The Kiewa Hydro Electric Scheme (KHES) produced electricity for the people living in the Kiewa Valley and beyond to many parts of Victoria. The people and their families working on the scheme were encouraged by their employer the State Electricity Commission of Victoria to purchase and use electrical appliances. The iron was popular as it was quick and easy compared to those used previously. This iron belonged to Ron White who was a senior member of staff during the construction and operation of the KHES.This iron was owned by Ron White who was appointed Area Operations Engineer Kiewa in June 1956. He was later appointed General Superintendent and then, in 1974, he was appointed Principal Hydro Engineer of the recently titled Hydro Division.Rectangular yellow and black cardboard box with 'complete' fitting lid. Red and black writing on all sides except the bottom. staples used to hold down the sides of the lid.Front of box - New Revolutionary / Dry/ It steam irons/ it damps as it irons!/ It dry irons too! Back of box - Hoover Steam or Dry Iron Side of box - New Revolutionary / Hoover/ Steam or dry/ Iron / Made By/ Hoover Industries Pty Ltd Meadowbank NSW Top of box has sketch of dial "Big Safety Set Dial" - with black backgroundelectric iron; steam iron; hoover industries; ron white; laundry; kiewa hydro electric scheme

This item was used in conjunction with the Suddeth (Sudden Death) Carbon Bi-siilphide fumigator during many rabbit plagues that invaded Victoria and NSW before CSIRO introduced the myxomatosis virus in 1950.The contents of this jug was very important pre 1950 for all rural areas which suffered under the annual mice plagues, especially the wheat producing regions. Milk producers suffered from the mice by products contaminating their fresh milk containers and storage facilities. Rabbit warrens causing farm machinery instabilities and also horseback activities eg mustering herds.This glazed pottery jug has a screw on lid and a cream coloured body with a caramel brown neck. The remnance of a handle, which has been broken off is located at the top just below the the rim of the lid.On one side below the neck and within a black boundary mark "SUDDETH" and below "SMOKE MIXTURE No. 2" and sandwiched between two black lines "POISON". Below this and in five lines "PATENTED APRIL 6th '08 No. 11205(AUST.)" "PATENTED APRIL 6th '08 No. 24711 (N.Z.)" "THIS MIXTURE GOES IN BOTTLE FURTHEST FROM MACHINE" "DO NOT SPILL ON YOUR HANDS OR CLOTHING" "F, GREER, PATENTEE SYDNEY"ceramic bowls, contamination of farm produce, domestic farm hygiene, vermin extermination poisons

This analog voltmeter is quite a large (industrial type) apparatus which permits the easy monitoring of electrical variations within the large SEC Victoria Hydro Scheme's electrical generators. These generators are powered by the hydro force of "stored" water at a higher altitude. The establishment of both the NSW and Victorian Hydro schemes was achieved from the mid 1900's to the 1960's. At this point in time the need for additional power sources to quench both an industrial and domestic demand for electricity was purely an economic and not and environmental (carbon reduction) factor. This hydro scheme was instigated by "the Government of the day" as a bold move and was the major force of the World War II refugee and "technical" workforce inclusion of skilled and unskilled migration into the Australian environment. Although this mass "invasion" of workers with families was thought of in some circles as intrusive, the expansion of population post war years and its integration into the Australian rural sector, produced the multi- lingual multi-cultural diversity of later years. This voltmeter is very significant to the Kiewa Valley as its use was introduced during the Kiewa Hydro Scheme. Although only a small apparatus it was part of the explosion of human resources into the valley. This influx of population transformed the region from that of a basically quiet rural region to one which evolved into both an industrial and a larger residential community. This evolution in the valley created a change, not only in the "physical" landscape but also the socio-economic expansion which permitted other "tourist" based industries into the valley. This analog volt meter has two metal rods protruding from the "back" of instrument with screw on points for the negative and the positive leads allowing the "current" to flow across the calibrated resistors to indicate on the "face" side the strength of the voltage "power". The "face" of the instrument has a zero point and then five evenly graduated marks from Zero to the "100, 200 and 300" marked points of measures. A large "V" below these pointers indicates that they represent levels of voltage. Three small screws hold the "face" in place. At the back of the meter is an aluminium "clasp" with three protruding screws (positioning fasteners) and a a screw tightening fixture for the correct fastening of the "clasp" into the correction location on the meter "board".Manufacturer's logo "CSG" underneath "ITALIA"kiewa valley tourism, victorian alps, alternate energy supplies, alpine population growth

This transformer lamp system, which has a dial to transform 240 volts to a minimum of 32 volts was used by electrical technicians to inspect internal parts of the large generators (even in small confined spaces). The reason for the reduction of the 240 volts to the 32 volts was for the safety of the inspector. The SEC Victoria Hydro Scheme's electrical generators are powered by the hydro force of "stored" water at a higher altitude. The establishment of both the NSW and Victorian Hydro schemes was achieved from the mid 1900's to the 1960's. At this the point in time the need for additional power sources to quench both an industrial and domestic demand for electricity was purely an economic and not and environmental (carbon reduction) factor. This hydro scheme was instigated by "the Government of the day" as a bold move and was the major force of the World War II refugee and "technical" workforce inclusion of skilled and unskilled migration into the Australian environment. Although this mass "invasion" of workers with families was thought of in some circles as intrusive, the expansion of population post war years and its integration into the Australian rural sector, produced the multi- lingual multi-cultural diversity of later years.This transformer lamp is very significant to the Kiewa Valley as it was introduced as a very small part of the explosion of human resources into the valley. This influx of population transformed the region from that of a basically quiet rural region to one which evolved into both industrial and larger residential community. This evolution in the valley created a change, not only in the "physical" landscape but also the socio-economic expansion which permitted other "tourist" based industries into the valley. This is also a specific electronic item which was manufactured in Melbourne and not sourced from Europe or Asia. This demonstrates the fast evolution of Australian technology to a high standard compatible to that of the rest of the world.This heavy hand held electrical transformer (transforms 240 volts to 32 Volts) an has one leather handle on the top with three small (gauze filtered) air holes. It also has two 2 pin directional cable distribution (clipsal) in/out points 10amps / 240 volts. There is one glassed in volts/ac meter and one variable switch (180 to 150 voltage in settings of 10 volt increments.There are two vents (one on each of the smaller sides). There is also one three pin electrical lead coming out from the top.On one side is a manufacturer's plaque with "ELECTRONIC A & R EQUIPMENT MELBOURNE" and underneath "TYPE 1719, PRI V. 180 250" underneath "V.A. 1250" underneath "CYC 50" underneath "SEC V. 115" underneath "SEC A. 10 . 8". The label on topside "CAUTION SET SWITCH TO 250 v BEFORE CONNECTING TO MAINS THEN, WITH EQUIPMENT OPERATING, SET METER TO RED LINE.kiewa hydro electricity scheme, victorian state electricity commission, transformers

This protection relay apparatus (a large electrical fuse), which permits the easy monitoring and disconnection of faulty electrical apparatus connected to the large SEC Victoria Hydro Scheme's electrical power producing generators. These generators are powered by the hydro force of "stored" water at a higher altitude. The establishment of both the NSW and Victorian Hydro Schemes was achieved from the early 1900's to the 1960's. At this point in time the need for additional power sources to quench both an industrial and domestic demand for electricity was purely an economic and not and environmental (carbon reduction) factor. This hydro scheme was instigated by "the Government of the day" as a bold move and was the major force of the World War II refugee and "technical" workforce inclusion of skilled and unskilled migration into the Australian environment. Although this mass "invasion" of workers with families was thought of in some circles as intrusive, the expansion of population post war years and its integration into the Australian rural sector, produced the multi- lingual multi-cultural diversity of later years.This protection relay is very significant to the Kiewa Valley as its use was introduced during the Kiewa Hydro Scheme. Although only a small apparatus it was part of the explosion of human resources into the valley. This influx of population transformed the region from that of a basically quiet rural region to one which evolved into both an industrial and a larger residential community. This evolution in the valley created a change, not only in the "physical" landscape but also the socio-economic expansion which permitted other "tourist" based industries into the valley.This protection relay unit has a black painted metal shell with four copper enclosed "prongs" fastened to the rear of the housing(from a bake-lite plate) . Between these "prongs" are four "empty" points allowing additional "screw on" bases. The front glass enclosed meter and recorder allows for the identification and automatic disconnection of any faulty equipment connected to the main power generator. This equipment acts similarly to a modern day circuit breaker found on the electrical circuit boards of residential homes.On the top section of the front panel "ASEA" to the left "Made in Sweden" and to the right "Frabrique en Suede" below this "RIS" below this a graph and next to it two columns of numbers and a pointer for each setkiewa hydro electricity scheme, victorian state electricity commission, relays, generators

