Pam Stone was the first woman elected to the Wodonga City Council and first woman elected Deputy Mayor and later Mayor of the Rural City of Wodonga. She was born in Swan Hill on 22nd January 1929. Her early years were spent in Mildura, Melbourne and Swan Hill but she lived most of her adult life in Albury Wodonga. Pam attended school in Melbourne and was also a member of the Catholic Club where she met her future husband, Les Stone. They married on 18th April 1949 at St. Patrick’s Cathedral Melbourne. On graduating from Melbourne Teachers College, Les was posted to several small country schools before being transferred to Wodonga in 1956. After a period teaching in Gippsland, the Stone Family returned to Wodonga. Les taught at several schools in the district before being promoted to Principal of Wodonga West Primary. Following involvement in many community organisations Les was elected as Councillor for the West Ward, Wodonga in 1967. He was re-elected unopposed in 1970 and 1971, becoming Mayor in 1973. He passed away in office in December 1974 Les Stone’s service was only possible with the support of Pam who also took a major role in public life and serving the Wodonga community. Four years after his death, Pam stood for and won the Council Ward of Wodonga West Riding, previously held by Les. Pam held the West Riding unopposed for her 15 years on Council from February 1977 to August 1992. This included a term as Deputy Mayor from August 1979 to August 1980. In August 1985 Pam was elected as Wodonga’s 6th Mayor and served in that role until August 1986. In 1978 Pam was made a Justice of the Peace and regularly sat in the Court of Petty Sessions Magistrates Court Wodonga. Pam’s commitment to education from preschool to post-secondary education was also a lifelong passion. Her strong advocacy made a defining difference to education available in Albury Wodonga from pre-school to tertiary education. On 27th October 1994, she was named by Wodonga Technical and Further Education College as a Friend of the College. Pam was conferred with the Order of Australia Medal on Australia Day 26th January 1994. Her citation read: “For service to local government and the community”. In 2010 Wodonga City Council dedicated parkland to mark her contribution. The signage reads: ‘Pam Stone OAM Wodonga’s first female Councillor (1977) and Mayor (1985), is recognised among the most important centenary pioneers of Wodonga. Pam was married to Les Stone, also a Mayor of Wodonga. Pam gave compassionate and effective support to the underprivileged people of Wodonga. She had a profound input in establishing Post-school education in Wodonga and Albury’. Pam Stone passed away in Albury on 6th August 2022. These photos are significant because they depict a female pioneer of local government and education in Wodonga.A set of black and white and colour images of Pamela Mary Stone.pamela stone, wodonga councillors, wodonga local government, wodonga mayors

Thomas Cunningham Reidy was a native of Clare, Ireland. Shortly after arriving in Australia, he was employed as a travelling salesman for a brewery at Seymour, Victoria. In about 1872 with Mr Andrew McCormick, he carried on a business as storekeeper at various points along the North-Eastern Railway whilst the line was being constructed, finally arriving in Wodonga. Their partnership continued with the construction of the Carrier’s Arms Hotel and a general store which opened in 1874. The store drew trade from as far away as Wagga Wagga in New South Wales. The Carrier's Arms was also a coach stop for the Bethanga Express Coach. When the Wodonga Shire was created in 1876 after being severed from the Yackandandah Shire, Thomas Reidy was one of the first Councillors. He resigned in the following year, but was re-elected a year later. He served as Shire President in 1880–1881 and again in 1883–1884. He also served as a Justice of the Peace. In 1884 the partnership between Thomas Reidy and Andrew McCormick was terminated and the Carrier’s Arms was sold to Edmund T. Powell. Mr Reidy purchased the Tangambalanga Estate near Kiewa where he focussed on stock breeding, including horses. Whilst at Kiewa he was also one of the promoters of the local butter factory, and was the Chairman of the first Board of Directors of the Kiewa Butter Company. Early in 1896, Thomas Reidy sold Tangambalanga Estate to Mr L. R. Davies-Griffith, having already purchased the Club Hotel in Morwell. Unfortunately, he died in Morwell on 15th December 1896 leaving behind his wife Mary and 10 children including a new-born son.This portrait is significant because it depicts a citizen of Wodonga who played an important role in commerce and local government in Wodonga.A colourised photo of T.C. Reidy in an oval plastic frame.t.c. reidy, wodonga councillors, carriers' arms wodonga

This dress was worn by Mrs Beryl Yensch, wife of Councillor Royce Evan Yensch, to the official opening of the Wodonga Civic Centre on 22nd April 1971. Councillor Yensch served as a Councillor representing the Greenhill Riding from 1968 until his resignation in 1974. In 1969 Melbourne architect Bruce Marshall was engaged to design the civic centre which included a library, theatre and senior citizens' rooms. The main hall had a seating capacity of 1,000 people but could be divided by a sliding door. into smaller areas. It also included meeting rooms and kitchen facilities. The Civic Centre was officially opened by the Honorable Sir Henry Bolte, K.C.M.P., M.P., Premier of Victoria who was accompanied by the Honorable R. J. Hamer E.D., Minister for Local Government. The Shire President was Cr. James A. Terrill, J.P. The Civic Centre was demolished in January 2011 to be replaced by the Cube and Hyphen, now the cultural centre of Wodonga. This dress has social significance because it was worn by the wife of a Councillor of the Rural City of Wodonga at the opening of the new Wodonga Civic Centre on 22nd April 1971.A long formai pink dress featuring pintucking and small pearl buttons on the bodice and sleeves worn to the official opening of the Wodonga Civic Centre in 1971. The programme for that event is also included.yensch wodonga, rural city of wodonga, wodonga councillors

