St Kilda Town Hall Gates from the 'Corry' Mansion

In July 1923 it was reported that the St Kilda City Council had  purchased massive wrought iron double entrance gates which were in use at Corry, Sir Lauchlan Mackinnon's house in Toorak, for erection at the entrance to the town hall grounds. (1)  

Sir Lauchlan Mackinnon, was one of the proprietors of The Argus newspaper. Sir Lauchlan was born in Corry, on the Isle of Skye in 1848 and was educated at private schools and in his youth was designated to succeed his cousin Mr Lauchlan Mackinnon then one of the partners in the firm of Wilson and Mackinnon proprietors of "The Argus." With this object he was given a thorough insight into newspaper management and direction beginning at the beginning. He served for some time in the office of "The Times," later in the great publishing house of W.H. Smith and Co, and then for several years in the office of the "Scotsman," Edinburgh. The experience he gained in these establishments was an admirable preparation for more responsible activities, and he was transferred to Melbourne in 1870. (2)

The Herald, December 4, 1925 https://trove.nla.gov.au/newspaper/article/243899876

In 1881 Sir Lauchlan became the general manager of The Argus. He retired from that role in 1919 and his son, also called Lauchlan, succeeded him as a partner in the firm of Wilson and Mackinnon and as representative of the family interests in the management of the newspapers. (3) After his retirement, Sir Lauchlan, his wife, Emily, and two daughters, Barbara and Nancy, spent the next two years travelling overseas. They returned to Melbourne in April 1921, but this was a short-lived stay as he decided to move to England, where he died in December 1925.  The move to England prompted the sale of Corry, which was on just over six acres in Heyington Place, and it was put up for auction on March 2, 1922. (4)

Corry, Heyington Place, Toorak

The Australasian, February 18, 1922 http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article140228145

It did not sell at auction and was later offered for private sale; it appears to have sold in the July and  then turned over quickly as Corry, one of the finest homes in Toorak, was advertised again in December 1922 along with three three magnificent residential allotments fronting Heyington Place and Kooyong Road, which had been sub-divided from the original block. (5)

It is likely that the gates were removed around this time, you can see them on this MMBW plan from 1905, at the entrance to Corry, outside the Lodge. 

Corry, from the 1905 MMBW plan. Click on image to enlarge.

Melbourne and Metropolitan Board of Works detail plan. 931, City of Prahran, 1905

http://handle.slv.vic.gov.au/10381/121915

In 1923, the St Kilda Council made the decision to remodel the Town Hall and undertake some landscaping works with the installation of the Corry gates part of this work. This was reported in The Argus in the July - 
St Kilda Town Hall. Plans for Remodelling.
Several months ago it was decided by  the St. Kilda Council to remodel parts of the St Kilda Town Hall and provide a portico entrance. A prize of £75 was offered for the best design for a portico, and one of £50 for the best plans for remodelling, other parts of the building. A committee of the Institute of Architects which judged the designs has awarded both prizes to Messrs. Sale and Keage, architects of Little Collins street. The portico design provides for cars drawing up to the town hall door under the portico, a long ramp providing easy approach. The roof is supported by massive circular columns.

Provision is made for widening the main entrance doors to the building. The municipal offices, which are situated on other side of the main door, will be placed it the west corner of the building the engineers offices being immediately over those of the clerical staff. The present municipal offices will be converted into large cloakrooms and a card-room will also be provided. To give easy access to the municipal offices a new door and stairway will be constructed at the north-east end of the building, and a stairway leading up to the engineer's offices will be provided. The plans also provide for the erection of a now lodge room at the south east corner of the building. The existing stairways will be removed and new ones built, to permit of the entrance vestibule being greatly enlarge. A reception room will be built immediately above the vestibule and between the Council chamber and the major's room. 

Three entrance door to the hall proper will replace the existing door. The council has purchased massive wrought iron double entrance gates which were in use at Corry, Sir Lauchlan Mackinnon's house in Toorak, for erection at the entrance to the town hall grounds. Tenders for the alterations to the town hall will be called shortly, but it is doubtful if the work will be commenced before the close of the dancing season. (6)   A year later in May 1924, The Argus could report that the alterations would be finished in two months. (7)

The only photo I can find of the Corry gates.

The Argus, September 5, 1923 http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article1985865

The Corry gates were significant enough that  J.B. Cooper write about them in his history of St Kilda - The Council, at this time, bought the massive wrought iron double entrance gates that had been in use at "Corry," the late Sir Lachlan Mackinnon's house, in Toorak. The gates were made by Bayliss of London, and they are wonderful examples of honest craftsmanship, in the difficult work of making wrought iron gates. Viewed from the City Hall's upper windows, as they stand, facing the intersection of Carlisle and High Streets, their fine iron work has the appearance that delicate lace patterns present when held up to the light. They are probably the finest wrought iron gates to be found in Melbourne. Examined closely they appear to be flawless. Even the keys of the gates are of solid British workmanship, with artistic mouldings, the like of which in key making is not seen today. (8)

Fourteen years later, in August 1938, the St Kilda Council adopted an extensive scheme for beautifying the grounds surrounding St. Kilda town hall. (9) To this end, the Council purchased from the trustees of Balaclava Methodist Church 60 feet of land in Carlisle-street, which is now incorporated in the town hall grounds, and this made the size of the grounds 2¾ acres. (10)

The Argus reported on the planned new works - 

St. Kilda Council adopted on Monday a recommendation of its parks and gardens committee that a report prepared by Mr. Linaker, of the Public Works Department, be received, and an accompanying plan in relation to the planting and removal of trees at and around the town hall and in other parts of the municipality, be adopted. The report stated that aspects which had been given particular consideration were convenience, trees suitable for planting and varieties to thrive in the district, modernness, background and screening, brightness and maintenance, and skyline and general balance. The plan provided for the removal of two sets of gates at the town hall in Carlisle street, one at the corner of Carlisle street and Brighton road, and one in Brighton road. (11)

There wasn't, however, unanimous support for this scheme as the following report attests -
Cr. Moroney said he regretted that it was intended to remove the ornamental iron gates on the Brighton-road and Carlisle-street frontages. They were fine specimens of the iron workers' art, and had been an embellishment to the grounds for many years. It would be vandalism to remove them. Even if the hedges and fences were taken away the gates could remain.
Cr. Mitty: they are a relict of the past.
Cr Moroney: Yes. That is why I want remain. I also do not approve of the removal of old and beautiful trees from the grounds. Some of them were planted by distinguished people.
The Mayor (Cr. Dawkins): A number of the old trees will remain, and those removed will be replaced by other trees. (12) 

Hugh Linaker died on October 10, 1938 at the age of 66,  so he did not live to see his plans come to fruition. Mr Linaker's obituary noted that he was regarded as the leading landscape gardener in Victoria. Hugh Linaker, Superintendent of State Parks and Gardens of Victoria had undertaken the landscaping around the Shrine of Remembrance, designed the Pioneer Women's Memorial Garden, had been engaged by Sir John Monash to advice on the planning  of Yallourn and for many years [was] employed by the Department of Mental Hygiene as head gardener, and in that capacity he designed the grounds and gardens of every mental asylum in the State. (13)

In April 1939, The Age reported that the comprehensive scheme for beautifying the grounds surrounding the structure [Town Hall] is being carried out by the curator (Mr. N. Scovle), under the supervision or the city engineer (Mr. R. T. Kelly) and that  the ornamental cast-iron gates at the Brighton-road and Carlisle-street entrances to the grounds are also to go, but they are to be stored for possible re-erection elsewhere. (14)

The St Kilda Town Hall, c. 1930. You can clearly see where the gates were installed at the apex of the town hall triangular site, facing the intersection of Carlisle street and High street. (15)

The building on the right, along High Street (Brighton Road) is the St Kilda State School.  The building to the top of the Town Hall is the Balaclava Methodist Church, which faces Chapel Street, on the corner of Carlisle Street.

St. Kilda Town Hall, c. 1930. Photographer: Sir W. Raymond Garrett. State Library of Victoria, see full image here http://handle.slv.vic.gov.au/10381/278495

What happened to the finest wrought iron gates to be found in Melbourne, as historian Cooper called them? I do not know, but given the time period possibly scrapped and melted down for the War effort. 

Trove list - I have created a list of articles on this topic, you can access it here.

Footnotes
(1) The Argus, July 12, 1923, see here.
(2) The Argus, December 5, 1925, see here.
(3) The Age, October 10, 1934, see here.
(4)  The Argus, December 5, 1925, see here; The Argus, February 25, 1922, see here.
(5) The Argus, March 29, 1922, see here; The Argus, July 8, 1822, see here; The Argus, December 13, 1922, see here.
(6) The Argus, July 12, 1923, see here.
(7) The Argus, May 17, 1924, see here.
(8) Cooper, John Butler The History of St Kilda from its first settlement to a city and after 1840 - 1930, v. 2 (St Kilda City Council, 1931), p. 62.
(9) The Age, August 16, 1938, see here.
(10) The Age, April 1, 1939, see here.
(11) The Argus, August 17, 1938, see here.
(12) The Age, August 16, 1938, see here.
(13) Hugh Linaker - death notice The Age, October 11, 1938, see here; Obituary - The Argus, October 12, 1938, see here and The Australasian, October 15, 1938, see here.
(14) The Age, April 1, 1939, see here.

(15) The Argus, September 5, 1923, see here. 

Pakenham Brass Band - the early years

The Pakenham and District Citizens’ Band was formed on April 24, 1951. It was also known as the Pakenham Brass Band. The band is still going strong and is now called the Cardinia Civic Concert Band. The Pakenham Gazette chronicled the formation of the band, and what follows are any articles I could find in that paper from 1951, 1952, 1953 and February 1954 when Pakenham hosted the Gippsland Massed Bands Display on Sunday February 21.

