From the Maitland Mercury report:
The Kurri Kurri Nostalgia Festival is bringing retro back on the weekend of March 27 to 29.
There will be a host of new events for 2015, including a high tea and fashion parade at Kurri Kurri High School.
"It is something you go to with your girlfriends and have a bit of fun and a laugh," fashion parade organiser Rachel McDermott said.
Full article available at Maitland Mercury, March 26, 2015.
Sunday, March 29, 2015
A third locomotive is needed for this year's Steamfest in Maitland
From the Maitland Mercury report:
A team of locomotive experts is scouring NSW to find a third steam engine for Burton Automotive Hunter Valley Steamfest activities this year.
They already have two, but hope to find a third one.
The quest to pinpoint another locomotive was launched after the previous engine needed extensive repairs.
“Steamfest organisers have been advised that the particular locomotive 3265 will no longer be attending Hunter Valley Steamfest,” Maitland City Council communications team leader Chris Breaden said.
Full article available at Maitland Mercury, March 24, 2015.
A team of locomotive experts is scouring NSW to find a third steam engine for Burton Automotive Hunter Valley Steamfest activities this year.
They already have two, but hope to find a third one.
The quest to pinpoint another locomotive was launched after the previous engine needed extensive repairs.
“Steamfest organisers have been advised that the particular locomotive 3265 will no longer be attending Hunter Valley Steamfest,” Maitland City Council communications team leader Chris Breaden said.
Full article available at Maitland Mercury, March 24, 2015.
Kurri students step back in time for Nostalgia Festival
From the Maitland Mercury report:
The frenzy around this year’s Kurri Kurri Nostalgia Festival has spread to the local schools.
Kurri Kurri Public School will step back in time on Friday when teachers and students dress in their best retro attire.
In keeping with the town’s main event, students will learn about life in the 1950s including art, music, dance, games and literature.
Some of the students had already tried on their retro clothes when car enthusiast Denzil Godwin brought his 1956 Chevy to the school for a bit of show and tell.
Full article available at Maitland Mercury, March 23, 2015.
The frenzy around this year’s Kurri Kurri Nostalgia Festival has spread to the local schools.
Kurri Kurri Public School will step back in time on Friday when teachers and students dress in their best retro attire.
In keeping with the town’s main event, students will learn about life in the 1950s including art, music, dance, games and literature.
Some of the students had already tried on their retro clothes when car enthusiast Denzil Godwin brought his 1956 Chevy to the school for a bit of show and tell.
Full article available at Maitland Mercury, March 23, 2015.
Family home at Maitland moved to higher ground after the 1955 flood
From the Maitland Mercury report:
The Burns’ family home was the first house in Maitland to be cut in half and moved to higher ground, following the 1955 flood.
Like many families, the devastation of multiple floods saw Mildred and Ronald Burns make a big
decision – to move the family home.
But unlike most houses that were transported, the family-built home was too big and had to be cut right down the middle and moved in two sections.
The couple’s son, Victor Burns, dropped into the Mercury office to share his family’s story.
Full article available at Maitland Mercury, March 20, 2015.
The Burns’ family home was the first house in Maitland to be cut in half and moved to higher ground, following the 1955 flood.
Like many families, the devastation of multiple floods saw Mildred and Ronald Burns make a big
decision – to move the family home.
But unlike most houses that were transported, the family-built home was too big and had to be cut right down the middle and moved in two sections.
The couple’s son, Victor Burns, dropped into the Mercury office to share his family’s story.
Full article available at Maitland Mercury, March 20, 2015.
Decades of historical research to be given to Maitland City Library after Cynthia Hunter retires
From the Maitland Mercury report:
For almost four decades Cynthia Hunter has researched, recorded and resurrected the stories of Maitland and its surrounding areas.
Today, as she prepares to retire from her role as celebrated historian and author, Mrs Hunter will bequeath her highly coveted collection to Maitland City Library.
The collection is made up of resources associated with Mrs Hunter’s research from 1975 to 2014 and includes maps, photos, original documents, books and reports.
Full article available at Maitland Mercury, March 19, 2015.
For almost four decades Cynthia Hunter has researched, recorded and resurrected the stories of Maitland and its surrounding areas.
Today, as she prepares to retire from her role as celebrated historian and author, Mrs Hunter will bequeath her highly coveted collection to Maitland City Library.
The collection is made up of resources associated with Mrs Hunter’s research from 1975 to 2014 and includes maps, photos, original documents, books and reports.
Full article available at Maitland Mercury, March 19, 2015.
Maitland Regional Art Gallery director Joe Eisenberg departs with a Jewish gift
From the Maitland Mercury report:
As Joe Eisenberg’s chapter as director of the Maitland Regional Art Gallery draws to a close, his Jewish heritage has once again come to the fore.
In a nod to his Jewish ancestry, Mr Eisenberg will host a performance by the London Klezmer Quartet as he prepares to leave his post at the gallery later this year.
Full article available at Maitland Mercury, March 19, 2015.