This badge is a Royal Agricultural Society of Victoria (RASV) Member Badge The RASV (now known as Melbourne Royal) is the organization responsible for hosting major agricultural events in Victoria, Australia, most notably the annual Melbourne Royal Show. Key Features of the Badge: • The Motto: "Speed the Plough" is the traditional motto of the RASV. It dates back centuries in English agricultural tradition and symbolises a wish for success, good harvest, and progressive innovation in farming. • The Monogram: The stylized interlocking letters in the yellow centre spell out RASV (Royal Agricultural Society of Victoria). • The Crown: The St Edward's Crown sitting at the top signifies the "Royal" status of the society. • The Classification: The scroll at the bottom marks the bearer specifically as a financial Member. • The Cord: The braided brown cord allowed the member to wear the badge securely around their neck while visiting the showgrounds or attending society functions. These metal and enamel badges were issued annually or as multi-year passes to financial members and guests, changing color schemes and design layouts depending on the specific year or decade of issue. They are highly popular collector's items today for those interested in Australian agricultural show memorabilia. The number 3302 stamped or engraved on the back is the individual Membership Number of Mr. Donald Pollard of Wodonga. Because these badges served as official admission passes to the Melbourne Royal Show grounds, tracking information was vital to the society. The badge was manufactured by Brim Medallions Pty Ltd located in Mitcham in Melbourne. Melbourne. This badge is significant because it belonged to a highly regarded member of the Wodonga and district community.Small enamelled metal badge showing insignia of Royal Agricultural Society of Victoria (RASV) Member Badge with a crown on top and member on bar below central insignia. It is attached to a brown cord.Around edge of badge "SPEED THE PLOUGH"royal agricultural society of victoria, wodonga councillors

On Saturday 13 May 2000, Victorian Mounted Rifles Squadron, 4th/19th Prince of Wales's Light Horse Regiment departed Buna Barracks Albury and relocated to its new depot at Building 105 North Bandiana. The occasion was marked by a parade through the main streets of Albury and Wodonga. The mayor of Albury, Councillor Les Langford, farewelled the regiment and the mayor of Wodonga, Councillor Graham Crapp, welcomed the regiment to Wodonga. At Building 105, the Area Commander, Colonel Chris Anstey, welcomed the regiment and handed over the building to Lieutenant Colonel Michael Annett, Commanding Officer 4th/19th Prince of Wales's Light Horse. Colour photograph of three M113 Light Reconnaissance Vehicles (LRVs) driving into a large timber framed building.annett, anstey, bandiana, crapp, langford, buna barracks, 4th/19th, vmr

On Saturday 13 May 2000, Victorian Mounted Rifles Squadron, 4th/19th Prince of Wales's Light Horse Regiment departed Buna Barracks Albury and relocated to its new depot at Building 105 North Bandiana. The occasion was marked by a parade through the main streets of Albury and Wodonga. The mayor of Albury, Councillor Les Langford, farewelled the regiment and the mayor of Wodonga, Councillor Graham Crapp, welcomed the regiment to Wodonga. At Building 105, the Area Commander, Colonel Chris Anstey, welcomed the regiment and handed over the building to Lieutenant Colonel Michael Annett, Commanding Officer 4th/19th Prince of Wales's Light Horse. Colour photograph of Colonel Chris Anstey addressing a group from 4th/19th Prince of Wales's Light Horse regiment at Building 105 North Bandiana.annett, anstey, bandiana, crapp, langford, buna barracks, 4th/19th, vmr

On Saturday 13 May 2000, Victorian Mounted Rifles Squadron, 4th/19th Prince of Wales's Light Horse Regiment departed Buna Barracks Albury and relocated to its new depot at Building 105 North Bandiana. The occasion was marked by a parade through the main streets of Albury and Wodonga. The mayor of Albury, Councillor Les Langford, farewelled the regiment and the mayor of Wodonga, Councillor Graham Crapp, welcomed the regiment to Wodonga. At Building 105, the Area Commander, Colonel Chris Anstey, welcomed the regiment and handed over the building to Lieutenant Colonel Michael Annett, Commanding Officer 4th/19th Prince of Wales's Light Horse. Colour photograph of 4th/19th Prince of Wales's Light Horse regimental band entering the gate to Building 105 North Bandiana.annett, anstey, bandiana, langford, 4th/19th, vmr, band

On Saturday 13 May 2000, Victorian Mounted Rifles Squadron, 4th/19th Prince of Wales's Light Horse Regiment departed Buna Barracks Albury and relocated to its new depot at Building 105 North Bandiana. The occasion was marked by a parade through the main streets of Albury and Wodonga. The mayor of Albury, Councillor Les Langford, farewelled the regiment and the mayor of Wodonga, Councillor Graham Crapp, welcomed the regiment to Wodonga. At Building 105, the Area Commander, Colonel Chris Anstey, welcomed the regiment and handed over the building to Lieutenant Colonel Michael Annett, Commanding Officer 4th/19th Prince of Wales's Light Horse. Colour photograph of M113 Light Reconnaissance Vehicles (LRV) of Victorian Mounted Rifles Squadron, 4th/19th Prince of Wales's Light Horse regiment parading through Dean Street Albury.annett, anstey, bandiana, langford, 4th/19th, vmr, band, albury

