Original correspondence from SO Miller to Gladys Holmes, Bakery, Byaduk written from abroad in July 1917. 3117 Pte Stanley Owen Miller was born in London, England. He worked at the McGillivray farm, Byaduk. Enlisted 8th January 1917 and served with the 38th Battio - 7th Reinforcements and embarked on the HMAT A70 Ballarat. Killed on 7th June 1917 at Villiers Bretonneux, France, aged 20. Original correspondence envelope and two page letter written by an Englishman to Gladys Holmes of the Bakery, Byaduk. When working on the McGillivray farm at Byaduk in 1917 he enlisted in the A.I.F. One of fourteen items of documents gifted, all correspondence from abroad to Byaduk residents. 001804.1 - 001804.1R: Envelope- Y.M.C.A. branded issue, black ink postmark and 1d red stamp 001804.2-001804.3R Two sheets of Y.M.C.A. paper, buff with central black YMCA logo, 'For God, For King & For Country' with "HM FORCES ON ACTIVE SERVICE' superimposed on reversed machine guns and two red and blue Y.M.C.A. logos written in blue ink on both sides. 001804.9.-.001804.9R: small black and white photograph of a soldier with 11 lines of handwritten descriptive text on the reverse. 001804.1 -1R: Y.M.C.A. envelope handwritten 'On active service abroad' addressed to Miss G. Holmes/Byaduk (Bakery)/Via Hamilton/Victoria/Australia. Red 1d pRE Reverse- Byaduk/Byaduk/M Miss G.I. Holmes 001804.2- 001804.3R: Three pages of blue ink handwriting on Y.M.C.A. letter paper. Abroad/ Dear Gladys....I remain yours S.O.Miller.gladys holmes, so miller, 3117, hmat a70 ballarat, villiers bretonneoux, byaduk memorial hall, honour board, ww 1, letter, y.m.c.a., photograph, diet sheet, villers bretonneux, byaduk memorial hall honour board, england

Background context for the establishment of the Eltham War Memorial as a living memorial, championed by the women of the community with the establishment of the Eltham War Memorial Trust and how the memorial was funded by public donations and eventually handed over to Council. The essay came about in 2018 following community protest at Council's plans to sell the land. Following abandonment of the sale process and putting development on hold, community groups pulled together to apply for heritage protection of the site with Heritage Victoria. This was formally rejected in May 2020.Contents: An essay addressed to the Councillors of Nillumbik Shire, October 2018: About the Eltham War Memorial and the adjacent community-owned sites in Eltham that the Council threatens to sell, Andrew Lemon Nov. 2018 Public Notice: Heritage Act 2017, Recommendations to the Heritage Council, Heritage Council Victoria, The Age, May 22, 2020, p34eltham war memorial, eltham war memorial trust, mrs. ada lyon, mrs. cairns officer, mrs. j.j. morrison, andrew lemon, children's library, eltham war memorial garden, eltham war memorial gate, eltham war memorial hall, garden of remembrance, heritage council victoria, nillumbik shire council, theodore feldbauer, violet feldbauer (nee teagle)

Address in memory of Australian Dead by the Bishop of Amiens in the Church of Long(somme) Nov 4th 1918. On white cardboard to has French & Australian flags, wreath in centre, scroll with PAS N'OUBLIONS LES MORTS. Down end side are pillars on a base. Down each pillar in scrolls are Names of Australian Battle Honours.documents - addresses & memorials, military history - army, amiens, somme

