Prior to 1929 Yarrambat was known as Tanck's Corner or Reynold's Corner after Frederick Tanck who owned land north of Ironbark Road at the corner of Yan Yean Road, and Thomas Ryenolds who owned the property opposite. Tanck's Corner was at the centre of gold bearing country. Gold was mined here until 1984 when the last operating mine, the Golden King mine in North Oatlands Road closed. It was owned by the Clayton family and in the 1960s was the only private family gold mine in Victoria. Larger mines had their own batteries and stampers to process the ore. Covered under Heritage Overlay, Nillumbik Planning Scheme. Published: Nillumbik Now and Then /​ Marguerite Marshall 2008; photographs Alan King with Marguerite Marshall.; p23

This collection of almost 130 photos about places and people within the Shire of Nillumbik, an urban and rural municipality in Melbourne's north, contributes to an understanding of the history of the Shire. Published in 2008 immediately prior to the Black Saturday bushfires of February 7, 2009, it documents sites that were impacted, and in some cases destroyed by the fires. It includes photographs taken especially for the publication, creating a unique time capsule representing the Shire in the early 21st century. It remains the most recent comprehenesive publication devoted to the Shire's history connecting local residents to the past.

nillumbik now and then (marshall-king) collection, battery, clayton family, gold mining, golden king mine, ore crusher, tancks corner. reynolds corner, yarrambat

Hawthorn hedges are Important reminders of Kangaroo Ground's Scottish heritage. Covered under Heritage Overlay, Nillumbik Planning Scheme. Published: Nillumbik Now and Then /​ Marguerite Marshall 2008; photographs Alan King with Marguerite Marshall.; p21

This collection of almost 130 photos about places and people within the Shire of Nillumbik, an urban and rural municipality in Melbourne's north, contributes to an understanding of the history of the Shire. Published in 2008 immediately prior to the Black Saturday bushfires of February 7, 2009, it documents sites that were impacted, and in some cases destroyed by the fires. It includes photographs taken especially for the publication, creating a unique time capsule representing the Shire in the early 21st century. It remains the most recent comprehenesive publication devoted to the Shire's history connecting local residents to the past.

nillumbik now and then (marshall-king) collection, eltham-yarra glen road, hawthorn hedgerow, kangaroo ground

The barn of former convict Thomas Sweeney at Culla Hill remains almost in its original condition. Published: Nillumbik Now and Then /​ Marguerite Marshall 2008; photographs Alan King with Marguerite Marshall.; p19

This collection of almost 130 photos about places and people within the Shire of Nillumbik, an urban and rural municipality in Melbourne's north, contributes to an understanding of the history of the Shire. Published in 2008 immediately prior to the Black Saturday bushfires of February 7, 2009, it documents sites that were impacted, and in some cases destroyed by the fires. It includes photographs taken especially for the publication, creating a unique time capsule representing the Shire in the early 21st century. It remains the most recent comprehenesive publication devoted to the Shire's history connecting local residents to the past.

nillumbik now and then (marshall-king) collection, culla hill, eltham, sweeney's cottage, sweeneys lane

Part of the original cottage named Culla Hill built by Thomas Sweeney (a former convict) remains as a small section of today’s house. Covered under Heritage Overlay, Nillumbik Planning Scheme National Estate National Trust of Australia (Victoria) Local Sifgnificance Published: Nillumbik Now and Then /​ Marguerite Marshall 2008; photographs Alan King with Marguerite Marshall.; p19

This collection of almost 130 photos about places and people within the Shire of Nillumbik, an urban and rural municipality in Melbourne's north, contributes to an understanding of the history of the Shire. Published in 2008 immediately prior to the Black Saturday bushfires of February 7, 2009, it documents sites that were impacted, and in some cases destroyed by the fires. It includes photographs taken especially for the publication, creating a unique time capsule representing the Shire in the early 21st century. It remains the most recent comprehenesive publication devoted to the Shire's history connecting local residents to the past.

nillumbik now and then (marshall-king) collection, culla hill, eltham, sweeney's cottage, sweeneys lane, thomas sweeney

Allwood - built in 1894 by Henry Hurst’s relatives, stands near the site of his house, which was demolisherd in the 1940s. Until 1924 Hurstbridge was known as Allwood. The building, one of the district's oldest is situated back from the corner of Arthurs Creek Road and Main Road. Covered under Heritage Overlay, Nillumbik Planning Scheme Published: Nillumbik Now and Then /​ Marguerite Marshall 2008; photographs Alan King with Marguerite Marshall.; p17

