Denis Gibbons (1937 – 2011) Trained with the Australian Army, before travelling to Vietnam in January 1966, Denis stayed with the 1st Australian Task Force in Nui Dat working as a photographer. For almost five years Gibbons toured with nine Australian infantry battalions, posting compelling war images from within many combat zones before being flown out in late November 1970 after sustaining injuries. The images held within the National Vietnam Veterans Museum make up the Gibbons Collection.A black and white photograph of an American advisor to the Vietnamese Army with an Australian Navy radio operator on board a 135th Assault Helicopter 'Command Ship' controlling the insertion of South Vietnamese Rangers into a known NVA/VietCong area in the Mekong Delta.photograph, vietnamese army, 135th assault helicopter company, nva/vc, mekong delta, australian navy radio operator, gibbons collection catalogue, denis gibbons, photographer, vietnam war, south vietnamese rangers, american advisor

Denis Gibbons (1937 – 2011) Trained with the Australian Army, before travelling to Vietnam in January 1966, Denis stayed with the 1st Australian Task Force in Nui Dat working as a photographer. For almost five years Gibbons toured with nine Australian infantry battalions, posting compelling war images from within many combat zones before being flown out in late November 1970 after sustaining injuries. The images held within the National Vietnam Veterans Museum make up the Gibbons Collection. A black and white photograph of the Commanding Officer of 6 RAR/NZ (ANZAC) Lt Col David Butler, along his Radio Operator and Intellegence Officer inspects the weapons found in the large underground cache at the K76A Hospital captured on the Nui May Tao Mountain by 6 RAR/NZ. photograph, 6 rar/nz, k76a hospital, operation marsden, nui may tao mountain, lt col butler, gibbons collection catalogue, intelligence officers, commanding officer, radio operator, underground cache, denis gibbons, 6 rar/nz (anzac)

Denis Gibbons (1937 – 2011) Trained with the Australian Army, before travelling to Vietnam in January 1966, Denis stayed with the 1st Australian Task Force in Nui Dat working as a photographer. For almost five years Gibbons toured with nine Australian infantry battalions, posting compelling war images from within many combat zones before being flown out in late November 1970 after sustaining injuries. The images held within the National Vietnam Veterans Museum make up the Gibbons Collection. A black and white photograph of the Commanding Officer of 6 RAR/NZ Lt Col Butler, his Radio Operator and Intellegence Officer inspects the weapons found in the large underground cache at the K76A Hospital captured on the Nui May Tao Mountain by 6 RAR/NZ during Operation Marsden. photograph, 6 rar/nz, lt col butler, k76a hospital, nui may tao mountain, operation marsden, gibbons collection catalogue, commanding officer, radio operator, intelligence officers, 6 rar/nz (anzac), underground cache, weapons, denis gibbons

Denis Gibbons (1937 – 2011) Trained with the Australian Army, before travelling to Vietnam in January 1966, Denis stayed with the 1st Australian Task Force in Nui Dat working as a photographer. For almost five years Gibbons toured with nine Australian infantry battalions, posting compelling war images from within many combat zones before being flown out in late November 1970 after sustaining injuries. The images held within the National Vietnam Veterans Museum make up the Gibbons Collection. A black and white photograpf of the Commanding Officer of 6 RAR/NZ Lt Col Butler, his Radio Operator and Intellegence Officer inspects the weapons found in the large underground cache at the K76A Hospital captured on the Nui May Tao Mountain by 6 RAR/NZ during Operation Marsden. photograph, 6 rar/nz, k76a hospital, lt col butler, nui may tao mountain, operation marsden, gibbons collection catalogue, commanding officer, radio operator, intelligence officers, 6 rar/nz (anzac), denis gibbons

HMAS Hobart Commendation presented by US Navy Unit 1969. Ship was fired on twice by US aircraft and two sailors were injured. 1968. This item was donated by L.C. Jones R63987. Radio Op RAN, Laurie Jones, on behalf of Leading Radio Operator Special Terence Bernard Nugent (R65155) who served on HMAS Hobart from March 1968 to October 1968, HMAS Vendetta from October 1970 to November 1970 and HMAS Vampire November 1972Blue covered booklet with black and white writing. Emblem showing Crown of ships over Hobart on ribbon. Lion in red on white background holding shovel and pick, Crossed boomerang, ice age axe and ribbon at bottom. Image of ship plowing through ocean. 18 pages of names and photos."Sic Fortis Hobartia Crevit" on black scroll. D39 on front of ship.leading radio operator special terence bernard nugent, r65155, laurie jones, hmas hobart, commendation, us navy unit, wounded in action, hmas vendetta, hmas vampire, nugent, navy, radio operator, bravery

Radio Operator Summerbadge/buttons, raaf

This transceiver was made by Merv Collins, a long-time resident of Wodonga. His call sign VK3AF) is attached to both of the radios. "Merv" Mervyn Aubrey Lascelles Collins was born near Horsham Victoria in 1922. He and his family moved to Wodonga in 1965 so that he could work at the newly opened TV transmission station at Mt Baranduda, to Wodonga's south. He was passionate about electronics and radio, becoming an Amateur Radio (Ham) operator in the 1950s. He had an amazing understanding of the science, allowing him to build the majority of his equipment from scratch, often without a circuit diagram. Through his resourcefulness, Merv frequently modified old black and white TV's and other equipment destined for landfill, incorporating them into gear ranging from transceivers to test equipment. Merv’s handiwork allowed him to talk to people all around the world. He lived in Leonard Street, Wodonga for over 40 years, and the antennas that rose from the back yard were a local landmark. He passed away in 2010, a proud Wodonga resident and keen "Ham" to the end.This item is significant because it was owned by a local resident who operated it in Wodonga for over 40 years.Two radio transmitters used by a ham radio operator in Wodonga.merv collins wodonga, ham radio transceiver, amateur radio, radio communications

