Alexander Wright was born on 25 August, 1898 in Smeaton He was the brother of musician Frank Wright. Alex Wright was killed whilst performing at the Birmingham Empire as the result of a German air Attack in October 1940. The theatre had a direct hit. According to Frank Wright Alex was a great impersonator with a unique range Bass - tenor with many accents (not unlike Peter Dawson) "AUSTRALIAN CARUSO Smeaton Boy's Fame Andre Navarre, who left Australia about three years ago to study opera in Europe, bids fair to take a place among the world's great tenors. A few months ago Navarre sang for Melba for the first time, and she immediately acclaimed him to be a finished artist, describing his voice as the nearest approach to the immortal Caruso she had ever heard, writes the Ballarat "Courier." Andre Navarre is, however, only a stage name adopted by Alexander Wright, a son of Mr. and Mrs. William. Wright, of Armstrong street North, Ballarat, and brother of Mr. Frank Wright and Mrs. William Ritchie, of that city. Born at smeaton 31 years ago, in what may be termed a musical atmosphere; Alex. Wright showed a definite desire to sing at a very early age, and in his boyhood figured as soloist at school concerts, etc. His youth was spent around Smeaton, working at home and at various farms in the district until he was about 19 years of age, when he secured a position at the Dunlop rubber works, Melbourne. Up to this period Wright had no vocal training whatever, but being the possessor of a good resonant baritone voice, was persuaded by some of his friends to "have a go at the stage.'' Securing a position in the chorus of "Maid of the Mountains," which was at that time showing at the Theatre Royal, he soon made his voice heard to advantage, and also commenced to take lessons from Signor Robottaro. It was about this time that Wright was invited by a fellow musician to a musical evening at which a member of Rigo's grand opera company, then performing at " The Playhouse," was also present. Hearing Wright sing, the musician immediately said : ' You're a fool to waste your time in a chorus with that voice. Rigo is looking for a singer like you for the role of 'Figaro' in 'Barber of Seville'." Alex, however, did not take the remark seriously, and it was only after the numerous persuasions of friends who obviously knew the real value of his voice that the modest young man was eventually induced to meet Rigo. The Italian maestro was so delighted with the voice that without hesitation he was given the principle role of "The Barber" to study. Many singers having previously been tried and rejected for the part, Wright was astonished at his success in being chosen, and awakened suddenly to the fact by the maestro that a world voice, if properly trained, would surely develop in the young artist, Alex at once settled down to study, and all day long in his boarding house at St. Kilda could be heard rehearsing his new role. In less than a month he had completely mastered the part, and on the opening night, in the exacting role of "The Barber," he was an outstanding success. Later, he toured Australia with many leading artists, including Elsa Stralia and Harry Lauder, and spent his last two years in Sydney, where he was engaged as soloist in the biggest picture house. Realising that a training in Italy and on the Continent was essential for a successful operatic singer, the young artist decided to go overseas to continue his studies. He did not leave Australia, however, before he gratuitously gave a concert in his little home town to the obvious delight of all his old friends, who flocked from all parts of the district to hear him. The hall was packed to overflowing , and so pleased was Alex with the tumultuous reception he received that he sang fewer than 20 songs. Once in Italy, he lost no time in placing himself under the tuition of Cottone, and it was at the studio of this maestro that he met Toti dal Monte, a former protege of the same master. Two years were spent in Italy, when "Navarre" learned to speak the Italian language fluently, and acquired a wide knowledge of the operas. He sang in Milan about a year ago, and was paid some glowing tributes by the Italian Press critics, who likened his voice to that of Caruso. From Italy he went to Paris, where he met John Brownlee and many other famous singers. The critics on the Continent are unanimous that Andre Navarre-the unassuming Smeaton boy, whom his schoolmates still affectionately call "Hock"--is destined to become one of the luminaries in music history. It is interesting to recall some facts concerning the remarkable family from which this artist springs. Four other members have won championship honors in the musical world. Mr. Frank Wright has the Australasian cornet championship to his credit ; Mr. Norman Wright, of Sydney, has won a tenor championship of New Zealand, and has recorded for the Columbia Gramophone Company ; Mrs. Wm. Ritchie ( formerly Miss Laura Wright) won the A.N.A. contralto championship in Melbourne; whilst the oldest member, Lydia (Mrs. C. Cane, now in N.Z.) won the violin championship at South Street when 17 years of age. Last year Mrs. and Mr. Wright celebrated their golden wedding. Both of the old folk are intensely musical, and it has been said that the voice of the mother, although entirely untrained, showed in her earlier days glimpses of the beautiful quality which made Melba famous. Andre Navarre does not propose leaving the Continent for some time. Recently he was offered a 12 months' contract to sing in London for £2500 but on the advice of Melba and his coach, it was refused on the grounds that yet another 12 months' French study was necessary to ensure absolute perfection. That "Alex " has lost none of his school-boy wit is evinced by his own jocular remark that he has "a top C sharp that will crack every window in the Sydney Town Hall!" (Horsham Times, 20 February 1931) "AUSTRALIAN KILLED An Australian, Alexander Wright, radio variety star, who toured Europe and Australia under the pseudonym of Navarre, was killed during a recent air raid in a Midland . town. His broth-er, Frank Wright, is musical director for the London County council."(Border Morning Mail, 22 Oct 1940) Black and white image of Smeaton born Alexander Wright whose professional name was Navarre "Prince of Mimics". alexander wright, alec wright, navarre

Frank Wright was a renown resident of Smeaton, where he was born on 2 August 1901. He, Alex and their siblings lived at Laura Villa, and attended Smeaton State School. His father William was a gold miner and his mother's name was Sarah. Their family won many singing and instrumental awards. Frank was tutored by Percy Code and was awarded a gold medal for the highest marks in the ALCM examinations in the British Colonies at the age of seventeen years. He became the Australian Open Cornet Champion by the age of eighteen. A year later, Frank conducted the City of Ballarat Band, and later the Ballarat Soldiers’ Memorial Band. He formed the Frank Wright Frisco Band and Frank Wright and his Coliseum Orchestra. These bands won many South Street awards, and Frank as conductor won many awards in the Australian Band Championship contest. In 1933 Frank Wright sailed to England to conduct the famous St Hilda’s Band and was later appointed Musical Director of the London County Council, where he organized many amazing concerts in parks, in and around the London district. He was made Professor of Brass and Military Band Scoring and conducted at the Guildhall of Music and Drama. Frank was often invited to adjudicate Brass Band Championships around Europe, in Australia, including South Street and in New Zealand. The Frank Wright Medal at the Royal South Street competition is awarded to an individual recognized as making an outstanding contribution to brass music in Australia. Alex Wright travelled to England in 1930 and was known as the Prince of Mimic. His stage name was Navarre. He died in an air-raid in the Hippodrome Birmingham in 1940.Two men dressed in trousers and shirt sleeves and carrying hats are standing in on the grassy bank of a pool fed by a waterfall. The men are Frank Wright on the right and his brother Alex on the left.frank wright, alex wright, waterfall, conductor, navarre, alexander wright, mimic

