Local newspaper article calling for a new Heidelberg City library. Eventually the library in the basement of the Heidelberg Town Hall was re-established in a purpose built building. The Ivanhoe Library opened in 1965. This library is part of the Heidelberg Regional Library which also served Eltham and which also had need for a new dedicated library. The Heidelberg Regional Library later evolved into the Yarra Plenty Regional Library. Source: Probably The Heidelberg NewsDigital file only of copy provided on loanheidelberg city library, ivanhoe library, yarra plenty regional library, libraries

The Eltham Library was located at the southern end of the newly constructed southern wing of the Shire Offices at 895 Main Road. The first dedicated library in the shire was the Children's Library built by the Eltham War Memorial Trust (now the Eltham War Memorial Hall). Funds were raised by volunteers to purchase books, the land and construct the building. This library initially opened in the Eltham Public Hall on the corner of Main Road and Arthur Street around 1948. The Children’s Library building was opened in 1961 but the transfer to the Eltham Council of the War Memorial Trust land and buildings in 1965 saw the closure of the children's library, which held over 2,000 books that were then transferred to all the schools in the shire which had participated in the monthly book exchange of boxes of books by use of the railways, bus companies and private cars. In late 1966 the children’s library service was integrated into the Heideberg Regional Library Service and the building was officially renamed the Eltham War Memorial Hall. The Brinkkotter house in Dudley Street became the first of the general library services in Eltham with shelving from the old Heidelberg City Library, staff borrowed form the Heidelberg Library and some use of the 1941 Shire Office in Main Road. By 1971 the 1964 Shire Office had the southern extension added and the Library was located on the lower level with Engineering and Planning on the level above. By 1986 this library was experiencing overcrowding from lack of space and equipment needs. With Federal Government assistance, Council was able to design and build a new library which was located in the Eltham Common and opened in May 1994.Background workings for the funding of a Public Hall at Eltham. The funding was provided by public subscription and the money loaned to Council to build the hall. The hall was part of the new Eltham Shire offices located at the corner of Main Road and Arthur Street. A similar funding approach was used a few years later to provide for the Eltham War Memorial located on the opposite side of Main Road.Printed card 10.5 x 15.7 cmeltham library, eltham library opening, eltham shire council, opening ceremony, r.j. hamer, shire of eltham

Launch of "Pioneers and Painters: One Hundred years of Eltham and its Shire" by Alan Marshall. The history was commissioned by the Shire of Eltham and published as part of the Shire of Eltham centenary celebrations. Mary Stansfield, wife of Peter Stansfield (ex Chief Librarian Heidelberg Regional Library and Miss Jean Truebridge, (Deputy Librarian, Heidelberg Regional Library). In November Miss Truebridge was appointed Chief Librarian at the City of Heidelberg municipal library. This photo forms part of a collection of photographs gathered by the Shire of Eltham for their centenary project book, "Pioneers and Painters: 100 years of the Shire of Eltham" by Alan Marshall (1971). The collection of over 500 images is held in partnership between Eltham District Historical Society and Yarra Plenty Regional Library (Eltham Library) and is now formally known as 'The Shire of Eltham Pioneers Photograph Collection.' It is significant in being the first community sourced collection representing the places and people of the Shire's first one hundred years.Digital imagesepp, shire of eltham pioneers photograph collection, shire of eltham, shire of eltham centenary, pioneers and painters, book launch, peter stansfield, heidelberg regional library, jean truebridge, mary stansfield

The new Eltham Library was opened 22 May 1994 and celebrates its 30th anniversay in 2024. This audio recording, presented by Harry Gilham, President of Eltham District Historical Society at the time of the opening is a summarised history of the Eltham Library service to 1994. Eltham Library Service 1930s - 1994 Originally collated by Harry Gilham, President, Eltham District Historical Society Inc (1993-2009) (edited 2022) In the Eltham township area, in the early 1930s, library books for adults were available from E J Andrew's newsagency in Main Road. In the newsagency come haberdashery, some shelves were set aside for a lending library of adults' books. In 1935, Mr & Mrs JC Rains purchased the newsagency and continued the lending service until the late 1940s. At this time the business was extended from haberdashery to sell ladies' and men's clothing. The library section was discontinued. In the 1930s a mobile book library was also run by a Mr Foster of Bible Street, Eltham. In the 1950s adult books were available from racks in the foyer of the Eltham Shire Offices which was then located beside the Eltham Hall on the comer of Arthur Street and Main Road. In the early 1950s a referendum of ratepayers was called to seek public opinion on the issue of raising money for a public library for which the rates would have to be increased - the motion was defeated. On 11 November 1965 Eltham Shire Council, in conjunction with the City of Heidelberg and the Shire of Diamond Valley, met to form the Heidelberg Regional Library Service. Eltham was represented by Councillors Charis Pelling and John Lewis. The first library service for the Shire of Eltham from this group came in the shape of a bookmobile van which had, amongst others, a central stopover near the Shillinglaw trees outside the newly opened Shire offices at 895 Main Road, the original site of Shillinglaw Cottage and the former Shillinglaw farm. Present-day Wingrove Park was another stopover and the many recorded requests for this service can be read as denoting the areas of population or gathering points at that period throughout the Shire. 1968 saw the Shire convert the ‘Brinkkotter’ house in Dudley Street to house both adult and children's books. This library was originally staffed from the City of Heidelberg Library and records of committee meetings range from borrowing Heidelberg's old library shelving to trying to increase the Government's subsidy to a dollar for dollar basis. Book loans in the period 1966-67 totalled 30,400 and the following year ran to 52,113. With 2 books plus 1 paperback the limit per person, it was overcrowded and unable to house the range of other services which had become common library stock. Planning to extend the Shire Offices by the addition of the south wing was an opportunity to re-house the Shire's Library. The opening of the library in the extension was carried out on 17th August 1971 by the Hon R J Hamer ED, MP, Chief Secretary of Victoria. Cr Geoffrey Dreverman officiated as the Shire President. The Heidelberg Regional Library Service continued until September 1985 when it disbanded. On 21 November 1985 the Yarra Plenty Regional Library Service was established. At that time Eltham was represented by Councillors Mary Grant and Robert Manuell. By 1987, over-crowding of the Eltham Library and an inability to house the range of other services yet again rose to prominence. At a Council meeting held on 1 June 1987, the Councillors supported a resolution which threatened to close the library on 30 September 1987. Council's frustration arose from yet another re-run of the annual State Government versus Council Library funding and records show first arose in Eltham Council in 1967 with the Government of 1he day. After prolonged public anger and petitions the motion to close the library was rescinded in August 1987. Council, considering the community's concern, set up a ‘Library Review Working Party’ which a year later became the Library Occasional Committee with direct access to Council. This Committee investigated the workings of the 386 square metre library and found inadequate space for storage and display, lack of equipment, out-of-date furniture together with an increasing patronage which resulted in queues of borrowers becoming longer no matter when the library was open. Community consultation took the form of 1,000 questionnaires sent to users and non-users along with noticeboard reminders of what was planned. Council developed a strategy to set aside capital funds from 1988 on an annual basis so that preliminary planning and consultative expenses could be met, and construction could be completed early 1997. The Committee visited metropolitan libraries which were catering for a similar population as was projected for Eltham. Australia-wide Federal Government funding grants under the Local Capital Works Program became available from October 1992 for community projects endorsed by local Councils. The Eltham Council submitted a proposal, based on library findings and requirements accumulated by the Library Occasional Committee, to the Federal Grants Committee to build a new Eltham Library. The Federal Grants Committee supported the funding request allowing commencement of the library project three years earlier than planned. With finance finalised, the Council set up its Eltham Library Re-development Special Committee which was given the task of overseeing what could be the last major expansion of the Shire's Library Service as Eltham's population nears its projected maximum. The new library was designed by Gregory Burgess and Peter Ryan of Gregory Burgess Pty Ltd. Construction of the library commenced in 1993 and was officially opened May 22nd, 1994. The library building was designed to reflect its parkland setting. External features include: the roof which includes interesting aspects when viewed from Main Road; verandahs which provide ramp access and give a sheltered entrance to the building; walls which feature locally made mudbricks, conventional bricks and copper panels; and space for an outdoor courtyard/reading area which will be developed later. Internally there are several features. The building includes a foyer with a fireplace suitable for displays including artwork, a community multi-purpose room suitable for meetings or functions and an outdoor cafeteria. The ceilings are lined with Victorian Ash. The shapes for the ceiling give a free-flowing form to the building. Brush Box has been used for the circulation and information desks. The tree trunk columns are Grey lronbark from New South Wales. Arches and various-shaped windows add interest to the internal structure. The carpet design reflects the Eltham environment and compliments the natural colours and timbers used in the building. Tiles by artist Felix Bosari feature in the building and additional art by local artists added externally and internally to the building. Since 1994 the library has undergone a major extension to cater for children’s services and others. See also EDHS_02111Digital file only recorded from Audio Cassette tape on loan Converted to MP3 file; 11.1MB, 0:08:49eltham library, opening, harry gilham, harry gilham collection, 1994, audio cassette, audio recording