This Favag Timer apparatus was a part of the first electronic control system -(1960's), in Victoria), which worked using telephone stepping selectors to convey a change in voltage providing a regulated pulse from the control centre(Mount Beauty) to the remote Power Stations opening and closing (stop/start) of various devices at the Power Station and a return signal confirmed the action taken. Testing of this unit was carried out using a "dummy" device at the remote Power Station so as not to disrupt the power plant's operation. This timer was one of many electrical apparatus connected to the large SEC Victoria Hydro Scheme's electrical power producing generators. These generators are powered by the hydro force of "stored" water at a higher altitude. The establishment of both the NSW and Victorian Hydro Schemes was achieved from the early 1900's to the 1960's. At this point in time the need for additional power sources to quench both an industrial and domestic demand for electricity was purely an economic and not and environmental (carbon reduction) factor. This hydro scheme was instigated by "the Government of the day" as a bold move and was the major force of the World War II refugee and "technical" workforce,inclusion of skilled and unskilled, migration into the Australian environment. Although this mass "invasion" of workers with families was thought of in some circles as intrusive, the expansion of population post war years and its integration into the Australian rural sector, produced the multi- lingual multi-cultural diversity of later years.This Favag Timer was one of the crucial pieces of equipment that made it possible for the Mount Beauty Terminal Station to control the operations of these Power Stations; McKay, Clover, West Kiewa Power Stations and the Dederang Terminal Station.This aluminium and anodised "FAVAG" (pulse) timer is fastened to a base structure which comes with its own metal cover that is fastened by two metal hooks. From the top of these hooks runs a thick leather "carry" strap.The instrument, itself, a small "micro motor" at one end tape feeding spool on the other. Aluminium metal structures offer a preventative barrier against any electronic spikes from static electricity sources. There are two toggle switches to the bottom right hand side and twelve coloured "pin" connection points.There is a sliding access sleeve which exposes a circuit board.with various leads fastened on each side. In front of one of this slide are two "screw in" fuses, spare fuses are in a small envelope taped above. Circuit diagrams are etched white on black background on the top face of the main structure. At the base of the back section is a two pronged input terminal. There is a fine black rubber layer (cushioning) for the mian top cover.On the cover fastened with two rivets "FAVAG" underneath in small print "Fabrique d'appareils electriques S.A." underneathe "NEUCHATEL-SUISSE". on one end is a "STATE ELECTRICITY COMMISSION OF VICTORIA" metal label screwed on.The back label has manufacturers' type and model number.sec vic kiewa hydro scheme, alternate energy supplies, alpine population growth

This specimen is part of a collection of almost 200 animal specimens that were originally acquired as skins from various institutions across Australia, including the Australian Museum in Sydney and the National Museum of Victoria (known as Museums Victoria since 1983), as well as individuals such as amateur anthropologist Reynell Eveleigh Johns between 1860-1880. These skins were then mounted by members of the Burke Museum Committee and put-on display in the formal space of the Museum’s original exhibition hall where they continue to be on display. This display of taxidermy mounts initially served to instruct visitors to the Burke Museum of the natural world around them, today it serves as an insight into the collecting habits of the 19th century. The Regent Parrot has two separate populations separated by the Nullarbor Plain: one in the Mallee regions of eastern Australia, and the other in the Wheatbelt region of southern Western Australia. Though the populations are widely separated, the birds of each region do not appear especially different, one being a little duller than the other. There are, however, other differences between the two populations, especially in how they have fared: eastern populations are endangered, while the western population is thought to be increasing. The Regent Parrot eats seeds of grasses and plants and cereal crops, especially wheat. It also eats buds and flowers, insect larvae, psyllids and lerps. It forages in pairs or small parties, usually on the ground, but also in the canopy of trees or in spilled grain on the ground. The Regent parrot is endangered in NSW and Vulnerable in VIC This Particular specimen has been mounted correctly.This specimen is part of a significant and rare taxidermy mount collection in the Burke Museum. This collection is scientifically and culturally important for reminding us of how science continues to shape our understanding of the modern world. They demonstrate a capacity to hold evidence of how Australia’s fauna history existed in the past and are potentially important for future environmental research. This collection continues to be on display in the Museum and has become a key part to interpreting the collecting habits of the 19th century.A slim parrot with a long, dusky tapering tail and back-swept wings. It is mostly yellow, with blue-black wings and tail. There is a prominent yellow shoulder patch and red patches in the wings. The bill is deep pink. It is mounted on a thin wooden branch that is attached to a wooden mount with the scientific name located Label: T.L. 430MM / W.S. 540MM / WT. 200GMS / SEX [female symbol] Mount: Polytelis / Anthopeplus / Regent Parrot taxidermy mount, regent parrot, taxidermy, animalia, burke museum, bird, parrot

This specimen is part of a collection of almost 200 animal specimens that were originally acquired as skins from various institutions across Australia, including the Australian Museum in Sydney and the National Museum of Victoria (known as Museums Victoria since 1983), as well as individuals such as amateur anthropologist Reynell Eveleigh Johns between 1860-1880. These skins were then mounted by members of the Burke Museum Committee and put-on display in the formal space of the Museum’s original exhibition hall where they continue to be on display. This display of taxidermy mounts initially served to instruct visitors to the Burke Museum of the natural world around them, today it serves as an insight into the collecting habits of the 19th century. The male Turquoise Parrot is bright green above, with a turquoise blue crown and face. A brilliant two-tone blue band around the bend of the wing contrasts with a dark, brick-red shoulder patch. Its underparts and tail edges are a rich yellow. The female is similar, but not as bright, with a whitish facial mask, no red on the wing, and a pale wing stripe. Old birds of both sexes may have orange underparts. Once common throughout many parts of eastern Australia, the Turquoise Parrot was formerly recorded from near Mackay in Queensland south to Melbourne until the 1880s, when its population suddenly crashed. It was even considered to be extinct by 1915, but populations recovered spectacularly over the next 20 years or so, and by the 1930s they were again recorded through much of their former range. Now the species can once more be seen in many parts of eastern and south-eastern Australia, though not quite as extensively as before. These birds are vulnerable in NSWThis specimen is part of a significant and rare taxidermy mount collection in the Burke Museum. This collection is scientifically and culturally important for reminding us of how science continues to shape our understanding of the modern world. They demonstrate a capacity to hold evidence of how Australia’s fauna history existed in the past and are potentially important for future environmental research. This collection continues to be on display in the Museum and has become a key part to interpreting the collecting habits of the 19th century. This Turquoise Parrot is bright green above, with a turquoise blue crown and face. A brilliant two-tone blue band around the bend of the wing contrasts with a dark, brick-red shoulder patch. Its underparts and tail edges are a rich yellow. Old birds of both sexes may have orange underparts. This particular specimen is faded with some missing feathers. It is mounted on a wooden stand with a tag wrapped around its leg.Label: 80a. / Chesnutt-shouldered Grass Parakeet / See Catalogue, page 22.taxidermy, parrot, turquoise parrot, taxidermy bird, australian bird, burke museum, trustees of australia