As Joe Eisenberg’s chapter as director of the Maitland Regional Art Gallery draws to a close, his Jewish heritage has once again come to the fore.
In a nod to his Jewish ancestry, Mr Eisenberg will host a performance by the London Klezmer Quartet as he prepares to leave his post at the gallery later this year.
Full article available at Maitland Mercury, March 19, 2015.
Liberals promise $250,000 to restore grandstand at Maitland Showground
From the Maitland Mercury report:
The Baird government will provide $250,000 to return the ailing Maitland Showground grandstand to its former glory if re-elected.
“This is just an integral piece of, not only Maitland’s history, but Maitland’s future,” Mr Thomson said. “It [funding] brings this building back to being the centrepiece of the showground and it will reclaim its place as a historical treasure.”
Full Article available at Maitland Mercury, March 19, 2015.
The Baird government will provide $250,000 to return the ailing Maitland Showground grandstand to its former glory if re-elected.
“This is just an integral piece of, not only Maitland’s history, but Maitland’s future,” Mr Thomson said. “It [funding] brings this building back to being the centrepiece of the showground and it will reclaim its place as a historical treasure.”
Full Article available at Maitland Mercury, March 19, 2015.
Thursday, March 19, 2015
The 14th Australasian Congress on Genealogy and Heraldry 26-30 March 2015
Generations Meeting Across Time - the 14th Australasian Congress on Genealogy and Heraldry will be held in Canberra on 26-29 March 2015. It will bring together high quality Australian and international speakers and will provide opportunities for Congress participants to meet the speakers and to meet with other Congress participants who share the same interests and enthusiasm.
Further information: Australasian Congress on Genealogy and Heraldry
Further information: Australasian Congress on Genealogy and Heraldry
Hunter Valley Classic Commercial Vehicle Truck Muster draws a crowd to Maitland Showground
From the Maitland Mercury report:
Many people have a personal connection to old vehicles.
That was the secret to the success of the Hunter Valley Classic Commercial Vehicle Truck Muster in Maitland on the weekend, event organiser Bill Swift said.
Vintage commercial vehicles, military vehicles, fire engines, buses and farm machinery from as far back as the 1920s lined the showground as part of the biennial event.
Full article available at Maitland Mercury, March 15, 2015.
Many people have a personal connection to old vehicles.
That was the secret to the success of the Hunter Valley Classic Commercial Vehicle Truck Muster in Maitland on the weekend, event organiser Bill Swift said.
Vintage commercial vehicles, military vehicles, fire engines, buses and farm machinery from as far back as the 1920s lined the showground as part of the biennial event.
Full article available at Maitland Mercury, March 15, 2015.
$125,000 to conserve some of Maitland's historic sites
From the Maitland Mercury report:
Custodians of some of Maitland’s historic sites have received a $125,000 boost for their upkeep.
Maitland City Council has been awarded the funding as part of the state government’s Heritage Grants Program.
It will mean conservation works at East Maitland’s Glebe Cemetery and Maitland’s Jewish Cemetery will each receive $40,000, and another $40,000 will be contributed to the Walka Water Works Interpretation Plan.
Council’s Maitland Local Heritage Places Fund will also get a $5000 top-up.
Full article available at Maitland Mercury, March 12, 2015.
Custodians of some of Maitland’s historic sites have received a $125,000 boost for their upkeep.
Maitland City Council has been awarded the funding as part of the state government’s Heritage Grants Program.
It will mean conservation works at East Maitland’s Glebe Cemetery and Maitland’s Jewish Cemetery will each receive $40,000, and another $40,000 will be contributed to the Walka Water Works Interpretation Plan.
Council’s Maitland Local Heritage Places Fund will also get a $5000 top-up.
Full article available at Maitland Mercury, March 12, 2015.
Kurri geared up and ready for the 2015 Nostalgia Festival
From the Maitland Mercury report:
Hot rods and hot rollers are prepped and ready for this year’s Kurri Kurri Nostalgia Festival.
The retro event runs from March 27 to 29 and is now in its second decade.
The festival covers all things rock ‘n’ roll, including cars, music, fashion and dancing.
Free entertainment will take place over the weekend, with rock ‘n’ roll bands and 1950s music in the mix.
Full article available at Maitland Mercury, March 11, 2015.
Hot rods and hot rollers are prepped and ready for this year’s Kurri Kurri Nostalgia Festival.
The retro event runs from March 27 to 29 and is now in its second decade.
The festival covers all things rock ‘n’ roll, including cars, music, fashion and dancing.
Free entertainment will take place over the weekend, with rock ‘n’ roll bands and 1950s music in the mix.
Full article available at Maitland Mercury, March 11, 2015.
Maitland Council to take neglectful property owners to court - Bob's Bird Barn!
From the Maitland Mercury report:
Maitland City Councillors will consider tonight whether to take legal action against three property owners in Maitland who have been the subject of complaints and subsequent council investigations recently.