Designed by multi-award-winning architect, Gregory Burgess, for which he won the 1995 Royal Australian Institute of architects (Vic.) Merit Award in the New Institutional category. Eltham Library Service 1930s - 1994 Originally collated by Harry Gilham, President, Eltham District Historical Society Inc (1993-2009) (edited 2022) In the Eltham township area, in the early 1930s, library books for adults were available from E J Andrew's newsagency in Main Road. In the newsagency cum haberdashery, some shelves were set aside for a lending library of adults' books. In 1935, Mr & Mrs JC Rains purchased the newsagency and continued the lending service until the late 1940s. At this time the business was extended from haberdashery to sell ladies' and men's clothing. The library section was discontinued. In the 1930s a mobile book library was also run by a Mr Foster of Bible Street, Eltham. In the 1950s adult books were available from racks in the foyer of the Eltham Shire Offices which was then located beside the Eltham Hall on the comer of Arthur Street and Main Road. In the early 1950s a referendum of ratepayers was called to seek public opinion on the issue of raising money for a public library for which the rates would have to be increased - the motion was defeated. On 11 November 1965 Eltham Shire Council, in conjunction with the City of Heidelberg and the Shire of Diamond Valley, met to form the Heidelberg Regional Library Service. Eltham was represented by Councillors Charis Pelling and John Lewis. The first library service for the Shire of Eltham from this group came in the shape of a bookmobile van which had, amongst others, a central stopover near the Shillinglaw trees outside the newly opened Shire offices at 895 Main Road, the original site of Shillinglaw Cottage and the former Shillinglaw farm. Present-day Wingrove Park was another stopover and the many recorded requests for this service can be read as denoting the areas of population or gathering points at that period throughout the Shire. 1968 saw the Shire convert the ‘Brinkkotter’ house in Dudley Street to house both adult and children's books. This library was originally staffed from the City of Heidelberg Library and records of committee meetings range from borrowing Heidelberg's old library shelving to trying to increase the Government's subsidy to a dollar for dollar basis. Book loans in the period 1966-67 totalled 30,400 and the following year ran to 52,113. With 2 books plus 1 paperback the limit per person, it was overcrowded and unable to house the range of other services which had become common library stock. Planning to extend the Shire Offices by the addition of the south wing was an opportunity to re-house the Shire's Library. The opening of the library in the extension was carried out on 17th August 1971 by the Hon R J Hamer ED, MP, Chief Secretary of Victoria. Cr Geoffrey Dreverman officiated as the Shire President. The Heidelberg Regional Library Service continued until September 1985 when it disbanded. On 21 November 1985 the Yarra Plenty Regional Library Service was established. At that time Eltham was represented by Councillors Mary Grant and Robert Manuell. By 1987, over-crowding of the Eltham Library and an inability to house the range of other services yet again rose to prominence. At a Council meeting held on 1 June 1987, the Councillors supported a resolution which threatened to close the library on 30 September 1987. Council's frustration arose from yet another re-run of the annual State Government versus Council Library funding and records show first arose in Eltham Council in 1967 with the Government of 1he day. After prolonged public anger and petitions the motion to close the library was rescinded in August 1987. Council, considering the community's concern, set up a ‘Library Review Working Party’ which a year later became the Library Occasional Committee with direct access to Council. This Committee investigated the workings of the 386 square metre library and found inadequate space for storage and display, lack of equipment, out-of-date furniture together with an increasing patronage which resulted in queues of borrowers becoming longer no matter when the library was open. Community consultation took the form of 1,000 questionnaires sent to users and non-users along with noticeboard reminders of what was planned. Council developed a strategy to set aside capital funds from 1988 on an annual basis so that preliminary planning and consultative expenses could be met, and construction could be completed early 1997. The Committee visited metropolitan libraries which were catering for a similar population as was projected for Eltham. Australia-wide Federal Government funding grants under the Local Capital Works Program became available from October 1992 for community projects endorsed by local Councils. The Eltham Council submitted a proposal, based on library findings and requirements accumulated by the Library Occasional Committee, to the Federal Grants Committee to build a new Eltham Library. The Federal Grants Committee supported the funding request allowing commencement of the library project three years earlier than planned. With finance finalised, the Council set up its Eltham Library Re-development Special Committee which was given the task of overseeing what could be the last major expansion of the Shire's Library Service as Eltham's population nears its projected maximum. The new library was designed by Gregory Burgess and Peter Ryan of Gregory Burgess Pty Ltd. Construction of the library commenced in 1993 and was officially opened May 22nd, 1994. The library building was designed to reflect its parkland setting. External features include: the roof which includes interesting aspects when viewed from Main Road; verandahs which provide ramp access and give a sheltered entrance to the building; walls which feature locally made mudbricks, conventional bricks and copper panels; and space for an outdoor courtyard/reading area which will be developed later. Internally there are several features. The building includes a foyer with a fireplace suitable for displays including artwork, a community multi-purpose room suitable for meetings or functions and an outdoor cafeteria. The ceilings are lined with Victorian Ash. The shapes for the ceiling give a free-flowing form to the building. Brush Box has been used for the circulation and information desks. The tree trunk columns are Grey lronbark from New South Wales. Arches and various-shaped windows add interest to the internal structure. The carpet design reflects the Eltham environment and compliments the natural colours and timbers used in the building. Tiles by artist Felix Bosari feature in the building and additional art by local artists added externally and internally to the building. Since 1994 the library has undergone a major extension to cater for children’s services and others. See also EDHS_02111jim connor collection, eltham, eltham library, panther place

Designed by multi-award winning architect, Gregory Burgess, for which he won the 1995 Royal Australian Insitute of architects (Vic.) Merit Award in the New Institutional category. Eltham Library Service 1930s - 1994 Originally collated by Harry Gilham, President, Eltham District Historical Society Inc (1993-2009) (edited 2022) In the Eltham township area, in the early 1930s, library books for adults were available from E J Andrew's newsagency in Main Road. In the newsagency cum haberdashery, some shelves were set aside for a lending library of adults' books. In 1935, Mr & Mrs JC Rains purchased the newsagency and continued the lending service until the late 1940s. At this time the business was extended from haberdashery to sell ladies' and men's clothing. The library section was discontinued. In the 1930s a mobile book library was also run by a Mr Foster of Bible Street, Eltham. In the 1950s adult books were available from racks in the foyer of the Eltham Shire Offices which was then located beside the Eltham Hall on the comer of Arthur Street and Main Road. In the early 1950s a referendum of ratepayers was called to seek public opinion on the issue of raising money for a public library for which the rates would have to be increased - the motion was defeated. On 11 November 1965 Eltham Shire Council, in conjunction with the City of Heidelberg and the Shire of Diamond Valley, met to form the Heidelberg Regional Library Service. Eltham was represented by Councillors Charis Pelling and John Lewis. The first library service for the Shire of Eltham from this group came in the shape of a bookmobile van which had, amongst others, a central stopover near the Shillinglaw trees outside the newly opened Shire offices at 895 Main Road, the original site of Shillinglaw Cottage and the former Shillinglaw farm. Present-day Wingrove Park was another stopover and the many recorded requests for this service can be read as denoting the areas of population or gathering points at that period throughout the Shire. 1968 saw the Shire convert the ‘Brinkkotter’ house in Dudley Street to house both adult and children's books. This library was originally staffed from the City of Heidelberg Library and records of committee meetings range from borrowing Heidelberg's old library shelving to trying to increase the Government's subsidy to a dollar for dollar basis. Book loans in the period 1966-67 totalled 30,400 and the following year ran to 52,113. With 2 books plus 1 paperback the limit per person, it was overcrowded and unable to house the range of other services which had become common library stock. Planning to extend the Shire Offices by the addition of the south wing was an opportunity to re-house the Shire's Library. The opening of the library in the extension was carried out on 17th August 1971 by the Hon R J Hamer ED, MP, Chief Secretary of Victoria. Cr Geoffrey Dreverman officiated as the Shire President. The Heidelberg Regional Library Service continued until September 1985 when it disbanded. On 21 November 1985 the Yarra Plenty Regional Library Service was established. At that time Eltham was represented by Councillors Mary Grant and Robert Manuell. By 1987, over-crowding of the Eltham Library and an inability to house the range of other services yet again rose to prominence. At a Council meeting held on 1 June 1987, the Councillors supported a resolution which threatened to close the library on 30 September 1987. Council's frustration arose from yet another re-run of the annual State Government versus Council Library funding and records show first arose in Eltham Council in 1967 with the Government of 1he day. After prolonged public anger and petitions the motion to close the library was rescinded in August 1987. Council, considering the community's concern, set up a ‘Library Review Working Party’ which a year later became the Library Occasional Committee with direct access to Council. This Committee investigated the workings of the 386 square metre library and found inadequate space for storage and display, lack of equipment, out-of-date furniture together with an increasing patronage which resulted in queues of borrowers becoming longer no matter when the library was open. Community consultation took the form of 1,000 questionnaires sent to users and non-users along with noticeboard reminders of what was planned. Council developed a strategy to set aside capital funds from 1988 on an annual basis so that preliminary planning and consultative expenses could be met, and construction could be completed early 1997. The Committee visited metropolitan libraries which were catering for a similar population as was projected for Eltham. Australia-wide Federal Government funding grants under the Local Capital Works Program became available from October 1992 for community projects endorsed by local Councils. The Eltham Council submitted a proposal, based on library findings and requirements accumulated by the Library Occasional Committee, to the Federal Grants Committee to build a new Eltham Library. The Federal Grants Committee supported the funding request allowing commencement of the library project three years earlier than planned. With finance finalised, the Council set up its Eltham Library Re-development Special Committee which was given the task of overseeing what could be the last major expansion of the Shire's Library Service as Eltham's population nears its projected maximum. The new library was designed by Gregory Burgess and Peter Ryan of Gregory Burgess Pty Ltd. Construction of the library commenced in 1993 and was officially opened May 22nd, 1994. The library building was designed to reflect its parkland setting. External features include: the roof which includes interesting aspects when viewed from Main Road; verandahs which provide ramp access and give a sheltered entrance to the building; walls which feature locally made mudbricks, conventional bricks and copper panels; and space for an outdoor courtyard/reading area which will be developed later. Internally there are several features. The building includes a foyer with a fireplace suitable for displays including artwork, a community multi-purpose room suitable for meetings or functions and an outdoor cafeteria. The ceilings are lined with Victorian Ash. The shapes for the ceiling give a free-flowing form to the building. Brush Box has been used for the circulation and information desks. The tree trunk columns are Grey lronbark from New South Wales. Arches and various-shaped windows add interest to the internal structure. The carpet design reflects the Eltham environment and compliments the natural colours and timbers used in the building. Tiles by artist Felix Bosari feature in the building and additional art by local artists added externally and internally to the building. Since 1994 the library has undergone a major extension to cater for children’s services and others. See also EDHS_02111jim connor collection, eltham, eltham library, panther place

Designed by multi-award winning architect, Gregory Burgess, for which he won the 1995 Royal Australian Insitute of architects (Vic.) Merit Award in the New Institutional category. Eltham Library Service 1930s - 1994 Originally collated by Harry Gilham, President, Eltham District Historical Society Inc (1993-2009) (edited 2022) In the Eltham township area, in the early 1930s, library books for adults were available from E J Andrew's newsagency in Main Road. In the newsagency cum haberdashery, some shelves were set aside for a lending library of adults' books. In 1935, Mr & Mrs JC Rains purchased the newsagency and continued the lending service until the late 1940s. At this time the business was extended from haberdashery to sell ladies' and men's clothing. The library section was discontinued. In the 1930s a mobile book library was also run by a Mr Foster of Bible Street, Eltham. In the 1950s adult books were available from racks in the foyer of the Eltham Shire Offices which was then located beside the Eltham Hall on the comer of Arthur Street and Main Road. In the early 1950s a referendum of ratepayers was called to seek public opinion on the issue of raising money for a public library for which the rates would have to be increased - the motion was defeated. On 11 November 1965 Eltham Shire Council, in conjunction with the City of Heidelberg and the Shire of Diamond Valley, met to form the Heidelberg Regional Library Service. Eltham was represented by Councillors Charis Pelling and John Lewis. The first library service for the Shire of Eltham from this group came in the shape of a bookmobile van which had, amongst others, a central stopover near the Shillinglaw trees outside the newly opened Shire offices at 895 Main Road, the original site of Shillinglaw Cottage and the former Shillinglaw farm. Present-day Wingrove Park was another stopover and the many recorded requests for this service can be read as denoting the areas of population or gathering points at that period throughout the Shire. 1968 saw the Shire convert the ‘Brinkkotter’ house in Dudley Street to house both adult and children's books. This library was originally staffed from the City of Heidelberg Library and records of committee meetings range from borrowing Heidelberg's old library shelving to trying to increase the Government's subsidy to a dollar for dollar basis. Book loans in the period 1966-67 totalled 30,400 and the following year ran to 52,113. With 2 books plus 1 paperback the limit per person, it was overcrowded and unable to house the range of other services which had become common library stock. Planning to extend the Shire Offices by the addition of the south wing was an opportunity to re-house the Shire's Library. The opening of the library in the extension was carried out on 17th August 1971 by the Hon R J Hamer ED, MP, Chief Secretary of Victoria. Cr Geoffrey Dreverman officiated as the Shire President. The Heidelberg Regional Library Service continued until September 1985 when it disbanded. On 21 November 1985 the Yarra Plenty Regional Library Service was established. At that time Eltham was represented by Councillors Mary Grant and Robert Manuell. By 1987, over-crowding of the Eltham Library and an inability to house the range of other services yet again rose to prominence. At a Council meeting held on 1 June 1987, the Councillors supported a resolution which threatened to close the library on 30 September 1987. Council's frustration arose from yet another re-run of the annual State Government versus Council Library funding and records show first arose in Eltham Council in 1967 with the Government of 1he day. After prolonged public anger and petitions the motion to close the library was rescinded in August 1987. Council, considering the community's concern, set up a ‘Library Review Working Party’ which a year later became the Library Occasional Committee with direct access to Council. This Committee investigated the workings of the 386 square metre library and found inadequate space for storage and display, lack of equipment, out-of-date furniture together with an increasing patronage which resulted in queues of borrowers becoming longer no matter when the library was open. Community consultation took the form of 1,000 questionnaires sent to users and non-users along with noticeboard reminders of what was planned. Council developed a strategy to set aside capital funds from 1988 on an annual basis so that preliminary planning and consultative expenses could be met, and construction could be completed early 1997. The Committee visited metropolitan libraries which were catering for a similar population as was projected for Eltham. Australia-wide Federal Government funding grants under the Local Capital Works Program became available from October 1992 for community projects endorsed by local Councils. The Eltham Council submitted a proposal, based on library findings and requirements accumulated by the Library Occasional Committee, to the Federal Grants Committee to build a new Eltham Library. The Federal Grants Committee supported the funding request allowing commencement of the library project three years earlier than planned. With finance finalised, the Council set up its Eltham Library Re-development Special Committee which was given the task of overseeing what could be the last major expansion of the Shire's Library Service as Eltham's population nears its projected maximum. The new library was designed by Gregory Burgess and Peter Ryan of Gregory Burgess Pty Ltd. Construction of the library commenced in 1993 and was officially opened May 22nd, 1994. The library building was designed to reflect its parkland setting. External features include: the roof which includes interesting aspects when viewed from Main Road; verandahs which provide ramp access and give a sheltered entrance to the building; walls which feature locally made mudbricks, conventional bricks and copper panels; and space for an outdoor courtyard/reading area which will be developed later. Internally there are several features. The building includes a foyer with a fireplace suitable for displays including artwork, a community multi-purpose room suitable for meetings or functions and an outdoor cafeteria. The ceilings are lined with Victorian Ash. The shapes for the ceiling give a free-flowing form to the building. Brush Box has been used for the circulation and information desks. The tree trunk columns are Grey lronbark from New South Wales. Arches and various-shaped windows add interest to the internal structure. The carpet design reflects the Eltham environment and compliments the natural colours and timbers used in the building. Tiles by artist Felix Bosari feature in the building and additional art by local artists added externally and internally to the building. Since 1994 the library has undergone a major extension to cater for children’s services and others. See also EDHS_02111jim connor collection, eltham, eltham library, panther place

