Miss Fanny Dango, Mr Sam Mackay and Melville Park, Berwick

This is the story of Miss Fanny Dango and her husband Samuel MacKay and the property Melville Park, now called Edrington, in Berwick.

Miss Fanny Dango

State Library of Victoria Image H85.73/6

On November 29, 1910 the actress and comedienne, Miss Fanny Dango, married the Australian 'squatter', Sam MacKay, in London. Samuel Peter MacKay was the owner of Melville Park. (1)

Sam, 45 years old, had recently been divorced from his 43 year old wife, Florence Gertrude (nee Taylor) MacKay. The Age reported on the report case in August 1910 -
Samuel Peter Mackay, 45, of Melville Park, Berwick, grazier, petitioned for a divorce from Florence Gertrude Mackay, 43, on the ground of  misconduct with H. Mulvey, chauffer, said to reside at Carlingford, Sydney, and Donald S. Bain, of Berwick, estate agent, who were joined as co-respondents.

The parties were married at Guildford, W.A., on 5th July, 1892, and there are two children of the marriage. Mr. Duffy, K.C., and Mr. L. S. Woolf (instructed by Messrs. Blake and Riggall) appeared for petitioner. The other parties were not represented, although Bain had filed an answer denying misconduct. Mr. Duffy said that they did not intend to devote attention to the case of Bain, but had ample, evidence of the alleged misconduct with Mulvey.

Petitioner gave evidence that from Western Australia his wife and he came to Victoria, where he 
bought an estate at Berwick. It was customary for him to visit the West on business connected with property there, and on returning to Melbourne in August, 1909, he came into possession of a letter. He took it to his wife, and when he came into the room she said to him, "What are you looking at me like that for?" He answered that he had seen a letter from which he understood that she was intimate with Mulvey, their chauffeur. She made certain admissions. He then told her that he had heard she was corresponding with Bain. She made another admission.

His Honor granted a decree nisi, with coats against co-respondents. (2)

Donald Bain, an estate agent, was the son of Robert and Susan Bain, who owned the Border Inn at Berwick. (3)  As Sam married Fanny a few months later in the November, they were clearly acquainted whilst the divorce proceedings were being heard.

Report of the marriage between Sam MacKay and Fanny Dango

The Argus, December 1, 1910 http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article10481561

As noted in the newspaper report of the divorce, Sam had married Florence Gertrude Taylor in Western Australia in 1892.  Florence was from Yangdine, near York in Western Australia. They had three children - Elsie Gertrude (born 1893 in Roebourne, W.A., died in Melbourne in 1963); Marjorie (born and died 1895) and Samuel Keith (1900 - 1924). You can read about the family here, in an article entitled The Tragedies of the MacKays in the Sunday Times, July 27, 1924. Keith had recently died, on July 16, in an aeroplane accident at near Port Headland when the article was written. (4)

Obituary of Keith MacKay

Geraldton Guardian, July 17, 1924 http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article67284581

Sam had died a year before his son Keith on  May 11, 1923. As noted in his obituary, published in Pastoral Review, June 16 1923 (5) Sam MacKay, was born in 1864 in Mount Gambier. He left school at 13 and did some cattle droving, until he decided to move to northern Western Australia where he worked in the pearling industry. Later on his father and two uncles purchased the one million acre Mundabullangana Station, east of Roebourne. By 1903, when his father died, he bought the Station outright. In 1905, Sam purchased Melville Park at Berwick from James Gibb, who was a Shire of Berwick Councillor for 30 years and the Federal Member for Flinders from 1903 to 1906. His wife, Mary Gibb (nee Paterson) owned the Tulliallan property in Cranbourne from 1904 until 1912 (6)  MacKay's obituary concludes with  Although the late Mr. Mackay was a well-known pastoralist, he was better known as a breeder and lover of thoroughbred horses, and his colours were a familiar sight on the chief racecourses in Australia. (7)

Samuel MacKay

Image: https://oa.anu.edu.au/obituary/mackay-samuel-peter-638

Melville Park, when purchased by MacKay in March 1905 for the cost of £20,000, was described as being of 830 acres of rich agricultural land on the main Gippsland line, and is considered to be the finest estate within 100 miles of Melbourne. (8)  It had a number of outbuildings and a brick cottage said to date from the 1860s, when the property was owned by Captain Robert Gardiner, the original owner.  (9).

