Ardmona Choral GroupPhotograph of Ardmona Choral Group

The urban development of Surrey Hills occurred largely followed the extension of the railway to Lilydale from 1882 and by the late 1880s a variety of sporting and other cultural clubs and societies had been established, many being associated with the local churches. Ken James researched this book for the Surrey Hills Historical Society, of which he is a member, using material and photos from the Surrey Hills Historical Society collection, material from TROVE and other sources. There is a history of 82 groups and where possible dates of operation are included.music, basketball, bowls, cricket, cycling, football, golf, gymnastics, hurling, netball, rifle shooting, swimming, table tennis, tennis, squash, walking, brass bands, choral groups, debating, dramatic clubs, musical club, operatic society, surrey hills orchestra, quadrille, rose club, our holy redeemer church, surrey hills church of christ, surrey hills methodist church, st stephens presbyterian church, australian natives association, balwyn combined, catholic young men's society, surrey hills baptist church, surrey hills independent order of rechabites, wyclif congregational church, surrey hills college, hockey, chatham netball club, blue bell tennis club, benson street methodist church, our ladies wattle park, surrey hills state school old scholars tennis club, surrey squash centre, surrey hills neighbourhood centre, cantrices ladies choir, surrey hills choristers, surrey hills everleigh private amateur dramatic club, field naturalists, holy redeemer basketball, holy trinity basketball, surrey hills church of christ basketball, holy trinity church of england, surrey hills methodist basketball, surrey hills presbyterian basketball, surrey hills bowls club, surrey hills ladies bowls club, surrey hills ana bowls club, surrey hills ior bowls club, balwyn combined cricket club, holy redeemer young men's society cricket club, holy trinity cricket club, surrey hills ana cricket club, surrey hills baptist cricket club, surrey hills church of christ cricket club, surrey hills cricket club, surrey hills ior cricket club, surrey hills junior cricket club, surrey hills methodist cricket club, surrey park combine cricket club, wyclif congregational cricket club, wyclif uniting cricket club, wyclif cricket club, surrey hills cycling club, venture cycle, venture cycling club, surrey hills neighbourhood centre cycling group, balwyn combined football club, surrey college football club, surrey hills combined football club, holy redeemer young men's society football club

Photocopy of black and white photograph of the 1957 choral madrigal group at Williamstown High School. Miss Tierney is the teacher.willkiamstown high school, 1957, madrigal, singing, choral

This is a paper back book of 128 pages with plastic binding. It has a red cover with black printing, ornate lettering and a sketch of a tent. The booklet includes printed material and photographs in colour.non-fictionA compilation of the first 11 years of the choral group, The Red Tent singers Warrnambool.red tent singers, warrnambool

The Warrnambool and District Historical Society was housed since the early 1970s in the old caretaker’s cottage in Gilles Street (called today History House). While History House was being renovated the Historical Society, in association with the Warrnambool Family History Group, was housed in the Mechanics Institute building at Flagstaff Hill Maritime Museum. In 2013 new buildings were placed at the rear of Mozart Hall next to History House and called Heritage Works. The two groups moved from Flagstaff Hill late in 2013 and the new facility was officially opened in March 2014 by the Premier of Victoria, Dr Denis Napthine. The Mozart Choral Group was also involved in the opening as this group shares some of our facilities.This invitation is of some historical importance as a record of the opening of HeritageWorks - a significant milestone in the history of both the Warrnambool and District Historical Society and the Warrnambool Family History GroupThis is an A4 sheet of thickened card. It has a cream-coloured background with the logo of Heritage Works in red and green print and the other printed material is in black print. There is an image in grey tonings of the old Sea Water Baths in Gilles Street at the bottom of the sheetwarrnambool and district historical society, heritage works

Black and white photo of Bendigo Choral Society of 1912. Group of 18 men and 24 women. Timber embossed frame. Markings/Inscriptions: Richards & Co. 23 Sturt street. Ballarat.Richards & Cophotograph, portrait, group

Black and white photo of Bendigo Choral Society 1912, mixed group of young people. Markings/Inscriptions: Bendigo Choral Society 1912 (Photo 6 sticker) Richards & Co 23 Sturt St BallaratRichards & Co 23 Sturt St Ballaratorganization, club/society, bendigo choral society, richards & co 23 sturt st ballarat