Photo taken by Nathan Islip who at the time was studying Architecture at the University of Melbourne. During his experience year he worked as a builder's labourer on the new Eltham Library construction project. Eltham Library Service 1930s - 1994 Originally collated by Harry Gilham, President, Eltham District Historical Society Inc (1993-2009) (edited 2022) In the Eltham township area, in the early 1930s, library books for adults were available from E J Andrew's newsagency in Main Road. In the newsagency cum haberdashery, some shelves were set aside for a lending library of adults' books. In 1935, Mr & Mrs JC Rains purchased the newsagency and continued the lending service until the late 1940s. At this time the business was extended from haberdashery to sell ladies' and men's clothing. The library section was discontinued. In the 1930s a mobile book library was also run by a Mr Foster of Bible Street, Eltham. In the 1950s adult books were available from racks in the foyer of the Eltham Shire Offices which was then located beside the Eltham Hall on the comer of Arthur Street and Main Road. In the early 1950s a referendum of ratepayers was called to seek public opinion on the issue of raising money for a public library for which the rates would have to be increased - the motion was defeated. On 11 November 1965 Eltham Shire Council, in conjunction with the City of Heidelberg and the Shire of Diamond Valley, met to form the Heidelberg Regional Library Service. Eltham was represented by Councillors Charis Pelling and John Lewis. The first library service for the Shire of Eltham from this group came in the shape of a bookmobile van which had, amongst others, a central stopover near the Shillinglaw trees outside the newly opened Shire offices at 895 Main Road, the original site of Shillinglaw Cottage and the former Shillinglaw farm. Present-day Wingrove Park was another stopover and the many recorded requests for this service can be read as denoting the areas of population or gathering points at that period throughout the Shire. 1968 saw the Shire convert the ‘Brinkkotter’ house in Dudley Street to house both adult and children's books. This library was originally staffed from the City of Heidelberg Library and records of committee meetings range from borrowing Heidelberg's old library shelving to trying to increase the Government's subsidy to a dollar for dollar basis. Book loans in the period 1966-67 totalled 30,400 and the following year ran to 52,113. With 2 books plus 1 paperback the limit per person, it was overcrowded and unable to house the range of other services which had become common library stock. Planning to extend the Shire Offices by the addition of the south wing was an opportunity to re-house the Shire's Library. The opening of the library in the extension was carried out on 17th August 1971 by the Hon R J Hamer ED, MP, Chief Secretary of Victoria. Cr Geoffrey Dreverman officiated as the Shire President. The Heidelberg Regional Library Service continued until September 1985 when it disbanded. On 21 November 1985 the Yarra Plenty Regional Library Service was established. At that time Eltham was represented by Councillors Mary Grant and Robert Manuell. By 1987, over-crowding of the Eltham Library and an inability to house the range of other services yet again rose to prominence. At a Council meeting held on 1 June 1987, the Councillors supported a resolution which threatened to close the library on 30 September 1987. Council's frustration arose from yet another re-run of the annual State Government versus Council Library funding and records show first arose in Eltham Council in 1967 with the Government of 1he day. After prolonged public anger and petitions the motion to close the library was rescinded in August 1987. Council, considering the community's concern, set up a ‘Library Review Working Party’ which a year later became the Library Occasional Committee with direct access to Council. This Committee investigated the workings of the 386 square metre library and found inadequate space for storage and display, lack of equipment, out-of-date furniture together with an increasing patronage which resulted in queues of borrowers becoming longer no matter when the library was open. Community consultation took the form of 1,000 questionnaires sent to users and non-users along with noticeboard reminders of what was planned. Council developed a strategy to set aside capital funds from 1988 on an annual basis so that preliminary planning and consultative expenses could be met, and construction could be completed early 1997. The Committee visited metropolitan libraries which were catering for a similar population as was projected for Eltham. Australia-wide Federal Government funding grants under the Local Capital Works Program became available from October 1992 for community projects endorsed by local Councils. The Eltham Council submitted a proposal, based on library findings and requirements accumulated by the Library Occasional Committee, to the Federal Grants Committee to build a new Eltham Library. The Federal Grants Committee supported the funding request allowing commencement of the library project three years earlier than planned. With finance finalised, the Council set up its Eltham Library Re-development Special Committee which was given the task of overseeing what could be the last major expansion of the Shire's Library Service as Eltham's population nears its projected maximum. The new library was designed by Gregory Burgess and Peter Ryan of Gregory Burgess Pty Ltd. Construction of the library commenced in 1993 and was officially opened May 22nd, 1994. The library building was designed to reflect its parkland setting. External features include: the roof which includes interesting aspects when viewed from Main Road; verandahs which provide ramp access and give a sheltered entrance to the building; walls which feature locally made mudbricks, conventional bricks and copper panels; and space for an outdoor courtyard/reading area which will be developed later. Internally there are several features. The building includes a foyer with a fireplace suitable for displays including artwork, a community multi-purpose room suitable for meetings or functions and an outdoor cafeteria. The ceilings are lined with Victorian Ash. The shapes for the ceiling give a free-flowing form to the building. Brush Box has been used for the circulation and information desks. The tree trunk columns are Grey lronbark from New South Wales. Arches and various-shaped windows add interest to the internal structure. The carpet design reflects the Eltham environment and compliments the natural colours and timbers used in the building. Tiles by artist Felix Bosari feature in the building and additional art by local artists added externally and internally to the building. Since 1994 the library has undergone a major extension to cater for children’s services and others. See also EDHS_02111 construction, eltham library

Photo taken by Nathan Islip who at the time was studying Architecture at the University of Melbourne. During his experience year he worked as a builder's labourer on the new Eltham Library construction project. Eltham Library Service 1930s - 1994 Originally collated by Harry Gilham, President, Eltham District Historical Society Inc (1993-2009) (edited 2022) In the Eltham township area, in the early 1930s, library books for adults were available from E J Andrew's newsagency in Main Road. In the newsagency cum haberdashery, some shelves were set aside for a lending library of adults' books. In 1935, Mr & Mrs JC Rains purchased the newsagency and continued the lending service until the late 1940s. At this time the business was extended from haberdashery to sell ladies' and men's clothing. The library section was discontinued. In the 1930s a mobile book library was also run by a Mr Foster of Bible Street, Eltham. In the 1950s adult books were available from racks in the foyer of the Eltham Shire Offices which was then located beside the Eltham Hall on the comer of Arthur Street and Main Road. In the early 1950s a referendum of ratepayers was called to seek public opinion on the issue of raising money for a public library for which the rates would have to be increased - the motion was defeated. On 11 November 1965 Eltham Shire Council, in conjunction with the City of Heidelberg and the Shire of Diamond Valley, met to form the Heidelberg Regional Library Service. Eltham was represented by Councillors Charis Pelling and John Lewis. The first library service for the Shire of Eltham from this group came in the shape of a bookmobile van which had, amongst others, a central stopover near the Shillinglaw trees outside the newly opened Shire offices at 895 Main Road, the original site of Shillinglaw Cottage and the former Shillinglaw farm. Present-day Wingrove Park was another stopover and the many recorded requests for this service can be read as denoting the areas of population or gathering points at that period throughout the Shire. 1968 saw the Shire convert the ‘Brinkkotter’ house in Dudley Street to house both adult and children's books. This library was originally staffed from the City of Heidelberg Library and records of committee meetings range from borrowing Heidelberg's old library shelving to trying to increase the Government's subsidy to a dollar for dollar basis. Book loans in the period 1966-67 totalled 30,400 and the following year ran to 52,113. With 2 books plus 1 paperback the limit per person, it was overcrowded and unable to house the range of other services which had become common library stock. Planning to extend the Shire Offices by the addition of the south wing was an opportunity to re-house the Shire's Library. The opening of the library in the extension was carried out on 17th August 1971 by the Hon R J Hamer ED, MP, Chief Secretary of Victoria. Cr Geoffrey Dreverman officiated as the Shire President. The Heidelberg Regional Library Service continued until September 1985 when it disbanded. On 21 November 1985 the Yarra Plenty Regional Library Service was established. At that time Eltham was represented by Councillors Mary Grant and Robert Manuell. By 1987, over-crowding of the Eltham Library and an inability to house the range of other services yet again rose to prominence. At a Council meeting held on 1 June 1987, the Councillors supported a resolution which threatened to close the library on 30 September 1987. Council's frustration arose from yet another re-run of the annual State Government versus Council Library funding and records show first arose in Eltham Council in 1967 with the Government of 1he day. After prolonged public anger and petitions the motion to close the library was rescinded in August 1987. Council, considering the community's concern, set up a ‘Library Review Working Party’ which a year later became the Library Occasional Committee with direct access to Council. This Committee investigated the workings of the 386 square metre library and found inadequate space for storage and display, lack of equipment, out-of-date furniture together with an increasing patronage which resulted in queues of borrowers becoming longer no matter when the library was open. Community consultation took the form of 1,000 questionnaires sent to users and non-users along with noticeboard reminders of what was planned. Council developed a strategy to set aside capital funds from 1988 on an annual basis so that preliminary planning and consultative expenses could be met, and construction could be completed early 1997. The Committee visited metropolitan libraries which were catering for a similar population as was projected for Eltham. Australia-wide Federal Government funding grants under the Local Capital Works Program became available from October 1992 for community projects endorsed by local Councils. The Eltham Council submitted a proposal, based on library findings and requirements accumulated by the Library Occasional Committee, to the Federal Grants Committee to build a new Eltham Library. The Federal Grants Committee supported the funding request allowing commencement of the library project three years earlier than planned. With finance finalised, the Council set up its Eltham Library Re-development Special Committee which was given the task of overseeing what could be the last major expansion of the Shire's Library Service as Eltham's population nears its projected maximum. The new library was designed by Gregory Burgess and Peter Ryan of Gregory Burgess Pty Ltd. Construction of the library commenced in 1993 and was officially opened May 22nd, 1994. The library building was designed to reflect its parkland setting. External features include: the roof which includes interesting aspects when viewed from Main Road; verandahs which provide ramp access and give a sheltered entrance to the building; walls which feature locally made mudbricks, conventional bricks and copper panels; and space for an outdoor courtyard/reading area which will be developed later. Internally there are several features. The building includes a foyer with a fireplace suitable for displays including artwork, a community multi-purpose room suitable for meetings or functions and an outdoor cafeteria. The ceilings are lined with Victorian Ash. The shapes for the ceiling give a free-flowing form to the building. Brush Box has been used for the circulation and information desks. The tree trunk columns are Grey lronbark from New South Wales. Arches and various-shaped windows add interest to the internal structure. The carpet design reflects the Eltham environment and compliments the natural colours and timbers used in the building. Tiles by artist Felix Bosari feature in the building and additional art by local artists added externally and internally to the building. Since 1994 the library has undergone a major extension to cater for children’s services and others. See also EDHS_02111 construction, eltham library