On Saturday 13 May 2000, Victorian Mounted Rifles Squadron, 4th/19th Prince of Wales's Light Horse Regiment departed Buna Barracks Albury and relocated to its new depot at Building 105 North Bandiana. The occasion was marked by a parade through the main streets of Albury and Wodonga. The mayor of Albury, Councillor Les Langford, farewelled the regiment and the mayor of Wodonga, Councillor Graham Crapp, welcomed the regiment to Wodonga. At Building 105, the Area Commander, Colonel Chris Anstey, welcomed the regiment and handed over the building to Lieutenant Colonel Michael Annett, Commanding Officer 4th/19th Prince of Wales's Light Horse. Major General David McLachlan was Honorary Colonel of 4/19 Prince of Wales's Light Horse.Colour photograph of Lieutenant Colonel M Annett, Councillor G Crapp, Major General McLachlan and Councillor L Langford on dais just prior to the march past of Victorian Mounted Rifles Squadron, 4th/19th Prince of Wales's Light Horse regiment parading through Dean Street Albury 13 May 2000.annett, anstey, bandiana, langford, 4th/19th, vmr, band, albury

After meeting for 14 years in rented premises, in the Prince of Wales Hall, Wodonga Council built its first Shire Hall on the corner of High and Elgin Streets in 1890. The first Shire Hall was demolished in 1971. The second building, Wodonga’s new Municipal Offices in Woodland Grove were used for the first time by Wodonga Councillors on 7th August 1957. The Woodland Grove building has since been used for a range of purposes, most recently as a café, but is currently unoccupied. The third purpose-built council chambers were opened in November 1976 with the first council meeting there on 1st December 1976. Westminster Fine China Australia started in the Melbourne suburb of Cheltenham at 7 Arnold Street, in 1954 by Stanley Rogers and Son Ltd. They initially used imported blanks from Japan, which were made to their specifications, and which were then decorated locally. They produced a standard range of shapes for souvenir ware, later expanding into a wide range of tea sets, dinnerware and many other styles of china ware. The Abbey mark, based on Westminster Abbey in London, was used from the start of production until about 1962.Woodland Grove was named in honour of Wodonga Shire’s first president, John Woodland. The building depicted served as the centre of municipal government for approximately 20 years, throughout the 1960s and 1970s. Woodland Grove is a central point in the Wodonga CBD and a focus for many civic and cultural activities.Small square plate with gold trim and central coloured image of Wodonga Shire Chambers. The trademark of Westminster Fine China Australia is on the under side of the plateOn front beneath image "SHIRE CHAMBERS WODONGA VIC" Underneath the plate, surrounding an drawing of Westminster Abbey "FINE CHINA/WESTMINSTER CHINA /AUSTRALIA/ 7" municipal offices, woodland grove wodonga, souvenirs, westminster china

The Wodonga Waterworks Trust was established in 1897 to control and improve water supply to Wodonga. This included focus on the water quality which had often been a problem. After lobbying the Victorian Department of Water Supply for several years, the first official meeting of the officially constituted Wodonga Waterworks Trust was held on Wednesday 20th October 1897. The Board initially consisted of all Wodonga Shire Councillors together with Mr Samuel Mason Jr., as the nominee of the Government. Councillor McFarlane was appointed as the first Chairman. This Seal was used to endorse all official documents issued by the Trust. Documents placed between the two plates of the Seal would be embossed with the Trust’s emblem.This item is significant because it is representative of the first local government body constituted to improve water supply to Wodonga.A heavy metal seal machine used to make the imprint of the Wodonga Waterworks Trust. The seal is embossed on a circular disc. The imprint, which is not visible when assembled, shows an imprint of a woman in Grecian-style clothes carrying a water ewer on her shoulder.Around circular seal - WODONGA WATERWORKS TRUSTwodonga waterworks trust, water supply wodonga

A wide range of souvenirs have been produced to commemorate Wodonga and its landmarks over time. These items document key changes in Wodonga and its heritage. The arch is named in honour of Cr Charles Pollard, a foundation member of the Wodonga Show Society and former Wodonga Shire councillor and president. The arch is 29 metres wide and 15 metres high and consists of two boomerangs coming together to form an archway. Originally spanning across a single carriageway of the Lincoln Causeway, the arch was opened by Princess Alexandra of Kent in 1959 and was built for £1230. When the Country Roads Board said the causeway would have to be duplicated in 1973, a new home was required for the arch. At the request of the Wodonga Show Society, the arch was moved to the entrance of the showgrounds in 1982. After development of the precinct in 2015, the Pollard Arch was erected on Hamilton Smith Drive Wodonga.Small china pieces carrying scenic views of holiday destinations were a popular kind of souvenir during much of the 20th century. These items have local and social significance as they reflect the landmarks or local features valued by the community over time.Fine china round plate, white with image of the Pollard Archway in Wodonga, Victoria in the bottom third of the plate. Inscription below the image.On bottom of image "Pollard Archway, Wodonga, Vic". Manufacturer's mark on back "St Kilda/ Fine China/ Australia / Hand Painted"souvenir, wodonga, victoria, pollard archway, landmarks wodonga

