Following the death of King George VI, the Queen's trip to Australia and New Zealand was postponed until 1954. This book is a photographic story of their travels around Australia, New Zealand and Pacific Islands.A pictorial record of the first visit to Australia by Queen Elizabeth II and the Duke of Edinburgh in 1954Hard cover, Illus. (some colour). Cover illustration of Australian flag with white writing over.house of windsor, duke of edinburgh, royal tour of australia 1954, queen elizabeth ii

non-fictionqueen elizabeth 2, house of windsor, duke of edinburgh, royal tour australia 1952,

non-fictionA small booklet issued to Australian schoolchildren as a souvenir of the Royal Visit 1954.royal visit, elizabeth ii, souvenir booklet, itinerary

front cover green with stylised Kangaroo and Emu on ribbon featuring the words 'The Royal Visit' with southern cross on rear cover.non-fictionqueen elizabeth ii, duke of edinburgh, australia, royal visit

A badly damaged thick black hardcover Holy Bible with an embossed insignia on the front cover as well as lined patterns on the front and back covers. The front has stamped inside a circular insignia the words, 'British and Foreign Bible Society, Two Shillings and Sixpence' embossed in the middle. The end paper at the front has come away from the spine, there are marks and foxing inside. The text is clear. There is no spine and many pages are loose. Throughout the bible are several added pieces of handwritten notes on paper, small leaflets a newspaper article about the death of King George VI. There is no pagination. Included are two ribbon bookmarks, one yellow with 'Think of Me. 1870.' embroidered on perforated paper in blue cross stitch. The other blue one has 'Love' embroidered on perforated paper in coloured thread. A third green ribbon bookmark has 'Who ever absent dear' embroidered in brown thread on perforated paper. non-fictionThe Holy Bible containing the Old and New testaments: translated out of the original tongues and with the former translations diligently compared and revised, By His Majesty's Special Command. Appointed to be read in churches. holy bible, religion, christianity, gibson collection

Produced in preparation for the visit of the Duchess and Duke of Edinburgh. King George VI and Queen Elizabeth were scheduled to tour Australia along with Princess Margaret. Their tour was cancelled November 1951 due to the King's health and replaced with scheduled tour for the Duchess and Duke of Edinburgh, scheduled for Early 1952. The card was produced to commemorate the visit, but the tour was cancelled after the death of King George VI in February of 1952. Folded A5 card commemorating the Duchess and Duke of Edinburgh's visit to Australia in 1952. Printed in colour, the card contains the Coat of arms of the United Kingdom on the front cover, images of King George VI and Queen Elizabeth on their coronation day in 1937, and a family portrait of then Princess Elizabeth, Prince Philip, Prince Charles and Princess Ann (date unknown). On the back cover are the hand drawn coat of arms of Australia, and that of each of the states and territories. king geroge vi, australia, royal visit, queen elizabeth ii, duke of edinburgh, royal tour

This button was found adjacent to the old lock-up in the backyard of present-day Fernlea Op-Shop, formerly the site of the Emerald Police Station. It was made by button manufacturer K. G. Luke, who was one of Australia's largest manufacturers of silverware, including buttons. This button was likely made sometime in between the death of King George VI in February 1952 and the changing of the company's name in May 1953, due to the presence of the Queen's crown on the front and the manufacturing details on the back.This button is significant as it demonstrates the presence of the Victorian Police Force in Emerald in the mid-20th CenturyA circular silver metal plated button with a raised Queen's crown in the centre. On the back there are four holes for sewing into.Front: 'POLICE FORCE / VICTORIA' Back: 'K. G. LUKE PTY LTD / MELB'emerald, 20th century, 1950s, police

The card relates to the Official Centenary Ball held in the Warrnambool Town Hall in March 1947 to celebrate the city's Centenary in 1947. Warrnambool was founded as a port settlement to service the farming interests in the area, with the first land sales held in Melbourne in July 1847. The leaflet is a programme of the Civic Memorial Service held in the Botanic Gardens in Warrnambool in February1952 on the occasion of the death of King George VI of England. Both items came from memorabilia held by the Bamford family of 8 Monash Avenue Warrnambool and it is presumed that one or more members of that family attended the events.These items are of social significance as mementos of events in Warrnambool in the mid 20th century..1 A white card with black printing and a logo .2 A sheet of white paper folded to make four pages with black printing and a photograph of King George VI of Englandwarrnambool memorabilia, warrnambool centenary, warrnambool centenary 1947, official centenary ball.

This special edition was issued as a souvenir of the coronation of Queen Elizabeth 11. The coronation of Queen Elizabeth II as monarch of the United Kingdom, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, the Union of South Africa, Pakistan, and Ceylon took place on 2 June 1953. Elizabeth ascended the throne at the age of 25, upon the death of her father, King George VI, on 6 February 1952.On the 2nd June 1953, the coronation of Queen Elizabeth II took place and the commonwealth countries, including Australia joined in the celebration. Saving an item dedicated to the royal family is typical of the general feeling of respect and admiration felt by the rural communities towards the British Royal Family, especially towards Queen Elizabeth II.A 64 pp Daily Mail souvenir edition titled, The coronation. It is b/w and cost one shilling. It traces the accession of Queen Elizabeth 11 to the coronation and afterwards.coronation royal-family elizabeth-11