Rear view of Eltham Library showing loading dock and ramp to the front of the building. Designed by multi-award winning architect, Gregory Burgess, for which he won the 1995 Royal Australian Insitute of architects (Vic.) Merit Award in the New Institutional category. Covered under Heritage Overlay, Nillumbik Planning Scheme. Published: Nillumbik Now and Then /​ Marguerite Marshall 2008; photographs Alan King with Marguerite Marshall.; p183 Award-winning Eltham Library, with its earthy tones blending into the nearby parklands, celebrates some of the best of Eltham’s spirit. Designed by multi-award winning architect, Gregory Burgess, the library at Panther Place, won him the 1995 Royal Australian Institute of Architects (Vic) Merit Award in the New Institutional category.1 The design is typical of Burgess’ work, emphasising natural materials and forms, and the integration of building and site.2 In its distinctive architectural character, Burgess celebrated the spirit of Eltham’s artist/architect Justus Jörgenson and mud-brick builder Alistair Knox. However this library, which opened in 1994, follows decades of efforts to acquire a suitable library for local residents. It was only in 1971 that Eltham acquired its first purpose-built library. In the 1930s books were borrowed from a mobile library run by Mr Foster of Bible Street. From the 1930s to the early 1950s, adults borrowed books from the newsagency and general store in Main Road (still a newsagency) near Arthur Street. As late as the 1950s, adults borrowed books in the shire office foyer, then in Main Road near the corner of Arthur Street.3 In the early 1950s the ratepayers voted for lower rates rather than a library, in a referendum to build a public library financed by higher rates. Children depended on volunteers for their library service until 1966. In 1946 the inaugural meeting of the Eltham War Memorial Trust’s Women’s Auxiliary, decided to support the Trust by raising funds to buy land and build a Children’s Library, Baby Health Centre and other facilities. The auxiliary formed the Children’s Library Committee, which included Mrs Morrison, Mrs Bow and Mrs Currie. They ran a library service in the stage area of the Eltham Hall, at the corner of Arthur Street and Main Road. In 1952 the books were relocated to a room in the newly opened Baby Health Centre on Main Road. Then in 1961, the Children’s Library received its own hall beside the Eltham Pre-School Centre on Main Road. From there, each month, volunteers delivered books to every school in the shire. In 1966 the Children’s Library closed after 17 years of service, following the transfer of the Trust land and buildings to the Shire of Eltham. The books were donated to nine schools in the shire and to Community Aid Abroad. An important boost to the library service came in 1965, when the Heidelberg Regional Library Service was formed by the City of Heidelberg with the Shires of Eltham and Diamond Valley. Its first library service for Eltham Shire was a bookmobile van. Books for children and adults were finally housed in one building in 1966, when the shire converted the Brinkkotter house in Dudley Street, into a library. At last in 1971, the Eltham Library moved to new premises attached to the shire offices near Panther Place. However these were demolished in 1996, by State Government appointed commissioners during council amalgamations. Meanwhile the Heidelberg Regional Library Service was disbanded in 1985 and the Yarra Plenty Regional Library Service was established. The burgeoning population brought pressure for a bigger library. Eltham was one of several municipalities in the 1970s and 1980s, battling with the State Government for adequate funding for public libraries. Funds were so tight, that in 1987 Eltham councillors threatened to close the library. However public petitions persuaded them to set aside funds to replace the cramped library facilities. In 1992 the Federal Government gave $887,496 towards the $3 million cost of the 1560 square metre library.4 The result is a light and spacious building with surrounding verandas, made of sustainable natural materials including earth and recycled and radially sawn timbers. It includes a gallery and function areas. In 2004 Mr Burgess won Australian architecture’s highest accolade: the Royal Australian Institute of Architects Gold Medal. He has received more than forty professional and community awards.This collection of almost 130 photos about places and people within the Shire of Nillumbik, an urban and rural municipality in Melbourne's north, contributes to an understanding of the history of the Shire. Published in 2008 immediately prior to the Black Saturday bushfires of February 7, 2009, it documents sites that were impacted, and in some cases destroyed by the fires. It includes photographs taken especially for the publication, creating a unique time capsule representing the Shire in the early 21st century. It remains the most recent comprehenesive publication devoted to the Shire's history connecting local residents to the past. nillumbik now and then (marshall-king) collection, eltham, eltham library, panther place

Program for the opening of the City of Heidelberg New Central Library 8th October 1965Bruce Morgan was the first Shire Secretary (1964-1983) of the Shire of Diamond Valley. This collection was compiled by his wife, Mavis Morgan, detailing the events they attended in their official capacity7 page brochure with black text and floor plans and coloured image on front pagebruce morgan, mavis morgan, shire of diamond valley, city of heidelberg

Invitation to a Cocktail Party to be held in conjunction with the Official Opening of the Rosanna Branch Library by The Honourable A.J. Hunt, M.L.C., Minister for Local Government, 15th August, 1973. Bruce Morgan was the first Shire Secretary (1964-1983) of the Shire of Diamond Valley. This collection was compiled by his wife, Mavis Morgan, detailing the events they attended in their official capacity.Invitation on cream paper, black textbruce morgan, mavis morgan, shire of diamond valley, city of heidelberg, rosanna library

Digital file only of copy provided on loancity of heidelberg, cr. brian waters, eltham library, heidelberg regional library, heidelberg regional library committee, shire of diamond valley, shire of eltham, yarra plenty regional library

Photocopy from Heidelberg Historian, newsletter of the Heidelberg Historical Society, June 2008 with a summary of the presentation: "The Novel Idea of a library: the history of library services in the City of Heidelberg and Banyule and how we've grown" by Liz Pidgeon, Local History Librarian, Yarra Plenty Regional Library Harry Gilham Folder 834 pagesharry gilham collection, yarra plenty regional library, heidelberg regional library service, liz pidgeon, public library, heidelberg historical society

Newly constructed single span bridge on Main Road (now Lower Plenty Road) crossing the Plenty River at Lower Plenty. Site of Heidelberg Golf Club and Lower Plenty Hotel in the background. This was the boundary between the Shire of Eltham and the City of Heidelberg.This photo forms part of a collection of photographs gathered by the Shire of Eltham for their centenary project book ,"Pioneers and Painters: 100 years of the Shire of Eltham" by Alan Marshall (1971). The collection of over 500 images is held in partnership between Eltham District Historical Society and Yarra Plenty Regional Library (Eltham Library) and is now formally known as 'The Shire of Eltham Pioneers Photograph Collection.' It is significant in being the first community sourced collection representing the places and people of the Shire's first one hundred years.Digital imagesepp, shire of eltham pioneers photograph collection, lower plenty, bridge

Report prepared by Graeme Butler on behalf of City of Heidelberg and Heidelberg Heritage Advisory Committee. Area covered is from Eaglemont in the south to Macleod in the north.This study identifies neighbourhood character, documents past development and the capacity of the environment for future development.Part one of set of three books. Paperback, 189 pages, Illus., maps. 2 copies.Stamps: Yarra Plenty Regional Library Service, and, Withdrawnheidelberg, macleod, heidelberg heritage advisory committee, graeme butler, plenty river, eaglemont

Report prepared by Loder and Bayly and Marilyn McBriar on behalf of City of Heidelberg and Heidelberg Heritage Advisory Committee. Area covered is from Darebin Parklands in the south to Plenty River at Yallambie in the north. Revised 1987.This study identifies neighbourhood character, documents past development and the capacity of the environment for future development with particular emphasis on the river precincts - Plenty River, Yarra River and Darebin Creek.Part three of set of three books. Paperback, 333 pages, Illus., maps. 2 copies.Stamps: Yarra Plenty Regional Library Service, and, Withdrawnheidelberg, macleod, heidelberg heritage advisory committee, marilyn mcbriar, plenty river, yarra river, darebin creek

The Diamond Valley Mirror was a local newspaper in the 1960's. The article is about a large loan that the City of Heidelberg took out to fund civic improvements in the North Riding.The loan was for 50,000 pounds to fund among other things the Greensborough Swimming Pool and the second stage of Diamond Creek Water Supply scheme. It also includes on a second page, the proposed design of the future Greensborough Swimming Pool.A photocopy of a newspaper article from 1961. Nilcity of heidelberg, greensborough swimming pool, diamond creek water supply scheme, civic loans, invanhoe library

A report on the opening of the Greensborough swimming pool in the Plenty River 1937.This pool on the Plenty River still exists today.Article downloaded from Trove (National Library of Australia).greensborough, swimming pools, plenty river, heidelberg city council

Phyllis Catherine Hore (née Kiss) was born in 1918. A Kew resident from 1949, she was elected to Council in 1972, after several attempts, and served for twenty- three years until her death in 1994. A secondary teacher by profession, Cr Hore represented College and Sackville Wards. While a councillor, she was a resident of High and later Pakington Streets. She served on Council committees and was a delegate to the Kew Elder Citizens Association, the Family and Community Services (FACS) Local Consultative Committee, and the Kew Music Centre Board of Management. During her Mayoral year, she was instrumental in memorialising Vance and Nettie Palmer, significant Kew writers and poets, by unveiling a plaque at the Kew Library in the year of the centenary of their births. In May 1994, the Mayor of Kew, Cr Tom Indovino, named a meeting room at Kew Library, the Phyllis Hore Room in recognition of her service to the City. She is buried in the Heidelberg (Warringal) Cemetery. (Source: Chairmen and Mayors of Kew 1960-1994, p. 88)Two colour 'proofs' of mayoral photos of Cr Phyllis Hore, donated by her daughter in 2019cr phyllis hore, mayors of kew (vic)

Mr John Purchase came from Heidelberg, and was dairying on the east side of Melton, on the Footscray road, in the Braybrook Shire. His daughter married Mr Ralph Parkinson, J.P., Mr Purchase sold his farm to the late Sir William Clarke, and then went home to England with his wife; his son, John, stopped in Victoria.Copy of a William John Clarke's purchase of landlocal identities

Early Impressions painters of the Heidelberg School from the National Collection on display at the Ivanhoe Library and Cultural Hub 2025-2027Promotional card printed in colour heidelberg school of painting, ivanhoe library, art exhibitions, banyule city council

