Druids are known to exist from around the 3rd century B.C. Their name may have come from a Celtic word meaning “knower of the oak tree.” Many of their ceremonies were carried out in oak groves, which they considered sacred and members were, at that time a mix of priest, judge, doctor and philosopher. The Druids enjoyed a revival in the 19th century and were taken up enthusiastically during the Victorian era. Druidry was believed to have been introduced into Australia in 1851 with the setting up of the first lodge in Melbourne under the name United Ancient Order of Druids. Unlike the Freemasons, the Druids were not a secret society and were not selective in who they let in, as long as they paid their dues and acted more like a benevolent society than a spiritual movement. "They originally operated when there were few benefits available from the government or employers and the introduction of sick leave and other employer provided benefits, combined with the gradual introduction of government subsidised medicine, caused the need for them to diminish." Druids House — in Swanston Street, was opened by the Lord Mayor in 1927 and was designed to be the movement's national head office. It was completed at a cost of 19,000 pounds. This photograph was believed to have been commissioned by the Druids of Bendigo to the Licensees of the Queens Head pub where they regularly met, situated on the corner of the Bendigo-Maryborough Rd & the Calder Alternate Hwy ( Lockwood Cross Roads). The old Marong Council offices were situated opposite from 1864 until around 1908 when new offices were then built in Marong. It is believed that this photograph and a photo of the pub were given to Marong Shire by descendants of the publicans, probably in the 90’s. Framed black and white group photographic portrait of 37 members of the Sandhurst Chapter of the Druids staged and shot outdoors. Each of the gentlemen is carrying a bouquet of flowers. The photograph has a gold inner mount with the second mount cut to give the impression of a frame. The outer mount is hand painted with botanical motifs and elaborate text c.t. DRUIDS Sandhurst Lodge/ No 247. l.c Presented to Mr and Mrs Chadwick / Lockwood / in recognition for kindness rendered.W. G. Robinson / Photo and J.H. Gribble / Long Gully / 1,11,10robinson photographer, j.h.b. gribble artist, chadwick, shire of marong, city of greater bendigo portraits, city of greater bendigo community groups

Correspondence between Mrs T. R. Mannix, Swan Hill Wolf Cub Pack master to District Scout Commissioner Mr J. I. Samson for an invitation to be included with the local scout groups in functions to welcome Queen Elizabeth and the Duke of Edinburgh to Bendigo on Friday, the 5th of March 1954. The response from the Commissioner included typed plans of the event and maps of the royal tour through the streets of Bendigo starting and finishing at the train station.Set of correspondence including typed gatefold letter, typed plans for placement of visitors and role of the military and maps of CBD Bendigo and of Upper Reserve.queen elizabeth, duke of edinburgh, boy scout association, mayor clayton, city of greater bendigo royal visits, city of greater bendigo community groups, city of greater bendigo tourism

The first Bendigo Easter Fair was held on April 10th and 11th 1871 and remains one of Australia’s longest running annual community events. Its purpose was to raise funds in aid of two local charities; The Bendigo Hospital, and The Bendigo Benevolent Asylum. In the first year the event raised 2,560 pounds which was split between the two charities, each receiving f 1,280. A fundraising event called the Popular Girl was held from 1930 to 1996 in which well-known local young ladies raised money for charity. The woman who raised the largest amount of money was crowned as Miss Popular Girl. The competition is no longer held. The 2010 parade contained a section in which a number of past Popular Girls paraded once again. The Popular Girl contest was preceded by the Queens' competition from about 1916 to 1929. The winner was selected by receiving the most votes which translated to funds raised for their respective charities. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bendigo_Easter_Festival Lorna Dorothy Stevens (Jamieson) born in Eaglehawk in 1910 d 2000 in South Australia, daughter of William Eccles Jamieson and Emma Jane Jamieson.Printed certificate featuring gold on cream coloured paper. Text is printed inside pattered boarder. In 1939 is was presented to Lorna Jamieson for fund raising one thousand and one pounds for the Bendigo Easter Fair. 1939 / Bendigo Easter Fair / Charity Carnival / Mitchell St. / Popular Girl / Miss Mena Bailie / Presented to / Lorna Jamieson / in appreciation of services / rendered and to commemorate / the citory of the Mitchell St. / Popular Girl (Miss Mena / Bailie) with the record sum of / One Thousand and One / Pounds / For and on behalf of the / Mitchell St. Popular Girl Committee / H. Muller, Pres / Geo. A. Wright, Treas. / M Hammill, Sec.city of greater bendigo easter fair, city of greater bendigo tourism, making a nation exhibiton, city of greater bendigo community groups, city of greater bendigo events

Alec Sandner was a Strathfieldsaye Shire Councillor from 1982 -1987, Strathfieldsaye Shire President from 1985 – 86 and Mayor of Bendigo 2011 - 2012. This album provides at in depth understanding of the many responsibilities of a Shire President and partners. The newspaper articles, mostly collected from the Bendigo Advertiser, provides commentary on the key issues of the times. Fifty page photo album containing invitations, photographs, newspaper cuttings and event memorabilia dating from 6th March - 6th August 1986, documenting events attended by Alec and Helen Sandner during Alec's time as Strathfieldsaye Shire President. Contents are arranged chronologically and provides an extensive overview of the breadth of events and activities a role such as Shire President and Lady are involved in. Highlights include Invitation to Government House Melbourne to meet Queen Elizabeth and the Duke of Edinburgh ( 6th March, 1986) and initial plans to amalgamate Shire's across Victoria including Strathfieldsaye Shire with the City of Bendigo.sandner collection, helen sandner, eugene sandner, mollie sandner, shire of strathfieldsaye, president of strathfieldsaye shire, strathfieldsaye shire council, city of greater bendigo events, city of greater bendigo community groups