This special edition was issued as a souvenir of the coronation of Queen Elizabeth 11. The coronation of Queen Elizabeth II as monarch of the United Kingdom, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, the Union of South Africa, Pakistan, and Ceylon took place on 2 June 1953. Elizabeth ascended the throne at the age of 25, upon the death of her father, King George VI, on 6 February 1952. The Evening News was an evening newspaper published in London from 1881 to 1980 and was very popular. The paper was founded by Coleridge Kennard and Harry Marks with the first issue appearing on July 26, 1881. On the 2nd June 1953, the coronation of Queen Elizabeth II took place and the commonwealth countries, including Australia joined in the celebration. Saving an item dedicated to the royal family is typical of the general feeling of respect and admiration felt by the rural communities towards the British Royal Family, especially towards Queen Elizabeth II.A newspaper of 8 pp, The Evening News Souvenir Edition of the coronation of Queen Elizabeth 11. It contains b/w photographs of the coronation as well as advertisements, stories, comic strips and puzzles.royal-family elizabeth-coronation newspaper evening-news

The Daily Telegraph is a broadsheet newspaper published in London by Telegraph Media Group and distributed across the United Kingdom and internationally. It was founded by Arthur B. Sleigh in 1855 as The Daily Telegraph and Courier. The coronation of Queen Elizabeth II as monarch of the United Kingdom, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, the Union of South Africa, Pakistan, and Ceylon took place on 2 June 1953. Elizabeth ascended the throne at the age of 25, upon the death of her father, King George VI, on 6 February 1952, and was proclaimed queen by her various privy and executive councils shortly afterwards. The ceremony took place at Westminster Abbey. Celebrations took place and a commemorative medal was issued throughout the Commonwealth. Saving an item dedicated to the royal family is typical of the general feeling of respect and admiration felt by the rural communities towards the British Royal Family, especially towards Queen Elizabeth II.A supplement from the Daily Telegraph, June 2 1953, titled Coronation Day Supplement. On the front cover is a b/w picture of Westminster Abbey.newspaper-supplement-daily-telegraph coronation royal-family elizabeth-11

Queen Elizabeth II ascended the throne, at the age of 25, on the death of her father King George VI on the 6th February 1952. Elizabeth was crowned as the Queen of the United Kingdom and the other Commonwealth realms on June 2nd 1953 at Westminster Abbey. Preparations for the coronation took over a year, it was the first British coronation to be fully televised when cameras were allowed inside the Abbey for the first time and the event was estimated to have cost £1.57 million. The British Pottery Manufacturers Federation was founded in 1919 and continued to trade until early 1995 when the company was dissolved as a result of its activities becoming fully incorporated within the British Ceramic Confederation. The design for this mug was approved by The British Pottery Manufacturers Federation and then circulated to approved Potters. This item is significant because it records an important event in the British Royal Family, a vital part of the hereditary of many Wodonga residents. Queen Elizabeth became the official head of the Government of Australia at that time.Cream handled China mug with coloured transfer. The image includes a central oval image of a golden profile of the queen (without a crown) against a light blue background. It is surrounded by a dark blue band with gold edging. To the left is the Royal Standard and to the right is the Union Jack and English roses below. Above the central image is the royal crown and above this wording. At Top CORONATION JUNE 2nd 1953 The Latin wording HONI SOIT QUI MAL Y PENSE, contained in the dark blue oval band is the motto of the British chivalric Order of the Garter which means "shamed be whoever thinks ill of it" Beneath the image - H.M QUEEN ELIZABETH II The base of the mug shows a makers mark of the DESIGN mark.coronation of queen elizabeth ii, british royal family

This program was produced by the Snowy River Mail for a community singalong held in Orbost on Tuesday June 2 1953 to celebrate the coronation of Queen Elizabeth 11. In June 1953 , Elizabeth II was crowned Queen of the United Kingdom, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, South Africa, Ceylon (now Sri Lanka), and Pakistan, and became the Head of the Commonwealth. The coronation of Queen Elizabeth II as monarch took place on 2 June 1953. Elizabeth ascended the throne at the age of 25, upon the death of her father, King George VI, on 6 February 1952, and was proclaimed queen by her various privy and executive councils shortly afterwards. The coronation took place more than a year later because of the tradition that holding such a festival is inappropriate during the period of mourning that follows the death of a monarch. This community event was typical of the general feeling of respect and admiration felt by the rural communities towards the British Royal Family. This item reflects the significance of monarchy for Australia and the constitutional history of Australia.The item reflects the interest in the royal family to Australians at this time as well as the general feeling of respect and admiration felt by the rural communities towards the British Royal Family.A white paper program with the words of songs printed in black. There is a rust mark from a metal staple in the top left corner. It is titled "Your Coronation Community Songs".queen-elizabeth-11 royalty community-event-orbost souvenir-program