This file contains two items: 1/A group of eight letters, predominantly between Hon. Secretary of Caulfield Historical Society R. Ballantyne and members of the Caulfield City Council written between 1981 and 1983, regarding the installation of a plaque in commemoration of the centenary of the Rosstown Railway. The first two letters are handwritten from R. Ballantyne to G. Calder and Carol Camy, dated 01/06/1981 and 22/02/1982. The letter to G. Calder supports a suggestion in the May edition of the CAULFIELD CONTACT for the installation of a plaque in celebration of the centenary of the Rosstown Railway, suggesting a potential site for another plaque on Curraweena Road. The letter to Carol Harry discusses the costing of the plague and a possible contribution towards this cost from the Caulfield Historical Society. The letter appears to be incomplete, having no sign off from the author. Attached to the letter is what appears to be a suggestion for the inscription of the plaque. The letters addressed to R. Ballantyne are typed and dated 12/06/1981, 24/06/1981, 14/07/19891, 17/12/1981 and 08/09/1983, from A. Craig and D.B. Hogan on behalf of City Manager G.K. Calder and City Liason Officer Carol Harry. All letters concern the commemorative plaque, with these from Carol Harry including handwritten notes which appear to be in R. Ballantyne’s handwriting. The final letter is from Mayoral Secretary Norma Polglase to Miss B. Snowball, dated 23/08/1983, inviting her to attend the unveiling of the plaque. Also included in the item are Council Committee Meeting minutes, dated 16/05/1981, broaching the subject of installing the plaque in Koornang Road. 2/Four colour photographs and two black and white copies of one of the photographs, all dated 18/09/1983 and showing the opening of the commemorative plaque in Marrara Gardens. Two photographs picture Mayor Brian Rudski and City Manager Graham Calder with a crowd of unidentified people present. One photograph and both copies are of the inscription on the plaque, with the wording identical to that of the handwritten note by R. Ballantyne, in item one.caulfield, caulfield south, calder g.k., calder g., hawthorn road, glen eira road, ballantyne r., office workers, caulfield contact, norman peter, groups, glen huntly, koornang road, mills, sugar mills, caulfield historical society, caulfield city council, caulfield town hall, official buildings, glen huntly neville street fourteen, parliamentary representatives, rosstown, rosstown railway, rosstown railway centenary, festivals and celebrations, centenaries, historical markers, plaques, monuments and memorials, ross murray, railways, land transport, curraweena road, parts of buildings or structures, bluestone structures, construction materials, caulfield community liaison officer, harry carol, currency, finances, onley peter, elsternwick, oakleigh, council meetings, caulfield council chambers, caulfield municipal chambers, caulfield municipal offices, craig a., caulfield city manager, city of caulfield, caulfield physical environment committee, public meetings, meetings, ross james, hogan o.b., arrow engraving, campbell f., snowball miss., elsternwick gladstone parade nineteen, walters w.r., marara road gardens, marara road, marara gardens, narrawong road, ceremonies, caulfield mayors, polglase norma, mayoral secretaries, railways routes, documents, correspondence, rudski brian, calder graham, events and activities, official buildings, insignia, local government, local officials and employees, parks and reserves, buildings structures and establishments, official events, festivals and celebrations, occupations, political processes, local history, history, financial economics, local government finance

The Eureka Sunday Luncheon was presented by the Eureka Stockade Memorial Association. Blue card programme. The Guest speaker at the Eureka Luncheon was the Hon. Dr Barry Jones AO, the chairman was Frank Williams, and the MC was Andrew Robson President of the Old Colonists' Association of Ballarat. John Ireland was presented with the Eureka Illuminated Address.eureka sunday luncheon, eureka stockade memorial association, val d'angri, norm d'angri, al grassby, frank williams, barry jones, john ireland, helen bath, andrew robson, rupert bowd, ken brumby, david vendy, elizabeth matuschka, john morgan

non-fictionThe comprehensive history of the 6th Australian Division Cavalry Commandos – a (now out of print) reprint of one of the rarer Armoured unit history books. This is the story of one of Australia’s most famous fighting regiments during World War II. As an armoured cavalry unit it fought the Italians and Germans in the sands of the African desert and the Vichy French in the mountains of Syria. Later as a dismounted commando unit it fought the Japanese in the terrifying jungles of New Guinea. The heroism of the men in its ranks and the actions in which they engaged are portrayed in a way which makes battle deeds leap realistically from the pages. “To The Green Fields Beyond” is a documented and detailed book which is of value to everyone who is interested in Australia’s story. Seldom before has such a contribution been made to record of our national history. The book has been approved and sponsored by the Australian War Memorial. The 6th Division Cavalry Regiment was formed in November 1939 and, just two months later, was sent overseas to the Middle East in January 1940. Arriving in Egypt, the regiment immediately went to Palestine, where it joined the rest of the 6th Division and trained using machine-gun carriers and, from October, six old Vickers light tanks. At the end of the year the regiment moved into the Western Desert, where it joined British forces ready for the major offensive to commence on 9 December. Two days later the regiment became the first unit of the 2nd Australian Imperial Force (AIF) to go into action when one of its squadron fought a sharp action against the Italians holding Garn el Grein and Fort Maddalina on 11 and 12 December. By 21 December British forces had captured Sidi Barrrani and the desert was now open for the 6th Division’s advance along the Libyan coast. On 3 January 1941 the division attacked and captured the Italian fort of Bardia. The regiment’s A Squadron, under the command of Major Denzil Macarthur-Onslow, who went on to command the 4th Armoured Brigade, supported the attack. Tobruk was the next Italian fort to be captured, with the regiment again in support and covering the 19th Brigade’s advance. The regiment, though, was under-equipped and without its full compliment of vehicles, using only machine gun carriers. To compensate for this, A Squadron was parity re-equipped with captured Italian light tanks, which had large kangaroos painted on the hulls and turrets to distinguish them from enemy vehicles. After Tobruk, the regiment was used as part of the advance guard in the capture of Derna and then Benghazi. In April the unit moved to Helwan, where it was equipped with Vickers light tanks and machine-gun carriers, and operated with British troops in capturing Sollum. Towards the end of May the regiment moved to Palestine, where it came under the command of the 7th Division for the imminent invasion of Syria. The regiment experienced its heaviest fighting during the Syrian campaign, which began on 7 June. A Squadron was attached to the 21st Brigade and advanced along the coast, where the rugged hills made it difficult to manoeuvre the tanks and carriers. The squadron was relieved by one of the 9th Division Cavalry Regiment’s squadrons on 13 and 14 June. C Squadron, meanwhile, was with the 25th Brigade, and advanced along the Rosh Pinna road, engaging strong enemy defences at Fort Khirbe. C Squadron was relieved by B Squadron, which was later attacked by Vichy French tanks that were supported by heavy artillery and machine-gun fire, which forced the Australians to withdrawal. Always willing or needing to improvise during the campaign, A and B Squadrons both operated three captured French R35 Renault light tanks, while C Squadron provided personnel for a horse troop, quickly nicknamed the “Kelly Gang”, to patrol the high, rugged hills near the Mardjayoun–Banis Road. The regiment remained in Syria as part of the occupation force and returned to Australia in March 1942. It was sent to the Adelaide River, in the Northern Territory, and then later to Murgon, in Queensland. In 1943 and 1944 divisional cavalry regiments were reorganised into cavalry (commando) regiments. In January 1944 the 6th Division Cavalry Regiment became the 2/6th Cavalry (Commando) Regiment. The regiment lost its vehicles and became the administrative headquarters for the 2/7th, 2/9th, and 2/10th Commando Squadrons. The regiment remained with the 6th Division and participated in the Aitpae–Wewak campaign, in New Guinea, during 1945. Includes Nominal Rollww2, australian commandos, australian special forces, world war 2

