Showing 1251 items matching victoria's high country
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Kiewa Valley Historical Society
Newspaper article- Double page article. Pages 30 & 83 from the Herald Sun Newspaper. February 18, 2006 regarding preserving Victoria’s High Country Huts
... preserving Victoria’s High Country Huts... of Mr David Oldfield to preserve Victoria’s remaining High... Centre 31 Bogong High Plains Rd Mt Beauty high-country Newspaper ...The arrival of explorers Hume & Hovell in 1842 brought about the widespread clearing of land in the valleys for pastoral uses and the displacement the original inhabitants in the high country which became a boon for cattlemen due to extensive lush summer grazing for cattle. High country cattlemen built a variety of huts for shelter and storage, when driving cattle up to the plains in summer, during mustering and bringing the cattle down from the mountains before winter closed in. These same huts now provide shelter from the elements for hikers, bush walkers and skiers. Wallace’s Hut is the oldest of the Cattleman’s huts still standing in the Alpine National Park and is classified under the National Trust. Due to their age and the ravages of the elements, including bush fires, many of the huts have been destroyed, or are falling into disrepair. Groups of willing volunteers are now working to preserve as many of the huts as possible with restoration or rebuilding.The numerous cattleman’s huts of the Alpine National Park and the colourful characters who erected them represent a significant part of the history of the high country area and early cattle grazing, which has been the theme for many poets and film-makers alike. They also have a significant role in the early days of the SECV when they were used by surveyors and other workers for shelter and temporary accommodation. More recently the huts have functioned as shelter for hikers and skiers caught out in the elements and a refuge along the long trek for bush walkers. They are a popular attraction for tourists and feature prominently in much of the tourist information of the region. Black and white double page Newspaper article from the Herald Sun Newspaper of February 18, 2006 regarding the efforts of Mr David Oldfield to preserve Victoria’s remaining High Country Huts through his photography and efforts to restore old and Re-build missing ones. Article shows a photograph of David Oldfield and some of his photographic work of the huts. Page number and date printed at top of each page 30 Herald Sun, Saturday, February 18, 2006 Herald Sun, Saturday, February 18, 2006 83 cattlemen's huts; david oldfield; bogong high plains; wallace's hut; high country; alpine national park -
Kiewa Valley Historical Society
Poster Brochure, Mt Beauty Tawonga Heart Of Victoria's High Country, Circa 1995
... Mt Beauty Tawonga Heart Of Victoria's High Country... Brochure Mt Beauty Tawonga Heart Of Victoria's High Country ...The Item is a pictorial time piece of the valley and usage, farms,industry,town area, vegetation and winter snow levels Historical and the social-economical development at circa 1995 of land usage and residential buildings style.Major social events e.g. Festival of the Bogong Moth and the Mt Beauty Mardi Gras. It is also a good historical record of tourism campaigns of the Alpine Shire and Mt Beauty Chamber of Commerce. Also see "KVHS 0125"Brochure folds out from a 20.5cm x 29.5cm to 82cm x 29.5cm poster type documentinside panoramic photo of snow tipped alpine mountain range incorporating the Mount Beauty township, farming area of the Kiewa Valley and relevant tourist orientated informationtourism mt beauty tawonga photographs, victorian alps -
The Beechworth Burke Museum
Photograph, Unknown
... victoria's high country... victoria's high country colonial australia beechworth tourism things ...This undated photograph depicts two people standing in the vestibule entrance at the Burke Museum, Beechworth. The museum site dates to the 1857 founding of the Beechworth Public Library and Athenaeum by a newly formed Young Men's Association (YMA). In 1863 the museum was dedicated as a memorial to former Beechworth police superintendent (1854-1858) and explorer Robert O’Hara Burke, following Burke’s death from malnutrition on the Burke and Wills expedition in 1861. Funded by the Victorian Government and the Royal Society of Victoria, the officially titled 'Victorian Exploring Expedition' was tasked with being the first European party to traverse Australia from south to north. The Burke Museum holds objects from the famous expedition and explores the multi-layered history of Beechworth and surrounds from the gold rush era to the present.This photograph is historically significant for its depiction of the Burke Museum and Loch Street streetscape. The Burke Museum is Australia’s oldest regional museum and part of Beechworth's Historic and Cultural Precinct, one of Australia’s best preserved historic-town sites and a popular tourist destination. Once the government centre for a vast gold fields region, this collection of nationally significant buildings tells the story of how Australia grew and prospered. The frequent use of honey-coloured local granite as a building material, which can be seen in the museum's fabric, gives Beechworth’s historic buildings a distinct and cohesive local character. This photograph may be compared and studied alongside other images of historic buildings in the Burke Museum Photographic Collection.Rectangular colour photograph printed on photographic paper.Reverse: 3440burke museum, beechworth athenaeum, beechworth library, beechworth historic precinct, robert o'hara burke, australia's oldest regional museum, indigo shire, beechworth athanaeum, beechworth historic building, historic precinct, honey-coloured local granite, victorian gold fields, historic towns in victoria, victoria's high country, colonial australia, beechworth tourism, things to see in beechworth, beechworth historic trail, historic victorian architecture, burke and wills expedition, first europeans to cross australia, young men's associations -
