from horse to mechanised, initially as 8th Reconnaissance Battalion then in July 1942 it became 8th Cavalry Regiment and served in Northern Territory. As Japanese threat to the mainland declined the regiment was disbanded.Citizen soldiers immediately prior to World War Two.Black and white photograph of two officers of the 8th Light Horse, Lieutenants L. Wildsmith of Tallangatta and A. McGeogh of Wodonga. Photo appeared in Border Morning Mail 10 March 1939.

Photograph of a group of firemen posing for newspaper article holding various fire brigade equipment that was published in the Border Morning Mail Monday 15th April 1940. Sepia rectangular newspaper reproduction printed on matte photographic paperObverse: One of the many bush fire brigade units who protect the north-east of Victoria, who paraded at Beechworth on Saturday. The group includes: Messrs. E. Jessup, F.Paton, G. Witherow, J. Carney, M. Sonneman, K. Allen, G. Wald, W. Rae, W. Lee, D. Hume, J. Morrison J. Neary, A.D. Neary, J. Witherow, A.J Goonan, R. Hupwood and W. Shannon. Reverse: 7625.1emergency services, beechworth, burke museum, newspaper article, photograph, fire brigade, fire, firemen

The newspaper article referred to in the letter is from the Border Morning Mail of Friday, September 25th, 1953, and is titled "Union Jack Links Two Rutherglens". A copy of this clipping is held in this collection at Registration Number 1905.005 Handwritten letter on lined paper, written to an unknown person in Rutherglen Scotland on 18/11/1990, referring to a newspaper clipping that appeared in the Border Mail.Letter signed "Mrs L Gardiner"rutherglen scotland, rutherglen connection, flag, union jack

The 8th Light Horse was initially raised from companies of the colonial Victorian Mounted Rifles located in North-east Victoria following Federation. In 1912 a major reorganisation of the Australian military forces resulted in the regiment being renumbered 16th Light Horse. The Regiment was disbanded in 1919 but soon after was re-raised as the 8th (Indi) Light Horse in the Citizen Military Forces, with the territorial title Indi Light Horse. The Indi Light Horse consisted of 3 squadrons. A squadron consisted of troops in Corryong, Walwa, Tallangatta, Eskdale and Wodonga. After an extensive recruiting campaign in January 1939 a new troop was raised in Bethanga, Victoria. In December 1941, the regiment converted from horse to mechanised, initially as 8th Reconnaissance Battalion then in July 1942 it became 8th Cavalry Regiment and served in Northern Territory. As Japanese threat to the mainland declined the regiment was disbanded.This article is significant because it depicts horses being loaded at the Wodonga Railway Station to despatch to the training camp at Broadmeadows. Two black and white images from the Border Morning Mail Friday March 10, 1939. One image shows horses being loaded on to trains in Wodonga to be sent to the base at Broadmeadows, Victoria. The second image depicts two leaders of the 8th Light Horse Regiment.Caption with Photo 1 WODONGA AND DISTRICT SOLDIERS OF THE KING Top: Wodonga railway station presented busy scenes on Monday when the lighthorsemen and their mounts took possession of it. Bottom- Although the men were jubilant at boarding the train for Broadmeadows the horses did not like the idea. This horse was no exception. Photo 2 TWO LIGHTHORSE LEADERS Lieutenant L. W. Welesmith, Tallangatta (left), discussing the entraining of horses for Broadmeadows at Wodonga, with Lieutenant J. A. Mc-Geoch (Wodonga), before the departure of the 8th Light Horse troop.australian light horse, peter frawley, light horse wodonga

The undated clipping, possibly from the Rutherglen Sun or Border Morning Mail, refers to the purchase of the property in 1955 by R.K. Knight, and the plans for him to sell it to a consortium from Melbourne called Mt. Ophir Pty. Ltd.Newspaper clipping, mounted on yellow paper, describing a change of ownership of Mt Ophir winery, and a proposal to develop it as a tourist resort.mt ophir, mount ophir, wine industry

A reporter and photographer from the Border Morning Mail Albury, visited a troop of the 8th/13th Victorian Mounted Rifles Regiment on a 116 day annual exercise in September 1979. An article entitled "Hide and seek in the bush" written by Tony Wright appeared in the newspaper on 18 September 1979 accompanied, by this photograph taken by Peter Batson. Sergeant Robin Ellison, a citizen soldier, had 20 years service with the regiment.Fine study of citizen soldier from the Albury region during training.Black and white photograph of soldier wearing beret, binoculars around neck and holding an F1 submachine gun. Soldier is Sergeant Robin Ellison, 8th/13th Victorian Mounted Rifles on exercise near Howlong, NSW, September 1979.ellison, wright, batson