Page 1 article about the laying of the foundation stone for the Baby Health Centre by the Governor of Victoria (Sir Dallas Brooks) on Friday, November 24, 1950 (including photograph of Sir Dallas Brooks laying the stone) History of the War Memorial Following the end of the First World War, communities across Victoria and Australia typically erected memorials which were predominantly statues, cenotaphs, avenues of honour and plaques. The Shire of Eltham established the Avenue of Honour at the gateway to the shire as well as an obelisk at the corner of Main Road and Bridge street and the Shire of Eltham War Memorial Tower at Kangaroo Ground. After the Second World War communities once again desired to preserve the memories of those who served and paid the ultimate sacrifice. Resources were scarce so there was a transition away from the traditional style memorials that sprang up post 1918 to one of building facilities that would provide ongoing benefit to the community. Even before the end of the Second World War, the citizens of Eltham began to consider an appropriate form of memorial for those from the area who fought and died in the First and Second World Wars. In 1943 the Eltham Women’s Auxiliary raised funds for the construction of buildings to be established on land to be purchased for the proposed War Memorial. On March 27th, 1945, the Eltham District Progress Association called a meeting of local people who in turn set up and registered the Eltham War Memorial Trust Inc. As a focus for the purpose of the memorial, the newspaper notice read:- ‘Those who have had a member of their family in the fighting services will want to see that the form of a memorial we are concerned with is the one which will be a constant reminder to us of those who fought for us and the little ones for whom they fought and died.’ At that meeting it was decided the Memorial should take the form of a baby health centre along with a creche and children’s library. In late 1945, the newly formed Eltham War Memorial Trust purchased the land at 903-907 Main Road Eltham from Miss Shillinglaw, which once formed part of the Shillinglaw farm on Lot 90 of Holloway’s 1851 “Little Eltham” subdivision. The Governor of Victoria, General Sir Dallas Brooks, laid the foundation stone on November 24th, 1950, in memory of those who fell in the Second World War. The Eltham Infant Welfare Centre was opened November 15th, 1952, the Pre-school on December 1st, 1956, and the Children’s Library in 1961. In late 1966 the children’s library service was integrated into the Heideberg Regional Library Service and the building was officially renamed the Eltham War Memorial Hall. Following the opening of the Eltham Infant Welfare Centre, work began in 1953 planning for the entrance to the grounds, which is signaled by a wrought iron arch entitled “Eltham War Memorial” . In 1954 the Eltham War Memorial Trust decided that a legacy provided by the late Councillor Ernest James Andrew (d. 29 March 1950) in memory of his wife, Mrs. Ellen Andrew (d. 13 July 1946) and who are both buried at Eltham Cemetery, should be used to fund the construction of the entrance. A metal plate inscribed to this effect was attached to the gates. Work on the Memorial Gardens was undertaken throughout the following decade, with a Memorial Forecourt included in the final 1956 plans for the Pre-School Centre. A quote was accepted by the Trust in 1963 for the implementation of a memorial garden, which included grading of a sixty-five foot strip at the rear of the Trust buildings and construction of concrete paths. The stone retaining walls at the front of the site were installed in 1968 when Main Road was widened and it is believed that the Memorial Gates were relocated at that time also. Eltham Senior Citizens Centre In 1964, Eltham Shire Council purchased a section of land from the Trust at the northern end of the site, as a provision for Country Fire Authority buildings. At the same time the Elderly Citizens Club proposed a Senior Citizens Centre on the south western section of the Trust’s property. This was approved by the Trust with the provision that the building was constructed in ‘accord’ with those already existing. In 1965 Council took on board the plans for the Senior Citizens Centre and applied for a government grant. These could only be awarded if Council owned the site. In 1962 the Trust had resolved to hand over the assets to Council once the Memorial Gardens were completed. This was in line with Health Department requirements that grants for the ongoing operation and maintenance of the three facilities would only be made once the the facilities were completed and handed over to Council. In 1965 the Department of Health further demanded substantial alterations to the Pre-School playground as a result of the pending impact of the planned Senior Citizens Centre and Main Road duplication. As a consequence, handover of the Trust’s assets to Council was initiated with a formal ceremony held in the Children’s Library on August 28th, 1965. The Trust continued on as a committee of management for another twelve months. Plans and specifications for the Senior Citizens Centre were prepared by March 1966. Council obtained a grant from the Government which covered one third of the cost and the building was completed by April 1967. Whilst the Senior Citizens Centre is contained within the original Eltham War Memorial building precinct, it was not part of the original Memorial and was not funded by the Eltham War Memorial Trust.Newspaper Broadsheet, 8 pageseltham children's library, eltham infant welfare centre, eltham pre-school, eltham war memorial hall, eltham war memorial trust, women's auxiliary

Report on the second annual meeting of the Eltham War Memorial Trust History of the War Memorial Following the end of the First World War, communities across Victoria and Australia typically erected memorials which were predominantly statues, cenotaphs, avenues of honour and plaques. The Shire of Eltham established the Avenue of Honour at the gateway to the shire as well as an obelisk at the corner of Main Road and Bridge street and the Shire of Eltham War Memorial Tower at Kangaroo Ground. After the Second World War communities once again desired to preserve the memories of those who served and paid the ultimate sacrifice. Resources were scarce so there was a transition away from the traditional style memorials that sprang up post 1918 to one of building facilities that would provide ongoing benefit to the community. Even before the end of the Second World War, the citizens of Eltham began to consider an appropriate form of memorial for those from the area who fought and died in the First and Second World Wars. In 1943 the Eltham Women’s Auxiliary raised funds for the construction of buildings to be established on land to be purchased for the proposed War Memorial. On March 27th, 1945, the Eltham District Progress Association called a meeting of local people who in turn set up and registered the Eltham War Memorial Trust Inc. As a focus for the purpose of the memorial, the newspaper notice read:- ‘Those who have had a member of their family in the fighting services will want to see that the form of a memorial we are concerned with is the one which will be a constant reminder to us of those who fought for us and the little ones for whom they fought and died.’ At that meeting it was decided the Memorial should take the form of a baby health centre along with a creche and children’s library. In late 1945, the newly formed Eltham War Memorial Trust purchased the land at 903-907 Main Road Eltham from Miss Shillinglaw, which once formed part of the Shillinglaw farm on Lot 90 of Holloway’s 1851 “Little Eltham” subdivision. The Governor of Victoria, General Sir Dallas Brooks, laid the foundation stone on November 24th, 1950, in memory of those who fell in the Second World War. The Eltham Infant Welfare Centre was opened November 15th, 1952, the Pre-school on December 1st, 1956, and the Children’s Library in 1961. In late 1966 the children’s library service was integrated into the Heideberg Regional Library Service and the building was officially renamed the Eltham War Memorial Hall. Following the opening of the Eltham Infant Welfare Centre, work began in 1953 planning for the entrance to the grounds, which is signaled by a wrought iron arch entitled “Eltham War Memorial” . In 1954 the Eltham War Memorial Trust decided that a legacy provided by the late Councillor Ernest James Andrew (d. 29 March 1950) in memory of his wife, Mrs. Ellen Andrew (d. 13 July 1946) and who are both buried at Eltham Cemetery, should be used to fund the construction of the entrance. A metal plate inscribed to this effect was attached to the gates. Work on the Memorial Gardens was undertaken throughout the following decade, with a Memorial Forecourt included in the final 1956 plans for the Pre-School Centre. A quote was accepted by the Trust in 1963 for the implementation of a memorial garden, which included grading of a sixty-five foot strip at the rear of the Trust buildings and construction of concrete paths. The stone retaining walls at the front of the site were installed in 1968 when Main Road was widened and it is believed that the Memorial Gates were relocated at that time also. Eltham Senior Citizens Centre In 1964, Eltham Shire Council purchased a section of land from the Trust at the northern end of the site, as a provision for Country Fire Authority buildings. At the same time the Elderly Citizens Club proposed a Senior Citizens Centre on the south western section of the Trust’s property. This was approved by the Trust with the provision that the building was constructed in ‘accord’ with those already existing. In 1965 Council took on board the plans for the Senior Citizens Centre and applied for a government grant. These could only be awarded if Council owned the site. In 1962 the Trust had resolved to hand over the assets to Council once the Memorial Gardens were completed. This was in line with Health Department requirements that grants for the ongoing operation and maintenance of the three facilities would only be made once the the facilities were completed and handed over to Council. In 1965 the Department of Health further demanded substantial alterations to the Pre-School playground as a result of the pending impact of the planned Senior Citizens Centre and Main Road duplication. As a consequence, handover of the Trust’s assets to Council was initiated with a formal ceremony held in the Children’s Library on August 28th, 1965. The Trust continued on as a committee of management for another twelve months. Plans and specifications for the Senior Citizens Centre were prepared by March 1966. Council obtained a grant from the Government which covered one third of the cost and the building was completed by April 1967. Whilst the Senior Citizens Centre is contained within the original Eltham War Memorial building precinct, it was not part of the original Memorial and was not funded by the Eltham War Memorial Trust.Newsprint clippingeltham children's library, eltham infant welfare centre, eltham pre-school, eltham war memorial hall, eltham war memorial trust, women's auxiliary

