VCHA 2013 Entries List - Royal Historical Society of Victoria

Victorian 

Community 

History 

Awards 

List of 2013 Entries 

Presented by Public Record Office Victoria & Royal Historical Society of Victoria 

For more information go to the Royal Historical Society of Victoria website www.historyvictoria.org.au

2013 Victorian 

Community History 

Awards 

Established in 1997, the Victorian Community History Awards are held annually to recognise the contributions 

made by Victorians in the preservation of the State’s fascinating history. 

Presented in partnership by Public Record Office Victoria and the Royal Historical Society of Victoria, the Awards 

celebrate the people involved in community history projects who are dedicated to telling local stories which help all 

Victorians to understand their past. 

History can be interpreted and shared in a range of formats with the aim of reaching and enriching a broad 

audience. This is reflected through the diversity of the award categories which encourage nominations for 

innovative projects by groups and individuals across the State. 

The 2013 Victorian Community History Awards ceremony was held on Monday 21 October in The Deakin Edge, 

Federation Square. 

2013 Categories: 

Victorian Community History Award $5,000 

This award recognises the most outstanding community history project submitted in any category. 

History Publication Award $2,000 

For a non-fiction publication or e-publication on Victorian history which could include a biography or a story of 

social, urban, institutional, regional or cultural history. 

Local History – Small Publication Award $1,500 

For the best small publication which could include, but not limited to, a published booklet, journal, zine or 

newsletter article which features Victorian local, cultural or social history. 

Local History Project Award $2,000 

This award recognises activities that enhance access to records of significance to local communities. The project 

should increase access, awareness and participation in history on a local or community level including, but not 

limited to, digitising, indexing, cataloguing, resources and original research. 

Young Historians Award (15 – 18 years) $500 

This award encourages secondary school aged students to engage with local history, increase historical 

understanding and discover more about Victoria’s history. Students may explore local community and identities, 

significant events and heritage topics. 

Collaborative Community History Award $2,000 

This award recognises the best community collaborative work which involves significant contribution from several 

individuals, groups or historical societies. 

Multimedia History Award $2,000 

For the best presentation of history which uses non-print media. This project can include, but is not limited to, 

multimedia exhibitions, radio, CD/DVD, phone apps, website, digital video/podcasts or online applications. 

Historical Interpretation Award $2,000 

This award recognises unique formats of historical representation. Applicants are encouraged to submit history 

related experiences told through physical exhibitions, artistic interpretation, history walks and tours. 

Judge’s Special Prize $1,000 

This prize is awarded at the discretion of the Judges for outstanding work in any category. 

For more information go to the Royal Historical Society of Victoria website www.historyvictoria.org.au 

2



Awards 

Public Record Office Victoria 

Victorian Archives Centre 

99 Shiel Street 

North Melbourne 

10am – 4.30pm Monday to Friday 

(and the second and last Saturday of the month) 

03 9348 5600 

www.prov.vic.gov.au 

Royal Historical Society of Victoria 

239 A’Beckett Street 

Melbourne 

10am – 4pm Monday to Friday 

03 9326 9288 

www.historyvictoria.org.au 

List of 2013 Entries 

Compiled by Janice Haynes, Project Officer, Victorian Community History Awards 

This list of the 2013 Victorian Community History awards entries, past winners and details of the 2013 

winners can be downloaded from the Royal Historical Society of Victoria website www.historyvictoria.org.au 

This is a listing of all the entries in the 2013 Victorian Community History Awards in alphabetical order by the 

author’s name or applicant organisation (underlined). 

The descriptions of the works are those provided by the entrants and are reproduced with their permission. 

Every attempt has been made to present these entries correctly and apologies are made for any errors or 

omissions. 

The categories to which the entry was submitted are not listed. 

All these works were completed, published, launched in the period from 1 st July 2012 to 30 th June 2013. 

Some Entrants have their publications for sale through the Royal Historical Society of Victoria Bookshop 

located at 239 A’Beckett Street, Melbourne, opening hours 10am – 4pm Monday to Friday. 

For enquiries about the 2014 Victorian Community History Awards contact the RHSV on 03 9326 9288. 

Entry forms will be available for download from www.historyvictoria.org.au from June 2014. 

3



Awards 

Amy Stella Dolphin: her life and heritage 

By Jennifer Jane Acopian 

(2nd edition October 2012) The publication traces my grandmother's 

early life in Chewton and Yackandandah in the late 1800's, her married 

life in Geelong, and her direct descendants. It also examines her 

extended families (on both maternal and paternal sides) who were 

significant players in the central Victorian goldfields and early Melbourne. 

The Narrow Gauge - Whitfield - Gembrook - Crowes - 

Walhalla 

Nick Anchen, Sierra Publishing 

In the post-depression years of the early 1900's four experimental 

narrow gauge (2ft 6in) railways were built in some of Victoria's most 

rugged areas. Through the King Valley to Whitfield, the Otway Ranges to 

Crowes, the Gippsland hills to Walhalla and the Dandenongs to 

Gembrook (Puffing Billy) these fascinating railways portrayed the very 

essence of Australia's pioneering spirit. 

"Our Schools 1912 - 2012": Celebrating the first one 

hundred years of public education in Benalla 

Benalla College 

"Our Schools 1912 - 2012" was produced as part of the September 

2012 Centenary Celebrations of State Secondary education in Benalla. 

While led by a team of five former and current teachers, the truly 

collaborative nature of the project is outlined in the Acknowledgments 

section of the book on page 136. 

Melbourne to Bendigo Railway 1862 – 2012 

Bendigo Historical Society 

The project was to write a book to tell the story of the coming of the 

railway from Melbourne to Bendigo in 1862. The book was published 

in October 2012 to celebrate the 150th anniversary of this event. 