Thomas Briggs was a pioneer of the Tawonga District. He worked on his parent's farm, selling goods, droving pigs and travelling to Yackandandah and Bright. He worked with pick and shovel on the Tawonga to Bright Road in 1902. He took up 320 acres of wild forest in Tawonga at 10 cents per acre per year for 20 years. He built a slab and shingle hut and a boundary fence. In 1886 he married Annie Maria Platt parenting 5 sons and 2 daughters until Annie died in 1953, aged 86 years.Thomas Briggs was a pioneer living in the Kiewa Valley with his parents and then with wife and family. This article is a history of his life from 1862 until 1887. See KVHS 0850 for information on the dray used to make the Tawonga Gap road - owned by John Briggs.Newspaper article Page 34 Border Morning Mail, Saturday, March 5, 1988 - Thomas Briggs Born 3rd Nov. 1862 who lived with his family at Upper Gundowring. His travels in the area including the Tawonga Gap and its construction in 1902 and his taking up of land in Tawonga in 1880. The article finishes in 1887 when he married Annie Maria Platt. The Thos Briggs story continues next week.thomas briggs; tawonga; kiewa valley; annie platt

Schuss was advertised as Victoria’s Official Ski Journal It was issued monthly from 1935 to 1961 except during the war when summer issues covered two months. This continued after the war, but it averaged 10 issues annually over its 25 year life. Schuss was published by the Ski Club of Victoria which had a membership of 38 Ski Clubs and demanded to be recognised as the prime authority on skiing in the state. The other 30 ski clubs with 85% of the members disagreed and the politics of skiing became heated. These clubs formed the Federation of Victorian Ski Clubs with their own journal, Ski Horizon. With the establishment of the Victorian Ski Association, Ski-Horizon published its last issue in Nov - Dec. 1955 and the role of the official journal was fully taken over by “Schuss”. This item is significant because it contains stories, images and information documenting the development of the ski facilities at Falls Creek.The journal features stories and events chronicling developments in Victoria and internationally. In this issue:- Page 173 features a report from the Border Morning Mail (Albury) announcing the opening of a new Comfort Station at Falls Creek. Falls Creek is also to have a reticulated village water supply Page 187 in Falls Creek Notes gives greater detail on the opening of the Comfort Station, as well as events to be held in September for Schoolgirls and Schoolboys. The transport provided for skiers by Bob Hymans and Cecil Dobson is also praised. Page 189 advertises two job vacancies at Grand Coeur Chalet.schuss journal, the ski club of victoria, grand coeur chalet, cecil dobson, bob hymans

The office of The Sentinel or Wodonga and Towong Sentinel newspaper was in High Street, Wodonga. The Sentinel began operation in 1885 and was owned, managed and edited by James Ryan. It was published weekly until he was killed by a train at Wodonga station on 27 July 1912. James Ryan was born in Beechworth in 1861 and served his apprenticeship with the printing business of the "Ovens and Murray Advertiser”. For a time, he worked on the Melbourne "Herald”, followed by the Ballarat “Courier”. With a fellow printer, William Oldfield Taylor, he moved to Wodonga and they began the "Wodonga and Towong Sentinel" with the first issue on 29th August 1885. Mr Taylor died in June 1894. After James Ryan’s death the “Sentinel” was continued by his son Charlie until his death 26 February 1965. It was sold to the Border Morning Mail in 1965. The last issue was published on 22 March 1968.This image captures the premises of an important newspaper published in Wodonga for 80 years.A black and white image of the Sentinel newspaper office in Wodonga.At the top of the building "The SENTINEL"wodonga businesses, wodonga & towong sentinel, wodonga buildings

Alexander Wright was killed whilst performing at the Birmingham Empire as the result of a German air Attack in October 1940. The theatre had a direct hit. The stage name of Alex Wright was 'Navarre' "Prince of Mimics". According to Frank Wright Alex was a great impersonator with a unique range Bass - tenor with many accents (not unlike Peter Dawson) "AUSTRALIAN KILLED An Australian, Alexander Wright, radio variety star, who toured Europe and Australia under the pseudonym of Navarre, was killed during a recent air raid in a Midland . town. His broth-er, Frank Wright, is musical director for the London County council."(Border Morning Mail, 22 Oct 1940) Frank Wright was a renown resident of Smeaton, where he was born. He lived at Laura Villa, and attended Smeaton State School. His father William was a gold miner and his mother's name was Sarah. Their family won many singing and instrumental awards. Frank was tutored by Percy Code and became the Australian Open Cornet Champion by the age of eighteen. Sepia formal photograph of a seated man with two boys, one standing on either side of him. They are posed in front of a backdrop showing one side of a window and its curtain, panelling and a painting. The boys are dressed in shoes, socks, knee pants, vests with a chain, white shirts and a jacket. The man is similarly dressed although with long trousers.frank wright, alex wright, navarre, alexander wright, william wright