CONTENTS: BOX 1 04585-1 04585 History • 04585-1-1 An Outline History of the Eltham War Memorial Trust by Stanley S. Addison • 04585-1-2 Stanly Addison's notes for his Outline History of the Eltham War Memorial Trust • 04585-1-3-1 Newspaper article: Eltham War Memorial Trust: Ready Now for Forward Movement; Acknowledgements £722; publication unknown, c.1946 • 04585-1-3-2 Newspaper article: Eltham War Memorial Trust: "Garden of Remembrance"; Baby Health Centre First Building, The News: The Newspaper of the City of Heidelberg and of the Shire of Eltham, 11 April 1947 • 04585-1-3-3 Newspaper: The News: The Newspaper of the City of Heidelberg and of the Shire of Eltham; Friday, December 1, 1950 • 04585-1-3-4 Newspaper article: Eltham War Memorial Trust by Stanley Addison, 1953 • 04585-1-3-5 Newspaper article: War Memorial Trust (publication unknown, n.d.) • 04581-1-4 Folder: A brief history of the Eltham War Memorial and Eltham Library, Harry Gilham, 1997-1999 • 04585-1-5 Newspaper article: Eltham's War Memorial; A Journey in Time, Nillumbik Mail, 5 July c.2001 04585-2 Eltham War Memorial Trust Minutes • 04585-2-1 Eltham War Memorial Trust Minutes, Book No. 2, 20 March 1951 to 4 June 1957 • 04585-2-2 Minute Book: Eltham War Memorial Trust Minutes, 2 July 1957 to 12 November 1973 BOX 2 04585-3 Women's Auxiliary, Eltham War Memorial Trust • 04585-3-1-1 Minute Book: Minute Book No. 1, Women's Auxiliary, Eltham War Memorial Trust, 10 May 1946 to 10 April 1952 • 04585-3-1-2 Minute Book: Minute Book No. 2, Women's Auxiliary, Eltham War Memorial Trust, 12 June 1952 to 14 June 1956 • 04585-3-1-3 Minute Book: Minute Book No. 3, Women's Auxiliary, Eltham War Memorial Trust, 12 July 1957 to 14 May 1959 • 04585-3-1-4 Minute Book: Minute Book No. 4, Women's Auxiliary, Eltham War Memorial Trust, 14 May 1959 to 12 August 1965 • 04585-3-2 Book: A favourite book of country recipes / compiled by the Women's Auxiliary of the Eltham War Memorial Trust 04585-4 04591 Eltham Easter Show and Gymkhana • 04585-4-1 Minute Book: Eltham War Memorial Trust; Easter Gymkhana Committee Minutes, 19 Nov 1954-6 Jun 1958 • 04585-4-2 Folder: Eltham War Memorial Trust; Easter Gymkhana Committee Correspondence, 19 Nov 1954-6 Jun 1958 o 04585-4-2-1 Notice from Honorary Treasurer of Easter Gymkhana Committee regarding completion of 1954 event and expression of thanks and that committee is now going into recess prior to commencement of planning for 1955 o 04585-4-2-2 Notice of Easter Gymkhana Committee Meeting, Monday 24th October, 1955 at the Shire Hall, Eltham o 04585-4-2-3 Letter from B.T. Taylor, Hon. Secretary, Eltham Easter Show Committee regarding the sale of tickets (c.1957) o 04585-4-2-4 Letter from B.T. Taylor, President, Eltham Easter Show Committee to Georges Ltd regarding the supply of The Georges Cup for the Eltham Easter Show, 11 April 1958 o 04585-4-2-5 Letter from Georges Ltd to B.T. Taylor, President, Eltham Easter Show Committee with payment for the miniatures of The Georges Cup, 6 June 1958 o 04585-4-2-6 Letter from Eltham Shire Secretary to B.T. Taylor, President, Eltham Easter Show Committee advising of new process regarding raffle, 5 May 1958 o 04585-4-2-7 Letter from Lilian Heath, Secretary, Judge Book Village Auxiliary to B.T. Taylor, Eltham Easter Show Committee, 24 May 1958 o 04585-4-2-8 Letter from Mrs R.J. Godfrey on behalf of M.A. Godfrey of Dandenong to B.T. Taylor, President, Eltham Easter Show under threat of legal action requesting replacement of cheque for £10 (second prize Open Jumping Contest), which was lost, 24 May 1958 o 04585-4-2-9 Reply by B.T. Taylor, President, Eltham Easter Show Committee to Mrs R.J. Godfrey to her letter of 24 May explaining circumstances and denying responsibility to forward a replacement cheque as it was cashed at the Golf Club Hotel; 6 June 1958 • 04585-4-3 Folder: Easter Gymkhana Committee Minutes and other associated ephemera o 04585-4-3-1 Letter: Letter of donation to Shire of Eltham Historical Society of the Easter Gymkhana Committee Minutes and other associated ephemera, J.M. Peter Bassett-Smith, 31 October 1987 o 04585-4-3-2 Souvenir Program: Free Program; Eltham Easter Gymkhana and Light Horse Show also Dog Competition, Easter Saturday 9th April, 1955 at Eltham (Lower) Park o 04585-4-3-3 Program Schedule; Eltham Easter Gymkhana and Light Horse Show also Dog Competition, Easter Saturday 9th April, 1955 at Eltham (Lower) Park o 04585-4-3-4 Program; Monster Gymkhana in aid of Hurstbridge Hall Re-Building Fund, Hurstbridge Recreation Reserve, Sunday, September 18, 1955 o 04585-4-3-5 Record Crowd Came To Eltham Gymkhana, Sporting World, Diamond Valley Local, Thursday, April 14, 1955, p8 o 04585-4-3-6 Program; Eltham Easter Gymkhana Goat Show Schedule, Easter Saturday 31st March, 1956, Eltham Park o 04585-4-3-7 Official Program; Eltham Easter Horse Show and Goat Show, Easter Saturday April 20th, 1957, Eltham Park o 04585-4-3-8 Program Schedule; Eltham Easter Horse Show and Goat Show, Easter Saturday April 20th, 1957, Eltham Park o 04585-4-3-9 Young Rider to Judge at Show, The Age, Wednesday, April 17, 1957, p8 o 04585-4-3-10 Promotional window label, Eltham Gymkhana, Easter Saturday, 20 April 1957 o 04585-4-3-11 Entry form for the Skyline Drive-In “Soap-Box” Derby, to be held along Main Road between Panorama Avenue and Bolton Street, Easter Saturday, 20 April 1957 o 04585-4-3-12 Official Program; Eltham Easter Horse Show and Goat Show, Easter Saturday, 5th April, 1958, Eltham Park o 04585-4-3-13 Brief history of the Eltham War Memorial Trust and Women's Auxiliary, Peter Bassett-Smith, 1987 o 04585-4-3-14 Summary of the Eltham War Memorial Trust Easter Gymkhana Committee Minutes (1954-1956) 04585-5 Folder: Infant Welfare Centre (1952) 04585-5-1 Newspaper article: Eltham: “Memorial Baby Health Centre Opening”; District News, The News, 14 November 1952. (Single sheet newsprint printed one side with District News for Macleod, Kinglake, Watsonia, Wattle Glen, Diamond Creek, Panton Hill, Eltham North, Lower Plenty, Research, Eltham. On reverse in handwritten purple pencil to the President, somewhat indecipherable, about an item to be hung on the walls of the beautiful building.) • 04585-5-2 Eltham War Memorial Trust, Official Opening - Baby Health Centre, 15th November 1952; Timetable of proceedings (1 page handwritten) • 04585-5-3 Eltham Baby Health Centre; Official Opening - Baby Health Centre: Address by President, 15 November 1952 (9 pages handwritten) • 04585-5-4 Newspaper article: Infant Welfare Centre as War Memorial, 15 November 1952 • 04585-5-5 Souvenir Booklet: Eltham War Memorial Trust, 1954 • 04585-5-6 Eltham War Memorial: Address by Mrs Stanley Addison at the Annual Meeting of the Infant Welfare Centre, Thursday 21st October, 1965 (4 pages typed, carbon copy) 04585-6 Roll of Honour Board (1954), Eltham War Memorial 04585-7 Eltham Pre-School (1956), Eltham War Memorial • 04585-7-1 Newspaper article: Minister to open Eltham Pre-school Tomorrow • 04585-7-2 Program; Eltham War Memorial Trust: Opening of the Second Unit of the War memorial, The Pre-school Centre, on Saturday, December 1st, 1956 at 3 p.m. • 04585-7-3 Folder: Eltham Pre-School (1956) Papers donated by Gordon Pearce, 30 Apr 2021 pertaining to Eltham Pre-school and Eltham War Memorial Trust. Gordon was a former President of the Eltham Pre-school at the time the Eltham War Memorial Trust was disbanded by Eltham Shire Council in December 1973. o Articles of the Eltham War Memorial Trust (9 A3 photocopies of original foolscap pages) o President’s Report: Eltham War Memorial Trust, Committee of Management, Dec. 1973 in which it was advised that the Committee was to be disbanded. o Letter: Gordon J.J. Pearce, President Eltham Pre-school to C.J. Bock, Chief Administrative Officer, Shire of Eltham, 21 Nov 1973 expressing disappointment at the Shire wanting to disband the Committee of Management of the Eltham War Memorial Trust o Minutes: Eltham Pre-school Committee, 26 Nov 1973 o Minutes: Eltham Pre-school Committee, 17 Dec 1973 o President’s Report: Gordon Pearce, Eltham Pre-school, 4 Feb 1974 • 04585-7-4 Newspaper clipping: A humble beginning, Diamond Valley Leader, July 26, 2006, p35 04585-8 Children’s Library (1961) / Eltham War Memorial Hall (1966) • 04585-8-1 Letter: Hon. Secretary Eltham Shire Council inviting Lieut-General The Honourable Sir Edmund Herring to attend the opening of the Children's Library. 23 Aug. 1961 • 04585-8-2 Newspaper article: Third unit of Eltham's memorial opened; Diamond Valley News, 14 Nov 1961 (Ref: SEA_74_001-055) • 04585-8-3-1 Receipt to Eltham Historical Society for hire of Eltham War Memorial Hall, 23 June 1970 • 04585-8-3-2 Receipt to Eltham Historical Society for hire of Eltham War Memorial Hall, 6 July 1970 • 04585-8-4 A brief history of the Eltham Library, Harry Gilham, c.1994 04585-9 Eltham Enlistments for the Second World War 04585-1964 • Document: Photocopy of Certificate of Title, Eltham War Memorial Trust, Lot 2, Plan of Subdivision No. 63242, Parish of Nillumbik; derived from Vol. 7073 Fol. 498, 18 May 1964 04585-1996 (Eltham Town Focus Group) Documents relating to a focus group brought together by the Shire of Nillumbik Chairman of Commissioners in 1996 to provide advice on the best long term use for the buildings and land situated between the former Eltham Shire Offices and Country Fire Authority buildings. These buildings are known as the Eltham War Memorial buildings located at 903-907 Main Road, Eltham. In May 2020, the Heritage Council Victoria did not recommend the site for inclusion in the Victorian Heritage Register. Potential impact upon the Memorial Garden because of a proposed roundabout at Dudley Street and Main Road • Notes concerning impact upon Eltham War Memorial Garden of a proposed roundabout at Dudley Street, Eltham, 20 August 1996 • Draft proposal of a roundabout at Dudley Street and Main Road showing impact upon Eltham War Memorial Garden, c. Sep. 1996 • Letter (copy): Harry Gilham, President, EDHS to Bruce Ruxton, President, Victorian RSL concerning impact upon Eltham War Memorial Garden of a proposed roundabout at Dudley Street, Eltham, 1 September 1996 • Letter: Bruce Ruxton, President, Victorian RSL to Harry Gilham, President, EDHS, 20 Sep 1996 concerning impact upon Eltham War Memorial Garden of a proposed roundabout at Dudley Street, Eltham, including copy of communication with Eltham RSL (T. Beaton, Hon Sec.) of 10 Sep 1996 • Letter: EDHS (H. Gilham, President) to Commissioners, Nillumbik Shire Council, 16 Sep 1996 advising not in support of roundabout at Dudley Street due to impact upon Eltham War Memorial Garden • Photocopy: Editorial comment, Peter Doughterty, ArtStreams Dec 1996/Jan 1997 re Commissioners push for development in activity zone of former office site and Eltham War Memorial (see EDHS_04362) • Letter: Don Cordell, Chairman of Commissioners, Nillumbik Shire Council, 10 Dec. 1996 inviting Harry Gilham to join a Focus Group to advise him, chaired by Alan Field. Includes a list of focus group members and contact details. • Minutes of Meeting, Eltham Town Focus Group, 17 Dec. 1996 04585-1997 (Eltham Town Focus Group) Documents relating to a focus group brought together by the Shire of Nillumbik Chairman of Commissioners in 1996 to provide advice on the best long term use for the buildings and land situated between the former Eltham Shire Offices and Country Fire Authority buildings. These buildings are known as the Eltham War Memorial buildings located at 903-907 Main Road, Eltham. In May 2020, the Heritage Council Victoria did not recommend the site for inclusion in the Victorian Heritage Register. Investigating condition of and future use of the Eltham War Memorial Complex and redevelopment of the site • Letter: Alan Field to Harry Gilham. 