In his report to councillors, development surveillance officer George Knezevic wrote that council received between 150 and 200 complaints from the public about the poor state of properties each year, most of which were resolved within 21 days.
Council previously won a court case over the state of a derelict High Street building that was commonly known as Bob’s Bird Barn, because it had been deemed unsafe.
In that case, council carried out repairs to a hanging awning and won costs from the landlord in the NSW Land and Environment Court.
Full article available at Maitland Mercury, March 9, 2015.
Maitland City Councillors will consider tonight whether to take legal action against three property owners in Maitland who have been the subject of complaints and subsequent council investigations recently.
In his report to councillors, development surveillance officer George Knezevic wrote that council received between 150 and 200 complaints from the public about the poor state of properties each year, most of which were resolved within 21 days.
Council previously won a court case over the state of a derelict High Street building that was commonly known as Bob’s Bird Barn, because it had been deemed unsafe.
In that case, council carried out repairs to a hanging awning and won costs from the landlord in the NSW Land and Environment Court.
Full article available at Maitland Mercury, March 9, 2015.
Maitland's first air show in 10 years
From the Maitland Mercury report:
Maitland is to have its first air show in 10 years, with all the barnstorming thrills of the 1930s on display.
Known as the Hunter Valley Air Show at Maitland Airport, one of the highlights will be a unique flight performed by local aerobatic expert Paul Bennet in a Pitts Special.
This involves the plane skimming across the ground at low level – low enough for a motorcyclist to loop over the top of it. It is a stunt Mr Bennet arranged and only he is flying it.
Mr Bennet is organising the show for July 4 and 5.
Full article available at Maitland Mercury, March 9, 2015.
Maitland is to have its first air show in 10 years, with all the barnstorming thrills of the 1930s on display.
Known as the Hunter Valley Air Show at Maitland Airport, one of the highlights will be a unique flight performed by local aerobatic expert Paul Bennet in a Pitts Special.
This involves the plane skimming across the ground at low level – low enough for a motorcyclist to loop over the top of it. It is a stunt Mr Bennet arranged and only he is flying it.
Mr Bennet is organising the show for July 4 and 5.
Full article available at Maitland Mercury, March 9, 2015.
Anzac nurses' embroidery on display
From the Maitland Mercury report:
Maitland nurses who worked under horrific conditions taking care of injured soldiers during World War I used their off-duty time to embroider.
A sample of their fancy work, as it was called, is on display at East Maitland Library as part of Maitland Embroiderers Anzac challenge.
Members were invited to create pieces to commemorate the 100th anniversary of Anzac Day and the Anzac spirit.
Full article available at Maitland Mercury,
Maitland nurses who worked under horrific conditions taking care of injured soldiers during World War I used their off-duty time to embroider.
A sample of their fancy work, as it was called, is on display at East Maitland Library as part of Maitland Embroiderers Anzac challenge.
Members were invited to create pieces to commemorate the 100th anniversary of Anzac Day and the Anzac spirit.
Full article available at Maitland Mercury,
Thursday, March 12, 2015
Council to approve Maitland Town Hall upgrades
From the Maitland Mercury report:
The latest upgrades to Maitland Town Hall are expected to be completed late this year, with the contract for the job likely to be awarded in June.
Maitland City Councillors will formally adopt the Maitland Town Hall Conservation Management Plan at Tuesday’s council meeting.
The plan, which has identified upgrades needed at the facility between 2013 and 2017, highlighted key priorities for maintenance at the hall.
Council’s infrastructure projects and building services manager Graeme Mathews said work this year would include upgrades to audio-visual equipment and improvements to lighting and theatre infrastructure.
These upgrades were listed as medium level priorities in the conservation management plan.
Full article available at Maitland Mercury, March 8, 2015.
The latest upgrades to Maitland Town Hall are expected to be completed late this year, with the contract for the job likely to be awarded in June.
Maitland City Councillors will formally adopt the Maitland Town Hall Conservation Management Plan at Tuesday’s council meeting.
The plan, which has identified upgrades needed at the facility between 2013 and 2017, highlighted key priorities for maintenance at the hall.
Council’s infrastructure projects and building services manager Graeme Mathews said work this year would include upgrades to audio-visual equipment and improvements to lighting and theatre infrastructure.
These upgrades were listed as medium level priorities in the conservation management plan.
Full article available at Maitland Mercury, March 8, 2015.
Volunteers needed to help make Steamfest another success
From the Maitland Mercury report:
Plans are rolling along for this year’s Burton Automotive Hunter Valley Steamfest.
Tickets are now available for the annual celebration of steam-powered machines, which will be held in the Maitland railway station precinct on April 18 and 19.
Maitland City Council used the event’s launch to call for more volunteers to help make the event run smoothly.
Council’s events co-ordinator Adam Franks said people didn’t need to be locomotive enthusiasts to volunteer.
“People don’t necessarily need to have a passion for steam to get involved, simply an interest in playing their part in creating a positive experience for visitors,” he said.
“This year, new to the program, we’re doing some coal loop runs in Port Waratah.