The Norman Oliver collection. Norman Oliver was three times Mayor of Bendigo - 1950-51, 1964-65, 1970-71. One page letter with the letterhead of the Winston Churchill Memorial Trust, addressed to Cr N. J. Oliver, Lord Mayor of Bendigo, requesting his assistance with the raising of funds for the setting up of Churchill Fellowships. The letter is signed by Robert Menzies (R.G. Menzies)bendigo, council, norman joseph oliver , councillor norman oliver. mayor of bendigo. churchill fellowships.

Letter and envelope addressed to Mr. K. Guiney, 126 Sternberg St.,Bendigo. a. envelope has 1 1/2 d stamp, dated 4 June, 1936. Written in greylead ' No 1385' Bottom LH corner 'PMG, J.L. Howard, Lyric Buildings Charing Cross, Bendigo. Victoria.' b. letter of invite to 'Philco" tone display at the Memorial Hall, Pall Mall, Bendigo on 8th and 9th. June, 1936. Letterhead has 'J.L. Howard, everything electrical, Lyric Building, Charing Cross' printed on dark grey background.bendigo, business, j.l. howard, electrical

Two letters on City of Bendigo letterhead both addressed to C. Holsworth one dated 12th May, 1993 - RE proposal for a Memorial at White Hills Cemetery, the second one dated 22nd October 1993 - RE Proposed Monument Old Bendigo Cemetery. Also a photocopy of an handwritten letter from Carol Holsworth to Mr. Frost of the Bendigo City Council and one from Mr. Q. C. Binks.bendigo, council, cemetery

Document. Handwritten letter to George and Dave Harris of Axedale from Walter Ching informing them of the death of their sister Laura, dated October 16th 1914. Cream paper with black border. Blue envelope addressed to ''Mr Dave and George Harris, Axedale. Letter written from Dobie, near Ararat, where Ching family had moved from Axedale. Walter Ching's parents,Walter William and Harriet Ching are buried in the Bendigo Cemetery, MON H6. Walter Ching was killed in Action in WW1- 8.10.1917, aged 21. No known grave. Name on the YPRES Memorial Belgium. Walter Russell Ching was born at Grassdale (Near Axedale). Occupation Chemist's Apprentice.performing arts, elocution, letter and envelope