This bottling of Wodonga Centenary Port was provided by Morris Wines of Rutherglen to celebrate the Centenary of local government in Wodonga. Wodonga Shire was created in 1876 when the colonial government agreed to ratepayers' petitions to have their northern area severed from the Yackandandah Shire and form a new municipality. In 1976 celebrations were held to mark this milestone. These bottles were donated to the Wodonga & District Historical by Jenny Brown nee Terrill daughter of former Wodonga Shire President, Councillor J. A. Terrill. These bottles of the Wodonga Centenary Port were signed by all of the councillors serving in 1976.This artefact represents the celebrations for the centenary of local government in Wodonga.3 bottles of port produced by Morris Wines of Rutherglen. This bottling celebrated the centenary of local government in Wodonga. The label is on beige paper with a maroon outline and black text. These bottle have been autographed and bear the numbers 238. 248 and 343.On Label: "WODONGA / CENTENARY PORT/BOTTLED 1976/ THIS 1975 PORT WAS SPECIALLY/ SELECTED & BOTTLED TO CELEBRATE / ONE HUNDRED YEARS OF LOCAL GOVERNMENT IN WODONGA/ 10th MARCH 1876 - 1976/ MORRIS WINES / OF RUTHERGLEN/ PRODUCT OF AUSTRALIA NET 738 ml/ NO 343 E2314wodonga shire council, wodonga local government, wodonga local government centenary

These town photos are part of a collection donated by Elaine Mann and Olive Codling. Miss Olive Codling was a Foundation Member and a Life Member of the Wodonga Historical Society. Many of her prize-winning photos are held in the Society Collection. She also held a range of roles and committee positions in a wide range of Wodonga community organisations. These included the Horticultural Society, the Wodonga Arts Council, the Wodonga Camera Club and the Wodonga Lapidary Club.This photo collection is significant as it documents how the businesses and buildings in Wodonga have evolved and contributed to community throughout the 20th century.Wodonga Home Furnishers located beside the old railway crossing in High Street, Wodonga. Wodonga Home Furnishers was owned by Les Cheesely who was also a Councillor on Wodonga City Council from 1981 to 1994. The building was demolished in November 1998 to make way for the realignment of Elgin Street to join what was then Jack Hore Place. The railway crossing has since been removed as the railway line now bypasses the city centre.wodonga businesses, high st wodonga, wodonga home furnishers, les cheesely

Wodonga Waterworks Trust was established in 1897 to control and improve water supply to Wodonga. This included focus on the water quality which had often been a problem. After lobbying the Victorian Department of Water Supply for several years, the first official meeting of the newly constituted Wodonga Waterworks Trust was held on Wednesday 20th October 1897. The Board initially consisted of all Wodonga Shire Councillors, together with Mr Samuel Mason Jr., as the nominee of the Government. Councillor McFarlane was appointed as the first Chairman. This Record Book contains documentation of expenditure of the Wodonga Waterworks Trust from 1908 through to the early 1950s. This includes the official record of payments of £2,897/ 18 /- and £130 to contractor A. A. Hargrave for Erection of the Water Tower. Other payments related to the Water Tower include entries for pumps, gears, pipe laying, pipes, the pump station and related fittings. Construction of the Water Tower was completed in early 1924 and after thorough testing throughout that year, the completed new water system for Wodonga was officially opened on 4th December 1924.This item is significant because it contains financial records related to the construction of one of the oldest and most significant buildings in Wodonga.This large ledger contains both hand written and typed notes documenting financial reports of the Wodonga Water Trust over 40 years. The cover is dark green with brown binding. In the centre of the cover is an red rectangle with text and a border printed in gold.On front cover within gold border BALANCE RECORD WODONGA WATERWORKS TRUSTwodonga waterworks trust, wodonga water tower, a. a. hargrave

non-fictionResearch paper into the viability of relocating Cambourne Homestead in 2006 in order to make way for the widening and upgrade of the Hume Highway. cambourne homestead wodonga, heritage building wodonga, carkeek family, potter family, building relocation

John Whan was born in Carlton of Irish parents and moved with them to Wodonga by bullock dray at the age of 12. After completing his education in Wodonga, John became manager of McLean Brothers and Rigg branch store in Sydney Street, Wodonga for a number of years after which he bought the business and operated Whan’s General Store in Sydney Road, Wodonga which at its peak employed his six children. John Whan was Wodonga Shire Councillor for 15 years, including a term as Shire President in 1904-5. He was also Chairman of the Wodonga Water Trust when it built the water tower in 1922 – 23. He had many other community involvements including the School board and the Library Committee, served as an honorary justice and Deputy Coroner. secretary of the Wodonga branch of the I.O.O.F., and the Wodonga Cemetery Trust and the Masonic Lodge. He was a foundation member of the Presbyterian Church in Wodonga. He died on 10 October 1933. After his death, Whan's store was operated by John's son Francis William Whan who was born in Wodonga on 1 September 1901. He also served the community as a Justice of the Peace and Magostrate. Frank was a caring gentleman who looked after many during the difficult times of the Depression and World War 11. He continued to provide outstanding service to the Wodonga community. Frank was a dedicated member of the Presbyterian Church. The Whan General Store was purchased by Lincoln and Butterworth in 1945 and Francis and his family moved to Queensland He passed away in Lismore, NSW on 24 December 1975.These photographs represent the business of a prominent Wodonga family and community member.3 black and white photographs showing the Whan store in Wodonga at various stages in its developmentwodonga businesses, whan's store, whan family