“That’s a first for a number of years for Steamfest.
Full article available at Maitland Mercury, March 8, 2015.
Plans are rolling along for this year’s Burton Automotive Hunter Valley Steamfest.
Tickets are now available for the annual celebration of steam-powered machines, which will be held in the Maitland railway station precinct on April 18 and 19.
Maitland City Council used the event’s launch to call for more volunteers to help make the event run smoothly.
Council’s events co-ordinator Adam Franks said people didn’t need to be locomotive enthusiasts to volunteer.
“People don’t necessarily need to have a passion for steam to get involved, simply an interest in playing their part in creating a positive experience for visitors,” he said.
“This year, new to the program, we’re doing some coal loop runs in Port Waratah.
“That’s a first for a number of years for Steamfest.
Full article available at Maitland Mercury, March 8, 2015.
Kath Waddell steps down as music director at St Peter's Anglican Church
From the Maitland Mercury report:
Music is something that has been part of Kath Waddell’s life for most of her 79 years.
The East Maitland woman has used her skill and passion to bring music to the ears of parishioners at St Peter’s Anglican church for the past 50 years.
She stepped down as the parish’s music director at the end of last year, after 45 years in the role.
The church community celebrated her contribution to church life last month and held a special service in her honour.
Full article available at Maitland Mercury, March 7, 2015.
Music is something that has been part of Kath Waddell’s life for most of her 79 years.
The East Maitland woman has used her skill and passion to bring music to the ears of parishioners at St Peter’s Anglican church for the past 50 years.
She stepped down as the parish’s music director at the end of last year, after 45 years in the role.
The church community celebrated her contribution to church life last month and held a special service in her honour.
Full article available at Maitland Mercury, March 7, 2015.
Gallipoli 1915: a century on : conference 18-20 March 2015
An international conference hosted by the Australian War Memorial and the Australian National University
Llewellyn Hall, Australian National University, Canberra
18-20 March 2015
On the centenary of Gallipoli, Australia’s national memorial and museum of war joins with Australia’s national university to host this major international conference. Leading historians from all the countries who contributed forces to the campaign will present the most current perspectives on the many faces of Gallipoli.
Themes to be covered will include:
Please contact Paulina Leko at Conference Logistics for any enquiries relating to the conference. Paulina can be contacted on 6281 6624 or paulina@conlog.com.au
Llewellyn Hall, Australian National University, Canberra
18-20 March 2015
On the centenary of Gallipoli, Australia’s national memorial and museum of war joins with Australia’s national university to host this major international conference. Leading historians from all the countries who contributed forces to the campaign will present the most current perspectives on the many faces of Gallipoli.
Themes to be covered will include:
- The planning and conduct of the campaign on land and sea
- The impact of Gallipoli on the societies involved
- Myth, memory, and nationalism
- The legacies and heritage of the Gallipoli peninsula
- Gallipoli today.
Please contact Paulina Leko at Conference Logistics for any enquiries relating to the conference. Paulina can be contacted on 6281 6624 or paulina@conlog.com.au
Telarah Public School seeks old mementos for 125th anniversary celebration
From the Maitland Mercury report:
The original 1890 bell that rang at the start and end of school every day has been unearthed and given a new lease of life at Telarah Public School.
The bell was discovered under one of the school’s older classrooms in time for it to be restored and placed on show for the school’s 125th anniversary celebrations later this year.
Principal Tony Gadd rescued the bell this year from the dust and grime under the classroom.
“It has been cleaned and restored and Maitland Historical Society has been to have a look and confirmed it is an original bell about 150 years old.
Full article available at Maitland Mercury, March 4, 2015.
The original 1890 bell that rang at the start and end of school every day has been unearthed and given a new lease of life at Telarah Public School.
The bell was discovered under one of the school’s older classrooms in time for it to be restored and placed on show for the school’s 125th anniversary celebrations later this year.
Principal Tony Gadd rescued the bell this year from the dust and grime under the classroom.
“It has been cleaned and restored and Maitland Historical Society has been to have a look and confirmed it is an original bell about 150 years old.
Full article available at Maitland Mercury, March 4, 2015.
Maitland Cathedral precinct : multi-million dollar plans to restore historic buildings
From the Maitland Mercury report:
A multi-million dollar project to resurrect two historical buildings as part of a cathedral precinct for Maitland will begin next month.
Plans to restore St John the Baptist Chapel and Bishop’s House will form stage one of a vision to revive the precinct for next year’s sesquicentenary of the Diocese of Maitland-Newcastle.
“The diocese is currently working on its part of the central Maitland re-development – the cathedral precinct – and looks forward to collaborating closely with council to see this next stage of Maitland’s regeneration delivered,” catholic development fund manager Sean Scanlon said.
Full article available at Maitland Mercury, March 4, 2015
A multi-million dollar project to resurrect two historical buildings as part of a cathedral precinct for Maitland will begin next month.
Plans to restore St John the Baptist Chapel and Bishop’s House will form stage one of a vision to revive the precinct for next year’s sesquicentenary of the Diocese of Maitland-Newcastle.