Peter Ellis funeral program. Peter Nicolaus Ellis. 27th March 1946 - 18th May 2015. Service for thanksgiving. Mulqueen Family Chapel Bendigo. Monday 25th May 2015. Celebrant: Mr Ian Hendry. Coffin Bearers Brian Edelbohle, John Cockfield, Doug Colt, Rick Bambridge, Ryan Hearps, Garry Lovejoy. Entrance Music: Live from The Emu Creek Bush Band. Welcome. Condolences. Celebrant's comments. Tributes: Brian Edelbohle, John Williams, Rob Willis, Rob Moors, Ryan Hearps. A time of reflection. Announcements. Celebrant's comments. Committal. Recessional Music: Live from The Emu Creek Band. You are invited to join Peter's family and friends for light refreshments at the One Tree Hill Hotel from about 12.30 this afternoon. Peter's family and extended family sincerely thank you for your attendance here today and for your love and support during this difficult time. Thank you. Leave memorial messages at www.heavenaddress.com @heaven address. Mulqueen family funeral directors Bridge street, Bendigo 03 5443 4455. Copyright Agency Limited Licensed Copy. Photo of Peter Ellis on front. Boy with dog fishing inside left. Photo of Peter Family and another of Mulqueen Funeral Home.person, individual, peter ellis oam

Two empty envelopes addressed to Mr. Kelly esq. The envelops are empty. One of the envelopes has a red King George V 1 penny stamps, the other a green king George V stamp. Invitation to Mr. Kelly to attend a business men's meeting to be held at the Memorial Hall, Bendigo on Thursday, May 28th at 11 am to meet the Prime Minister, Mr. S.M. Bruce.beehive exchange, kelly stockbroker

Letter from Felicity Kingerlee, Hon. Secretary of the Bendigo Historical Society addressed to Ms. M. Pinge, Secretary student awards committee Latrobe University . Reference to the awarding of the Amy Huxtable memorial history prize for 1998 to Maree Edwards.person, individual, amy huxtable

Back up document for Keith Winterbottom's Memorial Plaque.PaperAddress form for Memorial Plaque

A typed copy of a speech by Legatee Brian Armstrong delivered as the Savige Memorial Oration at the Federal Conference of Legacy Clubs in Canberra on 22 October 1954. It is an account of Savige's life, his war service and his role in Legacy. Legatee Armstrong was a good friend of Savige. The moving address described General Savige's life and service career, and how he formed Legacy in 1923 at the suggestion of his former Commander, Major General Sir John Gellibrand. He said at the time of his death the late General had been a member of Legacy for 30 years, and had been chosen to represent Legacy at the Coronation of Queen Elizabeth. Following the Second World War he held many important posts, one of the most notable being Co-ordinator of Demobilisation. Legatee Armstrong told the conference that if a memorial to the founder of Legacy was required, they only had to look around themselves.A record of the life and service of Legatee Stan Savige.White foolscap paper with black type x 3 pages of a speech about Legatee Savige.Handwritten on the reverse of the final page is 'Brian Armstrong Oration. Stanley Savige' in blue penvale, stan savige, conference

A typed copy of a speech by Legatee Brian Armstrong delivered as the Savige Memorial Oration at the Federal Conference of Legacy Clubs in Canberra on 22 October 1954. It is an account of Savige's life, his war service and his role in Legacy. Legatee Armstrong was a good friend of Savige. The moving address described General Savige's life and service career, and how he formed Legacy in 1923 at the suggestion of his former Commander, Major General Sir John Gellibrand. He said at the time of his death the late General had been a member of Legacy for 30 years, and had been chosen to represent Legacy at the Coronation of Queen Elizabeth. Following the Second World War he held many important posts, one of the most notable being Co-ordinator of Demobilisation. Legatee Armstrong told the conference that if a memorial to the founder of Legacy was required, they only had to look around themselves. This is a photocopy on flimsy brown paper, two other copies are in the archive.A record of the life and service of Legatee Stan Savige.Brown quarto paper with black type x 11 pages of a speech about Legatee Savige.Typed on top of first page 'Sir Stanley George Savige KBE. Copy of Commemorative address by Legatee Brian Armstrong - Federal Conference of Legacy Clubs, Canberra, October 1954.'vale, stan savige, conference

A typed copy of a speech by Legatee Brian Armstrong delivered as the Savige Memorial Oration at the Federal Conference of Legacy Clubs in Canberra on 22 October 1954. It is an account of Savige's life, his war service and his role in Legacy. Legatee Armstrong was a good friend of Savige. The moving address described General Savige's life and service career, and how he formed Legacy in 1923 at the suggestion of his former Commander, Major General Sir John Gellibrand. He said at the time of his death the late General had been a member of Legacy for 30 years, and had been chosen to represent Legacy at the Coronation of Queen Elizabeth. Following the Second World War he held many important posts, one of the most notable being Co-ordinator of Demobilisation. Legatee Armstrong told the conference that if a memorial to the founder of Legacy was required, they only had to look around themselves. This is an original typed copy with two other copies in the archive.A record of the life and service of Legatee Stan Savige.White quarto paper with black type x 11 pages of a speech about Legatee Savige.Handwritten on top of first page 'Savige Memorial Oration delivered by Legatee Brian Armstrong of Melbourne Legacy.'vale, stan savige, conference