8 Jan. 1997 advising date of 18 Jan. for next meeting of Eltham Town Focus Group • Minutes of Meeting, Eltham Town Focus Group, 18 Jan. 1997 with handwritten notes by Harry Gilham • Draft Report: A Community Vision for “The Eltham War Memorial Trust” Property, Main Road, Eltham, prepared at the request of Chief Commissioner, Don Cordell, 31 Jan. 1997, along with handwritten nots by Ross McDonald and accompanying note by Harry Gilham written in 2010 upon handover of EDHS presidency 04585-2000 • Notes used by Harry Gilham at Nillumbik Council Meeting of 21 March 2000 regarding proposed sale/development of the Eltham War Memorial property 04585-2004 Material covers Eltham Major Activity Structure Plan and a proposal by Council to sell the Eltham War Memorial site for commercial use • Eltham Major Activity Structure Plan Comments Sheet; Response by Harry Gilham, 22 June 2004 • Letter from Eric Mack to the Hon. Steve Herbert, Member for Eltham regarding draft Major Activity Centre Structure Plan, 22 June 2004 • Newspaper article: Protect war memorial, Harry Gilham, President, Eltham District Historical Society; Letter, Diamond Valley Leader, June 30, 2004, p16 (Includes copy sent to paper 17 June) • Letter from Eric Mack to Nillumbik Shire Council CEO and Councillors regarding draft Major Activity Centre Structure Plan, 2004 • Copy of fax sent by John Cohen, OAM, JP to Diamond Valley News, re his support for the appeal for protection of the Eltham War Memorial 3 July 2004 • Newspaper article: Sell-off a betrayal of trust, Ken Eckersall; Letters, Diamond Valley Leader, 7 July 2004 • Newspaper article: Don't insult memory of fallen servicemen, John Cohen; Letters, Diamond Valley Leader, 7 July 2004 • Newspaper article: Up in arms against sell-off, Dave Crosswaite, Diamond Valley Leader, July 14, 2004, p5 • Copy of letter from John Cohen to President and Executive of the Eltham RSL regarding the Eltham War Memorial, 16 July 2004 • Reply to Eric Mack from the Hon. Steve Herbert, Member for Eltham regarding his letter of 22 June, 27 July, 2004 • Notice issued by Cr Greg Johnson of 11 August meeting by Council's Policy and Services Committee to consider a proposal to sell the Eltham War memorial and old shire office properties, 6 August 2004 • Minutes for the policy and Services Committee of Nillumbik Shire Council held Wednesday 11 August 2004 • Newspaper article: Shire plan 'sacrilegious' by Dave Crossthwaite, Diamond Valley Leader, Wednesday, August 19, 2004, p1 • Newspaper article: Our say on sale of land; Have you say, Diamond Valley Leader, August 18, 2004, p22 • Newspaper article: School hall is not ratepayers' worry; Have your Say, Diamond Valley Leader, August 18, 2004, p23 • Copy of letter sent by John Cohen, OAM, JP to the CEO, RSL Victoria requesting their opposition to sale of the Eltham War Memorial, 19 August 2004 • Newspaper article: Clash over land sale by Dave Crossthwaite, Diamond Valley Leader, August 25, 2004, p1 • Newspaper article: Mayor beset over arts agenda claim by Dave Crossthwaite, Diamond Valley Leader, August 25, 2004, p5 • Newspaper article: A lot of work has gone into shire structure plan; Letters, Diamond Valley Leader, August 25, 2004, p10 • Newspaper article: Public assets are not for sale; Letters, Diamond Valley Leader, August 25, 2004, p11 • Copy of letter sent by John Cohen, OAM, JP to Brigadier J.R. Deighton, State Secretary, Victorian RSL re his comments in Diamond Valley Leader regarding the Eltham War Memorial, 27 August 2004 • Handwritten notes prepared by Harry Gilham in preparation of presentation to Council pertaining to draft Eltham Major Activity Structure Plan, c. Sep. 2004 • Newspaper article: Don't let a dream stay hijacked; Letters, Diamond Valley Leader, September 1, 2004, p11 • Ordinary Meeting of Council Agenda, 15 September 2004, p55 with notes on vote for motion that any reference to the sale of the War Memorial be removed • Copy of letter sent by John Cohen, OAM, JP to Brigadier J.R. Deighton, State Secretary, Victorian RSL advising the War Memorial had been removed from the wider proposal of the Eltham Activity Centre, 16 September 2004 • Newspaper article: Future of memorial site on hold until poll by Caroline Gonzalez, Diamond Valley Leader, September 20, 2004 • Fax from Catherine Dale, CEO, Nillumbik Shire Council to John Cohen re Renovation and Maintenance of Victorian War Memorials, 6 October 2004 • Letter from Cr Tony Raunic, Mayor to Harry Gilham regarding Eltham Major Activity Centre Structure Plan advising the removal of any reference to sale of the War Memorial and detailed consultation to be held with stakeholders regarding the former Shire of Eltham Office site; 8 October 2004 • Letter from Barry Rosewall, President, Eltham RSL to John Cohen advising the sub-branch strongly opposes the sale of the Eltham War Memorial, 20 October 2004 • Fax from Bill Forrest, Interim CEO, Nillumbik Shire Council to John Cohen re Renovation and Maintenance of Victorian War Memorials, 8 November 2004 • Copy of letter from John Cohen to Bill Forrest, Interim CEO, Nillumbik Shire Council re Maintenance of Eltham War Memorial, November 2004 04585-2007 • News article: The spin starts here; Brian Murray, Nillumbik Ratepayers’ Association, Valley Views, Diamond Valley Leader, 13 June 2007 suggesting Council proposing to bring back Shire Offices to Eltham with potential loss of Eltham War Memorial • News article: War memorial fear-mongering; Harry Gilham, Heidelberg Valley Weekly, 26 June 2007 • News article: Consultation is no spin; John Cohen, Former Shire President, Valley Views, Diamond Valley Leader, 27 June 2007 • News article: Troops enlist for campaign by Fiona Willan, Diamond Valley Leader, 18 July 2007 04585-2010 • Newspaper article: Hall 'scruffy' - war vet, Diamond Valley Leader, 17 February 2010, p2 04585-2011 Cultural Significance Assessment • Cultural Heritage Significance Assessment; Civic Building Complex, 903-907 Main Road, Eltham, September 2011 DRAFT • Feedback to Nillumbik Shire Council by Eltham District Historical Society in response to September 2011 Draft Cultural Heritage Significance Assessment of the Eltham War Memorial Building Complex, 3 November 2011 • War Memorial Building Complex, 903-907 Main Road, Eltham: Cultural Significance Assessment, November 2011 prepared for Nillumbik Shire Council by Samantha Westbrooke Pty Ltd in association with Peter Mills PhD, Architectural Historian 04585-2014 Proposed extension to Cenotaph War Memorial Terrace championed by Montmorency-Eltham RSL and its impact upon the Memorial Garden and Eltham War Memorial buildings complex. • Draft Landscape Concept Plan by Henry Architects for Proposed Extension to Memorial Terrace, 14 July 2014 (Note: Senior Citizen’s Building correctly identified. Every subsequent plan incorrectly shows this building as the former Children’s Library, which was the War Memorial Hall building) • Letter: Eltham Gateway Action Group to Stuart Burdack, Shire of Nillumbik (undated) offering comment on Proposed Extension to Memorial Terrace with handwritten notes • Letter: Jim Connor, President, EDHS to Adrian Cully, Manager Community Participation, Learning and Culture, Nillumbik Shire Council, 18 Aug. 2014, encouraging Council not to support proposed extension to War Memorial Terrace due to significant impact upon the Eltham War Memorial Complex as supported by the Cultural Significance assessment conducted by Council in 2011 • Notices of Motion, NOM.001/14 pertaining to memorials Advisory Committee and Montmorency-Eltham RSL to upgrade the Eltham War Memorial site in time for ANZAC Day 2015, Nillumbik Shire Council Ordinary Meeting, 26 August 2014 • Notices of Motion, NOM.001/14 pertaining to memorials Advisory Committee and Montmorency-Eltham RSL to upgrade the Eltham War Memorial site in time for ANZAC Day 2015, Nillumbik Shire Council Ordinary Meeting, 26 August 2014 • Media Release: Support for cenotaph expansion, Nillumbik Shire Council, Sep 2014 • Eltham War Memorial Park (Stage 2), Nillumbik Shire Council, c.2014 • Email (copy): Summary of advice from Samantha Westbrooke (2 Sep. 2014) regarding proposed impact of landscaping around the cenotaph as identified in the significance assessment conducted Nov. 2011 by herself and Dr Peter Mills. • Policy and Services reports, PSD.034/14 Eltham War Memorial Building Precinct - Proposed Extension to Memorial Terrace, Nillumbik Shire Council Ordinary Meeting, 9 September 2014 • EDHS presentation to NSC Policy and Services meeting 9 September 2014 regarding the Montmorency-Eltham RSL proposal to expand/upgrade the Eltham War Memorial with handwritten notes from Harry Gilham for his submission at Council meeting • Newspaper article: Plan to expand memorial; growth in ANZAC Day services inspires RSL proposal by Megan Bailey, Diamond Valley Leader, Wednesday, September 10, 2014 • Agenda: User Groups and Stakeholders Meeting, Proposed Extension to Memorial Terrace, 11 September 2014 • Email: Jim Connor, EDHS, regarding option to seek a heritage protection overlay for the Eltham War Memorial Building complex similar to that for the cenotaph, 15 Sep. 2014 • Newspaper article: Council defers RSL war memorial upgrade to seek consultation, Diamond Valley Leader, September 17, 2014 • Letter: Harry Gilham to Local Press, 20 Sep. 2014 regarding the Eltham War Memorial and moves by the RSL to take expand the War Memorial Terrace further into the orginal Memorial Garden • Letter: Alan Field, President, The Eltham Veterans War Memorial Preservation Society Inc. to CEO and Councillors, Nillumbik Shire Council protesting at perceived injustices and ‘veteran bashing’ regarding their previous efforts to relocate ‘their Obelisk and Cenotaph’ to the Eltham War Memorial complex and their frustration in their attempts to further expand upon the Memorial Terrace. Areas of letter are highlighted with handwritten markups and notes. Also notes on loose card and paper with definitions of Memorial, Obelisk, Cenotaph, commentary on establishment of Eltham War Memorial, The Eltham War Memorial Trust and RSL involvement and current actions by RSL in respect to claims in the letter (written by Harry Gilham ?). • Newspaper article: Residents say no to memorial upgrade; Mayor says feedback will be considered at next meeting by Megan Bailey, Diamond Valley Leader, Wednesday, October 1, 2014 • Policy and Services reports, PS.038/14 Eltham War Memorial Building Precinct - proposed extension to the Eltham Cenotaph Terrace, Nillumbik Shire Council Policy and Services Committee Meeting, 14 October 2014 • Newspaper article: Centenary dawn service moves to Petrie Park; Diamond Valley Leader, October 22, 2014, p5 • Newspaper article: Upset over upgrade; war memorial plans get culled; Diamond Valley Leader, October 29, 2014, p3 • Newspaper article: Memorial to be extended; expected to be finished before ANZAC Day ceremony by Megan Bailey, Diamond Valley Leader, December 17, 2014 04585-2018 Proposal by Nillumbik Shire Council to sell off former Eltham Shire Office site and Eltham War Memorial site for commercial use and community reaction. • Newspaper article: Site of contention; Conversations, Diamond Valley Leader, September 5, 2018, p10 • Motion to Councillors: Carlotta Quinlan, Eltham Community Action Group, [October 2018] following a Community Town Hall Meeting held October 13, 2018 regarding proposed development and sale of part of 895 and 903-907 Main Road, Eltham • Things you should know about the Eltham War Memorial, author unknown, c. Oct. 2018 • Email: Greg Johnson to Sue Dyet 16 October 2018 regarding Assessment Criteria discussed at 25 September 2018 Council meeting concerning proposed development and sale of part of 895 and 903-907 Main Road, Eltham • Newspaper article: War memorial assurance; RSL involved but no-confidence motion passed on council by Brittany Shanahan, Diamond Valley Leader, October 17, 2018 • 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 • Report: Request for proposals - For the