Historical information

'There are also a number of framed portraits, including those of...Dr. John Wilkinson, a doctor who started a practise in Bright in the late 1880's and helped develop the tourist potential of the Mount Buffalo Plateau. " (Pg 84, Historica, 2011)
Dr John .F. Wilkinson was a significant figure in the pioneering of tourism at Mt Buffalo. A Doctor and resident of Bright, he and W.A. Staker were the founder members of the Bright Alpine Club formed in 1887 to promote the natural attractions of the Buffalo plateau. " They form the Alpine Club and charge a membership fee for guiding people up the mountain (led by official guides Bill Weston and Edward Carlisle). this is matched by a grant from the local shire council.... They advertise in the Argus and promote the Australian Alps, Bright district as "The Switzerland of Victoria'. Mt Buffalo, with the railways nearby, is the most accessible snowfield and becomes 'the cradle of skiing in Victoria'." (Pg 179 Historica . 2011)
The initial funds raised by the Alpine club funded the Staker's walking track, the first easily accessible route up the mountain. . They engaged the services of early Victorian photographer Nicholas Caire, whose scenic photographs helped to promote the beauty of the mountain. The efforts of these gentlemen culminated in securing 2.800 acres for the one of the first National Parks in Victoria, 1898.

Significance

Listed in Draft Inventory of significant Items.

Physical description

Framed sepia photograph. Grey mount in wooden frame. Portrait of Dr.J.F Wilkinson. Brass name plaque at base of frame. Hand finished / highlighted in places.

Inscriptions & markings

" DR J.F.WILKINSON"