The 'New' City of Bendigo baths also known as 'The Baths' were opened on 26th February,1913 at a cost of £2000. These baths made use of an existing dam and had men only and ladies bathing areas as well as a 'paddling paddock' for young children. This set of plans is for the Men's Bathing shed which serviced the men's bathing area adjacent to the still existing tennis courts on Barnard Street. In 1958 the Municipal Baths were replaced by an Olympic Pool and £17,000 was raised by public subscription towards this pool’s construction. Ink, pen, pencil and watercolour architectural drawing for the proposed new baths at the Upper Reserve on Barnard Street, Bendigo.New baths / at Upper Reserve Bendigo / for the Bendigo City Council / Elevation facing tennis courts / Elevation of Terminals at A, A, / Elevation facing Barnard Street / This is one of the drawings /referred to in my contract/ dated 18th November 1912 / Signed Robert J Rogers / (unknown) / Mayor Jas Semmensbendigo swimming club, rosalind park, upper reserve bendigo, faith leech memorial swimming pool, bendigo baths, city of greater bendigo community groups

Freemasonary or Masonry has its beginnings in local guilds of stonemasons who from the end of 13th century regulated the qualification of stonemasons. Modern Freemasonry uses scriptures which include ritual practices and ethical conduct as part of its foundation and every member must profess a belief in a Supreme Being. Women are not allowed to be admitted and discussion of religion and politics is not to take place within the lodge. Freemasons meet in local Lodges which are supervised at a regional level by a Grand Lodge. The degrees of Freemasonry retain the three grades of medieval craft guilds, those of Entered Apprentice, Journeyman or fellow (now called Fellowcraft), and Master Mason. The candidate of these three degrees is progressively taught the meanings of the symbols of Freemasonry and entrusted with grips, signs, and words to signify to other members that he has been so initiated. The degrees are part allegorical morality play and part lecture. Candidates for Freemasonry will usually have met the most active members of the Lodge they are joining before being elected for initiation. (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Freemasonry) The Golden Lodge of Sandhurst was established as the first Masonic Lodge in Bendigo in 1854. Many prominent men including City Councilors were lodge members at it was a popular way for men to socialise. As the masonic movement expanded further lodges were established in Bendigo and the surrounding Boroughs and Shires. The Golden and Corinthian Lodges purchasing two blocks of land in a prominent position in View Street in 1866 with the intention of erecting a new temple and after amalgamating in 1872 appointed architects Vahland and Getzschmann to design the building. The Bendigo Masonic Hall (now the Capital Theatre) was built in 1873 -74 for both public and private use and contained lodge rooms, a public tavern anda concert hall. The Masonic section occupied the northern side of the building at ground floor level and included a lodge room at the rear, a library and reading room, and other affiliated rooms. Walls of the entry hall and lodge room were decorated with classical columns and panels ornamented with Masonic emblems. The upper level of the building contained a large hall with balcony at the north end and removable stage at the south end. Elaborately decorated with Masonic emblems, this hall was used for Masonic purposes as well as being available to the wider community for social events. The tavern, which became known as the Masonic Hotel, occupied the basement and the ground floor of the southern side of the building and included a sitting room, parlours, billiard room, bedrooms, kitchen, cellars and servants' rooms. It appears that two public entrances were provided for this section, one directly from street level into the basement, the other from the public entry hall. Invitation for the Installation of two Lodge Brothers. Half fold design printed in gold, brown, light blue, dark blue and black ink on white card. Front and back cover decorated with masonic symbols. Menu listed inside. Front cover: Zenith & Golden Corinthian Lodges,/ No. 52 & No. 7./ Joint / Installation / of / Bros. K. J. Fullerton / and W. F Creeth / Masonic Hall / Wednesday, June 30th , 1909 bendigo masonic hall, capital theatre bendigo, milburn catering bendigo, making a nation exhibition, bendigo masonic lodge, city of greater bendigo events, city of greater bendigo community groups