This is a programme for a concert put on by the Warrnambool High School students in 1927. The concert included choral items, folk dancing, a gymnasium display and two one-act plays. Warrnambool High School was established in 1907 and merged with Warrnambool North Technical School in the 1990s to form Warrnambool College. One of the performers in this concert was the Head Teacher of Warrnambool High School, Colonel George Langley. This programme is of interest as an example of the entertainment offered in Warrnambool in the 1920s by a local group. This is a one-page pink sheet of paper with black printing. The page has a black decorative border and the pink colouring has faded. The inscriptions are handwritten in blue ink. ‘1927’ ‘N. J. Absalom’ warrnambool high school, history of warrnambool

This music stand belonged to Eva Veronica Gaspar. Miss Gaspar (1913 -1978) was one of Warrnambool's most notable musicians and photographers. She gave free music lessons to Warrnambool and district children, organised choral festivals and ran a printing business. She was a life member of the Warrnambool Music Society and organized the Mozart Music Festival for many years. She was a Warrnambool Citizen of the Year 1956 and was awarded a British Empire Medal in 1972 for her services to music. She also conducted the Warrnambool Civic Orchestra, St. Joseph's church choir, junior choirs and recorder groups. In 1977 she held an exhibition at the Warrnambool Art Gallery of her photographs, drawings and monochromes. This music stand was used by Eva Gaspar mainly in Mozart Hall in Gilles Street. This stand is of interest as a memento of the work of Eva Gaspar an important musician in Warrnambool in the twentieth century.This is a wooden music stand with a circular base on four feet. The base has an outer ridge with a shallow indent and a domed top into which the pedestal is attached. The pedestal has decorative features . The ledge at the top is rectangular shaped with a projecting curved edge at the base. The top has a compartment for holding music and/or notes. The pedestal is attached to the top tray with a circular brace and metal screws. The whole item has been varnished but is stained and rubbed. Underneath the tray are stencilled letters in white paint.C. W. M.S.eva gaspar, music stand

Sepia photo: large group - 3 rows of women dressed in long white dresses; all women are wearing a ribbon on their chest. Two rows of men dressed in black suits, with stand up collars and bow ties. Woman in centre of 2 row has lace covered long dress and is carrying a pointer. Possibly Bendigo Choral Society 1912?Richard & Co., 23 Sturt Street, Ballaratperson, group, performing group

sepia print on card of Golden Square Methodist Choral Society. 21 males, 32 females. Stage type backdrop at rear of group, carpet in front. Females dressed in long satin dresses: men in dinner suits. Written in blue ink on back: Golden Square Methodist Choral Society, State Champions, Bendigo Competitions.unknownorganization, club/society, golden square methodist choir

Hand-written letter to the President/Secretary, Long Gully Historical Group, dated 7/10/2000 enquiring about the Wilson family from the late 19th Century. He was interested about his paternal Grandmother, Lillian Rubina Wilson and her brother James Maitland Wilson who was killed in France in 1917. Their parents were Elizabeth Wilson nee Jolly and James Wilson. He asks for any knowledge, photos or anecdotes. Signed John Reynolds.bendigo, history, long gully history group, the long gully history group - letter from john reynolds, long gully historical society, lillian rubina wilson, james maitland wilson, honour rolls memorial military museum, elizabeth wilson nee jolly, james wilson, long gully (female) choir or singing/choral group, john reynolds

Black and white photograph (2 copies)Image shows group in a variety of fancy dress posing in outdoor setting.