The Beechworth Burke Museum
Photograph, 1910
... in Victoria's high country.... located in Victoria's high country. The photograph provides ...Taken in 1910, the photograph depicts a group of young, unidentified women attending a picnic in Bright; a town located in Victoria's high country.The photograph provides insight into the types of leisure activities enjoyed by residents living in Beechworth and surrounding towns. Its historical significance is strengthened by its production in 1910. Consequently, the record can be used as a resource to study the state of the natural environment in Bright at this time.Black and white rectangular photograph printed on matte photographic paper mounted on board.Obverse: "Ladies Bath" Falls / F. Foxcroft photo / Bright. / Reverse: 1997.2636 / Vera + Dorrie / Picnic at Bright area / 1910 / x / x /entertainment album, picnic, beechworth, bright, victoria, high country, 1900s, leisure -
Falls Creek Historical Society
Booklet - School Bell from the sea - Bogong State School
... State School in Victoria's High Country. The booklet consists... State School in Victoria's High Country. The booklet consists ...This booklet tells the story of the bell from the "S. S. Santhia" and how it came to Bogong State School, Victoria. "Santhia" belonged to the British India Line. On 6th November 1943 she was in service as a troopship when she caught fire and capsized at No. 3 Garden Reach Jetty, Calcutta. Due to the additional weight of water pumped into her to extinguish the fire, "Santhia" heeled over and remained in the mud of the River Hooghly until a successful salvage was completed in January 1946. The salvage operation was carried out by Captain J. P. Williams of Melbourne and his team of Australian divers nine and a half months after the commencement of operations. "Santhia" was the sixty seventh ship salvaged by Captain Williams. "Santhia's" Bell was presented by Captain Williams to Mr G.G. Jobbins, Chairman of Commissioners for installation at Bogong State School. The ceremony of presenting the bell took place on 21st February 1947. The bell bears the following inscription:- "Presented to G.G.Jobbins, Esq., Chairman, State Electricity Commission, by Captain J.P. Williams for Bogong School, on December 6th, 1946. This bell was recovered from the wreck of the "S.S.Santhia" sunk in the Hooghly River, Calcutta, and raised by an Australian salvage party."This booklet is significant because it documents an unusual event linking Bogong State School to a World War II salvage operation.A booklet consisting of images and text which tells the story of S.S. Santhia, of her sinking while in service as a troopship, of her subsequent salvage and how her bell came to Bogong State School in Victoria's High Country. The booklet consists of 12 pages including the cover. It consists of text and images. Primarily printed in black and white, the booklet uses blue boxes to highlight text including titles and explanation of images. The cover is blue with white text and features an image of the bell of the S. S. Santhia.Inside front cover: THIS BOOKLET is presented by THE STATE ELECTRICITY COMMISSION OF VICTORIA to the children of BOGONG STATE SCHOOLbogong state school, s.s.santhia, santhia bell -
Kiewa Valley Historical Society
Photograph - Photographs x 13 - Cattlemen
... of the mountain cattlemen of Victoria's high country, the harsh conditions... of the mountain cattlemen of Victoria's high country, the harsh conditions ...11 of the 13 photos were taken by Tor Holth and used in his book "Cattlemen of the High Country" first published in 1980. Co writer was Jane Holth (Barnaby). Of the other two photos, one was taken by C. Roper (2 old gentlemen of the High Plains) and the other (Fred Roper, Tom Hollonds, Kyran Marum - early cattlemen) unknown photographer. The book tells the story of the lives of the mountain cattlemen of Victoria's high country, the harsh conditions and challenges they faced when they mustered their cattle before winter to bring them down to lower pastures. Huts were built of any materials available and were scattered about the high plains to provide shelter from the elements. Some are still standing despite the many bushfires that have ravaged the area.The photographs are of historic significance as they are of early pioneers in the cattle industry in the Kiewa Valley. The huts are of significant interest as they show different types of construction and materials as does the cattle yard at Bogong Jack's. All 13 photos are black and white and printed on photographic paper and are of varying size. 1.On the back, hand written in pencil - "Bogong Jacks hut on Fainter Spur". 2.15 in top right hand corner and 120% centre of photo and circled. 2.On the back a typewritten label cut out and fixed with sticky tape "45 b.&w. Cope Hut, known also as the Menzies of the high plains." Lower left corner is a handwritten label, written in red biro, COPE HUT (underlined) V circled and Journeys into History. 3. Top right hand corner '2.32(a) and across the back, written in pencil, 'Wallace's Hut 1976' and 'TOR HOLTH' in red biro on small sticker lower R corner. 4.2.32(c) in pencil top R corner. 'Wallaces Hut 1976' in pencil across back of photo. 