Legatee Rogers collected information about Stan Savige after attending an unveiling of a statue of Savige and this print out was the Memorial Oration given t a Legacy Conference in 1954. Other copies are in the archive. The speech by Legatee Brian Armstrong is an account of Savige's life, his war service and his role in Legacy. Legatee Armstrong was a good friend of Savige. The moving address described General Savige's life and service career, and how he formed Legacy in 1923 at the suggestion of his former Commander, Major General Sir John Gellibrand. He said at the time of his death the late General had been a member of Legacy for 30 years, and had been chosen to represent Legacy at the Coronation of Queen Elizabeth. Following the Second World War he held many important posts, one of the most notable being Co-ordinator of Demobilisation. Legatee Armstrong told the conference that if a memorial to the founder of Legacy was required, they only had to look around themselves. Document was from a folder of documents donated to the archive by Legatee Bill Rogers that related to his time as President (March 2006 - March 2008).A record of the life and service of Legatee Stan Savige, founder of Legacy.Print out x 4 pages of an article on the website of www.firstAIF.info which was a copy of the Memorial Oration for Stan Savige.stan savige, assyrians

A bronze bust was erected in Morwell to honour Legacy Founder Sir Stanley Savige. It was unveiled on 31 August 2006 and Legatee Bill Rogers was invited to perform the unveiling. This is the address he on the occasion. In 1957 a few years after Stan Savige died Legacy was looking after 25,200 widows and 18,900 children. In 2006 Legacy was looking after 126,000 widows and and 1,900 children and disabled dependants nationally. In Victoria it was 24,000 widows and 400 children. Document was from a folder of documents donated to the archive by Legatee Bill Rogers that related to his time as President (March 2006 - March 2008).A record of an memorial to Legacy founder Stanley Savige in Morwell.Print out x 2 pages of a speech by Legatee Bill Rogers at the unveiling of the Stan Savige memorial in Morwell in 2006.stan savige, statue, memorial

Three documents relating to the redevelopment of Legacy House that was completed in 2006. In a message from the President published in the Bulletin, Legatee Bill Rogers mentions the official opening of Legacy House by the Governor of Victoria Professor David DeKretser AC on 25th August 2006. Also that two new tenants had been secured, IGA and Starbucks. The refurbishment had been necessary to upgrade the lift, provide better wheelchair access and comply with regulations. The notice also mentions an increased use of Direct Mail and the launch of the Torch Society in April. Second document was a reprint from a Press Release in 1957 when Sir Dallas Brooks officially opened Legacy House after purchase and refurbishment. The refurbishment was the first time Legacy approached the general public for funds as 90,000 pounds had been required. It also tells of the history of how Legacy acquired the David H Dureau Memorial Building through funds donated by a donor in 1944, a different property was purchased then sold and funds used to buy 293 Swanston St in 1956. The third document was the address that Bill Rogers spoke at the official opening on 25th August 2006. It mentions Bert Dennis, a former Junior Legatee, was donating the proceeds from an auction of a Dennis Family Homes project the following day. Document was from a folder of documents donated to the archive by Legatee Bill Rogers that related to his time as President (March 2006 - March 2008).A record of the history of Legacy House and its refurbishment over time.Print out x 4 pages about Legacy House, its redevelopment, reopening and history.dureau house, properties