Hobbies are mainland birds that prefer to spend their time in forests and woodlands. They are widespread in Australia's colder eastern states, particularly Adelaide, Victoria, and Southern NSW. With a diet of bats, insects, and small birds, they use their refined wing structure, which is long and narrow in shape, more suited to speed than precision, and sharp reflexes to catch prey in mid-flight. Because they are members of the Falconidae and Falconiformes raptor families and have similar characteristics, they are frequently confused with their relative, the Peregrine Falcon. Close inspection reveals that they are half the size and have a more pronounced dark masking around the eyes. This specimen is part of a collection of almost 200 animal specimens that were originally acquired as skins from various institutions across Australia, including the Australian Museum in Sydney and the National Museum of Victoria (known as Museums Victoria since 1983), as well as individuals such as amateur anthropologist Reynell Eveleigh Johns between 1860-1880. These skins were then mounted by members of the Burke Museum Committee and put-on display in the formal space of the Museum’s original exhibition hall where they continue to be on display. This display of taxidermy mounts initially served to instruct visitors to the Burke Museum of the natural world around them, today it serves as an insight into the collecting habits of the 19th century.This specimen is part of a significant and rare taxidermy mount collection in the Burke Museum. This collection is scientifically and culturally important for reminding us of how science continues to shape our understanding of the modern world. They demonstrate a capacity to hold evidence of how Australia’s fauna history existed in the past and are potentially important for future environmental research. This collection continues to be on display in the Museum and has become a key part to interpreting the collecting habits of the 19th century.The Australian Hobby is a medium-sized bird with a falcon-like appearance, long wings, and a commanding posture and presence. This bird has a distinctive brown/black helmet on its head, as well as a mask-like face that is highlighted by the prominent white half collar. Over the top of reddish brown underpart feathers, streaks of black lined patterns decorate the protruding chest. With its squared off tail feathers, the bird's back is dark brown and appears elongated and domineering. It is perched on a wooden stand and is secured with wire that does not obscure the talons.No swing tagtaxidermy mount, taxidermy, animalia, burke museum, beechworth, australian museum, skin, reynell eveleigh johns, bird, australian birds, falcon, falconidae, falconiformes, peregrine falcon

The old Bank of New South Wales building is located on the corner of Camp and Ford streets in Beechworth, Victoria. It was constructed between 1856 and 1857 from local honey coloured granite. It was designed by architects Robertson & Hale and is a two-storey rendered brick building and the original coat of arms is still visible. The coat of arms is distinctive and consists of a kangaroo, emu, lion, and rising sun. The rear of the building was surrounded by high granite walls for security as it was the original home for the local gold office. Beechworth Honey currently offers tourist accommodation in the Hive Apartment located in the former Bank of New South Wales Managers residence.The Bank of New South Wales building in Beechworth is significant for its location in one of Australia's most prominent goldfield towns. Of particular interest is the use of distinctive local Beechworth honey coloured granite in its construction. The building’s architecture is a simple, conservative classical style known as Renaissance Revival. It is one of the few known surviving works of the architects Robertson and Hale. The decorative composition above the main entrance and the counter in the banking chamber are of special interest.Black and white rectangular photograph printed on cardAHold bank of new south wales, bank of new south wales building, beechworth bank of new south wales, bank of nsw, beechworth 1850s, robertson and hale, architects robertson and hale, rendered brick, coat of arms, granite walls, local honey coloured granite, gold office, 1856, 1857, beechworth, beechworth honey, hive apartment, manager's residence, renaissance revival

Quartz is an extremely common mineral to find across the world. Quartz can have two forms; Microcrystalline quartz or Crystalline quartz. Microcrystalline quartz is a fine grain quartz where crystalline quartz is often a large crystal. This specimen is a crystalline quartz. Made of silicon oxide, this specimen is called smokey quartz crystals because of its brownish colour. However, the colour of quartz can vary. In addition, quartz are formed in deep-seated igneous rocks and crystallized through hot aqueous solutions. This type of crystal can be found all over Australia, including Beechworth in Victoria. Other places quartz can be found is the Ashburton River area in Western Australia, Marlborough in Queensland, the Lune River area in Tasmania and Kingsgate in New South Wales. This specimen is significant because it is common to find this kind of mineral. While the location of where this specimen was originally from is unknown, it highlights the many places in Australia where quartz is found. It demonstrates that quartz makes up a large portion of Australia's geology. In addition, quartz itself can vary in its colour and shape. This specimen represents one of these variations. That being smoky quartz crystals. This specimen is part of a larger collection of geological and mineral specimens collected from around Australia (and some parts of the world) and donated to the Burke Museum between 1868-1880. A large percentage of these specimens were collected in Victoria as part of the Geological Survey of Victoria that begun in 1852 (in response to the Gold Rush) to study and map the geology of Victoria. Collecting geological specimens was an important part of mapping and understanding the scientific makeup of the earth. Many of these specimens were sent to research and collecting organisations across Australia, including the Burke Museum, to educate and encourage further study.A large hand-sized quartz mineral with shades of brown and gray throughout.Smoky quartz / crystals /locality/ unknown / (needs a wash) /BBgeological specimen, geology, geology collection, burke museum, beechworth, microcrystalline, quartz, quartz mining, quartz reefs beechworth, smokey quartz crystals, crystals, crystalline, silicon oxide, brown, colour, igneous rocks, magma, ashburton river, western australia, marlborough, queensland, lune river, tasmania, kingsgate, new south wales, nsw

Taken in Beechworth 1865, this photograph depicts a number buildings looking down Ford Street. The left side of image shows the Bank of Australia, the Post Office, the Bank of Victoria, and Howard Bookseller. The right side depicts the Oriental Bank, Albion Hotel, the Bank of NSW, and the First church in Beechworth which was the Methodist Church on the hill.Black and white rectangular photograph. Image is printed on matt photographic paper with a cardboard backing. Obverse: ALBION HOTEL, HOWARD BOOKSELLER Reverse: STREETS / (in pencil) FORD ST, BEECHWORTH / VICTORIA 1865 19972743 A02743 beechworth, ford street, bank of victoria, burke museum, 1865

In this image a Colt 1855 Revolving Rifle is placed upon a sign detailing an £8,000 reward for robbery and murder. Writing on the rear of the photograph identifies the rifle as having belonged to Joe Byrne. In colonial Victoria, the Colt brand firearm was highly popular. They began their popularity in the goldfields of the early 1850s. Individuals, particularly those coming to Victoria with prior experience in the goldfield, brought with them a means of self-defence because of the prevalence of assault and robbery on the goldfields. In the 1860s, the Colt firearm became popular among the Victorian Police force. It was decided in June 1864 by Chief Commissioner of Police, Frederick Standish that the Colt revolvers were far more practical, being of simpler construction and therefore, more easily cleaned and less dangerous than the revolvers used prior to this: the Adams and Kerr firearms. The Colt revolver remained in use in regional districts of Victoria as late as the early 1880 when they were used at the Kelly siege at Glenrowan. The £8,000 reward was issued in 1879 after the Kelly Gang committed numerous bank robberies at Euroa and Jerilderie. In the year prior, the Kelly Gang murdered three policemen at Stringybark Creek. This resulted in the creation of the “Felon’s Apprehension Act 1878” which enabled an individual, whether a part of the Police force or civilian, to shoot a declared outlaw on sight. After the bank robberies, the Police force of NSW and Victoria increased the existing reward to this £8,000 amount.This photograph is significant for what it can potentially reveal about the Kelly Gang and firearms made in this period. The rifle in the image is a Colt Revolving Rifle which was known to have been used by the Victorian Police force from the early 1850s to the late 1880s. It is also known that the Kelly Gang stole police rifles which they used to practise with and so the identification of the rifle as having belonged to Joe Byrne is of significant importance to researchers studying the firearms of the Kelly Gang. More research is needed to solidify the connection of this particular weapon to Byrne other than the handwritten note on the back of the photograph. The Burke Museum Beechworth is home to a significant collection of photographs connected to Ned Kelly and the Kelly Gang. Photographs like this one are valuable for what they can potentially reveal about the Kelly Gang and the Police force during this period. Alongside the study of the other images, photographs from this collection have the ability to further expand current knowledge on this period of Australian history. There is also the capability to provide an analysis of how these firearms and Kelly memorabilia have been received in the past. It could be beneficial to undertake a close study of the use history and reception of these artefacts within the museum context.Black and white rectangular reproduced photograph printed on matte photographic paperReverse: 10268 / Joe Byrne's / Riflekelly album, ned kelly, kelly gang, joe byrne, rewards, outlaw, criminals, bushrangers, colt, police, firearm, beechworth, reward, felon's apprehension act 1878, 1880, glenrowan, colt revolver, revolving rifle, 8000 pound reward, jerilderie, euroa, beechworth goldfield