5. '42.7a' in pencil top R corner. Written in pencil across back of photo 'Remains of the second Tawanga Hut.' 6. 'Jim Edmundson Mt. Beauty' handwritten in blue biro across back of photo. 7. '2.26' in pencil top R corner. 'Cattle yard at Bogong Jack's' handwritten in blue biro across back of photo. 8. 'Jim Edmondson of Edmondsons hut' written in pencil on back of photo. 9. 'Geoff Wallace Kergunyah' written in pencil on back of photo. 10.' Geoff Wallace Kergunyah' handwritten in pencil on back of photo. 11. 2.11 in pencil top R corner. 'Fred Roper & Jack Platt. Ph. C.Roper' handwritten in orange pen and under, in pencil, '2 old gentlemen of the High Plains.' 12. Written in black pen across back of photo 'Left to right Fred Roper, Tom Hollonds, Kyran Marum - early cattlemen' 13. Hand written on back of photo 'Sid Ryder' photos, cattlemen, high plains, huts -
The Beechworth Burke Museum
Photograph
The photograph depicts two young men standing atop a prominent outcrop at Lake Sambell, with buildings visible on the further shore. The present day park and reserve occupies the site of the former Rocky Mountain Mining Company, an open-cut sluice mine that began operations in the mid-Nineteenth Century and operated until the early 1900s, through the peak of Victoria’s Gold Rush. It was converted into a park and leisure area in the 1920s. Lake Sambell was formally opened to the public on Friday 5th October 1928 and was opened by the Victorian Government’s Minister of Lands, Mr Bailey, as part of initiatives to boost the economies and development of country towns. The lake was named after Mr L.H. Sambell, a shire engineer and secretary of the Forward Beechworth Committee who was involved in promoting the transformation of the mining site and promoting plantation forestry and tourism as alternative industries. £300 to begin the process was provided by Mr J. McConvill, a former resident of Beechworth, who is remembered in a street name adjacent to the lake. An article in the Ovens and Murray Advertiser on Saturday, 5th May, 1917, gives some insight into issues in the Rocky Mountain Mining Company’s final years. The writer details the 1917 annual meeting of the Rocky Mountain Mining Company, stating that locals present appeared ‘well pleased this important local industry is in such a prosperous condition and that future prospects are so encouraging’. The author describes plans to give workers a bonus as evidence of profit-sharing that would ‘bridge the gulf between capital and labour’. The article concludes, however, with the statement that ‘there is a little arithmetical puzzle in the report in connection with the dredging operations I have been unable to solve.' The photograph is significant as it contributes to knowledge about how Beechworth reinvented itself after the Gold rush period, and more broadly how country towns repurpose and redevelop infrastructure and facilities to meet the present needs of their population. Sepia rectangular photograph printed on matte photographic paper. Obverse: nil. Reverse: 3471 / Velox (paper mark)beechworth, beechworth lake, lake sambell, l.h. sambell, mcconvill, rocky mountain mining company, rocky mountain mining co, minister of lands, forward beechworth committee, wallace park-lake sambell development scheme, wallace park lake sambell development scheme, lake, sambell, j. mcconvill, recreation, reserve, park, transformation, repurposed, redeveloped -
The Beechworth Burke Museum
Photograph, c1960
The photograph depicts a view across the water at Lake Sambell. The image dates from approximately 1960. The present day park and reserve occupies the site of the former Rocky Mountain Mining Company, an open-cut sluice mine that began operations in the mid-Nineteenth Century and operated until the early 1900s, through the peak of Victoria’s Gold Rush. It was converted into a park and leisure area in the 1920s. Lake Sambell was formally opened to the public on Friday 5th October 1928 and was opened by the Victorian Government’s Minister of Lands, Mr Bailey, as part of initiatives to boost the economies and development of country towns. The lake was named after Mr L.H. Sambell, a shire engineer and secretary of the Forward Beechworth Committee who was involved in promoting the transformation of the mining site and promoting plantation forestry and tourism as alternative industries. £300 to begin the process was provided by Mr J. McConvill, a former resident of Beechworth, who is remembered in a street name adjacent to the lake. Residents of Beechworth have worked to raise funds to improve the Lake Sambell reserve several times, such as efforts in the 1930s and 1940s to raise the banks several feet to deepen the water for swimming purposes. Fundraising campaigns include the ‘Ugly Man’ competition conducted on behalf of the Wallace Park-Lake Sambell Development Scheme. The latter competition was run by the Fire Brigade Bend’s team as part of a larger competition called the ‘Mile of Pennies’; it was won by Mr Len Knight of Beechworth’s Commercial Hotel. The ‘Mile of Pennies’ was conducted at a Carnival held on New Year’s Eve, 1947. It was proposed by the Beechworth and District Progress Association. As well as improving swimming facilities, funds were raised to install a caravan park facility near the lake. Funds were also donated by commercial entities, such as £250 received from Zwar Bros. Pty Ltd. The photograph is significant as it shows the level of development of Beechworth in the early to mid-Twentieth Century. Sepia rectangular photograph printed on matte photographic paperObverse: nil. Reverse: 3470 / Velox (paper mark)beechworth, beechworth lake, lake sambell, lake, beechworth and district progress association, forward beechworth committee, ugly man, mile of pennies, wallace park lake sambell development scheme, wallace park-lake sambell development scheme, zwar bros, zwar, l.h. sambell, j. mcconvill, minister of lands, commercial hotel, len knight, rocky mountain mining company, rocky mountain mining co, gold rush, redevelopment, transformation, community fundraising -