This is a programme for the first day performance of Frank Wright's brother Alex, who went under the stage name of Navarre ," Prince of Mimics"Art work in cone on cream paper with dark blue writingalex, navarre, prince of mimics, frank wright

A Scott Daniels Signature tennis racquet, with string whipping around shoulders and shaft, and leather handle grip with X-formation perforations. Manufactured to mimic the Wilson models of the late 1960's- early 1970's. Materials: Wood, Nylon, Ink, Glue, Lacquer, Metal, Leather, Enamel, Plastic, Stringtennis

Eternal Flame was created by Ballarat sculptor Peter Blizzard as a marker of the end of WWII in the Pacific. Engraved into the bluestone shaped tile across the base of the statue is details about conflict areas where Australian Troops were active. The metal structure mimics a moving flame with it's polished golden hue, a feature included in many war memorials around the world. Peter Blizzard also designed the Prisoner of War Memorial in the South Gardens, Ballarat Botanic Gardens. The metal structure mimics the moving flame of polished golden hue that is present in war memorials around the world. Eternal flame is aesthetically and historically significant to the people of BallaratMetal construction on bluestone tile baseConflict areas for Australian Troops are engraved into bluestone shaped tile across the base of the statue. eternal flame, world war ii, conflict, peter blizzard, australian sculpture

Wooden model of Specimen Cottage, Hargreaves Street, Bendigo.Model is painted white, with brown painted roof. The roof is designed to mimic the profile of the Morecomb and Rogers metal tiles on the original building. Model of cottage was for sale at the Bendigo Market in early 2018 where the donor, John Williams purchased it for the Bendigo Historical Society. Written on 'icypole stick' stuck on front of model 'Specimen Cottage 1856' in black ink. Heritage Victoria listing in historical details field.bendigo, buildings, specimen cottage

This parasol belonged to Clara Johnstone Miller (nee Bell, 1866-1910). Clara was the only daughter of Mr James Bell, a councillor of the Shire of Leigh (today a part of Golden Plains Shire) and owner of Woolbrook Homestead in Teesdale, near Geelong. In 1888, Clara married prominent businessman, racehorse owner, racing identity and pastoralist Septimus Miller (1854-1925). Septimus was the sixth of seven children born to Henry 'Money' Miller and Eliza Miller (nee Mattinson). 'Money' Miller was a well known financier and politician and reputedly one of Australia's wealthiest people in his time. In 1889, Clara and Septimus moved into the house 'Cantala' in Dandenong Road, Caulfield. They had one child, Gwendoline Stewart Miller, who died in 1902 at the age of thirteen of diabetes - a largely untreatable condition at the time (insulin would not be discovered until 1921). Clara died in 1910, aged only 44. Septimus subsequently married Helen (nee Henderson), with whom he had a son, Ronald (1915-1990). The Millers were buried in the Brighton General Cemetery in a large Gothic-style vault. Upon Clara's death, Septimus sent much of her clothing and Gwendoline's to her mother Mary Bell. Some of these items were passed down to two of Clara's nieces, Miss Mary Bell and Mrs Lois Lillies, who donated them to BHS around 1973.A black silk, wood and ivory handled parasol from circa 1900. The black silk of the parasol body has been treated with a decorative hemstitch towards the lower edge. The handle and frame are made of wood, metal and either ivory or an early plastic designed to mimic ivory. The ivory section is carved with a design reminiscent of a palm tree trunk and finished with a ball. The handle also features a leather looped strap that the hand would pass through to aid holding the parasol.The handle bears an engraved inscription that appears to be 'VML' in a highly florid script. The frame bears the name 'Hartnells'.clara miller, woolbrook, septimus miller, henry 'money' miller, gwendoline miller, cantala, parasols, caulfield, brighton general cemetery

Commissioned by Nillumbik Shire Council - 1997 The selection panel in the commissioning process to this 'extraordinary acquisition' was Rhonda Noble, Director of La Trobe University Museum of Art, Jeph Neale, Eltham Roundabout Advisory Group, Chris Marks, NSC Curator of Collections, Geoff Glynn, NSC Manager of Infrastructure Development.'Nest' highlights the indigenous flora and fauna of the Shire. The stiff, coarse grass used to create the nest is indigenous to the area and the eggs are like those of the spotted quail thrush, a ground-nesting bird of the Shire. The circular flow or placement of the eggs recalls the revolution of the seasons and nesting cycles. There is a tall light pole above the eggs, shining down at night. The effect is of a giant incubator. Enrichment and nurturing of the larger environment can be associated with this sculpture. This work resembles a large bird's nest, with three egg-like forms of fibreglass covered in a pebble render, set on sand. The nest is positioned within the paved boundary of the roundabout. The nest shape has been created out of stiff, coarse indigenous grass, periodically trimmed so the view is not obstructed. The eggs are a brown-speckled, creamy yellow colour. The three eggs are arranged in a ring, with the narrow end of each pointing to the large end of the next, in a circle that mimics the flow of traffic. N/Apublic art, nest, eggs, eltham, ekphrasis2017, mosaic, pebbles, roundabout, spotted quail thrush

The geometric pattern mimic Ukrainian embroidery design,using straw marquetry technique (which is similar to that of wood marquetry). The wheat straw was soaked in different pigments to achieve the required shades,dried,split and ironed flat. Then cut into various sizes and shapes to create this pattern. The pieces where then glued onto a backing board.The backing board was then glued on the back of the photo album. This album was received as a birthday gift in early1960's.This form of straw art is very rarely seen today.Book is black.Back page is coloured straw design. photographsphoto, book, straw, ukrainian design, 1960, family dutka

Jet came into common usage in the 19th century when a small town in England, Whitby, began mining jet to make mourning jewellery. When Queen Victoria declared that her court wear mourning attire for the three years after the death of Albert,and that only jet jewelry was to be worn at court for the first year jet jewellery was widely worn. In the Victorian era, there was a wide variety of materials used to mimic Whitby Jet for mourning jewelry. This item is an example of typical mourning style jewelry which became popular as a universal form of adornmentA black jet bead choker with fasteners at the ends.jewellery choker jet