After the death of Stan Savige this address was given at the Canberra Conference in October 1954. It is tribute to his life. Sir Stanley Savige KBE : Commemorative Address Federal Conference of Legacy Clubs, Canberra : October 1954. On the 15th of May this year Legacy learned to its enduring sorrow of the death of its Founder, Lieut. General Stanley George Savige KBE, CB, CBE, DSO, MC, ED, for more than 30 years affectionately known to us all as Legatee Stan Savige. He was the embodiment of all those things for which Legacy stands, and each one of us who knew him and worked with him feels a great and abiding sense of personal loss. It is proper, therefore, that those of us at this Conference, the first after his passing, representative of Legacy throughout the Commonwealth, and comprising so many who were his friends, so many who knew the depth of his love for Legacy, should acknowledge our debt to our Founder and ensure, so far as we may, that the inspiration of his life and work in this Cause shall not be lost to those who follow after. It was not ordained that Stanley George Savige - should enjoy a long life, but it was to prove a life of outstanding service. Born at Morwell in Victoria some 63 years ago, he received with his brothers and sisters such education as was then available to a lad in a mining district. He had no particular opportunities of advancement, but from his early days he cherished a strong ambition to make a success of his life, and with this in view he lost no opportunity of adding to his knowledge. Always a lover of the open country, a good bushman and a fine shot, he became as a young man, a Scoutmaster with a keen following of boys. Even in those early days he attracted youth and showed undoubted promise of the quality of leadership which later was to make him famous. Opportunity came with the first World War, and he took his place as a private soldier in the original 24th Battalion AIF. Followed Gallipoli and Anzac where his marksmanship and bush craft stood him in good stead. Conscious that his early training was not sufficient to secure the promotion he desired, he set himself to enlarge it. Only a man of fine fibre and rare determination could apply himself to study on that war torn Peninsula, where our men, hitherto untested, suffered every known hardship and no man knew, from hour to hour, whether he would survive. But Savige achieved it. Himself then a Corporal he found another Corporal who was a former Schoolmaster and learned from him all that he had to teach. Savige was on his way. He was commissioned on the Field and allotted the heroic task of leading the last party off that desperate coast during the famous evacuation. In France he became the Adjutant of his Battalion and one of the best known officers in the 6th Brigade. He won the Military Cross and was mentioned in despatches. Early in 1918 he received a signal distinction, He was included in a small but distinguished band of Officers and Non-Commissioned Officers from the British and Dominion Forces most carefully selected for individual courage and proved qualities of leadership, and was sent to Persia, under the command of Major-General Dunsterville, Kipling’s famous Stalky, to assist and mobilise the friendly tribes with a view to protecting the road to India, left wide open by the withdrawal of Russia. The story of the Dunsterforce, its suffering and achievements in the face of incredible hardships and difficulties, was later to be told by Savige in his book “Stalky’s Forlorn Hope”. He emerged, finally, unscathed, despite his active participation in several of the bloodiest battles of all time, with the rank of Captain and a DSO and MC to his credit, to say nothing of three mentions in despatches. In later years, further decorations were to be conferred upon him, but I believe he valued none of these so highly as his awards for outstanding personal bravery won in the Field when he was an Officer of comparatively junior rank. Such was the man who in August 1923, at the instance of his former Commander, Major-General Sir John Gellibrand, gathered around him a handful of men who had fought and laughed with him over four well remembered years. This small band adopted the name of “Legacy”, but its purpose then was, in the main, to assist in safeguarding the interests of ex-servicemen in this country. Worthy although the case undoubtedly was, the conception and ideal which was to distinguish Legacy from all kindred post-war movements did not emerge until two years later. The torch had not been lit. Legacy had not yet found its soul. What has been achieved since then is known to you all. The Legacy ideal, unique in its conception, with no known counterpart elsewhere, is now accepted, welcomed and honoured throughout the Commonwealth and abroad. But in those early days the achievements of our Founder in the face of all manner of difficulties and frustrations are worthy of our lasting memory and thankfulness. As the source of every river lies in the hills, so must the inspiration from which stems a great conceptions of service to one’s fellow men be lofty and above reproach. Savige was the embodiment of this new expression of comradeship, as he was the central figure and driving force of the little group that sponsored it. But for his zeal, his faith and determination, it is likely that the flame, newly kindled, might have flickered and died. The idea of men returned from active service pledging for the sake of their former comradeship, their personal assistance to the widows, and above all, to the children of those who had fought beside them and paid the full price of War, was so completely new and unexpected that it was by no means readily accepted. There were no funds, no precedents to guide the new adventurers, only the clear bright flame of an ideal just envisaged, and the conviction that the Cause was unassailable. Nor were there lacking many who said that the community held no place for Legacy, that it was born of sentiment only, and would quickly pass. The scoffers are gone and one since forgotten, but the torch remains and burns brighter than ever. Down the years of Legacy there are many names deserving of honour, men from all States and all stations of life, but no name stands out in such clear and bold relief as does the name of our Founder. By his works you shall know him. He was, in truth, the Soul of Legacy. He sought no office and preferred to work as one of the team. Six years went by before he accepted the Presidency of Melbourne Club, and then only because his fellows would book no further delay. “The Spirit of Legacy is Service” - so runs the Charter, and that was Savige’s Creed. By virtue of his attainments he was called upon to take a leading part in the administration of Legacy, first within his own club and later, as Chairman of the Co-ordinating Council of Legacy in Australia. But always it was the essentially human character of the work which enthralled and upheld him, and the tasks which gave him most joy were those which brought him into close personal contact with the youngsters and their home life. Like their elders they recognised his goodwill and his leadership and responded to it. It was Savige who made possible the first camps held for the boys and girls by Melbourne Club. These were erected on his own seaside property, and were originally conducted under his personal direction and largely with