This collection of almost 130 photos about places and people within the Shire of Nillumbik, an urban and rural municipality in Melbourne's north, contributes to an understanding of the history of the Shire. Published in 2008 immediately prior to the Black Saturday bushfires of February 7, 2009, it documents sites that were impacted, and in some cases destroyed by the fires. It includes photographs taken especially for the publication, creating a unique time capsule representing the Shire in the early 21st century. It remains the most recent comprehenesive publication devoted to the Shire's history connecting local residents to the past.

nillumbik now and then (marshall-king) collection, hurstbridge, henry hurst, allwood house

Published: Nillumbik Now and Then /​ Marguerite Marshall 2008; photographs Alan King with Marguerite Marshall.; p15

This collection of almost 130 photos about places and people within the Shire of Nillumbik, an urban and rural municipality in Melbourne's north, contributes to an understanding of the history of the Shire. Published in 2008 immediately prior to the Black Saturday bushfires of February 7, 2009, it documents sites that were impacted, and in some cases destroyed by the fires. It includes photographs taken especially for the publication, creating a unique time capsule representing the Shire in the early 21st century. It remains the most recent comprehenesive publication devoted to the Shire's history connecting local residents to the past.

nillumbik now and then (marshall-king) collection, hurst family cemetery, hurstbridge, gravestones, henry hurst

Covered under Heritage Overlay, Nillumbik Planning Scheme Published: Nillumbik Now and Then /​ Marguerite Marshall 2008; photographs Alan King with Marguerite Marshall.; p15

This collection of almost 130 photos about places and people within the Shire of Nillumbik, an urban and rural municipality in Melbourne's north, contributes to an understanding of the history of the Shire. Published in 2008 immediately prior to the Black Saturday bushfires of February 7, 2009, it documents sites that were impacted, and in some cases destroyed by the fires. It includes photographs taken especially for the publication, creating a unique time capsule representing the Shire in the early 21st century. It remains the most recent comprehenesive publication devoted to the Shire's history connecting local residents to the past.

nillumbik now and then (marshall-king) collection, hurst family cemetery, hurstbridge

The Post Office was originally The Evelyn Observer newspaper office. Covered under Heritage Overlay, Nillumbik Planning Scheme. Published: Nillumbik Now and Then /​ Marguerite Marshall 2008; photographs Alan King with Marguerite Marshall.; p13

This collection of almost 130 photos about places and people within the Shire of Nillumbik, an urban and rural municipality in Melbourne's north, contributes to an understanding of the history of the Shire. Published in 2008 immediately prior to the Black Saturday bushfires of February 7, 2009, it documents sites that were impacted, and in some cases destroyed by the fires. It includes photographs taken especially for the publication, creating a unique time capsule representing the Shire in the early 21st century. It remains the most recent comprehenesive publication devoted to the Shire's history connecting local residents to the past.

nillumbik now and then (marshall-king) collection, hurstbridge, post office, post office cafe

Published: Nillumbik Now and Then /​ Marguerite Marshall 2008; photographs Alan King with Marguerite Marshall.; p7

This collection of almost 130 photos about places and people within the Shire of Nillumbik, an urban and rural municipality in Melbourne's north, contributes to an understanding of the history of the Shire. Published in 2008 immediately prior to the Black Saturday bushfires of February 7, 2009, it documents sites that were impacted, and in some cases destroyed by the fires. It includes photographs taken especially for the publication, creating a unique time capsule representing the Shire in the early 21st century. It remains the most recent comprehenesive publication devoted to the Shire's history connecting local residents to the past.

nillumbik now and then (marshall-king) collection, diamond creek, diamond creek bridge, main hurstbridge road

Was this John Batman's tree? Situated beside the Plenty River, Trail Greensborough. National Trust of Australia (Victoria) - Regional significance Published: Nillumbik Now and Then /​ Marguerite Marshall 2008; photographs Alan King with Marguerite Marshall.; p7

This collection of almost 130 photos about places and people within the Shire of Nillumbik, an urban and rural municipality in Melbourne's north, contributes to an understanding of the history of the Shire. Published in 2008 immediately prior to the Black Saturday bushfires of February 7, 2009, it documents sites that were impacted, and in some cases destroyed by the fires. It includes photographs taken especially for the publication, creating a unique time capsule representing the Shire in the early 21st century. It remains the most recent comprehenesive publication devoted to the Shire's history connecting local residents to the past.

nillumbik now and then (marshall-king) collection, greensborough, john batman tree, plenty river trail