“The diocese is currently working on its part of the central Maitland re-development – the cathedral precinct – and looks forward to collaborating closely with council to see this next stage of Maitland’s regeneration delivered,” catholic development fund manager Sean Scanlon said.
Full article available at Maitland Mercury, March 4, 2015
Maitland readers urged to share family histories in Faces of Anzacs
From the Maitland Mercury report:
Imagine how Mrs C. Cliff must have felt when she received this reply to an inquiry about her son, who had been reported wounded in World War I.
Alfred Beyer Cliff had enlisted less than a year earlier in Cowell in regional South Australia and had found his way to the war front in Ypres in Belgium, his son Milton explained.
Full article available at Maitland Mercury, March 1, 2015.
Imagine how Mrs C. Cliff must have felt when she received this reply to an inquiry about her son, who had been reported wounded in World War I.
Your son, Private A.B. Cliff, is reported to have been admitted on October 9, 1917 to King George Military Hospital, London, with severe gunshot wounds, multiple,” it read.
“On receipt of any later cable messages, you will be promptly advised, but in the absence of further news, it may be assumed favourable progress is being maintained.”
Private Albert Cliff left a treasure trove of historic items from his service in World War I.
Alfred Beyer Cliff had enlisted less than a year earlier in Cowell in regional South Australia and had found his way to the war front in Ypres in Belgium, his son Milton explained.
Full article available at Maitland Mercury, March 1, 2015.
Friday, March 6, 2015
100th anniversary of women in the police force
From the Maitland Mercury report:
In 1915, the first two women joined the NSW Police Force.
Now, 100 years on, there are 4542 female sworn officers and 2581 female unsworn officers across the state.
March 1 marks the centenary of women in policing and the theme for the year is Celebrating Compassion, Courage and Strength.
In 1915, the NSW Police Department advertised just two positions for female police.
Almost 500 women applied for the positions and Lillian Armfield and Maude Rhodes were chosen.
They soon became Probationary Special Constables but were not issued with a uniform and had to wear civilian clothes.
They were also required to sign a safety release that removed the department's responsibility for them.
Not only were Armfield and Rhodes the first female officers in the state, they were the first women employed for police duties in the Commonwealth.
Full article available at Maitland Mercury, Feb. 28, 2015.
In 1915, the first two women joined the NSW Police Force.
Now, 100 years on, there are 4542 female sworn officers and 2581 female unsworn officers across the state.
March 1 marks the centenary of women in policing and the theme for the year is Celebrating Compassion, Courage and Strength.
In 1915, the NSW Police Department advertised just two positions for female police.
Almost 500 women applied for the positions and Lillian Armfield and Maude Rhodes were chosen.
They soon became Probationary Special Constables but were not issued with a uniform and had to wear civilian clothes.
They were also required to sign a safety release that removed the department's responsibility for them.
Not only were Armfield and Rhodes the first female officers in the state, they were the first women employed for police duties in the Commonwealth.
Full article available at Maitland Mercury, Feb. 28, 2015.
Paterson prepares to retrace its proud history : Journey back in time
From the Maitland Mercury report:
The Keppies is a pioneering family of the Paterson district and one of the most respected for a long history of contributions to the development of the town.
James Keppie arrived in 1831 as engineer of the Sophia Jane, the first paddle steamship seen in Sydney Harbour.
When war was declared on August 6, 1914, Arthur Ernest Keppie was one of the first to enlist with the 4th NSW Battalion AIF – service number 205.
Arthur (Podge) was born at Paterson on March 3, 1883, the eighth of 10 children born to William and Salome Keppie.
Private Keppie’s battalion became part of the first contingent of Australian and New Zealand forces that assembled in a large flotilla in King George Sound on the south coast of Western Australia.
He was aboard the SS Euripides that sailed for Egypt on November 1, 1914.
Private Keppie kept an articulate diary and his writings to family and friends provided detailed records and impressions of army life.
Full article available at Maitland Mercury, Feb. 28, 2015.
The Keppies is a pioneering family of the Paterson district and one of the most respected for a long history of contributions to the development of the town.
James Keppie arrived in 1831 as engineer of the Sophia Jane, the first paddle steamship seen in Sydney Harbour.
When war was declared on August 6, 1914, Arthur Ernest Keppie was one of the first to enlist with the 4th NSW Battalion AIF – service number 205.
Arthur (Podge) was born at Paterson on March 3, 1883, the eighth of 10 children born to William and Salome Keppie.
Private Keppie’s battalion became part of the first contingent of Australian and New Zealand forces that assembled in a large flotilla in King George Sound on the south coast of Western Australia.
He was aboard the SS Euripides that sailed for Egypt on November 1, 1914.
Private Keppie kept an articulate diary and his writings to family and friends provided detailed records and impressions of army life.
Full article available at Maitland Mercury, Feb. 28, 2015.