The Pakenham Brass Band in February 1954.

The Pakenham Gazette published very few photographs in the 1950s, apart from wedding photos of local couples, so this is a rare find. It was part of the publicity for the 

February 1954 Massed Band Display. 

Pakenham Gazette, Friday, February 19, 1954, page 1

Move to form Brass Band in Pakenham

Pakenham Gazette, Friday April 13, 1951 p. 1

Efforts are being made to form a brass band in Pakenham, and judging by the enthusiasm with which the proposal has been taken up, the project should be a success.

Mr Wally Hickmott, of Cardinia, is the prime mover and he has been greatly encouraged by promises of support. He has been pleasantly surprised, too, to discover how many former bandsmen there are in the district – and all willing to lend a helping hand with the proposed organisation. A limited number of instruments, too, is available locally. The proposal will be full discussed at a public meeting on April 24th and all interested – whether prospective members or not – are encouraged to attend.

By the way, if there is anyone locally with a band instrument which they wish to dispose of, Mr Hickmott would be glad to hear from them before the meeting. If the band is formed – and there seems every possibility that it will be – it will be necessary to purchase some instruments to supplement those already available; and if these can be obtained locally, so much the better.

Brass Band for Pakenham. Pakenham us to have a Brass Band of its own.

Pakenham Gazette, Friday, April 27, 1951, p. 1

This decision was made at an enthusiastic meeting held last Tuesday evening, at which the proposal and its possibilities were outlined by Mr. W. Hickmott and Mr. E. McLean.

Pakenham and District Citizens’ Band is the name chosen for the new organization, and the following office bearers were elected: President, Mr R. Kirkland ; vice-presidents, Mr E. McLean and Mr W. Hickmott ; secretary, Mr. D. Weston ; treasurer, Mr R. Lansdown ; band master, Mr E. McLean ; deputy band master, Mr W. Hickmott.

Strong support has been promised by a number of former bandsmen in the district, and at least half of the instruments required are available. As the first method of obtaining the money required to purchase additional instruments, a direct appeal is being made to the public.

Band practice will be held on Tuesday evenings at 8 o’clock sharp, commencing next Tuesday at the Scout Hall. Anyone interested, irrespective of whether he has previous band experience, will be welcome.

The meeting closed with a hearty vote of thanks to Messrs Hickmott and McLean for taking the initial action to form the band. The formation of the band will fill a long-felt want in the town, and the officials are deserving of the fullest possible support.

[Before we continue we will look at the five men who formed the foundation committee of the Pakenham and District Citizens’ Band.
Kirkland, Reginald James. Reginald and his wife Doris lived at Pine Grove, Toomuc Valley Road, Pakenham. He was an orchardist and he served in the Army in World War Two. Reginald died in 1980, aged 75.
McLean, E. Not sure who this is. The Electoral Roll has a Williams and Daisy McLean in Main Street, Pakenham and a Ruth McLean and a Hector McLean, who was a farmer, so I am guessing he was connected to one or more of these people.
Hickmott, Walter Leslie. Walter and his wife Eleanor lived on Ballarto Road, Cardinia. He enlisted in the Army in World War Two and his occupation was listed as a dairy farmer and mail carrier. Walter died in 1970, aged 72.
Weston, D. I presume this is Alexander David Weston, listed in the Electoral Roll on Main Street, Pakenham, occupation pastrycook. Also listed is Hilda Kate Weston.
Lansdown, Reginald Charles. Listed with his wife Hazel, in Station Street, Pakenham. He died in 1996, aged 79. ]

Committee’s Appeal

Pakenham Gazette, Friday, April 27, 1951, p. 1

To the Editor.
Sir, - May we through your columns make a public appeal for funds for Pakenham and District Citizens’ Band, which was formed at a meeting held last Tuesday. The advantages of having such an organization in the town are too obvious to call for any comment by us. We are very fortunate to have available a number of band instruments but more are required, and it is to purchase these that we are appealing for funds. We would be pleased if you could acknowledge through your columns any contributions which are forwarded to us. On behalf of the Committee – Yours etc,
R. KIRKLAND, President
D. WESTON, Hon. Sec.
(We will be pleased to acknowledge any donations. - Ed. G.)

31 at Band’s First Practice

Pakenham Gazette, Friday, May 4, 1951, p. 5

Pakenham and District Citizens’ Brass Band got off to a good start last Thursday night, when 31 attended the first practice. Amongst the number were experienced bandsmen and a number of young men keen to learn. Next practice will be held in Wednesday night. The treasurer (Mr R. Lansdown) acknowledges with thanks donations of £10 from Mr. D. Purves and £1 from Cr. P.B. Ronald.

Band Needs More Donations

Pakenham Gazette, Friday, May 11, 1951, p. 1

There was again a good muster of 25 at Pakenham Brass Band practice last Wednesday night – but there were not enough instruments to go round. It is to provide these instruments that the committee is seeking funds, and an appeal is again made for donations. Talent and enthusiasm are there, and if the funds to purchase additional instruments are forthcoming Pakenham will soon have a band to be proud of. Additional donation received – Mr W. Savage £1.

Band Concert a Musical Treat

Pakenham Gazette, Friday, September 28, 1951, p. 1

Although heavy rain affected the attendance at King’s Theatre last Friday night, there was a fair crowd present to hear the band recital arranged by the Pakenham and District Citizens’ Brass Band. Those who braved the elements were given a musical treat. The greater part of the programme was provided by the Melbourne and Metropolitan Tramways Band, and their selection of marches, waltzes, hymns and popular numbers won generous applause from the audience. Pakenham Band too received a very encouraging reception when they presented a bracket of two numbers.

In introducing the Tramways Band, Cr L.J. Cochrane, M.L.A., congratulated those responsible for forming the Pakenham Band and wished the new organization every success. He mentioned the possibility of obtaining a Treasury grant to assist in the formation of the Band, and offered his help in efforts to secure this. He warmly thanked the visiting Band for coming out to help the local Band.

Mr W. Hickmott presided. At the close of the evening a hearty vote of thanks was accorded the visitors at instance of Messrs. Hickmott and Reg. Kirkland. Pakenham Band’s funds will benefit substantially as a result of the concert.

Pakenham Brass Band

Pakenham Gazette, Friday, November 1, 1951, p. 1

At last Wednesdays meeting of Pakenham Brass Band Committee, the treasurer (Mr. Reg. Lansdown) had the satisfaction of presenting a financial statement showing a credit balance of £60, but within a few minutes amounts totalling only £3 less than that sum were passed for payment.

The Band is gradually improving its position and as funds come in additional instruments are purchased. Expenses of hall rent, etc.,for practices are met by weekly contributions from the enthusiastic bandsmen. Just how expensive it is to start a band will be realized from the statement that it cost just on £1600 to purchase a complete new set of instruments.

A fairly substantial sum has already been received in donations from residents who realize what an outstanding advantage it is to have a Band in the district; but much more money is needed to get the band fully equipped. To help raise funds, it was decided to circulate residents.

Mr W. Hickmott was elected secretary, in place of Mr. Alan Stephenson, who has resigned. Enquiries are to be made regarding affiliation with the Bands Association, and also as to the possibility of staging a band contest at Pakenham.

More Bandsmen Wanted – or No Band

Pakenham Gazette, Friday, February 1, 1952, p. 1

Pakenham Brass Band established a few months ago is being considerably hampered by lack of sufficient players and at a meeting last Wednesday it was reluctantly decided that unless more support is forthcoming the band should go out of existence. Whether this step is taken will depend on the attendance at a meeting to be held next Wednesday evening.

The advantages of having in the district a band which would be available for many functions are so obvious as to need no emphasis. The small group of enthusiasts who conceived the idea of forming Pakenham Brass Band and have given up many hours of their time in an endeavor to get it firmly established have done yeoman service. Slowly but surely they have collected funds necessary for the purchase of instruments, of which a fair number is now available. However, it is an old saying that “one can’t make bricks without straw” and it is equally true that a band cannot be made without sufficient bandsmen.

That is the difficulty which confronts the officers to-day. And it is a problem which can only be solved in one way – by a number of residents coming forward and showing their willingness to sacrifice an hour or two each week to practice.

If you are interested yourself or if you know of anyone who may be interested, help to swell the attendance at next Wednesday’s meeting and give the officials encouragement in their efforts to help Pakenham and district.

Band to Carry On.

Pakenham Gazette, Friday, February 8, 1952, p. 1

Pakenham Brass Band is to carry on. This decision was reached at a meeting last Wednesday evening in view of the good response to an appeal for more bandsmen. That more players are still required anyone interested is invited to come along to band practice and Wednesday night at 8 o’clock. The Band is now intensifying practice in preparation for the next public appearance at Pakenham Show. 

Pakenham Show Should be a Brilliant Success

Pakenham Gazette, Friday, March 7, 1952, p. 1

The engagement of Pakenham Band to play during the afternoon should enliven proceedings. Not only this, but it should serve as a demonstration to the public of the usefulness of this new organization.

Pakenham Show breaks all records.  Band’s Good Performance.

Pakenham Gazette, Friday, March 14, 1952, p. 1  

Pakenham Brass Band, under the charge of Bandmaster, Wally Hickmott, had their first full-scale appearance and won many congratulatory remarks. For a band which has been inexistence only a few months they gave an excellent performance. A bright future is predicted for them if enthusiasm can be maintained.