4



Awards 

Petitions of the People www.brac.vic.gov.au 

Bendigo Regional Archives Centre (BRAC) 

The Petitions of the People digitisation project captures the opinions of 

10,977 petitioners, within 273 petitions created between 1870 - 1899. 

This ongoing online project allows researchers to find the names and 

addresses (sometimes occupations) of petitioners, and see what issues 

were important to Bendigo and district residents in the nineteenth 

century. 

The Girls in Grey 

Carolyn Bock & Helen Hopkins, The Shift Theatre 

World War One is dynamically re-imagined in this compelling fusion of 

history and contemporary theatre. Touring regional Victoria in March and 

April 2013 'The Girls in Grey' is a stunning and widely accessible new 

Australian play, that brings to dramatic life the story of three Australian 

Army nurses. 

Water Races and Tin Mines of the Toora District 

By Coleen Bower 

The book describes the history of tin mining between the Franklin and 

Agnes Rivers in South Gippsland at Granite Bar and Upper Toora, from 

the 1870's to the 1930's. Three water races including two tunnels were 

constructed to supply water for tin sluicing and dredging activities. 

The Borough and Its People: Port Melbourne 1839 - 

1939 

By Margaret & Graham Bride, Port Melbourne Historical & Preservation 

Society 

This project traces the social development of the community of Port 

Melbourne over the first one hundred years. The authors draw on the 

resources of the Port Melbourne Historical and Preservation Society to 

provide a book in a format to appeal to the general reader. 

5



Awards 

Honouring Those Who Served for King & Country 

Brighton Cemetorians Inc. 

The Brighton Cemetorians March 2013 (Issue 31) Journal dedicated to 

stories of the unsung heroes of WW1 and the effect it had on their 

families. 

‘Strong Roots, Resilient Communities’ History and 

Stories from Buloke 

Buloke Shire 

A collaborative project involving the ten communities of the Buloke 

Shire which resulted in a travelling exhibition of historical objects, 

photographs and stories. 

Charlton: Celebrating 150 Years 

By Carolyn Olive and Grace Cadzow 

Publication exploring the history of the township of Charlton and the 

surrounding district. Published to coincide with Charlton's 150th 

anniversary celebration held at Easter 2013, the book is printed in colour 

and contains 344 pages of history, stories, reminiscences and over 500 

photographs. 

Black Gold: Aboriginal People on the Goldfields of 

Victoria, 1850 - 1870 

David 'Fred' Cahir 

This book provides a detailed examination of Aboriginal people on the 

goldfields of Victoria. It describes how Aboriginal people often figured 

significantly in the search for gold and documents the devastating social 

impact of gold mining on Victorian Aboriginal communities. It reveals the 

complexity of their involvement in vivid detail. 

6

The Historic Importance of the 

Dingo in Aboriginal Society in 

Victoria 

By Fred Cahir & Ian Clark 

Dingoes feature prominently in Australian 

Aboriginal Creation stories and are also widely 

regarded as having an intricate relationship with 

Aboriginal people. This re-consideration of the 

archival record explores the relationship between 

Aboriginal people, British colonizers in Victoria 

(south-eastern Australia), and dingoes. 



Awards 

A Clyde History [www.clydehistory.comyr.com] 

By John Campbell and Joan Vanderhorn 

'A Clyde History' - a website capturing the community life history of a 

small country town before it is swallowed up by urbanisation. The 

website surveys what happened in the period between when the 

Bunurong camped on the Cardinia Creek and when buses replaced rail 

transport in the 1980's. 

A Small Selection of Camperdown's Notable Scots 

Camperdown & District Historical Society Inc. 

Booklet: A short history of eleven pioneer Scottish settlers of 

Camperdown with relevant illustrations. Produced to coincide with the 

restoration of the heritage-listed, oldest outdoor statue in the world of 

Robert Burns, which was donated to the town in 1883 by one of our 

early Scots settlers - William Taylor. 

Single but not alone: the first 40 years of the 

Council of Single Mothers and their Children 

By Deanne Carson & Fiona Hendry, Council of Single Mothers and 

their Children 

‘Single but not alone’ takes us back to a time when having a child 

outside marriage carried enormous stigma, with many women 

compelled to relinquish their child for adoption. Through the voices of 

the women involved it celebrates the remarkable changes driven by 

CSMC, including the introduction of income support for single mothers, 

reform of the legal status of children and challenging stereotypes, and 

the compassionate support provided for single mothers 

7



Awards 

Melbourne, Mt Alexander & Murray River Railway 

1852 - 1862 Celebration of 150 years 

Castlemaine Historical Society Inc. 

The historic research, writing and production of six interpretive panels, to 

be hung at the Castlemaine Railway Station and the publication of an 

accompanying brochure. To celebrate the construction of the Melbourne, 

Mount Alexander and Murray River railway from its concept in 1852 to its 

opening in Castlemaine in 1862. 

Thompsons "Castlemaine" Employment Records 

Castlemaine Historical Society Inc. 

Thompsons was the largest pump manufacturer in Australia and possibly 

the largest engineering establishment in country Victoria. The digitisation 

of 70 years of employee records by the Castlemaine Historical Society 

Inc. for use in their local and family history resource centre fills an 

enormous gap which has existed in Castlemaine's history. 

A Whirr of Many Wheels: Cycling in Geelong: A 

chronicle from 1869 to 1914 

By Rod Charles 

Cycling was born in 1869 and grew into everyday life in Geelong, much 

as it did in other towns and cities in the Colony (to 1914). Uses seen in 

journals from Europe and America were copied. The 1920's & 30's with 

cycling centre stage will follow. 

The Monster Meeting, The Great Meeting of Diggers 

4pm, 15 December 1851 

Chewton Domain Society 

The Monster Meeting is an artistic interpretation of the significance of 

the 1851 Great Meeting of Diggers on the Forest Creek Goldfield. CD1 

has 13 original interpretations by songwriters and CD2 tells the story 

through interviews, re-enactment and narration - produced by the 

Chewton Domain Society. 

