Historical information

Prior to the election of female Councillors and Mayors in the 1960’s, The Lady Mayoress role was one of the few ways women could officially undertake civic duties. Mayoresses made important contributions to their local communities through their charity work and as ambassadors for their region on a state and federal level. They also undertook some Mayoral duties on occasions when their husband was unavailable. Mayoress Rae was born Ethel Mary and during her time in office she attended functions alongside her husband for Queen Elizabeth and the Duke of Edinburgh during their visit in 1963.

Physical description

Framed, oval photographic studio portrait with flat glass. Hand coloured detail.

Inscriptions & markings

ll, Mrs R A Rae / Mayoress 1962 - 63. lr, Martin Washington / Bendigo

Mounting & framing

plaster, glass

References