WWI Photograph of Joseph (Joe) Maffersoni (seated) in uniform, Other uniformed soldier unknown, Born in Longwood, Victoria, occupation Labourer, enlisted in Army at Liverpool, NSW on 21/6/1915Chiltern Shire of Honor RollCopied Photograph in sepia of Joseph (Joe) Maffersoni seated, other person unknownwwi, chiltern shire honor roll, chiltern

James(Jim) Mitchell pictured in Uniform born 30/4/1890 Violet Town, Victoria, Enlisted in Liverpool, NSW. Died 4/12/1921James (Jim) Mitchell pictured in Uniform enlisted in Army during WW1Black and white copied photograph of James(Jim) Mitchell in Army uniform ww1, chiltern shire honor roll

Sent to Mrs MacDonald "Monald" 32 Grey Street Wangaratta during Second World War possibly by Arthur Vincent Gilbert born 7/2/1923 in NSW Enlisted in the Army and served mainly in the Bonegilla/Bandiana area between 1943-6. No active service outside Australia recorded. service no NX176929Victoria's 2/24th Infantry Battalion was raised in Wangaratta in July 1940. They were welcomed with open arms by the local community as they rapidly built up their numbers. The people of Wangaratta adopted the Battalion and they became known as "Wangaratta's Own" because of the time the battalion spent in the town during its formative period prior to deployment overseas. Many of the soldiers maintained life long friendships with the people of Wangaratta. Even though the Battation was disbanded in 1946 members and their families return each year, in November, for a commemorative service at the 2/24th Battalion Memorial Wall at the Wangaratta Cemetery.Cream paper envelope with hand drawing of rope around bomb with yellow strip and pilot on top. Red cross top left cornerTop left - AIR MAIL Top right - postage stamp Top centre - AIF Censor stamp Right side Mrs M MacDonald "Monald" 32 Grey Street Wangaratta Victoria Australia Bottom left side - "OK Joe Were over Toyko" Rear - 129537 ACI Gilbert A V Group 436 Flinders Island Tasmania ww2, envelope art

These men were either born, worked or enlisted at Wangaratta prior to serving their country in the First World War. There names also appear on the South Wangaratta School and District Honour Board (27) Private William John LAW 1221 - 19 years - Born Murchison in Victoria. Occupation Carpenter Next of Kin - Father John Wilson LAW of Wangaratta Joined 2-3-1916 Enlisted at Wangaratta Unit 37th Battalion. Embarked Melbourne 3-6-1916 HMAT Persic A34 Discharged 21-9-1919. Private Joseph Henry LAW 986 - 21 years Born Euroa in Victoria Occupation Labourer Next of Kin - Mother Mrs Robert (Esther) LAW of Yatte Yattah - 18 NSW Joined 29-3-1915 Enlisted at Wangaratta Unit 24th Battalion. Embarked Melbourne 10-5-1915 HMAT Euripidies A14 Killed in Action 29-7-1916 France. Private Norman William FOSTER 7785 -18 1/2 years - Born Wangaratta in Victoria Occupation Labourer Next of Kin - Sister Mrs William (Florence) McLean of Wangaratta Joined 15-7-1915 Enlisted at Melbourne Unit 54th Battalion Killed in Action 1-9-1918 France Private James Archibald McCORMICK 3195 - 19 years Born Wangaratta Occupation Engineer Next of Kin Father Samuel McCormick Enlisted Melbourne 27-7-1915 Embarked 26/11/1915 Unit 24th Battalion Killed in Action 5-8-1916 France Private Roland Caractacus HUGHES 3134(3131) - 20 years 5 months Born Wangaratta Occupation Blacksmith Next of Kin Father Roland W Hughes Joined 21-10-1915 Enlisted at Seymour 7th REIN 24th Battalion Embarked 26-11-1915 Wounded - GSW Leg and thigh RTA Discharged 11-10-1917 Private James Kelly O'CALLAGHAN 1250 - 22 years Born Mansfield Occupation Labourer Next of Kin Father John O'Callaghan Swanpool via Benalla Joined 6-3-1916 Enlisted at Wangaratta 37th/59th Battalions Embarked 3-6-1916 Wounded GSW Face and arm. RTA 30-1-1918 Discharged 2-7-1918 Private Samuel William DAVISON 6793 - 22 years 5 months Born Benalla Occupation Baker - Employer A Watson of Wangaratta Next of Kin Mother Mrs Ellen Tutty of South Wangaratta Enlisted Melbourne 3-1-1917 21/24th Battalions Embarked 11-5-1917 Wounded 9-8-1918 GSW Arm RTA 16-4-1920 (with wife) Discharged 26-7-1920 Private William Leslie HUNTER (Depot) 18 years 2 months Born Yan Yean Occupation Farmer/Labourer Next of Kin Father William James Hunter of Wangaratta Joined 18-2-1916 Enlisted Wangaratta 3-4-1916 Discharged at Seymour on 26-5-1916 Medically Unfit due to DiabetesThe school was completed in May 1875 and commenced operating as South Wangaratta State School No 1580, on the 15th June 1875 with 47 children in attendance. By the end of that year the number had grown to 72. The pupil recorded as number 98, in the school register of 1876, was Stephen Hart from the Three Mile Creek. He first attended the school at the age of 17 years and within two years he was a member of the infamous Kelly Gang. During World War I, 22 former pupils volunteered for active service and four gave their lives. Brown timber frame and mount containing eight photographs of soldiers.Photos of the following Soldiers: Pte J H Law, Pte J McCormick, Pte N Foster, Pte R Hughes, Pte W J Law, Pte J O'Callaghan, Pte S Davison, Pte W Hunterlaw, mccormick, foster, hughes, o'callaghan, davison, hunter

Personal documents and letters belonging to Lieutenant Albert John CRUISE born 13/4/1883 at Nathalia in Victoria. Educated at Geelong College. Enlisted in NSW on 29/8/1914 as Private No 86 1st Battalion. Promoted to L/cpl on 25/7/1915 then Lieutenant on 9/11/1915. He was nominated and appointed a Member of the Order of the British Empire - Military Division for conspicuous services rendered as follows:- 'During the period 16-19 September to 11th November 1918 this officer has shown conspicuous devotion to duty and great gallantry in the performance of that duty. He has organised salvage parties and was instrumental during the advance in September in making German Dumps of HE material available for use in forward positions thus saving time and transport. His work throughout has been characterised by marked individuality and courage in the forward area and has been productive of far reaching results. He served at Gallipoli and the Western Front. Due to pneumonia and enteric he returned to Australia in early 1916 to recuperate and married before returning in August 1916. In September 1919 he returned to Australia on board HMAT Takadaussie (refer item 363) and discharged on 7/11/1919. He later served full time with the CMF from 15/5/1940 - 17/10/1943. He died in 1952Parchment of Appointed to rank 2nd Lieutenant on 9/11/1915 by King George V - Document dated 26/6/1917Four large parchment documents Two Australian Military Forces certificates and one form Five original letters One copy of letter written in French Seven copies of typed letters AIF Military PassCream Parchment with embossed seal, italic script and stamped George R I dated 26/6/1917 and 3/6/1919 Cream Parchment with embossed seal, italic script issued by the Governor General and Commander-in-Chief of the Commonwealth of Australia dated 17/3/1924 and 21/4/1941 AMF Recommendation for Promotion V 84119 Lieut Cruise - form incomplete AMF Certificate of Release from War Service No 11943 - V84199 Lieut Cruise AMF Certificate of Service of an Officer No 33461 -V84119 Lieut Cruise Typed letter dated 13/10/1919 from Commonwealth of Australia Dept of Defence to Lieut Cruise referring to London Gazette extract - Member of the British Empire - Military Division Typed letter embossed with seal dated 9/6/1919 signed W Birdwood Handwritten in blue ink with "Denman Chambers" imprint top right corner letter of reference signed B V Stacy formerly Lieut. Col., Commanding 1st Bn AIF Typed letter with AIF letterhead dated 1/6/1927 Typed letter with The Gallipoli Legion of Anzacs letterhead dated 24/1/1950 Typed copy of letter of gratitude in French dated 18/6/1918 from Military Attache General Pierre de Laguiche - stamped with Statue of Liberty AIF Military Pass dated 25/6/1919 issued to Lieut Cruiselt. a j cruise mbe, ww1