Des Martin lived all his life in Wodonga, except for his years of service during World War Two. He was raised on the family property Aherlo in the Huon Creek Valley. In 1937 he joined the 8th Light Horse Regiment but in May 1940 led his Wodonga Troop into the 2/2nd Australian Pioneer Battalion, which saw service in Syria, Java, New Guinea and Borneo. After the war, Des returned to Aherlo and his horses. He was granted permission by the Victorian Racing Club to participate as an amateur “gentleman” rider. He was a founder of the Victorian Amateur Riders Association and also the Murray Valley Hunt Club, for which he was Master for 21 years. He was a prolific writer, cartoonist, photographer and poet, contributing to The Border Morning Mail, The Age, and the Herald and Weekly Times amongst other publications. Des Martin’s other literary works included Australia Astride (1959), A Tale of Twin Cities, Part One (1981) and Backing up the Boys (1998). In 1976, Des wrote an historical novel, “Many a Mile”, based on a fictional region which highly resembled the Albury-Wodonga and Upper Murray area of Victoria. It was set in the last 10 years leading up to Federation. Throughout this period tensions (caused by fluctuating border duties, including an infamous impost on cattle and horses) occasioned the intermittent posting of heavily armed police detachments along the River Murray. Des also wrote eight 50-minute scripts from “Many a Mile” as a television series and were presented to Michael Pate, one of Australia’s leading actors and producers. Also, funding was sought through the Australian Broadcasting Commission ... unfortunately the series never came to fruition. This album is a pictorial precis, including photos and scene descriptions, created to promote the concept of the series and have it produced locally in North Eastern Victoria featuring local settings, skilled horsemen and actors. It was to be called “Ringer’s River” ... Ringer being the title accorded to either a top cattle hand, or the fastest shearer in the wool shed. Des Martin died on 12th April 1995.These albums and images are significant because they document literature written by a prominent member of the Wodonga community. The presentation of this precis was supported by several significant district families and individuals.Documents written to introduce the concept of "Ringer's River" to gain interest for the development of a television seriesdes martin, many a mile, ringer's river, northeast victoria stories

This digital image was produced from one of the glass negatives that form part of the collection, probably taken by Louis Haeusler (b.1887) with the photographic equipment in the Wodonga Historical Society Haeusler Collection. Merry-Go-Rounds or Carousels were a popular entertainment accompanying many celebrations and events in Albury and Wodonga from as early as the mid 1870s. They featured at events such as Empire Day and Arbor Day celebrations as well as the Wodonga Racing Club meetings, Wodonga Agricultural Shows and Victory Day celebrations at the end of World War 11. They were operated by a variety of travelling showmen and entrepreneurs. Early merry-go-rounds were steam powered. The merry-go-round in this negative was owned by Anton Weniger of Melbourne. From 1909, Mr Weniger operated a shooting gallery and Steam Riding Gallery on the Lower Esplanade, St. Kilda on land he had leased in 1909 from the St. Kilda Foreshore Trust. Weniger also took his carousels by train to many rural areas, including several visits to Albury, Yarrawonga and Benalla. His largest carousel was designed and built in Melbourne by Herbert Thomson in 1915. It has now been restored and has been on show as the Civic Carousel in Canberra, ACT since 1974. Anton Weniger’s steam merry-go-round was definitely in the Albury- Wodonga area in September 1912. As reported in the Border Morning Mail on Saturday 2 November 1912, Mr. Weniger was the victim of a robbery which included some money and his gold watch and chain, stolen from a railway truck in the Wodonga railway yards. The riding gallery and other belongings had been placed on the truck in Albury after the Albury show and sent on to Wodonga in transit to Wangaratta. Whilst in the Wodonga yards the truck was broken into and the goods stolen. Two of Weniger’s former employees, Herbert Backhouse and Edmund Pressard were subsequently charged with the robbery and sentenced to respective sentences of 3 and 9 months imprisonment, both with hard labour. In January 1916, Weniger’s Steam Riding Gallery was attacked by a group of rioting soldiers as a result of rising anti-German sentiment with the onset of World War 1. As a result, Anton Weniger terminated his interest and lease of the Steam Riding Gallery to his partner, William George Kelly. Although he had lived in Victoria for over 25 years and had been a naturalised Australian for 20 years, Anton Weniger was interned for the duration of World War 1 as an enemy alien. Anton Johannes Matthias Weniger died on 14 August 1923 and is buried in the Brighton General Cemetery, Melbourne, Victoria.This item is unique and has well documented provenance and a known owner. It forms part of a significant and representative historical collection which reflects the local history of Wodonga. It contributes to our understanding of domestic and family life in early twentieth century Wodonga, as well as providing interpretative capacity for themes including local history and social history.Digital image created from the Haeusler Glass negative collection. A large group of people standing around a Merry-Go-Round.At top left of Merry-Go-Round "A.WENIGER./MELBOURNE"wodonga pioneers, haeusler family, glass negatives, dry plate photography, carousel, anton weniger