the aid of funds he had collected. There was hardly an important post in his own Club that Savige did not at some time occupy and adorn. He was happiest in the company of those men with whom he had served in the field, and cherished always the comradeship born of active service which is of the essence of Legacy. He was a man of strong convictions but attentive always to another’s point of view. As a Legatee he played a leading part in bringing hope and encouragement to many a mother on whom the whole responsibility of a young family had been suddenly and tragically laid; in the attainment of the ambitions of many an orphan child, which not so long since had seemed to him or her to be mere dreams, impossible of realisation. Comfort for the bereaved, new hope for the children’s physical and educational welfare, assistance with the home, aid for the sick, money for the needy and a new courage to face a future that hitherto had held no promise, all these facets of Legacy endeavour combine to present a living and enduring memorial to the man we honour as our Founder today. Between the two World Wars in addition to establishing himself successfully in civilian life and answering the constant calls of Legacy on his energy and time, Savige maintained an active association with the Army. He was convinced that a Second AIF would one day be urgently called upon, and as a Battalion Commander he spared no effort to train the Officers under his charge during the uneasy years of peace for the trial that he felt must come. These men have all subsequently had distinguished military careers, their names are well known and many of the serve in Legacy today. When the second crisis came, Savige himself was one of the first to offer, and although his youth was spent, he proudly carried the number VX13 throughout the terrible years that followed. This time he was to command, first the 17th Australian Infantry Brigade in the first action of the Second AIF against the enemy at Barida, and subsequently at Tobruk and Derna - all famous names now. It was his patrols which gave the warning - unheeded at the time - that Rommel’s reinforcements were reaching North Africa far earlier than was expected. Then followed the grim days of Greece and Crete when the fine qualities of his leadership were put to the utmost test. I have been told by those who were closest to him it was typical of Savige that when his convoys were on the move back and were being blasted from the air by the unopposed Luftwaffe, he should sit by the side of the open road, wearing his red banded cap, to steady the morale of men who had then no chance of hitting back at the enemy. Unorthodox no doubt, but here was a man indeed. Throughout the whole campaign and later when he commended the 3rd division in New Guinea and later still when with the rank of Lieutenant-General he became a Corps Commander in New Guinea and Bouganville, it was at all times characteristic of him that he should see for himself the situation in the forward areas. He dealt personally with his subordinate commanders whenever it was possible to do so. No one says his G.S.O. 1. understood better than he did the importance of front line troops seeing their G.O.C. frequently, and knowing that he was aware of and prepared to share their hardships and dangers. He took many risks that he should not have taken, exhausted himself physically and mentally times without number, and considered himself not at all in order to secure the success of his operations. Finally, in Bouganville, he brought his campaign to a victorious conclusion and accepted the personal surrender of the Japanese Commander. Savige is known as one of Australia’s most human military leaders, but let no one believe that he did not ask and receive the utmost of his men. He trained them in a hard school but he was ever conscious of their needs and observant and thoughtful of their welfare. Fearless and untiring under conditions which brought younger men down, he asked nothing that he was not himself prepared to give and do. The close of the Second World War left him with the same brave heart; but a vitality greatly impaired. He was called up again and again to perform important national tasks, notably that of Co-ordinator of Demobilisation and Dispersal. But his interest in Legacy never flagged it was in fact more personal than ever, for under his command many junior legatees, sons of former comrades had proved themselves worthy of their Fathers in war and in peace. In the bearing and achievements of the young men of the Second A.I.F. he took a particular and justifiable pride. He applied himself to the Extension of Legacy to areas where it had not previously been practicable to operate. His record of service and close personal contact with the men of both wars made him a most welcome pioneer and many new Clubs and Groups resulted from his efforts. He founded, and I doubt whether any one else could have done so, the Club in the great Capital of our Empire. His reputation and obvious sincerity surmounted obstacles that might well have daunted lesser man. Legacy’s debt to him visibly increased. But he was ever a simple man, with a great love and understanding of his fellow men and a true Legatee at heart. Much that he did will never be known or recognised, save by those who benefitted. His service in Legacy ranged from the humble kitchen of cottage and farm to our representation in Westminster Abbey itself. A knighthood set the seal upon an outstanding career. None the less when upon the death of Field Marshall Sir Thomas Blamey, Lieut. General Sir Stanley Savige became the Patron of the Melbourne Club, he retained at his own express desire, the title of Legatee Savige, and when on that final day we bade him farewell, when the Flags he had served so well were lowered and the guns which had formed a grim final salute, it was apparent to all who had eyes to see that this great and simple man had won such a place in the hearts and affection of his fellow country men as is given to few men indeed. From the packed Cathedral, escorted by his fellow Generals, followed by men of his own Units, by Legatees and a great company of others who had cause to honour and esteem him, he made his last journey. But that is not the end. His voice and presence are lost to us but his memory and inspiration must ever remain. As he has bequeathed to the National War Memorial yonder his diaries, records and battle plans, so he has bequeathed to us his fellow Legatees his greatest achievement and his trust, Legacy itself. Never was the Torch passed by worthier hands. Now it is ours to hold it high. Whatever material memorial the future many hold for him, Legacy owes its Founder a livelier recompense. It is within our power to implement what I believe to be his greatest wish, that Legacy and its ideal of comradeship and service shall flourish and endure. Let each one of us then resolve that we shall, within our Clubs, in all tasks to which we are assigned, both great and small, keep in our minds the life and spirit of Stanley George Savige, so that we may be proud at all times to say of Legacy to those who follow after - “If you would see his memorial - Look around you”.The tribute to Stanley Savige shows how greatly he was regarded by the Legatees.Off white quarto paper with black type, address given about Stan Savige to the Canberra Conference, x 12 pages.savige, speech, obituary