Courses Camps were held separate to annual exercise in order to train soldiers in driving and radio operator skillsBlack and white photograph of group in bush setting at Puckapunyal 1983. Standing at centre of group is Sir David Fairbairn, Honorary Colonel 8/13 Victorian Mounted Rifles." Courses Camp 1983. L to R Capt. Cameron, WO11 Gaughan, Hon Col Sir David Fairbairn, Pte Capelhorn, Tpr Marshall."

issued by the Department of Civil Aviation during 1944, documents correct procedures for aircraft radio operators within Australia. department of civil aviation, aircraft radio operators

Amateur Radio Cards sent to William Douglas VK3GAFor the owner to preserve the cards as a record of radio contacts made and today to preserve the collection as an historical record.Items kept in two plastic tubs.Several thousand amateur radio cards and 32 log books. amateur radio cards, bill douglas vk3ga, amateur radio, radio hamsamateur radio cards, bill douglas vk3ga, amateur radio, radio hams

This type of logbook was issued by the Royal Australian Air Force to non-pilot aircrew to record their flight hour and experience. This information was required for official administrative purposes. The book is incompletely filled in as recorder was "Discharged on compassionate grounds".This book is a useful reference tool.A blue, hard cover log book with details of R.A.A.F. observer/ air gunner/ telegraph operator/ radio operator, used to record exercises from bases in Victoria and South Australia. Inside, each page is printed with a table. Each column in the table has a title, 'Date', 'Hour', ' Aircraft Type and Number', 'Pilot', 'Duty', 'Remarks', 'Flying time / Day / Night'. The table has handwritten entries. air-transport flight-information royal- australian-air-force

This instrument was given to Allan White on 24.8.1935 by his grandfather. Allan White came to Orbost in 1946. He was firstly a share fvarmer on 3 farms then in business - saddler and bike shop with his brother Eric. Then withG.P. Motors as the RACV man. Allan was a "ham radio" operator and involved with Rotary, Rifle and Bowling clubs, also with the Presbyterian Church.A Mezon button accordion with a tan coloured canite carrying case. it has 3 bass valves and 10 treble valves.On front of case : MEZON Superior Manufacturer On accordion : MEZON accordion Made in Germany On end : steel reeds Hand engraved : 24.8.35 Corner pieces : MEZON Trade mark Made in Saxony musical-instrument button-accordion white-allan

The Wireless Institute of Victoria was established in 1910 and amateur radio operators (called hams) in Victoria were issued with licences by this institute. Cards such as this one were exchanged by operators to confirm a contact between two amateur radio operators anywhere in the world (called QSL cards). The cards contained information regarding the radio contact made, the strength of the signal, the type of transmitter etc and the words, codes and abbreviations used were known internationally. This card, which is an unused one, belonged to Ted Salamy who had the call sign A 3AJ. This licence was issued in 1924 and was the 35th amateur radio licence issued in Victoria. It is believed that this was the first amateur radio station established in Warrnambool. Ted Salamy (1903-1977) was the son of Michael Salamy who established jewellery shops in Timor Street and in Liebig Street in Warrnambool in the 20th century. Ted Salamy was later the proprietor of these stores up to the 1960s when he retiredThis card has considerable local significance as an early Warrnambool amateur radio card and as one belonging to a prominent 20th century Warrnambool businessman, Ted Salamy. This is a card with a buff-coloured background and black and red printing on one side of the card and handwritten information in blue ink on the other side. The remains of adhesive tape applied to the edges of the card are still visible. ‘Timor Street Warrnambool Vic. Australia A 3AJ, E. Salamy Op.’ amateur (ham) radio, victoria, ted salamy

This item was owned by Arthur Lock who lived in the Wodonga district after World War 11. As well as being a Rat of Tobruk, Arthur made a significant contribution to the community and was awarded the British Empire Medal in 1972 for services to young people and the Wodonga community. He was involved in the scouting movement for over 50 years. Arthur was also an amateur radio operator with call number VK3AULThis item is part of a collection of items owned by Arthur Lock, a member of the 2/23rd Battalion, an all-volunteer Second Australian Imperial Force which served as part of the garrison during the Siege of Tobruk, then at El Alamein, New Guinea and Borneo. It has particular local significance as the battalion was know as "Albury's Own" because a large majority of the battalion's initial intake of volunteers came from the Albury–Wodonga region. A leather case with surrounding strap and metal buckle. The case contains 2 brushes.world war 11, rats of tobruk, tobruk, arthur lock

Jacket worn by Brendan Honey when performing the duties of a Petty Officer Radio Supervisor in the Royal Australian Navy from Oct 1979 to Oct 2000Jacket Double Breasted Service Dress Navy Blue with gold embroided insignia, [Radio Operator Petty Officer] on right upper arm; gold embroided rank insignia [Petty Officer] above three gold embroided chevrons indicating 12 years service on the left upper arm; shoulder flashes with gold embroided word, "Australia" on both shoulders. 8 gold button with embossed Australian Navy Emblem and the word "Australia" in parallel columns of 4. Size 99R (Regular fit) with 2 small gold button with embossed Australian Navy Emblem and the word "Australia" the cuff of each arm.Manufacturer's identification label on inside right breast.Manufacturers label measuring 4mm x 8mm showing company logo ADA / 1990 / arrow pointed up /NSN:8405-66-132-2314 / 70% 30% Wool Poly / size 99R / match / trouser size 89R / No / Name / Dry Clean Only / Made in Australia/ owner's name written in black by a laundry marking penjacket, navy, jacket service dress, jacket petty office radio supervisor