Queen Elizabeth II ascended the throne, at the age of 25, on the death of her father King George VI on the 6th February 1952. Elizabeth was crowned as the Queen of the United Kingdom and the other Commonwealth realms on June 2nd 1953 at Westminster Abbey. Her Silver Jubilee was celebrated with large-scale parties and parades throughout the United Kingdom and the Commonwealth throughout 1977, culminating in June with the official "Jubilee Days", held to coincide with the Queen's Official Birthday. In addition Queen Elizabeth and Prince Philip embarked on a tour of Commonwealth nations including Australia. In March 1977, a Silver Jubilee Parade was held in front of Parliament House, Canberra. The Royal Australian Mint released a commemorative Silver Jubilee 50c coin, which featured twenty-five representations of St Edward's Crown. Two commemoratives stamps were released by Australia Post to celebrate the Jubilee. Australian artist Paul Fitzgerald was commissioned to complete the only official portrait of the Queen during the Silver Jubilee year. The Silver Jubilee celebrations culminated in December 1977 with 35,000 serving personnel taking part in parades across Australia.This item is significant because it records an important event in the British Royal Family, a vital part of the hereditary of many Wodonga residents. This item is a vintage ceramic commemorative mug produced to celebrate the 1977 Silver Jubilee of Queen Elizabeth II. It features a portrait of the Queen surrounded by royal iconography, including the crown, crests, and the text "To Commemorate The Silver Jubilee of Queen Elizabeth II". The reverse bears a decorative transfer. The centre features the British Royal Crown. Surrounding the crown are floral emblems representing the United Kingdom: the Tudor Rose (England), the Thistle (Scotland), and Shamrock (Ireland). TO COMMEMORATE THE SILVER JUBILLEE OF QUEEN ELIZABETH II 1952 1977queen elizabeth ii, royal memorabilia

A keepsake badge which relates to the tumultuous period of the English royal family with the death of George V when his son Edward V111 abdicated from the throne due to his involvement with divorcee Wallis Simpson. His brother Albert was crowned as King George VI on May 12 1937. This badge is of interest as the dates are a mere two weeks before the abdication. The Christ Church fetes and flower shows have been a part of Christ Church social and fundraising agenda since the 1890’s, with the ladies’ guild playing a large part in their organization and operation. This object has significance as it commemorates a long running and popular event on the social and religious calendar for the parishioners and people of Warrnambool. It also is linked to an event of world- wide interest.Small white badge with red writing and symbol of crown in the centre. Pin at the back.1936 Coronation Fair Christ Church Warrnambool Nov 25 & 26.christ church fete 1936, coronation fete warrnambool

The Sun News-Pictorial, also known as The Sun, was a morning daily tabloid newspaper in Melbourne, Australia, established in 1922 and closed in 1990. It was part of The Herald and Weekly Times stable of Melbourne newspapers. For more than fifty years it was the Australian newspaper with the largest circulation George VI (Albert Frederick Arthur George; 14 December 1895 – 6 February 1952) was King of the United Kingdom and the Dominions of the British Commonwealth from 11 December 1936 until his death.Newspapers reflect contemporary society. Saving an item dedicated to the royal family is typical of the general feeling of respect and admiration felt by the rural communities towards the British Royal Family.A newspaper - middle pages missing, containing articles relating to the death of King George V1. It is dated Saturday February 1952..newspaper-sun-news-pictorial media-print george-v1 royal-family

The Daily Mirror is a British national daily tabloid newspaper founded in 1903 by Alfred Harmsworth. George VI (Albert Frederick Arthur George; 14 December 1895 – 6 February 1952) was King of the United Kingdom and the Dominions of the British Commonwealth from 11 December 1936 until his deathNewspapers reflect contemporary society. Saving an item dedicated to the royal family is typical of the general feeling of respect and admiration felt by the rural communities towards the British Royal Family.Cover of a Daily Mirror newspaper dated February 8 1952. At the top of the page is the headline, "THIS IS A VERY TRAGIC HOMECOMING" above a photograph of the Princess Elizabeth.The article relates to the death of her father, King George V1,newspaper-daily-mirror media-print george-v1 royal-family

George VI (Albert Frederick Arthur George; 14 December 1895 – 6 February 1952) was King of the United Kingdom and the Dominions of the British Commonwealth from 11 December 1936 until his death on 6 February 1952. He was also the last Emperor of India from 1936 until the British Raj was dissolved in August 1947, and the first head of the Commonwealth following the London Declaration of 1949, He married Lady Elizabeth Bowes-Lyon in 1923, and they had two daughters, Elizabeth and Margaret. KEELE STREET POTTERY (K.S.P) CO. LTD 1915–1958 Earthenware manufacturer at Keele St, Tunstall (to c.1958) and then at Meir Airport, Longton, as part of the Staffordshire Potteries Group.Coronation of King George VI and Queen Elizabeth c.1937 Commemorative Ceramic Mug. Individual Photo of King George and Queen Elizabeth surrounded by yellow wreath. 2 Flags either side. Crown in center of photos and G and E either side of Crown. Gold embossing on lip of mug. Writing at bottom of transfer is missing.KSP C England on basecoronation 1936, king george vi

From the Jessie Partington Scholes collection. Jessie was an amateur singer from age 12 to her death and a member of the pioneering Partington family of Greensborough. The item is her admission ticket as a choir member for the memorial service for the late King George Vi, held at Victoria's Parliament House on 17th Feb 1952. The item is a limited edition as it was only distributed to choir members. It is in good condition and has reliable provenance through her niece, Faye Partington Fort. This item is significant as part of the Jessie Partington Scholes Angus (1902-1989) collection. The Partington family are Greensborough pioneers.Printed on buff card. Edged with black. Purple print.jessie may partington, jessie angus, jessie scholes, partington family, king george vi memorial service, choirs