Published: Nillumbik Now and Then /​ Marguerite Marshall 2008; photographs Alan King with Marguerite Marshall.; p3

This collection of almost 130 photos about places and people within the Shire of Nillumbik, an urban and rural municipality in Melbourne's north, contributes to an understanding of the history of the Shire. Published in 2008 immediately prior to the Black Saturday bushfires of February 7, 2009, it documents sites that were impacted, and in some cases destroyed by the fires. It includes photographs taken especially for the publication, creating a unique time capsule representing the Shire in the early 21st century. It remains the most recent comprehenesive publication devoted to the Shire's history connecting local residents to the past.

nillumbik now and then (marshall-king) collection, gawa wurundjeri aboriginal resource trail, manna gums

Covered under Heritage Overlay, Nillumbik Planning Scheme Published: Nillumbik Now and Then /​ Marguerite Marshall 2008; photographs Alan King with Marguerite Marshall.; Cover

This collection of almost 130 photos about places and people within the Shire of Nillumbik, an urban and rural municipality in Melbourne's north, contributes to an understanding of the history of the Shire. Published in 2008 immediately prior to the Black Saturday bushfires of February 7, 2009, it documents sites that were impacted, and in some cases destroyed by the fires. It includes photographs taken especially for the publication, creating a unique time capsule representing the Shire in the early 21st century. It remains the most recent comprehenesive publication devoted to the Shire's history connecting local residents to the past.

nillumbik now and then (marshall-king) collection, bend of islands, neil douglas house

1. Letter: Russell Yeoman, EDHS to Geoff Edmonds, Nillumbik Shire Council, 10 January 2003 re naming of the roads surrounding the former Eltham Shire Office site.

eltham, eltham district historical society, geoff edmonds, library place, nillumbik shire council, russell yeoman, shillinglaw trees

1. Dreams to be reality, The Valley Voice, 15 August 1979, p2 - announcement of proposed town square of 1800 square metres of shop area and open courtyard to be sited in the carpark between Arthur Street and Pryor street. The plans also included tree-lined walkways from both Arthur Street and a pededstrian footbridge across Main Road leading to aregular open-air market and tavern. Shop owners facing Main Road were to be encouraged to turn their businesses towards the square. On reverse side - 'General' Marshall and his troops; Valley votes in five new faces, The Valley Voice, 15 August 1979, p1 - picture showing newly elected Cr Robert Marshall 2. Square plan on display, Diamond Valley News, Tuesday, June 23, 1981, p1 - Council's prefered proposal on display to the public. On same page a story about the son of Cr Bob Manuell being attacked on the train from the city. On reverse side - Helping people - here and abroad by Marguerite Marshall, Diamond Valley News, Tuesday, June 23, 1981, p2 - about Keith Ryall of Zig Zag Road, the Apex international councillor for Australia 3. Plan: Eltham Town Centre property Acquisition, Shire of Eltham March 1994

businesses, arthur street, bible street, commercial place, dudley street, eltham, franklins supermarket, luck street, main road, map, mcewans, pryor street, safeway supermarket, apex club, bronwyn ryall, keith ryall, zig zag road, cr bob manuell, cr robert allen, det sgt noel murphy, eltham chamber of commerce, eltham police, eltham shire council, eltham town square, lorraine manuell, pauline toner mp, robert manuell, rodney roscholler, shire planner, vicrail, elections, h&j white general store, hurstbridge, leslie bowker, main street, mrs marshall, pam lawson, robert marshall, rosemary tovey, central park, comfort station, eltham little theatre, montmorency, public toilets, rotex cinema, were street

1. Eltham Town Mall Shopping, Diamond Valley Leader, October 26, 2005 [ On reverse - "Red alert for green area by Natalie Birch and Shane Woodrow about a report compiled by Environment Victoria, Melbourne's Threatened Habitats Under Threat: Development Pressures and Conservation Solutions which places the 'Nillumbik Foothills' number seven on list of most endangered by urban sprawl] 2. Advertisement: Huge Bikle Sale, Paul's Cycles, Diamond Valley Leader, February 7, 2007

eltham, businesses, eltham town mall, paul's cycles, shops, brushtailed phascogale, click here to add keywords, cr greg johnson, eltham copper butterfly, environment victoria, environmental significance overlay, green wedges coalition, nillumbik shire council, powerful owl, significant landscape overlay, victorian national parks association, aroma's cafe and florist, arthur street, barringtons hair boutique, bowz hairdressing, eltham dress up box, going together, kids of eltham, leisure footwear, little angels, national australia bank, research computers, shoppe 8 fashions, split images, st vincent de paul, travel bound, ward sagar bookshop

One of a series of sketches commissioned by Neville Emerson of Neville Emerson Real Estate, originally for use as christmas cards. EDHS does not hold a Christmas card of this image which was also used on the Wiregrass Gallery calendar for 1982. Whilst titled Main Road, Eltham, the house featured is that of Matcham Skipper which is raised on stilits due to the propensity of the Diamond Creek to flood. The actual address for the house is Dalton Street.