The set consisted of a key battery and buzzer it was used for training potential radio operators in the Morse code. It was manufactured by blue point in the 1950s. The company was founded in the Sydney suburb of Erksville in 1936 by a German immigrant, Frederick Boyd Dirks who named his company F Dirks. The company produced Bakelite products such as ashtrays single strip heaters, and Morse key components, In 1946 the company named was changed to Blue Point products Pty Ltd. The name was inspired by the name “Blau Punkt” a German electrical supplier. in 1973 the company was purchased by Gerard Industries which was known for its line o Clipsal products, An item made in Australia for training purposes of new radio operators and is significant in that it is part of Australia's social history and shows the development of Australian electrical manufacturing. Australian blue point telegraph practice /training set XX20A circa 1950 Bakelite, stamped XX20A under, three terminals - two marked "+" and "-".flagstaff hill, warrnambool, shipwrecked-coast, flagstaff-hill, flagstaff-hill-maritime-museum, maritime-museum, shipwreck-coast, flagstaff-hill-maritime-village

This is a set of 22 photographs of a Army Survey Regiment adventurous training held in the Grampians National Park, VIC in October 1990. It is evident the training focussed on teamwork, leadership, abseiling, rock climbing, field craft and living off the land survival skills.This is a set of 22 photographs of Army Survey Regiment personnel undergoing adventurous training held in the Grampians National Park, VIC. In October 1990. The colour photographs are on 35mm negative film and are part of the Army Survey Regiment’s Collection. The photographs were scanned at 2400 dpi. .1) - Photo, colour, 1990. A Mercedes Unimog truck traverses Grampians National Park. .2) - Photo, colour, 1990. Unidentified personnel relax at base camp. .3) - Photo, colour, 1990. A curious emu listens in to an unidentified radio operator at base camp. .4) - Photo, colour, 1990. WO2 Neil ‘Ned’ Kelly prepares to abseil. .5) to .15) - Photo, colour, 1990. Abseiling action. .16) - Photo, colour, 1990. SPR Frank Savy abseils down the cliff. .17) - Photo, colour, 1990. Personnel at cliff top in readiness to abseil. L to R: SPR Andrew Morrison-Evans, CPL Daryl South, WO2 Rhys De Laine, SSGT Peter Imeson, WO2 George Graham, SSGT Paul Leskovec, unidentified soldier in foreground. .18) - Photo, colour, 1990. Personnel at cliff top in readiness to abseil. L to R: WO2 Rhys De Laine, SGT Paul Hopes, unidentified (x2) in foreground, CPL Daryl South, unidentified SGT Chris Edwards. .19) to .22) - Photo, colour, 1990. WO2 George Graham abseils down the cliff..1P to .22P – There are no personnel identified. ‘1990 ADV TRAINING’ annotated on negatives sleeve.royal australian survey corps, rasvy, army survey regiment, army svy regt, fortuna

Program Bendigo operatic Society - South Pacific - Opening 10th August 1962 for six nights. Producer: Beatrice Oakley - Musical Director: Max O'Loghlen - Cast in Order of Appearance: Ray Houston, John Boromeo, Ruth Lyon, Carol Crane alternating as Ngana and Jerome - Roger Sprawson as Henri - Patricia McCracken as Ensign Nellie Forbush - John Stephens as Emile de Becque - Patricia Lyon as Bloody Mary - Kenneth Nicholls as Abner - Victor White as Stewpot - Alfred Annison as Luther Billis - Roger Sprawson as the Professor - Brian Whetstone as Lieut. Joseph Cable U.S.M.C. - Fred Trewarne as Capt. George Brackett. U.S.N. Peter Houston as Commander William Harbison U.S.N. - John Gow as Yeoman Herbert Quale - Ian Becwith as Sgt. Kenneth Johnson - Gerry Gleeson as Seabee Richard West - John Reed as Seabee Morton Wise - Roy Cronin as Seaman Tom O'Brien - Reginald Boromeo as Radio Operator Bob McCaffery - Len Carr as marine Corporal Hamilton Steeves - Denis Cremen as Staff Sgt Thomas Hassinger - Daryl Walker as Pte Victor Jerome - George Steele as Pte Sven Larsen - Barry Washington as Sgt Jack Waters - Joan Crane as Lieut. Genevieve Marshall - Dawn Beckwith as Ensign Lisa Manelli - Annette Wilson as Ensign Connie Walewska - Emily Houston as Ensign Janet McGregor - Jill Angwin as Ensign Bessie Noonan - Carole Mckenzie as Ensign Pamela Whitmore - Greta Smyth as Ensign Rita Adams - Rhonda Scott as Ensign Sue Yaeger - Lorraine Brennan as Ensign Betty Pitt - Mary Speedy as Ensign Cora McRae - Kathrine Alexander as Ensign Dinah Murphy - Bronwen Townsend as Liat - Ferd Lorenz as Lieut. Buzz Adams.program, theatre, bendigo operatic society