8



Awards 

History in Place 

http://www.cv.vic.gov.au/stories/history-in-place 

Jo Clyne (HTAV), Eleanor Whitworth (Culture Victoria) & Tanya 

Wolkenberg (Heritage Council of Victoria) 

This project connects primary students with their community museums. 

During the pilot program, students spent a day at a local museum 

making digital films about the objects in the collection. The kit is now 

available free to schools and museums and is aligned with the 

Australian History Curriculum. 

Voyage: The Actual and Properly Truthful Account of 

the Emigration of Thomas Pender 

http://aisforatlas.org.au/aa/voyage 

Tamara Searle / Xan Colman, A is for Atlas 

'Voyage' is an ensemble performance work adapted and devised from 

the shipboard diaries of 1880's migrant Thomas Pender. 'Voyage' 

articulates an episode of our Australia migrant history and asks: 'Who 

are the authorities of our history?' 

Gipps-Land Gate Journal: DDHS 50th Anniversary 

Edition 

Dandenong & District Historical Society Inc. 

This Gipps-Land Gate celebrates DDHS's 50th Anniversary with articles 

on local, social and Society history. Max Curtain is acknowledged for his 

outstanding contribution to Dandenong's youth; pioneer Joseph Hawdon 

and Colonel Hutton's 19thC contribution are recalled, and recognition 

given to those who have supported the Society during its 50 years. 

Published June 2013. 

Weaving the Web - 

www.flindersstreetstation.com.au 

Jenny Davies 

WEAVING THE WEB (www.flindersstreetstation.com.au) is a virtual 

online exploration of the Flinders Street Station precinct. The focus 

is on the internal exploration of the heritage buildings with 

accompanying anecdotal stories and photos. Additional material can 

be readily uploaded - continuing to weave the threads of 

Melbourne's history. 

9



Awards 

A collection of articles written for Mount Rouse & 

District Historical Society 

By Phillip Doherty, Mount Rouse Historical Society Inc. 

A collection of stories put together using articles written for the Historical 

Society and published on their website. 

Cock's El Dorado Gold and Tin Mining Dredge 1934 – 

1954 

By El Dorado Museum Association 

Information, photos, documents, newspaper articles, stories and poetry 

collected by and stored at the El Dorado Museum, have been brought 

together in a booklet that tells the story of the heritage listed Cock's El 

Dorado Gold and Tin Mining Dredge 1934 – 1954. 

Harvester City: the making of multicultural Sunshine 

1939 – 1975 

By Olwen Ford, Sunshine & District Historical Society Inc. 

A complex community history of a unique suburb/city - Sunshine, in 

Melbourne's west - set within wider Victorian and Australian contexts and 

focussing on stirring times of war, industrialisation and post-war 

immigration. Local people have shared memories in words and photos 

while detailed research has yielded rich contemporary material. 

Eden of Loveliness Ballarat Botanical Gardens 

Friends of Ballarat Botanical Gardens 

This pictorial history was produced by a visionary group of like minded 

citizens who support and advocate for the Ballarat Botanical Gardens, 

with a strong focus on recording the cultural history of the gardens and 

relevance of the Botanical Gardens as an institution within the Ballarat 

community. 

10



Awards 

Edward M. Curr and the Tide of History 

By Dr Samuel Furphy 

This book is a biography of Edward M. Curr (1820 - 89), a pastoralist, 

stock inspector, Aboriginal administrator, and ethnologist. Best 

remembered for his memoir, Recollections of Squatting in Victoria 

(1883), Curr is also notable for his posthumous influence on the Yorta 

Yorta native title case (1994 - 2001). 

Kyneton Mounted Rifle Corps 

Michael Garnett 

One of the earliest military volunteer units in Victoria was formed in 

Kyneton in November 1859. The long and complex history of the 

Kyneton Mounted Rifles and the Kyneton Infantry Corps has never been 

researched, yet they eventually amalgamated with other units to form the 

Prince of Wales Light Horse which fought with distinction during the Boer 

War and Great War. This book by Michael Garnett is a fund-raiser to 

help raise sufficient finance for the construction of a full-size Light Horse 

Statue to be unveiled during the centenary celebrations for ANZAC 

during 2015. 

Glen Forbes History 

Glen Forbes History Group 

Two local community groups and residents; together with support from 

two district Historical Societies came together to help preserve and 

present the history of the township of Glen Forbes and its people. This 

co-operation has resulted in a large History Board and monument earlier 

this year and the publication and distribution of a complimentary booklet. 

The Newstead Murders 1857 – 1859 

By Adrian R. Haas, Newstead & District Historical Society (NDHS) 

"The Newstead Murders" is a well researched history of four unsolved 

murders in the Newstead district during the Victorian Gold Rush. It raises 

the issue of the treatment of people with mental health issues involved in 

crimes, as well as the lack of a police presence in the goldfields. 

11



Awards 

Living with Fire: People, Nature and History in Steels 

Creek 

By Christine Hansen and Tom Griffiths 

his deeply moving book examines how the Steels Creek community 

rebuilt and redefined itself following the Black Saturday fires. In 'Living 

with Fire' the authors trace both the history of fire in the region and the 

human history in a series of essays together with artwork produced by 

the community. 

Pathways to Harrow 2012: Five women…one town called 

harrow…how, why, and everything in between 

Harrow Bush Nursing Centre 

'Pathways to Harrow' is a 5 year project documenting the journeys of 25 

women (5 each year) who have come to Harrow and why they have 

stayed. A booklet is produced and launched each year coinciding with 

International Day Rural Women on 15 October. Each woman presents a 

20 minute talk. Women are invited who have diverse backgrounds. 