Brass Band’s Value to Town

Pakenham Gazette, Friday, May 2 1951, p.1

Following their performance at the Pakenham Show and again at the Anzac service last Sunday, Pakenham Band has been highly commended by district residents. The Band contributed greatly to the impressiveness of last Sunday’s service, and Bandmaster Wally Hickmott and his bandsmen were heartily congratulated and thanked. Every appearance of the band proves more and more its value to the community.

The Band is here to stay, thanks to the enthusiasm of a small number of members. There are two ways in which residents can assist – by making a donation to the band for purchase of additional instruments and by swelling the ranks of the bandsmen.

Uniforms for Band

Pakenham Gazette, Friday, June 20, 1952, p.1  

The committee of Pakenham Brass Band this week received an excellent offer of which they intend to take advantage. It was for the delivery to them of 30 complete uniforms, used but in first class condition, for £75. Purchase of the uniforms will put a severe strain on the Band’s funds, but the committee consider the opportunity too good to miss. With the policy of self-help which has been typical of them from the start, a number of the bandsmen will meet the cost of their own uniforms.

£10 Donation for Pakenham Band

Pakenham Gazette, Friday, July 25, 1952, p. 3

Berwick Shire Council at their meeting last Monday decided to make a donation of £10 to Pakenham Brass Band, towards the cost of purchasing uniforms. The motion was moved by Cr Ronald, seconded by Cr Dore and supported by the Shire President (Cr Robinson) and Cr Thewlis, all of whom paid tribute to the excellent job the band was doing.

The Pakenham Brass Band, pictured at the Berwick Show in February 1954

Weekly Times, February 10, 1954 https://trove.nla.gov.au/newspaper/article/224912990

Band Get Uniforms

Pakenham Gazette, October 17, 1952 p. 1

Uniforms for Pakenham Brass Band – ordered several months ago – have now arrived. Interest in the Band is steadily increasing, stimulated no doubt by the knowledge that members have now reached such a degree of proficiency that they can now confidently accept outside engagements. The attendance at last Monday’s practice was the best yet. An encouraging feature is the number of young lads who have come forward in response to an invitation by Mr Arthur King to give then instruction.

In addition to playing at Berwick Show, the Band accepted an offer to play at Officer on 5th November. Other engagements are also under consideration. The Band acknowledges with thanks a donation of £2/2/- from Pakenham Racing Club.

Pakenham Show Tomorrow should break all records.

Pakenham Gazette, Friday, March 13, 1953, p. 1

Pakenham Brass Band will render selections during the day. They will be strengthened by some members of the Morwell band and will number in all about 30. About mid-day they are to march through the town to the ground.

Brilliant Display, Big Crowd at Pakenham’s 38th Show. Band's Great Éffort.

Pakenham Gazette, Friday March 20, 1953, p.1

A special “Thank you” goes to the Pakenham Brass Band, who livened proceedings with a number of selections. The band is on the “up and up,” improving with every public appearance, and they are to be congratulated on a highly creditable performance. The Band is a great asset, not only to Pakenham but to the whole district, and Bandmaster Hickmott and his men deserve every support.

 Anzac Commemoration Service at Pakenham.

Pakenham Gazette, Friday, May 1 1953, p. 1  

Organized by the Pakenham, sub-branch R.S.L., an Anzac Commemoration service at the Mechanics’ Hall last Sunday afternoon was attended by about 120 people. Prior to the service about 30 ex-servicemen assembled at the Shire Hall and led by the Pakenham Brass band, marched to the Mechanics’ Hall. [article continues with description of service]

[The Pakenham Brass Band was also played at the 1953 Anzac Day March at Emerald, see report in the Mountain Free Press of April 30, 1953, here.]

 Band is here to stay.

Pakenham Gazette, Friday May 8, 1953, p. 1  

The annual meeting of Pakenham Brass Brass Band is to be held at the Recreation Reserve pavilion next Monday night, and it is hoped that there will be a big number of residents present to give encouragement to an organization which in the two years of its existence has proved its great value to the community. Anyone who has heard the Band cannot but to have been impressed with its good performance. Under the leadership of Bandmaster Wally Hickmott, the young bandsmen are making rapid strides. Shortage of funds would have crippled an organization whose members were less keen, but in this instance the difficulty has been overcome by the bandsmen purchasing their own uniforms, paying all travelling expenses and in several instances providing their own instruments. The Band is at the service of all parts of the district at any time, and more engagements are coming in each week. On Saturday week they will play at the Pakenham races; on Coronation Day they have two engagements – at a combined Church service in Pakenham, in the morning and at a sports meeting in Upper Beaconsfield, in the afternoon; and in July they will visit Lang Lang for special Church service. If you feel that the band is doing a good job – and anyone not satisfied must be hard to please – make an effort to attend Monday’s meeting. And if at any time you care to make a donation to funds your gift will help in the purchase of more instruments.

Band Had a Good Year.

Pakenham Gazette, Friday May 15, 1953, p. 1

Despite heavy expenditure on uniforms and instruments, Pakenham Brass Band almost “squared the ledger” in the past year, it was reported to the annual meeting last Monday night. The statement of accounts showed a deficit of 7/5, but this was quickly wiped out, as the bandsmen immediately purchased members’ tickets at 10/6 each, and donations of £9/9/- were received.

Reports by the president (Mr. Reg Kirkland), bandmaster (Mr. W. Hickmott), and treasurer (Mr. Reg Lansdown) left no room for doubt that the past year had been one of advancement – progress in the musical education of the young bandsmen, greater public recognition of the Band, and consolidation of the financial position.

To provide the Band with more comfortable quarters, it was decided to apply for the use of a room at the Consolidated School for practices.

Up to the present the members have met all their own expenses in travelling to fulfil outside engagements, but it was agreed that after three functions which they have already promised to attend they should in future stipulate that the organisation which they are assisting should meet the cost of travelling by bus.

The following officers were elected for the ensuing years: - President, Mr. F. Dodds; vice-president, Mr. F. Lansdown; secretary, Mr. Ken Webster; treasurer, Mr R. Lansdown; auditor, Mr R. Ramage.

Band Auxiliary Raised £41

Pakenham Gazette, Friday, June 2, 1953, p.1

Formed only a few weeks ago the Pakenham Band Auxiliary had already done excellent work, in raising funds and assisting the social side of the Bands activities. It was reported to last Monday’s meeting of the Band that the Auxiliary’s two latest efforts – the holding of a street stall and the provision of afternoon tea at the Coronation Sports day had brought in the splendid sum of £41/0/3. The ladies were heartily thanked by the Band members for their practical help. It was decided that the Auxiliary should in future function as a separate body, electing their own officers and arranging their own functions.

Community Singing aids Band Funds

Pakenham Gazette, Friday, July 3, 1953, p.1 

The funds of the Pakenham Brass Band will benefit considerably as a result of community singing held at the Mechanics’ Hall last Sunday night. Included in an interesting programme were items by the band. Mr Colin Blair acted as compere and the accompaniments were played by Messrs C. Gilbert (piano), C. Barnett (mouth organ), and Mrs A. Kennedy and Mr F. Ramsdale (accordions). Mr W. Hickmott, bandmaster, on behalf of the band, expressed their sincere thanks to the organizers of the Community singing (Messrs L. Cook, C. Lothian and R. McWatt) and all others who helped with the arrangements of the evening. In responding Mr Cook spoke of the great acquisition the band was to the district and the need for the public give all the support possible. The organizers desired to express their thanks to all assisted and particularly Mr. Reg Moloney, who lent and installed his sound system.

Band Gave Recital at Lang Lang

Pakenham Gazette, Friday July 17, 1953, p. 7  

Pakenham Brass Band had their first full night’s engagement last Sunday, when they visited Lang Lang to give a recital in connection with the 80th anniversary celebration of the Church of England. Apart from two vocal numbers the band provided the entire programme for the night. They gave an excellent performance for which they were heartily thanked by the Rev. M. Clarke and Cr. G. Ridgway.

Pakenham Brass Band made an Impressive Showing at Sale

Pakenham Gazette, Friday, December 18, 1953, p. 1

Pakenham Brass Band visited Sale last Sunday for their first big engagement – to take part in a massed band display. This young band put up a really remarkable performance considering that it is only 2 years since it was formed. In a discipline contest they came a very close second to Warragul, the judge announcing that he had great difficulty separating the two.

In the street marching they were awarded third place. The winner of the trophy was the Morwell Band. By the way, Drum Major Reg Kirkland, of Pakenham, filled the vacancy when Morwell’s drum major was unavoidably absent. He then returned by car to the starting point to lead Pakenham on.

In addition to taking part in the massed bands items, Pakenham Band presented a selection. Bandmaster Frank Walsh was in charge of the massed bands for two items. Altogether it was a notable day for the bandsmen and the big crowd of onlookers. The spectacle of some 250 bandsmen in uniform (totalling eight different bands) marching and playing made a great impression.

On Sunday, 21st February, there is to be a massed band display at Pakenham, arranged by the local brass band, and the occasion will be eagerly looked forward to.

[The Gippsland Times of December 14, 1953 had  a report on the Sale Massed Band Display - read it here.]

Girl members of the Pakenham District Band at the Back-to Koo Wee Rup North State School sports day held in October 1954 - Rosemary, Noreen and Rosalie Wells.  Rosemary and Rosalie were identical twins. Rosemary (Mynard) was involved for many years with the Cranbourne Shire Historical Society and curator of the Fishermans Cottage Museum at Tooradin.

Weekly Times, October 27, 1954 http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article224550347

Massed Band Display Delighted 1000 People

Pakenham Gazette, Friday February 26, 1954, page 1

A crowd estimated at close on 1000 last Sunday afternoon attended the massed band’s display at Pakenham Recreation Reserve – and enjoyed every minute of it. Six Gippsland bands took part and gave a really meritorious performance.