Illustration from 1982 calendar

art, artist, bill caldwell, fay bridge collection, neville emerson real estate, sketches, wiregrass gallery calendar, matcham skipper, dalton street

Dr Gary Presland advised the following in October 2020: "In 1959 my parents bought a house in Church Street, Panton Hill. For about three and a half years previously, they had farmed a property 15 km south of Echuca, before moving, briefly to Melbourne. After moving to Panton Hill, I was enrolled at Eltham HS, in Form 2 (Year 8). I completed that year, and in 1960 was in Form 3A (at which time the photograph was taken). To reach the school, I caught a bus each day, from Panton Hill. Early in 1960, my parents decided to separate. My mother left with the youngest two of my three siblings, leaving me and a younger brother with our father in Panton Hill. My brother was in Year 7 at the High School. After a few months, my father and I had a falling out and my brother and I left home to join our mother in South Melbourne. For the remainder of the 1960 school year we travelled each day by train from Melbourne to Eltham. In 1961 I was enrolled at Melbourne Boys High School, which was the nearest secondary school to where I was then living."

Written in pencil on back: "Gary Presland - 4th from left, back row Eltham HS, 1960" Also stamped in purple ink on back "Classic Photos"

1960, class photo, eltham high school, gary presland

1. Photo reprint of Auction sale brochure, 10 July 1993 2. A4 photo reprint of four photos (3 x B&W of the house when purchased by Pam Robinson and 1 x clr of Pat Begg at work on extension) 3. A4 photo reprint of four clr photos of Pat Begg at work on extension Items 1-3 donated by Pam Robinson August 2021 via Wendy Wilson in support for a Newsletter article "Eltham Insights" by Pam Robinson published in the EDHS newsletter No 260, October 2021. Also Newsletter No. 265 August 2022 "Harcourt Hill" by Carlotta Quinlan features Rocknall and one of Pam Robison's photos.

eltham, 25 diamond street, auction sale, j.m. harcourt design, neville emerson real estate, pam robinson, pat begg, rocknall

Newspaper article: Seats at new library a win for Bob; Fiona Kaegi, Diamond Valley News, May 24, 1995, p6 - article on the provision of seats between carpark and library entrance which Bob Bruce had lobbied the former Eltham Shire Council to install supported by former Eltham Shire Councillor Jim Connor and the former Eltham Shire Council Disability Advisory Committee

eltham, businesses, bob bruce, disability advisory committee, eltham library, eltham shire council, jim connor, panther place

Pise or Adobe Brick Cottage for Mr D. Sawer in Peter St., Eltham Design and drawings by J.M. Harcourt, Clay Nuneham, Eltham. The cottage at present day 22 Peter Street was built circa 1946. Also Drawing of planned carport and future extension for 22 Peter Street, Eltham

22 peter street, building plans, clay nuneham, d. sawer, eltham, j.m. harcourt design, adobe house, j.m. harcourt designc.1946, pise house

1. Book: N.T.S.R.U., 1941-1943 : Northern Territory Special Reconnaissance Unit / text and photographs from the report of Sqn Leader, Donald Thomson [Foreward: Michael Christie, Steve Fox, Nawunggurr, Yunupingu] Summary Work of the Yolngu reconnaissance patrol in the Northern Territory during Second World War as described in the report by Donald Thomson who trained and led them; list of names of members of the Unit; mention of Caledon Bay killings. Title N.T.S.R.U. : 1941 - 1943 / [text and photographs from the report of SQN Leader Donald Thomson : Michael Christie, Steve Fox, Nawunggurr, Yunupingu]. Author Thomson, Donald F. (Donald Fergusson), 1901-1970. Other Authors Christie, Michael. Fox, Steve. Yunupingu, Charles Nawunggurr. Published [Nhulunbuy]:Yirrkala Literature Production Centre , 1992. Carrier Types volume Physical Description 31 p.; ill., map, ports. Notes Cover subtitle; Northern Territory Special Reconnaissance Unit; Foreword in Yolngu text, parallel English translation. Language English Identifiers ISBN 0864093055