'Life in Ten Houses' 

By Sonja Hartnett, Penguin Books 

'Internationally celebrated writer Sonja Hartnett explores her firmly 

Melburnian roots, vividly recalling the places she has passed through 

on her way to finding 'the last House'. This short memoir is a beautifully 

atmospheric exploration of home, the Melbourne suburbs, and what it 

means to be a writer in a City of Literature. 

Images of Time 

Healesville & District Historical Society 

A pictorial history book spanning the first 50 years of the settlement of 

Healesville up to 1920. 

12



Awards 

A Further History of Colac - 1830s to 1930s 

(The late)Isaac Hebb 

Local Historian Isaac Hebb left an unpublished account of Colac's 

economic and social development when he died in 1939. The publication 

of this document together with Hebb's collection of early photographs, 

involved many members of the Colac and District Historical Society. 

Long-standing businesses also contributed further information and 

illustrative material. 

Through Their Eyes: A glimpse into the lives of 

women from Benalla & District 

Pam Herbert & Maree Hanlon, Benalla & District Historical Society and 

Benalla Family Research Group 

This book is a joint project of the Benalla & District Historical Society and 

Benalla Family Research Group. It came about from a realization that the 

history of local women was largely unrecorded. A call for submissions 

resulted in over 100 wonderful stories and photographs being preserved 

for posterity. 

In Memory of Bull Allen 

Lucinda Horrocks & Jary Nemo, Wind & Sky Productions 

This short online documentary tells the story of Leslie 'Bull' Allen of 

Ballarat, a stretcher-bearer in the Australian Army in World War 2 who 

showed extraordinary bravery in recovering wounded men during battle. 

The film draws on archival film and photographs and features the 

recollections of Allen's surviving family. 

A History of Eight Central Victorian Mechanics' 

Institutes 

Ken James & Noel Davis 

The book investigates the origin and history of eight Mechanics' 

Institutes in Central Victoria - Barfold, Chewton, Elphinstone, Lyal, Mia 

Mia, Redesdale, Sutton Grange and Tarradale. 

13



Awards 

Keilor 150 Years of Local Government 

Curated by Susan Jennison OAM & Dorothy Minkoff, Keilor Historical 

Society 

An exhibition was held in March 2013 to celebrate 150 years since a 

Local District Board (Local Government) had been set up in Keilor. This 

was the catalogue that celebrated the exhibition. 

Norwood, it changed the face of Melbourne 

Roland Johnson 

The book describes 'Norwood', Brighton, Melbourne's most opulent 

Boom mansion. It covers Melbourne's story from Fawkner to the Land 

Boom and Bust of 1880 - 93, and then profiles Mark Moss (the builder) 

and other owners of Norwood and their remarkable sporting stories of 

Lawn Bowls, Sailing and Horse Racing. 

Re-creating La Trobe's Cottage Garden 

Friends of La Trobe's Cottage 

La Trobe's Cottage Garden project has been re-created from scratch, a 

rare pre-gold rush garden originally established in 1839. Only plants 

identified from La Trobe's letters and from contemporary paintings have 

been grown to create the ambience familiar to him. Visitors today learn 

more about the garden from plant labels and guided tours. 

Faces, Places & Events Galleries 

http://www.lilydalehistorical.com.au/galleries.htm 

Lilydale & District Historical Society 

'Faces, Places & Events project used Flickr to create 15 themed 

galleries on our society website covering our collecting area. Each 

gallery has 10 images and more can be added any time via Flickr. 

People can view them and order them via the site ePAYPAL. 

Indexing of 4000 Negatives 

Lilydale & District Historical Society 

The Society has 4,000 plus negatives of images copied by Sandy Ross 

since 1971. Using Excel members have keyed in the negative details 

ready for inclusion with DBTEXT when purchased and linked with 

digital images now being scanned and accessible to all. 

14



Awards 

Through the Sliprails of Time - Family Histories of 

Mansfield & District, Vol. 2 

Mansfield Historical Society 

This second volume highlights the rich contribution and journeys of 

hardship of the pioneer families of Mansfield & District. It enables the 

Society to continue to preserve local history in the words of each family 

and acknowledge and understand and reflect on all aspects of their lives. 

Sir William Clarke, first President of St John 

Ambulance in Australia 

Presentation by Dr Allan Mawdsley 

Baronet Sir William Clarke of Rupertswood was a prominent landowner 

and philanthropist who was Chairman of the Melbourne International 

Exhibition 1880, for which the Exhibition building was built. He was a 

leader in many different fields, including President of St John Ambulance 

Association in Victoria which began the ambulance services in this State. 

Ballangeich and Ellerslie - Bridging the Years 

Robert McLaren 

Ballangeich and Ellerslie districts developed rapidly with the arrival 

of European settlers in 1840, the indigenous population was pushed 

to one side. In 1865, the first land sales occurred in both districts. 

The influx of small farmers was the seed to the birth of these 

communities. This is their story. 

Redemption on the Diamond Creek and Richmond 

Flat 

By Allan Meiers, Richmond & Burnley Historical Society 

Revealed through the footsteps of family history, discover the intense 

adversity, hardship and struggle to survive. Yet redemption is found and 

these ancestors establish themselves to make valuable contributions to 

the early settlement of Victoria. 

15



Awards 

Snapped: 'Melbourne in a moment' 

photography competition 

Melbourne Library Service, City of Melbourne 

The Snapped photography competition was first held in 

2010 with Snapped: Melbourne past and present. The 

competition runs biennially, with the 2012 competition 

Snapped: Melbourne in a Moment launching in August 

2012. The competition aims to stimulate interest in 

Melbourne's history, capture images of Melbourne to 

share with future generations, and to highlight 

Melbourne Library Service as a creative Local History 

hub. In 2010 we acquired 190 original images (150 

new, 40 old) for the MLS Local History photographic 

competition, and in 2012 we acquired 873 new original 

images. These are currently being added to picture 

Victoria in our name. 