1955 Maitland flood part of collective memory
From the Maitland Mercury report:
And the way for us, February is the cruellest month; like Eliot’s memory and desire stirring, so does ours.
And February quickens the reminiscence, it wakes us from our dry January meditation – February is flood month.
And the way February is often heavy with cyclone skies up north which on some invisible, malevolent and necessary system come lurching south and fill the gullies to bursting, and every 100, 200, 500 years its makes rivers of our fields and streets and homes.
And so I went down to the Town Hall, down to my rocket-ship the Town Hall to see and feel and remember 1955.
And there on the wall was the rightful question “Are You Flood Ready?”
Full article available at Maitland Mercury,
And the way for us, February is the cruellest month; like Eliot’s memory and desire stirring, so does ours.
And February quickens the reminiscence, it wakes us from our dry January meditation – February is flood month.
And the way February is often heavy with cyclone skies up north which on some invisible, malevolent and necessary system come lurching south and fill the gullies to bursting, and every 100, 200, 500 years its makes rivers of our fields and streets and homes.
And so I went down to the Town Hall, down to my rocket-ship the Town Hall to see and feel and remember 1955.
And there on the wall was the rightful question “Are You Flood Ready?”
Full article available at Maitland Mercury,
Paterson air raid shelter a piece of history
From the Maitland Mercury report:
In 1941, Paterson man Bill Ingram built an air raid shelter to protect the town's public school students.
Originally, the bunker was for everyone in the area to shelter from the threat of Japanese bombs during World War II, but the major concern was for the safety of school children.
The original school building in Church Street backed onto the main northern railway line which also runs through the town of Paterson.
It was a real and terrifying threat in war time that the railway line and bridge in the centre of town would be targeted.
The children would march across the road to practice getting inside the shelter for 20 minutes, once a week.
Full article available at Maitland Mercury, Feb. 26, 2015.
In 1941, Paterson man Bill Ingram built an air raid shelter to protect the town's public school students.
Originally, the bunker was for everyone in the area to shelter from the threat of Japanese bombs during World War II, but the major concern was for the safety of school children.
The original school building in Church Street backed onto the main northern railway line which also runs through the town of Paterson.
It was a real and terrifying threat in war time that the railway line and bridge in the centre of town would be targeted.
The children would march across the road to practice getting inside the shelter for 20 minutes, once a week.
Full article available at Maitland Mercury, Feb. 26, 2015.
Flood markers and signs lacking in Maitland
From the Maitland Mercury article by Chas Keys:
In 1982 the Department of Public Works, builder of the Lower Hunter Flood Mitigation Scheme, fixed more than a hundred flood markers to power poles within the City of Maitland.
They were in central Maitland, South Maitland, Louth Park, Horseshoe Bend, East Maitland, Lorn, Bolwarra, Pitnacree, Phoenix Park and elsewhere, and they indicated the peak level reached by the great flood of 1955.
Their siting was guided by maps made at the flood's peak and they were accurate to within about 150mm. They were important in helping people to understand just where the flood reached and how deep the water was. Some were more than four metres above ground level.
By 2008, about two thirds of the markers had disappeared.
Full article available at Maitland Mercury, Feb. 26, 2015.
In 1982 the Department of Public Works, builder of the Lower Hunter Flood Mitigation Scheme, fixed more than a hundred flood markers to power poles within the City of Maitland.
They were in central Maitland, South Maitland, Louth Park, Horseshoe Bend, East Maitland, Lorn, Bolwarra, Pitnacree, Phoenix Park and elsewhere, and they indicated the peak level reached by the great flood of 1955.
Their siting was guided by maps made at the flood's peak and they were accurate to within about 150mm. They were important in helping people to understand just where the flood reached and how deep the water was. Some were more than four metres above ground level.
By 2008, about two thirds of the markers had disappeared.
Full article available at Maitland Mercury, Feb. 26, 2015.
Flood evacuation in Maitland
From the Maitland Mercury article by Chas Keys:
Maitland's long history of floods has often seen people having to leave their homes.
During the second half of the 19th century the evacuation of hundreds or even small numbers of thousands of people occurred frequently, and the numerous floods of 1949 to 1956 also saw many having to flee.
In 1955 more than 8000 people, of a total of about 25,000 in the area of the present City of Maitland, had to leave.
Since 1955, thanks to the modern mitigation system, evacuation has been mercifully infrequent, though 1971 saw 450 people leave their homes and in 2007 about 3000 did so.
Full article available at Maitland Mercury, Feb. 26, 2015.
Maitland's long history of floods has often seen people having to leave their homes.
During the second half of the 19th century the evacuation of hundreds or even small numbers of thousands of people occurred frequently, and the numerous floods of 1949 to 1956 also saw many having to flee.
In 1955 more than 8000 people, of a total of about 25,000 in the area of the present City of Maitland, had to leave.
Since 1955, thanks to the modern mitigation system, evacuation has been mercifully infrequent, though 1971 saw 450 people leave their homes and in 2007 about 3000 did so.
Full article available at Maitland Mercury, Feb. 26, 2015.