Personal documents and letters belonging to Lieutenant Albert John CRUISE born 13/4/1883 at Nathalia in Victoria. Educated at Geelong College. Enlisted in NSW on 29/8/1914 as Private No 86 1st Battalion. Promoted to L/cpl on 25/7/1915 then Lieutenant on 9/11/1915. He was nominated and appointed a Member of the Order of the British Empire - Military Division for conspicuous services rendered as follows:- 'During the period 16-19 September to 11th November 1918 this officer has shown conspicuous devotion to duty and great gallantry in the performance of that duty. He has organised salvage parties and was instrumental during the advance in September in making German Dumps of HE material available for use in forward positions thus saving time and transport. His work throughout has been characterised by marked individuality and courage in the forward area and has been productive of far reaching results. He served at Gallipoli and the Western Front. Due to pneumonia and enteric he returned to Australia in early 1916 to recuperate and married before returning in August 1916. In September 1919 he returned to Australia on board HMAT Takadaussie (refer item 363) and discharged on 7/11/1919. He later served full time with the CMF from 15/5/1940 - 17/10/1943. He died in 1952Parchment of Appointed to rank 2nd Lieutenant on 9/11/1915 by King George V - Document dated 26/6/1917 Parchment of Appointment as a Member of the Military Division of the Order of the British Empire by King George V dated 3/6/1919Four large parchment documents Two Australian Military Forces certificates and one form Five original letters One copy of letter written in French Seven copies of typed letters AIF Military PassCream Parchment with embossed seal, italic script and stamped George R I dated 26/6/1917 and 3/6/1919 Cream Parchment with embossed seal, italic script issued by the Governor General and Commander-in-Chief of the Commonwealth of Australia dated 17/3/1924 and 21/4/1941 AMF Recommendation for Promotion V 84119 Lieut Cruise - form incomplete AMF Certificate of Release from War Service No 11943 - V84199 Lieut Cruise AMF Certificate of Service of an Officer No 33461 -V84119 Lieut Cruise Typed letter dated 13/10/1919 from Commonwealth of Australia Dept of Defence to Lieut Cruise referring to London Gazette extract - Member of the British Empire - Military Division Typed letter embossed with seal dated 9/6/1919 signed W Birdwood Handwritten in blue ink with "Denman Chambers" imprint top right corner letter of reference signed B V Stacy formerly Lieut. Col., Commanding 1st Bn AIF Typed letter with AIF letterhead dated 1/6/1927 Typed letter with The Gallipoli Legion of Anzacs letterhead dated 24/1/1950 Typed copy of letter of gratitude in French dated 18/6/1918 from Military Attache General Pierre de Laguiche - stamped with Statue of Liberty AIF Military Pass dated 25/6/1919 issued to Lieut Cruiselt. a j cruise mbe, ww1

Personal documents and letters belonging to Lieutenant Albert John CRUISE born 13/4/1883 at Nathalia in Victoria. Educated at Geelong College. Enlisted in NSW on 29/8/1914 as Private No 86 1st Battalion. Promoted to L/cpl on 25/7/1915 then Lieutenant on 9/11/1915. He was nominated and appointed a Member of the Order of the British Empire - Military Division for conspicuous services rendered as follows:- 'During the period 16-19 September to 11th November 1918 this officer has shown conspicuous devotion to duty and great gallantry in the performance of that duty. He has organised salvage parties and was instrumental during the advance in September in making German Dumps of HE material available for use in forward positions thus saving time and transport. His work throughout has been characterised by marked individuality and courage in the forward area and has been productive of far reaching results. He served at Gallipoli and the Western Front. Due to pneumonia and enteric he returned to Australia in early 1916 to recuperate and married before returning in August 1916. In September 1919 he returned to Australia on board HMAT Takadaussie (refer item 363) and discharged on 7/11/1919. He later served full time with the CMF from 15/5/1940 - 17/10/1943. He died in 1952Parchment of Appointed to rank 2nd Lieutenant on 9/11/1915 by King George V - Document dated 26/6/1917 Parchment of Appointment as a Member of the Military Division of the Order of the British Empire by King George V dated 3/6/1919 Two parchments issued by the Governor General and Commander in Chief of the Commonwealth of Australia Appointed Lieutenant of the Military Forces of the Defence Force of the Commonwealth from 1/1/1920 by Henry William, Baron Forster Appointed Lieutenant of the Reserve Military Forces of the Commonwealth from 13/4/1940 by Alexander Gore Arkwright, Baron GowrieFour large parchment documents Two Australian Military Forces certificates and one form Five original letters One copy of letter written in French Seven copies of typed letters AIF Military PassCream Parchment with embossed seal, italic script and stamped George R I dated 26/6/1917 and 3/6/1919 Cream Parchment with embossed seal, italic script issued by the Governor General and Commander-in-Chief of the Commonwealth of Australia dated 17/3/1924 and 21/4/1941 AMF Recommendation for Promotion V 84119 Lieut Cruise - form incomplete AMF Certificate of Release from War Service No 11943 - V84199 Lieut Cruise AMF Certificate of Service of an Officer No 33461 -V84119 Lieut Cruise Typed letter dated 13/10/1919 from Commonwealth of Australia Dept of Defence to Lieut Cruise referring to London Gazette extract - Member of the British Empire - Military Division Typed letter embossed with seal dated 9/6/1919 signed W Birdwood Handwritten in blue ink with "Denman Chambers" imprint top right corner letter of reference signed B V Stacy formerly Lieut. Col., Commanding 1st Bn AIF Typed letter with AIF letterhead dated 1/6/1927 Typed letter with The Gallipoli Legion of Anzacs letterhead dated 24/1/1950 Typed copy of letter of gratitude in French dated 18/6/1918 from Military Attache General Pierre de Laguiche - stamped with Statue of Liberty AIF Military Pass dated 25/6/1919 issued to Lieut Cruiselt. a j cruise mbe, ww1

Personal documents and letters belonging to Lieutenant Albert John CRUISE born 13/4/1883 at Nathalia in Victoria. Educated at Geelong College. Enlisted in NSW on 29/8/1914 as Private No 86 1st Battalion. Promoted to L/cpl on 25/7/1915 then Lieutenant on 9/11/1915. He was nominated and appointed a Member of the Order of the British Empire - Military Division for conspicuous services rendered as follows:- 'During the period 16-19 September to 11th November 1918 this officer has shown conspicuous devotion to duty and great gallantry in the performance of that duty. He has organised salvage parties and was instrumental during the advance in September in making German Dumps of HE material available for use in forward positions thus saving time and transport. His work throughout has been characterised by marked individuality and courage in the forward area and has been productive of far reaching results. He served at Gallipoli and the Western Front. Due to pneumonia and enteric he returned to Australia in early 1916 to recuperate and married before returning in August 1916. In September 1919 he returned to Australia on board HMAT Takadaussie (refer item 363) and discharged on 7/11/1919. He later served full time with the CMF from 15/5/1940 - 17/10/1943. He died in 1952Parchment of Appointed to rank 2nd Lieutenant on 9/11/1915 by King George V - Document dated 26/6/1917 Parchment of Appointment as a Member of the Military Division of the Order of the British Empire by King George V dated 3/6/1919 Two parchments issued by the Governor General and Commander in Chief of the Commonwealth of Australia Appointed Lieutenant of the Military Forces of the Defence Force of the Commonwealth from 1/1/1920 by Henry William, Baron Forster Appointed Lieutenant of the Reserve Military Forces of the Commonwealth from 13/4/1940 by Alexander Gore Arkwright, Baron GowrieFour large parchment documents Two Australian Military Forces certificates and one form Five original letters One copy of letter written in French Seven copies of typed letters AIF Military PassCream Parchment with embossed seal, italic script and stamped George R I dated 26/6/1917 and 3/6/1919 Cream Parchment with embossed seal, italic script issued by the Governor General and Commander-in-Chief of the Commonwealth of Australia dated 17/3/1924 and 21/4/1941 AMF Recommendation for Promotion V 84119 Lieut Cruise - form incomplete AMF Certificate of Release from War Service No 11943 - V84199 Lieut Cruise AMF Certificate of Service of an Officer No 33461 -V84119 Lieut Cruise Typed letter dated 13/10/1919 from Commonwealth of Australia Dept of Defence to Lieut Cruise referring to London Gazette extract - Member of the British Empire - Military Division Typed letter embossed with seal dated 9/6/1919 signed W Birdwood Handwritten in blue ink with "Denman Chambers" imprint top right corner letter of reference signed B V Stacy formerly Lieut. Col., Commanding 1st Bn AIF Typed letter with AIF letterhead dated 1/6/1927 Typed letter with The Gallipoli Legion of Anzacs letterhead dated 24/1/1950 Typed copy of letter of gratitude in French dated 18/6/1918 from Military Attache General Pierre de Laguiche - stamped with Statue of Liberty AIF Military Pass dated 25/6/1919 issued to Lieut Cruiselt. a j cruise mbe, ww1