Freemasonary or Masonry has its beginnings in local guilds of stonemasons who from the end of 13th century regulated the qualification of stonemasons. Modern Freemasonry uses scriptures which include ritual practices and ethical conduct as part of its foundation and every member must profess a belief in a Supreme Being. Women are not allowed to be admitted and discussion of religion and politics is not to take place within the lodge. Freemasons meet in local Lodges which are supervised at a regional level by a Grand Lodge. The degrees of Freemasonry retain the three grades of medieval craft guilds, those of Entered Apprentice, Journeyman or fellow (now called Fellowcraft), and Master Mason. The candidate of these three degrees is progressively taught the meanings of the symbols of Freemasonry and entrusted with grips, signs, and words to signify to other members that he has been so initiated. The degrees are part allegorical morality play and part lecture. Candidates for Freemasonry will usually have met the most active members of the Lodge they are joining before being elected for initiation. (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Freemasonry) The Golden Lodge of Sandhurst was established as the first Masonic Lodge in Bendigo in 1854. Many prominent men including City Councilors were lodge members at it was a popular way for men to socialise. As the masonic movement expanded further lodges were established in Bendigo and the surrounding Boroughs and Shires. The Golden and Corinthian Lodges purchasing two blocks of land in a prominent position in View Street in 1866 with the intention of erecting a new temple and after amalgamating in 1872 appointed architects Vahland and Getzschmann to design the building. The Bendigo Masonic Hall (now the Capital Theatre) was built in 1873 -74 for both public and private use and contained lodge rooms, a public tavern anda concert hall. The Masonic section occupied the northern side of the building at ground floor level and included a lodge room at the rear, a library and reading room, and other affiliated rooms. Walls of the entry hall and lodge room were decorated with classical columns and panels ornamented with Masonic emblems. The upper level of the building contained a large hall with balcony at the north end and removable stage at the south end. Elaborately decorated with Masonic emblems, this hall was used for Masonic purposes as well as being available to the wider community for social events. The tavern, which became known as the Masonic Hotel, occupied the basement and the ground floor of the southern side of the building and included a sitting room, parlours, billiard room, bedrooms, kitchen, cellars and servants' rooms. It appears that two public entrances were provided for this section, one directly from street level into the basement, the other from the public entry hall. Invitation for the Installation of two Lodge Brothers. Horizontal fold printed in black ink on blue card. Embossed cover with scalloped edging. Front and back cover decorated with masonic symbols. Menu listed inside. Front cover: golden & Corinthian & Zenith Lodges / No. 7 and Mo. 52 / joint Installation / of / Bros, R. T. Trembath and L. A. Sonnenber / Masonic Hall, Bendigo / Wednesday, June 29th, 1910. bendigo masonic hall, capital theatre bendigo, milburn catering bendigo, brockley printers bendigo, making a nation exhibition, bendigo masonic lodge, city of greater bendigo community groups, city of greater bendigo events

Freemasonary or Masonry has its beginning in local guilds of stonemasons which from the end of 13th century regulated the qualification of stonemasons. Modern Freemasonry uses scriptures which include ritual practices and ethical conduct as part of its foundation and every member must profess a belief in a Supreme Being. Women are not allowed to be admitted and discussion of religion and politics is not to take place within the lodge. Freemasons meet in local Lodges which are supervised at a regional level by a Grand Lodge. The degrees of Freemasonry retain the three grades of medieval craft guilds, those of Entered Apprentice, Journeyman or fellow (now called Fellowcraft), and Master Mason. The candidate of these three degrees is progressively taught the meanings of the symbols of Freemasonry and entrusted with grips, signs, and words to signify to other members that he has been so initiated. The degrees are part allegorical morality play and part lecture. Candidates for Freemasonry will usually have met the most active members of the Lodge they are joining before being elected for initiation. (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Freemasonry) The Golden Lodge of Sandhurst was established as the first Masonic Lodge in Bendigo in 1854. Many prominent men including City Councilors were lodge members at it was a popular way for men to socialise. As the masonic movement expanded further lodges were established in Bendigo and the surrounding Boroughs and Shires. The Golden and Corinthian Lodges purchasing two blocks of land in a prominent position in View Street in 1866 with the intention of erecting a new temple and after amalgamating in 1872 appointed architects Vahland and Getzschmann to design the building. The Bendigo Masonic Hall (now the Capital Theatre) was built in 1873 -74 for both public and private use and contained lodge rooms, a public tavern anda concert hall. The Masonic section occupied the northern side of the building at ground floor level and included a lodge room at the rear, a library and reading room, and other affiliated rooms. Walls of the entry hall and lodge room were decorated with classical columns and panels ornamented with Masonic emblems. The upper level of the building contained a large hall with balcony at the north end and removable stage at the south end. Elaborately decorated with Masonic emblems, this hall was used for Masonic purposes as well as being available to the wider community for social events. The tavern, which became known as the Masonic Hotel, occupied the basement and the ground floor of the southern side of the building and included a sitting room, parlours, billiard room, bedrooms, kitchen, cellars and servants' rooms. It appears that two public entrances were provided for this section, one directly from street level into the basement, the other from the public entry hall. Invitation for the Installation of unnamed Brothers. Half fold printed in gold and red ink on cream coloured card. Embossed cover with plain edging. Front and back cover decorated with masonic symbols. Menu listed inside. Front cover: The Zenith and Golden and Corinthian Lodges ? Joint Installation / Masonic Hall, Bendigo / Wednesday, June 28th, 1905 / Bro J.O.R Milburn Caterer bendigo masonic hall, capital theatre bendigo, milburn catering bendigo, making a nation exhibition, james printer eaglehawk, bendigo masonic lodge, city of greater bendigo community groups