The Beechworth Burke Museum
Photograph, c1960
The photograph depicts a view across the water at Lake Sambell. The image is thought to date from the 1960s so may show the lake during a period of drought, such as that experienced across South-Eastern Australia in 1967. The present day park and reserve occupies the site of the former Rocky Mountain Mining Company, an open-cut sluice mine that began operations in the mid-Nineteenth Century and operated until the early 1900s, through the peak of Victoria’s Gold Rush. It was converted into a park and leisure area in the 1920s. Lake Sambell was formally opened to the public on Friday 5th October 1928 and was opened by the Victorian Government’s Minister of Lands, Mr Bailey, as part of initiatives to boost the economies and development of country towns. The lake was named after Mr L.H. Sambell, a shire engineer and secretary of the Forward Beechworth Committee who was involved in promoting the transformation of the mining site and promoting plantation forestry and tourism as alternative industries. £300 to begin the process was provided by Mr J. McConvill, a former resident of Beechworth, who is remembered in a street name adjacent to the lake. Residents of Beechworth have worked to raise funds to improve the Lake Sambell reserve several times, such as efforts in the 1930s and 1940s to raise the banks several feet to deepen the water for swimming purposes. Fundraising campaigns include the ‘Ugly Man’ competition conducted on behalf of the Wallace Park-Lake Sambell Development Scheme. The latter competition was run by the Fire Brigade Bend’s team as part of a larger competition called the ‘Mile of Pennies’; it was won by Mr Len Knight of Beechworth’s Commercial Hotel. The ‘Mile of Pennies’ was conducted at a Carnival held on New Year’s Eve, 1947. It was proposed by the Beechworth and District Progress Association. As well as improving swimming facilities, funds were raised to install a caravan park facility near the lake. Funds were also donated by commercial entities, such as £250 received from Zwar Bros. Pty Ltd.The photograph is significant as it shows Lake Sambell at lower water levels, such as may have been experienced during period of drought.Sepia rectangular photograph printed on matte photographic paperObverse: nil Reverse: 3470beechworth, beechworth lake, lake sambell, lake, beechworth and district progress association, forward beechworth committee, ugly man, mile of pennies, wallace park lake sambell development scheme, wallace park-lake sambell development scheme, zwar bros, zwar, l.h. sambell, j. mcconvill, minister of lands, commercial hotel, len knight, rocky mountain mining company, rocky mountain mining co, gold rush, redevelopment, transformation, community fundraising, drought, 1967, 1960s -
The Beechworth Burke Museum
Photograph, c1960
The photographs in this set depict views across the water at Lake Sambell. The images date from approximately 1960. The present day park and reserve occupies the site of the former Rocky Mountain Mining Company, an open-cut sluice mine that began operations in the mid-19th Century and operated until the early 1900s, through the peak of Victoria’s Gold Rush. It was converted into a park and leisure area in the 1920s. Lake Sambell was formally opened to the public on Friday 5th October 1928 and was opened by the Victorian Government’s Minister of Lands, Mr Bailey, as part of initiatives to boost the economies and development of country towns. The lake was named after Mr L.H. Sambell, a shire engineer and secretary of the Forward Beechworth Committee who was involved in promoting the transformation of the mining site and promoting plantation forestry and tourism as alternative industries. £300 to begin the process was provided by Mr J. McConvill, a former resident of Beechworth, who is remembered in a street name adjacent to the lake. Residents of Beechworth have worked to raise funds to improve the Lake Sambell reserve several times, such as efforts in the 1930s and 1940s to raise the banks several feet to deepen the water for swimming purposes. Fundraising campaigns include the ‘Ugly Man’ competition conducted on behalf of the Wallace Park-Lake Sambell Development Scheme. The latter competition was run by the Fire Brigade Bend’s team as part of a larger competition called the ‘Mile of Pennies’; it was won by Mr Len Knight of Beechworth’s Commercial Hotel. The ‘Mile of Pennies’ was conducted at a Carnival held on New Year’s Eve, 1947. It was proposed by the Beechworth and District Progress Association. As well as improving swimming facilities, funds were raised to install a caravan park facility near the lake. Funds were also donated by commercial entities, such as £250 received from Zwar Bros. Pty Ltd.The photographs are significant as they show the level of development in Beechworth in the middle of the Twentieth Century. Four sepia and black and white rectangular photographs printed on matte photographic paper. 3469.1: Obverse: nil Reverse: 3469-1 3469.2: Obverse: nil Reverse: 3469-2 3469.3: Obverse: nil Reverse: 3469-3 3469.4: Obverse: nil Reverse: 3469-4beechworth, beechworth lake, lake sambell, lake, beechworth and district progress association, forward beechworth committee, ugly man, mile of pennies, wallace park lake sambell development scheme, wallace park-lake sambell development scheme, zwar bros, zwar, l.h. sambell, j. mcconvill, minister of lands, commercial hotel, len knight, rocky mountain mining company, rocky mountain mining co, gold rush, redevelopment, transformation, community fundraising -