Item belonging to Lieutenant Albert John CRUISE born 13/4/1883 at Nathalia in Victoria. Educated at Geelong College. Enlisted in NSW on 29/8/1914 as Private No 86 1st Battalion. Promoted to L/cpl on 25/7/1915 then Lieutenant on 9/11/1915. He was nominated and appointed a Member of the Order of the British Empire - Military Division for conspicuous services rendered as follows:- 'During the period 16-19 September to 11th November 1918 this officer has shown conspicuous devotion to duty and great gallantry in the performance of that duty. He has organised salvage parties and was instrumental during the advance in September in making German Dumps of HE material available for use in forward positions thus saving time and transport. His work throughout has been characterised by marked individuality and courage in the forward area and has been productive of far reaching results. He served at Gallipoli and the Western Front. Due to pneumonia and enteric he returned to Australia in early 1916 to recuperate and married before returning in August 1916. In September 1919 he returned to Australia on board HMAT Takadaussie (refer item 363) and discharged on 7/11/1919. He later served full time with the CMF from 15/5/1940 - 17/10/1943. He died in 1952 Insufficient detail to positively identify Lieutenant Peters - possibly Captain Gordon Peters DSO born 5/7/1894 Adelaide South Australia. The 12th Infantry were recruited from Tasmania, South Australian and Western Australia. 9 Jun 1915: Enlisted AIF WW1, Lieutenant, 12th Infantry Battalion 21 Sep 1915: Involvement Lieutenant, 12th Infantry Battalion 21 Sep 1915: Embarked Lieutenant, 12th Infantry Battalion, HMAT Star of England, Adelaide 16 May 1917: Promoted AIF WW1, Captain, 12th Infantry Battalion 27 Jul 1919: Discharged AIF WW1, Captain, 12th Infantry Battalion 15 Sep 1919: Honoured Commander of the Order of the British Empire 30 Oct 1919: Honoured Mention in Dispatches, unknownBrown canvas double sided pouch bag that opens out to reveal two clear plastic sleeves one of which has a brown cloth overlay. Attached on top is small metal ring near tear repaired by hand stitching.Handwritten under rear flap 86 L/C A J Cruise 1st Bn M.G. Handwritten inside front pouch Lt. Peters 12th Inflt. a j cruise mbe, ww1

Brooch attached inside Australian Army Soldier's pocket book belonging to Lance Sergeant Leonard Francis MULDOON VX10046 who served during WW2. Born 14/7/1909 at Condoblin NSW but enlisted at South Melbourne in Victoria.Rectangle metal brooch housing three filigree metal circles with red and blue plaited metal surround.leonard francis muldoon, ww2

Also another photo taken laterColour photograph showing McKillops Bridge across the Snowy River in the High Country near Deddick, East Gippsland near the Victorian / NSW border, south side of bridge, road to Deddick just visible opposite end, taken from west end of bridge. River flowing to right, bridge of timber, steel and concrete, mountains around. East Gippsland Victoriabridges, waterways, topography

Black and white photograph of Alps looking toward Bright, snow of closer heights, Alps VictoriaTowards Bright from the Alps Ray Love series No 15high country of victoria and nsw, topography