The 1860s brick cottage at Melville Park/Edrington.

Photographer: John T. Collins, taken in 1985. State Library of Victoria image H2010.1/461.

However, Samuel and and his family did not immediately move to the property. In March 1907 it was reported that -

Messrs. W. S. Keast and Co. report having sold, on account of Mr. Parker, his well-known property, Clover Hills Estate, at Berwick, adjoining the famous Melville Park, and containing 450 acres, with a frontage of 1 mile to the Cardinia Greek, to Mr. Samuel P. Mackay, of Western Australia (the owner of Melville Park), for £5376. It is the intention of Mr. Mackay to unite there two properties and make his home in Victoria. (10)  Having increased his land holdings,  the next step was to build a house befitting his status and thus around September 1907 he commissioned Architect Rodney Alsop to design a new two-storey brick house for Melville Park. (11)

Tenders called for the construction of Sam MacKay's mansion

The Age, September 24, 1907 https://trove.nla.gov.au/newspaper/article/205000119

The mansion, shown below, is now listed on the Victorian Heritage Register, where it is described as a two-storey red brick example of the English vernacular style with some reference to the Queen Anne style. It has also been described as being in the Arts and Crafts Style. (12)  After their marriage,  Sam and Fanny lived at Melville Park for a short period, and it was during this time their son Peter Angus MacKay was born on September 12, 1911. (13)  

Melville Park (now Edrington) built for Sam MacKay.

Photographer: John T. Collins, taken in May 1985. State Library of Victoria image H2010.1/453.

Melville Park (now Edrington) built for Sam MacKay.

Photographer: John T. Collins, taken in May 1985. State Library of Victoria image H2010.1/455

In December 1911, Sam MacKay purchased Camelot at 85 Alma Road, St Kilda for £7500. This house was built in stages from the 1850s and was a mansion of 18 rooms when Sam purchased the property, who renamed the property, Strathnaver.  Sam and Fanny sold the property in 1922. Camelot or Strathnaver was demolished, possibly in the 1960s. (14) 

Camelot/Strathnaver - Sam MacKay's mansion in Alma Road, St Kilda.

Photographer: John T. Collins, taken in February 1964.

 State Library of Victoria image H98.251/8

MacKay sold Melville Park, consisting then of 1,267 acres for £45,000 in November 1912 to Andrew Chirnside. (15)  Andrew and Winifred (nee Sumner) renamed Melville Park to Edrington, after a family property in Scotland. Andrew and Winifred Chirnside died within three months of each other in 1934, Andrew on April 17 and Winifred on July 13 (16) and 

Mrs Chirnside left real estate valued at £17,045 and personal property valued at £38,382 to her nephews, Rupert Ryan and Noel Sumner Nash, and her nieces, Ethel Marion Sumner Casey and Doris Osborne, subject to gifts of £1,000 to her maid, Ethel Jarrett, and of jewellery to her adopted daughter, Mrs. Alec Waugh, formerly Miss Joan Chirnside. (17)

The Edrington Estate, c. 1938 when it was under the owner ship of Colonel Rupert Ryan and his sister, Maie Casey. In the centre of the photo is the 1860s cottage. Many of the trees are extant.

Photographer: Charles Daniel Pratt/Airspy. State Library of Victoria http://handle.slv.vic.gov.au/10381/20235

It appears that Colonel Ryan and his sister, Ethel Marion Sumner Casey, better known as Maie Casey purchased the property from their cousins. Maie married Richard Gavin Gardiner Casey on June 24, 1926; he was a politician and diplomat and received a Life Peerage in January 1960, becoming Lord Casey. Edrington was the Casey's country home. Lord Casey died on June 16, 1976 and Lady Casey on January 20, 1983. Edrington was the sold and is now part of  a retirement village. The City of Casey is named after Lord Casey. (18)

Miss Fanny Dango from the programme The Catch of the Season 

State Library of Victoria http://handle.slv.vic.gov.au/10381/4220828

Who was exotically named Fanny Dango? Fanny was born on October 20, 1878 as Fanny Rudge, to Henry and Elizabeth Rudge of Birmingham. She had four sisters who also became actresses - Letitia (stage name Letty Lind), Sarah (stage name Millie Hylton), Elizabeth (stage name Adelaide Astor) and Lydia (stage name Lydia Flopp) and two brothers who followed their father's career as a brass founder.