Crowd of spectators gathered around a green at Royal Melbourne Golf Course, Cheltenham for the Australian Women’s Golf Championship in 1935. The winner was Irish player Pat Walker. Runner-up was Australian Susie Morpeth. Photographer notations on slide: "Vic Women's Ch'ship 1935 B98" Published: The Age 5 September 1935 p11 Published title: THE HUGE GALLERY WHICH WATCHED THE FINAL OF THE AUSTRALIAN WOMEN'S CHAMPIONSHIP. Published caption: Advancing to the 12th Green at Royal Melbourne yesterday, the huge gallery, part of which, can be seen in this picture, was estimated to number about two thousand people. The players in the left corner of the picture are about to play on to the green, and the stewards are hard at work keeping back the enthusiastic crowd. Trove article identifier: http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-page19254515 18 year-old Miss Pamela Barton of England is teeing off at the ninth hole, watched by her competitor Miss Janet Gardiner of Queensland and a gallery of intensely focussed spectators. Both women went on to have diverse, non-sporting careers. During the Blitz and the Battle of Britain, Pam Barton (1917-1943) drove ambulances before joining the WAAF as a radio operator. Later she gained a commission as a Flight Officer in command of a staff of 600. In 1943, Pam was killed instantly when the RAF plane piloted by her unofficial fiancée crashed in heavy weather. The Pam Barton Memorial Salver is awarded to the winner of the British Ladies Amateur Golf Championship. The inscription reads “In Affectionate Memory of Pam Barton”. During WWII, Janet Gardiner (Mrs Jobson-Scott, 1907-1987) began manufacturing liquid hosiery at the Red Cross Link rooms as a fundraiser. Donated oyster bottles were used and they charged 2/6 for four ounces. However, in April 1942, in a broadcast to the women of Australia, the Minister for War Organisation of Industry, Mr Dedman, announced that leg make-up preparations were now a prohibited item. They contained titanium oxide, an essential ingredient in the manufacture of paints used for camouflaging military equipment. Other items of a woman’s “battle array” such as nail lacquer, some creams and suntan lotions were also banned as they contained ingredients used in munitions and medical supplies. Featured in "Newsworthy: Melbourne in photographs 1933-1936" exhibition at East Melbourne Library, October to December 2023. Exhibition caption by project volunteer, Fiona Collyer.Glass plate negativePhotographer notations on slide: "Vic Women's Ch'ship 1935 B98".golf, royal melbourne golf club, women golfers

The Kyeema airline crash took place on 25 October 1938 when the Australian National Airways Douglas DC-2 Kyeema, tail number VH-UYC, flying from Adelaide to Melbourne, commenced final approach to Essendon Airport through heavy fog and crashed into the western slopes of Mount Dandenong, killing all 18 on board instantly. There is strong evidence that the pilots were becoming unsure of their position. According to Macarthur Job's book, Disaster in the Dandenongs, the radio operator had requested the controller at Essendon give them a radio bearing. Essendon had acknowledged and told them to leave their transmitter on, but the signal stopped and no further contact was made. It is thought that this is the moment that Kyeema hit the mountain. There were 18 people on board the DC-2: 14 passengers, the captain, the first officer, an air hostess, and a cadet pilot who operated the radio during the flight. The victims were :— THE CREW. CAPTAIN A. C. D. WEBB, 32, pilot, married, of Essendon, Victoria. JUNIOR CAPTAIN ALAN J. STEEN, 25, pilot, married, of Essendon North, Victoria. ELVA JONES, 27, air hostess, single, of Toorak, Victoria. PHILIP D. PRING, about 20, cadet pilot attached to Australian National Airways' Aeronautics School, Sydney. PASSENGERS. CHARLES ALLAN SEYMOUR HAWKER, M.P., 44, single, of Adelaide. LEONARD SYDNEY ABRAHAMS, K.C., 51, married, barrister, of Sydney. SIDNEY HILL SMITH, 41, married, managing director of S. Smith and Son, of Yalumba, South Australia. ALFRED CECIL GAIN, 42, married, barrister, of Sydney. GORDON H. GODDARD, 30, single, accountant, of North Sydney. LANCELOT WILLIAM SHIRLEY, 27, single, solicitor, of Manly. JAMES IAN MASSIE, 25, single, solicitor, of Sydney. VAUGHAN PATE, 42, refrigeration cabinet manufacturer, married, of Unley, South Australia. THOMAS M. HARDY, 48, married, head of the firm of Thomas Hardy and Sons, vignerons, of Seacliff, South Australia. GEORGE WILLIAM LING, 72, of Kingswood, South Australia, former building inspector of the Municipal Tramways Trust, Adelaide. LOUIS HUGO GRAMP, 43, married, managing director of G. Gramp and Sons, Ltd., vignerons, Rowlands (sic) Flat, South Australia. Mrs. ELIZABETH MARY SCHRADER, 69, widow, of Adelaide. Mr. and Mrs. HANS L. GLOE, of Perth.Small section of the Kyeema DC-2 fuselage made up of 5 pieces of piece of twisted and torn aluminium riveted together. Marking can be seen in red but is indistinct. Aluminium has gold, silver and green colouring.kyeema, a webb, j steen, elva jones, philip pring, charles hawker, leonard abrahams, sidney hill smith, alfred gain, gordon goddard, lancelot shirley, james massie, vaughan pate, thomas hardy, george ling, hugo gramp, elizabeth schrader, mr hans gloe, mrs gloe

Women’s Golf Championship In August 1935, the Australian Women’s Golf Championship was held at Royal Melbourne Golf Club, Black Rock, featuring visiting British golfers Pamela Barton, Phyllis Wade, Jessie Anderson, Mrs Walter Greenlees and Mrs J B Walker. Australian competitors included Katherine Rymill, Betty Nankivell, Betty Sale (MBE), Janet Gardiner, Leonora Wray (MBE), Mrs Sloan Morpeth (née Susie Tolhurst), Mrs Clive Robinson (née Christina “Nin” McMaster), Joan Hood Hammond (DBE CMG), Mrs T S McKay (née Odette Lefebvre) and Mona Macleod. Mrs J B Walker of Britain defeated Mrs Sloan Morpeth of Victoria in the final, before a gallery of 2,000, mostly women. The women watch on… 18 year-old Miss Pamela Barton of England is teeing off at the ninth hole, watched by her competitor Miss Janet Gardiner of Queensland and a gallery of intensely focussed spectators. Both women went on to have diverse, non-sporting careers. During the Blitz and the Battle of Britain, Pam Barton (1917-1943) drove ambulances before joining the WAAF as a radio operator. Later she gained a commission as a Flight Officer in command of a staff of 600. In 1943, Pam was killed instantly when the RAF plane piloted by her unofficial fiancée crashed in heavy weather. The Pam Barton Memorial Salver is awarded to the winner of the British Ladies Amateur Golf Championship. The inscription reads “In Affectionate Memory of Pam Barton”. During WWII, Janet Gardiner (Mrs Jobson-Scott, 1907-1987) began manufacturing liquid hosiery at the Red Cross Link rooms as a fundraiser. Donated oyster bottles were used and they charged 2/6 for four ounces. However, in April 1942, in a broadcast to the women of Australia, the Minister for War Organisation of Industry, Mr Dedman, announced that leg make-up preparations were now a prohibited item. They contained titanium oxide, an essential ingredient in the manufacture of paints used for camouflaging military equipment. Other items of a woman’s “battle array” such as nail lacquer, some creams and suntan lotions were also banned as they contained ingredients used in munitions and medical supplies. Featured in "Newsworthy: Melbourne in photographs 1933-1936" exhibition at East Melbourne Library, October to December 2023. Exhibition caption by project volunteer, Fiona Collyer. Published: The Age 30 August 1935 WOMEN’S CHAMPIONSHIP GOLF AT ROYAL MELBOURNE (1935, August 30). The Sun News-Pictorial (Melbourne, Vic. : 1922 - 1954; 1956), p. 35. Retrieved October 10, 2025, from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article277093639Photographer notations on slide: "Vic Women's Ch'ship 1935 B98".golf, women golfers, royal melbourne golf club