About a Mile Away - The Heritage of the Oxley Plains 

Milawa Heritage Group 

A collaborative project 'About a Mile Away - The Heritage of the Oxley 

Plains' co-ordinated by the Milawa Heritage Group captures stories, 

anecdotes and facts from the communities of Bobinawarrah, Carboor, 

Markwood, Meadow Creek, Milawa, Oxley and Oxley Flats. The book 

launch occurred on Henley Ridge where William Hovell and Hamilton 

Hume first viewed the Oxley Plains. A well supported community project 

that allows today's community access to these narratives from the past. 

Moe 1860s to 1960s 100 Years of History 

Moe & District Historical Society 

A DVD which provides images and voice telling the major events of the 

100 years of history of Moe from the 1860s to the 1960s. 

16



Awards 

Celebrating Mooroolbark 

Mooroolbark History Group 

Welcome to the community's journey from the old public hall - 1924, 

through to the opening of the Mooroolbark Community Centre - 1980. 

Including activities held at or around the Red Earth Community Park over 

the following 33 years: 22 Red Earth Festivals + 11 Celebrate 

Mooroolbark Festivals. 

Making Melbourne's Monuments: the Sculpture 

of Paul Montford 

By Catherine Moriarty, Australian Scholarly Publishing 

Based on recently discovered letters, this book tells the story of 

Paul Montford 1868 - 1938, who as Basil Burdett described, 'left his 

mark so definitely on the civic landscape in Melbourne'. Montford 

designed the sculpture on the Shrine of remembrance and the 

statues to Adam Lindsay Gordon in Spring Street, John Wesley in 

Lonsdale Street and Peter Pan at Melbourne Zoo. His engaging 

correspondence and previously unseen photographic archive 

reveal his professional and private concerns and are a fascinating 

reflection of the cultural life of Melbourne between the world wars. 

Mornington Heritage Walk - The Esplanade, Park and 

Foreshore 

Mornington & District Historical Society 

We have produced a 20 page booklet containing a self-guided walking 

tour of 34 places of historic importance along Mornington's Esplanade, 

Park and Foreshore. We wanted to communicate the wonderful history of 

the area in a concise and engaging format. 

The Happy Hermits and Diary of a Trip to Evelyn 

Mount Evelyn History Group 

This book combines photographs of young campers, 'The Happy 

Hermits', with a diary written by two girls staying at an Evelyn 

guesthouse in 1911. Found in a family history collection, they illuminate 

the tourist experience of the early 1900s. The owner provides 

biographical details. Notes on local background are included. 

17



Awards 

Too Much Water! Mount Alexander Shire 2010 to 

2012 flood events 

Focus on Community, Mount Alexander Shire 

When five flood events impacted on a small community, the impact was 

large, but nothing like the greatness of people who chipped in. Friends, 

strangers, neighbours and community downed tools and, at times, 

waded in to lend a hand. This collaboration of photos and stories 

comes from those very people. 

Mount Rouse Historical Society web 

site 

https://sites.google.com/site/penshurst1855 

Mount Rouse Historical Society 

Mount Rouse Historical Society web site - A website 

which provides a variety of constantly updated 

historical information. 

https://sites.google.com/site/penshurst1855 

M.A.D.E. new permanent 

exhibition 

Museum of Australian Democracy at Eureka 

(M.A.D.E.) 

By combining traditional museum displays 

with state of the art multimedia technology, 

the new permanent exhibition at M.A.D.E. 

explores the story of the Eureka Stockade 

and the evolution of democracy. 

Rumour Has It 

City of Greater Geelong, National Wool Museum 

Rumour Has It is an artistic interpretation of ten stories from 

Geelong and surrounds which have been passed down through 

generations. The exhibition honours the diversity of Geelong's 

history and throws light on how much we collectively trust historytelling 

mechanisms. In its mixed media formats, the show also gives 

voice to a number of local artists and artistic forms within the 

museum setting. 

18



Awards 

Jungle Ball with Diamonds - portraits of 

Collingwood's younger men and women 

North Yarra Community Health 

This project records the oral histories of the younger generation of 

Collingwood and provides a broad understanding of its diverse 

community. Together with 'Dancing in the Kitchen' and 'When Fish 

had Feathers' it forms a unique trilogy of oral history. 

Flockers, High Kickers, Brothel Keepers, 

Labourers and the outraged community of 

Echuca between 1870 – 1900 

By Brooke O'Brien 

My project is on prostitution in the Victorian country town of Echuca 

between 1870 - 1900. The research project includes information 

about Echuca prostitutes, community perception and local court 

hearings. 

Pioneers & Suffragists 

By Merrill O'Donnell & Stephen Brooks 

'Pioneers and Suffragists' is the culmination of four years work 

undertaken following the centenary celebrations of Victorian Women 

Voting. We identified 350 Colac & District women who signed the 1891 

"monster petition", researched their family histories, traced and 

contacted descendants, sourced photographs and newspaper items and 

published their inspiring stories. 

Sensory Gardens Orbost Celebrating 20 Years 

Orbost Garden Club Inc. 

By artistic interpretation and community involvement connect the wider 

community with "A Sense of Place". Remember our pioneers, 

understand the changes made to the 'natural environment' and learn 

from what has been written about social activities in the past. Through 

'historical interpretation' create and experience to be remembered. 

19



Awards 

Flyers of Time 

By Kevin M. O'Reilly 

The publication of this book records the pioneer work of aviators in their 

efforts to establish a network of aviation facilities between the great wars 

in rural Victoria and Melbourne. Published October 2012. 