These theatre chairs had been used in the Mozart Hall in Warrnambool for many years but are now no longer required. They were about to be offered for anyone to take but just by chance Flagstaff Hill’s Manager heard about them from a friend in Melbourne. Our Manager thought it important to keep the chairs in Warrnambool as they were significant to our local history and could be incorporated in our Museum. He made arrangements to collect and install them in Flagstaff Hill’s Theatrette. Originally these theatre chairs belonged to Warrnambool Town Hall. When The Warrnambool Baths (or Swimming Pool) in Gillies Street closed, due to the Health Act of 1958, the changing rooms were taken over by the Mozart Group. The building was modified and set up for musical concerts with the name Mozart Hall. The seats were re-covered by Miss Eva Gaspar, Director of the Warrnambool Music Society, with assistance from group members. The material was order by W.C. James (Treasurer) in 1964, at a cost of 26 pound and 10 shillings (£26-10), and supplied by Jacka-Wortley Fabrics Pty Ltd, Upholstery and Furnishing Supplies, 157-163 Pelham Street, Carlton, Melbourne, Victoria. The supplier’s telephone was “JACKAFAB” (5222 2322). The fabric was delivered to J. Hulin of 116 Belmore Rd, Warrnambool. The manufacturer of the chairs, Riddell & Preece Pty Ltd of Melbourne, also supplied theatre chairs for other public buildings including (1) the Ozone Theatre in Enfield, South Australia, in 1929, (2) the Gallery of the Horsham Town Hall in Victoria (at 26/6 each, that is 26 shillings and sixpence, approximate conversion in 2014 to $100.00au), (3) in 1927 in the Gallery of the Kyenton Mechanics’ Institute (4) in 1926, Horsham Theatre. (In May 2018 a transfer of three banks of chairs was made from Flagstaff Hill to the Australian Centre for the Moving Image in Melbourne.) The chairs are of local historical and social significance. Theatre chairs. The sixteen sets (groups or banks) of complete chairs, four seats per chair, give a total of 64 seats. Each chair has timber framed seats, with arm rests, upholstered in red vinyl. The seats are set into decorative gilt iron frames which incorporate five legs, all set into two timber floor rails. The seats are hinged to fold upwards and rest against the backrests. On ironwork "PTY. LTD"flagstaff hill, warrnambool, shipwrecked coast, flagstaff hill maritime museum, maritime museum, shipwreck coast, flagstaff hill maritime village, great ocean road, theatre chairs, theatre seats 1939, warrnambool town hall seats, mozart hall warrnambool, theatre furniture, mechanics’ institute chairs, j hulin warrnambool, mozart hall choral group, eva gaspar, warrnambool music society, w.c. james, jacka-wortley fabrics pty ltd

Lieutenant General Robert Stephenson Smyth Baden-Powell, 1st Baron Baden-Powell, OM, GCMG, GCVO, KCB, KStJ, DL, was a British Army officer, writer, founder and first Chief Scout of the world-wide Scout Movement, and founder, with his sister Agnes, of the world-wide Girl Guide / Girl Scout Movement Kingston H Pack was a group located in South East Melbourne The Scout and Guide movement was a very popular post war youth movement that taught children self confidence, reliability, outdoor survival skills, with companionship, adventure, fun and discipline.A brown cotton Brownie Guide Uniform with achievement badges sewn on sleeves, shoulder and chest and a yellow tie with buttons and a brass clover badge On Right Sleeve ; 8 Achievement Badges, Right Chest ; Highway, Vent Pack On Left Shoulder ; Kingston H Pack Sth Metro Region , Patch with Star 2 ; Left Sleeve: Venture Triangle , Pack Holiday; Left Chest: Brownie , 2 yellow stripes girl guides, brownies, general baden-powell, baden -powell agnes, kingston h pack brownie guides, scouting, clothing, underwear, petticoats, knitting, dressmaking, theatrical props, craftwork, sequins, beading, early settlers, moorabbin shire, mechanics institute cheltenham, ormond choral society, postworld war 11 settlers, housing estates moorabbin 1950, bentleigh, ormond, moorabbin, cheltenham, drama societies, musical society cheltenham, clark judy, reed gladys, reed george

Gladys Reed was a member of the Ormond Choral Society c 1950. who performed plays and musicals the City of Moorabbin and she was skilled in hand knitting, crochet and dressmaking. Her garments were used by her family and the Ormond Choral Society . Patons' & Baldwin Ltd began as two separate companies: J & J Baldwin and Partners, founded in the late 1770s by James Baldwin of Halifax, West Yorkshire, England, and John Paton Son & Co., founded in 1814 by John Paton of Alloa, Scotland. Both men had formed their businesses using the spinning mule developed by Samuel Crompton. They mainly produced yarns for commercial knitting machines. The two companies merged in 1920 and diversified into producing wool for home knitters, as well as publishing knitting patterns under the "Patons Rose" and "Baldwins Beehive" trademark. By the mid-1930s, the company had establishments across Scotland and Northern England, Canada, New Zealand, Launceston, Tasmania, Australia. The company branched out into various related lines of business, and the development of new products such as nylon and Terylene. In 1961, the company was merged with J & P Coats Ltd. The Patons trademark is still in use today.The yarn production facility at Alloa was closed in 1999 and the large factory in Launceston, Tasmania, Australia,closed in 1997. In 1952 J. & P. Coats and the Clark Thread Co. merged.and in 1961 a merger with Patons and Baldwins created Coats Patons. In 2015 the business returned to the market as "Coats Group".Patons' knitting books have been used by hand knitters in many countries since they were published early in 20thC Gladys Reed and other residents of the City of Moorabbin used these pattern guides to make clothing for their families and community c1950A printed paper booklet with 64 pages of knitting and crochet patterns, instructions, photographs bound by 2 metal staplesFront Cover ; UNIVERSAL/ KNITTING BOOK / SIXTH / ED / ITION / PRICE / NINE / PENCE / Photo of lady knitting / Trade Mark / JOHN PATON, SON & CO. / BRANCH OF PATONS & BALDWINS LTD. / ALLOA / LONDON, MANCHESTER / MELBOURNE / MONTREAL Written top right ; G Reed Back Cover ; Trade Mark / Registered / THIS TRADE MARK / IS YOUR GUARANTEE / WHEN BUYING / PATONS' ALLOA / KNITTING WOOLS knitting, crochet, craftwork, john paton son & co., baldwin j &j ltd, aloa scotland, launceston tasmania, melbourne, knitting mills, knitting books, coates j&p ltd, early settlers, moorabbin shire, mechanics institute cheltenham, ormond choral society, postworld war 11 settlers, housing estates moorabbin 1950, bentleigh, ormond, moorabbin, cheltenham, drama societies, musical society cheltenham, clark judy, reed gladys, reed george