The Beechworth Burke Museum
Photograph
The old Bank of New South Wales building is located on the corner of Camp and Ford streets in Beechworth, Victoria. It was constructed between 1856 and 1857 from local honey coloured granite. It was designed by architects Robertson & Hale and is a two-storey rendered brick building and the original coat of arms is still visible. The coat of arms is distinctive and consists of a kangaroo, emu, lion, and rising sun. The rear of the building was surrounded by high granite walls for security as it was the original home for the local gold office. Beechworth Honey currently offers tourist accommodation in the Hive Apartment located in the former Bank of New South Wales Managers residence.The Bank of New South Wales building in Beechworth is significant for its location in one of Australia's most prominent goldfield towns. Of particular interest is the use of distinctive local Beechworth honey coloured granite in its construction. The building’s architecture is a simple, conservative classical style known as Renaissance Revival. It is one of the few known surviving works of the architects Robertson and Hale. The decorative composition above the main entrance and the counter in the banking chamber are of special interest.Black and white rectangular photograph printed on cardAHold bank of new south wales, bank of new south wales building, beechworth bank of new south wales, bank of nsw, beechworth 1850s, robertson and hale, architects robertson and hale, rendered brick, coat of arms, granite walls, local honey coloured granite, gold office, 1856, 1857, beechworth, beechworth honey, hive apartment, manager's residence, renaissance revival -
The Beechworth Burke Museum
Geological specimen - Unknown, possible Carnelian Agate or Chalcedony
Although it is not known where these specimens were collected, Victoria and other regions of Australia were surveyed for sites of potential mineral wealth throughout the 19th Century. The identification of sites containing valuable commodities such as gold, iron ore and gemstones in a locality had the potential to shape the development and history of communities and industries in the area. The discovery of gold in Victoria, for instance, had a significant influence on the development of the area now known as 'the goldfields', including Beechworth; the city of Melbourne and Victoria as a whole. Agate occurs when amygdales (gas pockets) form in the upper levels of basaltic lava flows. If these pockets or bubbles are iniltrated by water bearing silica in solution, the fluid dries and hardens in layers, forming round or egg shaped nodules or geodes within the rocky matrix. Agate is formed of a silica mineral chalcedony similar to quartz. The term carnelian primarily refers to the reddish shading of the stone; whether the stone is termed an agate or chalcedony type is often influenced by the degree of colour banding the specimen shows. The specimens are significant as examples of surveying activity undertaken to assess and direct the development of the mineral resource industries in Victoria and Australia, as well as the movement to expand human knowledge of earth sciences such as mineralogy and geology in the nineteenth century.Three small geological specimens that appear visually consistent with images of rough or unpolished Carnelian Agate or Chalcedony. geological specimen, geology, geology collection, burke museum, beechworth, indigo shire, north-east victoria, gemstones, agate, carnelian -
The Beechworth Burke Museum
Geological specimen - Kaolin, unknown
Kaolin is also known as china clay. This specimen came from Dunolly, Victoria and was donated to the Museum in 1868 as part of the Geological Survey of Victoria. This survey helped map and study the geology of Victoria. In Victoria, Kaolin is particularly used as a filler and coating material in paper manufacture. It can also be used in paints, ceramics, rubbers and plastics. There are many kaolin deposits in Victoria but many of these have been mined out and there is not much Kaolin left. Rocks that have a high amount of Kaolinite and it can be formed through the decomposition of other materials. There are two types of Kaolin; hard and soft kaolin. Soft kaolin's are coarse but have a soapy texture. It can also break easily. The hard kaolins have an earthly texture and are finer grained. This means that they are harder to break, unlike the soft kaolin. Hard kaolin's are formed by flocculation in salt water, a process that in basic terms, bonds particles together. Kaolin is a common material in Victoria and that is why it is significant. While this specimen was mined in Dunolly, Victoria Kaolin can also be found Pittong, Pakenham, Bulla, Hallam and Ballarat as well as many other places throughout Victoria. This specimen represents the presence of Kaolin deposits in this region of Australia. It is also significant because Kaolin has many uses and is largely beneficial to many manufacturing processes in Victoria. This specimen is part of a larger collection of geological and mineral specimens collected from around Australia (and some parts of the world) and donated to the Burke Museum between 1868-1880. A large percentage of these specimens were collected in Victoria as part of the Geological Survey of Victoria that begun in 1852 (in response to the Gold Rush) to study and map the geology of Victoria. Collecting geological specimens was an important part of mapping and understanding the scientific makeup of the earth. Many of these specimens were sent to research and collecting organisations across Australia, including the Burke Museum, to educate and encourage further study.Two pieces of Kaolinite mineral with shades of white and graygeological specimen, geology, geology collection, burke museum, beechworth, kaolin, china clay, dunolly, geological survey of victoria, kaolinite, victoria, mining, mining deposits, geology of victoria, australia, filler, coating material, paper manufacture, paint, ceramics, rubbers, plastics, decomposition, materials, soft kaolin, hard kaolin, flocculation, particles, salt water -