development and sale of part of 895 and 903-907 Main Road, Eltham; Prepared for Nillumbik Shire Council by Maddocks; 2 November 2018 (229 pages) • Notice: Duncan Duke, President, Montmorency Eltham RSL, to Members, 5 December 2018 – statement regarding “proposed redevelopment of the Eltham War Memorial Buildings and potential impact of the proposed redevelopment on our (sic) Cenotaph and Memorial Site.” 04585-2020 Community motions to seek Heritage Council Victoria registration of the Eltham War Memorial precinct • Eltham War Memorial Buildings: Recommendation of the Executive Director and assessment of cultural heritage significance under Part 3, Division 3 of the Heritage Act 2017; 18 May 2020 • Newspaper advertisement: Heritage Council Victoria, advising the Eltham War Memorial Buildings have been recommended NOT for inclusion in the Victorian Heritage Register; The Age, May 22, 2020, p34 • Correspondence: Eltham War Memorial Buildings; prepared by Nillumbik Shire Council for the Heritage Council Victoria; 29 May 2020 • Correspondence: Eltham War Memorial Buildings; prepared by Nillumbik Shire Council for the Heritage Council Victoria; 5 June 2020 • Submission: Eltham War Memorial Buildings; prepared by Eltham Community Action Group for the Heritage Council Victoria; 17 July 2020. Also included: o Submission: Eltham War Memorial Buildings; prepared by Catherine Johnson of Pryor Street, Eltham for the Heritage Council Victoria; 17 July 2020 o Submission: Eltham War Memorial Buildings; prepared by Andrew Barras of Silver Street, Eltham for the Heritage Council Victoria; 10 July 2020 o Submission: Eltham War Memorial Buildings; prepared by Graham Fildes of Elouera Close, Eltham for the Heritage Council Victoria; 11 July 2020 o Submission: Eltham War Memorial Buildings; prepared by Eltham District Historical Society for the Heritage Council Victoria; 17 July 2020 o Submission: Eltham War Memorial Buildings; prepared by Julie Willis of Faculty of Architecture, Building and Planning, University of Melbourne for the Heritage Council Victoria; 17 July 2020 o Submission: Eltham War Memorial Buildings; prepared by Ms Zheng Wu of Wynton Ct, Eltham for the Heritage Council Victoria; 16 July 2020 o Submission: Eltham War Memorial Buildings; prepared by Jenny Daw of Black Cameron Road, Smith Gully for the Heritage Council Victoria; 19 July 2020 o Submission: Eltham War Memorial Buildings; prepared by Eltham Pre-School for the Heritage Council Victoria; 19 July 2020 o Submission: Eltham War Memorial Buildings; prepared by Jo-Anne Barker of Treloar Ave, Eltham for the Heritage Council Victoria; 18 July 2020 o Submission: Eltham War Memorial Buildings; prepared by Prof. Hannah Lewi of Faculty of Architecture, Building and Planning, University of Melbourne for the Heritage Council Victoria; 18 July 2020 o Submission: Eltham War Memorial Buildings; prepared by Janet Boddy of Kerrie Cres, Eltham for the Heritage Council Victoria; 19 July 2020 o Submission: Eltham War Memorial Buildings; prepared by Rosemary Aitken of Kent Hughes Rd., Eltham for the Heritage Council Victoria; 18 July 2020 o Submission: Eltham War Memorial Buildings; prepared by Sue Dyet of Leonard Cres., Eltham for the Heritage Council Victoria; 19 July 2020 o Submission: Eltham War Memorial Buildings; prepared by Lynnsay Prunotto of Lavender Park Rd., Eltham for the Heritage Council Victoria; 19 July 2020 o Submission: Eltham War Memorial Buildings; prepared by Felicity Bing of Eltham Pre-School for the Heritage Council Victoria • Draft Report: Eltham War Memorial Building Complex, 903-907 Main Road, Eltham, prepared by CONTEXT, (Survey Date: Dec. 2020) Also contained in Box 2 is EDHS_04586 – Eltham Obelisk   EDHS_04586 - Eltham Obelisk The Eltham Obelisk was originally located at the corner of Bridge and Main Roads in 1919. It commemorated the memory of the Eltham Soldiers who fell in the First World War and complemented the Eltham Avenue of Honour established in 1917 to those that served. In 1943 (WW2) the local community commenced plans to establish the Eltham War Memorial, a living memorial to benefit the children as opposed to a one in stone as per the obelisk. The Eltham War Memorial Trust was established in 1945. In 1947 the Trust intended for the Obelisk to be relocated from Bridge Street and Main Road to the Garden of Remembrance which was planned as part of the Baby Health Centre which was to be the first of three buildings of the Eltham War Memorial to be built in 1951. In 1951 the Eltham RSL was invited to be represented on the Eltham War Memorial Trust. During the period of Jun through October 1956 the original wooden bridge over the Diamond Creek in Bridge Street was replaced with a new concrete structure. At the same time the intersection of Bridge Street at Main Road was revised necessitating the relocation of the Eltham Obelisk. It was ‘temporarily’ relocated to the front garden of the Eltham RSL Sub-Branch on Main Road for safe keeping. In 2007, a suggestion was proposed by Harry Gilham (President, EDHS) to John Cohen (ERSL) to claim a special site along with the historic Shillinglaw trees on the now vacant former Eltham Shire Office site adjacent to the Eltham War Memorial precinct for relocation of the obelisk. In 2010 following the financial collapse and sale of the Eltham RSL Sub-Branch property and amalgamation with the Montmorency Eltham RSL sub-branch, the location of the obelisk was again in immediate jeopardy and in conjunction with Nillumbik Shire Council, supported by the RSL, the obelisk was relocated in front of the Eltham War Memorial buildings in preparation for the Dawn Service on Anzac Day 2012. The new location resulted in significant impact upon the Eltham War Memorial Garden. Council’s preferred location was near the Eltham Library however that would have cost $39,000. The Eltham War Memorial Garden was subjected to further intrusion in 2014 with a proposed expansion of the War Memorial Terrace. Contents: 1. Newspaper article: Eltham, The Advertiser, 15 Nov 1918 2. Newspaper article: Eltham, The Advertiser, 18 Nov 1918 3. Newspaper article: An Obelisk at Eltham, The Advertiser, 11 Jul 1919 4. Newspaper advertisement: Unveiling of Obelisk at Eltham, The Advertiser, 1 Aug 1919 5. Newspaper article: Eltham Soldiers’ Memorial; Unveiled by Sir William Irvine, The Argus, Monday, 4 Aug 1919, p8 6. Newspaper article: Memorial to the Fallen; Unveiled at Eltham, The Age, Monday, 4th August 1919 7. Newspaper article: Eltham Memorial to Fallen Soldiers, Diamond Creek Valley Advocate, 8 Aug 1919 8. Newspaper article: Programme - Presentation of German Machine Gun at the Obelisk, Eltham on Sunday, 8th August 1920, at 3.30 P.M. 9. Newspaper article: article about presentation of a war trophy, a heavy machine gun placed beside obelisk, The Advertiser, 13 Aug 1920 10. Newspaper article: Eltham: ANZAC Services, The Advertiser, Friday, May 2, 1924 11. Newspaper article: Eltham War Memorial, The Advertiser, Oct 26, 1928 12. Newspaper article: Obelisk honors their memory, Diamond Valley News, March 30, 1971, p11 13. Newspaper article: Eltham Obelisk of 1919, Harry Gilham, August 2000 as well as draft submitted dated 22 Aug 2000 14. Newspaper article: Names renewal, thanks to Barry, Diamond Valley Leader, 18 Apr 2007, p3 with picture featuring Eltham RSL president John Haines and Gwen Rosewall 15. Handwritten note from Harry Gilham (President EDHS) to John Cohen (ERSL) regarding history of Eltham RSL site and 1947 newspaper article "Eltham War Memorial Trust "Garden of Remembrance" referencing relocation of Obelisk to the proposed Garden of Remembrance at the Baby Health Centre (Eltham War Memorial), 24 December 2000. 16. Minutes of Eltham RSL and Community Meeting held at 29 Nyora Road, Eltham, 23 June 2010 (Community meeting re closure of Eltham RSL sub-branch and relocation of the WW1 Obelisk) 17. Newspaper article: RSL branch has a fight on its hands by Alana Schetzer, Heidelberg & Valley Weekly, 3 August 2010, p7 18. Newspaper article: Locals battle state RSL over building, Diamond Valley Leader, 4 August 2010, p7 19. Newspaper article: Move war memorial: RSL, c. Dec. 2010 20. Officers' reports, 11.113/10 Relocation of Eltham RSL Cenotaph, Nillumbik Shire Council Ordinary Meeting, 21 December 2010 21. Newspaper article: New home for cenotaph; Councillors support proposal for relocation to Eltham's War Memorial Hall, Diamond Valley Leader, 12 January 2011 22. Newspaper article: CFA hot for RSL site; MP presses for 'fast-track' purchase, Diamond Valley Leader, 23 February 2011, p1 23. Email Correspondence: EDHS President to NSC General Manager Community and Leisure re RSL Obelisk (Cenotaph) proposed relocation, 24 May 2011 24. Officers' reports, OCM.091/11 Interim Relocation site for the Eltham Cenotaph, Nillumbik Shire Council Ordinary Meeting, 23 August 2011 25. Newspaper article: New home for cenotaph delights war veterans, Diamond Valley Leader, 31 August 2011, p9 26. Newsletter Extract: Eltham RSL and War Memorial, EDHS Newsletter 14 Sep 2011 27. Officers' reports, OCM.004/121 Interim Relocation of the Eltham Cenotaph, Nillumbik Shire Council Ordinary Meeting, 31 January 2012 (includes Funding agreement between NSC and Montmorency-Eltham RSL Sub-branch Inc) 28. Newspaper article: Memorial move lags, Diamond Valley Leader, 1 February 2012 29. Site history of Obelisk and Wall Memorial Hall, Montmorency-Eltham RSL, March 2012 draft 30. Open Letter to the Residents of ELTHAM and MONTMORENCY [And their Surrounding Districts]; Montmorency-Eltham RSL, 19 March 2012 (including drafts) 31. Newspaper advertisement: Open letter to the residents of Eltham and Montmorency, Montmorency Eltham RSL, Diamond Valley News, 21 March 2012 32. Newspaper advertisement: Open letter to the residents of Eltham and Montmorency, Montmorency Eltham RSL, Banyule & Nillumbik Weekly, 27 March 2012, p7 33. Newspaper article: New dawn for tribute, Diamond Valley Leader ca April 2012 34. Email (Copy): Alex Smith (MERSL Ast. Sec.) advising that contractor (Malcorp) will relocate obelisk Monday, April 2, 2012 35. Newspaper article: Memorial Moved, Banyule/Nillumbik Weekly, 10 April 2012 36. Newspaper article: Eltham cenotaph move goes 'like clockwork', Diamond Valley Leader, 11 April 2012 37. Newspaper photo: Veterans (l-r) Alan Field, Max Lowerson and John Cohen will join piper David Cretney to commemorate fallen Diggers, 2012 (standing beside relocated obelisk in front of the Eltham War Memorial complex), c. 11 April 2012 38. Advertisement, Program for Eltham Dawn Service, Diamond Valley Leader, April 2012 39. Program for Montmorency Anzac Day March 2012 (incomplete, some pages duplicated, some pages upside down). 40. Newspaper article: RSL site nets $1.8m, Diamond Valley Leader, 9 May 2012 41. OCM.076/13 Amendment C84 Eltham Cenotaph; 11. Officer's reports, Ordinary Meeting of Council Agenda, 25 June 2013, pp42-44 and Attachment; Amendment C84 Eltham Cenotaph; Citation - Eltham War Memorial (4 pages) 42. Newspaper article: Council seeks to protect cenotaph, Diamond Valley Leader, Wednesday, July 3, 2013, p5 43. Newspaper article: Future safe for war memorial, Diamond Valley Leader, Wednesday, November 13, 2013, p5 44. Handwritten notes in pencil (2 pages) by Harry Gilham, Items form the Eltham and Whittlesea Shires The Advertiser newspaper 7 June 1918 - 1919 providing a summary of the formation of the Peace Celebration Committee leading to the establishment of the Avenue of Honour and the Eltham Obelisk and seeking information in lead up to WW1 Centenary, 2013 45. Newspaper article: Memories of our heroes, Diamond Valley Leader, 25 Apr 2018 – also Veteran saluted, featuring article on Army veteran, Glen Ferrarotto. eltham war memorial, eltham war memorial trust, eltham infant welfare centre, eltham pre school, honour roll, eltham war memorial hall, children's library, eltham obelisk