Folder of information on Donald Thomson

donald thomson

Item on Eltham Festival being postponed to early 2023 due to Alistair Knox Park being waterlogged from substantial rainfalls

Newsprint

2022, eltham festival, rotary eltham town festival

Newspaper advertisement, Eltham Vasectomy Centre, Diamond Valley News, May 24, 1995

main road, eltham, businesses, eltham vasectomy centre

Eltham resident for more than 42 years, consultant in access and aged care issues, former Eltham Shire Councillor (1994), former member of Nillumbik Planning Special Committee (1996), community advocate, bike rider and President of Eltham District Historical Society from 2010 to present (2023) 1. How to Vote pamphlet: Lets make Eltham an even better place, Jim Connor for Eltham Council Central Riding - stood as an independent candidate against Nick McGowan 2. Newspaper article: Eltham's plans draw support; publication unknown (1994) - continuation of article about proposed realignment of Council boundaries and includes photo showing Cr Connor 3. Business Card: Jim Connor and associates, Consultant in Access and Aged Care Issues 4. Report: Meeting the challenge - we're well on the way! Nillumbik Budget 2005-2006 report card (8 page A4 report) featuring a photo of Nillumbik councillors and community members reviewing aerial photo of Eltham (includes Mayor Cr Greg Johnson, Cr Michael Young, Jim Connor, Russell Yeoman and two others) 5. Newspaper clipping, Local Knowledge, Diamond Valley Leader, November 2, 2011, p2 - interview with Jim Connor about living in the Diamond Valley 6. Consideration of an Honorary Life Membership for Jim Connor, Eltham District Historical Society 7. A Celebration of Community Historians at the RHSV's AGM, RHSV News, June 2019, p4 - presentation of RHSV Merit Award by RHSV President Richard Broome to Jim Connor 8. Newspaper article: Tree change a positive move, Why I love My Suburb, Diamond Valley Leader, July 24, 2019, p4 - interview with Jim Connor 9. Photo: B&W A4 print of Jim Connor with his e-bike

Folder of information on Jim Connor

eltham district historical society, eltham shire council, jim connor, nillumbik shire council, royal historical society of victoria, council elections

Nillumbik Commissioners used 'reserve power's to permit a controversial Shell service station and Hungry Jack's restaurant development at the former Eltham Shire Office site at 895 Main Road. More than 200 people attended the Council meeting in the public gallery and protested at the decision. 32 personal submissions were made to Council's Planning Special Committee meeting whose members vioted 3-2 against the development. The Committee consisted of the three Nillumbik Commissioners and three community members (Jim Connor, Bronwyn South and Janet Mattiske). Chief Commissioner Don Cordell, a former Shell employee excused himself from voting and the three communbity memebrs voted against the submission. The other two commissioners, Vin Heffernan and Kevin Abbott voted against it. They then immediately closed the meeting and opened a Council meeting lasting just seconds to use special reserve powers to overturn the decision. Subsequent to this the Commissioner run Council held a special meeting on Wednesday, October 23, 1996 where Commissioners Kevin Abbott and Vin Heffernan thanked all three community members of the Planning Special Committee and advised that their powers had been revoked. The article includes a joint statement from all three sacked members in which they state they have been able to bring a community perspective to the planning applications placed befopre the committee which has resulted in modifications to planning decisions. The members stated that "unfortunately, despite our best efforts to express considered apolitical opinions, it appears the Commissioners believe that any dissenting comment is politically motivated, and should therefore be disregarded." "We feel sad that this situation exists even though we have done everything possible tio represent the views of our community, whilst maintaining the integrity of the planning process."

The demolition of the former Shire of Eltham offices and proposed sale and development driven by the Commissioners for Nillumbik Shire Council brought the community together in substantial protest at the infrigement of ratepayers democratic say in local government and ciommunity assets combined with protests about inappropraite development of Eltham's Gateway. This issue led to the formation of the Eltham Community Action Group which still operates strongly today (2023) on behalf of the community to ensure appropriate development within the community.