The Beechworth Burke Museum
Geological specimen - Selwynite, Unknown
Selwynite is a fine-grained, compact green rock made primarily of chromian muscovite (fuchsite) and diaspore. Corundum and fuchsite can occur together in the form of massive aggregates or nodules. Often, copper carbonates are found as earthy films or tiny crystals in joint planes. The mineral name honours the late A. R. C. Selwyn, founding Director of the Geological Survey of Victoria. The particular specimen, a mottled green stone suitable for carving was recovered and found in Heathcote, Victoria, Australia. The rarity and qualities of this mineral attracted commercial mining, which was not successful, but traces of the mine shafts still exist today, and it is still highly valued by mineral collectors.Selwynit is considered to be one of the rare forms of rock because it is composed of phosphate minerals containing zirconium. This is an extremely rare combination found in nature. This specimen is part of a larger collection of geological and mineral specimens collected from around Australia (and some parts of the world) and donated to the Burke Museum between 1868-1880. A large percentage of these specimens were collected in Victoria as part of the Geological Survey of Victoria that begun in 1852 (in response to the Gold Rush) to study and map the geology of Victoria. Collecting geological specimens was an important part of mapping and understanding the scientific makeup of the earth. Many of these specimens were sent to research and collecting organisations across Australia, including the Burke Museum, to educate and encourage further study.A fine grained rock composed of mainly of chromian muscovite (fuchsite) diaspore and corundum.geological specimen, geology, geology collection, burke museum, beechworth, mineralogy, heathcote, mineral collectors, selwynite, green rock, rock specimen -
The Beechworth Burke Museum
Geological specimen - Bituminous Coal, Unknown
Bituminous coal is the most common type of coal, abundantly found in ancient coal deposits which can be dated back millions of years. Often referred to as soft or black coal, this specimen exhibits a high carbon content, ranging from 76-86%. It also holds a relatively high energy density (27 MJ/kg) meaning that it releases significant amounts of energy when burned. Bituminous coal is most commonly used for electricity generation, as well as in the production of steel. This particular piece of coal was collected as part of the Geological Survey of Victoria in the nineteenth century. It originates from Cape Paterson, a seaside village located in South Gippsland, Victoria (located on Bunurong Country). The discovery of bituminous coal in this locality was first made in 1826 by explorer William Hovell. More discoveries were gradually made over the following decades and in 1859 the Victorian Coal Company commenced the first active coal mining operations in the state by sinking a number of shafts and bores near the area of Cape Paterson. Evidence of this coal-focused past can be found today at the State Coal Mine Museum in the nearby town of Wonthaggi. This specimen is significant as it was collected from the locality of Cape Paterson in Victoria, an area that has since become historically instrumental in the mining of coal and other substances in the state of Victoria. This specimen is part of a larger collection of geological and mineral specimens collected from around Australia (and some parts of the world) and donated to the Burke Museum between 1868-1880. A large percentage of these specimens were collected in Victoria as part of the Geological Survey of Victoria that begun in 1852 (in response to the Gold Rush) to study and map the geology of Victoria. Collecting geological specimens was an important part of mapping and understanding the scientific makeup of the earth. Many of these specimens were sent to research and collecting organisations across Australia, including the Burke Museum, to educate and encourage further study. A solid hand-sized piece of bituminous coal with a shiny black-grey surface and jagged edges.Existing Label: BITUMINOUS COAL / Locality: Cape / Patterson, VIC. burke museum, beechworth, geological, geological specimen, state coal mine museum, wonthaggi coal mine, victorian coal company, bituminous coal, coal victoria, coal energy generation, william hovell, cape paterson, coal specimen -
The Beechworth Burke Museum
Sculpture - Carving, c1977
Carving of a large male head made by a patient of Mayday Hills Asylum. The sculpture has been roughly hewn from a single piece of wood.Mayday Hills Asylum was one of the three largest psychiatric hospitals in Victoria, and played an important role in the treatment of mental health illnesses from its establishment in 1867 to its closure in 1995. As part of prescribed treatment, many patients participated in craft activities were they were able to create an array of objects. A limb of a tree roughly carved into the shape of the man's face featuring heavy eyebrows, moustache and beard.beechworth, burke museum, mayday hills asylum, carving, wooden sculpture -
