Prior to the election of female Councillors and Mayors in the 1960’s, the Lady Mayoress role was one of the few ways women could officially undertake civic duties. Mayoresses made important contributions to their local communities through their charity work and as ambassadors for their region on a state and federal level. They also undertook some Mayoral duties on occasions when their husband was unavailable. Ellen May Turner (Nell) was born in 1925 and died in 2008 aged 83. Reproduction of photographic studio portrait sitting behind oval mount.lr; Mrs R. F. Turner / Mayoress 1965 - 66 / Martin Washingtoncity of bendigo mayoress, city of greater bendigo portraits, city of bendigo mayor, martin washington photography, mayoress turner, mayor r.f. turner, lansell pendant