Historical information

This photograph captures the rotunda at A'Vard Picnic Ground in Emerald (where Avard Road meets Menzies Creek). The A'Vard Park area was previously a mining camp for prospectors on the Menzies Creek in the 1890s, with signs of mining said to be visible near the picnic ground. The area was transformed into a picnic ground in the intervening years, and in 1914 Jim Stuart built this rotunda, allegedly for brass bands. Vandals eventually destroyed the original rotunda, but in 1996-7 a replica was built by John Currie and opened by George A'Vard under the direction of Gus Ryberg, the park curator.

This photograph is said to have been taken by George W. A'Vard (1890-1966) and donated by George A. A'Vard (1914-2007).

Significance

A'Vard Park was a significant gathering and recreation space for the local community in the early 20th century. The community considered this rotunda significant enough to be reconstructed in the 1990s, indicating its importance.

Physical description

This item is a relatively large black and white photograph of a covered rotunda. The rotunda stands in the middle of the frame on open, flat ground with occasional sticks and stones. The background shows trees rising behind a wooden fence. Two men sit under the rotunda, their features obscured by shadow; one is sitting on the wall of the rotunda, while the other leans on it. Both are leaning on the posts supporting the roof.
The reverse features handwritten annotation in both pencil and blue pen, including information and an accession number.

Inscriptions & markings

"Rotunda A'Vard Park Emerald 1913-1914 P294 / Jim Stuart Built / 28 x 17"