The Bendigo mayoral chain or chain of office was donated by George Lansell in 1893 and manufactured from local gold by F Prescott. The design of modern mayoral chains (also known as a livery collar) mimics the ancient gold collar of Esses worn by the Lord Mayor of London which was bequeathed to his successors by Sir John Aleyn (who died in 1545) and which has a large jewelled pendant added in 1607. Source: Wikipedia https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Livery_collarDesigned and manufactured by Mr. E. Prescott from 9ct Yellow Gold in 1893 and believed to be made from Bendigo gold, the Bendigo mayoral chain was conceived by Mr J.H. Abbott and created with financial assistance of Mr George Lansell the "Gold King" of Bendigo who contributed the central medallion. The 18 links which made up the original chain represented serving mayors to date and were gifted by ex mayors or their representatives. The main chain consists of 35 links of quatrefoil form with the name of each mayor and the years of their term engraved and filled with black enamel. Overtime, as the chain grew too long to wear, it was separated into two joining chains eventually consisting of another 34 link section, totaling 69 links spanning years 1862 - 1988. The monogram of each mayor in gold is placed in the centre of each link and the links are connected by filigree 9ct gold joining curbs, unique to this period. The engraved central 'drop' or medallion is an eight pointed form with the body being an irregular oval containing four projections and four recesses forming the eight points. The shield section depicts the Australian emblem in miniature above and larger central Bendigo Coat of Arms filled with coloured enamel. The reverse of the medallion bears Lansell's name and is inscribed with the following: / Bendigo gold field discovered in 1851/ proclaimed municipality of Sandhurst /1855 / and city 1871/ Named changed to City of Bendigo 1891, in honor of which event / Cr J. H. Abbott, M.L.C. / inaugurated the mayoral chain / and medallion was presented to the city council / by George Lansell, Esq / to whose implicit belief in the inexhaustible / nature of our gold resources and the idefatigable energy / in developing them Bendigo mainly owns its / present prosperity / June 1893 / W. Honeybone, Town Clerk /sandhurst, bendigo, mayor, mayoral chain, george lansell, prescott, abbott, blashki, council, 1893, city of greater bendigo ceremonial item

Taken on the 27th August 2004 the photographs shows attendees of the Direct Seeding Expo that took place at Wooragee Hall socialising and eating during a lunch break. Direct seeding involves the seeds being sowed directly into the soil to achieve germination and establishment. Direct seeding is said to mimic natural processes and can result in trees and shrubs growing healthier root systems. Direct seeding is best for larger areas and can be done at a lower cost. As the Wooragee community values nature, this expo brought together members from the community in order the educate them on direct seeding which would then benefit the community. This photograph is significant at the Wooragee community values nature and believes in replacing what has been lost. Thus, the photograph demonstrates the communities commitment to ensuring the preservation of nature through education of seeding practices.Coloured rectangular photograph printed on gloss photographic paper Reverse: WAN NA E0NA2N2. NNN 0 3585 (No.22) 347wooragee, wooragee landcare, direct seeding expo, 2004

Royal Australian Air Force officer’s cap.Navy cotton drill peaked cap with black crossgrain band around exterior. Two black eyelets sit above band on either side. Black patent leather chin strap attached by two gold buttons on brim, slightly misshapen. Embroidered patch carrying a red velvet and metal crown (Queen Elizabeth II era) with blue, green and red embroidered knots mimicing jewels, sits above a gold eagle above now tarnished gold leaves. Interior sweatband in patent leather with plastic layer on top interior, underneath which is a manufacturer’s label with red ink. Strip of folded newspaper (H06.2) inserted inside interior sweatband.Label reads “M.TX/SIZE 6 7/8/A [broad arrow] F/MADE IN AUSTRALIA”. Black ink stamp on inside of sweatband reads “M. TX” inside a circle and “S19/[broad arrow]”raaf, royal australian air force, officer

The first sculpture awarded the Shire of Eltham 'Art in Public Places' Award/Commission. The Judges were Inge King, Jenny Zimmer and Daryl Jackson. The work deals with the juxtaposition of suburban and rural surroundings. This scupture is a typical example of the artist's oevre of the period. This sculptre is site specific and refers to the nature of the environment. The colour - bushfire red / sienna - alludes to the history of fire in the urban/rural fringe and the title, as well as the sculpture's shapes, forms and material refer to the natural and local elements. Judges report noted: "The most vital and expressive work for the site...with a great sense of dynamic movement and vibrant colour. Its' abstract forms will enliven the surroundings and the urban and natural environment. This work is the most appropriate for the site and expressive of the dynamics of an evolving community in which artistic discourse and debate has always thrived." The work has acquired the status of a major landmark from the National Trust. The Breeze is an abstract work made out of welded steel and painted in enamel in bush fire red / sienna. It comprises a series of flat, cut-out shapes, interlocking at different angles, giving the impression of being hinged together rather than fixed. The work references nature and the built environment. Its geometric shapes suggest man-made structures within industry and suburban life, while rural areas can be identified by the organic flame-like shapes fanned by the wind. The circular cut-out in the eye mimics the sun, symbolising the intense heat of the Australian climate, while the colour red alludes to the history of bushfire within the urban and rural fringe. N/Apublic art, ginger, red, sienna, elements, steel, abstract, breeze, fire, sculpture

This photograph was taken on Friday the 27th of August 2004 as part of an event called 'Direct Seeding Expo'. This event was one of many held by the Wooragee Landcare Group in the early 2000s which aimed to educate the local community on certain agricultural and biodiversity conservative techniques. This particular photograph shows attendees at the property of Neil and Anne Nankervis, inspecting sites where direct seeding had been used ten months earlier. Three different direct seeding techniques were demonstrated during the day by several experts in the field. Direct seeding involves the sowing of seeds directly into the soil to achieve germination and establishment. It is an alternative to planting seedlings in a contained nursery plot. This direct method is intended to mimic a more natural process of growth, revegetating larger areas in a more efficient manner.This photograph is significant as it provides evidence of a project undertaken by the Wooragee Landcare Group in the early 2000s to educate members of the public on alternative and potentially more efficient methods of planting seedlings. The Wooragee Landcare Group has been instrumental in the co-ordination of programs relating to biodiversity protection in the local area, providing great assistance to landholders.Landscape coloured photograph printed on gloss paperReverse: WAN NA EONA2N2. ANN+ 1 4240 / neil and anne nankervis, wooragee, wooragee landcare group, wooragee landcare, direct seeding expo, direct seeding, seeding, seedlings, direct seeding sites, alternative seeding, alternative seeding method