The Back In Your Own Backyard exhibition was a series of pieces from several groups and individuals who live and work in the Western Suburbs. The exhibition did not claim to be an "Art" exhibition although it may look something like it, but perhaps it could be called an exhibition of "Perceptions".Back In Your Own Backyard remarkable insights from an ordinary world A special exhibition, organised by the Living Museum of the West featuring works from Melbourne's Western suburbs October 1988living museum of the west, peter haffenden, bernard smith, peter somerville, a.r.c., keilor cake decorating group, fred pase, west side detailing, frank beattie, jack myers, ronald guy, newport senior citizens, tony hicks, john williams, deer park high school, essendon choral society, 1st melton brownie pack

A5 size publication of the Gipps-Land Gate, April, 2011 featuring an old picture of Dandenong on the cover. Historical Negatives Of Dandenong Dr Charles Wilson Dandenong Choral Society Ella Brennan Turns 100 Eric Hill Vale: Mac Titcher, Chris & Bruce Patchell, Phyllis Yates Worls News Ordish Brickworks Christine Sandra Jolly 1949-2010 Don Shields 1923-2010 Lavender Lace Harking Back 75 Years An interesting group of Early Dandenong Personalities, Places and Eventshotel history, early education in dandenong, interesting milestones, family histories

People who have been identified are Phyliss Payne (2nd row 10th person), Miss King (3rd row 5th person), Mrs Round (3rd row 6th person), Mrs Mether (3rd row 10th person), Mrs Watts (3rd row 12th person), Mr Chambers (4th row 10th person),Group Photo of men and women who were members of the Chelsea Choral Societychelsea choral society, chelsea, choral, society

This is a Photograph of the Stawell Choral Society 1951. Front Row: ?, Mrs Petrie E. Allison, ? , Edith Cox, Joan Coward, Jane Langford, Dorrie Pearson, L.G. Brown. Back Row: L to R: ?, ?, Elsie Rowe, ?, Gwen Reeve. Black and White Photograph of a group male and Female persons, Standing, dress evening, Holding Books in their hands. Trellis and flags in Background. Music Stand on Left, Union Jack in centre, Microphone on stand on right in fore groundstawell, choral society

This Photograph was loaned by Mrs Gwen Reeve to be copied. Black And White photograph of a Large group of People most Standing apart from One Man and Woman seated in front of a Pipe Organ and the group. Men Standing in suits with Black Bow Ties, Man seated has White Bow Tie. Women in White Dresses.st mattews, choral

Stawell Choral Society 1956 on Town Hall stage. Women dressed in evening gowns. Black and White Photograph of a Group of Male and Female Persons, Dressed in evening wear. Taken on a Stagestawell, choral

The children from Bulla Primary School were participating in a performing arts event at their school. The group in the photograph were singing in a choir. Other items that the children performed in were dancing, play acting and playing a musical instrument.Performing Arts is an important subject that is included in the school curriculum as it allows children to express themselves in a number of different ways.A non-digital coloured photograph of five boys and seven girls are standing and sitting in an open area and performing for an audience.bulla primary school, performing arts, choral singing