Cambourne homestead was built by 1903 for Rebecca S. Carkeek, who purchased the property in Wodonga in 1899. Cambourne is situated on the original Wodonga Run which was established in 1836. In 1855 the pre-emptive right of 171 acres of the Wodonga Run was granted and sold the following year. The allotments on which the five-acre Cambourne property developed, were purchased in 1873 and 1876, coinciding with the opening of the Railway from Melbourne. The property was purchased by Rebecca Carkeek in June 1899, wife of William Carkeek, Publican of Wodonga and Shire Councillor. Local architects Gordon and Gordon have been credited with the design of Cambourne. The house at Cambourne was built at some stage between 1900 and 1903 as a large single storey homestead. It was constructed in red brick with corrugated iron roof and encircling verandah. Cambourne is a probable work of architects Gordon and Gordon, it is amongst their best preserved and one of their few surviving buildings in Victoria. Today Cambourne remains on a reduced allotment due to the acquisition of land in 1972 by the Country Roads Board and in 2006 by Vic Roads for road works adjacent to the property.Cambourne, Wodonga is of architectural and historical significance to the State of Victoria.A set of coloured photos depicting Cambourne in Wodonga. Part of a collection documented a heritage listed pioneer home.cambourne wodonga, cambourne homestead wodonga, historic buildings wodonga

Cambourne homestead was built by 1903 for Rebecca S. Carkeek, who purchased the property in Wodonga in 1899. Cambourne is situated on the original Wodonga run which was established in 1836. The township of Belvoir, later renamed as Wodonga. In 1855 the pre-emptive right of 171 acres of the Wodonga run was granted and sold the following year. The allotments on which the five-acre Cambourne property developed, were purchased in 1873 and 1876, coinciding with the opening of the railway from Melbourne. The property was purchased by Rebecca Carkeek in June 1899, wife of William Carkeek, publican of Wodonga and shire councillor. Local architects Gordon and Gordon have been credited with the design of Cambourne. The house at Cambourne was built at some stage between 1900 and 1903 as a large single storey homestead. It was constructed in red brick with corrugated iron roof and encircling verandah. Cambourne is a probable work of architects Gordon and Gordon, it is amongst their best preserved and one of their few surviving buildings in Victoria. Today Cambourne remains on a reduced allotment due to the acquisition of land in 1972 by the Country Roads Board and in 2006 by Vic Roads for road works adjacent to the property.This drawing is significant as a representation of Cambourne in Wodonga. Cambourne is of historical significance due to its links with the early settlement of the district and as an example of closer settlement which occurred in regional centres of the State. Cambourne, Wodonga is also of architectural significance as a largely intact late Victorian style house with elaborate decorative cast iron work and distinctive transverse plan. As a probable work of architects Gordon and Gordon, it is amongst their best preserved and one of their few surviving buildings in Victoria. A framed drawing of historic home, Cambourne in Wodonga. The drawing has been mounted and framed.On bottom right corner" Kevin P. Clark 1984"cambourne wodonga, gordon and gordon architects, historic buildings wodonga, heritage buildings wodonga

Mrs Jessie Beardmore, wife of the Shire President, Mr Henry Beardmore, was invited to switch on the electrical current at the power house in Wodonga on 15th January 1912. This was not the official opening of the newly installed system which took place a few weeks later. Disagreement existed amongst Shire Councillors about the official opening, several of them including Mr Beardmore believing the opening should only take place when the scheme was completed. However Dr Schlink, Mr D. M. Stavely, Cr Twomey and Mr C. Holloway, Engineer for the Electric Lighting Company, arranged a small ceremony to turn lights on for the first section of the scheme. This included street lighting along Sydney Street between South Street and the Shire Hall as well as a few business houses and private establishments, with the balcony of the Terminus Hotel illuminated by over 100 lights. Other areas and buildings were connected over the following weeks. Mr Beardmore was not present at the beginning of proceedings but joined the crowd in the street. During a small number of speeches, credit for his work to instigate and further the introduction of electricity to Wodonga was given to Councillor Twomey, referred to as “the father of the scheme”. This item is significant because it records the first connection of electricity to Wodonga in 1912.A hand written letter addressed to Mrs Beardmore of Wodonga. A portrait of Mrs Beardmore is also included. A transcript of the letter is included below. Wodonga 15 -1-12 Mrs Beardmore Wodonga Dear Madam, Mr Holloway, Engineer for the Electric Lighting Company, has invited me to invite you as the wife of the Shire President to switch on the electric supply for the town at the power house not later than 8.30PM (this evening). Hoping that you and Mr Beardmore can make it convenient to attend. I remain yours sincerely, R. H. Schlinkbeardmore family, electricity in wodonga

This laundry basket was made by Mr Walter Bullock helped by his son John at his workshop behind his house at No 35 High Street, Wodonga. This business was known as "Cantetex" and was given as a wedding present to Colin and Jennifer Hore in 1959. Mr Bullock passed away in Wodonga on 20 November 1973. Colin Hore is the son of Jack Hore, a very prominent member of the Wodonga Community. Jack Hore was awarded the Order of the British Empire, MBE in January 1962 for service as a Councillor of the Wodonga Shire Council. He held a Council seat continuously for 32 years, including eight terms as President. He also served two terms as Chairman of the Wodonga District Hospital Board 1961-62, having been a member of the board since 1954. He held a seat on the Victorian Country Fire Authority for many years until his death in 1970, having been a member of Wodonga Urban Fire Brigade since 1940. Jack played football with Wodonga for 14 years and coached the team to premiership honours in the Chiltern and District League in 1926. He was club treasurer from 1926 to 1940. Jack was also a Foundation member of Wodonga Show Society.This item is significant because it belonged to a member of a prominent Wodonga family and was manufactured in Wodonga.A laundry basket made from rattan cane work. The lid is cover in blue and white textile.walter bullock, cane furniiture, jack hore mbe