This photograph was taken on Friday the 27th of August 2004 as part of an event called 'Direct Seeding Expo'. This event was one of many held by the Wooragee Landcare Group in the early 2000s which aimed to educate the local community on certain agricultural and biodiversity conservative techniques. This particular event took place across three different locations - Wooragee Hall, and direct seeded sites at the properties of Marcus and Lisa O'Connor, and Neil and Anne Nankervis - and, therefore, the exact location where this photograph was taken is unknown. Three different direct seeding techniques were demonstrated during the day by several experts in the field. Direct seeding involves the sowing of seeds directly into the soil to achieve germination and establishment. It is an alternative to planting seedlings in a contained nursery plot. This direct method is intended to mimic a more natural process of growth, revegetating larger areas in a more efficient manner. This photograph is significant as it provides evidence of a project undertaken by the Wooragee Landcare Group in the early 2000s to educate members of the public on alternative and potentially more efficient methods of planting seedlings. The Wooragee Landcare Group has been instrumental in the co-ordination of programs relating to biodiversity protection in the local area, providing great assistance to landholders.Landscape coloured photograph printed on gloss paperReverse: WAN NA EOWA2N2 ANN- 1 4240 / neil and anne nankervis, marcus and lisa o'connor, wooragee hall, wooragee landcare, wooragee landcare group, direct seeding expo, direct seeding, seeds, revegetation, alternative planting

Alexander Wright was killed whilst performing at the Birmingham Empire as the result of a German air Attack in October 1940. The theatre had a direct hit. The stage name of Alex Wright was 'Navarre' "Prince of Mimics". According to Frank Wright Alex was a great impersonator with a unique range Bass - tenor with many accents (not unlike Peter Dawson) "AUSTRALIAN KILLED An Australian, Alexander Wright, radio variety star, who toured Europe and Australia under the pseudonym of Navarre, was killed during a recent air raid in a Midland . town. His broth-er, Frank Wright, is musical director for the London County council."(Border Morning Mail, 22 Oct 1940) Frank Wright was a renown resident of Smeaton, where he was born. He lived at Laura Villa, and attended Smeaton State School. His father William was a gold miner and his mother's name was Sarah. Their family won many singing and instrumental awards. Frank was tutored by Percy Code and became the Australian Open Cornet Champion by the age of eighteen. Sepia formal photograph of a seated man with two boys, one standing on either side of him. They are posed in front of a backdrop showing one side of a window and its curtain, panelling and a painting. The boys are dressed in shoes, socks, knee pants, vests with a chain, white shirts and a jacket. The man is similarly dressed although with long trousers.frank wright, alex wright, navarre, alexander wright, william wright

The Eurasian Jay is a small passerine bird occurring in Europe, northern Africa, and Asia. There are very distinct variations between the species of the Jay which assists in their identification. These birds inhabit mixed woodland, parks, orchards, and large gardens. They are generally solitary but can gather in large communal roosts during periods of cold weather. Eurasian Jays are known for their mimicry. They can often sound like a different species and during the day may mimic the birds they are attacking in order to confuse their opposition. This particular specimen has been mounted in an accurate but stylised fashion. 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 Eurasian Jay, as depicted in this specimen, has distinctive blue, white and dark brown stipes at the top of the wing. The body and head are light brown with a reddish undertone and there are streaks of dark brown at top the head. The tail, bottom of the wings and underneath the eyes are dark brown. This particular specimen stands upon a wooden mount and has an identification tag tied around its leg. It has pale coloured glass eyes which are accurate for this species.Swing Tag: [illegible] / to Sydney - N =99taxidermy mount, taxidermy, animalia, burke museum, beechworth, australian museum, skin, bird, jay, eurasian jay, europe, european birds, blue stripes

The Tawny Frogmouth, although often mistaken for an owl, is a nocturnal Australian bird of the Podargidae family that is more closely related to the nightjars. They are widespread in terms of distribution and can be found all across mainland Australia and Tasmania in a diverse variety of habitats from woodlands, forests and urban areas. Masters of camouflage, the Tawny Frogmouth sleeps during the day on tree branches in a stiff upward facing position (as with this specimen) to mimic broken tree branches, their feathers assist in this deception as the mottled grey and brown colours blend into the environment seamlessly. This specimen differs in colours from the usual appearance of a Tawny Frogmouth, as the beak is usually a olive-grey to blackish tone and the plumage is generally more dominantly grey all over the bird. 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.This Tawny Frogmouth has a broad head and a creamy beige coloured wide triangular beak with a hooked tip. The plumage on the head and back of the bird is a combination of darker and rufous browns, mottled with streaks of cream and grey. The underside of the bird from the bottom of the beak to the tail tip is a lighter cream colour with streaks of rufous-brown. The feet are an orange-brown colour. This specimen is adopting the skyward looking pose associated with the species, mimicking dead tree branches.1a. / More-Park / See Catalogue, page 7 /taxidermy mount, taxidermy, burke museum, beechworth, australian museum, skin, reynell eveleigh johns, bird, australian birds, tawny frogmouth, frogmouth

Alex Wright travelled to England in 1930 and was known as the Prince of Mimic. His stage name was Navarre. He died in an air-raid in the Hippodrome Birmingham in 1940. He was the brother of Frank Wright who was a renown resident of Smeaton, where he was born. He lived at Laura Villa, and attended Smeaton State School. His father William was a gold miner and his mother's name was Sarah. Their family won many singing and instrumental awards. Frank was tutored by Percy Code and became the Australian Open Cornet Champion by the age of eighteen. A year later, Frank conducted the City of Ballarat Band, and later the Ballarat Soldiers’ Memorial Band. He formed the Frank Wright Frisco Band and Frank Wright and his Coliseum Orchestra. These bands won many South Street awards, and Frank as conductor won many awards in the Australian Band Championship contest. In 1933 Frank Wright sailed to England to conduct the famous St Hilda’s Band and was later appointed Musical Director of the London County Council, where he organized many amazing concerts in parks, in and around the London district. He was made Professor of Brass and Military Band Scoring and conducted at the Guildhall of Music and Drama. Frank was often invited to adjudicate Brass Band Championships around Europe, in Australia, including South Street and in New Zealand. The Frank Wright Medal at the Royal South Street competition is awarded to an individual recognized as making an outstanding contribution to brass music in Australia.A black and white photograph of a man wearing work pants and a tie and jacket standing in a paddock near a fence and with timber lying on the ground. on back - Alex Wright 25, Taken at Smeaton, 19.9.23, F.W. (Au)alex wright, frank wright, smeaton, navarre