"Braemar" at 18 Suffolk Road, Surrey Hills - built c1894, demolished in1977 – and home of James Sneddon Snr. and family from 1890 until c1950. We believe it is James is at the gate and his family on the veranda. James was born in Alloa, Clackmannanshire Scotland in 1833, as was his wife Jane. He died in March 1901 and she in March 1911. They are buried in Boroondara Cemetery (Pres B0522) with their daughter Jane (1864-1928). James Sneddon (Snr) was an important man in early Surrey Hills. He established real estate and ironmongery businesses in Union Road – first on the corner of Stirling Crescent and later over the road on the corner of Windsor Crescent. He was chairman of Surrey Hills’ MUIOOF (Manchester Unity Independent Order of Oddfellows). James Sneddon Jnr. followed his father in the family real estate business and was an even busier community man. He was a JP and had roles in the Surrey Hills ANA, the Progress Association and the Choral Society. He lived 2 doors from his father. The real estate business continued on the corner of Windsor Crescent and Union Road (north side) until the business was sold to the Doubleday (family) after WW2.The Sneddon family were early settlers and business owners in Surrey Hills and remained over 3 generations. Different family members held many roles in community organisations. This photo is also important in documenting built heritage that has been demolished.Image of a Victorian, weatherboard, block fronted, single storey house with decorative veranda, viewed from the front. The garden in front of the house is well established and a light-coloured picket fence surrounds the property. Four people are in the photograph, three women (two seated and one standing) on the veranda and one male, who is leaning against the gate post.buildings, structures and establishments, houses, timber houses, house names, braemar, architectural styles, victorian style, families, family group, sneddon family, james sneddon (snr), boroondara cemetery, real estate agent, ironmonger

Black and white photograph of a group of people posing with a trophy.At top on back of photo: "Rutherglen Choral Society (1927-1934 approx.) Names on separate sheet" At bottom right on back of photo: "Iggsten"choirs, choral societies