The Beechworth Burke Museum
Sculpture - Carving, c1977
Carving of a small female head made by a patient of Mayday Hills Asylum. The sculpture as been roughly hewn from a tree limb with multiple branches.Mayday Hills Asylum was one of the three largest psychiatric hospitals in Victoria, and played an important role in the treatment of mental health illnesses from its establishment in 1867 to its closure in 1995. As part of prescribed treatment, many patients participated in craft activities were they were able to create an array of objects. A limb of a tree roughly carved into the shape of a face, featuring a wide nose, protruding eyes, and flat mouth. On a limb section that extends above the head is a carving of a small totem-like face. Two small limb sections protruding from the back. Pen lines and figures on nose and ears.beechworth, burke museum, mayday hills asylum, sculpture, wood carving -
The Beechworth Burke Museum
Sculpture - Carving, c1977
Carving of a small female head made by a patient of Mayday Hills Asylum. A grid has been drawn across the top with Romanian letters written within the cells.Mayday Hills Asylum was one of the three largest psychiatric hospitals in Victoria, and played an important role in the treatment of mental health illnesses from its establishment in 1867 to its closure in 1995. As part of prescribed treatment, many patients participated in craft activities were they were able to create an array of objects. A limb of a tree roughly carved into the shape of a woman's face, featuring a thick hair style, slanted eyes, delicate mouth, and long neck. Pen notations on top of sculpture.beechworth, burke museum, mayday hills asylum, sculpture, wood carving -
The Beechworth Burke Museum
Document - Magazine, CENTENARY ISSUE / 1867 / The New Open Door / 1967, 1967
Centenary issue of the Open Door Magazine that was produced by both staff and patients. The title reflects Mayday Hills "open door" approach to patient care.Mayday Hills Asylum was one of the three largest psychiatric hospitals in Victoria, and played an important role in the treatment of mental health illnesses from its establishment in 1867 to its closure in 1995. As part of prescribed treatment, many patients participated in craft activities were they were able to create an array of objects. 13-page A4 paper magazine with 4 copper staples.CENTENARY ISSUE / 1867 / The New Open Door / 1967 [The Australian National Coat of Arms]beechworth, burke museum, mayday hills, magazine, centenary -
The Beechworth Burke Museum
Domestic object - Rocking Horse, c1977
Child-size rocking horse made and sold by a patient of Mayday Hills Asylum. Purchased in 1978 and used by a family for generations.Mayday Hills Asylum was one of the three largest psychiatric hospitals in Victoria, and played an important role in the treatment of mental health illnesses from its establishment in 1867 to its closure in 1995. As part of prescribed treatment, many patients participated in craft activities were they were able to create an array of objects. A small wooden rocking horse painted in green, white and brown, with carpet lining on seat.beechworth, burke museum, mayday hills asylum, rocking horse, children's toys -
The Beechworth Burke Museum
Textile - Handbag, c1970
A knitted handbag made by patients of Mayday Hills Asylum.Mayday Hills Asylum was one of the three largest psychiatric hospitals in Victoria, and played an important role in the treatment of mental health illnesses from its establishment in 1867 to its closure in 1995. As part of prescribed treatment, many patients participated in craft activities were they were able to create an array of objects. A blue and white knitted handbag with cane handles, made by a patient of Mayday Hills.beechworth, burke museum, mayday hills asylum, knitting, handbag, bag, craft, fibre art -
The Beechworth Burke Museum
Textile - Handbag, c1970
Knitted handbag made by patient of Mayday Hills Asylum.Mayday Hills Asylum was one of the three largest psychiatric hospitals in Victoria, and played an important role in the treatment of mental health illnesses from its establishment in 1867 to its closure in 1995. As part of prescribed treatment, many patients participated in craft activities were they were able to create an array of objects. A pink knitted fabric handbag in moss stitch with plastic handles.beechworth, burke museum, mayday hills asylum, knitting, handbag, bag, fibre art, craft -
The Beechworth Burke Museum
Photograph - Certificate, 1905
Photo reproduction of a discipline certificate awarded to the Beechworth Fire Brigade at the Warrnambool Demonstration in 1905Reproduction of a rectangular certificate printed in black and white and on matte photographic paperObverse: Country Fire Brigades Board Victoria / 1905 / Warrnambool Demonstration / Discipline Certificate / For brigades of men / Beechworth Fire Brigadeburke museum, beechworth, emergency services, fire brigade, warnambool, fire, country fire brigade, victoria -
The Beechworth Burke Museum
Photograph - Newspaper Article, c1900
Photograph of a group of firemen posing for newspaper article holding various fire brigade equipment that was published in the Border Morning Mail Monday 15th April 1940. Sepia rectangular newspaper reproduction printed on matte photographic paperObverse: One of the many bush fire brigade units who protect the north-east of Victoria, who paraded at Beechworth on Saturday. The group includes: Messrs. E. Jessup, F.Paton, G. Witherow, J. Carney, M. Sonneman, K. Allen, G. Wald, W. Rae, W. Lee, D. Hume, J. Morrison J. Neary, A.D. Neary, J. Witherow, A.J Goonan, R. Hupwood and W. Shannon. Reverse: 7625.1emergency services, beechworth, burke museum, newspaper article, photograph, fire brigade, fire, firemen -