Freemasonary or Masonry has its beginnings in local guilds of stonemasons who from the end of 13th century regulated the qualification of stonemasons. Modern Freemasonry uses scriptures which include ritual practices and ethical conduct as part of its foundation and every member must profess a belief in a Supreme Being. Women are not allowed to be admitted and discussion of religion and politics is not to take place within the lodge. Freemasons meet in local Lodges which are supervised at a regional level by a Grand Lodge. The degrees of Freemasonry retain the three grades of medieval craft guilds, those of Entered Apprentice, Journeyman or fellow (now called Fellowcraft), and Master Mason. The candidate of these three degrees is progressively taught the meanings of the symbols of Freemasonry and entrusted with grips, signs, and words to signify to other members that he has been so initiated. The degrees are part allegorical morality play and part lecture. Candidates for Freemasonry will usually have met the most active members of the Lodge they are joining before being elected for initiation. (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Freemasonry) The Golden Lodge of Sandhurst was established as the first Masonic Lodge in Bendigo in 1854. Many prominent men including City Councilors were lodge members at it was a popular way for men to socialise. As the masonic movement expanded further lodges were established in Bendigo and the surrounding Boroughs and Shires. The Golden and Corinthian Lodges purchasing two blocks of land in a prominent position in View Street in 1866 with the intention of erecting a new temple and after amalgamating in 1872 appointed architects Vahland and Getzschmann to design the building. The Bendigo Masonic Hall (now the Capital Theatre) was built in 1873 -74 for both public and private use and contained lodge rooms, a public tavern anda concert hall. The Masonic section occupied the northern side of the building at ground floor level and included a lodge room at the rear, a library and reading room, and other affiliated rooms. Walls of the entry hall and lodge room were decorated with classical columns and panels ornamented with Masonic emblems. The upper level of the building contained a large hall with balcony at the north end and removable stage at the south end. Elaborately decorated with Masonic emblems, this hall was used for Masonic purposes as well as being available to the wider community for social events. The tavern, which became known as the Masonic Hotel, occupied the basement and the ground floor of the southern side of the building and included a sitting room, parlours, billiard room, bedrooms, kitchen, cellars and servants' rooms. It appears that two public entrances were provided for this section, one directly from street level into the basement, the other from the public entry hall. Invitation for the Installation of Brothers Henderson and Sargeant. Half fold printed in red ink on grey / mauve coloured card with plain edging. Menu listed inside on left, toasts listed on inside right. Front cover: Banquet / at the / Joint Installation / of / Brox, R. O Henderson & T. L. Sargeant / as / Worshipful Masters / of the / Golden and Corinthian & Zenith Lodges / Masonic Hall / Wednesday, 27th June 1906 bendigo masonic hall, capital theatre bendigo, milburn catering bendigo, making a nation exhibition, brockley printers bendigo, bendigo masonic lodge, city of greater bendigo community groups

Freemasonary or Masonry has its beginnings in local guilds of stonemasons who from the end of 13th century regulated the qualification of stonemasons. Modern Freemasonry uses scriptures which include ritual practices and ethical conduct as part of its foundation and every member must profess a belief in a Supreme Being. Women are not allowed to be admitted and discussion of religion and politics is not to take place within the lodge. Freemasons meet in local Lodges which are supervised at a regional level by a Grand Lodge. The degrees of Freemasonry retain the three grades of medieval craft guilds, those of Entered Apprentice, Journeyman or fellow (now called Fellowcraft), and Master Mason. The candidate of these three degrees is progressively taught the meanings of the symbols of Freemasonry and entrusted with grips, signs, and words to signify to other members that he has been so initiated. The degrees are part allegorical morality play and part lecture. Candidates for Freemasonry will usually have met the most active members of the Lodge they are joining before being elected for initiation. (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Freemasonry) The Golden Lodge of Sandhurst was established as the first Masonic Lodge in Bendigo in 1854. Many prominent men including City Councilors were lodge members at it was a popular way for men to socialise. As the masonic movement expanded further lodges were established in Bendigo and the surrounding Boroughs and Shires. The Golden and Corinthian Lodges purchasing two blocks of land in a prominent position in View Street in 1866 with the intention of erecting a new temple and after amalgamating in 1872 appointed architects Vahland and Getzschmann to design the building. The Bendigo Masonic Hall (now the Capital Theatre) was built in 1873 -74 for both public and private use and contained lodge rooms, a public tavern anda concert hall. The Masonic section occupied the northern side of the building at ground floor level and included a lodge room at the rear, a library and reading room, and other affiliated rooms. Walls of the entry hall and lodge room were decorated with classical columns and panels ornamented with Masonic emblems. The upper level of the building contained a large hall with balcony at the north end and removable stage at the south end. Elaborately decorated with Masonic emblems, this hall was used for Masonic purposes as well as being available to the wider community for social events. The tavern, which became known as the Masonic Hotel, occupied the basement and the ground floor of the southern side of the building and included a sitting room, parlours, billiard room, bedrooms, kitchen, cellars and servants' rooms. It appears that two public entrances were provided for this section, one directly from street level into the basement, the other from the public entry hall. Invitation for the Installation of Brother Lee. Half fold printed in blue ink on cream coloured card with plain edging. Menu listed inside on left, toasts listed on inside right, officers listed on back cover. Front cover: Sandhurst Lodge / No 194 / Banquet / to celebrate the / Installation / of / Brother H. Lee / in the / Masonic Temple, Bendigo / Thursday, 20th June 1907 bendigo masonic hall, capital theatre bendigo, milburn catering bendigo, making a nation exhibition, bendigo masonic lodge, city of greater bendigo events, city of greater bendigo community groups

The Bendigo Caledonian Society is a social club for Scottish descendants still active today.Event program for the Bendigo Caledonian Society. Half fold design printed in gold, white, pink and light and dark blue ink on cream card. Embossed with scalloped edge on cover. Musical program listed inside. Front cover: Bendigo Caledonian Society / Welcome / to / His Excellency the State Governor / and / Lady Gibson-Carmichael / Town Hall / December 8th, 1908 / D. Andrew / Chief / A.C. Forbes / Secretary bendigo town hall, bendigo caledonian society, sir thomas gibson carmichael, lady gibson carmichael, governor of victoria 1908, bolton brothers printers, making a nation exhibition, councillor david andrew, city of greater bendigo events, city of greater bendigo community groups