Thousands of German migrants started a new life at Bonegilla, Victoria in the 1950s. Among them were five men who met each other in Wodonga, became friends and decided to form a German Austrian Club, where they could enjoy the company of likeminded individuals. They were Kurt Mueller, Willi Klimt, Toni Krischa and Erwin Klein from Germany and Manfred Teissl from Austria. On the 16th July 1960, after advertising in the Border Morning Mail, the German Austrian Club in Wodonga was born. Office bearers were Paul Peters as President. Gerhard Ziermann as Secretary and Günter Schmehl as Treasurer. Their aim was "To promote the upkeep of the German language in written and spoken form and to promote good German fellowship, while enjoying functions of a cultural and entertaining nature". By 1963 the Club boasted 40 members, holding meetings at the RSL Clubrooms and other suitable locations before they found a house in Hovell Street, Wodonga. It was used for meetings, Skat meetings, film nights and "Sonnabendschule” or Saturday school where children of members could continue to learn German. The Committee organised a wide range of activities and functions in their small rooms but dreamed of having a bigger home. This became reality in July 1979, when the Committee purchased land from the Albury Wodonga Development Corporation at 5 McFarland Road, Wodonga. The first brick was laid on the Club's land in May 1980, and the double-storey brick building was completed within 12 months voluntarily by Club members. At the same time members supported other organisations and charities in the Wodonga and wider community. The first Oktoberfest in Wodonga was held in 1975, drawing 4,000 attendees. The event was organized to promote German culture, and the profits from the first year were donated to the Wodonga District Hospital, raising $20,000. In 2001 the German Austrian Club was presented with the Certificate of Meritorious Service by the Government of Victoria for Community Works in Wodonga and district. The Club raised $23,000 for the Wodonga Hospital, had numerous fundraisers to assist in bushfires and drought situations and was involved in the Red Cross Calling campaign for many years. After much fundraising, hard work and making their way through extensive government red tape, the Club moved to its new premises in McFarland Road on 1st August 1981. The members continued to make necessary internal adjustments and sought an alcohol licence. The building was officially opened in May 1983. The Club prospered and had 300 members, making it necessary for new applicants to be put on a waiting list to be accepted as members. Interest groups consisted of Competition Air Rifle Shooting Group, a Skat (German Card game) Group, Folk Dancing Group, Ladies Group, Table Tennis Group, Darts Group, Chess Group and the Billiard Group. In later years, as so many Australians became members, the Club’s name was changed to the German Austrian Australian Club. Over recent years patronage and interest in the Club and its activities changed. Children of the original members had become “real Aussies” and did not always want to carry on traditions. Aging membership and lack of volunteers forced the Club to disband in 2025. The Club building has been gifted to the Albury Wodonga Theatre Company.These items are significant because they are representative of an important cultural organisation which operated in Wodonga for over 60 years.Two small flags of Germany and Austria attached to metal stands with string. Each stand has a metal circular base. "Lufthansa" is inscribed on the base.On base: Lufthansagerman austrian australian club, german austrian club