The Association of British Theatre Technicians website had (19) the following information about Fanny and her sisters -
The Rudge sisters, professionally known as Letty Lind (1861-1923), Millie Hylton (1868-1920), Adelaide Astor (1874-1951), Lydia Flopp (1877-1962) and Fanny Dango (1878-1972), all hailing from Birmingham, were primarily dancers but later developed their singing talents, working in pantomime, variety and music hall, musical comedy and burlesque, often at the Gaiety Theatre in the 1880s and 90s. Letty Lind was in the last George Edwardes burlesques (at the Gaiety) and the first George Edwardes musical comedies (at Daly’s); she also had a professional and personal relationship with the dramatic author and entertainer Howard Paul (1830-1905) and was the mother of his illegitimate son, she later had an enduring relationship with the 3rd Earl of Durham (1855-1928) and another son. Millie Hylton had a successful career in variety as a male impersonator and as a principal boy in pantomime, but later appeared in legitimate theatre and was the mother of actress Millie Sim (b.1895). Adelaide Astor was married to George Grossmith, Jnr. and had a son, George Grossmith (manager) and a daughter, Ena Grossmith (b.1896, actress). Lydia Flopp had a briefer career than her sisters and an unhappy marriage. Fanny Dango followed her sisters onto the London stage and ended up a wealthy woman in Australia. The Rudge sisters were cousins of music hall artist, Millie Lindon (1877-1940) who was married at one time to T.E. Dunville (1868-1924), however they divorced long before his sad and dramatic death and she later re-married three times.

There is more information about Fanny in a two-part article by Bob Ferris, Fanny Dango -The Soubrette’s Stage Career in Australia on the Theatre Heritage Australia website (20)

Fanny Dango was a nascent actress and an exceptional dancer with appearances in several pantomimes on the London and Provincial theatre stage. Her catalogue of pantomime performances is impressive from her debut at the Prince of Wales Theatre in her home city of Birmingham in December 1894 (shortly after her 16th birthday) with a small part as ‘Chinese Dolly’ in Dick Whittington. From 1901 to 1905, she appeared in five successive Christmas pantomimes: Gulliver’s Travels at the Avenue Theatre, London, 1901–1902 (as Glumdalclitch); Dick Whittington at the London Hippodrome, 1902–1903 (as Alice, opposite the Dick of Ruth Lytton), Santa Claus Junior at the Theatre Royal, Newcastle, 1903–1904 (as See Mee); in Dick Whittington, Royal Court Theatre, Liverpool, 1904–1905 (as Alice, opposite the Dick of Hetty King); and Aladdin, Theatre Royal, Birmingham, 1905–1906 (as Princess So Shi, opposite the Aladdin of Ada Reeve).

Fanny Dango was vivacious and a charismatic young actress and danced exquisitely. J.C. Williamson saw the early promise of her becoming a favourite of Australian theatre patrons and he engaged her in England to play the part of Peggy Sabine in the Royal Comic Opera’s production of The Dairymaids.5 This was some achievement for Fanny to play the part which had previously been performed by Australian-born Carrie Moore with outstanding success in the 1906 Apollo Theatre production.

Fanny sailed to Australia on the P & O RMS Mongolia which left Marseilles on 19 July 1907 and arrived in Melbourne on 26 August, leaving the same day for Sydney to commence rehearsals. She made her Australian debut in The Dairymaids as Peggy Sabine and the chief Sandow girl at Her Majesty’s Theatre Melbourne, on 7 September 1907 and later in Sydney, opening at Her Majesty’s some four months later, on 1 February 1908.