Complacency about flooding is a major problem in Maitland
From the Maitland Mercury article by Chas Keys:
Maitland’s flood mitigation scheme has been a boon to the community for decades. But there is one problem: the protection it provides has made people complacent about flooding.
Unfortunately the flood problem appears, to those who live in the built-up areas, to have been solved.
It is not widely appreciated that the mitigation scheme was not designed to keep out of the built-up areas floods of a scale not much larger than the 1971 flood and well short of the scale of the 1955 one.
Full article available at Maitland Mercury, Feb. 26, 2015.
Maitland’s flood mitigation scheme has been a boon to the community for decades. But there is one problem: the protection it provides has made people complacent about flooding.
Unfortunately the flood problem appears, to those who live in the built-up areas, to have been solved.
It is not widely appreciated that the mitigation scheme was not designed to keep out of the built-up areas floods of a scale not much larger than the 1971 flood and well short of the scale of the 1955 one.
Full article available at Maitland Mercury, Feb. 26, 2015.
Marking the Centenary of the Gallipoli Campaign - Commonwealth War Graves Commission
On 25 April 2015, we will commemorate the centenary of the landings on the Gallipoli Peninsula in Turkey. What followed in 1915 was a bitter eight-month campaign that lead to the loss of some 500,000 Commonwealth and Turkish servicemen and women.
Australia and New Zealand conduct three commemorative services at Gallipoli on Anzac Day each year. The Dawn Service at the Anzac Commemorative Site is jointly conducted by both countries and is followed by an Australian Memorial Service at Lone Pine, and a New Zealand Memorial Service at Chunuk Bair.
A ceremony organised by the UK government in collaboration with the Australian and New Zealand High Commissions will take place at the Cenotaph in London. There will also be a Commonwealth and Ireland Commemoration Service on Friday 24 April 2015 at the CWGC Cape Helles Memorial in Gallipoli.
Click on the links below for more information:
Australian Government
New Zealand Government
United Kingdom Government
Australia and New Zealand conduct three commemorative services at Gallipoli on Anzac Day each year. The Dawn Service at the Anzac Commemorative Site is jointly conducted by both countries and is followed by an Australian Memorial Service at Lone Pine, and a New Zealand Memorial Service at Chunuk Bair.
A ceremony organised by the UK government in collaboration with the Australian and New Zealand High Commissions will take place at the Cenotaph in London. There will also be a Commonwealth and Ireland Commemoration Service on Friday 24 April 2015 at the CWGC Cape Helles Memorial in Gallipoli.
Click on the links below for more information:
Australian Government
New Zealand Government
United Kingdom Government
Newly Digitised Newspapers at Trove
Now available through Trove is the Melbourne Punch (Melbourne, Vic: 1855–1900), the Cloncurry Advocate (Qld:1931–1953) and the Mackay Mercury (Qld: 1867–1887), and the earliest-known Chinese-Australian newspapers, The Chinese Australian Herald (1894–1923), Chinese Times (1902–1922) and The Chinese Advertiser (1856) which later became the country's first bilingual newspaper, The English and Chinese Advertiser (1856–1858).
Raymond Terrace Historical Society event
Celebrate Australian history at its best as two Hunter-based historians and authors bring history to life.
John Gillam and Yvonne Fletcher of 'Legends and Lessons' speak on another aspect of
'Their story : Service, sacrifice and community support'1914-1915.
20th March 2015
7.00pm to 9.00pm, Senior Citizen's Hall, Raymond Terrace.
phone for more detail: 49872161 Raymond Terrace Historical Society
John Gillam and Yvonne Fletcher of 'Legends and Lessons' speak on another aspect of
'Their story : Service, sacrifice and community support'1914-1915.
20th March 2015
7.00pm to 9.00pm, Senior Citizen's Hall, Raymond Terrace.
phone for more detail: 49872161 Raymond Terrace Historical Society
Sunday, March 1, 2015
Maitland's flood level indicators have all but disappeared
From the Maitland Mercury report:
Woodville resident Lynette Huckstadt is on a mission to see Maitland’s 1955 flood level indicators replaced on power poles across the city.
While on her rounds as a Maitland Community Care Services volunteer, Mrs Huckstadt noticed the once-familiar blue and white Public Works signs had been taken down.
Despite asking questions about their removal at last weekend’s 1955 flood display at Maitland Town Hall, Mrs Huckstadt has not received any convincing answers.
“I noticed the signs were missing for some months now while I travel with clients on the community bus,” she said.
“I spoke to Maitland City Council and Local Land Services to find out where the signs had gone.
“But no one could tell me.”
Full article available at Maitland Mercury, Feb. 25, 2015.
Woodville resident Lynette Huckstadt is on a mission to see Maitland’s 1955 flood level indicators replaced on power poles across the city.
While on her rounds as a Maitland Community Care Services volunteer, Mrs Huckstadt noticed the once-familiar blue and white Public Works signs had been taken down.