Long Views and Short Vistas: Victoria's 19thcentury 

Public Botanic Gardens 

By Gwen Pascoe, Australian Scholarly Publishing 

Victoria's Botanic Gardens were widely established in the 19th 

century. Modelled closely on English parks and gardens and laid 

out by landscape gardeners and botanists of ability, they are 

places of scientific significance and public recreation. Here, Gwen 

Pasco describes their establishment, intended purposes, many 

uses and the difficulties involved in their maintenance, and how 

over time changing attitudes towards the gardens have 

transformed them. 

Room for Everyone 

Aron Paul 

This commemorative history tells the story of the establishment of 

community housing in St Kilda and of the transition from the St Kilda 

Rooming House Issues Group to St Kilda Community Housing. 

James Grassie: Poet and Aboriginal Story Teller of 


Edited by Andrew G. Peake 

This publication includes a comprehensive biography of James Grassie, 

poet and Aboriginal story teller of Victoria, together with a family history 

of the Grassie and Fallon families of Western Victoria. 

20



Awards 

Iron Wills - Victorian Polio Survivors' Stories 

Polio Network Victoria (Independence Australia) 

Unique account of the Polio epidemic and aftermath - personal stories of 

Polio survivors from diagnosis, to school, work, and the shock arrival of 

the late effects of polio. 

An Exhibition on the first hundred years of Port 

Melbourne 

The Borough and its People: Port Melbourne 1839 - 

1939 

Port Melbourne Historical & Preservation Society 

A visual exhibition using paired informative text and illustrative image 

panels to cover various historical topics, events and personalities relating 

to the first hundred years of Port Melbourne. Its aims were to educate the 

public about local history, publicise a new book on the subject and 

promote the Historical Society. 

Under the Red Ribbon 

By Fiona Poulton, Lucy Bracey & Katherine Sheedy, Victorian Aids 

Council 

'Under the Red Ribbon' is the story of the Victorian Aids Council / Gay 

Men's Health Centre and thirty years of a courageous and determined 

community united by a common cause. This book draws upon archives, 

interviews and photographs to produce a compelling history of a 

community fighting literally for its life. 

Our Aboriginal History and Heritage 

Jim Poulter, Reconciliation Manningham 

Public education on local and regional Aboriginal and first contact history 

has been undertaken through a loaned out static display and pamphlets, 

posters and guided walks and talks in company with Aboriginal Elders. 

All elements have been met with public acclaim. 8,465 people have 

viewed the display in the past 12 months. 

21



Awards 

Birrarung Stories in Manningham 

Jim Poulter, Reconciliation Manningham 

A virtual tour slide show and lecture on 30th May 2013 of significant 

Aboriginal sites and events along the Yarra in Manningham was 

conducted to help gain a greater appreciation of our rich Aboriginal 

history and heritage. 

Valuable Steps - A History of Physical Education in 


Garry Powell 

'Valuable Steps' is a detailed history of physical activity in Victoria from 

the nineteenth century to the present. The twelve chapters and 312 

pages of text are enhanced by 100+ photographs and 150 extracts. 

Involving 32 years of personal experience and 15 years of research and 

writing, it makes a significant contribution to the history within this State. 

Historic Melbourne: A Discovery Tour for the Whole 

Family 

Professional Historians Association (Victoria) 

A fun, colourful self-guided walking tour of historic Melbourne created for 

families. Both interactive and print versions available to download from 

the PHA (Vic) website - www.phavic.org.au/events/historyweek/index.shtml. 

Sites include Flinders Street Station, Chinatown, 

Treasury Gardens, Little Lon Precinct, Fitzroy Garden and Burke and 

Wills Monument. 

L. Bernard Hall: The man the art world forgot 

Gwen Rankin, NewSouth Publishing 

As Director of the National Gallery of Victoria from 1892 to 1935, L. 

Bernard Hall was Australian art's most influential administrator and 

teacher, yet his achievements have been virtually written out of history. 

In this book Gwen Rankin uncovers Hall's fascinating story. 

22



Awards 

Stories of Bena, The People and The Country 

By Margaret N. G. Rees, Bena Community Group Inc. 

The first comprehensive record of settlement and development of the 

land and township of Bena. Written for people past and present who 

know this country. Stories of social and cultural times in this agricultural 

setting aim to nurture remembrance and for newcomers a sense of 

belonging. 

Books for the Profession: The Library of the 

Supreme Court of Victoria 

By Sue Reynolds, Australian Scholarly Publishing 

The Library of the Supreme Court of Victoria was founded in 1853. 

Its founder was Sir Redmond Barry, a judge of the Supreme Court 

and a bibliophile. Barry's interest in books prompted his close and 

leading involvement in the creation of libraries and other major 

public institutions for the new, thriving Colony of Victoria. This book 

recounts the Library's founding and development. 

Unknown Warrior: The Search for Australia's 

Greatest Ace 

Mike Rosel 

The first biography of Captain Robert Alexander Little, a young 

Victorian recognised as Australia's greatest fighter ace, this 

consummate combat pilot claimed 47 victories (and many medals) 

before dying over the Western Front in 1918, aged 22. A hero 

whose remarkable exploits are virtually unknown to ordinary 

Australians. 

Rose Cottage Bacchus Marsh - History of an Era with 

recipes 1888 – 2002 

Shirleyrose Rowe 

Rose Cottage Bacchus Marsh - History of an Era with recipes 1888 - 

2002 - many stories of local interest are interwoven with similarities 

within my own life. 

23



Awards 

Unrevealed Secrets of History 

Students of Rutherglen Primary School and St Mary’s School, 

Rutherglen, ISC Libraries - Rutherglen Branch 

This Rutherglen community project was inspired by the 2012 National 

Year of Reading. Rutherglen Primary School & St Mary's School 

students from grades 3 & 4 worked with members from Rutherglen 

Historical Society and Arts Rutherglen in conjunction with UMRL 

Rutherglen Library to publish a book. "The Unrevealed Secrets of 

History" was written and edited solely by the students. 