These signature stamps were used by Ray O’Toole and Des Packer in their roles on Wodonga Council. Mr Ray O'Toole worked at Prahran, Springvale, Keilor and Yarrawonga Councils before joining Wodonga as Chief Clerk and accountant in 1972. In 1973, Mr O'Toole became Deputy Town Clerk and was appointed as the Chief Executive Officer in 1980. He retired from that role in1994 when all local governments throughout Victoria were dissolved by the Kennett government in a major reorganisation. Ray was elected as a Councillor to the newly formed Council in 1997 and served until 2005. He died in Wodonga on 2nd August 2022. Des Packer was appointed as Finance Director of Wodonga Council in July 1989 after previously serving as Deputy Town Clerk.This item is significant because it documents key officers in the Wodonga City Council.Two rubber signature stamps attached to metal backing strip. These stamps would be attached to a handle to apply signatures to Wodonga Council cheques.wodonga city council, ray o'toole, des packer

Wodonga was declared Victoria’s first Rural City in 1973. John Macaulay was appointed to the first Council. John was born in Melbourne but moved to the Wodonga district as a teenager. During World War II he joined the infantry and served in New Guinea. After the war he took up a farm in Gundowring but due to war-related health issues, John and his wife Monica semi-retired to Wodonga in 1967. He was elected to Council in a by-election in 1973. John continued to serve on the Wodonga Council until 1991 including four terms as Mayor from 1982–1983, 1983–1994, 1987–1988 and 1990–1991. John Macaulay died in Wodonga in 2012.These badges are significant because they were worn by a Wodonga Council Mayor and Mayoress.A collection of name badges for the Mayor and Lady Mayoress of the Rural City of Wodonga. john macaulay, wodonga mayors, wodonga civic leaders

The Right, Title, Privilege, Honour and Distinction of marching through the streets of a city on all ceremonial occasions with bayonets fixed, drums beating, bands playing and colours flying is one of the most interesting of the Military Traditions. The tradition of Freedom of Entry to a city stems from a custom observed by British Regiments in marching through the city of London. The fathers of the city of London claimed that they had the right to forbid bodies of Armed Forces from marching through the city precincts with bayonets fixed, colours flying and music playing, basing this claim on 'Ancient Privileges' which appear to have originated shortly after Charles Il became King in 1660. Military units were then only allowed to enter the city by invitation. The custom has been adopted by many Australian cities and shires. The privilege is usually only extended to Units which have a close association with the city and provides a means of honouring an Army Corps. The Freedom of the City of Wodonga has been conferred on different units based at Bandiana on several occasions. This Certificate commemorates the granting of Freedom of the City of Wodonga on the occasion of the 10th Anniversary of the Vietnam and Associated Veterans Club which was accompanied by a military parade on 11th August 2003. This Certificate is significant because it recognises the relationship between the City of Wodonga and the military forces which have served in the district.A framed certificate declaring the granting of Freedom of the City of Wodonga to Veterans, Ex-service and Service men and women of Australia who served Australia since the cessation of hostilities of the second World War. It bears the common seal of the City of Wodonga and was signed by Mayor Lisa Mahood, Councillor John Watson and Chief Executive Officer Peter Marshall.freedom of the city wodonga, military wodonga

John Henry Perry, known as "Jack" arrived in Wodonga in May 1929 with his wife and children. He took over the licence of the Junction Hotel, now known as "The Stump", Bandiana from Mr Bill Carter. Prior to this he had worked in three Australian states as a shearer. He held the licence until 1941 when he passed it over to his son John ("Jack"). After two years of retirement, John Snr purchased the freehold of the Carriers Arms Hotel in Wodonga where he held the licence until the mid-1950s. By 1952, aged 69, he also had the freehold of the Railway Hotel as well as the Commercial Hotel in Mooroopna, Victoria. John Perry served some time as a councillor on the Wodonga Council. In later life he also became a member of the Wodonga Bowls Club. John's descendants owned Wodonga’s Blazing Stump Hotel for 80 years until it was sold in 2008. They then developed the nearby Wodonga Homemaker Centre and invested in the development of other ventures including the Huon Hill Hotel and Valentines Bakeries. John Henry Perry died in Wodonga on 21st June 1980, aged 96 years old.These cards are significant because they are examples of business promotions from a long established Wodonga business.Two small cards from Jack Perry's Blazing Stump Hotel Wodonga. Used as a business promotion in the 1970s.perry's stump hotel, john henry perry