In the 1950s with the introduction two-way HF and later VHF very high frequency radio sets. Melton Rural Fire Brigade was part of the Bacchus Marsh Group. Radio sets where located in the Melton Fire Truck, and in the house of the Barrie family at Ferris Road. This was an ideal location to observe a 360 degree view in all directions when smoke appeared on the horizon. An antenna was erected beside the house. The set OX 7 was located in the kitchen and monitored 24 hours by the family. When an electrical fire occurred at the junction of the electricity to the house there was time to radio the fire station and summons the men working in the paddocks, thus saving the house from possible destruction. With the introduction of UHF – ultra high frequency Vinten Radios the signal was clearer and static and interference lessened and radio traffic became easier to read, and reduced noise levels in the household. VL3 LY Radio Base became the Group Headquarters was established in 1967. By 1970 the Brigades were: Melton, Rockbank, Sydenham, Toolern Vale, Diggers Rest, Truganina, and Werribee. In 1974 when the family moved to First Avenue, another antenna and a small building were erected adjacent to the residence and used to house the equipment, maps. Radio traffic consisted of regular schedule times and communication with adjoining groups of brigades such as Bacchus Marsh, Mt Macedon and Little River Groups. Many of the brigade and group base radios were situated in private residences and operated primarily by fire fighters wives who held the position of Communications Officer, either registered as a brigade member or informally. Edna was never registered as an operational brigade member but operated informally as an assistant to her husband Bon. She was however a member of the Melton Fire Brigade Ladies Auxiliary from its inception in 1968, a non-operational position. Edna kept up to date with radio procedure following the 1967 handbook; preparing maps, plotting compass points and taking notes on weather forecasts from the SA Border and Western District. Daily notes were taken in anticipation of fire warnings. These log books and daily radio traffic were incidental to the regular radio schedules. Emergency turnouts noted, burning off times and predicted location of smoke. In the summer fire season all TBF (total fire ban days were recorded.) In times of emergency the Barrie family assisted Bon the base radio operator to plot the position and location of fire trucks and to help clarify garbled radio traffic, keep notes and make telephone calls. These log books are held in the EE and EW Family Archive. Items selected by Wendy Barrie for viewing Melton Fire Brigade celebrationsemergency services, local identities

On 23 April, the 3rd Battalion, Royal Australian Regiment (3 RAR), under the command of Lieutenant Colonel Bruce Ferguson, and the 2nd Battalion, Princess Patricia's Canadian Light Infantry, occupied prominent hills on either side of the seven-kilometre-wide valley, where a small tributary joined the Kapyong River. Also forward were headquarters units, tanks and artillery. The 1st Battalion, Middlesex Regiment, were to the rear. Early in the evening, retreating South Koreans streamed past the Commonwealth position, with Chinese forces closely intermingled. Soon afterwards a platoon of American tanks supporting 3 RAR was overrun. The Kapyong valley was too large an area to defend with the forces available, and the brigade was spread very thinly. Throughout the night the Chinese repeatedly pressed the Australian positions, attacking in waves over their own dead and wounded. At dawn, A Company, under the command of Major Bernard "Ben" O'Dowd, found that the Chinese had infiltrated its position, but a counter-attack was able to eject them. Meanwhile B Company, which had spent the night on a hill near the riiver, discovered Chinese occupying some old bunkers on a small knoll. Hand-to-hand fighting ensued with grenades and bayonets. C Company, under the command of Captain Reg Saunders, was in position to reinforce both A and B Companies. "Major O'Dowd then directed the radio operator to contact anyone. The American 1st Marine Division answered but their operator refused to believe who our operator was speaking for. Major O'Dowd took the phone and demanded to speak to the commanding officer. The general in charge of the [Marine] division came on the phone and told O'Dowd we didn't exist as we had been wiped out the night before. Major O'Dowd said, 'I've got news for you, we are still here and we are staying here.'" Private Patrick Knowles, 3 RAR, on the morning of 24 April 1951 Fighting continued throughout the day with the Australians holding their positions, and the Chinese also engaging D Company. But late on 24 April, with their position now untenable, the Australians were forced into a fighting withdrawal down a ridge to the valley, where they rejoined the brigade. Their withdrawal was supported by New Zealand artillery from the 16th Field Regiment. Having found the Canadian position unassailable, the Chinese made no further attacks. By the afternoon of 25 April the road through to the Canadians had been cleared of Chinese and 2 PPCLI was relieved by US Army units. On Anzac Day 1951, the Australians rested after a long fight. Thirty-two Australians were killed and 53 were wounded for their part in stalling the Chinese advance and preventing Seoul from falling into enemy hands. Lieutenant Colonel Bruce Ferguson was awarded the Distinguished Service Order for his skilful leadership, and the Australian and Canadian battalions both received United States Presidential Distinguished Unit Citations for their part in the battle. http://www.awm.gov.au/exhibitions/korea/operations/kapyong/Print of painting of action in Kapyong Korea in wooden frame under glassDonated by Frank Arnold on behalf of Korean Veterans Association of Australia inc.korea, kapyong, 3rar