Thousands of German migrants started a new life at Bonegilla, Victoria in the 1950s. Among them were five men who met each other in Wodonga, became friends and decided to form a German Austrian Club, where they could enjoy the company of likeminded individuals. They were Kurt Mueller, Willi Klimt, Toni Krischa and Erwin Klein from Germany and Manfred Teissl from Austria. On the 16th July 1960, after advertising in the Border Morning Mail the German Austrian Club in Wodonga was born. Office bearers were Paul Peters as President. Gerhard Ziermann as Secretary and Günter Schmehl as Treasurer. Their aim was "To promote the upkeep of the German language in written and spoken form and to promote good German fellowship, while enjoying functions of a cultural and entertaining nature". By 1963 the Club boasted 40 members, holding meetings at the RSL Clubrooms and other suitable locations before they found a house in Hovell Street, Wodonga. It was used for meetings, Skat meetings, film nights and Sonnabendschule” or Saturday school where children of members could continue to learn German. The Committee organised a wide range of activities and functions in their small rooms but dreamed of having a bigger home. This became reality in July 1979, when the Committee purchased land from the Albury Wodonga Development Corporation at 5 McFarland Road, Wodonga. The first brick was laid on the Club's land in May 1980, and the double-story brick building was completed within 12 months voluntarily by Club members. At the same time members supported other organisations and charities in the Wodonga and wider community. The first Oktoberfest in Wodonga was held in 1975, drawing 4,000 attendees. The event was organized to promote German culture, and the profits from the first year were donated to the Wodonga District Hospital, raising $20,000. In 2001 the German Austrian Club was presented with the Certificate of Meritorious Service by the Government of Victoria for Community Works in Wodonga and district. The Club raised $23,000 for the Wodonga Hospital, had numerous fundraisers to assist in bushfires and drought situations and was involved in the Red Cross Calling campaign for many years. After much fundraising, hard work and making their way through extensive government red tape, the Club moved to its new premises in McFarland Road on 1st August 1981. The members continued to make necessary internal adjustments and sought an alcohol licence. The building was officially opened in May 1983. The Club prospered and had 300 members, making it necessary for new applicants to be put on a waiting list to be accepted as members. Interest groups formed consisted of Competition Air Rifle Shooting Group, a Skat (German Card game) Group, Folk Dancing Group, Ladies Group, Table Tennis Group, Darts Group, Chess Group and the Billiard Group. In later years, as so many Australians became members, the Club’s name was changed to the German Austrian Australian Club. Over recent years patronage and interest in the Club and its activities changed. Children of the original members had become “real Aussies” and did not always want to carry on traditions. Aging membership and lack of volunteers forced the Club to disband in 2025. The Club building has been gifted to the Albury Wodonga Theatre Company. These items are significant because they are representative of an important cultural organisation which operated in Wodonga for over 60 years.A metal plaque attached to a wooden backing shaped like a scroll. The text is in the form of a letter.Emblem of the Austrian - Australian Clubs Inc. Canberra 28/5/1983 To German Austrian Club Wodonga To Commemorate the Opening of your Club House. You have all the Best Wishes from the Committee & Members of the Austrian Australian Club Canberra Yours Sincerely, Dr. Gunter Brandstetter Presidentgerman austrian australian club, german migrants wodonga

Thousands of German migrants started a new life at Bonegilla, Victoria in the 1950s. Among them were five men who met each other in Wodonga, became friends and decided to form a German Austrian Club, where they could enjoy the company of likeminded individuals. They were Kurt Mueller, Willi Klimt, Toni Krischa and Erwin Klein from Germany and Manfred Teissl from Austria. On the 16th July 1960, after advertising in the Border Morning Mail the German Austrian Club in Wodonga was born. Office bearers were Paul Peters as President. Gerhard Ziermann as Secretary and Günter Schmehl as Treasurer. Their aim was "To promote the upkeep of the German language in written and spoken form and to promote good German fellowship, while enjoying functions of a cultural and entertaining nature". By 1963 the Club boasted 40 members, holding meetings at the RSL Clubrooms and other suitable locations before they found a house in Hovell Street, Wodonga. It was used for meetings, Skat meetings, film nights and Sonnabendschule” or Saturday school where children of members could continue to learn German. The Committee organised a wide range of activities and functions in their small rooms but dreamed of having a bigger home. This became reality in July 1979, when the Committee purchased land from the Albury Wodonga Development Corporation at 5 McFarland Road, Wodonga. The first brick was laid on the Club's land in May 1980, and the double-story brick building was completed within 12 months voluntarily by Club members. At the same time members supported other organisations and charities in the Wodonga and wider community. The first Oktoberfest in Wodonga was held in 1975, drawing 4,000 attendees. The event was organized to promote German culture, and the profits from the first year were donated to the Wodonga District Hospital, raising $20,000. In 2001 the German Austrian Club was presented with the Certificate of Meritorious Service by the Government of Victoria for Community Works in Wodonga and district. The Club raised $23,000 for the Wodonga Hospital, had numerous fundraisers to assist in bushfires and drought situations and was involved in the Red Cross Calling campaign for many years. After much fundraising, hard work and making their way through extensive government red tape, the Club moved to its new premises in McFarland Road on 1st August 1981. The members continued to make necessary internal adjustments and sought an alcohol licence. The building was officially opened in May 1983. The Club prospered and had 300 members, making it necessary for new applicants to be put on a waiting list to be accepted as members. Interest groups formed consisted of Competition Air Rifle Shooting Group, a Skat (German Card game) Group, Folk Dancing Group, Ladies Group, Table Tennis Group, Darts Group, Chess Group and the Billiard Group. In later years, as so many Australians became members, the Club’s name was changed to the German Austrian Australian Club. Over recent years patronage and interest in the Club and its activities changed. Children of the original members had become “real Aussies” and did not always want to carry on traditions. Aging membership and lack of volunteers forced the Club to disband in 2025. The Club building has been gifted to the Albury Wodonga Theatre Company.This item is significant because it is representative of an important cultural organisation which operated in Wodonga for over 60 years.A wooden plaque with metal insignia and a plate with text in German. This plaque was presented by the German Austrian Club of Geelong on the occasion of the 30th Anniversary of the Wodonga Club and bears its insignia.Himmel Glanz und Sterne Ein Stuck Heimat in Der Fern Herzliche Gratulation Zu Eurem 30 Jahres Tag President and Vorstand Translation Sky, splendour and stars A piece of home away from home Congratulations On your 30th anniversary President and Board of Directorsgerman austrian australian club, german migrants wodonga