A big crowd assembled in Station Street to watch the bands move off to the Recreation Reserve, at the gate way of which was erected an archway – the work of Pakenham band Secretary, Mr Len Webster - bearing the words “’Welcome to Pakenham.”

The Bands took up their position at the northern end of the arena, then marched in mass formation to the southern end to group around a “platform” formed by the trays of two semi-trailers, kindly lent for the occasion by Dunning Transport Pty Ltd. The whole show was excellently compered by Mr Norman Ellis, of 3UZ.

Massed Bands Impressive
The bands were heard to good effect in numerous well-presented selections, but the “gems” of the programme were the hymns, “Rock of Ages” and “Abide With me,” played by the massed bands under the leadership of Pakenham Bandmaster Frank Walsh.

The bands were welcomed to Pakenham by Cr. P.B. Ronald, who apologised for the absence of the Shire President (Cr. D. Kinsella) owing to illness. It was very fitting, said, Cr Ronald, that the first massed bands display in this area should be held in Pakenham, “the capital of the Berwick Shire.” Pakenham people were very proud of their band and had demonstrated that pride fittingly by raising sufficient money to erect a musical shell in Bourke Park, adjacent to the Railway Station. He sincerely thanked neighbouring bands from Gippsland for coming along to take part in the display. As he saw it, a band had two duties – the first to entertain, the second to develop a sense of musical appreciation. To do this cost money. To further their musical education it was necessary for the bands to visit various centres and meet other bands. That entailed considerable expense.

£3000 to Equip Band
Few people realized, continued Cr. Ronald, the great amount involved in providing instruments for a band. To buy new instruments for a band of 30 men would cost in the vicinity of £3000. A new euphonium cost £150. Naturally few of the instruments being used on the ground that day were new. Most of the bands started in a small way with secondhand instruments and gradually built up. With the support and encouragement of the people of their respective districts they would continue to advance. The proceeds from that day were going to Pakenham band, to help defray the cost incurred by members in travelling to other centres and helping other bands, as they had been helped that day. Any donations which might be forthcoming would be greatly appreciated. He congratulated the bands on trying to help each other. He also congratulated the officials – Bandmaster Frank Walsh, Drum Major Reg, Kirkland, Secretary Len Webster and Chief Steward Frank Lansdown – on the excellent organization of the display. He also mentioned the Pakenham band was extremely fortunate to have an excellent Auxiliary, the members of which were providing afternoon that day and also helped in many other directions. They had raised a considerable sum of money for the Band. Cr. Ronald concluded by extending on behalf of the Shire President and Councillors and the residents generally a warm welcome to Pakenham.

Officials Impressed
Mr. Harry Oliver, President of the Central Gippsland Bands Group, also extended a welcome to the massed bands.

Capt. Hill, of the Victorian Bands League, acted as adjudicator for the day. Visiting officials were very complimentary regarding the organization of the day and remarked that this was the first occasion at a gathering of this kind that continuity in the programme had been attempted.

Two Trophies to Warragul : One to Morwell
Three trophies were awarded in connection with the display and Warragul had a “field day,” winning the awards for oval marching and discipline. Morwell won the prize for street marching. Points in these two marching competitions were as follow: Street March: Morwell 34, Warragul 32, Pakenham 29, Sale 29, Maffra 28, Traralgon 27. Oval March: Warragul 47, Morwell 46, Maffra 41, Pakenham 38, Sale 32.

Donors of trophies were: For the street march: Messrs W. Hickmott and R. Kirkland ; discipline, Bandmaster Frank Walsh ; oval march, Mr Frank Dodds (president). As usual, Mr Wes. Williams, of Dandenong, did an excellent job with his public address system.

Auxiliary’s Help
The Ladies’ Auxiliary, as usual, did a splendid job of catering. They provided free of charge afternoon tea for all the bandsmen, and although the patronage for luncheon was not a s great as expected, they will more than “break even.” It would be invidious to select any of the ladies for special mention. Suffice it to say that all members of the Auxiliary and many other willing helpers did splendid work.

Donations in cash and kind helped towards the financial success of the day. Amongst those to give cash donations were Cr. P.B. Ronald, and Messrs. B.J. Doherty, J. Richards, J. Emmerton and C. Plummer. Those who helped with donations in kind included Messrs. Lia, Gook, Cook, McLean, Whitelaw, Trew, Taylor and Atkinson.

Support Appreciated
Bandmaster Frank Walsh expressed his gratification at the support received. There was not one tradesman who was approached who did not willingly lend a hand, and the support of the residents was very encouraging to the Band.

Alice Morris (1852-1912) and Sarah McTavish (1860-1923) - buried together at Cheltenham Pioneer Cemetery

Alice Morris and Sarah McTavish are buried together in an unmarked grave in the Roman Catholic section at the Cheltenham Pioneer Cemetery. This is the story about their lives and why they were buried together.  

Alice Morris (nee Fryer)
The South Bourke & Mornington Journal of November 7, 1912 published the following obituary -
Koo-Wee-Rup - On October 19 Mrs J. Morris passed away at her residence in Cheltenham. She had been an invalid for the last four years, and the cause of death was apoplexy. She received spiritual consolation from Father Quinn. The funeral took place on October 22 in the Cheltenham cemetery. The deceased was highly respected by all and had many friends here, being an old resident of Rossiter road. Her husband predeceased her by many years. She leaves two married daughters, one being Mrs D. McNamara, of this town, and Mrs Scott, of Flynn's Creek. (1)

At the time of her death, Mrs Morris’ residence was the Benevolent Asylum at Cheltenham, and she had been admitted there on September 6, 1907, due to partial paralysis. (2)

Alice Morris, born 1852 (3), was the middle child of the nine children of Peter Fryer and his wife Elizabeth ‘Betsy’ Baker. Peter was born in Lancaster in 1805, and there are two versions of how he arrived in Australia.  There was a Peter Fryer, born in Lancashire who was convicted on April 7, 1834 at the Lancaster Quarter Sessions and sentenced to seven years transportation. He arrived on the Henry Porcher on January 1, 1835 and received his Ticket of leave in May 1839 and his Ticket of Freedom in November 1843. (4) However, the book Reminiscences of Fryerstown by G.O. Brown notes that he migrated to New South Wales in 1838 at the age of 33 and he was the son of a farmer. I suspect that he did actually arrive as a convict, but like other convicts, later hid that part of his life. Reminiscences of Fryerstown also notes that Peter Fryer set out for Victoria with Horatio Spencer Wills, Mrs Wills and baby, a number of station hands and livestock, including 5000 sheep, two bullock wagons and teams and other carts. They reached the Murray River in May 1840 and eventually reached their destination, Mount William, near Ararat. (5)

Mount William, Peter Fryer's first location in Victoria

Mount William, from Stockyard Hill, 1855. Illustrator: S.T.Gill

State Library of Victoria image H4590

Wills established a sheep station there, named Lexington. (6)  It was at Lexington that Peter Fryer met Betsy Baker and they married at Geelong in a Presbyterian service on March 1, 1842. Their first four children, Elizabeth, Mary, Sarah and Jane were all born at Mount William, between 1842 and 1849.  (7). In 1851 Peter had taken up the lease of Molka Station, and this is where they were living when their other children were born between 1852 and 1863 – Alice, Henry, John, Eugenie and a stillborn baby. (8)

Molka Station consisted of 30,000 acres, on the Goulburn River and its location was sometimes referred to as Longwood and sometimes Murchison. (9) On a modern map, equidistance from Murchison, Euroa and Longwood is a locality called Molka at which a school operated from 1886 until 1907 (10). In May 1857, The Age published a list of station owners and the number of stock they held, as they had to pay the Government a tax on the stock, and Peter Fryer was listed as owning 6,624 sheep.  (11)

The Fryers were living at Molka Station until at least  October1866, however on August 13, 1868 when Peter died the family was living at Floradale House at Kilmore. His short obituary from The Argus of August 21, 1868 tells us another interesting fact about Peter Fryer - The death of Mr. Peter Fryer, whose station gave name to the diggings of Fryer's Creek and the later township of Fryerstown, is reported by a Kilmore paper. Mr. Fryer left the part of the country referred to while it was yet yielding its rich returns, and took up his residence at Molka station, on the Goulburn, where he lived until a couple of years ago. He then purchased the property that he lately occupied at Floradale, and made some extensive improvements, which he did not live to enjoy. (12)

There is no information as to the length of time Peter Fryer was in the area which bears his name, but must have been only about two years (13)

Peter Fryer's estate as listed in Probate papers

Public Records Office of Victoria VPRS 28/P0001, 7/122

His probate papers noted that at the time of his death Peter possessed a considerable estate including the pre-emptive right section of Molka Station; the Punt Hotel (later called the Commercial Hotel) and the associated punt at Murchison; the Floradale property at Kilmore and 11,000 sheep. (14).  His wife, Elizabeth, died on November 7, 1882 at Kilmore. Her death certificate doesn’t list her parents, but notes her birth place as County Cork, Ireland. (15)

On December 1, 1877 their daughter, Alice Fryer, married 22 year old John Morris in Kilmore. They had five children - Henry (1878, born in Bairnsdale, and died in 1879 aged seven months); John (born and died in Collingwood in 1879; he was only 10 days old); Alice (born in 1880 at Kilmore), Jane (born in 1881 at Kilmore) and Elizabeth (born in December 1883 in Kilmore and died two months later). (16)

Sadly, John Morris died of typhoid on April 22, 1883, so never got to see his last child. His short obituary in the Kilmore Free Press noted - John Morris died at the local Hospital on Sunday. Deceased, who was only 29 years of age was known here for some time and was popular as an obliging driver between Kilmore and the railway station. (17) His death left Alice a widow, having to bring up her two surviving daughters, Alice and Jane, on her own.