This badge was issued to Mrs M Deacon (mother) of 67 Cramer St, Preston to commemorate her son Flying Officer Stanley Alfred DEACON (255057) who was lost in a Consolidated Catalina A-24-22 of No. 20 Squadron RAAF, on the night of 08/09March 1943. The aircraft flown by the Commanding Officer of No. 20 Squadron W.Cdr Francis Bloomfield Chapman (271349) with Flying Officer S.A.Deacon as R.D.F. Operator (ie. radio officer) and 7 other crew members departed Cairns, and later reported being on fire, probably force landing 30 miles south east of Gasmata. A 3-4 day air search failed to find any sign of the aircraft or survivors. Gasmata is located in New Britain, Bismarck Archipelago, Bismarck, New Guinea. Stanley Alfred Deacon is commemorated at the Australian War Memorial and the Rabaul Memorial. https://www.awm.gov.au/collection/P10307635 Obverse: Circular metal (silver-coloured) badge with raised image of woman with floral bouquet. Raised lettering (see below) Suspended from badge, a rectangular metal strip (suspended by two rings) with small star held by split pin. Reverse: Hinged metal pin clasp Engraving (see below)Obverse: FOR AUSTRALIA Reverse: ISSUED BY THE C'WLTH GOVT A.F. 3713 AMOR SYDNEYww2., mothers and widows badge