Frank Wright was a renown resident of Smeaton, where he was born. He lived at Laura Villa, and attended Smeaton State School. Alex his brother, who's stage name was 'Navarre', also known as The Prince of Mimic, was killed in an air-raid in the Hippodrome Birmingham in 1940. Their father William was a gold miner and his mother's name was Sarah. Their family won many singing and instrumental awards. Frank was tutored by Percy Code and was awarded a gold medal for the highest marks in the ALCM examinations in the British Colonies at the age of seventeen years. He became the Australian Open Cornet Champion by the age of eighteen. A year later, Frank conducted the City of Ballarat Band, and later the Ballarat Soldiers’ Memorial Band. He formed the Frank Wright Frisco Band and Frank Wright and his Coliseum Orchestra. These bands won many South Street awards, and Frank as conductor won many awards in the Australian Band Championship contest. In 1933 Frank Wright sailed to England to conduct the famous St Hilda’s Band and was later appointed Musical Director of the London County Council, where he organized many amazing concerts in parks, in and around the London district. He was made Professor of Brass and Military Band Scoring and conducted at the Guildhall of Music and Drama. Frank was often invited to adjudicate Brass Band Championships around Europe, in Australia, including South Street and in New Zealand. The Frank Wright Medal at the Royal South Street competition is awarded to an individual recognized as making an outstanding contribution to brass music in Australia.Black and white photograph of a man dressed in an overcoat and hat and carrying a briefcase. He is standing on the street corner. A row of shops with large overhanging awnings slope upwards behind him. The man is possibly 'Navarre', Alex Wright.alex wright, navarre, the prince of mimic, frank wright

Alex Wright travelled to England in 1930 and was known as the Prince of Mimic although his stage name was Navarre. He died in an air raid in the Hippodrome Birmingham in 1940. Alex was the brother of Frank Wright who was a renown resident of Smeaton, where he was born. He lived at Laura Villa, and attended Smeaton State School. His father William was a gold miner and his mother's name was Sarah. Their family won many singing and instrumental awards. Frank was tutored by Percy Code and was awarded a gold medal for the highest marks in the ALCM examinations in the British Colonies at the age of seventeen years. He became the Australian Open Cornet Champion by the age of eighteen. A year later, Frank conducted the City of Ballarat Band, and later the Ballarat Soldiers’ Memorial Band. He formed the Frank Wright Frisco Band and Frank Wright and his Coliseum Orchestra. These bands won many South Street awards, and Frank as conductor won many awards in the Australian Band Championship contest. In 1933 Frank Wright sailed to England to conduct the famous St Hilda’s Band and was later appointed Musical Director of the London County Council, where he organized many amazing concerts in parks, in and around the London district. He was made Professor of Brass and Military Band Scoring and conducted at the Guildhall of Music and Drama. Frank was often invited to adjudicate Brass Band Championships around Europe, in Australia, including South Street and in New Zealand. The Frank Wright Medal at the Royal South Street competition is awarded to an individual recognized as making an outstanding contribution to brass music in Australia.Black and white photograph of a man in shirt, trousers and braces hugging a woman in a dark frock. They are standing in front of a fence with trees and a paddock in the background. They are Sarah Wright and her son Alex?.Printed on back - Printed at Scott's, Veloxsarah wright, alex wright, frank wright, navarre, smeaton, ballarat

Alex Wright travelled to England in 1930 and was known as the Prince of Mimic although his stage name was Navarre. He died in an air raid in the Hippodrome Birmingham in 1940. Alex was the brother of Frank Wright who was a renown resident of Smeaton, where he was born. He lived at Laura Villa, and attended Smeaton State School. His father William was a gold miner and his mother's name was Sarah. Their family won many singing and instrumental awards. Frank was tutored by Percy Code and was awarded a gold medal for the highest marks in the ALCM examinations in the British Colonies at the age of seventeen years. He became the Australian Open Cornet Champion by the age of eighteen. A year later, Frank conducted the City of Ballarat Band, and later the Ballarat Soldiers’ Memorial Band. He formed the Frank Wright Frisco Band and Frank Wright and his Coliseum Orchestra. These bands won many South Street awards, and Frank as conductor won many awards in the Australian Band Championship contest. In 1933 Frank Wright sailed to England to conduct the famous St Hilda’s Band and was later appointed Musical Director of the London County Council, where he organized many amazing concerts in parks, in and around the London district. He was made Professor of Brass and Military Band Scoring and conducted at the Guildhall of Music and Drama. Frank was often invited to adjudicate Brass Band Championships around Europe, in Australia, including South Street and in New Zealand. The Frank Wright Medal at the Royal South Street competition is awarded to an individual recognized as making an outstanding contribution to brass music in Australia.Black and white photograph of a standing man, leaning his elbow onto his leg which is resting on a fence rail. He is dressed in shirt, trousers and braces. In the background is a grassy paddock. He is most probably Alex Wright.Printed on back - Printed at Scott's, Veloxalex wright. frank wright, navarre, smeaton, ballarat

Alex Wright travelled to England in 1930 and was known as the Prince of Mimic although his stage name was Navarre. He died in an air raid in the Hippodrome Birmingham in 1940. Alex was the brother of Frank Wright who was a renown resident of Smeaton, where he was born. He lived at Laura Villa, and attended Smeaton State School. His father William was a gold miner and his mother's name was Sarah. Their family won many singing and instrumental awards. Frank was tutored by Percy Code and was awarded a gold medal for the highest marks in the ALCM examinations in the British Colonies at the age of seventeen years. He became the Australian Open Cornet Champion by the age of eighteen. A year later, Frank conducted the City of Ballarat Band, and later the Ballarat Soldiers’ Memorial Band. He formed the Frank Wright Frisco Band and Frank Wright and his Coliseum Orchestra. These bands won many South Street awards, and Frank as conductor won many awards in the Australian Band Championship contest. In 1933 Frank Wright sailed to England to conduct the famous St Hilda’s Band and was later appointed Musical Director of the London County Council, where he organized many amazing concerts in parks, in and around the London district. He was made Professor of Brass and Military Band Scoring and conducted at the Guildhall of Music and Drama. Frank was often invited to adjudicate Brass Band Championships around Europe, in Australia, including South Street and in New Zealand. The Frank Wright Medal at the Royal South Street competition is awarded to an individual recognized as making an outstanding contribution to brass music in Australia.Black and white photograph of a man in shirt, trousers and braces, holding a hat. He is standing beside a fence with a rocky, scrubby hillside pictured behind. The man is most probably Alex Wright.Printed of back - Printed at Scott's, Veloxalex wright. frank wright, navarre, smeaton, ballarat

