Historical information

Like the other neighbourhood houses, the ECH began its life mainly relying on volunteers with just a small amount of government funding until 1986 when the Victorian government began the provision of secure, recurrent funding to neighbourhood houses.

Significance

he Victorian Neighbourhood House movement was born in the early 1970s during the Whitlam era of significant social change. It grew out of local community need, particularly the isolation of women in the community, with a vision to bring people together and enhance the opportunities of people and communities. Another initial emphasis was to provide an informal, non-threatening and nurturing environment that supported individualised learning. The Emerald Community House (ECH) began in 1974 - one of the oldest continuously running incorporated community houses in Victoria. The State Government changed service providers for the ECH in 2025. The previous service providers have donated records of the ECH during its long history including this quilt which showcases the ECH's involvement in local community events.

Physical description

Quilt made by community members under the auspices of the Emerald Community House (ECH) for the 2013 PAVE Festival - a performing and visual arts festival. Quilt depicts Emerald Lake.

Inscriptions & markings

Depicts a simple/stylised picture of Emerald Lake. The bridge over the lake is in the centre with two trees on either side of the bridge and three ducks swimming in the lake.