Published: (1934, June 26). The Age (Melbourne, Vic. : 1854 - 1954), p. 11. Published title: VICE-ROYALTY GREETS THE KING OF THE BEASTS AT THE ZOO. Published caption: Lord Huntingfield experienced a pleasant “induction ceremony” as Patron of the Royal Zoological and Acclimatisation Society yesterday, when he made a tour of the Zoological Gardens. The picture shows the Governor, accompanied by Lady Huntingfield, inspecting the King of Beasts, who is submitting to a little playful treatment from the Director of the Gardens, Mr. Wilkie, while the Director whispers in his ear that a distinguished visitor has come to see him. (Inset), is a picture of Lord Huntingfield greeting one of the Koalas. Trove article identifier: http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article204818472 Description: A man wearing a hat, scarf and overcoat reaches up to pat a koala in a tree watched by a man in a hat and suit. Research by project volunteer, Fiona Collyer: In 1932, the Zoo built an Australian native animal enclosure which visitors could enter and closely view koalas, wallabies, kookaburras and magpies all placed together. The branches of the trees in the enclosure were cut so that visitors could easily see and feed the koalas sitting in them. The cost to feed each koala fresh gum leaves was fifteen shillings per week. By 1924, Queensland was the last stronghold in Australia for the koala. They were functionally extinct in South Australia, only a few hundred in NSW, and an estimated population of 1000 animals remained in Victoria. There had been a six-month open season on koalas in Queensland in 1919 where over a million had been slaughtered, however with its vast, dense forests it was impossible to accurately know their numbers. Koala fur is tough, warm and waterproof and was in high demand from consumers in Canada, Britain and the US to make hats and gloves and for lining greatcoats. In 1927, with Queensland suffering a crippling drought and high unemployment, the cash-strapped McCormack Labor Government declared an “Open Season” on koalas and “opossums” for their skins, for the month of August. (Possums were often called “opossums” at this time but they are actually possums). There were widespread protests from many groups including the Nature Lovers League, Wild Life Preservation Society of Australia, Queensland Museum, C.W.A. Royal Australian Ornithologist Union, Boy Scouts, religious and women’s groups. There were letters to newspapers from ordinary people, editorials and pleas to women to refuse to wear or purchase koala fur. People questioned the masculinity of koala hunters as it was felt that no proper bushman or sportsman would kill such a defenceless creature. The Brisbane Courier newspaper led the campaign, devoting six columns a day to “Spare the Bear”. Author Vance Palmer sent an impassioned letter to the editor of the The Brisbane Courier, 19 July 1927: “Sir- It is be hoped that the disgust which all humane people have felt at the declaration of an open season for native bears in August will not be allowed to fade away until some protest... so overwhelming and effective that the question will never be raised again. For the shooting of our harmless and loveable native bear is nothing less than barbarous. His case is entirely different from that of other furred animals. No one has ever accused him of spoiling the farmers’ wheat, eating the squatters’ grass or even spreading the prickly pear. There is not a social vice that can be put down to his account. In addition, he is comparatively defenceless. He affords no sport to the gunman, and can be trusted to present a sitting target to the creature mean enough to aim at him. For this reason he has been almost blotted out already from some areas, in days when our fauna and flora were held in such little regard that the settlers’ first instinct was to shoot every strange animal and to sink his axe into every unfamiliar tree.” The Anglican Archbishop of Brisbane, Gerald Sharp, had his letter published in The Brisbane Courier on 16 July 1927: “Sir... The extermination of fauna so distinctive of our country, especially of such harmless and pretty creatures as our native bears, seems to me a shameful thing, and this is likely to mean their extermination.” But it was all to no avail. Known as “Black August”, the government was unmoved by the public’s outrage. 10,000 licences were issued to hunters and “the slaughter of the innocents” went ahead. The newspapers were full of stories of dreadful cruelty against the helpless, benign creatures by the heartless hunters who not only used guns and spotlights but wire snares and cyanide baits so that pelts wouldn’t be damaged. Infant koalas were left orphaned and unlikely to survive without their mothers. Top quality pelts were sold at an average price of 56 shillings and 9 pence per dozen, poor quality skins for as little as 2 1/2 pence each. In December 1927, the Minister for Agriculture and Stock, Mr W. Forgan Smith told the Parliament that during the August open season 597,985 koala pelts worth £139,595 had netted the state’s coffers £6000. 952,194 “opossum” pelts were sold and £9000 made for the State. The backlash that followed helped topple the Queensland Labor Government in 1929. The Wild Life Preservation Society of Australia lobbied the Prime Minister Mr Stanley Bruce to refuse to issue exportation permits for koala pelts and from 10 November 1927 the Commonwealth Government suspended the issuing of permits. In 1930, the Society made a direct appeal to USA President Herbert Hoover and he signed an order prohibiting the importation of koala and wombat fur to USA, eliminating a major market. Koala pelts were often deliberately mislabelled “wombat” to get around restrictions. The ban most likely saved the koala from probable extinction. Three years later the Australian Federal Government banned the export of koala products. This movement against koala killing was really the first conservation campaign in Australia. It raised awareness of the vulnerability of a beloved animal and eventually brought about national parks and national laws for their protection. By 1936, community opposition to possum open seasons was beginning. The koala was made a Protected Species in all states in 1937, meaning no one is allowed to harm a koala, however the laws protecting the gum trees they rely on for food and shelter are weak. The Australian Government estimates the wild koala population in Australia is between 225,000 and 500,000 in 2024. The Australian Koala Foundation estimates the national population at less than 60,000 in 2021 with a 30% decline in three years. Habitat loss from land clearing, dog attacks, road deaths, chlamydia, bushfires and drought exacerbated by climate change, continues to cause their decline. Over eight million koalas were killed for their pelts between 1888 and 1927. Any one of the annual harvests killed more koalas than are alive now. At this time, children were also being taught to appreciate Australian native animals. In 1933, “Blinky Bill: The Quaint Little Australian” book for children was published by Angus and Robertson. It was written and illustrated by New Zealand-born author Dorothy Wall and “Dedicated to my son Peter and all other Peters and Johns and Bobs and Toms and Marys and Bettys and Joans and Pats and all kind children.” The book tells the story of Blinky Bill - a mischievous, patched knickerbocker-wearing koala and his mother and father. The story has messages of conservation and instances of human unkindness and cruelty. Mr. and Mrs. Koala and young Blinky lead a mostly idyllic family life amongst a variety of other animals in the forest. However it all changes in chapter two, when Blinky Bill’s father is distressingly shot by a hunter. There is a harrowing description of Mr. Koala’s shooting and eventual death. “The Koala family lived so happily; never thinking of harm, or that anything could happen to disturb their little home, as all they asked for were plenty of fresh gum-leaves and the warm sun. They had no idea such things as guns were in the world or that a human being had a heart so cruel that he would take a pleasure in seeing a poor little body riddled with bullets hanging helplessly from the tree-top... That same being might just as well take his gun and shoot baby kookaburras, so helpless were they all and so trusting.” “Poor Mr. Koala one day was curled up asleep in his favourite corner, when the terrible thing happened. Bang! He opened his eyes in wonder. What was that? Did the limb of the tree snap where that young cub of his was skylarking? ... bang! again. This time he felt a stinging pain in his leg... Peering over the bough of the tree he saw a man on the ground with something long and black in his arms... Another bang and his ear began to hurt. Bang! again and now his little body was stinging all over. He grunted loudly and slowly climbed up the tree, calling Mrs. Koala and Blinky as he went. He managed to reach the topmost branch... Tears were pouring down his poor little face. He brushed them away with his front paws and cried just like a baby. Fortunately Mrs. Koala and Blinky Bill were hiding in the leaves quite motionless, and the shadows of the tree made them appear as part of it. The man with the gun stood and waited a long time, then walked away, whistling as he went - the only sound to be heard in the bush except the cries of the little bear far up in the tree.” Blinky and his mother quietly and fearfully wait for Mr. Koala to wake. In the morning, grunting and crying, they feel his lifeless body with their paws. Eventually Mrs. Koala realises that her husband is dead and that they need to move to a safe place. After travelling deeper into the forest, Mrs. Koala and Blinky meet koalas Mrs. Grunty and her son Snubby and she describes how she was captured as a baby by koala fur trappers to be a pet for a little girl. The trapper forgot to bring gum leaves for the koala so they try to feed her cake, milk and bananas, making her sick. The little girl’s father relays something he read in the paper: “During the year 1920 to 1921, two hundred and five thousand six hundred and seventy-nine koalas were killed and their skins sold to the fur market, under the name of wombat.” They place the koala in a box with a teddy bear for company. The baby koala’s health deteriorates and the alarmed trapper returns her to the bush. Mrs. Grunty tells Mrs. Koala that she and Blinky are the only bears that she has seen for ten years: “I remember well the little girl’s father telling her... that not so many years ago the bush was alive with us bears, from Queensland to the south of Victoria. Now, we are so rare that we have become a curiosity, something to put in zoos, for children to see; and actually in museums. I believe our grandparents sit there in glass cases, stuffed with something inside to make them appear alive, and, oh dear, glass eyes. In New South Wales, I think we could wander for miles from one corner to another and never meet a bear. I don’t know why we were all killed. As you know, we don’t eat the farmers’ crop or ruin their orchards. All we asked for were our own gum-trees.” At the end of the book, Dorothy tells her readers - “The kindest action of all would be to leave the koala baby in his own bushland, among his own playmates, with the sun, the sky, the birds, and the gum-trees, where he will