Thousands of German migrants started a new life at Bonegilla, Victoria in the 1950s. Among them were five men who met each other in Wodonga, became friends and decided to form a German Austrian Club, where they could enjoy the company of likeminded individuals. They were Kurt Mueller, Willi Klimt, Toni Krischa and Erwin Klein from Germany and Manfred Teissl from Austria. On the 16th July 1960, after advertising in the Border Morning Mail the German Austrian Club in Wodonga was born. Office bearers were Paul Peters as President. Gerhard Ziermann as Secretary and Günter Schmehl as Treasurer. Their aim was "To promote the upkeep of the German language in written and spoken form and to promote good German fellowship, while enjoying functions of a cultural and entertaining nature". By 1963 the Club boasted 40 members, holding meetings at the RSL Clubrooms and other suitable locations before they found a house in Hovell Street, Wodonga. It was used for meetings, Skat meetings, film nights and Sonnabendschule” or Saturday school where children of members could continue to learn German. The Committee organised a wide range of activities and functions in their small rooms but dreamed of having a bigger home. This became reality in July 1979, when the Committee purchased land from the Albury Wodonga Development Corporation at 5 McFarland Road, Wodonga. The first brick was laid on the Club's land in May 1980, and the double-story brick building was completed within 12 months voluntarily by Club members. At the same time members supported other organisations and charities in the Wodonga and wider community. The first Oktoberfest in Wodonga was held in 1975, drawing 4,000 attendees. The event was organized to promote German culture, and the profits from the first year were donated to the Wodonga District Hospital, raising $20,000. In 2001 the German Austrian Club was presented with the Certificate of Meritorious Service by the Government of Victoria for Community Works in Wodonga and district. The Club raised $23,000 for the Wodonga Hospital, had numerous fundraisers to assist in bushfires and drought situations and was involved in the Red Cross Calling campaign for many years. After much fundraising, hard work and making their way through extensive government red tape, the Club moved to its new premises in McFarland Road on 1st August 1981. The members continued to make necessary internal adjustments and sought an alcohol licence. The building was officially opened in May 1983. The Club prospered and had 300 members, making it necessary for new applicants to be put on a waiting list to be accepted as members. Interest groups formed consisted of Competition Air Rifle Shooting Group, a Skat (German Card game) Group, Folk Dancing Group, Ladies Group, Table Tennis Group, Darts Group, Chess Group and the Billiard Group. In later years, as so many Australians became members, the Club’s name was changed to the German Austrian Australian Club. Over recent years patronage and interest in the Club and its activities changed. Children of the original members had become “real Aussies” and did not always want to carry on traditions. Aging membership and lack of volunteers forced the Club to disband in 2025. The Club building has been gifted to the Albury Wodonga Theatre Company.This item is significant because it is representative of an important cultural organisation which operated in Wodonga for over 60 years.A small metal plaque on a wooden backing with red text. It includes the insignia of the Austrian Cultural Society of Melbourne.Presented To The GERMAN-AUSTRIAN CLUB Wodonga Congratulations On Your 40th ANNIVERSARY From the President & Committee AUSTRIAN CULTURAL SOCIETY (AUSTRIAN CLUB) Melb Incgerman austrian australian club, german migrants wodonga