Organisations such as 'Friendly Societies' were set up to protect and care for their members and communities at a time when there was no welfare state or National Health Service. The aim was and still is, to provide help to members and communities when they need it. The friendly societies are non-profit mutual organisations owned by their members. All income is passed back to the members in the form of services and benefits. The Oddfellows are also fundraisers for local and national charities; lodges raise money for local causes, and the society as a whole raise significant amounts for charities. Invitation for Manchester Unity Independent Order of Oddfellows Banquet. Half fold printed in purple ink on cream card. Scalloped edging. Menu listed in centrefold. Toast listed on back cover.Front cover: Bendigo District M.U.I.O.O.F. / A.M.C 1910 / Banquet / in honor of the / Officers and Deputies / town Hall, Bendigo / Wednesday, 15th March, / 8 o'clock p.m. / HIS WORSHIP THE MAYOR OF THE CITY, / COUNCILLOR D. ANDREW, WILL PRESIDE making a nation exhibition, bendigo town hall, councillor david andrew, mayor andrew, city of greater bendigo events, city of greater bendigo community groups

General district street, business and services directory aimed less at the tourist market and more at the Bendigo and Eaglehawk population. Includes advertising. Index is extensive and includes services such as child care centres, cemeteries, theatres and schools.Thirty two page, printed and bound street and business directory for Bendigo, Eaglehawk and district. Grey card front cover with grey cardboard back cover. Printed in red and black ink. Includes Index for trades, streets and services such as banks, baths, sporting clubs and police stations. Majority of content is text and advertising and the only map included in the publication is printed inside the back cover.The Street Finder / for the municipalities of / Bendigo, Eaglehawk / & District. city of greater bendigo commerce, city of greater bendigo community groups, city of greater bendigo tourism, borough of eaglehawk, making a nation exhibition

Established in 1880, the Eaglehawk Football Club was one of the first teams to join the Bendigo Football League and to date the senior team has won twenty eight premierships, the most of any team in the league. The Eaglehawk colours are represented by two blues, the light blue of Oxford University and dark blue of Cambridge University which is represented on this pin in the coloured enamel. This pin issued in 1925 commemorates Eaglehawk Football Club's 1924 win which was played at Kennington Oval against Rochester. Final scores were 14.17.101 to 8.9.57. The Bendigo Football League formally known as the Sandhurst Football Association was formed in 1881 and over the decades has grown to include some of the longest established teams in Australia including Castlemaine (formed 1859 - joined 1925) and Kyenton (formed1875 - joined 1947). The local municipal councils worked with the League to provide playing fields for the competition and the Upper Reserve now known as the Queen Elizabeth Oval continues to host many League games. In 1928 at the annual dinner it was noted by the Bendigo Football League that the 'grounds were not all that could be desired, but that they were getting along well with the councils'. Mayor Batchelder responded saying that the council realised that 'the League was a major tenant and was out to do its best for them'. (1) (FN The Riverine Herald, Fri 19 Oct 1928 Page 1). The City of Greater Bendigo continues to work with the various leagues to provide playing fields for competitions as well as supporting the emerging of football and netball clubs and the introduction of women's football teams which has seen great changes to traditionally male dominated football clubs. Diamond shaped commemorative medal with circular scroll. Football sits inside inner diamond shape. front; Eaglehawk Football Cub 1925 / Premiers / 1924 verso; Stokes & Sons / Melbbendigo football league, city of greater bendigo community groups, borough of eaglehawk, making a nation exhibition, city of greater bendigo sport

Established in 1924 the White Hills Football Club joined the Bendigo District Football Association in 1924 and in that first year played in the grand final, loosing by 6 points. In 1933 the club went into recess, reforming after WWII in 1948 and again joined the BDA, wining premierships in 1950, 1952, 1957 and 1958. In 1960 the competition was renamed the Golden City FL and the premierships came in 1963, 1968, 1969, 1971, and 1980. In 1981 the Golden City FL became the second division of the Bendigo Football League and White Hills competed in the lower division. White Hills opted to transfer to the Heathcote District Football League in the early 1980's and in its early years had one of its most successful periods, winning a premiership in 1988. (Wikipedia https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/White_Hills_Football_Club). The City of Greater Bendigo continues to work with the various football and netball clubs and leagues in providing playing fields for competitions as well as supporting the introduction of women's football teams through improved infrastructure. front; 1955 / White Hills / Football Club verso; Swann & Hudson / Frankstonbendigo football league, city of greater bendigo community groups, heathcote district football league, city of greater bendigo sport, making a nation exhibition

Premier Town Awards are awarded by the Victorian State Government to regional communities that best protect and enhance their environment through innovative initiatives. The award recognizes success in litter prevention, waste management and environmental projects and is designed to encourage tourism. In 1982 - 1985 Bendigo was named Victoria's Premier Town and an official dinner was held at the Town Hall, Bendigo on October 5, 1985.Two large gold coloured medals manufactured to promote the awarding of 'Premier Town' to Bendigo from 1982 - 1985. 0349a,b; Front face is has raised image of poppet head and text, reverse is blank. Front face; Premier Town Advancement Award / Bendigo / Premier Town / Victoria 1982 - 1985city of bendigo, city of bendigo commerce, city of greater bendigo awards, city of greater bendigo community groups, city of greater bendigo tourism, city of bendigo premier town 1982-85