895 main road, commissioners, dallas price homes, development application, eltham hub, hungry jacks, nillumbik shire council, re-zoning, shell service station, town planning, eltham gateway, eltham gateway action group, eltham shire offices, shillinglaw farm, jim connor collection, dallas howgate, nillumbik planning special committee, jim connor, bronwyn south, janet mattiske, don cordell, vin heffernan, kevin abbott

Nillumbik Commissioners used 'reserve power's to permit a controversial Shell service station and Hungry Jack's restaurant development at the former Eltham Shire Office site at 895 Main Road. More than 200 people attended the Council meeting in the public gallery and protested at the decision. 32 personal submissions were made to Council's Planning Special Committee meeting whose members vioted 3-2 against the development. The Committee consisted of the three Nillumbik Commissioners and three community members (Jim Connor, Bronwyn South and Janet Mattiske). Chief Commissioner Don Cordell, a former Shell employee excused himself from voting and the three communbity memebrs voted against the submission. The other two commissioners, Vin Heffernan and Kevin Abbott voted against it. They then immediately closed the meeting and opened a Council meeting lasting just seconds to use special reserve powers to overturn the decision. Subsequent to this the Commissioner run Council held a special meeting on Wednesday, October 23, 1996 where Commissioners Kevin Abbott and Vin Heffernan thanked all three community members of the Planning Special Committee and advised that their powers had been revoked. The article includes a joint statement from all three sacked members in which they state they have been able to bring a community perspective to the planning applications placed befopre the committee which has resulted in modifications to planning decisions. The members stated that "unfortunately, despite our best efforts to express considered apolitical opinions, it appears the Commissioners believe that any dissenting comment is politically motivated, and should therefore be disregarded." "We feel sad that this situation exists even though we have done everything possible tio represent the views of our community, whilst maintaining the integrity of the planning process."

The demolition of the former Shire of Eltham offices and proposed sale and development driven by the Commissioners for Nillumbik Shire Council brought the community together in substantial protest at the infrigement of ratepayers democratic say in local government and ciommunity assets combined with protests about inappropraite development of Eltham's Gateway. This issue led to the formation of the Eltham Community Action Group which still operates strongly today (2023) on behalf of the community to ensure appropriate development within the community.

895 main road, commissioners, dallas price homes, development application, eltham hub, hungry jacks, nillumbik shire council, re-zoning, shell service station, town planning, eltham gateway, eltham gateway action group, eltham shire offices, shillinglaw farm, jim connor collection, dallas howgate, nillumbik planning special committee, jim connor, bronwyn south, janet mattiske, don cordell, vin heffernan, kevin abbott

Nillumbik Commissioners used 'reserve power's to permit a controversial Shell service station and Hungry Jackls restaurant development at the former Eltham Shire Office site at 895 Main Road. More than 200 people attended the Council meeting in the public gallery and protested at the decision. 32 personal submissions were made to Council's Planning Special Committee meeting whose members vioted 3-2 against the development. The Committee consisted of the three Nillumbik Commissioners and three community members (Jim Connor, Bronwyn South and Janet Mattiske). Chief Commissioner Don Cordell, a former Shell employee excused himself from voting and the three communbity memebrs voted against the submission. The other two commissioners, Vin Heffernan and Kevin Abbott voted against it. They then immediately closed the meeting and opened a Council meeting lasting just seconds to use special reserve powers to overturn the decision. Community residents who made submissions included Russell Yeomans speaking on behalf of the Eltham Gateway Action Group and Eltham District Historical Society, Des Ryan on belaf of Eltham Senior Citizens, Angela Newhouse, others on behalf of Our Lady Help of Christians Primary School and Judge Book Village, Tom Munro, Ian Jennings, Margartet Ball a fifth generation descendant of the Shillinglaw family, one of the early settlers of the area and owner of the land that was sold to Council, Frank Burgoyne who said "there will be a lot of creaking and rumbling in the cemetery if this goes through. So many old people who have done so much for Eltham are buried up there and it is up to us to pass on what they left to the younger generation. Eltham is a beautiful spot; why louse it up?" A second article "Anger over reserve power" by Laeta Antonysen provides commentary from the three Planning Special Committee community members, former Eltham Shire Councillor Jim Connor, Bronwyn South and Janet Mattiske about the process that took place and the first time use of the spoecial reserve power to overturn the decision of the committee. Barry Rochford, Nillumbiuk CEO defends the use of the power.

The demolition of the former Shire of Eltham offices and proposed sale and development driven by the Commissioners for Nillumbik Shire Council brought the community together in substantial protest at the infrigement of ratepayers democratic say in local government and ciommunity assets combined with protests about inappropraite development of Eltham's Gateway. This issue led to the formation of the Eltham Community Action Group which still operates strongly today (2023) on behalf of the community to ensure appropriate development within the community.