On her debut performances in both Melbourne and Sydney, Fanny was variously described by the fawning press as a ‘bright little creature’; ‘piquant’, ‘graceful and clever’; ‘vivacious’; ‘dainty, petite and sprightly’, and [one who] ‘acts and sings so coquettishly’. Together with her blazing red gold tresses, Fanny’s favouritism with local audiences was assured. (21)

Other shows in Australia in which Fanny performed included The Girls of Gottenberg, The Lady Dandies, The Prince of Pilsen, The Catch of the Season, The Red Mill, The Belle of New York, Jack and Jill and The Duchess of Dantzic. (22) Her farewell performance was on September 15, 1910 and in October she sailed for London (23) where as we saw, on November 29, she married Samuel McKay.

Fanny died July 15, 1972 at the age of 91. She is buried at the Brighton Cemetery, with her husband Sam; her son Peter who died December 12, 1951 at the age of 40 and Sam’s daughter, Elsie, who died February 6, 1963, aged 67. (24)  

Peter Mackay was married on February 20, 1933 in St Moritz, Switzerland to Mary O'Neill of Paris. At the time of his engagement the Dandenong Journal published an article about Peter, which included some interesting information - 

Mr. Peter Mackay, only son of Mrs. Mackay, London, and the late Mr. Samuel Mackay, of Rock House, Kyneton, has announced his engagement at St. Moritz, Switzerland, to Miss Mary O’Niell, whose father is well-known in racing circles. Mr Peter Mackay is the heir to a large fortune built up with pastoral possessions in Australia by his father, the late Mr. Sam. Mackay, who died about ten years ago (writes the “Herald.”)

Mrs. Mackay and her son have lived abroad for a long time. They returned to Australia toward the end of last year, and Mr. Peter celebrated his 21st birthday in Melbourne with much social gaiety. On  attaining his majority he received part of his father’s wealth, but the entire fortune will not come into his possession until he is 25. A friend of the family hazards the opinion that Mr. Peter Mackay will be worth at least a quarter of a million.

In addition to the fortune bequeathed Mr. Peter by his father, he has come into more money through the estate of his step-brother, the late Mr. Keith Mackay, of Bucklaud Station, Northam, Western Australia, who was killed in an aeroplane accident in Western Australia. The late Mr. Sam Mackay’s biggest property was Mundabullanganah Station, in the north-west of Western Australia. He also owned “Rock House,” Kyneton, the early home of Sir Stanley Argyle, where many bright parties were given by him and his wife in the hunting season. He was the owner of that famous racehorse, Radnor, winner of many classic races. also entertained lavishly at their town house, “Strathnaver,” Alma road, St. Kilda. (25)

Not sure how long the marriage lasted but when Peter enlisted in the Australian Army in June 1940, his mother was listed as his next of kin, not  his wife. Peter was discharged less than a year later in April 1941 as medically unfit for service. His occupation on enlistment was Company Director. He was twice charged with drunkenness during his war service and in May 1947 he lost his licence for drunken driving, at the time he was living in View Street, Hawthorn, the same address where he was living where he died. It does appear he had an 'issue' with alcohol. (26)

Marriage of Peter MacKay to Mary O'Neill

The Argus, February 23, 1933 http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article4526441

Elsie MacKay was an actress, who had married British and Hollywood film star, Lionel Atwill in February 1920.  She was his second wife and after their divorce, he married Louise, the divorced wife of General Douglas MacArthur. Elsie and Lionel divorced in 1925 due to her 'relationship' with fellow actor, Max Montesole. Elsie and Max married in 1933 in England and they were still together in 1942 when he passed away at the age of 52 in Perth. Elsie married for the third time to James Stanley Smith in 1957 in Fremantle, Western Australia. He  was born in England in 1906, had served in the Australian Army in World War Two and died in Perth in 1969.   Sam Mackay's first wife, Florence, died in Perth on May 28, 1945 at the age of 80 and she left her estate of  £10,640 to Elsie. (27)

Elsie Montesole inherits her mother's estate.

Perth Daily News August 27, 1945 http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article78775939

Acknowledgement: I am indebted to Bob Flavell of the Edrington Park History Group for telling me about Fanny Dango. This is an expanded version with new material, of a post on Fanny Dango which I wrote and researched in 2018, which appears on my work blog, Casey Cardinia Links to our Past.  