The knitting machine is a recently designed instrument, especially when it is compared with its ancient counterpart, the loom. It enables the creation of many metres of fabric very quickly. A knitting machine is composed of a series of needles which mimic the process of manual knitting. The mechanism engages numerous mechanical elements simultaneously and enables the creation of many metres of fabric very quickly. In addition, a knitting machine can be setup to produce unique bolts of fabric. The density of the fabric may be modified and a knitting machine can produce double-faced effects. A doubled-faced effect creates colour combinations through the introduction of an additional colour to the knitting pattern. This knitting machine is a Coppo brand. It contains over five hundred needles and was produced in the 1960s. It is a representation of the best available in the world at that time. Originating from Italy, it was designed for commercial use. Through both precision and capacity, Italian artisans were seen to be the best in the world of textiles and knitwear. Through emigration, globalisation and the regularly available quantities of wool, Australia came to compete on this stage. The owner of this particular machine migrated from Italy in 1959. When she did, she brought with her a Dubied knitting machine. She later replaced it with this Coppo. When in Australia the owner began work as a piece worker, knitting jumpers and worked for some of the iconic names in the Australian knitting trade including ES Poratt and Alpin Manufacturing. The owner’s role progressed from a piece worker to a wool garment designer and she won many Wool Industry Awards in the 1970s and 1980s. Her high quality of work using and her individual custom designs were spoken about by many of her customers and she had a very large private clientele. She designed and knitted fully fashioned tailored jumpers for people for around 30 years.Knitting table sits on a stand with wide metal legs. Legs contain lettering 'COPPO torino'. Legs are connected via three thin metal poles as well as a metal band and the bed of knitting table at top. The connecting metal band has the lettering 'SUPER - COPTAL' attached. The Knitting table itself contains two beds and a bench at the rear. Attached to the bench is a thin metal structure for the elevation of yarn. It has four crane esk structures above on this metal structure. The bench is covered in a pale grey laminate in the imitation of wood. Attached to the knitting bed is a sliding contraptions containing two handles at the front followed by a complex semi-circle sliding mechanism used to move the knitting mechanism front and back.Left Stand. Lettering: Coppo Torino Right Stand. Lettering: Coppo Torino Centre Stand. Lettering SUPER - COPTALcoppo, knitting machine, design, italy, wool, business, migrants

On 19 April 1915, Brighton City Councillor T. Wilson moved to install a roll of honour in the Brighton Town Hall. "The men who had gone to the war deserved all the praise and consideration that could be given them. Nothing could be said too highly in their favour." The Roll of honour was unveiled at the Brighton Town Hall on Armistice Day, 11 November 1928, by the mayor, Cr. H.E. Pullman. It contained the names of the men of the municipality who gave their lives in World War I. A service was conducted by the Brighton Ministers' Association, under the presidency of the Rev. H. B. Hewitt, of St. Andrew's Church, Brighton. The roll of honour was made by H. Goldman Pty, Ltd, a Melbourne cabinet maker and designer who worked exclusively in Australian timbers. The two metal panels/tablets on either side of the honour roll were added at a later date and commemorate those who died in World War II.Polished wood and metal honour board attached to wall in the Brighton Town Hall. The board is a rectangular shape with a semi-circular curved top at the centre. The central section is a dark carved timber Honour Roll for WWI listing the names of Brighton residents who gave their lives in service 1914—1919. To the left and right of the honour roll are black metal panels/tablets that were added at a later date which commemorate those who died in WWII 1939—1945. The central section contains the honour roll of 228 names which are inscribed in gold with black shadow across three panels which are divided by four decorative round columns. The middle panel is arched at the top and under the arch is a decorative wreath in relief containing the City of Brighton crest within it, below which is "LEST WE FORGET" in gold lettering. The top of the left and right wooden panels each have carved decorative eucalyptus foliage and a bow hanging in the middle. A piece of metal with an incised quote "AT THE GOING DOWN OF THE SUN AND IN THE MORNING WE WILL REMEMBER THEM" is attached to the bottom edge of the central section. Below the metal bar on the left and right panels are the dates 1914 and 1919 in gold lettering, and in the centre "TO COMMEMORATE HEROIC & SUPREME SACRIFICE". The cast metal side panels are set back slightly from the central section and contain decorative wreaths at the top and quotes under them. The left panel has the incised inscription "IN GRATEFUL MEMORY OF THOSE WHO GAVE THEIR LIVES IN THE SERVICE OF THEIR COUNTRY IN THE SECOND WORLD WAR 1939—1945" and the right panel reads "GREATER LOVE HATH NO MAN THAN THIS THAT A MAN LAY DOWN HIS LIFE FOR HIS FRIENDS 1939—1945". They have square columns on their far ends and the capital of the columns and top and base decorations mimic the original timber design. brighton, roll of honour, honour board, lest we forget, brighton town hall, commemoration, wwi, world war i, wwii, world war ii, brighton city council, bayside, military, service, war memorial, h. goldman, harry goldman, h. goldman manufacturing company