The Registration Act 1836 established the General Register Office and a new system of national registration of births, marriages and deaths to take effect from 1837. There was a need to set up a system to record births, to aid with the planning of services and to record deaths to enable further study on the causes of mortality. The accurate recording of births and deaths was to be a vital tool in improving population health and would later enable systematic interventions such as vaccination, as well as aiding research and data analysis. ('1836 Registration Act')Round silver medallion with presentation case. Front of medal features portraits of King George VI and Queen Elizabeth in profile. Text encircling the portraits reads 'BIRTHS & DEATHS REGISTRATION & MARRIAGES ACTS". Back of medal carries a lit torch design at centre, encircled by the text "BIRTH . MARRIAGE . DEATH". Presentation case is a square, green, leather box with cream satin and beige velvet lining. There is a central depression within the case in which the medallion sits. Text printed on upper surface of box lid reads "B.D. and M./CENTENARY/1837-1937". Royal Mint insignia stamped in gold inside lid.numismatics

Medal belonged to Joan Grace Gibson (Mitchell) Service numbers: VFX53656 VX53656 VX38752. The War Medal 1939–45 was awarded for 28 days full-time service in the armed forces between 3 September 1939 and 2 September 1945. Operational and non-operational service may be counted if it was 28 days or more in duration. In the merchant navy, there was a requirement that the 28 days should have been served at sea. A member qualifies for the award where service was brought to an end by death, wounds or other disabilities due to service or by cessation of hostilities on 2 September 1945.The medal is of high significance and should be kept in the collection.Made from cupro-nickel, the medal itself is cool-to-the-touch. The front has a central and textured design of the crowned effigy of King George VI, facing left and signed 'PM', the initials of designer Percy Metcalfe, below the truncated neck of the effigy. Around the perimeter is the legend 'GEORGIVS VI D:G:BR:OMN:REX ET INDIAE IMP:' The reverse has a lion standing on a double-headed dragon. The top of the reverse shows the dates 1939 and 1945. The ribbon colours of red, white and blue represent the colours of the Union Flag. The ribbon is tactile, feeling ribbed under finger. The edge is engraved with the service number, initials and name of the recipient.'VFX53656 J. G. GIBSON' [engraved around lower part of the medal edge]world war 2, world war ii, world war two, joan grace gibson, war medal 1939-45, wwii, ww2