grow to manhood and live for many years - happy as he should be.” In 1934, a “Wild Zoo”, the Sir Colin Mackenzie Sanctuary, opened on 32 hectares of land, formerly part of Coranderrk Aboriginal Reserve in the Yarra Valley, exclusively displaying Australian native animals, birds and reptiles. It was later renamed Healesville Sanctuary and is now managed by Melbourne Zoo and home to over 200 species of Australian native fauna. The Sanctuary is committed to rescuing, breeding, researching and raising awareness of the vulnerability of Australian animals. Andrew Arthur Wellesley Wilkie, 1853-1948, was Director of the Melbourne Zoo from 1923 to 1936 and was associated with the zoo for 70 years. He first worked as a horticultural assistant to Government botanist Baron Ferdinand von Mueller at the Botanical Gardens at the age of 13, along with his older brother David. One of Andrew’s jobs was to capture moths for the National Herbarium. In 1857, a group of prominent Melburnians assembled at St. Patrick’s Hall to form the Zoological Society of Victoria, with the aim of introducing animals and plants from overseas. It was conceived, “For the purposes of science and for that of affording the public the advantages of studying the habits of the animal creation in properly arranged zoological gardens.” The Victorian Government granted 32 acres (13 hectares) of land to the Zoological Society at the southern end of Richmond Paddock on the opposite bank to the Botanical Gardens. (This is where AAMI Stadium and Collingwood Football Club now stand.) In 1861, the Zoological Society of Victoria was renamed The Acclimatisation Society of Victoria. Unfortunately the Yarra River frontage was damp, swampy and subject to flooding, so the animals were briefly housed at the Botanical Gardens until in 1862, the City of Melbourne donated 55 acres (22 hectares) of land at Royal Park for the fledgling zoo. Baron von Mueller secured employment at Royal Park for Andrew and David and they helped to lay out the gardens, plant trees and take care of a collection of deer, pheasants, hares and partridges. Initially the zoo was used for the acclimatisation of animals recovering from the long voyage to Australia and for breeding them for sport. In 1872, the zoo bought two lions, a leopard and a cheetah that had been seized from circus showmen Keith and Phillips when they were unable to pay the bill of butcher Mr T K Bennet of Bourke Street. The first zoo director, Mr. Albert Le Souef, negotiated with captains of ships to buy animals at overseas ports they visited and soon a multitude of exotic species arrived, including a ten-year-old Indian elephant in 1878. In 1923, after being head keeper for some years, Andrew was appointed director of the zoo. By 1933, the zoo had 110 different species of animals, 200 species of birds and 72 species of reptiles under Andrew’s care. He had personally planted all but six trees and laid out the garden beds. As director he lobbied authorities for funds to build more humane enclosures for the animals. In June 1928, Table Talk magazine wrote of Andrew Wilkie: “Up at the Zoo there is a humble gentleman who is a lion among the lions, who knows the proper specific to employ when the boa constrictor has chilblains, and who is a friend and confidant of Queenie the elephant. His fount of zoological lore has never been plumbed. It is bottomless, like his good fellowship and geniality. Every day he may be seen somewhere in the grounds of that growing sanctuary for the strange and arresting fauna and creeping things of the world, and I assure you as one who is privy to his passion that that area and its inhabitants are rarely out of his thoughts.” Andrew retired from the zoo in 1936 at the age of 83 and in 1948 died at his home in Brunswick aged 94. He and his wife Josephine had six children. The Victorian Acclimatisation Society was founded in 1861 by Edward Wilson, 1813-1878, then owner and editor of The Argus newspaper. He said that Australian indigenous animals were practically useless, providing only “a little sport and an occasional meal”. The Society believed that Australia’s plants and animals were vastly inferior to those in Europe. They wanted to introduce and acclimatise to Victoria “all innoxious animals, birds, fishes, insects and vegetables, whether useful or ornamental” for sport and for the table, and to spread indigenous animals and plants from the colony around the world. Their motto was “if it lives, we want it”. The Society was primarily responsible for introducing sparrows, starlings, sambar and hog deer, ostriches, brown trout, blackberries, and carp to the Murray River. They released the European songbirds, thrush and blackbird to quell the homesickness of British settlers. The Society also sent Australian animals like platypus, echidnas, kangaroos and koalas to Europe for scientific and novelty purposes. Thomas Austin, a wealthy sheep farmer of Barwon Park, Winchelsea (property now owned by the National Trust) was a member and in 1859 he introduced hares, blackbirds, thrushes and partridges onto his property. He is probably best known for introducing 24 breeding rabbits onto his estate as game for shooting parties. Thomas quipped, “The introduction of a few rabbits could do little harm and might provide a touch of home, in addition to a spot of hunting." In 2022, genomic data confirmed that Australia’s feral rabbit population is entirely descended from these rabbits. Biological control has brought the rabbit population down from an estimated high of 10 billion rabbits in the 1920s to approximately 200 million today, inhabiting 70% of Australian landmass (5.3 million square kilometres). In 1872, the Acclimatisation Society was renamed The Zoological and Acclimatisation Society of Victoria and they focused on importing exotic animals for display purposes to the zoo. In 1937, the Royal Acclimatisation Society of Victoria was recreated as the Zoological Board of Victoria with a focus on research of native animals threatened with extinction. In an editorial for The Argus newspaper, 16 March 1856, Edward Wilson lamented: "...this country has been shamelessly stolen from the blacks. Had they been like the New Zealanders or the North American Indians, we should have bought their land, and supplied them with the means of living when we took it... In less than twenty years we have nearly swept them off the face of the earth. We have shot them down like dogs. In the guise of friendship we have issued corrosion sublimate in their damper, and consigned whole tribes to the agonies of an excruciating death. We have made them drunkards, and infected them with disease which has rotted the bones of their adults, and made such few children as are born amongst them a sorrow and a torture from the very instant of their birth. We have made them outcasts on their own land, and are rapidly consigning them to entire annihilation. There are but a few of them left, comparatively. This is what we would do for that few. We would feed and clothe every one of them.” [Note: this last sentence is italicized in the original newspaper article text]. Lord Huntingfield, (William Charles Arcedeckne Vanneck) 1883-1969, Governor of Victoria 1934-1939, was a British Conservative Party politician and the first ever Australian-born Governor of an Australian state (although he was always considered British). He was patron of the Royal Zoological and Acclimatisation Society of Victoria and was acting Governor-General for six months during the absence of Lord Gowie in 1938. Lady Huntingfield (née Margaret Eleanor Crosby) 1884-1943, his American-born wife showed great interest in social welfare and the advancement of women and children. She was president of the City Newsboys Society and Patroness of the Girls Friendly Society. In 1937, rose breeder Alister Clark named a yellow hybrid tea rose for her. In 1940, the City of Melbourne opened the Lady Huntingfield Free Kindergarten in North Melbourne, now the Lady Huntingfield Early Learning and Family Services Centre. Lady Huntingfield died in London in 1943 after her house was bombed during a German airstrike. The Lady Huntingfield Memorial Scholarship was established after the City of Melbourne raised £1000 in a public appeal conducted in her memory for students undertaking a Social Work degree at the University of Melbourne. It is awarded annually to this day. The Queen Victoria Hospital named a bed in her honour. References: VICE-ROYALTY GREETS THE KING OF BEASTS AT THE ZOO. (1934, June 26). The Age (Melbourne, Vic. : 1854 - 1954), p. 11. Retrieved August 23, 2024, from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article204818472 Prominent Personalities ANDREW WILKIE (1928, June 7). Table Talk (Melbourne, Vic. : 1885 - 1939), p. 15. Retrieved August 29, 2024, from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article146562949 'Edward Wilson (journalist)', Wikipedia, https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Edward_Wilson_(journalist) 'Thomas Austin (pastoralist)', Wikipedia, https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Thomas_Austin_(pastoralist) 'The Acclimatisation Society was driven by misguided ideals about 'fixing nature' in Australia', ABC News, https://www.abc.net.au/news/2022-11-04/acclimatisation-society-introduced-species-history-listen/101588262?utm_campaign=abc_news_web&utm_content=link&utm_medium=content_shared&utm_source=abc_news_web Blinky Bill: the quaint little Australian (eBook); by Dorothy Wall, 1933, 2023, Project Gutenberg Australia, https://gutenberg.net.au/ebooks04/0400571h.html "Black August": Queensland's Open Season on koalas in 1927 (thesis); Glenn Fowler, 1993, Australian National University, https://www.savethekoala.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/11/Black-August.pdf Unfair game: Queensland's Open Season on koalas in 1927; Jacqui Donegan, 2000, University of Queensland, https://mesto-ku.narod.ru/koalas.pdf OPEN SEASON CONDEMNED. (1927, July 19). The Brisbane Courier (Qld. : 1864 - 1933), p. 15. Retrieved September 5, 2024, from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article21863465 COUNTRY WOMEN'S ASSOCIATION. (1927, July 30). The Brisbane Courier (Qld. : 1864 - 1933), p. 25. Retrieved September 20, 2024, from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article21866965 AUSTRALIA: Barnardo's children at Melbourne Park Zoo (1929), British Pathé, YouTube, https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_Wcrbo_cHpI 'Kodak Cinegraph Compilation No 8', ACMI Collection, https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MCrBng5RwFI KOALA SKINS. EXPORT BAN SOUGHT. (1927, August 4). The Brisbane Courier (Qld. : 1864 - 1933), p. 10. Retrieved September 15, 2024, from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article21868746 THE ABORIGINES. (1856, March 16). The Argus (Melbourne, Vic. : 1848 - 1957), p. 5. Retrieved September 28, 2024, from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article4833244 Koala Bears (1937), British Pathé, YouTube, https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XbqgMtyuzwE Australian Koala Bear (Earliest Archive Footage: 1929), Pond5, https://www.pond5.com/stock-footage/item/152767491-australian-koala-bear-earliest-archive-footage-1929Photographer notations on slide: "Vice Regal visit to zoo B42".1930-1939, zoos, governors, koalas, conservation, possums, botanic gardens