A copy of an address given at a Foundation Day Luncheon by a long standing Legatee and past President Legatee Rob Allison. He had joined Legacy in 1950, and he comments that only 5 members remain active that were with him in 1950. In 1950 they were all posted as member of various committees, he got Welfare and Friday night girls' classes. There were 9 boys' classes throughout Melbourne, and girls' twice a week at Legacy Headquarters at 24 Market St. There were 230 active members and each legatee had 4 or 5 families with children. He mentions that in 1950 the President was 62 years old but only 5 years after the end of the war, the tide had begun to turn towards the 39ers. (He called the older legatees '1914ers' or 'the Bow and Arrow boys'). He applauded the 'founding fathers' for limiting the numbers of members, in 1929 it was 230 and in 1959 a limit of 300. They used a classification method to classify the members so they had a diverse range of skills and community representation. Areas were: Production, Distribution, Services Public Authority, Services Other, and Board List. The President had a Secret Committee of 3, no one knew who was on the committee, even those members didn't know the identity of the other 2. This committee vetted the background and integrity of new members. In 1950 the budget was £27,000 plus a capital budget of £3,500. Legatee Allison tells a good story of his induction into Legacy, including his wife joining other Legatees wives in fundraising. In 1951 Comradeship meetings moved to Thursday nights at the instigation of Burt Nathan. 'Birthday boy' invitations started in 1958 when John Cooper was Chairman of the Comradeship. After some years of discussion the first paid Social Worker was employed in 1953 and as a result her efforts the first Senior Widows' Group got underway. Until the 1950s Legacy had always found the money it required, from big companies, wealthy members of the community, Estates, or Trusts. In 1951 it tried to copy a Sydney Legacy idea (Certificate of Adoption Plan) and called it 'The Endowment Scheme'. Other fundraisers included films, premiere showing and musicals were very much a part of the social life of Legatees. One premiere show in 1952, 'The Greatest Show on Earth' was sold at £100 a double. In 1959 Sir Frank and Lady Tait were kind enough for give us a premiere of 'My Fair Lady'. As the 50s progressed cash flow was not enough and it was decided in 1957 to have the first public appeal (he says 1957 but it was 1956). The first Badge day was 1958 (according to this account). He says it grossed £21,000 (net £17,000). And the Legacy story was becoming better known. 'Legacy has never been a one man band. The strength has been in the resourceful ability of those of its members.' He was well placed to tell the story of the donation towards Dureau House. BG Corporation in New York used 'Brown and Dureau' as agents in Melbourne for their spark plug manufacturing (for the American aircraft based in Australia during the war). A royalty of two shillings and sixpence was agreed. The entrepreneur President of BG Corporation was Richard Goldsmith. L/ Grat Grattan had a friend Mr Edwards who was managing director at Brown and Dureau and heard of the desire by Goldsmith to leave a permanent memorial to ex-servicemen in Australia (Children's Hospital was considered). Grat took Edwards to Market St and showed him the inadequacy of the building. It was agreed if Melbourne Legacy could come up with a purchased building in 10 days they would get the money needed. The property purchased was 'Storey Hall' in Swanston St (also called Hibernian Hall in other documents). After the war it turned out not to be suitable and a new building was required. The speaker is identified as Rob Allison based on two things; at one stage he refers to himself as 'Rob' and this copy of the speech has been faxed to Legacy from the offices of John Allison Monkhouse. Another copy of this address has been located with the date of September 1988 that was filed with information on Past Presidents and the lives prominent legatees. The notation H59 in black pen shows that it was part of the archive project that was trying to capture the history of Legacy. A record of Legatee Rob Allison speaking at a Legacy luncheon about significant events since he joined in 1950. Speakers at Legacy luncheons were from very different walks of life and the subjects spoken on were many and varied. Foundation Day was celebrated with a special luncheon.White A4 photocopy with black type x 8 pages of an address about Legacy history written in 1987.Handwritten H59 in black pen. history, speech, foundation day, past presidents, dureau house, rob allison