Warrnambool Tourist Maps collected over the years by Warrnambool Historical Society membersPreservation of local maps for historical purposesEnclosed in A4 size plastic envelopes in an A4 size archival box and numbered and catalogued according to the date of acquisition.This collection has 16 pamphlets containing maps of Warrnambool and district and some accompanying printed materialwarrnambool tourism, city of warrnambool, shipwreck coast tourismwarrnambool tourism, city of warrnambool, shipwreck coast tourism

Short tailed shearwaters and Little Penguins, nesting in burrows on the coast during the warmer months of the year, are extremely vulnerable to fires. Phillip Island had a history of fires on foreshores – either deliberately or accidentally lit. This article describes 2 accidentally lit fires on consecutive days at the Phillip Island Penguin Parade rookeries during the height of the breeding and tourist season in January 1967. The vital importance of volunteers such as the country Fire authority members and the local surfing community, is alluded to in this article by well-known naturalist and author from the time, Graham Pizzey. The Victorian government’s chief secretary, Arthur Rylah, reported here seeking an investigation into the fires at what he terms: “one of the best conservation projects we have done”, was a prominent Victorian politician for many years.This article is significant for demonstrating a growing awareness of the vulnerability of ground nesting birds, of the importance in volunteers such as members of the local country Fire authority and Phillip Island surfing community partnering with wildlife management bodies to protect ground nesting birds, in particular the Penguin and short tailed shearwater rookeries at the Phillip Island Penguin Parade and other parts of Phillip Island. The article also reflects the growing awareness by the Victorian government of the importance of the Phillip Island Penguin Parade to the Victorian tourism economy. Written by naturalist Graham Pizzey, wrote regularly for the Melbourne Herald, the article is another example of how this journalist frequently emphasised Phillip Island’s flora and fauna in his newspaper column.Photocopy made in 1980s of newspaper cutting. Black print and black and white images of original photograph of author Graham Pizzey within the article.5/1/67little penguins, fairy penguins, eudyptula minor, phillip island penguin parade, graham pizzey, penguin rookery, penguin behaviour, phillip island tourist attractions, short tailed shearwaters, phillip island conservation society, arthur rylah, victorian government, phillip island cfa, phillip island surfers, fires on foreshores

Villa Fortuna is described as having unprecedented local historical importance and whimsical architecture, making it a cultural asset for Bendigo. Saving the villa requires a bold and visionary individual or group willing to take on the challenges of restoration, including significant financial and logistical commitments. If restored, the villa could become a major attraction, hosting events, tours, and community activities that would benefit the local economy and tourism sector. The main obstacle is not whether the villa should be saved, but what sacrifices—financial and otherwise—are necessary to achieve this goal. The Villa Fortuna Action Group has developed a plan for the site, but more stakeholders may become involved. The Department of Defence, current owner, is proceeding cautiously with no urgency to sell. The upcoming public opening is seen as a potential turning point, with the document stressing that Bendigo cannot afford to lose this historic property, regardless of the cost. Mayor Kevin Gibbins opposes transforming Fortuna Villa into an arts and cultural precinct, as proposed by the Villa Fortuna Action Group. He believes the property should address local needs such as aged care, dementia, disabilities, and respite for carers. Gibbins emphasizes these are his personal views, not official council policy. Gibbins is concerned about the council's ability to finance the maintenance of the large property, even if acquired at no cost. He questions the justification for using ratepayers' money for new arts projects when there is already a masterplan for the existing art gallery that requires significant funding and staged development. The Villa Fortuna Action Group is the only organization with a public proposal for the site, aiming to create an arts and cultural precinct similar to Melbourne's Abbotsford Convent.The group plans to present its vision to newly elected councillors. The Department of Defence is preparing Fortuna Villa in Bendigo for sale, likely early next year. A tentative timeline suggests most site assessments will be drafted by Christmas, with finalization expected in the new year. Thorough assessments are underway to understand the site's characteristics, including heritage and environmental aspects.These assessments are detailed and time-consuming to ensure accuracy and completeness. An open day for the public and media is part of the ongoing community consultation process. Additional consultation activities are planned but not yet finalized. The City of Greater Bendigo is a key stakeholder in the disposal process and will receive relevant site information.The property has not yet been valued.Fortuna Article - "Great Bravery is now required for villa" - The Bendigo Advertiser Friday Dec 05 2008 by Nino Bucci This item contains the following: 11217.24a Colour Photo of the stained glass window on the staircase 11217.24b Colour Photo of David French outside the villa 11217.24c Colour Photo of the Grand conservatory 11217.24d Part of page 14 - Article "Great Bravery is now required for villa" 11217.24e Part of page 14 - Article "Mayor defends his view for the site" 11217.24f Part of page 14 - Article "Fortuna's future is one step closer"non-fictionbendigo, fortuna, george lansell, villa fortuna action group, myor of bendigo kevin gibbins

This document by Beverley Carter, (Lansell family historian) explores the future potential of Fortuna Villa in Bendigo, emphasizing its significance for community, tourism, and economic development. The Defence Department has vacated Fortuna Villa after more than 60 years. There is an opportunity for public ownership, with state or local government having first refusal, ensuring community access. Fortuna Villa could become a major asset for Bendigo, enhancing its profile and supporting economic growth. Cultural tourism is highlighted as a rapidly growing sector, with visitors who stay longer and spend more. The success of recent cultural events in Bendigo, such as the Golden Age of Couture exhibition, demonstrates the city's capacity to attract international attention. The Villa Fortuna Action Group proposes transforming the site into a hub for cultural, commercial, and community activities. Suggested uses include concerts, festivals, exhibitions, heritage tours, retail outlets, community meetings, conferences, weddings, and fine dining. The document references successful models like Abbotsford Convent and Werribee Mansion in Victoria, and Hylands House in the UK, as examples of adaptive reuse. While acknowledging significant short-term costs, the document argues that long-term financial and social benefits outweigh these concerns. The project is seen as a way to diversify the local economy, create jobs, and foster business partnerships.The author rejects the notion that tough economic times should prevent investment, suggesting such projects can help mitigate downturns. Fortuna Villa is presented as a once-in-a-lifetime chance for Bendigo to secure a property that symbolizes the city's golden past. The author stresses the importance of a comprehensive, coordinated approach to tourism in the region, with Fortuna Villa as a potential centerpiece.Urgency: There is a strong call to action, suggesting that the community must act quickly to secure the property before it is lost to others. The document is authored by Beverley Carter, a member of the Lansell family, who is writing a detailed family history and a series on George Lansell and Fortuna Villa, further underlining the site's historical importance.Fortuna Articles - "A Vision for Fortuna Villa" Feb 20 2009 The Bendigo Advertiser by Beverley Carter, photo by Julian Prowd This item contains the following: 11217.36a Colour Photo of Fortuna 11217.36b Part of Page 14 - "A Vision for Fortuna Villa" 11217.36c Part of Page 14 - "A Vision for Fortuna Villa"non-fictionbendigo, fortuna, george lansell, villa fortuna action group, beverley carter