This rug was a gift and gesture of friendship from the local Muslim community to the City of Greater Bendigo. It was presented to Mayor, Cr Rod Fyffe on behalf of the people of Bendigo at a 2016 'Thank You Bendigo' dinner. In 2014 approval for a planning application from the Bendigo Islamic Association to build a community centre and mosque in East Bendigo prompted a series of public protests that captured widespread media attention. During this tumultuous period the Council identified the need for a community-wide plan to promote diversity and help address potentially divisive cultural issues. These events led to the COGB becoming the first local government area (LGA) formally accredited under Australia’s Welcoming Cities Standard. Community leaders emerged who wanted to show that the anti-mosque protesters did not reflect the views of the majority of Bendigo residents. The community lead ‘Believe in Bendigo’ movement gained momentum, and the Council and other local organisations joined forces to present a unified message that Bendigo residents do not tolerate racism. Muslims have made Central Victoria their home since the Goldrush, contributing to the community and the economy for the past 120 years. Traditional Islamic rugs, especially their patterns and motifs are intrinsically linked with the design of the Bendigo Mosque and Bendigo Islamic Community Centre providing important points of reference for the architects of the project. Typically, mosques are linked with specific cultural groups but not in the case of Bendigo where the Muslim community is made up of multi-ethnic groups. This meant the building's design was not fixed to a specific style or cultural iconography but instead needed to encompass many. The small local Muslim community selected a specific Australian architect because of their interest and knowledge of Islamic design and iconography gained through family collection of Islamic textiles. In thinking about the design of the mosque and community centre the architects wanted to acknowledge the role of Afghans in Australian history, especially tribal Afghans who helped build connections across the interior of Australia between First Nations communities, European settlers and Central Asian migrants. The gift of this Turkmen rugto the Bendigo community thus symbolises collaborative partnerships across faith and cultural groups based on friendship and mutual benefit. A Turkman rug was specifically chosen as it is the pinnacle of nomadic arts of the Islamic world. It was also important to the architects and the local Muslim community that the gift was a female artistic product as it was mainly a female Muslim architecture team that designed the mosque in Bendigo and there was a desire to select something that celebrated female artistry. This hand-woven rug is an engsi, made for a woman in preparation for marriage. Design work and weaving is a shared experience, between many generations of women and each rug hold the personal story of the woman it is made for and her family and thus holds deep symbolic meaning. There are often songs and poetry that are recited as the rug is made – helping the makers to memorisze the mathematical structure of the design. An engsi is put on the doorway to a yurt as part of a wedding ceremony. During the ceremony the groom turns the engsii upside down to check the quality of the rug makers weaving skills. The nomadic lifestyle of Yomut Turkman tribes determines the size of the rug as the loom can’t be carried. Its size is also restricted by the dimensions of the doorway of the yurt. This rug is dated as c 1880 because of the types of patterns used, the use of natural dyes (synthetic dyes were introduced to the area in 1890s) and with the smoother weaving on the back indicating the quality of craftsmanship dating to this time period. The Yomut engsi rug was made in Turkmenistan c1880 by Yomut Turkmen Tribes people and is designed to fit over the doorway of a yurt during a wedding ceremony. The main field motif is related to Turkoman jewelery design. The women and girls of the tribe spin the wool and design and weave the rugs. The men shear the sheep, dye the wool and clip the rug after it has been woven. The word “Turkoman” is thought to have been derived from Turk-iman, meaning the first nomadic Turkic tribes that began to follow Islam. Dyes used are natural including orange from madder root. bendigo mosque, bendigo islamic association, city of greater bendigo community partnerships, city of greater bendigo community groups

Program for the unveiling of memorial plaque at the location of the former Long Gully Fire Station on the 20th August 2000 at Creeth St Long Gully, rear of St Mathews Anglical Church. List of Dignitaries include Parliamentarians: Hon Andre' Haermeyer MP, Hon Bob Cameron MP and Ron Best MLC. Other Dignitaries: Cr Laurie Whelan, Cr Willi Carney and CFA Bill Davies and Bruce Furnell. Special Guests included Representatives of the Bendigo Fire Brigade, Long Gully Community House, Bendigo and District Cornish Association, Central Victorian Fire Preservation Society and St Mathews Church. Briefing notes include the Plaque, Long Gully and a brief history of the Long Gully Fire Brigade. Also included is a location map of the Long Gully Area.bendigo, history, long gully history group, the long gully history group - long gully community house, the hon andre' haermeyer mp, long gully fire station, st mathews anglical church, george a ellis, long gully history group, bruce furnell, cr laurie whelan, greater city of bendigo, hon bob cameron mp, hon ron best mlc, cr willi carney, bill davies, country fire authority, bendigo and district cornish association, central victorian fire preservation society, mechanics institute, post and telegraph office, cfbb chief officer hennah