Environmental approach to preserving Kew Court House 4 June 2010 Paint stripping from older buildings can be a hazardous task. The City of Boroondara has found an environmentally sustainable solution for the works at local heritage icon, the Kew Police Station and Court House. Council used an organic based paint stripping alternative as part of the repairs to the rendering on the building facade. Over nearly three months, the damaged and unsound render was removed, the paint was stripped and the render was repainted. Usually, paint is removed via high pressure water cleaning or sandblasting. This is a harsh method and involves combining extreme high amounts of pressure, water and sand and is highly toxic. It also creates high noise levels. In this 'green' project, Council used a soy bean paint stripper. The process uses a paste-like substance, which is highly effective, non toxic and biodegradable, and applied by hand. Initially, a bandage is applied (much like a leg waxing strip) over the top of paste. It is allowed to dry and then the bandage is stripped off. Noise was kept to a minimum by using the paint stripping alternative. Scrapings and bandages are then bagged and sent to the tip as landfill, so it does not end up in our water supply. The waste and debris don’t run-off into drains, and the bags and bi-products are biodegradable. Studley Ward Councillor Phillip Healey explained that soy bean paint removal is not greatly used in Melbourne or the local government sector. "We know of special cases where it has been used, such as high profile projects like Sydney Harbour Bridge, but Boroondara is one of the first in Victoria to employ this natural plant-based paint-stripping treatment to a large-scale building," Cr Healey said. "What this means is that no harmful substances were used and no injury was caused, soy paint removal also preserves, protects and restores the heritage integrity and decorative stone masonry features of the historic building. "This is a terrific example of our commitment to 'enhancing the environment' which is one of our key directions in the 2010–15 Council Plan." The restoration of the Kew Court House and Police Station is expected to be completed in the year ahead. Council purchased the heritage building in 2007 with the intention for it to be restored and used for the community. The building required extensive renovation including repair of the slate roof and ventilation dome, and the renovation plans include a new foyer, bathrooms and kitchen to ensure the venue meets a broad range of community needs. Heritage Victoria helped fund the cost of the roof repairs with a grant of $250,000, along with the Australian Government contributing $330,000 through its Regional and Local Community Infrastructure Program. Restoration Underway Concept plans for a new performance and exhibition space at the Kew Court House and Police Station have been developed by the City of Boroondara. Two years ago, Council Purchased the Kew Court House and Police Station from the State Government for $825,000 with the intention for it to be restored and used for the community. The building requires extensive renovation including repair of the slate roof and ventilation dome. The renovation plans include a new foyer, bathrooms and kitchen to ensure the venue meets a broad range of community needs. The restoration has been assisted with a Federal Government grant of $330,000 under the Regional and Local Community Infrastructure Program. In 2008, Council was also successful in obtaining a Heritage Victoria Grant of $250,000 towards the costs of the roof repairs. Having satisfied the necessary permit requirements, works are about to commence using slate of a similar quality to the original. The City of Boroondara would like to thank all residents and businesses who have contributed to the Kew Court House Restoration Appeal which has raised $650,000. Special thanks go to a private donor who donated $250,000 and the Kew Senior Citizens Club which contributed $50,000. NEWS FLASH 14th March “Council moves to provide certainty for the restoration of the courthouse”. In a historic meeting last night 13th March 07 at Boroondara Council voted overwhelmingly to complete the purchase of the Kew Court House. The partnership continues between the Kew Court House Restoration Appeal and the Council to see this project through. The project now has the overwhelming support of Council. “It is no longer about “if” it is about “when” the doors will re open” said Prof Peter McIntyre. With the property secured the fundraising can now be completed without the encumbrances and we know the restoration will be undertaken as the funds become available from the appeal. Work can commence as soon as significant fund raising is achieved. “The community, philanthropists and corporations can now enter this project with certainty. 7th March At the Council meeting on 5th March, following many hours of debate a motion was passed by 5 to 4 vote to purchase the Kew Court House and Police Station outright. As of 7th March Cr Dick Menting lodged a rescission notice. This means that there was another Council meeting at 6pm, Tuesday 13th March at Council Chambers. MEDIA RELEASE - Kew, 3rd December 2006 APPEAL LAUNCHED TO SAVE A NATIONAL TREASURE On the morning of Saturday 18th. November 2006 the people of Kew were aroused by the triumphant sound of the Boroondara Brass which had assembled outside the former Kew Police Station. After four long years of neglect, the precinct was being heralded back to life, and what a heartwarming sound it was for all those early shoppers who gathered to hear Cr. Phillip Healey introduce Patrons and supporters of the Save the Court House campaign. Following the speeches, the "Thermometer" was unveiled and the Appeal was formally under way. The various committees have worked very hard during these past weeks. The Kew Court House Arts Association Inc. has been formed under the leadership of Graeme McCoubrie. This organization brings all the amateur theatre groups in the City of Boroondara together with a view to providing them with a permanent performing space within the former Court House. As well as intimate theatre, there will be provision for the staging of instrumental and choral performances before an audience of 40 to 50 people. The Police Station will compliment the function of the Court House by providing a venue for artist groups to exhibit their work, for the Historical Societies of Boroondara to meet, and for study groups to meet, for activities such as play and poetry readings. It will be a Hub for the Arts in Kew. Of course none of this can happen unless the money to pay for restoration of the buildings is raised, and we only have until March 2007 in which to do this. The City of Boroondara, Kew Historical Society and the East Kew Community Bank are working together as a team to make this dream a reality, but WE NEED YOUR HELP. This is a fantastic one-off opportunity, and it must not be wasted. Donations to the Appeal can be made through the Kew East Kew Community Bank or any branch of the Bendigo Bank, or through the Kew Historical Society Inc., P.O. Box 175 Kew Vic 3101. All donations over $2 are tax deductible through the Community Enterprise Foundation. End Media Release Kew Courthouse future looks bright The State Government has accepted an offer from the local government of Boroondara to purchase the former Kew Courthouse and Police Station, Minister for Finance John Lenders said today. In a joint statement with the Mayor of Boroondara, Councillor Jack Wegman, Mr Lenders said he was pleased that agreement had been reached and the contract of sale document finalised. “I welcome the Council making this step towards purchasing this property after recent negotiations,” Mr Lenders said. “The settlement date for the purchase of the property is March 2007. The State government sold the property to Council at a reduced cost of $825,000 for community use. The full value of the buildings on the commercial marketplace was estimated to be about $2million,” he said. Cr Wegman said the Contract of Sale provides that if the funds cannot be raised to restore the property for use as community buildings then they will be returned to the State government. In relation to this additional funding to restore and modernise the buildings, Council and the community will work together over the next eight months, with the encouragement of the State government, Cr Wegman said. Mr Lenders said both he and the Premier had advised the Council of fundraising opportunities to help the Council convert the property for its future use. Cr Wegman noted that applications for funding from the Community Support Fund and for State government heritage grants were being processed. “Council has agreed to a Memorandum of Understanding with the Kew Historical Society outlining arrangements for the Kew Court House Restoration Appeal and Council is delighted with the level of support shown by the community and is confident of a bright future for these historic buildings.” Mr Lenders said the Bracks Government is committed to securing the best outcome when buildings that have once served the community outlive their original purpose. “There is a responsibility for Governments to practice good financial management and achieve the best possible price when an asset is longer used by the State,” he said. “There is also a responsibility to consider the local community. The Government and City of Boroondara have worked hard to achieve a balance between these two interests.” The building ceased to operate as a courthouse in 1971 and as a police station in 2002. Part of the building was also used as a post office and this section of the building was sold by the Commonwealth in 1992 to a private owner and is currently run as a licensed restaurant. It is listed on the State's Heritage Register as a place of historical and architectural significance and is protected by the Victorian Heritage Act. Created: 30 August 2006 Last Update: 10 January 2007 kew, kew court house, phillip slobom, town crier, professor peter mcintyre