SUMMARY - Edna (Myers) Barrie, 1918 – 2018, Profile Early Life Edna was born at Melton and delivered by Hannah Watts. Her mother Martha walked in the dark at night with her basket under her arm to the bridge over the Toolern Creek Bridge and into Sherwin Street to the corner of Yuille Street to Hannah’s house Lynch Cottage. Martha’s husband was away shearing and eventually heard the news of the birth of their blue eyed third child and second daughter. She was born into a family that was surrounded by music; her father played the “squeeze box” and mother the mouth organ. From an early age the family were aware of the great composers, a framed picture of Beethoven, Chopin, Schubert and Wagner hung above the door to the lounge room of their 4 roomed cottage, the room where the piano stood. Her life on stage started as a singer aged 6 years at the Melton Mechanics Institute Hall. Edna was born with a natural ear for music learning piano and singing from her older sister Marjorie who became an accomplished pianist and soloist and renowned music teacher in Melton and district. In the 1920s and 1930s concerts at the Melton Mechanics Institute were regular events were the local talent was fostered. The Myers children, like other children of Melton and Rockbank, studied singing, piano and elocution, sat examinations, entered in competitions in South Street Ballarat, Footscray and Melbourne. In 1929 a Sacred Concert was broadcast by 3AR from the Hall as part of the Back to Melton Celebrations. Marjorie Myers performed two of the items on the piano. Edna attended Melton State School 430 from 1924 – 1933. Her father Fred had also attended the same school. In 1924 the School staged Cinderella at the Melton Mechanics Institute Hall with a cast of 33 students. After completing her education a Melton she boarded in South Melbourne and attending Melbourne Girls High School (MacRobertson Girls High School), a school which recognized her musical attributes. She travelled home on the train on the weekends, sometimes getting off at Rockbank to save a few pennies in fares. Working life The early 1930s the Depression was a difficult time for a young woman to find work. Jobs were often menial and given to the youngest and therefore cheapest applicant. She worked as sales assistant at Polonskis and Myer in the city, and Irvines Modes in Footscray. Working to 1pm on Saturday, and when held up by a customer meant missing the train home. While at Myer Department store she lived at home and rode her bike to the Melton railway station. On one occasion she had a nasty fall when a part of her bicycle came loose causing the bike to crash rendering her concussed and injuring her nose. During the 1930s she was given a camera “a little snap” by Mrs Kelly her landlady. This began her interest in photography documenting family life at their “Burnbank” home. Musically, while at Myers she participated in annual performances held at The Kings Hall and the Myer Mural Hall. Working in the basement at Myers she was often embarrassed when her name was called, customers assuming she belonged to the Myer Family. Ken Myer worked in the basement at the same time handling the ‘Wheeler’, a wicker basket used for moving goods around the store. The family philosophy was for the children to start at the bottom and work their way up. Social life Social life in her teenage years was connected also with Scots Presbyterian Church. She attended Sunday School classes and received book prizes for attendance. She loved to read and welcomed the times when she received new book. She took part in the Sunday School Anniversaries and was presented with a Bible from the Superintendent, Henry Robinson for her assistance with the music. Marriage and War years In 1941 Edna married Ernest “Bonnie” Barrie. War in the Pacific was soon to break out. While in Sydney on their honeymoon they met up with Jim Barrie who was on his way to Canada via Hawaii just missing Pearl Harbour by two days. Jim became a Spitfire Pilot and joined the RAF and was based in England. He returned to Australia later in RAAF to fight the Japanese off the coast of New Guinea. The three eldest Barrie brothers were farmers and food producers and were thus except from military service. Edna and Bon were members of the VAOC- Volunteer Air Observers Corp entailing being rostered on duty as plane spotters. The women took shifts during the day and the men at night which involved staying overnight in the Shire Offices. Later the spotting tower was built in the plantation opposite the Post Office. Edna and Bon carried on with this from their home in Ferris Rd when the threat of invasion had ceased Community life Community life in Melton revolved around fund raising events for the Melton Mechanics Institute for the War effort and keeping up with maintenance for the Hall. In 1944 the Minister for Health gave approval for the Shire of Melton to open and Infant Welfare Centre inviting Edna to form part of the Committee with seven other women. In 1948 she was President of Melton Branch of the Victorian Health Centres Association. She volunteered this use of her car driving the person in charge, Sister Smith to visit mothers and their babies. In 1963, along with Betty Jones and Isabel Snell, Edna was instrumental in forming the 1st Melton Cub Pack and later supported the formation of the 1st Melton Scouts. During 1963 – 1968 she completed the Australian Boy Scout Association Cub Pack Preliminary Training and achieved her Wood Badge. Country Women’s Association In 1944-1996 she was a member of the Melton Branch Country Women’s Association (CWA), Melton Branch, Secretary of the Branch in 1945 – 1946 and Branch International Secretary 1970-1971. She worked with choir, music and drama interest groups within the branch attaining both first and second place in 1959, second place in 1952 Exhibition and second in Music in 1960 in the state. She was involved in their handicraft craft events, fund raising and musical events and singing competitions. During the 1950s she trained Trios and Quartets in part singing for the CWA competitions in Ballarat and Melbourne. It was at this time that she developed her skill as a conductor and trainer of choirs. She later auditioned for the Victorian Choir for alto parts believing she would stand a better chance of being chosen, because of her ability to sing in natural harmony. In 1962 she participated in the Tenth Australian Country Women of the World (ACWW) Triennial Conference “Australia Presents: CWA Massed Choir” in the Melbourne Town Hall. This event was recorded by Super Sound Spotlight on 45 extended play vinyl record. The songs were Australian music and words, for example The Silver Stars are in the Sky, The Graceful Swaying Wattle and Kookaburra. Edna continued with her interest in the Victorian Choir regularly meeting at the CWA Headquarters in Toorak for rehearsals. In 1974 she took part in the Australian Choir at the fourteenth Triennial conference of the ACWW Interfaith Service held at the Perth Concert Hall on the 13th of October. Arts and Culture Edna was also in the Choir of 3KZ Carols by Candlelight at the Myer Music Bowl in 1963 and 1964. Melton Choral Society. Edna was Director and Conductor in the 1970s performing at many community events such as Carols by Candle Light, Church Services, Easter and Palm Sunday services, Mothers Union and the 1976 Community Services Week Combined Church Service. The October – November 1978 Program covered the following: songs from the Musicals, Choral and Solo with Narratives, Guest Instrumental Item, Recitation Negro Spirituals and Australian Songs. Her involvement with church choirs included the Scots Presbyterian Church Choir Easter and Christmas performances and the 1967 Centenary Service. In 1980s the Melton Uniting Church Sacred Music Performances included The Crucifixion by Stainer, The Olivet to Calvary and other church Hymns. Edna was Musical Director of the Melton Amateur Theatrical Society and worked on performances in collaboration with Mabel Rogers on script and musical interpretation. Melton and District Historical Society Annual Art and Craft Show. First held in Melton Mechanics Institute Hall in 1973, it later took place in the in the Melton Community Hall. The Art Show was also run in conjunction with other community organizations such as Rotary and Girl Guides. Community history and research Melton streetscape and society Over 20 years commencing in the 1970s, Edna undertook extensive photographing of the changing streetscape of Melton’s High Street. She anticipated the impact of change on the community during the time of Melton’s rapid transition from a small farming district to a large urban community and this led to her extensively document and photograph many of the structures and landscape features of the township that have since been lost. She also meticulously recorded much of the contemporary life of the town and has left a significant legacy of archival material. Melton State School 100 Years Celebration, October 1970 Co-author with Mabel Rogers “The First 100 Years, 1870 – 1970” Assembled a collection of School Class Photograph and identified and compiled lists of names for future school history. She also assembled a photographic display for the 125th anniversary in 1995. Melton and District Historical Society (M&DHS) Foundation Member, 1968 Held President and Secretary positions from its inception Research associated with the classification of Heritage buildings Christ Church Classification C Scots’ Presbyterian Church Classification D Set up the storage and Catalogue system in the Office at the Willows Organised society visits to Heritage sites in and beyond the Shire of Melton, including Stathtulloh, Eynesbury, Deanside, ToolernVale sites including Merrywood (now demolished) Staughton Vale, Chirnside, Point Cook, Shwerkolts Cottage. 