Alec Craig was elected to the Barkly Ward seat on the Bendigo City Council in March 1954 after the resignation of Cr J A Michelsen. He became Mayor in 1956 and served from 1956 -57, 1963 - 64 and 1973 -74. Councillor Craig first posited the idea of Hargreaves Street becoming a shopping mall but retired from council in 1976 before the idea was executed. Alec Craig was the foundation President of the Provincial cities and Town Association of Victoria and President of the Bendigo Base Hospital in 1973. He was awarded an O.B.E. in 1973 for outstanding public service. Grace Adeline Craig was a respected teacher at Bendigo Girl's School and Bendigo High School.0383.1 Three fold voting pamphlet with photo of Councillor Craig on front cover. Inside is a printed letter to Mr and Mrs Ratepayer promoting Councillor Craig's past achievements. 0383.2 How to vote flyer for Councillor Craig. Printed on pink paper. 0383.3 Vote 1 Craig poster. Two colour print on cream paper. Edges missing.mayor craig, mayoress craig, councillor alec craig, grace adeline craig

Prior to the election of female Councillors and Mayors in the 1960’s, the Lady Mayoress role was one of the few ways women could be active in civic life. Mayoresses made important contributions to their local communities through their charity work and as ambassadors for their region on a state and at times, international level. They also undertook Mayoral duties on occasions when their husband was unavailable. Mayoress Craig was born Grace Adeline and was a highly respected teacher at Bendigo Girl's School and Bendigo High School. Grace Craig was the first lady to have an official part in the traditional induction of Mayor ceremony. Framed, oval photographic studio portrait. Hand coloured detail.Mrs A.S. Craig / Mayoress 1956 - 57 / 1963 - 64 / Eric (? aslington )grace adeline, mayoress craig, mayor craig, washington photographer, city of bendigo, city of greater bendigo portraits, lansell pendant