Letter to Barry Secombe, Manager Community Services, from George Ellis, for the Proposed: Hercules & Energetic Mine Project. Letter dated 21 June 2005 and printed on a brown Long Gully Neighbourhood Centre Inc letterhead .Mentioned in the letter, The History Group wish to install a plaque on the Linear Park walking track near Creeth Street Long Gully to acknowledge the site (not the Shaft) of the Hercules and Energetic Mine formally the Energetic Mine. It is also mentioned that Sir John Quick once worked at this mine before he went to University. There is a suggestion of where the plaque could be located.bendigo, history, long gully history group, the long gully history group - proposed: hercules & energetic mine project, long gully neighbourhood centre inc, barry secombe, city of greater bendigo, the long gully history group, energetic mine, sir john quick, bendigo evening news, prof geoffrey blainey, melbourne herald january 2nd 1986, george ellis

Newspaper cutting titled New Playground for Long Gully. Eaglehawk Times Nov 99 written at the top of the article. The playground was a community project at the New chum Reserve in the Sparrowhawk, Estate. Mentioned is the organisers, who gave funds for the works and the young people who worked on it. Also mentioned is some early problems they had.bendigo, history, long gully history group, the long gully history group - new playground for long gully, eaglehawk times nov 99, eaglehawk secondary college, new chum reserve, long gully community house, central victorian group training (cvgt), city of greater bendigo, the department of human services, the rotary club of bendigo/sandhurst, lt lukes, russell roberts

Application form to Local History Grants Program Round 3. Four pages with Public Record Office Victoria and logo in the top left corner and Victoria the Place To Be and logo in the top right corner. Written at the top of the page is ? Draft. Application is for a Poppet Head to acknowledge the Men and their families who worked in the underground mining industry and the achievement that Underground Mining made to make the City of Greater Bendigo what it is today. Also mentioned is estimated cost of of the project.bendigo, history, long gully history group, the long gully history group - local history grants program round 3, public record office victoria, long gully community house inc, long gully history group, mr george ellis, city of greater bendigo, long gully linear park, city of greater bendigo recreation department, city of greater bendigo community environmental education department, long gully community newsletter, eaglehawk times, bendigo advertiser, bendigo tourist bureau, shared action project (st lukes)

Copy of a newspaper article titled Gully celebrates. The community staged its second annual Long Gully Live concert and was given a $20,00o cheque to help it building family park. Member for the North Western Province, Ron Best, presented the cheque to the City of Greater Bendigo at the Long Gully Live concert. He said the State Government funding would assist the redevelopment of the Chum Street Reserve Park in Long Gully. Entertainment included Golden City Pipe band, Zenyth, Anne Conway, Voice Pop Foibles, Steve Roscoe and Anonymous Bosch. Article includes a photo of two guitarists.bendigo, history, long gully history group, the long gully history group - gully celebrates, long gully live concert, ron best, city of greater bendigo, chum street reserve, golden city pipe band, zenyth, anne conway, voice pop foibles, steve roscoe, jo cowling, anonymous bosch

Copy of a newspaper article titled Work begins on showpiece. A new playground and recreation area will be built at the Chum Reserve. It is still seeking support from the Bendigo community and more funds. Funding is discussed. A highlight of the finished area will have a mosaic of tiles created by the children of Bendigo Violet Street Primary School and Comet Hill Primary School. These would be permanently laid into the paths. July 14th written at the top of the page. Page has a sketch of the tree house and a photo of David Boyce and Pamela Power at Chum Reserve.bendigo, history, long gully history group, the long gully history group - work begins on showpiece, chum reserve, north western province mlc ron best, long gully community house, shared action project, city of greater bendigo, government's office of housing, rotary club of bendigo sandhurst, paul kirkpatrick, international rotary foundation, children's opportunity grants, bendigo violet street primary school, comet hill primary school, carol rasmussen, david boyce, pamela power

Copy of a plan of the Chum Reserve, Long Gully, dated September 1998. The plan between Derwent Drive and Dyason Court show play area, trees, swings, fire pit, tree house and grassy area. There is also a plan of the tree house - South East Elevation. Drawn by Mary Jeavons Landscape Architects.bendigo, history, long gully history group, the long gully history group - chum reserve long gully, shared action long gully community house, city of greater bendigo, mary jeavons landscape architects

Letter dated 8 October, 2001 from Barry Secombe, Director Community Services to Mr George Ellis, Long Gully History Group acknowledging his application for funding under Council's Community Grants Program. It is anticipated that Council will consider the allocation of grants at its meeting to be held 3 December 2001 and will write again to advise if the application was successful.bendigo, history, long gully history group, the long gully history group - letter to mr george ellis, city of greater bendigo, long gully history group, barry secombe

The origin of Moomba dates back to 1951, when Melbourne celebrated fifty years of Federation with a parade and the staging of the theatre production 'An Aboriginal Moomba: Out of the Dark'. The following year, the final Labour Day procession was held in Melbourne after running for almost a century. A parade through the streets of central Melbourne have been a key part of the Moomba festival since its beginning. The floats have an annual theme, usually an elaboration on 'Let's get together and have fun', the avowed mission and vision statement of Moomba. In the beginning the floats usually promoted a Commercial or Government organisation, but in later years, as business became more reluctant to spend money on elaborate floats, they tended to represent sporting clubs, ethnic groups and other community organisations (source Melbourne Museum).Mounted colour photograph with cover depicting the COGB Moomba Float. Taken on corner of Flinders and Swanston Streets, Melbourne. Bendigo Easter Fair Guest Float.moomba, swanston street, labour day, city of greater bendigo tourism, city of greater bendigo events