1970 – 1983 Melton and District Historical Society Letterhead. Staughton Memorial Light from early newspaper cutting in its location before restoration to present location. Sketch by Wendy Barrie. Designing and printing pamphlets, stationery, and other sale items with Willows title. M&DHS street naming research for new housing developments (1970 – 2000). Collaborated with Mary Tolhurst to research the names of early landowners and pioneer families connected to the first settlers. Researched Aboriginal names for inclusion on lists submitted to developers. An early example is the naming of Kuranjang and the street names associated with the McPherson family. Plains of Promise (Shire of Melton history) by Joan Starr (1985). Edna assisted with Historical Society materials and contributed her own research and photographs. Contacted and organised for Hubert Opperman to launch the book. (She was also present at his last bike ride at Rochester in 1995.) Western Metropolitan Groups of Historical Societies. Member attending meetings and representing Melton, also hosted the Group at Melton The Willows Member of the Committee of Management for the restoration of the “Willows” house the establishment of The Willows Park 1982 March - Official Opening of the Willows Park- Preparation and planning for the event. Involved in the collecting of items in the furnishing of the display rooms in the Willows house. Donated items and furniture from the Myers and Daley family houses. (19th century) Machinery Shed Establishment. Involved with Jeff Robinson in the construction and collection of machinery display Other significant sites Championed and participated in the restoration and preservation significant sites in Melton, including: restoration of the Staughton Memorial Light and its return to its present site restoration of the Pykes Grave (using EW Barrie earthmoving equipment) restoration and reconstruction of Dunvegan restoration and reconstruction of Macs Cottage, the management and Caretakers residence Melton State School War Memorial Gates removed from Unitt Street entrance and relocated to the Willows Park Donated the Barrie family single furrow plough which was standing at the Court House Plaza. It removed and to Council Depot and later missing. The plaque was taken to the Willows. Jimmy Melrose (aviator) cairn restoration at crash site in Melton South Donald Mackintosh (Olympic gold medallist marksman) grave site at the Melton Cemetery (Historical items held by the Myers family collection.) Houdini first flight at Diggers Rest. Edna’s father was shearing at Diggers Rest at the time and witnessed the flight. She attended the 90 year anniversary of the event at the site in 2000. Radio and electronics Edna’s husband Bon interest in wireless communication dates in the 1920s with the building of a crystal set in the early days of public broadcasting. At the Back to Melton Celebrations in 1929, 3AR broadcast a concert from the Melton Mechanics Institute on the 20th February at 8pm featuring Footscray City Band, James Hill baritone, Vera Carew Soprano, James Foran Tenor, Marjorie Myers Piano, and James Williamson Entertainer. Accompanists: Miss Agnes Ross and Mrs James Hill. The Myers children had recordings of their piano playing made onto the aluminium records, Martha Myers’ voice can be heard introducing an item. These were made in a studio in Melbourne. Marjorie was given a upright Gramophone by Donald Mackintosh in recognition of her talent and her contribution to the cultural life of Melton. The family were then able to listen to 78rpm recordings of the famous classical recordings. The turntable was hand wound metal stylus needles had to be regularly replaced. The aluminium disk needed a bamboo needle to prevent damage to the surface. Before electricity was introduced to Melton in 1939 the Mechanics Hall relied on generators to produce electricity. Bon Barrie, being mechanically minded, built a public address system for be used a community functions at the Hall and Recreational Park. By 1939 this was up and running and used for over three decades. A large Collection of 78rpm records provided music for dances, marching, parades and any public event needing music and microphones. The early system was portable and worked on batteries. CFA Radio Communication In the 1950s with the introduction two-way HF and later VHF very high frequency radio sets. Melton Rural Fire Brigade was part of the Bacchus Marsh Group. Radio sets where located in the Melton Fire Truck, and in the house of the Barrie family at Ferris Road. This was an ideal location to observe a 360 degree view in all directions when smoke appeared on the horizon. An antenna was erected beside the house. The set OX 7 was located in the kitchen and monitored 24 hours by the family. When an electrical fire occurred at the junction of the electricity to the house there was time to radio the fire station and summons the men working in the paddocks, thus saving the house from possible destruction. With the introduction of UHF – ultra high frequency Vinten Radios the signal was clearer and static and interference lessened and radio traffic became easier to read, and reduced noise levels in the household. VL3 LY Radio Base became the Group Headquarters was established in 1967. By 1970 the Brigades were: Melton, Rockbank, Sydenham, Toolern Vale, Diggers Rest, Truganina, and Werribee. In 1974 when the family moved to First Avenue, another antenna and a small building were erected adjacent to the residence and used to house the equipment, maps. Radio traffic consisted of regular schedule times and communication with adjoining groups of brigades such as Bacchus Marsh, Mt Macedon and Little River Groups. Many of the brigade and group base radios were situated in private residences and operated primarily by fire fighters wives who held the position of Communications Officer, either registered as a brigade member or informally. Edna was never registered as an operational brigade member but operated informally as an assistant to her husband Bon. She was however a member of the Melton Fire Brigade Ladies Auxiliary from its inception in 1968, a non-operational position. Edna kept up to date with radio procedure following the 1967 handbook; preparing maps, plotting compass points and taking notes on weather forecasts from the SA Border and Western District. Daily notes were taken in anticipation of fire warnings. These log books and daily radio traffic were incidental to the regular radio schedules. Emergency turnouts noted, burning off times and predicted location of smoke. In the summer fire season all TBF (total fire ban days were recorded.) In times of emergency the Barrie family assisted Bon the base radio operator to plot the position and location of fire trucks and to help clarify garbled radio traffic, keep notes and make telephone calls. These log books are held in the EE and EW Family Archive. Melton Uniting Church Edna founded the Church Opportunity with Maisie Robinson in 1975 in the Melton South Methodist Church building. Methodist and Presbyterian Churches of Melton had combined severing their long held connection with Bacchus Marsh. A Manse had been recently built for the Melton Minister. At a Parish Committee meeting at the Melton South Church it was suggested to use the building as an Opportunity Shop. It opened in July 1975, and it raised $1,600 contribution to the church budget in 1976. In 1977 The Uniting Church in Australia was formed and the Melton South Uniting Church Opportunity shop continued to go from strength to strength expanding the buildings providing the welfare needs of the community. Archive Set up by Edna Catalogued items dating from 1857 Minute Book and set ongoing system and storage of items of heritage. Melton Un Awards and recognition of service to the Melton community Rotary Award for Community Service, 1980 Victoria 150th Anniversary Celebrations contributions, 1985 Life Membership of the Melton and District Historical Society (M&DHS), 1989 Extra-Ordinary Contribution for years of service to M&DHS, 1992 Long Service for Exceptional Service MD&HS, 1993 Royal Historical Society of Victoria Award of Merit, 1997 Shire of Melton Certificate of Appreciation for continued support and dedication as a member of MD&HS to the preservation of Melton’s History, 1998 Centenary of Federation Peoplescape (Canberra) Melton Shire nomination, 2001 Uniting Church Melton Life Membership of the Opportunity Shop Uniting Church in Australia Commission for Mission for 30 years of hard work and dedications to the Uniting Church, 2007 Uniting Church Adult Fellowship Certificate appreciation in recognition of valuable support through the “Sammy” Stamp Fund Neighbourhood Watch 5 year award Photographs of Edna at different ageslocal identities