 Kilmore Hospital where John Morris passed away at the age of 29.

Kilmore Hospital, c. 1905. Photographer: G.B. Good. 

State Library of Victoria image H2018.482/13

I have no information about where she lived after the death of her husband, although Alice’s obituary states that she was an old resident of  Rossiter Road, Koo Wee Rup, but I can’t trace her time in the town. However, on August 9, 1909, her daughter, 30 year-old Alice married 44 year-old Denis McNamara of Koo Wee Rup, at St Joseph’s Catholic Church in Collingwood.  (18)  Denis was a storekeeper, at the time of their marriage, and in 1915 he built the Royal Hotel in Koo Wee Rup, which at the opening was reported to be one of the finest edifices of the kind in Gippsland. It is still standing. (19) 

Rossiter Road, Koo Wee Rup in 1903; it would not have looked much different 

when Alice Morris lived there.

Photo: Koo Wee Rup Swamp Historical Society

Denis had been married before, his first wife, Mary Anne died in October 1905, leaving behind two young children, May and Frank. Denis and Alice had four children together - Alice (1909-1951, married Daniel Parks in 1929); John (1910-1986. He was ordained as a Priest in 1935, was an RAAF Chaplain during the Second World War. His obituary noted that the year of his birth and the year of his death coincided with the appearance of Halley’s Comet); Margaret Frances (1914-2004, married Cecil Ernest Murray, in 1941) and Colleen Josephine (1917-2004, did not marry) (20)

The McNamara Family, c. 1921. 

Standing at back - Alice and May

Seated - Denis with Colleen, Alice (nee Morris) John and Frank. Margaret is at the front.

Photographer:Yeoman & Co. Koo Wee Rup Swamp Historical Society collection.

The other surviving daughter of John and Alice Morris was Jane. Jane married twice, firstly to Charles Darke in 1903 and after his death to George Scott in 1906. George served in the AIF in World War One; he enlisted at the age of 44, in August 1915 and his address was Hill’s Hotel, Albert Park, and his occupation a farmer, Jane as his next of kin had her address as Koo Wee Rup, more than likely staying with her sister, Alice McNamara. When George was medically discharged in October 1917, their address was 175 Franklin Street, Melbourne. (21)  At the time of his death in October 1927 they were living at Arbinger Street in Richmond. Jane’s death certificate says that she had two children with Charles and four with George and that they were all deceased, which is very sad. The only one I can trace is baby John George Scott, who was born in Foster and died at the age of six months on June 6, 1919. (22)

Jane and her sister, Alice McNamara, by coincidence died on the same day, June 28, 1937. As Alice’s obituary in the Koo Wee Rup Sun of July 1, noted –
On Friday last the deceased received word of the illness of her sister and only relative, Mrs Jane Scott, wife of the late Mr G. Scott (late A.I.F.), of South Melbourne, and she hurried to the city to render what aid she could on her behalf. Leaving her son Frank's suburban residence for the railway station on Monday morning to visit the hospital where her sister was an inmate, the deceased suddenly collapsed in the railway yards and passed to the Great Beyond. Strange to relate, within three hours her sister had joined her in the Great Adventure. (23)

Jane died at the Little Sisters of the Poor in Northcote and was buried at Fawkner Cemetery with George; Alice McNamara is buried with her husband, Denis at Pakenham. (24)

Sarah McTavish (nee Smith)
Alice Morris is buried in the same grave as 62 year old Sarah McTavish, who died August 5, 1923 at the Alfred Hospital. Sarah had been born in Collingwood in 1860 to Edward and Catherine Smith, who had married in Sydney in 1853; Catherine’s maiden name was Hanna, sometimes listed as Hannah. Catherine was 16 at the time of the marriage and Edward was nineteen.  Their other children were John (1855), Rosehannah (1857), Catherine (1864), Thomas (1865), Elizabeth (1866) and Joseph (1868). The last two children were born in Warrnambool and the others in Melbourne. (25)

Sarah married William McTavish on October 4, 1883 at the office of the marriage registrar in Drummond Street, Carlton. William was a 29 year old ships steward, and had been born in Hamilton in Scotland, the son of William and Helen (nee Maitland) McTavish. Sarah was a 22 year old domestic servant. Edward Smith, Sarah’s father, was a baker and he died in 1886.  (26)

On February 12, 1891, Sarah’s mother died in tragic circumstances in Collingwood as The Argus reported -
At the Melbourne Hospital on Saturday an inquest was held by Mr. Candler the district coroner on the body of Catherine Smith, who was found by a constable in Islington street, Collingwood, on Thursday evening last. The deceased was resting on the footpath, and on being spoken to was found to be in an insensible condition. She was taken to the Melbourne Hospital, but expired on the way to that institution. (27)

From The Herald of February 14, 1891, comes this report of the Inquest - 

Dr. Walter J. Craig stated that he made a post mortem examination of the body. The body was well nourished. Blood was oozing from a wound in the lower part of the body, and her clothes wore soaked with blood. The cause of death was hemorrhage [sic] from the wound, accelerated by the weak condition of the internal organs.

The Coroner: Was there any evidence to show how the wound was caused?

Dr. Craig: No, none whatever. Deceased lost a deal of blood.

Mary Loxton, in charge of Dr. Singleton's Night Shelter, Islington street, Collingwood, deposed to being called to see the deceased by a constable, on Thursday night. Recognised the deceased as a widow named Catherine Smith, who had previously slept at the Shelter, some 9 or 10 months since. (28)

The Argus of February 16, 1891 had more details  - 

From inquiries made by the police yesterday, it is now ascertained that the deceased resided with her married daughter, a Mrs. McTavish in Ann street, Williamstown, during the last two months. On Thursday last, the day of her death, she left her daughter's home in Williamstown at 5 p.m., with the intention of visiting some friends in Collingwood. The police were unable to trace where she had been from the time she left home until half past 9 on the same evening, when she was seen by Constable Vickers at the corner of Rupert street and Victoria parade. About an hour and a half afterwards...she was found in Islington street Collingwood, near to Dr. Singleton's Night Shelter. (29)

Dr Singleton's Night Shelter, Islington Street, Collingwood, where Catherine Smith 

had spent some time.

Seeking Admission to the Night Shelter for Women, published in the Australian Illustrated News, June 1, 1891.

State Library of Victoria image IAN01/06/91/1

Two months later, a more sinister report was in The Herald in April 3, 1891. In this article it was reported that the body of an unidentified woman, of the unfortunate class, had been found behind a house in Hoddle Street, Collingwood and she had died from an internal wound in the lower part of the abdomen, from which her life blood had simply flowed away. The report continued –
It is a very remarkable fact that this is the third death of a similar kind during the last 13 months, and this fact would engender the suspicion that an individual of the Jack the Ripper type has been carrying on his horrible and bloody work in Collingwood. It is very remarkable that in the three cases under notice the victims were women of doubtful character, that the injuries were inflicted on the same parts of their bodies, and that the fatal wounds were received in Collingwood and its vicinity. Of course, it is quite possible that this theory of wilful murder is incorrect, but on the other hand there is strong presumptive evidence that the assassin's hand had been at work. In the previous cases inquests were held, and open verdicts returned. (30)

Was Catherine Smith killed by a serial killer?

The Herald, April 3, 1891, http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article241552124

Later reports identified the third victim as thirty year-old, Rose Sumner (nee McGinty). Rose was married at 17 and the married life of the couple is stated to have been throughout one of misery; it produced five children and misfortune rapidly proceeded misfortune, her husband was jailed, three children were taken into care, she found employment as a bar maid at a hotel in Collingwood, but was sacked because she was drunk. It appears the next day she met a man named John Finnegan and her fate was sealed as he inflicted repeated acts of violence upon her, which caused her death. John Finnegan, who lived in Hoddle Street, Collingwood was charged and found guilty of her murder and was initially sentenced to death but this was commuted to life in prison, so Rose did achieve justice of some sort. (31)

Not so for Catherine Smith and the other woman, Jane Johnson, whose body was found on March 6, 1890. What the newspaper reports did not say, but the Coroner’s report did, was that both Catherine and Jane had been stabbed in the vagina. In both cases the Coroner found that there was no evidence how this was caused.  In fact in Catherine’s case it was supposed that the deceased fell when trying to pick up a stick she carried for support as Dr W. G. Craig's evidence at the inquest was to the effect that the iron ferrule at the bottom of the stick "could have caused the wound." (32)

It was reported that Jane Johnson had fallen on evil times due to drink and dissolute habits and that Catherine had smelt of alcohol and add that to the fact that she had previously stayed at the Night Shelter – it put both these women into the unfortunate class. (33) It seems that these women were not valued and that their deaths which appear to have been of a sadistic sexual nature were not taken seriously. You have to wonder did they also have the misfortune to meet John Finnegan?

Sarah's In Memorial notice for her mother

The Age, February 13, 1892 http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article197007585

We know then, due to the reports of her mother’s death, that Sarah and William were living in Williamstown in 1891, and the 1890 Sands & McDougall Directory has their address as 52 Ann Street, Williamstown, not surprising given his occupation as a ships steward. In 1892 they inserted the loving In Memorial notice for Catherine and their address was Newport which is just next door to Williamstown. At the time of her death Sarah was a widow and her address was 236 Coventry Street, South Melbourne, which was a lodging house. Once again, I have no other information about their life together or when William died apart from the fact that they had no children. (34)

The connection between Alice and Sarah.
What is the connection between Alice Morris and Sarah McTavish? The grave at the Cheltenham Cemetery was owned by Alice’s daughter, Alice McNamara. Sarah died without a will, and her Probate papers list her assets as £130, which was the balance of the amount paid into the County Court, under the Workers’ Compensation Act for the benefit of the said deceased. This was possibly connected to the death of her husband. 