The pupils of Falconer Street Central School No.3918 in North Fitzroy rehearse with conductress Miss Ida Park for their performance at the Temperance Hall, Russell Street Melbourne with proceeds going to the Lord Mayor’s Fund. The house on the right of the photograph is Jubilee House, 126 Michael Street North Fitzroy and is extant. Photographer notations on slide: Choir At Fitzroy State School 1933 B5 While this photograph appears not to have been published, a photograph taken from a different angle of the same event was published in The Age 21 July 1933. SCHOOL CHILDREN SING IN THE OPEN AIR. “A choir of children at North Fitzroy practise their songs for a Pantomime, to be given in the Temperance Hall for the Lord Mayor's Fund on Wednesday next. On the extreme left is the conductress of the Choir (Miss Ida Park).” Reference: http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article204368572 Research by project volunteer, Fiona Collyer: Children of The Falconer Street Central School Choral Society, trained by conductress Miss Ida Park, along with dance and gymnastics pupils of Misses Dorothy Gibb and Inez Ellis, performed in the “Cinderella” pantomime at the Temperance Hall in Russell Street, Melbourne on 26 July, 1933. The proceeds went to the Lord Mayor’s Fund. Conductress Miss Ida Park (1904- 1952) lived in the North Fitzroy and Clifton Hill area all her life. She was immersed in the music world of Melbourne and was a member of the Musical Society of Victoria. Ida graduated from Melbourne University Conservatorium with a Bachelor of Music degree in 1929 before departing for London where she studied piano and organ at the Royal Academy of Music. Ida returned to Melbourne in 1931, and billed as “The Gifted Young Australian Pianist”, held pianoforte recitals of classical music at Assembly Hall, Collins Street. She also played the organ for services at St Paul’s Independent Church in Delbridge Street, North Fitzroy and later St Luke’s, North Fitzroy. Ida conducted the children of the Falconer Street Central School Choral Society as they competed in the State School Choral Championships and the 85 children of the Fitzroy City Centenary Choir who sang at Melbourne’s Centenary celebrations of 1934/35. In 1945, Ida married Charles Hazeldine, a tenor and returned digger who had served in two world wars. The pair performed together in many concerts over the years. Tragically, both Ida and Charles were badly injured when struck by a car while crossing Queens Parade Clifton Hill in June 1952, with Ida dying from head injuries at St Vincent’s Hospital soon after. She was 48 years old. Charles wrote on Ida’s death notice - “Called home.” The choir were pupils of Falconer Street Central School No. 3918 in North Fitzroy which was built in 1915 to provide upper primary education for grades 5 to 8 for the area. In 1957 it became Fitzroy High School. In 1992, the Kennett Government swept to power, embarking on a program of fiscal austerity and privatisation of government services. 390 government schools were closed, with the land proposed to be sold to developers. 7000 teachers were sacked: 10% of Victoria’s public school teachers. Auxiliary school staff also lost their jobs. Amongst the first to close was Fitzroy High School. Fearful that the land would be sold, hundreds of students, parents, teachers and local residents occupied the building around-the-clock in four hour shifts and overnight for 14 months, sleeping on gym mats in the principal’s office and administrators’ wing. The blockade was lifted when a arrangement was reached to allow Kangan Batman TAFE to use the school from 1993 until 1998. With the election of the Bracks Government in 1999, and construction of new buildings, Fitzroy High School was reopened in 2004 after a 12 year battle. Temperance Hall, at 172 Russell Street, where the children performed “Cinderella”, was built in 1872 by the Melbourne Total Abstinence Society as a venue for lectures, meetings and alcohol-free community concerts and events. From 1934, Temperance Hall was fitted out as a cinema and renamed the Imperial Theatre, showing popular Hollywood films, before closing in 1939 for renovations and reopening as the Savoy Theatre, Melbourne’s first “Continental” talkies cinema. At this time, Australian cinema programming was dominated by American and British films. The lessees, Continental Film Art Theatre began negotiating for theatre properties in Melbourne, Sydney, Adelaide, Brisbane, Perth and Auckland to screen foreign language films, hoping to present the finest productions from France, Germany, Holland and Italy. At the cost of £6000, the theatre was fitted with the latest Mirrophonic sound and projection system and enlarged to seat 800 patrons with luxurious, ultra modern fittings and furnishings in a colour palette of rust and beige. Instead of usherettes, General Manager Peter Dawson, hoping to bring a sophisticated European atmosphere to the theatre, employed attractive, multilingual “Continental hostesses” to assist guests (not patrons) and answer queries relating to the films. Collectively the hostesses spoke English, French, Dutch, German, Russian and Italian. The Age 20 May 1939- “Atmosphere is a very important part of the theatre's scheme. Ushers in the ordinary sense will not be employed; hostesses will look upon patrons as guests. They will be dressed in full evening dress, and the only indication that they are not guests is the little medallion pinned to their evening dress, on which their names are inscribed.” The hostesses were dressed in evening gowns of olive-green velvet, the full skirts embroidered with gold loops, wine velvet bolero jackets and long white kid gloves with silvery tiaras in their hair. For guests worried that they may not understand the plot, the management assured patrons that- “By means of superimposed English translations on the bottom of the screen, the dialogue is perfectly understandable and the whole witty story can be followed with ease.” The Gala opening of the Savoy Theatre, on 31 May 1939 was attended by a “who’s who” of Melbourne Society, the women wearing beautiful gowns, headdresses and furs. Amongst the guests were former premier Sir Stanley Argyle and Lady Argyle, former Lord Mayor Sir Harold Gengoult-Smith and his wife Cynthia, Field Marshall Thomas Blamey and Lady Blamey and Miss Jessie Brookes. The Vice Consul for France, Monsieur Frank Puaux and his wife attended, Madame Puaux dressed in a black satin gown and a musquash fur cape. She was presented with a beautiful bouquet of scarlet carnations and lily of the valley tied with the tricolour of France. In his speech Monsieur Puaux stated that “from the cultural, linguistic and artistic points of view it was excellent that the Australian public should have an opportunity to see foreign film in the original language.” “Letty” writing in Table Talk magazine described the atmosphere of “Continental” gaiety that had permeated Melbourne - “The Letters of Letty”, Table Talk 8 June 1939 “The “foreign influence” is definitely obtruding itself into the even tenor of Melbourne life these days…. but in the pleasantest manner possible! Included in the great number of Continental people who have recently made their homes here, we have stars of the Russian ballet settling in our midst…. and now… we have been presented with our own Continental picture theatre in the attractive shape of The Savoy, which opened its doors on Wednesday night for the exclusive release of foreign films. One could hardly recognise the old Temperance Hall in its adaptation to the smart, comfortable and thoroughly-intriguing Savoy Theatre. Where once this rather draughty old building stood in Russell Street there now greets us an unmistakable “Continental” edifice, living up to its exterior by sustaining within its walls its overseas’ atmosphere. Indeed, one feels as though one has crossed the threshold into a European city, stepping out of the unmistakably Australian street that is Russell into The Savoy lounge to be greeted by polite “messieurs” from the attractive, Continental-looking usherettes and to gaze upon a film as delightfully French in story and presentation as “La Kermesse Heroique.” But successful though “La Kermesse Heroique” proved on its initial presentation inside the theatre, the debut was no more triumphal than that made by the winning and pretty little French lass who had charge of the booking office outside in the foyer. With her attractive accent and Continental flair for making one “feel at home” she was undoubtedly one of the hits of the night-especially with the susceptible males, who spent very much longer in the lounge than is customary, racking their brains for excuses for making conversation with the attractive Parisienne! Those French girls certainly have a way with them!” The opening film, the 1935 French comedy “La Kermesse Heroique”, (The Heroic Sex) starring Francoise Rosay and Jean Murat (film now called “Carnival in Flanders”) was the winner of the Grand Prix du Cinema Francais as the finest picture of 1936 and described in the advertisement as “The Gay French Comedy of Laughter and Romance” The film is set during the 17th century Spanish occupation of Flanders in the Flemish town of Boom at the time of their annual festival. Hearing news of a pending visit to Boom by the commander, the Duke of Olivares and his army, and fearing rape and pillage, the boorish burgomaster feigns his own death, hoping the Spaniards will bypass the grieving town out of respect. The army arrives and the cowardly men of the town flee. The womenfolk decide on a different approach. Lead by the burgomaster’s beautiful wife Cornelia, they set out to to preserve the peace with grace and hospitality only to find the Spaniards attractive and virile, unlike their own husbands. The Sun newspaper described the film as “Mellow as a Stilton cheese, and as ripely suited to adult taste.” Preceding “La Kermesse Heroique” was a Gaumont British newsreel of King George VI and Queen Elizabeth departing for a tour of Canada and the Soviet documentary “Nine Months on a Drifting Ice Floe” During the war “Continental” films became difficult to source, so the Savoy screened Hollywood movies and held fund raisers for the war effort. After World War Two, the Savoy continued to screen “Continental” films, catering to post-war immigrants from Europe and bohemian Melburnians. In 1953, the Savoy had a wildly popular season with queues winding around the block to see Swedish summer romance “One Summer of Happiness” (Hon dansade en sommar) with its nude swimming scenes. The Chief Commonwealth Censor declined to cut the film on the grounds that although it displayed nudity, it was genuinely artistic. According to Wikipedia, film director Fred Schepisi was first exposed to European films such as “Bicycle Thieves”, “Rocco and His Brothers” and “The Wages of Fear” at the Savoy as a teenager, leading to his long career in filmmaking. In 1955, in response to the massive rise in car ownership, the Melbourne City Council recommended that parking stations be built on every block. The Savoy Theatre and adjacent buildings, which included the Golden Fleece Hotel were demolished in 1963 and replaced with Total House, a Brutalist commercial building consisting of a seven storey car park crowned by a four storey office block, shops at street level, and a basement theatre which housed the Lido Theatre Restaurant-Cabaret from 1965. The building was designed by architectural firm Bogle & Banfield Associates and named for the original tenant of the offices, French oil company, Total Oil Products P/L. The Lido Theatre Restaurant was managed by former Tivoli dancer and promoter David Hamilton McIlwraith, presenting dinner and a glamorous cabaret floor show of showgirls, (some topless) to accompany variety acts by local and international actors, singers, comedians and magicians. The interior of the Lido was opulently decorated in deep, lush green with old world gold trim and chandeliers. Handily, patrons could enter and leave via an elevator, straight from the building’s own car park! A four course gourmet dinner with show and dancing cost $8.00 in 1968. The Lido advertised in 1966 that “Every visitor to Melbourne soon discovers the brightest entertainment spot in the Southern Hemisphere with its million dollar decor, dining delights and spectacular stage productions.” Australian Jewish News - 21 April 1967 - “Superb decor and atmosphere, cuisine and service have been readily recognised as the contributing factors to the excellence of stage presentations, staging, costumes, decor and, of course, the actual choice of artists.” The bedazzling ensemble of 40 high-kicking, feathered and sequinned showgirls were advertised as the “Fabulous Lido girls and the controversial Baretop Lido Goddesses” who were described as “Statuesque Beauty as Nature intended” and “…a host of glamorous gals whose favourite shade is flesh pink.” Some of the acts who performed at the Lido were- -Broken Hill’s own - opera singer June Bronhill -1967. -Versatile singer Lovelace Watkins known as “Black Sinatra - 1967. -“Queen of the five-fingered boogie", honky-tonk and rollicking rag-time pianist, Winifred Atwell - 1967. -New Zealand pop duo, Bill and Boyd -1968. -American actress and soprano Kathryn Grayson -1968. -Denise Drysdale in “Say It With Music” -1968. -“Catwoman” Eartha Kitt -1969. -Internationally recognised female impersonator, Sydneysider Tracey Lee, (Maxwell Richie) billed as "controversial impressionist and singing personality from the famous Carousel Nightspot in Paris". -Frances Faye, American comedienne and show-tune singer and pianist-1969. -“Cry Guy” histrionic singer Johnnie Ray -1970. -Risqué revue “Oh Calcutta!” with some segments and the “four letter” words removed-1970. In 1970, under new management, the Lido was renovated with claret and gold wallpaper, midnight blue ceiling and a computerised fountain with fairy lights and relaunched by “The Tigress from Tiger Bay”, Shirley Bassey. The relaunch was short lived however, as later that year the venue became El Toro Espana, a Spanish restaurant and nightclub offering a four course meal for $4.50 while you watched the floorshow. The venue then briefly became the Red Garter Music Hall Theatre from 1972, then in 1974 the site became the 600 seat Total Theatre comprising of a cinema with a stage for live acts. There were also three bars to choose from - the Crush Bar, the Bleachers and the Snake Pit. Total Theatre had the unusual concept of a live music act, or plays, musicals and magicians followed by a film. In 1975 soprano Suzanne Steele featured, followed by the film “The Voyage” starring Sophia Loren and Richard Burton. In 1975, the Total held a rock film festival showing a Jimi Hendrix documentary, “Monterey Pop Festival”, “Pink Floyd in Pompeii” and more. In 1976, 17 year old Chrissy Amphlett, later of rock band Divinyls, played the role of Linda Lips for nine months in the Australian stage production of R-rated “sexual musical”, “Let My People Come” at the Total Theatre. The Total Theatre closed in 1979 and from 1980 to 2014 the venue became Billboard Nightclub, hosting local and international acts, including INXS, Tina Turner and John Farnham, and in 2009, 18 year old Taylor Swift. The venue is now called 170 Russell and presents hundreds of live local and international acts every year. In 2014, after being under threat of demolition, Total House was listed on the Victorian Heritage Register as “a landmark of post-World War II modernist design and…one of the earliest and best expressions of Brutalist architecture in Victoria”. References: RICHARD CROOKS ARRIVES SCHOOL AGAIN VENUE OF ROYAL VISIT (1939, May 31). The Age (Melbourne, Vic. : 1854 - 1954), p. 17. Retrieved November 21, 2025, from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article205629696 AMUSEMENTS. (1933, July 27). The Age (Melbourne, Vic. : 1854 - 1954), p. 12. Retrieved September 19, 2025, from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article204378853 https://larzra.wordpress.com/origins/ CONTINENTAL HOSTESSES, (1939, May 31). The Sun News-Pictorial (Melbourne, Vic. : 1922 - 1954; 1956), p. 27. Retrieved November 21, 2025, from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article278189387 The Letters of Letty (1939, June 8). Table Talk (Melbourne, Vic. : 1885 - 1939), p. 12. Retrieved October 29, 2025, from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article149320966 SAVOY THEATRE (1939, June 1). The Age (Melbourne, Vic. : 1854 - 1954), p. 7. Retrieved September 19, 2025, from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article205639035 NEW THEATRE OPENED (1939, June 1). The Argus (Melbourne, Vic. : 1848 - 1957), p. 8. Retrieved September 21, 2025, from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article12134234 https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Total_House Page [?] TOUCH OF SPAIN (1970, December 18). The Australian Jewish News (Melbourne, Vic. : 1935 - 1999), p. 35. Retrieved September 23, 2025, from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article262493757 No title (1935, June 11). The Herald (Melbourne, Vic. : 1861 - 1954), p. 27. Retrieved September 29, 2025, from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article244840169 Dine, wine, and watch a stage show (1966, November 16). The Australian Women's Weekly (1933 - 1982), p. 6. Retrieved November 9, 2025, from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article44025050 http://jonathanbollen.net/2011/02/26/tracey-lee/ LIDO ‘ART’ (1967, April 21). The Australian Jewish News (Melbourne, Vic. : 1935 - 1999), p. 8. Retrieved November 9, 2025, from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article263003136 THE FABULOUS LIDO (1965, October 22). The Australian Jewish News (Melbourne, Vic. : 1935 - 1999), p. 17. Retrieved November 9, 2025, from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article262983995 No title (1939, May 31). The Argus (Melbourne, Vic. : 1848 - 1957), p. 6. Retrieved November 21, 2025, from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article12134144 #NEW THEATRE OPENED (1939, June 1). The Argus (Melbourne, Vic. : 1848 - 1957), p. 8. Retrieved September 29, 2025, from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article12134234 https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tracey_Lee_(female_impersonator) https://citycollection.melbourne.vic.gov.au/35b-40h-image-of-a-model-for-the-total-house-offices-and-car-park-on-russell-street/ https://www.theage.com.au/national/victoria/from-the-archives-1990-s-hundreds-of-school-closures-hit-victoria-20190801-p52cwj.html http://jonathanbollen.net/2011/05/29/the-lido-melbourne/Photographer notations on slide: primary schools, schools, music, education, choirs, fitzroy, cars, theatre restaurants, venues, films