The first Bendigo Easter Fair was held on April 10th and 11th 1871 and remains one of Australia’s longest running annual community events taking place over the Easter long weekend. The Bendigo Easter Fair features events throughout the City of Greater Bendigo and celebrations culminate in a parade through the streets on Easter Sunday. The parade features a variety of commercial and community groups. In 1892, large processional dragons became an integral part of the annual parade. The three principal golden dragons are Loong (1892–1970), Sun Loong (1970–2019) and Dai Gum Loong (2019–present), housed at the Golden Dragon Museum in Bendigo. The Bendigo Easter Fair Society is custodian of the Bendigo Easter Fair and continues to support the City of Greater Bendigo’s largest festival. Series of 16 colour 35mm Ektachrome slide transparency of parade floats and community groups as they pass along Mitchel Street. Images have been taken from a second story vantage point, diagonally opposite the Terminus Hotel which stood at 126 Mitchell Street Bendigo. Floats include S.E.C., Post Master Generals Office, Greyhound Racing, YMCA, the wool industry and Bendigo ALP Women's Association. sandner collection, mayor sandner, city of greater bendigo easter fair, city of greater bendigo tourism, city of greater bendigo events

Ernest Morton Vains (1881 - 1951) was a local business man and Bendigo councillor who arrived in Bendigo in 1897 aged 16 from Kerang. In 1916 he founded the firm E M Vains and Co with his brother Sidney and they operated from Hargreaves Street in Bendigo with branches in Elmore, Mitiamo, Dingee, Knowsley, Heathcote and Prairie. E. M. Vains was a member of the City Council from 1922 - 1926 and was elected Mayor on August 29th, 1924. He played a prominent role in many of the City's community and industry groups and was a member of the Rotary Club which was founded in 1925 and a member of the Corona Lodge of Freemasons. Single page invoice from E.M. Vains and Co Auctioneers, Stock and Station Agents Bendigo. Letterhead features the unique R M Vains & Co logo with a bulls head, printed in royal blue ink.city of bendigo mayor, mayor vains, city of greater bendigo commerce, making a nation exhibition, mayoress vains, freemason

When the Commonwealth Post and Telegraph Act was passed in June 1902, and a national Postmaster General's Department (the PMG) was established the responsibility the nation's mail and telephone services fell on local Post Offices. The Bendigo Post Office was designed by Public Works architect George W Watson and constructed between 1883 and 1887. The two story brick structure with basement has unpainted rendered facades and a 43m high clock tower complete with 6 bell carillon. The facades are elaborately decorated with Corinthian pilasters, balustrading, lions' heads and the state mansard roof with cast iron ridging and finials. (VHR #4739). Situated on Pall Mall it has always been called the Bendigo Post Office even though it was not until 1891 that the name Bendigo was given to the town. The Bendigo Post Office housed much more than just postal services and the building contained many early government departments and services needed for a growing district. The building celebrated its centenary on the 30th September 1987 to much fan fare with Ted Rankins, the then Postal Manager planning many of the week long events including tours of the post office, a grand parade with cake and staff in period costume, a ball at the Shamrock and a barbeque in Rosalind Park. The Post Office ceased providing postal services in 1997 after the privitisation Australia Post and Telstra but continues to play a central role for the community, providing important services to visitors and locals alike. Currently it is occupied by Bendigo Tourism and includes two exhibition spaces including the Living Arts Space and Djaa Djuwima a dedicated and permanent First Nations Gallery. Activities at the Post Office are supported by City of Greater Bendigo staff and a dedicated group of volunteers. These items are part of the postal collection donated by the Rankins family in memory of the last postal manager at the Bendigo Post Office, Ted Rankins. 0364.1: Single sided printed 'Order of Proceedings' flyer; Outlines the running of events for the celebrations on Wednesday 30 September, 1987 at the Post Office with the centenary logo centre top in crimson ink. 0364.2: Single sided, four-colour printed, DL size invitation for celebrations marking the centenary of the Post Office on Wednesday 30 September, 1987. 0364.3,.4,.5,.6,.7: Printed cake bag with centenary logo and image of Bendigo Post Office printed on front in crimson ink. 0364.8,.9,.10,.11: Square note paper with centenary logo and border printed in crimson ink. 0364.12 Envelope: Australia Post envelope with Bendigo 100th anniversary images. Date stamped and addressed to Mr Edmondston Postmaster, Elmore. bendigo post office, bendigo tourism, city of greater bendigo tourism, post office collection, ted rankins collection, city of greater bendigo volunteers

The first Bendigo Easter Fair was held on 10th and 11th April, 1871 and remains one of Australia’s longest running annual community events taking place over the Easter long weekend. Its purpose was to raise funds in aid of two local charities; The Bendigo Hospital, and The Bendigo Benevolent Asylum. The fair features events throughout the City with celebrations culminating in a parade on Easter Sunday. The parade features a variety of commercial and community groups including a large processional dragon which has been an integral part of the annual parade since 1892. The three principal golden dragons featured over the past 130 years are Loong (1892–1970), Sun Loong (1970–2019) and Dai Gum Loong (2019–present) which are housed at the Golden Dragon Museum in Bendigo. Fundraising for charities remains a large part of this event and this raffle is an example of the types of prizes you could expect to win in 1915 with 1st prize being a Horse, Gig and Harness.Printed ticket on card. Double sided. Includes advertising for local businesses. Front covered in text describing the twenty one prizes to be won. Reverse; advertisement for Cohn Bros Beer.bendigo easter fair, bendigo hospital