Sarah's Grant of Administration file notes that it was Alice McNamara who informed the Curator of Estates of Deceased Persons, that Sarah had passed away and that her surviving next of kin were her two nieces, Alice McNamara and Jane Scott. They also inserted a death notice in The Age on August 8, 1923.(35)

Sarah McTavish death notice

The Age, August 8, 1923 http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article203624741

If Alice McNamara and Jane Scott were the nieces of Sarah McTavish, then Sarah would have been the  sister of either their father, John Morris or their mother, Alice Fryer.  However Sarah’s father’s surname was Smith and her mother’s surname was Hanna. Sarah may have been a step-sister or half sister to John Morris or Alice Fryer; alternatively Sarah may have been a cousin, or she may have just been a family friend, who was called Aunty. She obviously had some close connection, because Alice McNamara was fond enough of her to have her buried with her mother at the Cheltenham Pioneer Cemetery.

Trove List - I have created a  short list of articles on Peter Fryer, access it here and on the death of Catherine Smith and Rose Sumner, access it here.

Footnotes

(1) South Bourke & Mornington Journal, September 26, 1912, see here.

(2) Sellers, Travis M. The Melbourne Benevolent Asylum: Haven of Rest (Friends of Cheltenham & Regional cemeteries, 2012)

(3) This is just a guess, as I can't find a reference to her birth in the Indexes to the Victorian Births, Deaths and Marriages.

(4) Convict Records from the State Records Authority of New South Wales,  digitised on Ancestry.com

(5) Brown, G.O. Reminiscences of Fryerstown (The Author, 1983). Henry Spencer Wills - Biography - The Argus, March 12, 1921, see here and image here at the State Library of Victoria  http://handle.slv.vic.gov.au/10381/32196   

(6) Billis, R.V. and Kenyon, A.S., Pastoral Pioneers of Port Phillip (Stockland Press, 1974)

(7) Brown, op. cit.;  Peter Fryer/Elizabeth Baker Marriage certificate. Birth of children - Elizabeth, Mary and Jane had their birth registered in 1850, however they were baptised at St Peter's Eastern Hill in Melbourne on April 26, 1850. Their birth place was listed as Mt William, Wimmera; and birth  dates Elizabeth - October 25 1842; Mary - May 25, 1844; Jane - September 13, 1849. Sarah was born in 1847, this is based on her age at death, and her birth was registered in 1856. 

(8) Molka Station - there was an advertisement in The Argus on September 6, 1851 (see here) from Peter Fryer of Mocha [sic] Station about a horse, so he was there then even though Billis & Kenyon (footnote 6) list his arrival at Molka in June 1852. The children born at Molka were - Alice, c. 1852; Henry, birth registered 1856; John Cerdic, c. 1857, I can't find a registration;  Eugenie, c. 1858 and a stillborn daughter born in December 1863 - death notice in The Argus, December 16, 1863, see here. There was a hearing in the Supreme Court regarding Peter Fryer's estate, the notice of which lists the children, see The Argus, June 5, 1876, here.

(9) Billis & Kenyon, op. cit.; see my Trove list, here, for examples of address of property.

(10) Vision and Realisation: a centenary history of State Education in Victoria, edited by L.J. Blake. (Education Department of Victoria, 1973)

(11) The Age, May 12, 1857, see here.

(12) Acquired more land at Molka in 1866 - The Argus, October 9, 1866, see here;  Short obituary - The Argus, August 21, 1868, see here.

(13) G.O. Brown (footnote 5)  regarding Peter Fryer notes that how many years he remained on Fryer's Creek cannot be ascertained.

(14) Peter Fryer, Grant of Probate, Public Records Office of Victoria VPRS 28/P0001, 7/122,   https://prov.vic.gov.au/archive/63F25B19-F1DB-11E9-AE98-DF30C64CA99B?image=1

(15) Elizabeth Fryer, death certificate

(16) I can't find the marriage  on the  Index to Victorian Births, Deaths and Marriages, however that is the date and place listed on their daughter Alice's birth certificate. Information about their children from the Index to Victorian  Births, Deaths and Marriages and Elizabeth Morris' 1884 Death certificate.

(17) John Morris death certificate and his short obituary Kilmore Free Press, April 26, 1883, see here.

(18) Alice Morris/ Denis McNamara marriage certificate. 

(19) I have written about the Royal Hotel and the McNamara family here   https://kooweerupswamphistory.blogspot.com/2023/07/royal-hotel-koo-wee-rup-mcnamara-obrien.html

(20) https://kooweerupswamphistory.blogspot.com/2023/07/royal-hotel-koo-wee-rup-mcnamara-obrien.html

(21) Jane Scott's death certificate; Index to Victorian  Births, Deaths and Marriages. George Scott (SN 3936) First AIF Attestation papers, National Archives of Australia   https://recordsearch.naa.gov.au/SearchNRetrieve/Interface/ViewImage.aspx?B=3002962. 

(22) George Scott Probate papers, Public Records Office of Victoria VPRS 7591/P0002, 217/535   https://prov.vic.gov.au/archive/3CF9A1B8-F567-11E9-AE98-E732DBD8057F?image=1. 

Death certificates - Jane Scott and John George Scott. 

(23) Koo Wee Rup Sun, July 1 1937, p. 1.

(24) Jane Scott death certificate.

(25) Index to Victorian  and New South Wales Births, Deaths and Marriages

(26) Sarah Smith/William McTavish marriage certificate. Edward is buried at the Melbourne General Cemetery with Catherine and son Thomas, who died in 1901. Thomas was a line repairer and was killed when he was hit by a train - The Age, October 21 1901, see here.

(27) The Argus, February 16, 1891, see here.

(28) The Herald, February 14, 1891, see here.

(29) The Argus, February 16, 1891, see here.

(30) The Herald, April 3, 1891, see here.

(31) Misery and Misfortune quotes from The Argus, April 6 1891, see here; Other information from various articles from The Argus, see my  Trove list, here.

(32) Catherine Smith Inquest at Public Records Office of Victoria VPRS 24/P0000, 1891/198 https://prov.vic.gov.au/archive/86609EFA-F1BE-11E9-AE98-031D2D418C25?image=1

(33) The Herald, April 3, 1891, see here.

(34) Sands & McDougall's Melbourne and suburban directory from 1890; Sarah McTavish death certificate. 

(35) Sarah McTavish Grant of Administration at Public Records Office of Victoria VPRS 28/P0003, 190/321

https://prov.vic.gov.au/archive/5C6B6D41-F1F0-11E9-AE98-67A664A7BEAD?image=1

Croydon Mechanics' Institute

The Box Hill Reporter in November 1905 reported on the beginnings of the Croydon Mechanics' Institute -
The Croydon people of late have been considering the matter of establishing a mechanics' institute in their district, and it is probable that in a very short time the project will be carried to a successful issue, judging by the interest the residents are displaying in the matter. At a recent meeting of the Croydon progressive league, a sub-committee was appointed to deal with a site on which to erect the institute. Various sites were considered, but none decided upon, principally on account of their unsuitable position and high price. At a later stage the larger matter of a recreation reserve presented itself, and the committee thought that if land for a sports ground could be secured, the building could be erected on a portion of it. With this object in view two sites were taken into consideration, when one was very favorably received, seeing that the position was so central and suitable, and the price asked for it (£15 an acre) reasonable. On Saturday last the matter was brought before the Lillydale council by a letter from the league, asking the council to assist the residents in their efforts by purchasing for recreation purposes a block on the corner of Oxford road, opposite the Croydon state school, and pointing out that the proceeds from the sale of frontages on this road might be utilised in this direction. After a little discussion the council decided, on the motion of Cr Taylor, to make the matter an order of the day for next council meeting. (1) Oxford Road is now known as Mount Dandenong Road. (2)

Even though Lilydale the town is spelt with three Ls, Lillydale the Shire was spelt with 4 Ls. Cr Taylor, who features in many articles connected to the Mechanics' Institute was Arthur Bertram Taylor, of Meadowbank Farm, Lilydale. He was elected to the South West Riding in 1896 and resigned from Council in November 1909; he was Shire President on two occasions. Arthur was a teacher and had founded Camberwell Grammar School in 1886, and was their first Principal. (3)

As it turned out there protests against the sale of some of the Oxford Road frontage, where it was proposed to reduce the width from 3 chains to one chain. The Minister of Lands also refused to allow the road to be reduced to less than a chain and a half. (4)

Croydon Mechanics' Institute. 

Photographer: F. W. Wuchatsch. A postcard from my collection.