Forever Strong: St Bernard's OCFC 

St Bernard’s OCFC 

St Bernard's OCFC 'Forever Strong' is an historical collection of stories 

written by the people that have been involved and established SBOC 

football club over its first 50 years. 

The Osborne House Story 

Cheryl Scott, Osborne Park Association Inc. 

Originally published in 2008 for the 150th celebration of Osborne House, 

this book was revised in 2013 for the March RANC centenary. Both were 

compiled for the OPA Inc. - a Not-for-profit group whose aim is to 

educate the public on the broad history of this unique property. 

Young People and the Shaping of Public Space in 

Melbourne, 1870 – 1914 

By Dr Simon Sleight 

Investigating a discourse of youth, youthful experience and the shaping 

of new urban spaces in turn-of-the-century Melbourne, this book 

explores the uses of public space for play, street work, consumerism, 

courtship, gang-related activities and civic parades, a dynamic youth 

culture is revealed, flourishing well before the arrival of the 'teenager'. 

24



Awards 

"Woman of the Hill" 

http://sovereignhilleducation.wordpress.com/2013/03 

/05/household-arts-of-the-1850s-a-personalexperience/ 

Sovereign Hill Museum Association 

In March 2013, volunteer Jenni Fithall spent three days and two nights 

living in a re-created 1850's cottage in Sovereign Hill's outdoor museum. 

Jenni bathed, cooked and slept as an 1850's woman, watched by 3,800 

visitors, including 1,500 school children, and a world-wide audience on 

the web. The successful event offered the visiting public significant 

insights into women's roles on the Victorian goldfields. 

Heritage and Architecture Walking Tours 

Esther Sugihto & Shelley Freeman, Melbourne Architours 

Melbourne Architours collaborated with the National Trust of 

Victoria (NTAV), the State Library of Victoria (SLV), and heritage 

architect Janet Beeston, to curate a walking tour that unpacks the 

umbrella term 'heritage', illustrating the process of listing and 

protection across levels of government. We showcased 

demolished buildings, existing buildings and future proposals, as 

part of NTAV's heritage festival, and SLV's 150 years of the dome. 

Our Farm - Our Life 

By the students of Thoona Primary School 

A series of interviews by Thoona Primary School students of local 

farm families about their life on the land from settlement to current 

time. This DVD presentation includes an account of rural life, local 

history and a yarn or two. 

Links...Creative Writing of Family History memoirs 

from 2013 

University of Third Age Benalla 

"Links..." is a small publication produced by the members of U3A Benalla 

2013 course in Creative Writing of Family History. It contains a selection 

of the memoirs written as class exercises by senior members of our 

community including some who have never written any history 

previously. 

25



Awards 

VICROADS Centenary: Keeping Victorians 

Connected for 100 Years, 1913 – 2013 

VICROADS, Faircount Media Group 

This publication was produced to celebrate the centenary of VICROADS. 

It was released in March 2013 and acted as a centrepiece to VICROADS 

centenary. 

Victoria's Iron Lacework Part A 

By Robin Vowels 

A history of the foundries and iron founders who made decorative 

ironwork for exteriors of houses, public buildings, and parks in Victoria. 

Includes biographical information and illustrations. First published 20 

March 2013. 

Snarls from the Tea-tree: Big Cat Folklore 

By David Waldron & Simon Townsend, Australian Scholarly 

Publishing 

Fantasy or fact, truly believed our doubted or manufactured, big cat 

scares have for generations haunted South-East Australia. The 

notion that a big cat has escaped and is at loose, or that the 

thylacine survives, is exciting and we may wish it to be true..... 

Interchanging Ideas: 75 years of Water Engineers 

and Operators, Conferences in Victoria 

Water Industry Operators Association of Australia 

'Interchanging Ideas' is produced by the Water Industry Operators 

Association of Australia (WIOA) to celebrate the history of 75 years of 

Water Industry Engineers and Operators Conferences in Victoria. 

Recognising the important role the conferences play in the water industry 

the book goes back to the first event in 1938. 

26



Awards 

A Chat with Old Friends 

Compiled by Jennifer Weaver, Boort Historical Society Inc. 

A collection of recorded chats with some wonderful people who, by 

birthright or by choice, made Boort their home. This collection of 

conversations captures an era of the last century through the eyes of 

people who lived it in their own words or vernacular. 

Old Hartwell - the life and times of the village that 

lost its name 

Holkhard Wehner, Camberwell Historical Society Inc. 

Holkhard Wehner, a member of Camberwell Historical Society, 

researched and published himself a book on the suburb of Hartwell in the 

City of Boroondara. The book was published in September 2012 and 

Volkhard Wehner has consented to this entry. 

Westgarthtown Heritage Walk 

Friends of Westgarthtown Inc. 

Members of the Friends of Westgarthtown Inc. conceived, researched, 

wrote, designed and published the Heritage Walk guide to the historic 

buildings at Westgarthtown. An extended version is also available for 

download at www.westgarthtown.org.au/publications. The guide was 

launched or 28 April 2013 and is available from local and regional 

tourist information centres. 

27



Awards 

Port Melbourne and its NAVAL RESERVE 

DEPOTS 

By John M Wilkins OAM RFD* 

This publication examines the Navy's influence in Port Melbourne 

through its Naval Depots, and those in the community, local and 

Victorian. 

Pioneer Graves in the Mornington Cemetery 

www.morningtoncemetery.com 

Valerie Wilson, Mornington & District Historical Society 

This website evolved from a presentation by Valerie Wilson on the 

history of pioneers interred in Mornington Cemetery. Due to the 

interest shown I decided to put this information on the web. Since 

being launched in November 2012 it has attracted interest and 

inquiries from around the world. 

