Historical information
Originated in the United Kingdom in 1822 with a motto "No man Is At All Times Wise" and a maxim of "Justice, Truth and
Philanthropy". A branch of the Royal Antediluvian Order of Buffaloes was formed at Bogong by Grand Lodge Officers from Melbourne and other members. The ceremony was held at Lewis Camp Mess (Kiewa Hydro Electric Scheme) with a world record of 78 new members initiated and a world record of over 100 pounds was raised. Another branch, No. 150 was opened in Mt Beauty. The Bogong and Mt Beauty lodges combined in 1948 and organised a Christmas treat for all children of the State Electricity Commission of Victoria working on the Kiewa Hydro Electric Scheme.
Significance
Historical: The Bogong R.A.O.B. was formed circa Sept. 1946 and the Mt Beauty R.A.O.B. in 1948. It was a popular organisation in Bogong and then in Mt Beauty during the construction of the K.H.E.S. This club shows how important social clubs were in making up part of the community thus making it socially historic as well. It was a voluntary charitable organisation with a complicated ceremonial tradition and enjoyed by its participants.
The donor, Brian William John Bourke was a cook at the pub and other places around the town. He had lived in the area since the 1950s and passed away 2019 and is buried at Tawonga Cemetery.
Physical description
Small brown leather case with attached handle and sliding clips on each side. The corners are reinforced with steel.The hinge appears to be stitched on and is held by an attached leather strap on the right side.
Inside: the lid has a material open gathered pocket holding 4 small books and 4 thin booklets / papers.
The case holds 2 large leather red and gold cuffs, 1 red with gold decoration apron, 1 red ribboned necklace with a personal badge and 1 of the lodge and 2 short ribbons (one green and 1 blue) with badges attached including the Mt Beauty badge on horns.
1 cardboard roll with B W J Bourke / Mt Beauty on the outside and 4 certificates rolled inside. These are dated 1964, 1970, 1974, 1974 .
See also KVHS 0084, KVHS 0945, KVHS 1441
Inscriptions & markings
Brian William John Bourke