In September 1907, at a function at the Croydon State School,  Mr Taylor announced that arrangements had just been completed for the purchase by the shire council of six acres of land in Croydon for the use of the residents as a recreation reserve (applause), which was a stepping stone to the establishment of cricket, football and tennis grounds, and a Mechanics' Institute. The council was making the people of Croydon a present of six acres of land, which would be placed at the disposal of a committee of management, to be nominated in the course of a few days. He was satisfied, from the energy which Croydon people generally put into their business, that the Mechanics' Institute would soon be an accomplished fact and that it would accommodate a much larger house even than was present that night. (5)

A month later - At a well attended public meeting held at Croydon last night, the shire president, Cr Hughes presiding, Messrs T. H. Gwillam, A. B. Taylor, J. Broadley, Grey-Smith and A. Hall were appointed trustees of three eighths of an acre of the recreation reserve, set apart by the Shire council as a site for a Mechanics' Institute. (6)

It wasn't until July 1908 that the Lillydale Council announced they intended to borrow £1900 for various projects including the purchase of Land for a Mechanics' Institute and Recreation Purposes at Croydon - £103 and Erection of Buildings at Croydon and Ringwood for Mechanics' Institutes (£500 each) - £1000. (7). With the money eventually secured in the October Cr Taylor, moved at the Lillydale Council meeting-  that a prize of three guineas be offered for a competitive design for the mechanics' institutes. Seconded by Kinsella. (8)  In November 1908, the Shire issued an invitation for designs for the Croydon and Ringwood Mechanics' Institutes. (9)

Inviting designs for the Croydon and Ringwood Mechanics' Institutes

The Argus, November 12, 1908  http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article10172205

Ward and Carleton of 341 Collins Street were the Architects selected to design the building. The firm was established in 1897 when Alfred Carleton commenced a partnership with John Vincent Trumbull Ward. (10).  It appears that the Architects did design a building that could be erected under the £500 budget, however due to Mr Gwillam asking for modifications of the original plans the cost had increased to £700. When the Shire Secretary queried this with them they replied to the Council, as reported in the Lilydale Express in April 1909 - 
From Ward and Carleton, architects for Croydon mechanics' institutes, in reply to the secretary's letter regarding the excessive amount of the tenders received for the building, expressing surprise to learn of a price being received for the hall, on the present drawings, for the moderate sum of £700. The fact was evidently overlooked that they had been instructed from time to time, principally through the council's representative, Mr Gwillam, to make certain additions and alterations. The original design would have come well within the amount specified, £500. (11)

Thomas Henry Gwillam is listed in the Electoral Rolls as a Contractor (builder) of Croydon. He was President of the Croydon Progress Association and the Croydon Arbor Day Association, Secretary of the Rifle Club and later Secretary of the Mechanics' Institute. (12)

In May 1909, the Architects advertised for tenders to erect the building. (13)

Tenders for erection of the Croydon Mechanics' Institute

The Age, May 19, 1909 https://trove.nla.gov.au/newspaper/article/196127866

In June, the Healesville Guardian, reported on the results of the tender process and the article also includes a description of the building -
A special meeting of the Lilydale shire council was held last Friday to deal with tenders for the erection of a mechanics' institute and public hall at Croydon. The president and Crs Taylor, Kinsella, Rouget and Hughes were present. Eleven tenders were received and considered. Cr Taylor moved that the tender of T. Rolfe, at £587, be accepted, subject to the alterations in the specifications proving satisfactory, the work to be completed within three months from the signing of the contract. Seconded by Cr Kinsella and carried. 

The amount of the tender is in excess of the funds, £500, available for the purpose out of the loan raised recently for this and other works, but at the ordinary meeting of the council on the previous Monday Cr Taylor said that there was a sum of £100 lying in the Chief Secretary's office which could be appropriated for the purpose, and that there was a prospect of another vote of £100 being obtained next year, so that there would be a substantial sum remaining for furnishing the building. 

Certain alterations and excisions in Messrs Warde & Carleton's original design have been made in order to reduce the cost of building to something like the amount available from the loan. The design as it now stands shows an imposing building of architectural beauty. On either side of the front vestibule entrance are provided ladies and gentlemen's cloak rooms ; next are a lodge room and library, and then the entrance to the main hall, which is 45 x 32ft. The stage extends practically the width of the hall, and outside are the ladies and gentlemen's anterooms. A verandah also runs along one side of the building; and ventilation and lighting are provided for according to the Board of Health regulations. The new building is to be erected on the Croydon reserve, on the original site of the tennis courts. (14)

Croydon townspeople at the newly built Mechanics' Institute, 1909

Image: McGivern, Muriel A History of Croydon (Victor Publishing, 1967), p. 201.

The building was essentially finished in three months and was officially opened on October 27, 1909 by the Premier, Mr Murray, accompanied by Mr. Evans, M.L.C., and Mr. E. H. Cameron, M.L.A. Cr Taylor was also there in his capacity as Shire President together with a large gathering of other officials and towns folk. (15)  A monster bazaar to raise money for the Mechanics' Institute to be held over four days was organised by the ladies of Croydon, who  were working very enthusiastically, and all kinds of novel idea are being worked out, one of which will be a bachelors' stall, to be presided over by bachelors. The Ladies Committee was headed by  Miss Clapperton, with Mrs Yde as secretary.  Much interest was anticipated in the bazaar as special trains will be run from Croydon to Melbourne each evening, and from Lilydale to Croydon on the 27th and 30th inst. (16)

When Croydon was  a country town, c. 1920s/1930s. 

A panorama of Croydon. Photographer: Rose Stereograph Co,

State Library of Victoria image H32492/4016

Croydon was a scenic and popular tourist spot as this 1906 letter to the editor of the Lilydale Express notes -

March On, Croydon! - Through all the changing scenes of life we will find it hard to beat such a picturesque place as Croydon and its surroundings. Taking into consideration the short distance it is from our noble city of Melbourne, and its reasonable railway fares, can you wonder that within two years and a-half the accommodation for boarders has risen from ten to twenty-eight houses? We have had thousands visiting Croydon this summer, and many more are wending their footsteps this way at an early period. Many places which blow their trumpets loud cannot be compared to the delightful hill and dale of this elevated township; the soft, beautiful clear air is in itself vigorating to the over-worked city man, and will restore health to the most delicate of our womenly women. The pretty rippling streams, the shady nooks for book lovers, the pleasant drives, rich dairy produce, beautiful fruit, and many other attractions, make it hard to supersede. It has been said by travellers who have visited many parts of Australia, England, and the Continent, that the restful, peaceful air which prevails at Croydon is unsurpassed; the rising of the glorious sun in early morn and its setting when the shadows of the evening and the residents of the place think that when the station accommodation is looked into, a new brick building, similar to the Brighton one, would not look out of place and would be a great improvement upon the present boxes. The Mechanics' Institute and sports ground are progressing rapidly, and Croydon henceforth will not be Croydon in word, but Croydon in deed. Folk wishing for health, happiness and vigor, which is a great help to prosperity, should reside in Croydon, and by so doing would be well repaid. Yours, &c. "A Lover of Croydon." (17)

Croydon Mechanics' Institute - open for business, December 1909

The Argus, December 25, 1909 https://trove.nla.gov.au/newspaper/article/10756621

Not surprising then, that soon after opening, the Croydon Mechanics' Institute and surrounding  grounds was advertised for let for picnics, parties and Balls. The building was also used for the usual range of activities - a Strawberry Fete in aid of funds for St John's Church of England; performances of the Croydon Comedy Club; a farewell to Mr Hooton, the popular school teacher on his transfer to Mitcham;  a ball to  raise money for the Relief  of Belgium widows and other patriotic functions during the First World War; a concert to celebrate the anniversary of the Presbyterian Church and a bazaar to raise money for St Joseph's Catholic Church. A function held in the hall in October 1919, after the unveiling of the Croydon War Memorial where returned soldiers were 'welcomed home' and presented with an illuminated certificate. (18)

The Mechanics' Institute was also used to show films and the first reference I can find to this was in 1911 when the picture drama, For the Term of his Natural Life was shown in aid of the Football Club. (19).  From the mid-1920s films were presented every Saturday night and in July 1931, Mr Gray Edmeston (20) took over the operation  and installed a sound system and thus could show 'talkies.'  The first 'talkie' film exhibited was The trial of Mary Dugan, with Norma Shearer. (21)  More of Mr Edmeston and his involvement with the hall, later. 

For the Term of his Natural Life film

The Age, May 12, 1911 https://trove.nla.gov.au/newspaper/article/196198772

The building also housed a Library, the first books for which arrived in February 1910, supplied by the Melbourne Public Library as noted by the Lilydale Express - At a meeting of the trustees of the public library held last week a loan of books was granted on the usual terms to the Croydon mechanics' institute committee. (22) In 1944 as the same paper reported that the Croydon Mechanics' Hygienic Library had received a Council grant of £10. (23)  In 1956, a children's library was established in the hall, with free membership to any child. However, there was limited space in the hall with all the other activities it supported and funds were raised to build a new Library. On May 18, 1961 this new Library was officially opened. (24)

As far as the building itself - a caretakers residence was built in 1914, in 1925 the Council granted £40 to go towards renovating and painting the building. The Hall had a board of management who were also guarantors for money lent to them by the Council and in 1928 they were reported as -
F. E. Brown, chairman of board of management of Croydon Mechanics' Hall, forwarding list of names for new guarantors, as follow:— Messrs. F. Arblaster, J. Stuart, A. J. Smith, H. Doods, G. R. Smith, G. Ford. L. Goswinkel, H. Graham, J. T. O'Rourke, F. Turner, J. Bunting, T. Blight. E. Matthews, W. Reed and Captain Robertson.—Adopted. (25)

In 1924, the Croydon branch of the Returned Sailors and Soldiers Imperial League of Australia (R.S. & S.I.L A.)  was established. Muriel McGivern, in her history of Croydon, wrote that  in 1928 they desired to join forces with Hall committee dividing the work and responsibility and in consequence sharing the management and control of both Hall and grounds, including the use of the Hall for their activities. They also desired to alter the name  to Memorial Hall and Mechanics' Institute. After various discussions, including the fact that the Mechanics' Institute constitution required all committee members to also be guarantors and the fact that some of the Committee felt the R.S. & S.I.L A were trying to control the Committee, the amalgamation attempts proved to be  fruitless. (26)