The Members and Events that shaped the Mordialloc 

Sailing Club Volume III 

Peter White 

The Members and Events that shaped the Mordialloc Sailing Club 

Volume III book summary: After years of struggle and uncertainty the 

Mordialloc Sailing Club was now ready to take advantage of the hard 

fought wins of the past. The immediate aims were to sell the house and 

refurbish the club rooms for a brighter future but could this be achieved? 

Two Acre Village - A Cheltenham y 

Dr Graham Whitehead, City of Kingston 

28



Awards 

Mentone Historical Walking Trail 


Mordialloc Historical Walking Trail 


City of Whittlesea Cultural Heritage Program 2013 

City of Whittlesea 

City of Whittlesea, in collaboration with Melbourne Water, Parks Victoria, 

Friends of Farm Vigano, Friends of Westgarthtown, Friends of 

Woodlands Historic Park, Italian Committee of St Damian's, Padre Dio 

Committee, Plenty Valley Arts & San Donato Associates and others. 

29



Awards 

Whittlesea Township Heritage Walk 

Whittlesea Historical Society Inc. 

Part funded by the Local History Grants Program, Whittlesea township's 

"hidden" history is presented in an informative 28 page self guided 

walking tour booklet, designed such that people who are unable to 

physically complete the walk can still gain an appreciation of Whittlesea's 

history through the many photographs and narrative. 

Father Bob: The Larrikin Priest 

By Sue Williams, Penguin Books 

The story of Father Bob Maguire - the enigmatic champion of the downand-out, 

shaped by a lonely childhood in poor circumstances, an early 

priesthood colliding with the upheaval of Vatican II, and working with 

the army during the Vietnam War. A new look at the much-loved 

'People's Priest', Victorian hero and resilient social activist. 

Upper Beaconsfield An Early History 

By Charles W. Wilson 

A history of the parishes of Pakenham and Gembrook, focusing on the 

townships of Upper Beaconsfield, Beaconsfield, Guys Hill and Dewhurst. 

From beginnings as a minor goldfield, and a health resort and 

playground for Melbourne's rich, to the orchard era, this book charts a 

fascinating story of a tight knit community. 

30



Awards 

Men's Shed Men 

Gregg Wilson 

This project documents the living history of men who are members of 

Men's Sheds around Victoria - I was interested in painting the story of 

their lives as seen in their faces as well as recording their history and 

why they came to the Men's Shed Association. 

Memories of Wonthaggi; The Town That Refused To 

Die! 

Wonthaggi & District Historical Society 

A readable compilation of treasured memories of Wonthaggi citizens 

from early years (1909) to now: living in tent-town, working in the mines, 

migration, strikes, hard times, war and childhood antics.... These stories 

bring to life the beating heart of Wonthaggi. 

From Vision to Reality: The Kindilan Story 1972 to 

2012 

By Fay Woodhouse & Kylie Hughes 

This history traces the origins of the Kindilan School society in 1972, 

fights for government funding, increasing client numbers, pivotal staff 

members and their changing vision for the organisation. 'From Vision to 

Reality' documents changes in legislation, funding and models of care 

within the context of the new National Disability Insurance Scheme. 

Ray Parkin's Odyssey 

By Pattie Wright, Pan MacMillan Australia 

CPO Ray Parkin AM, RAN; artist, author, POW and philosopher. 

Through POW artwork and diaries, this explores Ray's journey 

from Collingwood 1910 to his battle on the HMAS Perth in 1942 

and his years of imprisonment on the Thai Burma Railway and 

Japan. Through this hardship, a natural observer of nature, men 

and life at its best and most dangerous. 

31



Awards 

Virtual Yallourn Website - www.virtualyallourn.com 

Yallourn Association 

Virtual Yallourn Website - www.virtuayallourn.com holds over 1500 

photos, 25,000 data entries, and people add their memories and stories 

to it daily. Search by street or family names, places, events, view the 

map of Yallourn, house plans and more or see the latest wellresearched 

stories of Yallourn Football, Soccer and cricket clubs. 

32



Awards 

Previous Overall Winners 

2012 The Art of Being Melbourne by Maree Coote (publication) 

2011 The People of Budj Bim Gunditjmara people with Gib Wettenhall (publication) 

2010 Behind the Façade: Flinders Street more than just a railway station by Jenny 

Davies (publication) 

2009 The Chinawoman by Ken Oldis (Publication) 

2008 Eaglehawk & District Pioneer Register Volume 6 – T-Z (and incorporating five 

previous volumes from A to S) by Annette O’Donohue & Bev Hanson (Community 

Research, Registers and Records) 

2007 Still Going Strong: The story of the Moyarra Honor Roll by Jillian Durance, 

Moyarra Community Group (Publication) 

2005 The Eureka Encyclopaedia by Justin Corfield, Dorothy Wickham and Clare 

Gervasoni (Publication) 

2004 “Oriental Crossing” Wandiligong by Carol Bennett, Wandiligong Preservation 

Society (Collaborative / Community Work) 

2003 We Came With Nothing & Footsteps in the Tar (CD) Stories from the West Sale 

Migrant Holding Centre by Ann Synan and Deb Bye (Publication and CD-ROM) 

2002 The George: St Kilda Life and Times by Gillian Upton (Publication) 

2001 “1864” by Warik Lawrance (Interactive CD-ROM) (Audio-Visual / Multimedia) 

2000 Jackson’s Track by Daryl Tonkin & Carolyn Landon (Publication) 

1999 Melbourne Street Life by Andrew Brown-May (Publication) 

1998 The Settling of Gippsland: A Regional History by Patrick Morgan (Publication) 

The Victorian Community History Awards are presented by Public Record Office Victoria in 

partnership with the Royal Historical Society of Victoria. 

33

VCHA 2013 Entries List - Royal Historical Society of Victoria

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