The Beechworth Burke Museum
Photograph, c1940s
The Bowmans Forest Fire Brigade was formed in 1906. It is one of the oldest continuous existing fire brigades in Victoria. It has an original “Fire Cart” made that year which is still in working order.Black and white rectangular photograph printed on matte photographic paperPictured: Bowmans Forest / Formed 1906emergency services, fire brigade, bowmans firest, 1906, burke museum, firemen, fire, country -
The Beechworth Burke Museum
Photograph
This original photograph depicts the grandstand and track at Baarmutha Park, Beechworth. There is a long picket fence, a hurdle, and different types of shrubbery. The record is historically significant as it is an original photograph. Furthermore, it also illustrates what the grandstand and track at Baarmutha Park looked like at the time the image was taken.Sepia rectangular photograph printed on matte photographic paper.Obverse: GRANDSTAND / RACECOURSE / BEECHWORTH / Reverse: 97.2334 /entertainment album, baarmutha park, beechworth, victoria, racecourse, grandstand, sport, athletics -
The Beechworth Burke Museum
Photograph, c. 1902
Taken in c. 1902, depicted is a group of adults and children dressed in formal clothing, with some of the women in the crowd carrying parasols, standing and sitting around and upon the rock at Queen Victoria Park on the Ford Street side of the park. This group is celebrating the official opening of the park. On top of the rock is a gas lamp post.Originally known as the Beechworth Botanical Gardens, the Queen Victoria Park features a extensive collection of historic trees and plants, which have been listed on the Indigo Shire’s Significant Tree Register. Sepia rectangular photograph printed on matte photographic paperReverse: 3716 (in black pen)/ 97.2273 (in pencil)/entertainment album, beechworth, queen victoria park, gardens & parks, opening, burke museum -
The Beechworth Burke Museum
Photograph, c. 1905
Taken in c. 1905, depicted is a large group of children and adults dressed in formal attire sitting and standing upon a granite rock that is located in the centre of Queen Victoria Park. In front of the group is a wooden picket wire fence that sides the granite rock. On top of the rock is a gas lamp post.Originally known as the Beechworth Botanical Gardens, the Queen Victoria Park features a extensive collection of historic trees and plants, which have been listed on the Indigo Shire’s Significant Tree Register.Black and white rectangular reproduced photograph printed on matte photographic paperReverse: 6956 (in pencil)/ ©/ DONALD HAYES/ BEECHWORTH (stamped in orange ink)/entertainment album, burke museum, beechworth, queen victoria park, park -
The Beechworth Burke Museum
Postcard, c. 1903
Taken in c. 1903, depicted is a large group of adults and children dressed in formal attire gathered around and upon the granite rock in the centre of Queen Victoria Park.Originally known as the Beechworth Botanical Gardens, Queen Victoria Park features a extensive collection of historic trees and plants, which have been listed on the Indigo Shire’s Significant Tree Register.Black and white rectangular postcard printed on cardObverse: QUEEN'S ROCK VICTORIA PARK BEECHWORTH Reverse: 3701/ 3641 (this has been crossed out)/ Parks & Gardens/ 1998.00059/ entertainment album, burke museum, beechworth, queen victoria park, gardens & parks -
The Beechworth Burke Museum
Postcard
Printed in the late 1880s, the postcard features a photograph of Charles Sherwood Stratton (professionally known as General Tom Thumb) and his wife, Lavinia Warren Stratton. Accompanying this image are a pair of black calf boots. Charles Sherwood Stratton and Lavinia Warren Stratton were American performers who traveled with the Barnum & Bailey Circus, founded by Phineas Taylor (P. T.) Barnum. They each participated in various acts including singing, dancing, miming, and celebrity impersonations. Both Charles and Lavinia gained international fame for their successful careers and small physical stature. Charles and Lavinia performed in Australia in August 1870. The duo were joined by their touring party as part of the Barnum & Bailey Circus "Round the World" tour. They performed at three evening events and two matinees in Beechworth during this time. Charles, Lavinia, P. T. Barnum and the circus inspired the musical drama film, "The Greatest Showman" (2017).The postcard is historically significant due to Charles Sherwood Stratton's status as an internationally renowned performer. It also provides insight into the arts in Victoria during the late nineteenth century, illustrating the type of entertainment that was enjoyed by the public during this time.Black and white rectangular postcard printed on card.Obverse: A pair of General Tom Thumb's boots presented to / the town of Beechworth, where he and three other / dwarfs gave 3 night & 2 matinee performances 1870 / General Tom Thumb toured Europe as the star of / Barnum's famous circus giving impersonation acts / He was a great favourite of Queen Victoria / He was then 34 years old and 31 inches high / His wife was 34 inches / Reverse: 3706 / POST / CARD / KODA / CORRESPONDENCE / ADDRESS ONLY / KODAK / KODAK / A02450 /entertainment album, general tom thumb, charles sherwood stratton, lavinia stratton, circus, p.t. barnum, barnum and bailey circus, arts, performance, recreation, entertainment