Gertrude Perry was born in California Gully in 1917. Her singing skills were recognized at an early age. She later sang with local choirs and sang on radio. She was involved with the Bendigo Operatic Society for many years. Gertrude began her working life in sales. After studying book keeping she worked at the Bendigo Ordnance Factory during WW2 and then worked for local solicitors and accountants. Gertrude was involved with many community and sporting organizations.Gertrude Perry Collection - invitation from California Gully P.S. No 123 to Centenary 1983 July 1, 2 & 3; Belltopper Hill 1883. invitation has green print on beige card, folded with the activities over three days printed inside. Card invites Miss Perry. Five items have been ticked to attend over Sat. and Sun. Portion of card is missing probably a RSVP section to inform the committee of Miss Perry's intention to attend the \School's Centenary.Internal invitation is made to Miss Perry to attend. Five items have been ticked to attend.physical culture class, fitness, exercise

sepia photograph: California Gully State School pupils of Grade 4. Class board shows ' No. 125, G IV' Photo shows two adult males ( Head teacher and assistant) . Four rows of students. Names of many pupils are noted in ballpoint ink on surface of the print together with the two teachers names. In grey lead pencil ' Belltopper Hill S.S. 1901' G.P. 84 in ink top RH corner. Written on back in ball point ' taken July 1901 ( I was 10 years of age ) prev. no. 2000-561-01 Names of students printed on photo: Abercrombie H.T., Millie Ferguson, Lily Cresswell, Laura Carter, Florrie Herbert, Florrie Lewis, Bertha Walter, Warren Anr, White, Schilling, Mable Trewarther, Nelly Neerhot, McKerliek Tom Hutchison, Gam Richards, Les Ennor,Bill Palmer, Bob Sporle, Christie, Bob Merrifield, Merriefield, Alice Cruse, Bodilly, McKerlie, Les Martin ( killed in mine ) Sam Jury, Elksie Ennor, Herb Pearce, Maude Christie, Reeves, Jack Hills, Bob Sporle, T. Hill, E. Collier, Valentine, Lily Jackson, Jack Nills, Les Mathews, Claude Hocking, Norm Evely, Paynting, Reg Miller, C.A. Searby ( later Principal of Melbourne Boys' High School )organization, education, california gully p.s.