Teenager’s Meccano model in The Age window Whilst Barry’s model is interesting, and he himself is more than interesting – renowned for his lifelong harmonica playing, vaudeville and stand-up comedy as “Mr Versatility” – it is the location of the photo which intrigued us. Was this the photographer’s office, and would it give us a clue to his identity? We thought he might be “Mr Duke” as some boxes of Kodak slides were so named! But we later deduced they were most likely related to the Duke’s Centenary visit to Melbourne. However, they did lead us to The Age archivist Michelle Stillman, who held the key to unlock the photographer’s identity. Louise McKenzie. Photographer notations on slide: "Model warship YiPi 14-12-34 B61" Published: 14 September 1934 The Age p15 Published title: MECCANO CRUISER Published caption: Barry Sandford (17) of Richmond, recently completed this splendid Meccano model of a modern cruiser. It is fitted with four swivelling turret guns, six quick-firers, searchlight, movable anchor rudder and propeller. This model is on view in "The Age" office window, Collins-street. Trove article identifier: http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article205072014 Description: Meccano model of cruiser. Wood panelled office walls and boxes of glass slides can be seen in the background. Research by project volunteer, Louise McKenzie: The second slide we scanned, this photo of Barry Sandford’s Meccano model of a cruiser was of particular interest because it appeared to have been taken in the photographer's studio/office. For the bulk of our project, the identity of the photographer was not known, and we delighted in imagining who they were, whether they were amateur or professional, and what else might be stored in those neatly labelled boxes in the background. But the photo had its own story regardless. A photo of Barry Sandford’s meccano model appeared in the Melbourne AGE on Friday 14 December 1934; it was probably the same photo as the one in our collection – now cropped to remove the background office environment. This background shows shelves of Kodak Panochromatic, and archived boxes labelled “DUKE” with various references: D1 – D23, and one labelled ‘DUKE Not Used’. On a shelf there is a stack of wooden glass plate holders. It wasn't until early 2023 that the photographer's identity was revealed with the help of archivist/librarian at The Age, Michelle Stillman. As for young Barry – what a talent! Meccano was hugely popular at this time. The Melbourne Meccano Club met on a Tuesday at the YMCA building. On 18 August 1933 The Age reported that at their upcoming meeting the model builders “will gain an insight into the oil industry from a lecturer and moving pictures supplied by the Vacuum Oil Co.” Models reflected an interest in rapid technological developments of the time, and also key activities. On 2 November 1934 The Age showed Barry with a model of Sir Charles Kingsford Smith’s Lockheed Altair, “Lady Southern Cross”, which Kingsford Smith purchased with the intent to compete in the MacRobertson Air Race as part of the Melbourne Centenary celebrations. He did not participate, but in late 1935 he and co-pilot John Thompson “Tommy” Pethybridge flew Lady Southern Cross from India to Singapore in an attempt to break the England-Australia speed record. Sadly, on the night of 8 November, they disappeared over the Andaman Sea and were never found. The Harmonica Riff Raff blog provides an amazing and comprehensive commentary on Barry Sandford's life. He is described as a Richmond boy of many talents – model making, archery, comedy, kite making, magic and juggling, as well as a harmonica virtuoso. He was particularly renowned for his harmonica playing and the creation of a two-foot long harmonica, and a tiny, hands-free organ which he played fully enclosed in his mouth. He promoted himself as Mr. Versatility and often featured in Melbourne news articles in the 1930s and 1940s. He remained very active in the entertainment business throughout his life, including as a member of the Four Octaves harmonica group, on the Tivoli circuit, and in vaudeville and stand up comedy. He successfully made the move from stage and radio into television. He died in 1992, still saluted by his peers as the gentleman, Mr Versatility. References: MECCANO CRUISER. (1934, December 14). The Age (Melbourne, Vic. : 1854 - 1954), p. 3. Retrieved January 22, 2024, from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article205072014 MIMIC MECCANO WARFARE. (1933, July 21). The Age (Melbourne, Vic. : 1854 - 1954), p. 2 (This Supplement is Published Every Friday). Retrieved September 19, 2023, from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article204368610 MELBOURNE MECCANO CLUB. (1933, August 18). The Age (Melbourne, Vic. : 1854 - 1954), p. 1 (This Supplement is Published Every Friday). Retrieved September 19, 2023, from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article204367564 MECCANO MODEL OF LADY SOUTHERN CROSS. (1934, November 2). The Age (Melbourne, Vic. : 1854 - 1954), p. 3. Retrieved September 19, 2023, from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article205083196 Charles Kingsford Smith, Wikipedia, https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Charles_Kingsford_Smith 'Mr. Versatility', Harmonica Riff Raff, https://harmonicariffraff.blog/2022/09/05/mr-versatility/ Photographer notations on slide: "Model warship YiPi 14-12-34 B61".ships, models, the age, harmonicas, meccano