This flag is a memento produced for Princess Alexandra of Kent's visit to Wodonga in 1959. Princess Alexandra visited Australia as the representative of Queen Elizabeth II for the Queensland Centenary Celebrations. Her six-week visit began with her arrival in Canberra on 14th August and she departed from Canberra on 26th September. Time spent in Australia included three weeks in Queensland. Her Royal Highness' visits to New South Wales and Victoria were comparatively brief and informal. In New South Wales she made two country visits including to Albury and a night spent at Bungowannah Park near Jindera. Her visit to Victoria began in Wodonga where she officially opened the Pollard Archway over the Causeway. She received an enthusiastic welcome as she approached the Archway accompanied by a motorcycle escort. As Princess Alexander stepped forward to take the scissors from a red plush case, her Lady-in-Waiting, Lady Moyra Hamilton, tugged at the Princess' sleeve, whispered, and gave her a coin. The Princess handed the coin (a halfpenny) to the Wodonga Shire President, Cr J. S. Hore, saying: "I must give you this, otherwise it might be unlucky." The halfpenny "gift" stems from an old English superstition that a "sharp" gift such as a knife or scissors must be dulled with copper or else a friendship will be lost. After cutting the ribbon and declaring the Pollard Arch, named in honour of Councillor Charles Pollard M.B.E., she was presented with a bouquet by 10-year-old Leslie McLeod. Princess Alexandra, led by a pipe band was driven along the Hume Highway and High Street which were lined by thousands of people including school children. After a short trip along High Street and Elgin Street to the Railway Station she departed from protocol to speak to the many children who had crossed the barricade. Princess Alexandra then boarded the Royal Train for her journey to Melbourne.This item is significant because it represents the visit to Wodonga of Princess Alexandra in 1959.A small purple flag with gold lettering and a symbol of the Pollard Arch in Wodonga. It is triangular in shape and attached to a thin wooden stick.Royal Tour Princess Alexandra Wodonga September 1959princess alexandra, royal visit 1959 wodonga

Les Stone was the last Shire President of Wodonga and first Mayor of the Rural City of Wodonga. Born in Collingwood, Victoria on 24th August 1919, he was the first of his family to obtain a post-secondary education. He became a Christian Brother but left the ministry after 10 years and became a trained primary school teacher. Les held various teaching appointments in and around country Victoria and Wodonga, the last as Principal of Wodonga West Primary School. It was in Wodonga that Les and his wife Pam settled with their family. Their contribution to the Wodonga community and local government was outstanding. Les established a strong network in the local migrant community, helping many new arrivals at Bonegilla Migrant Reception Centre with language issues and settling them into their new environment. He worked in support of all underprivileged people in the community. In 1967 Les was elected as a Councillor for the West Riding of Wodonga Council. The following year he was elected Deputy Shire President. He was the last Shire President of Wodonga and in 1971 became the inaugural Mayor of the Rural City of Wodonga. The City of Wodonga was proclaimed on 14th March 1973 and Les was re-elected as Mayor. He chose to serve one full term as Mayor having previously served two terms as Shire President. Les Stone passed away at the Mercy Hospital Albury on 28th December 1974 at 54 years of age. He left behind an enduring legacy which included the proactive encouragement of industry to Wodonga. He also championed the selection of Wodonga as a Growth Centre. A champion and defender of local government, Les served as Chairman of the North East Region of Municipalities which comprised 13 Councils including Wodonga and Wangaratta. He also played a critical role on the Albury Wodonga Development Corporation for five years in the early period of the Whitlam decentralization scheme. Les Stone’s life of giving wasn’t just about local government and teaching. He was an old-fashioned community activist who gave far more than he took from the community. Les worked tirelessly for numerous organizations including the Royal Children’s Hospital, Royal Melbourne Hospital (he was made a Life Governor of both), the Wodonga Good Neighbour Council, and Knights of the Southern Cross, Rotary, the St. Vincent de Paul Society and St. Augustine’s Parish Council. However it is in local government that he remains best remembered. He was an active and vocal councillor and gave over 16 years of service to the people of Wodonga - his election and re-election was never once opposed. Les Stone was interned in the Lawn Cemetery in Wodonga. He was aged 54 years. The naming and dedication of the Les Stone Park in West Wodonga is an important acknowledgement of Les Stone’s life. The inscription reads: '’Leslie Edwin Stone JP was the first Mayor of Wodonga from 1972 to 1974 and a former Shire President (1972). A school teacher and principal by profession Les had a long history of involvement with the migrant community and Catholic Church. He was an acknowledged champion of decentralisation’’. These photos are significant because they document the service of an important civic leader in Wodonga.A collection of coloured images related to Les Stone, Mayor of Wodongales stone, wodonga civic leaders, wodonga council

W. Thorne architect of Albury designed the library building and the plan was approved in June 1915 The building contractor was J. W. Cochrane of Albury. The land was purchased from Mr. Walter Huon. On the 28th July 1915 the Shire President, Councillor Beardmore, laid the foundation stone for the building that would become the Wodonga Public Library. Almost 12 months later, on the 8th March 1916, the library was officially opened. It was the pride of Wodonga. The Shire Council closed their doors for a brief period so that all staff could attend the opening and the teachers and children of the local schools also attended. Councillor Beardmore declared that “it was an asset that would return a profit- not in pounds and shillings and pence but in the development and furnishing of the minds and lives of our young people”. It was known as the Beardmore Library. The Wodonga Athenaeum, in an out of the way location, had closed in 1914 after continuing reports of a lack of funds and the proceeds of the sale of the building went towards the building of the new library. In 1915 the library building committee started to put together a building fund for a new library. The library, situated at 78 High Street, was funded almost exclusively by the public. The books from the Athenaeum were presented to the library committee at the opening in 1916. The new library was both a place for education and recreation, a communal space to socialise, which also boasted a billiards room downstairs. In March 1970 construction of a new Civic Centre which included a library began in Wodonga. With its completion the following year, the original library was closed down. The building was vacant for some time and deteriorated badly. It was later purchased by Peter Middleton, who extensively restored the building. These images have local significance as they document an important building in Wodonga.2 photos - one black and white and one in colour of the same brick building. The first photo is of the building when it served as the Wodonga Public Library. The colour photo was taken approximately 60 years later.Photo 1 - In Brickwork above the door: PUBLIC LIBRARY Photo 2 - Above door: MIDDLETONS CARPETSwodonga public library, wodonga buildings