The Australian Service Medal and Pacific Star Medal that were awarded to Private Arthur Norman Comben VX26251 for his war service in World War Two. From the AWM website Private Arthur N Comden of the 2/21st Australian Infantry Battalion, who died on Hainan Island, China, on 27 June 1945. The DVA records show he was born 6 April 1907 in Yarraville and enlisted on 17 June 1940 whilst residing in Coopers Creek Victoria. His next of kin was shown as H Dilks. Also that he had been a prisoner of war. His connection with Legacy is not known, he may have been a junior legatee though there's no record of his father Arthur John Louis Comben serving for Australia in WW1. More research is needed to check, it is possible the medals were donated to Legacy as no family members wanted them. Additional information provided by a distant relative - Arthur's mother (Mary Eleanor Norman) remarried twice after his fathers death in 1911. His stepfather Horace Dilks served in World War 1 with the 2nd Pioneer Battalion.These are examples of World War 2 medals awarded to a serviceman who participated in the conflict in the Pacific region. Many returned servicemen joined Legacy after World War 2 and would have had similar medals.Silver circular medal and bronze star shaped medal from World War 2 mounted on ribbons initially together by a safety pin. 01700.1 The medal is nickel silver with the crowned effigy of King George VI on the obverse. The reverse has the Australian coat of arms, placed centrally, surrounded by the words ‘THE AUSTRALIA SERVICE MEDAL 1939-1945’. The normal ribbon is missing and it is on the ribbon meant for the UK War Medal which is of red, white and blue to represent the colours of the Union Flag. 01700.2 The six–pointed star is yellow copper zinc alloy. The obverse has a central design of the Royal and Imperial cypher, surmounted by a crown. The cypher is surrounded by a circlet containing the words ‘The Pacific Star’. The ribbon has central yellow and green stripes that represent the forests and the beaches of the Pacific, flanked dark blue, light blue and red stripes that represent the service of the Naval Forces and Merchant Navy, the Air Forces and the Armies.Both engraved with 'VX26251 A. N. Comben'.medals, world war two, arthur comden

