Historical information

Wilfred Clarence Busse was born in Chiltern, Victoria in 1898. His family first arrived in this region during the gold rush era, purchasing a piece of land adjacent to the Murray River.

The spectacular scenery and rich history of the area is said to have inspired Busse in his writing.

He attended Wesley College in his school days, before going on to study law at the University of Melbourne.

After graduating from university, Busse would go on to become a barrister, but he is best known as a writer of fiction, publishing two novels: 'The Blue Beyond: A Romance of the Early Days in South Eastern Australia' and 'The Golden Plague: A Romance in the Early Fifties'.

Busse died in 1960.

This particular object is dated 1895, three years before Busse was born. It can thus be assumed that it was awarded to a relative of his, possibly his father in relation to their land by the Murray River.

Significance

This object is significant as it is associated with Wilfred Clarence Busse, a celebrated author and barrister who grew up in the locality of Chiltern. It is also a medal awarded by the Royal Agricultural Society of Victoria, a society that has held social and industrial significance since it was founded in the nineteenth century.

Physical description

Small, circular medal - made of either bronze or brass metal - depicting an agricultural background behind a female figure in a toga holding a wreath.

Inscriptions & markings

Back side:
The Royal Agricultural Society of Victoria /
Busse & Son /
1895