Environmental approach to preserving Kew Court House 4 June 2010 Paint stripping from older buildings can be a hazardous task. The City of Boroondara has found an environmentally sustainable solution for the works at local heritage icon, the Kew Police Station and Court House. Council used an organic based paint stripping alternative as part of the repairs to the rendering on the building facade. Over nearly three months, the damaged and unsound render was removed, the paint was stripped and the render was repainted. Usually, paint is removed via high pressure water cleaning or sandblasting. This is a harsh method and involves combining extreme high amounts of pressure, water and sand and is highly toxic. It also creates high noise levels. In this 'green' project, Council used a soy bean paint stripper. The process uses a paste-like substance, which is highly effective, non toxic and biodegradable, and applied by hand. Initially, a bandage is applied (much like a leg waxing strip) over the top of paste. It is allowed to dry and then the bandage is stripped off. Noise was kept to a minimum by using the paint stripping alternative. Scrapings and bandages are then bagged and sent to the tip as landfill, so it does not end up in our water supply. The waste and debris don’t run-off into drains, and the bags and bi-products are biodegradable. Studley Ward Councillor Phillip Healey explained that soy bean paint removal is not greatly used in Melbourne or the local government sector. "We know of special cases where it has been used, such as high profile projects like Sydney Harbour Bridge, but Boroondara is one of the first in Victoria to employ this natural plant-based paint-stripping treatment to a large-scale building," Cr Healey said. "What this means is that no harmful substances were used and no injury was caused, soy paint removal also preserves, protects and restores the heritage integrity and decorative stone masonry features of the historic building. "This is a terrific example of our commitment to 'enhancing the environment' which is one of our key directions in the 2010–15 Council Plan." The restoration of the Kew Court House and Police Station is expected to be completed in the year ahead. Council purchased the heritage building in 2007 with the intention for it to be restored and used for the community. The building required extensive renovation including repair of the slate roof and ventilation dome, and the renovation plans include a new foyer, bathrooms and kitchen to ensure the venue meets a broad range of community needs. Heritage Victoria helped fund the cost of the roof repairs with a grant of $250,000, along with the Australian Government contributing $330,000 through its Regional and Local Community Infrastructure Program. Restoration Underway Concept plans for a new performance and exhibition space at the Kew Court House and Police Station have been developed by the City of Boroondara. Two years ago, Council Purchased the Kew Court House and Police Station from the State Government for $825,000 with the intention for it to be restored and used for the community. The building requires extensive renovation including repair of the slate roof and ventilation dome. The renovation plans include a new foyer, bathrooms and kitchen to ensure the venue meets a broad range of community needs. The restoration has been assisted with a Federal Government grant of $330,000 under the Regional and Local Community Infrastructure Program. In 2008, Council was also successful in obtaining a Heritage Victoria Grant of $250,000 towards the costs of the roof repairs. Having satisfied the necessary permit requirements, works are about to commence using slate of a similar quality to the original. The City of Boroondara would like to thank all residents and businesses who have contributed to the Kew Court House Restoration Appeal which has raised $650,000. Special thanks go to a private donor who donated $250,000 and the Kew Senior Citizens Club which contributed $50,000. NEWS FLASH 14th March “Council moves to provide certainty for the restoration of the courthouse”. In a historic meeting last night 13th March 07 at Boroondara Council voted overwhelmingly to complete the purchase of the Kew Court House. The partnership continues between the Kew Court House Restoration Appeal and the Council to see this project through. The project now has the overwhelming support of Council. “It is no longer about “if” it is about “when” the doors will re open” said Prof Peter McIntyre. With the property secured the fundraising can now be completed without the encumbrances and we know the restoration will be undertaken as the funds become available from the appeal. Work can commence as soon as significant fund raising is achieved. “The community, philanthropists and corporations can now enter this project with certainty. 