In 1933 the hall was extended and the new works were opened in the December. The Fern Tree Gully News reported - 
On Thursday evening the president of the Lillydale Shire, Cr R. Blair, officially opened the new 

extensions to the much improved Croydon Mechanics' Institute. The sum of £400 had been spent in improvements and extending the hall, the interior of which had been lined with a special sound carrying preparation, while the hall had been extended 12 feet. A new stage 20ft. deep had been erected. The building will now hold an extra 120 people, and 150 new tip chairs have been purchased. In introducing Cr Blair, Mr R.Jansen, president of the hall committee, thanked the citizens of Croydon for their interest and support. He wished to particularly thank Mr A. Pretty, architect, and Mr  Allan, builder, for the splendid way in which the work of extension had been carried out. (27)

A few years later more extensions were added in the Streamlined Moderne style, also designed by Architect Arthur E. Pretty. (28)  These works had been discussed at Council meetings from June 1936 onwards when the issue of renovating and extending the Croydon Mechanics' Hall with the object of converting it into a modern picture theatre was raised and eventually given the go ahead, with a budget of £2000. (29)

The conversion was at the behest of Mr Edmeston, the afore-mentioned the picture show operator, as the existing hall was too small for his shows and patrons were being turned way on some nights. As part of the negotiations Edmeston would have the right to show pictures on a Saturday night and one weekday night for a term of fifteen years, at a rental of £7/10/- per week for the two evenings each week.  (30) In connection with these works, the original committee who also acted as guarantors was annulled, the council took over any financial liabilities and a new committee of councillors and community members was established. (31) Tenders were advertised for the new work  in December 1936. (32)

Tenders invited for the extension of the Croydon Mechanics' Institute

Lilydale Express, December 18, 1936 http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article267488592 

Months later in May 1937 there was a progress report in the Lilydale Express -

The contract was signed at the tender fee by the successful tenderers Messrs Pepper and Chenoweth, of Alphington and Ormond, and a start was made on the same day. The contractor states that the work will be completed in 16 weeks, and that arrangements will be made so that the Coronation Ball in the hall on Wednesday, May 12, will not be interfered with. Temporary cloak rooms will be arranged, and the patrons' comfort at the hall will be assured. 

The plans provide for an imposing brick veneer finished front, with four massive folding glass doors, The hall will be widened 8 feet, and extended 30 feet, with a sloping floor on the new portion. There will be a complete new fibro plaster ceiling throughout, and the inside lining it will be of "Insulite"—a new sound proof material. The new supper room will be 32 feet by 23 feet, and the kitchen will be enlarged to 12 feet by 10 feet. an imposing foyer will contain a curved sweet counter and two modern ticket boxes. The right side entrance will contain the cloak rooms. A new modern bio box will be erected. The new building will present an attractive appearance, and will combine the convenience of picture theatre and a public hall. 

It is estimated that this building will meet the requirements of the district for many years to come, and the hall committee have to be congratulated on the successful outcome of their efforts. The contractor states that it is his intention to use as much local labour as possible on the work, and already three local men have been engaged. (33)

Croydon Hall, 1967.

Image: McGivern, Muriel A History of Croydon (Victor Publishing, 1967), p. 198.

The 'new' hall, which ended up costing £2,300 was officially opened by Cr H. Jeeves on September 9, 1937. The local M.L.A., Colonel Knox and the local M.L.C., Mr Chandler were amongst those present. (34) The month before in August, the name of the building had been changed from the Mechanics' Institute to the Croydon Hall, and this new name was proudly displayed on the new facade, as you can see from the photograph, above.  (35)

On January 14, 1955 Gray Edmeston, along with W.E. Spencer and R. Kirby opened the Croydon Village Drive-in Theatre (36).  However, films were still shown in the Hall as in 1956 it became the venue for the newly established Croydon Film Society. It appears the building was then referred to as the Croydon Theatre or the Croydon Hall Cinema. The Film Society moved to the Mooroolbark Community Centre in 1991, and are now based at the Boronia Cinemas. (37) 

Croydon Film Society at the Croydon Theatre (the Hall)

The Age, January 30, 1965, p. 40 from newspapers.com

The building continued to be used for community activities until 1991. Here is a random selection of events held at the Croydon Hall - An exhibition to celebrate the Shire centenary in November 1964;  an Art & Craft Show in December 1974; Sewerage was connected to the building in 1979; the Croydon Community School used it as a venue for their performance, The Frogs by Aristophanes in November 1981;  the Croydon Horticultural Society held a Spring Show in October 1985; in 1987 it was the venue for the auction of seventeen Main Street retail  properties; The Angels played there in December 1990; there was a Garden Show there in March 1991. (38)

Centenary of local government  in 1964 at Croydon Hall

The Age, November 16, 1964, p. 11 from newspapers.com

Art & Craft Exhibition at Croydon Hall in 1974

The Age, December 14, 1974, p. 19 from newspapers.com

Auction of Main Street properties in the Hall in 1987

The Age August 8, 1987, p. 82 from newspapers.com

From 1992, the building, became a Youth Centre, known as EVs and is used by thousands of young people each year as a meeting place, a source of information and education and as an entertainment venue (39). It is operated by the City of Maroondah. 

115 years after it opened the Croydon Mechanics' Institute is still used for community purposes. Whilst I am grateful the building is preserved, it is shame that the three rectangular window at the front of the building have been replaced by a bland square window and the non-original parapet on the verandah partially obscures the Croydon Hall lettering. All that remains now is to find out why it is called EVs. 

EVs Youth Centre - you can still see the original 1909 building behind the 1937 brick extension.

Image: Suzanne Burville 

https://vhd.heritagecouncil.vic.gov.au/index.php/places/contributions/image/972

Acknowledgement -The entry on the Croydon Mechanics' Institute in the book  These Walls Speak Volumes: a history of Mechanics' Institutes in Victoria by Pam Baragwanath and Ken James (published by the authors in 2015) was a useful starting point for this post.

Trove list - I have created a list of articles on Trove, related to the Mechanics' Institute and some of the people involved with it. Access it here.

Footnotes

(1) Box Hill Reporter, November 3, 1905, see here.

(2) https://www.maroondah.vic.gov.au/Explore/About-our-City/History-of-Maroondah/History-of-Croydon

(3)  Arthur Taylor - See various articles in my Trove list, here; including his obituary in The Argus, October 22, 1938, see here. Also the Camberwell Grammar website     https://www.cgs.vic.edu.au/our-school/our-history

(4) Lilydale Express, October 19, 1906, see here.

(5) Lilydale Express, September 20, 1907, see here.

(6) Lilydale Express, October 11, 1907, see here.

(7) Lilydale Express, July 10, 1908, see here.

(8) Lilydale Express, October 2, 1908, see here.

(9) The Argus, November 12, 1908, see here.

(10) Death notice of John Ward - The Argus, July 29, 1927,  see here; Obituary of Alfred Carleton - The Age, February 21, 1936, see here.

(11) Lilydale Express, April 30, 1909, see here.

(12) Thomas Henry Gwillam, died 1930 - See various articles in my Trove list, here.

(13) The Age, May 19, 1909, see here.  

(14) Healesville Guardian, June 4 1909, see here.

(15) The Age, October 28, 1909, see here; The Argus, October 28, 1909, see here.

(16) Box Hill Reporter, September 3, 1909, see here;  Punch, October 21, 1909, see here.

(17) Lilydale Express, April 20, 1906, see here.

(18) See various articles in my Trove list, here.

(19) The Age, May 12, 1911, see here

(20) Gray Denison Edmeston, the son of Harold and Elizabeth Edmeston.  Harold was, as noted in the Electoral Rolls, a Musician and sometimes listed as a Professor of Music. In the early 1920s they operated a guesthouse, The Marlborough, Fernshaw Road, Healesville. Gray married Carol Segerberg in 1935 and he died at the age of 87 in August 1996

The Age, August 28, 1996, p. 44. newspapers.com

(21) McGivern, Muriel A History of Croydon (Victor Publishing, 1967), p. 204. Also Cinema Record, Issue 24, June 1999 https://www.cinemarecord.org.au/read/cr24/files/basic-html/page9.html

(22) Lilydale Express, February 4, 1910, see here.

(23) Lilydale Express, December 1, 1944, see here.

(24) McGivern, op. cit., p. 210.

(25) See various articles in my Trove list, here and Lilydale Express, April 27, 1928, see here.

(26) McGivern, op. cit., pp. 201-202.

(27) Fern Tree Gully News, December 15, 1933, see here.

(28) Streamlined Moderne description comes from  https://vhd.heritagecouncil.vic.gov.au/index.php/places/184815/download-report . Arthur Pretty - https://www.builtheritage.com.au/dua_pretty.html

(29) See various articles in my Trove list, here

(30) Lilydale Express, December 4, 1936, see here.

(31) Ibid

(32) Lilydale Express, December 18, 1936, see here.  

(33) Lilydale Express, May 14, 1937, see here.

(34) Sun News-Pictorial, September 11, 1937, see here.

(35) McGivern, op. cit., p. 204.

(36) McGivern, op. cit., p. 162.

(37) Croydon Film Society website https://www.croydonfilms.org.au/about/ Cinema Treasurers website https://cinematreasures.org/theaters/31890 - has links to interior photos.

(38) These were found in The Age on newspapers.com

(39) Music Victoria website https://www.musicvictoria.com.au/directory-item/evs-youth-centre/  The 1992 date comes from the first reference I could find in The Age on newspapers.com