Paper pamphlet printed by the COGB and signed by Mayor David W Streader to thank the children who participated in the welcoming tableau for the Duke and Duchess of Gloucester to Bendigo, Thursday, 14th November, 1946. Prince Henry, Duke of Gloucester, KG, KT, KP, GCB, GCMG, GCVO, PC (Henry William Frederick Albert; 31 March 1900 – 10 June 1974) was the third son and fourth child of King George V and Queen Mary. He served as Governor-General of Australia from 1945 to 1947, the only member of the British royal family to hold the post. Princess Alice, Duchess of Gloucester, GCB, CI, GCVO, GBE (born Alice Christabel Montagu Douglas Scott; 25 December 1901 – 29 October 2004) was the wife of Prince Henry, Duke of Gloucester, the third son of King George V and Queen Mary. She was the mother of Prince William of Gloucester and Prince Richard, Duke of Gloucester. The daughter of the 7th Duke of Buccleuch, Scotland's largest landowner, she became by marriage a princess of the United Kingdom, and a sister-in-law to Edward VIII and George VI. She was thus an aunt by marriage to Elizabeth II. Princess Alice was extremely well travelled, both before and after her marriage. At the time of her death at 102, she was the oldest living member of the British royal family. David W. Streader (1887 - 1978) was Mayor of Bendigo from 1946 - 47. He was a JP and belonged to the Loyal Sandhurst Lodge. Paper pamphlet printed in blue, purple and red ink by the COGB and signed by Mayor David W Streader to thank the children who participated in the welcoming tableau for the Duke and Duchess of Gloucester to Bendigo, Thursday, 14th November, 1946. Souvenir / City of Bendigo / To the Children who participated in the TABLEAU / welcoming THEIR ROYAL HIGHNESSES, / THE DUKE and THE DUCHESS of CLOUCESTER / BENDIGO, Thursday, 14th November, 1946 / [ decorative line break] / After following with rapt attention the various phases / of the TABLEAU of WELCOME in THEIR honour, HIS ROYAL / HIGHNESS, THE DUKE OF GLOUCESTER, on behalf of the / DUCHESS and HIMSELF, said :- / [italics] "I am deeply moved by this magnificent spectacle. / Will you kindly convey my grateful thanks to all / concerned in the presentation of this beautiful / tableau ?" / in conveying this message to you, may I , as Mayor of / the City, add my personal congratulations and thanks to/ those of THEIR ROYAL HIGHNESSES for such a delightful / effort. / [signed] David. W. Streader / Mayor duke and duchess of gloucester, governor-general, city of greater bendigo royal visits, city of greater bendigo tourism, mayor d.w. streader, mayoress streader