This majestic peacock embodies the technical achievement, skill and ingenuity of artisans during the 19th century. It is now known as the 'Loch Ard Peacock' and was designed and modelled in 1873 by Paul Comolera (1818-1897) and fired in one piece at the Minton factory at Stoke-on-Trent in the United Kingdom in 1875. The peacock has been portrayed in symbolic motifs and has figured heavily in folktales and fables since antiquity, and many cultures around the world see it as a symbol of beauty, rebirth and power. Wealthy Victorians loved majolica, and the large peacock would have been the ultimate home accessory as a conservatory ornament – combining their desire for nature, the exotic and vibrant colours. The peacock model was listed in catalogues by Minton & Co. for a retail price of 35 guineas or sold as a pair for 90 guineas. Minton & Co. was founded in 1793 by Thomas Minton (1765–1836) and became a famous pottery and porcelain manufacturer. Comolera was a French artist and sculptor, renowned for dramatic naturalistic forms and life-size renditions of birds and animals that won him admiration in public and artistic circles. He was employed by Minton & Co. from 1873 to 1880, and the life-sized peacock became his best-known work. Comolera kept a live peacock loaned from the nearby Duke of Sutherland's Trentham Hall Estate in his studio to create a life-size model of fine buff earthenware model, which was then hand painted in brilliantly coloured green and blue glazes to mimic the peafowl’s dazzling plumage. There are no surviving production records, but according to documents in the Minton Archive, nine peacocks were made by Comolera. However, today, some historians now believe that twelve were fired at the Minton factory; research is ongoing. These peacocks were so admired that Minton & Co. used them as exhibition showpieces at International Exhibitions in London, Paris, and the United States of America, ensuring the company had a worldwide reputation. So, when Melbourne hosted an International Exposition in 1880, Minton & Co. sent out ceramics and tiles, and in particular, this peacock was intended to be part of their exhibit in the British Court in the Exhibition Building, built in the Carlton Gardens. The early dispatch date (1878) indicates that the company may have intended to exhibit their wares, including the peacock, at the 1879 Sydney International Exhibition, but the company did not take up this option. The ship that Minton & Co. used to bring the peacock and their other wares to the Australian colonies was the ill-fated Loch Ard, which sunk after striking Mutton Bird Island near Port Campbell, Victoria, in calm foggy weather in June 1878 on the final leg of the ship's journey to Melbourne. The loss of 52 lives made it one of Victoria’s worst shipwrecks. Therefore, this peacock never made it to the grand exposition in Melbourne, as Minton & Co. had planned. Charles McGillivray dragged this peacock, still in its original packing case, onto the beach in the gorge just two days after the Loch Ard went down. The peacock was rescued unscathed apart from a chip on its beak (only repaired in 1988). After a disagreement with a Melbourne Customs Officer, Joseph Daish, McGillivray stopped his salvage operations, leaving the peacock on the beach. The second salvagers were James Miller and Thomas Keys. Miller was a member of the firm Howarth, Miller and Matthews, Geelong, who had brought the salvage rights to the Loch Ard wreck on 10 June. When Miller and Keys arrived at the wreck site, a storm had washed many of the salvaged goods, including this peacoc,k back into the sea. The two men found the peacock in its case ‘bobbing along in the water’ and pulled it back to the beach. To ensure the peacock wasn't washed out to sea again, Miller and Keys hauled the packing case containing the peacock up the gorge's cliff face to the top, ready to be transported. In an interview in 1928, Keys claimed that at the time of the rescue, the head had broken from the body. This account was proven to be true in 1988, following the birds' display in Brisbane. This peacock began its life in Australia, not in the grandeur of an International Exhibition as intended, but in the hallway of a simple domestic house in Geelong. It appears Minton & Co. did not attempt to buy this peacock back. Florence Miller, daughter of James Miller (Loch Ard salvage rights holder), later remarked that the only item of real value rescued from the wreck had been the peacock and that this had been kept by her father in the family home at Malvern for many years and became a treasured family possession. As such, this 'Loch Ard peacock' was almost forgotten and mistaken with other Minton peacocks around the world. Miss Florence Miller tried to sell the peacock due to financial difficulties in the 1930s but was unsuccessful. While attempting to sell her Loch Ard relic, it was displayed in the window of the old Argus newspaper office, which was at 76 Collins Street, Melbourne; the Argus had relocated to the corner of Elizabeth and La Trobe Streets in 1926. Between 1935 and 1939, the old Argus building was occupied by the Joshua N. McClelland Print Room, which sold not only paintings and prints but also antiques and authentic replicas, as well as hosting exhibitions. Miss Florence Miller loaned her peacock for display at the Victorian Historical Exhibition held in the National Gallery on 1st June 1935, the 57th anniversary of the Loch Ard wreck. As a result, the peacock attracted public attention in books, newspapers and magazine articles that told the story of its survival from a shipwreck. Miss Florence Miller was keen to sell the peacock, even writing overseas to Captain Blain on November 30th, 1938, about the possibility of a sale, but this became no longer possible due to the outbreak of war. Recent information points to the Loch Ard peacock being owned by John S R Heath before its sale to Frank Ridley-Lee in May 1941. Research is ongoing, but it seems likely that John Samuel Robert Heath, a leading Melbourne dentist with a practice in Collins Street, and his wife, a dental mechanic, had purchased Miss Miller’s Loch Ard peacock before its sale in 1941. They were lovers of fine arts, music, wine and food. The peacock in the window of the old Argus building could have attracted their attention as they had already purchased the old stone Presbyterian Church on Warrigal Road, Oakleigh, in 1933 and had converted its interior. The home, renamed The Studio, even included Melbourne’s first all-electric kitchen. The peacock was perfect for display in the Studio’s entrance. A magazine article published after the conversion was completed included photographs of the interior. The picture of the ‘portico’ had a caption below that stated, “Some of her [Mrs Heath’s] finest pottery was salvaged from the Loch Ard Wreck”. In 2025, Heath’s two remaining sons remember running around in the entrance with the peacock standing there, oblivious to its value. Heath was an accomplished artist, studying under Max Meldrum. He painted and exhibited his works at The Studio and in a public exhibition, and he was a finalist eight times in the coveted Archibald Prize portrait competition, including the submission of his self-portrait that is now part of his grandson’s collection. The next owner of the Loch Ard Peacock was Frank Ridley-Lee. He displayed it at his home in Ivanhoe after buying it at an auction in May 1941. The peacock remained in the hands of the Ridley-Lee family until it was offered for sale by auction in 1975 as part of an art collection belonging to Mrs Ridley-Lee's estate. The peacock was not sold at this time, as the reserve price of $4500 was not met. This news was passed on to the board of the newly created Flagstaff Hill Maritime Village. Urgent efforts were made to collect the necessary money through fundraising by the Warrnambool City Council and public donations. The Fletcher Jones Company and the Victorian Government contributed half the cost. On 9 September 1975, the Loch Ard peacock was purchased by Flagstaff Hill Maritime Village, and it found a new home at the maritime museum. Since then, it has only left Warrnambool twice. Firstly, in 1980, at the centenary celebrations of the Royal Exhibition Building in Melbourne, and secondly, in 1988, the peacock was given pride of place at the entrance to the Victorian Pavilion at the Brisbane World Expo, acknowledging that this Minton Majolica peacock is the most significant shipwreck object in Australia. The Minton majolica peacock is considered of historical social and aesthetic significance to Victoria and is one of only a few 'objects' registered on the Victorian Heritage Register (H 2132), as it is a most notable and rare object associated with the Minton factory of the 1870s and works by the celebrated sculptor Paul Comolera along with the wreck of the Loch Ard on the Victorian coastline. This Minton peacock is historically significant for its rarity; it was one of only 9-12 known to exist. The shipwreck of the Loch Ard is also of significance for Victoria and is registered on the Victorian Heritage Register Ref (S 417). Flagstaff Hill has a varied collection of artefacts from Loch Ard and its collection is significant for being one of the largest accumulation of artefacts from this notable Victorian shipwreck. The collections object is to also give us a snapshot into history so we can interpret the story of this tragic event. The collection is also archaeologically significant as it represents aspects of Victoria's shipping history that allows us to interpret Victoria's early social and historical themes. The collection is historically significant is that it is associated, unfortunately with the worst and best-known shipwreck in Victoria's history. The peacock, resplendent in polychrome glaze, stands perched on a rocky plinth decorated with vines, leaves, flowers, blackberries and wild mushrooms. The peacock’s breast is cobalt blue; the wings and legs are in naturalistic colours. The tail is a mass of feathers coloured in green, ochre blue and brown — a fantastic display of artistry and Minton expertise. Inscribed at the base :P Comolera, and a Minton & Co. design number: 2045.flagstaff hill, warrnambool, maritime museum, shipwreck coast, loch ard, loch ard gorge, peacock, paul comolera, victorian heritage register, minton peacock, minton & co., stoke upon trent, bird figures, mintons, ceramics, international expositions, majolica, naturalistic, staffordshire, john samuel robert heath, peacock statue, loch ard peacock, majorca peacock

The National Bicycle Game is an Australian-made and designed board game for 2, 3 or 4 players made by The National Game Company of Ballarat and Melbourne between 1930 and 1950. The earliest board games date from the mid-18th century and were printed on copper or steel plates and coloured by hand. By 1839 lithography was first used, making it possible for publishers to produce larger quantities of all types of toys. By the 1890s the games were mounted on to a folded board. Popular subjects were of an historical or geographical nature, as well as transport including motoring, aviation and railways and various sports. The board game 'A Motor Ride' ,made by The National Game Company, was possibly the first large-scale manufacturer of locally-designed board games in Australia. The firm was established in Ballarat, Victoria, at the beginning of the twentieth century by W. Owen. Other board games made by National include the 'Victory-United Nations" game, 'Fairyland', 'Yacht Race', 'Golf Game', 'Bicycle Game', Steeple Chase', 'Our Great Game' about football, 'Courtship and Marriage', 'Around the Commonwealth by Aeroplane', and 'Dugouts and Trenches' as well as the more traditional games such as Ludo, Snakes and Ladders, and Noughts and Crosses. This game board has been well-used. The game is significant because it uses scenarios familiar to Australian children in the first half of the twentieth century. This game board reflects the experience of being a child in the twentieth century. Toys were how children were socialised and taught. Most toys mimic the adult world, and looking at them can tell us something about how the world has changed. A folding game board for The national Bicycle Game for 2,3 or 4 players. It has a yellow spiral track on which the player progresses at the throw of the die, starting at the clubhouse until reaching home. In the background are pictures of rural scenes.board-games recreation cycling national-game-company