Thousands of German migrants started a new life at Bonegilla, Victoria in the 1950s. Among them were five men who met each other in Wodonga, became friends and decided to form a German Austrian Club, where they could enjoy the company of likeminded individuals. They were Kurt Mueller, Willi Klimt, Toni Krischa and Erwin Klein from Germany and Manfred Teissl from Austria. On the 16th July 1960, after advertising in the Border Morning Mail the German Austrian Club in Wodonga was born. Office bearers were Paul Peters as President. Gerhard Ziermann as Secretary and Günter Schmehl as Treasurer. Their aim was "To promote the upkeep of the German language in written and spoken form and to promote good German fellowship, while enjoying functions of a cultural and entertaining nature". By 1963 the Club boasted 40 members, holding meetings at the RSL Clubrooms and other suitable locations before they found a house in Hovell Street, Wodonga. It was used for meetings, Skat meetings, film nights and Sonnabendschule” or Saturday school where children of members could continue to learn German. The Committee organised a wide range of activities and functions in their small rooms but dreamed of having a bigger home. This became reality in July 1979, when the Committee purchased land from the Albury Wodonga Development Corporation at 5 McFarland Road, Wodonga. The first brick was laid on the Club's land in May 1980, and the double-story brick building was completed within 12 months voluntarily by Club members. At the same time members supported other organisations and charities in the Wodonga and wider community. The first Oktoberfest in Wodonga was held in 1975, drawing 4,000 attendees. The event was organized to promote German culture, and the profits from the first year were donated to the Wodonga District Hospital, raising $20,000. In 2001 the German Austrian Club was presented with the Certificate of Meritorious Service by the Government of Victoria for Community Works in Wodonga and district. The Club raised $23,000 for the Wodonga Hospital, had numerous fundraisers to assist in bushfires and drought situations and was involved in the Red Cross Calling campaign for many years. After much fundraising, hard work and making their way through extensive government red tape, the Club moved to its new premises in McFarland Road on 1st August 1981. The members continued to make necessary internal adjustments and sought an alcohol licence. The building was officially opened in May 1983. The Club prospered and had 300 members, making it necessary for new applicants to be put on a waiting list to be accepted as members. Interest groups formed consisted of Competition Air Rifle Shooting Group, a Skat (German Card game) Group, Folk Dancing Group, Ladies Group, Table Tennis Group, Darts Group, Chess Group and the Billiard Group. In later years, as so many Australians became members, the Club’s name was changed to the German Austrian Australian Club. Over recent years patronage and interest in the Club and its activities changed. Children of the original members had become “real Aussies” and did not always want to carry on traditions. Aging membership and lack of volunteers forced the Club to disband in 2025. The Club building has been gifted to the Albury Wodonga Theatre Company.This item is significant because it is representative of an important cultural organisation which operated in Wodonga for over 60 years.A small metal plaque on a wooden backing with red text. It includes the insignia of the Austrian Cultural Society of Melbourne.Congratulations and Best Wishes German-Austrian Australian Club (Wodonga) Inc. 50th Anniversary From the President & Members Austrian Cultural Society Austrian Club Melbourne Inc.german austrian australian club, german migrants wodonga