7th March At the Council meeting on 5th March, following many hours of debate a motion was passed by 5 to 4 vote to purchase the Kew Court House and Police Station outright. As of 7th March Cr Dick Menting lodged a rescission notice. This means that there was another Council meeting at 6pm, Tuesday 13th March at Council Chambers. MEDIA RELEASE - Kew, 3rd December 2006 APPEAL LAUNCHED TO SAVE A NATIONAL TREASURE On the morning of Saturday 18th. November 2006 the people of Kew were aroused by the triumphant sound of the Boroondara Brass which had assembled outside the former Kew Police Station. After four long years of neglect, the precinct was being heralded back to life, and what a heartwarming sound it was for all those early shoppers who gathered to hear Cr. Phillip Healey introduce Patrons and supporters of the Save the Court House campaign. Following the speeches, the "Thermometer" was unveiled and the Appeal was formally under way. The various committees have worked very hard during these past weeks. The Kew Court House Arts Association Inc. has been formed under the leadership of Graeme McCoubrie. This organization brings all the amateur theatre groups in the City of Boroondara together with a view to providing them with a permanent performing space within the former Court House. As well as intimate theatre, there will be provision for the staging of instrumental and choral performances before an audience of 40 to 50 people. The Police Station will compliment the function of the Court House by providing a venue for artist groups to exhibit their work, for the Historical Societies of Boroondara to meet, and for study groups to meet, for activities such as play and poetry readings. It will be a Hub for the Arts in Kew. Of course none of this can happen unless the money to pay for restoration of the buildings is raised, and we only have until March 2007 in which to do this. The City of Boroondara, Kew Historical Society and the East Kew Community Bank are working together as a team to make this dream a reality, but WE NEED YOUR HELP. This is a fantastic one-off opportunity, and it must not be wasted. Donations to the Appeal can be made through the Kew East Kew Community Bank or any branch of the Bendigo Bank, or through the Kew Historical Society Inc., P.O. Box 175 Kew Vic 3101. All donations over $2 are tax deductible through the Community Enterprise Foundation. End Media Release Kew Courthouse future looks bright The State Government has accepted an offer from the local government of Boroondara to purchase the former Kew Courthouse and Police Station, Minister for Finance John Lenders said today. In a joint statement with the Mayor of Boroondara, Councillor Jack Wegman, Mr Lenders said he was pleased that agreement had been reached and the contract of sale document finalised. “I welcome the Council making this step towards purchasing this property after recent negotiations,” Mr Lenders said. “The settlement date for the purchase of the property is March 2007. The State government sold the property to Council at a reduced cost of $825,000 for community use. The full value of the buildings on the commercial marketplace was estimated to be about $2million,” he said. Cr Wegman said the Contract of Sale provides that if the funds cannot be raised to restore the property for use as community buildings then they will be returned to the State government. In relation to this additional funding to restore and modernise the buildings, Council and the community will work together over the next eight months, with the encouragement of the State government, Cr Wegman said. Mr Lenders said both he and the Premier had advised the Council of fundraising opportunities to help the Council convert the property for its future use. Cr Wegman noted that applications for funding from the Community Support Fund and for State government heritage grants were being processed. “Council has agreed to a Memorandum of Understanding with the Kew Historical Society outlining arrangements for the Kew Court House Restoration Appeal and Council is delighted with the level of support shown by the community and is confident of a bright future for these historic buildings.” Mr Lenders said the Bracks Government is committed to securing the best outcome when buildings that have once served the community outlive their original purpose. “There is a responsibility for Governments to practice good financial management and achieve the best possible price when an asset is longer used by the State,” he said. “There is also a responsibility to consider the local community. The Government and City of Boroondara have worked hard to achieve a balance between these two interests.” The building ceased to operate as a courthouse in 1971 and as a police station in 2002. Part of the building was also used as a post office and this section of the building was sold by the Commonwealth in 1992 to a private owner and is currently run as a licensed restaurant. It is listed on the State's Heritage Register as a place of historical and architectural significance and is protected by the Victorian Heritage Act. Created: 30 August 2006 Last Update: 10 January 2007 Colour photograph of the Kew Historical Society holding an event in the Former Kew Court House.kew, kew court house, kew historical society, meeting, city of boroondara