Private Laurence Alfred Kennedy died of illness in a Japanese prisoner of war camp in Malaya on July 7th, 1942, aged 22. He was posted missing from the 8th Division after they retreated across the causeway to Singapore, and no information about his fate was retrieved until at least 1945. His two brothers (Geoffrey and John) would both also suffer tragic deaths - Geoffrey gored by a bull at home and John (whose medals are also in our collection, listed under VEMU2306) killed in a car accident soon after returning to Australia.L. A. Kennedy was a member of a local family who served in the Second World War and died tragically like his brothers, forming an important story of local community history.A set of four medals, including two identical 1939-45 Australia Service Medals (a/b), a 1939-1945 Star (c), and a Pacific Star (d). a/b) Australia Service Medals: A round silver medal 36 millimetres in diameter with a [ribbon]. The obverse bears the crowned effigy of King George VI, surrounded by the legend inscription. The reverse shows the coat of arms of the Commonwealth of Australia surrounded by words. Lettering with the recipient's name and enlistment number is also engraved in the edge. a) Has marginally more aging, and its ribbon is vertical stripes of (left to right) dark blue, red, white, red, light blue, identical to that on d. b) Appears newer, and its ribbon is vertical stripes of (left to right) red, light blue, green, yellow, green, dark blue, red. c) 1939-1945 Star: A six-pointed star struck in yellow brass to fit in a 44 millimetre diameter circle. The obverse centres on the Royal Cypher, surrounded by a legend with a crown at the top. The reverse features the recipient's name and enlistment number. The ribbon is vertical stripes of (left to right) dark blue, red, and light blue. d) Pacific Star: A six-pointed star struck in yellow brass to fit in a 44 millimetre diameter circle. The obverse centres on the Royal Cypher, surrounded by a legend with a crown at the top. The reverse features the recipient's name and enlistment number. The ribbon is vertical stripes of (left to right) dark blue, red, white, red, light blue, identical to that on the b.a/b) Obverse: "GEORGIVS VI D:G:BR:OMN:REX ET INDIAE IMP" (George 6th, by the grace of God, King of all the Britains and Emperor of India) Reverse: "THE AUSTRALIA SERVICE MEDAL / 1939-1945" Edge: "VX46024 L. A. KENNEDY" c) Obverse, Royal Cypher: "GRI / VI" Obverse, Legend: "THE 1939 - 1945 STAR" Reverse: "VX46024 / L. A. KENNEDY" d) Obverse, Royal Cypher: "GRI / VI" Obverse, Legend: "THE PACIFIC STAR" Reverse: "VX46024 / L. A. KENNEDY"kennedy family, world war ii, world war two, second world war

This badge features a portrait of Queen Elizabeth the Queen Mother, Princess Elizabeth and King George VI. The date is uncertain but it may have been created prior to Princess Elizabeth's tour to Africa in 1952. Whilst on this tour to represent her father, King George passed away and Princess Elizabeth ascended to the throne while staying at the Treetops Hotel in Kenya. Her official coronation took place in London on 2 June 1953. King George VI reigned from 11 December 1936, upon the abdication of Edward VIII, until his death in 1952. Queen Elizabeth the Queen Mother, born Elizabeth Angela Marguerite Bowes-Lyon in 1900, passed away on 30 March 2002 at Royal Lodge, Windsor, Berkshire, England.This item is significant because it is a rare photo of the Royal Family.An oval shaped badge featuring a coloured portrait of Queen Elizabeth The Queen Mother, Queen Elizabeth II, and King George VI. It has a small pin and a plastice stand attached to the back so it could be pinned to clothing or stand upright.british royal family, royal memorabilia