Footnotes

(1) The Herald, November 30, 1910, see here; The Argus, December 1, 1910, see here.  The birth certificate of their son, Peter, lists their marriage date as November 28, 1910.

(2) The Age, August 9, 1910, see here.

(3) Donald Bain was the son of Robert Hudson Bain, who had established the Berwick Inn/Border Hotel at Berwick in 1857. He married Susan Stewart in 1859  and they had the following children -Catherine (born 1860 - died October 1900 - known as Kate, married John Murray Leggatt in 1878)

Jane Hudson (born 1861 - known as Jean, she is the Mrs W.S Withers listed in the death notice. Jean married Walter Seward Withers in 1886, they are listed in the 1911 English Census, living in the town of Goodworth Clatford, near Andover, in Hampshire and she died in June 1926 at Andover)
Margaret Anne Stewart (born 1863, known as Maggie, married Charles Allen Champion in November 1889 and died in March 1891)
James (born 1865 - died January 1908)
Robert (born 1867 - died January 1902)
Harry Wilson (born 1869 - died April 1902)
George Alexander (born 1871 - ?)
Edwin Clarence (born 1873 - died 1875)
Susan Stewart (born 1875 - died 1876)
McCulloch Stewart (born 1877 - died January 1908)
Donald Stewart (born 1880 - died January 1937).

Donald Bain died February 24, 1887 at the age of 56; and Susan on June 26, 1908 at the age of 69. The Hotel was owned by the Bain family until 1909.

(4) Western Australia and Victoria Indexes to the Births, Deaths and Marriages; Perth Sunday Times, July 27, 1924, see here;  The Geraldton Guardian, July 17, 1924, see here,  had a report of Keith's accident

(5) Obituary republished here https://oa.anu.edu.au/obituary/mackay-samuel-peter-638 

(6) James and Mary Gibb and Tulliallan, I have written about them here   https://victoriaspast.blogspot.com/2022/11/the-property-known-as-ravenhurst-then.html  Mary Gibb had previously been married to George Brown, of Inveresk, Berwick - I have written about them here https://victoriaspast.blogspot.com/2021/12/the-arthur-streeton-painting-of-brown.html She was the sister of the artist, John Ford Paterson. As a matter of interest, George Brown's first wide was Margaret Stewart, the sister of Susan Bain (footnote 3)

(7) https://oa.anu.edu.au/obituary/mackay-samuel-peter-638 

(8) The Age, March 25, 1905, see here.

(9) Victorian Heritage Database - https://vhd.heritagecouncil.vic.gov.au/places/148 and https://vhd.heritagecouncil.vic.gov.au/places/62899

(10) The Leader, March 2, 1907, see here.

(11) The Victorian Heritage Database date the construction as 1906 or 1906-1907, however it must have been 1907-1908 as the tender for the construction was advertised in September 1907, The Age, September 24, 1907, see here.  Rodney Alsop - Australian Dictionary of Biography  - https://adb.anu.edu.au/biography/alsop-rodney-howard-5007

(12) See footnote 9.

(13) Peter's birth certificate. I did wonder if Fanny actually lived at Berwick, however Table Talk of December 21, 1911 - who reported on the social activities of Melbourne 'Society' noted that - Mr. Samuel Mackay, of "Melville Park," Berwick, has purchased "Camelot," Alma-road, East St. Kilda, the beautiful residence of Mr. Ernerst Brookes, who shortly joins Mrs. Brookes and family in England. The purchase money is said to be £7500. Mrs. Mackay will be remembered as Miss Fanny Dango, and, with her husband, has been living at Berwick since her marriage. (Table Talk, December 21, 1911, see here)

(14) Table Talk, December 21, 1911, see here Photos of the interior of Camelot - The Australasian, December 9, 1911, see here. I was unaware that  Samuel MacKay purchased Camelot, until I read about in the St Kilda Historical Society newsletter of December 2024, which provided information on the history of the building.  Samuel MacKay placed Strathnaver up for auction in June 1922, see advertisement here The Argus, June 14, 1922, see here and his probate papers list Fanny's address as Brentwood, St Kilda Road, St Kilda, see also The Herald, April 24, 1923, here. Don't have an exact date for demolition, but it was still there in 1958

Strathnaver for sale in 1958

The Age May 31, 1958, p. 44, from newspapers.com

(15) The Age, November 16, 1912, see here; Clearing sale of Melville Park stud Ayrshire cattle - South Bourke & Mornington Journal, November 14, 1912, see here.