The Pollard Archway was named for Charles Pollard, who was the son of an early settler at Bonegilla. Charles Pollard was awarded the MBE for his involvement in community service, he was Secretary of the Murray Valley Shows Association, Shire President in 1926-27, 1945-46 and 1946-47. He was Foundation President of the Wodonga Show Society, and North-Eastern representative of the Dairymen’s Association of Victoria. The arch is 29 metres wide and 15 metres high and consists of two boomerangs coming together to form an archway. Originally spanning across a single carriageway of the Lincoln Causeway, the arch was opened by Princess Alexandra of Kent in 1959 and was built for £1230. When the Country Roads Board said the causeway would have to be duplicated in 1973, a new home was required for the arch. The arch was moved in 1975 to allow for widening of the Lincoln Causeway and spent some time in storage. It was re- erected in Hamilton Smith Drive in 1982 after restoration by the Rotary Club of Belvoir-Wodonga. At the request of the Wodonga Show Society, the arch was moved to the entrance of the showgrounds in 1982. After development of the precinct in 2015, the Pollard Arch was erected on Hamilton Smith Drive Wodonga.These images represent the construction and then subsequent of structure acknowledging the contribution of Councillor Pollard to the community of Wodonga.A series of black and white images documenting the construction and opening of the Pollard arch on the Lincoln Causeway in Wodonga in 1959. A coloured photo from 1965 is also included.wodonga pioneers, pollard family, pollard archway

Wodonga Shire was created in 1876 when the colonial government agreed to ratepayers' petitions to have their part of the local government district severed from the Yackandandah Shire to form a new municipality. In March 1973 Wodonga was declared as the first Rural City in Australia. This was officially proclaimed by the Governor of Victoria, Sir Rohan Delacombe at an open-air ceremony in Hovell Street following a procession along High Street led by the Victorian Police Band. The first meeting of the held in the open air immediately after the proclamation. In 1994, the Jeff Kennett government restructured local government in Victoria. His reforms dissolved 210 councils and sacked 1600 elected councillors. Commissioners were appointed in their place. Wodonga’s Commissioners were Mel Reid, Des Kelly and Michael Hanson. Reforms introduced created 78 new councils through amalgamations. Democratically elected councillors returned to Wodonga in 1997, with Graham Crapp as Mayor.This item documents the leaders of local government in Wodonga since its inception in 1876 until Local Government reform in 1994.A photo collage representing Shire Presidents and Mayors of Wodonga, including a typed list of names and dates. All Shire Presidents and Mayors of Wodonga from 1876 – 1994 J. Woodland 1876-7, J. Bambrick 1877-78, G. Street 1878-79, W. L. Ferrier 1879-80, T. Reidy 1880-81, J. Bambrick 1881-82, A. Schlink 1882-83, T. Reidy 1883-84, N. P. Newnan 1884-86, J. Bambrick 1886-87, H. Harkin 1887-88, T. Johnston 1888-89, W.C. McFarlane 1889-91, P. Adams 1891-92, J. G. Shields 1892-93, H. Harkin 1893-94, W.C. McFarlane 1894-95, N. P. Newnan 1895-96, J. Bassett 1896-97, R. Morrison 1897-98, G. S. Manns 1898-99, H. Smith 1899-1900, H. Beardmore 1900-1901, G. Leighton 1901-02, J. H. McGeoch 1902-03, H. Beardmore 1903-1904, J. Whan 1904-05, A.E. Müller 1905-06, A. L. Wright 1906-07, J. H. McGeoch 1907-08, H. Beardmore 1908-1910, G. Leighton 1910-11, H. Beardmore 1911-1912, J. H. McGeoch 1912-13, G. Leighton 1913-14, H. Beardmore 1914-1917, S. T. Parker 1917-19, W. Twomey 1919-21, T. Ryan 1921-23, W. Twomey 1923-25, T. Ryan 1925-26, C. F. Pollard 1926-27, W. Twomey 1927-28, C. S. Street 1928-29, K. D. Watson 1929-30, M. Martin 1930-31, R, Richardson 1933-36, T. Ryan 1936-38, M. Martin 1938-39, R, Richardson 1939-41, J. S. Hore 1941-43, K. D. Watson 1943-45, C. F. Pollard 1945-47, C.C. Sheather 1947-48, T. E. Snowdon 1948-49, J. S. Hore 1949-50, G.A.W. Boyes 1950-52, D. J. Schubert 1952-54, V. R. Peard 1954-55, M. E. Morrison 1955-56, M. E. Morrison 1956-57, J. S. Hore 1957-60, D.J. Schubert 1960-61, A.B.S. Collins 1961-62, A. G. Richardson 1962-63, J. S. Hore 1963-65, J. A. Terrill 1965-67, H. W Draper 1967-68, J.A. Terrill 1968-71, *L.E. Stone 1971-74, K.T. Riley 1974-76, H. Draper 1976-77, Rex. Chamberlain 1977-80, H. W. Draper 1980-82, R. J. Macaulay 1982-84, L.O. Boyes 1984-85, **Pamela Stone 1985-86, M. McEachern 1986-87, R.J Macaulay 1987-88, I. Deegan 1988-89, Valentina Gillard 1989-90, R. J. Macaulay 1990-91, L. C. Boyes 1991-92, T. Corcoran 1992-94 *Last Shire President & first Mayor of the City ** First woman Mayor, Widow of L.B. Stonewodonga council, wodonga shire council, civic leaders