895 main road, commissioners, dallas price homes, development application, eltham hub, hungry jacks, nillumbik shire council, re-zoning, shell service station, town planning, eltham gateway, eltham gateway action group, eltham shire offices, shillinglaw farm, shillinglaw trees, jim connor collection, dallas howgate, nillumbik planning special committee, jim connor, bronwyn south, janet mattiske, don cordell, vin heffernan, kevin abbott, russell yeomans, eltham district historical society, eltham senior citizens, des ryan, our lady help of christians primary school, judge book village, angela newhouse, tom munro, ian jennings, margaret ball, shillinglaw cottage, frank burgoyne, andrew biasci, barry rochford

Nillumbik Commissioners used 'reserve power's to permit a controversial Shell service station and Hungry Jackls restaurant development at the former Eltham Shire Office site at 895 Main Road. More than 200 people attended the Council meeting in the public gallery and protested at the decision. 32 personal submissions were made to Council's Planning Special Committee meeting whose members vioted 3-2 against the development. The Committee consisted of the three Nillumbik Commissioners and three community members (Jim Connor, Bronwyn South and Janet Mattiske). Chief Commissioner Don Cordell, a former Shell employee excused himself from voting and the three communbity memebrs voted against the submission. The other two commissioners, Vin Heffernan and Kevin Abbott voted against it. They then immediately closed the meeting and opened a Council meeting lasting just seconds to use special reserve powers to overturn the decision.

The demolition of the former Shire of Eltham offices and proposed sale and development driven by the Commissioners for Nillumbik Shire Council brought the community together in substantial protest at the infrigement of ratepayers democratic say in local government and ciommunity assets combined with protests about inappropraite development of Eltham's Gateway. This issue led to the formation of the Eltham Community Action Group which still operates strongly today (2023) on behalf of the community to ensure appropriate development within the community.

895 main road, commissioners, dallas price homes, development application, eltham hub, hungry jacks, nillumbik shire council, re-zoning, shell service station, town planning, eltham gateway, eltham gateway action group, eltham shire offices, shillinglaw farm, shillinglaw trees, jim connor collection, dallas howgate, nillumbik planning special committee, jim connor, bronwyn south, janet mattiske, don cordell, vin heffernan, kevin abbott

Nillumbik Commissioners used 'reserve power's to permit a controversial Shell service station and Hungry Jackls restaurant development at the former Eltham Shire Office site at 895 Main Road. More than 200 people attended the Council meeting in the public gallery and protested at the decision. 32 personal submissions were made to Council's Planning Special Committee meeting whose members vioted 3-2 against the development. The Committee consisted of the three Nillumbik Commissioners and three community members (Jim Connor, Bronwyn South and Janet Mattiske). Chief Commissioner Don Cordell, a former Shell employee excused himself from voting and the three communbity memebrs voted against the submission. The other two commissioners, Vin Heffernan and Kevin Abbott voted against it. They then immediately closed the meeting and opened a Council meeting lasting just seconds to use special reserve powers to overturn the decision.

The demolition of the former Shire of Eltham offices and proposed sale and development driven by the Commissioners for Nillumbik Shire Council brought the community together in substantial protest at the infrigement of ratepayers democratic say in local government and ciommunity assets combined with protests about inappropraite development of Eltham's Gateway. This issue led to the formation of the Eltham Community Action Group which still operates strongly today (2023) on behalf of the community to ensure appropriate development within the community.

895 main road, commissioners, dallas price homes, development application, eltham hub, hungry jacks, nillumbik shire council, re-zoning, shell service station, town planning, eltham gateway, eltham gateway action group, eltham shire offices, shillinglaw farm, shillinglaw trees, jim connor collection, dallas howgate, frank burgoyne, robert marshall, nillumbik planning special committee, jim connor, bronwyn south, janet mattiske, don cordell, vin heffernan, kevin abbott