(16) Obituary of Andrew Chirnside - The Argus, April 18, 1934, see here; Winifred Chirnside's will - Shepparton Advertiser, October 5, 1934, see here.

(17) Theodatus Sumner, the brother of Winifred Chirnside, was married to Sarah  Peers. They had - Mary Maud, married to Albert Nash, of Ballarto, Cranbourne; Annie who was married to James Grice, who was the brother of Richard Grice, land owner in Berwick and Cranbourne, after whom Grice's Road is named and Alice, married Charles Ryan - the parents of Lady Casey and Colonel Ryan. Doris Osborne, listed in the will, is the daughter of Winifred's sister Kate (Mrs James Osborne).

(18) Australian Dictionary of Biography - https://adb.anu.edu.au/biography/casey-richard-gavin-gardiner-9706 and https://adb.anu.edu.au/biography/casey-lady-ethel-marian-maie-12296 

(19) Association of British Theatre Technicians - When I wrote the original post in May 2018 this link to the information about the Rudge sisters was working but when I checked it in May 2021, it was no longer working and still isn't - http://www.abtt.org.uk/event/the-british-music-hall-society-study-group/

(20) Theatre Heritage Australia website https://theatreheritage.org.au/ - Bob Ferris has a two part article on Fanny Dango, Fanny Dango -The Soubrette’s Stage Career in Australia - see footnote 21 for the links

(21) https://theatreheritage.org.au/on-stage-magazine/profiles/item/936-fanny-dango-the-soubrettes-stage-career-in-australia-part-1 

(22) https://theatreheritage.org.au/on-stage-magazine/profiles/item/936-fanny-dango-the-soubrettes-stage-career-in-australia-part-1 and https://theatreheritage.org.au/on-stage-magazine/profiles/item/960-fanny-dango-the-soubrettes-stage-career-in-australia-part-2 

(23) https://theatreheritage.org.au/on-stage-magazine/profiles/item/960-fanny-dango-the-soubrettes-stage-career-in-australia-part-2

(24) Brighton Cemetorians database https://www.brightoncemetorians.org.au/

(25) The Argus, February 23, 1933, see here;  Dandenong Journal, November 2, 1933, see here

(26) WW2 Attestation papers at the National Archives of Australia https://recordsearch.naa.gov.au/SearchNRetrieve/Interface/ViewImage.aspx?B=4611744; The Herald, May 9, 1947, see here.

(27) Short reports of Elsie MacKay's career - Perth Daily News, February 25, 1920, see here and Sydney Sun, June 5, 1921, see here; Marriage of Elsie MacKay to Lionel Atwill, Perth Daily News,  February 25, 1920, see here; Lionel Atwill's marriages - Daily Telegraph, April 24, 1946, see here; Atwill/MacKay divorce Sydney Sun, December 18, 1925, see here; Marriage of Elsie and Max - England & Wales, Civil Registration Marriage Index, 1916-2005 on Ancestry.com; Death of Max Montesole The Age, September 19, 1942, see here; James Stanley Smith - information from familysearch.org and WW2 Nominal Rolls.  Death of Mrs Florence MacKay, Perth Daily News August 27, 1945, see here.  

Death notice of Peter MacKay. Who is Zena? The St Kilda Historical Society newsletter of December 2024, notes her name as Zena Hayes, with whom he had an enduring partnership.

The Herald, December 14, 1951 http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article247846844

Elsie's death notice - no mention of husbands.

The Age, February 8, 1963. p.17 from newspapers.com

Elsie's Probate notice, where her surname is also listed as Smith. .

The Age, March 8, 1963, p. 23 from newspapers.com

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.