Alexander Wright was born on 25 August, 1898 in Smeaton He was the brother of musician Frank Wright. Alex Wright was killed whilst performing at the Birmingham Empire as the result of a German air Attack in October 1940. The theatre had a direct hit. According to Frank Wright Alex was a great impersonator with a unique range Bass - tenor with many accents (not unlike Peter Dawson) "AUSTRALIAN CARUSO Smeaton Boy's Fame Andre Navarre, who left Australia about three years ago to study opera in Europe, bids fair to take a place among the world's great tenors. A few months ago Navarre sang for Melba for the first time, and she immediately acclaimed him to be a finished artist, describing his voice as the nearest approach to the immortal Caruso she had ever heard, writes the Ballarat "Courier." Andre Navarre is, however, only a stage name adopted by Alexander Wright, a son of Mr. and Mrs. William. Wright, of Armstrong street North, Ballarat, and brother of Mr. Frank Wright and Mrs. William Ritchie, of that city. Born at smeaton 31 years ago, in what may be termed a musical atmosphere; Alex. Wright showed a definite desire to sing at a very early age, and in his boyhood figured as soloist at school concerts, etc. His youth was spent around Smeaton, working at home and at various farms in the district until he was about 19 years of age, when he secured a position at the Dunlop rubber works, Melbourne. Up to this period Wright had no vocal training whatever, but being the possessor of a good resonant baritone voice, was persuaded by some of his friends to "have a go at the stage.'' Securing a position in the chorus of "Maid of the Mountains," which was at that time showing at the Theatre Royal, he soon made his voice heard to advantage, and also commenced to take lessons from Signor Robottaro. It was about this time that Wright was invited by a fellow musician to a musical evening at which a member of Rigo's grand opera company, then performing at " The Playhouse," was also present. Hearing Wright sing, the musician immediately said : ' You're a fool to waste your time in a chorus with that voice. Rigo is looking for a singer like you for the role of 'Figaro' in 'Barber of Seville'." Alex, however, did not take the remark seriously, and it was only after the numerous persuasions of friends who obviously knew the real value of his voice that the modest young man was eventually induced to meet Rigo. The Italian maestro was so delighted with the voice that without hesitation he was given the principle role of "The Barber" to study. Many singers having previously been tried and rejected for the part, Wright was astonished at his success in being chosen, and awakened suddenly to the fact by the maestro that a world voice, if properly trained, would surely develop in the young artist, Alex at once settled down to study, and all day long in his boarding house at St. Kilda could be heard rehearsing his new role. In less than a month he had completely mastered the part, and on the opening night, in the exacting role of "The Barber," he was an outstanding success. Later, he toured Australia with many leading artists, including Elsa Stralia and Harry Lauder, and spent his last two years in Sydney, where he was engaged as soloist in the biggest picture house. Realising that a training in Italy and on the Continent was essential for a successful operatic singer, the young artist decided to go overseas to continue his studies. He did not leave Australia, however, before he gratuitously gave a concert in his little home town to the obvious delight of all his old friends, who flocked from all parts of the district to hear him. The hall was packed to overflowing , and so pleased was Alex with the tumultuous reception he received that he sang fewer than 20 songs. Once in Italy, he lost no time in placing himself under the tuition of Cottone, and it was at the studio of this maestro that he met Toti dal Monte, a former protege of the same master. Two years were spent in Italy, when "Navarre" learned to speak the Italian language fluently, and acquired a wide knowledge of the operas. He sang in Milan about a year ago, and was paid some glowing tributes by the Italian Press critics, who likened his voice to that of Caruso. From Italy he went to Paris, where he met John Brownlee and many other famous singers. The critics on the Continent are unanimous that Andre Navarre-the unassuming Smeaton boy, whom his schoolmates still affectionately call "Hock"--is destined to become one of the luminaries in music history. It is interesting to recall some facts concerning the remarkable family from which this artist springs. Four other members have won championship honors in the musical world. Mr. Frank Wright has the Australasian cornet championship to his credit ; Mr. Norman Wright, of Sydney, has won a tenor championship of New Zealand, and has recorded for the Columbia Gramophone Company ; Mrs. Wm. Ritchie ( formerly Miss Laura Wright) won the A.N.A. contralto championship in Melbourne; whilst the oldest member, Lydia (Mrs. C. Cane, now in N.Z.) won the violin championship at South Street when 17 years of age. Last year Mrs. and Mr. Wright celebrated their golden wedding. Both of the old folk are intensely musical, and it has been said that the voice of the mother, although entirely untrained, showed in her earlier days glimpses of the beautiful quality which made Melba famous. Andre Navarre does not propose leaving the Continent for some time. Recently he was offered a 12 months' contract to sing in London for £2500 but on the advice of Melba and his coach, it was refused on the grounds that yet another 12 months' French study was necessary to ensure absolute perfection. That "Alex " has lost none of his school-boy wit is evinced by his own jocular remark that he has "a top C sharp that will crack every window in the Sydney Town Hall!" (Horsham Times, 20 February 1931) "AUSTRALIAN KILLED An Australian, Alexander Wright, radio variety star, who toured Europe and Australia under the pseudonym of Navarre, was killed during a recent air raid in a Midland . town. His broth-er, Frank Wright, is musical director for the London County council."(Border Morning Mail, 22 Oct 1940) Black and white image of Smeaton born Alexander Wright whose professional name was Navarre "Prince of Mimics". alexander wright, alec wright, navarre

non-fictionThis book tells the stories and encounters of Reg Morley who ran Albury-Wodonga's first private security service for 12 years from 1958. Sworn in by Albury Police Inspector Jack Burke as a Special Constable, Mr. Morley started out his business with barely enough clients to make a living. Eventually it became a great success, and he sold the business in 1970 to Metropolitan Security Services. The stories are accompanied by Border Morning Mail clippings of events.border security albury-wodonga, crime albury wodonga, border patrol, reg morley

non-fictionA collection of 17 articles originally published as stories in The Border Morning Mail. Stories of pioneer life, together with photos of people and places associated with the early history of the Upper Murray.frontier and pioneer life -- murray river region, murray river region, pioneers victoria