Produced by Contour Consultants Australia Pty Ltd on behalf of Dallas Price Homes Pty Ltd as part of the planning process for redevelopment of the former Eltham Shire Office site at 895 Main Road. In 1963 the Shire of Eltham purchased the Shillinglaw property of approximately 2 acres in Main Road, Eltham for the widening of Main Road and as a site for new Council offices. This land, which contained the Shillinglaw Cottage (c1878-80), was the remaining section of the Shillinglaw family holding that originally comprised 30 acres, being Lot 90 of Holloway's 1851 subdivision. Eltham Council intended to demolish this cottage, but through extensive community action it was saved, funds were raised, and it was relocated to the current site adjacent to the Eltham Library. The new Eltham Shire Offices opened in 1965 were designed to ensure retention of the three Italian Cypress trees that were located outside the Shillinglaw Cottage. In 1971 the building was extended at the southern end to provide additional space, including for the Eltham Library and Council's Engineering Department. Renovations were undertaken to the offices during 1987. The Victorian State Government commenced to restructure local government in 1994, which resulted in the establishment of the Shire of Nillumbik and the cessation of the Shire of Eltham. This new Nillumbik Shire Council was headed by government appointed commissioners, who decided in 1995 to put the former Eltham Shire offices on the market. Eventually in June 1996 the property was sold for $1.1 million and the building was subsequently demolished. A planning application for the site was then submitted to Nillumbik Shire Council in September 1996 for construction of a 24-hour service station, convenience store, cafe/takeaway food premises, a retail facility and community facility. There were many objections to this proposed development and in controversial circumstances a planning permit was granted by the Nillumbik Shire Council commissioners. After protracted actions involving a planning panel and a planning advisory committee, established by the Minister for Local Government, the proposal was eventually rejected as not satisfying the requirements of the planning scheme. In December 1997 the purchaser withdrew from the contract of sale, just prior to Council announcing a withdrawal from the contract. While there have been a number of possible development proposals considered by subsequent Nillumbik Shire Councils, this site has remained vacant since July 1996. TIMELINE (Prepared by Jim Connor, Eltham District Historical Society- March 2018- Based on press, council and personal records) June 1996 - Eltham Shire offices sold to Dallas Price Homes for $1.1 million. July 1996 - Shire office building demolished against community's wishes. Council claimed building riddled with asbestos. September 1996 - Planning application submitted to Nillumbik Shire Council to construct on the site a 24 hours Shell service station, convenience store, Hungry Jacks café/takeaway food premises, a retail facility and community facility. 213 objections and petition of over 1400 signatures received. Minister for Planning and Local Government orders an independent investigation into valuation and sale. 9 October 1996 - Permit granted by Nillumbik Shire Council commissioners, in controversial circumstances. A Planning Special Committee consisting of 3 commissioners and 3 community representatives considered 32 community objections. One commissioner declared a potential conflict of interest so only 2 commissioners were able to vote. After hearing all objections, the community representatives moved a foreshadowed motion to refuse a permit. The commissioners then closed the meeting, formerly opened a council meeting (for about a minute) and approved the application. October 1996 - Community members appealed planning decision to Administrative Appeals Tribunal. November 1996 -Minister for Planning and Local Government Robert McClelland calls appeal in and directs MT to refer this 'major policy issue' to the Governor in Council. February 1997 - Planning panel (Dimity Reed and Margaret Pitt) established to consider submissions. March 1997 - New council elected with five councillors. April 1997 - Three of the five new councillors vote to fight Commissioner's decision to grant a permit. April 1997 - Planning panel (Dimity Reed and Margaret Pitt) conducts hearings at Nillumbik Shire offices. June 1997 -Planning panel rejected Dallas Price Homes proposal as being 'totally inappropriate' for the site and recommends the site be rezoned for 'public purposes'. July 1997 - Dallas Price Homes threatened to sue Council and individual councillors. October 1997 - Report released of an Advisory Committee (Paul Jerome) established by the Minister for Planning and Local Government. Committee considered Dallas Price Homes proposal and an alternative concept plan proposal by Council for a gallery, workshop, offices and cinema community-based development. Advisory Committee recommended Dallas Price Homes proposal be rejected as not satisfying the requirements of the planning scheme and recommended further testing of the financial viability of Council's proposal. December 1997 - Dallas Price Homes withdrew from the contract of sale, just prior to Council announcing a withdrawal from the contract, which expired on 28th November and was not renewed by either side, after previously being extended twice pending a decision by the Minister. Council had to pay developer $58,000 for demolition costs. February 1998 - Dallas Price Homes application rejected by Planning and Local Government Minister. October 1998 - Nillumbik Councillors suspended and an Administrator appointed (until March 1999).

The demolition of the former Shire of Eltham offices and proposed sale and development driven by the Commissioners for Nillumbik Shire Council brought the community together in substantial protest at the infrigement of ratepayers democratic say in local government and ciommunity assets combined with protests about inappropraite development of Eltham's Gateway. This issue led to the formation of the Eltham Community Action Group which still operates strongly today (2023) on behalf of the community to ensure appropriate development within the community.

895 main road, commissioners, dallas price homes, development application, eltham hub, hungry jacks, nillumbik shire council, re-zoning, shell service station, town planning, eltham gateway, eltham gateway action group, eltham shire offices, shillinglaw cottage, shillinglaw farm, shillinglaw trees, jim connor collection