Historical information

Dr Michele Matthews has been a local and social historian for nearly three decades since she first used correspondence held by the then Bendigo City Council for her Honours thesis. She is an ardent advocate for the use of local history records to tell Victorian and Australian history from a grassroots perspective. Michele’s MA thesis, ‘A forgotten “Father” of Federation: Sir John Quick 1852‑1911’ (2003), and her PhD thesis, ‘Survivors, schemes, Samaritans and shareholders: the impact of the Great Depression on Bendigo and District 1925‑1935’ (2007), both drew heavily on Bendigo and district records.

This Article highlights the historic and architectural significance of the Favaloro Brothers' mansion, "Fiesole," in Bendigo:

The Favaloro Brothers were known for their successful café, famous for pastries and as a social hub in Bendigo during the 1940s and 50s.Their wealth was invested in local architecture, notably in building "Fiesole" between 1926 and 1930. "Fiesole" is a red brick Edwardian mansion with a tiled roof and surrounded by a tall Cyprus hedge. The house retains almost all original features, including ornate stained glass doors, original carpets, Italian alabaster light shades, and decorative cornices. The main suite features a stained-glass bay window and vintage luxury details. The kitchen and bathrooms are preserved in their original condition, with period tiles and fittings.

Additional features include a billiard room with pressed metal ceilings, a cellar, storage sheds, and a double garage. The house has had three owners, most recently the Meredith family, who raised seven daughters there. Despite its grandeur, the house was always a family home, hosting large gatherings and celebrations. The property is valued for both its historical character and its role as a cherished family residence.

Physical description

Michele Matthews Collection: PHD Research - "Fiesole" Bendigo Weekly article; "A little Italy and a lot of luxury" by Lauren Mitchell Friday April 7, 2006

This item includes the following documents:

8672.23a Colour photo of the house in Barkly Terrace East Bendigo

8672.23b This Article highlights the historic and architectural significance of the Favaloro Brothers' mansion, "Fiesole," in Bendigo