Despite asking questions about their removal at last weekend’s 1955 flood display at Maitland Town Hall, Mrs Huckstadt has not received any convincing answers.
“I noticed the signs were missing for some months now while I travel with clients on the community bus,” she said.
“I spoke to Maitland City Council and Local Land Services to find out where the signs had gone.
“But no one could tell me.”
Full article available at Maitland Mercury, Feb. 25, 2015.
Gallery:1955 Maitland and Singleton flood
AS PART of the 60th anniversary, we bring you a gallery of some of our best photographs of the 1955 flood.
Today, we bring you a selection of some of our photos from the 1955 Maitland and Singleton floods.
View at the Maitland Mercury article, Feb. 24, 2015.
Will unearths way to research family history
From the Maitland Mercury report:
Cheryl-Ann Leggatt has been tracing her family’s genealogy for about 27 years.
The Neath woman had a good idea of her family tree on her father’s side of the family, but there was still mystery surrounding her mother’s patriarchal route, until a recent breakthrough.
Findmypast.com.au, an online ancestry research tool, released more than 400,000 NSW wills.
This included the will of Mrs Leggatt’s great-grandmother – Lillie Louisa Palmer.
“My ... great-grandmother’s will came up,” Mrs Leggatt said. “We knew she owned property because my grandfather received it after she died.
“But we found out about another property in Sydney that we had no idea about.
Full article available at Maitland Mercury, Feb. 23, 2015.
Cheryl-Ann Leggatt has been tracing her family’s genealogy for about 27 years.
The Neath woman had a good idea of her family tree on her father’s side of the family, but there was still mystery surrounding her mother’s patriarchal route, until a recent breakthrough.
Findmypast.com.au, an online ancestry research tool, released more than 400,000 NSW wills.
This included the will of Mrs Leggatt’s great-grandmother – Lillie Louisa Palmer.
“My ... great-grandmother’s will came up,” Mrs Leggatt said. “We knew she owned property because my grandfather received it after she died.
“But we found out about another property in Sydney that we had no idea about.
Full article available at Maitland Mercury, Feb. 23, 2015.
Exhibition brings back memories for Maitland 1955 flood survivor
From the Maitland Mercury report:
Jon Mitchell was 16 years old when he floated through Maitland floodwaters on the roof of a house.
He was one of about 2000 people who attended a 60th anniversary exhibition that commemorated the infamous 1955 Maitland flood on the weekend.
Mr Mitchell told the Mercury that he sought refuge from rising floodwaters on the roof of a Mount Pleasant Street home one morning in 1955.
But he said a wall of water rushed at the house and washed it along the street toward The Long Bridge.
“It smashed up against that and we were dragged underneath and out the other side and they [rescuers] picked us up at Testers Hollow,” Mr Mitchell said.
Full article available at Maitland Mercury, Feb. 22, 2015.
Jon Mitchell was 16 years old when he floated through Maitland floodwaters on the roof of a house.
He was one of about 2000 people who attended a 60th anniversary exhibition that commemorated the infamous 1955 Maitland flood on the weekend.
Mr Mitchell told the Mercury that he sought refuge from rising floodwaters on the roof of a Mount Pleasant Street home one morning in 1955.
But he said a wall of water rushed at the house and washed it along the street toward The Long Bridge.
“It smashed up against that and we were dragged underneath and out the other side and they [rescuers] picked us up at Testers Hollow,” Mr Mitchell said.
Full article available at Maitland Mercury, Feb. 22, 2015.
Share your family’s link to the Anzacs with the Maitland Mercury
From the Maitland Mercury report:
Gallipoli and the Anzacs 100 years on will be remembered in the Mercury on Friday, April 24.
The paper will publish a special edition that will feature the stories of Maitland’s war heroes and the women who supported them at home.
We will tell the story about the first man from Paterson to enlist – Arthur Keppie – the women who worked for the war effort and for the troops on the homefront, and the Maitland men who enlisted to fight.
Mercury journalist Jessica Brown will tell her story about a visit to Gallipoli.
Reporter Allan Hardie will tell the stories of troops sent to war and the Hunter students travelling to Gallipoli for the 100th anniversary.
Full article available at Maitland Mercury, Feb. 19, 2015.
Gallipoli and the Anzacs 100 years on will be remembered in the Mercury on Friday, April 24.
The paper will publish a special edition that will feature the stories of Maitland’s war heroes and the women who supported them at home.
We will tell the story about the first man from Paterson to enlist – Arthur Keppie – the women who worked for the war effort and for the troops on the homefront, and the Maitland men who enlisted to fight.
Mercury journalist Jessica Brown will tell her story about a visit to Gallipoli.
Reporter Allan Hardie will tell the stories of troops sent to war and the Hunter students travelling to Gallipoli for the 100th anniversary.
Full article available at Maitland Mercury, Feb. 19, 2015.
Australian Museum facelift
After 125 years of its entrance on College Street, The Australian Museum is building a new entry on William Street. The museum's entry will shift from its entrance on College Street. Visitors will instead enter through a new facade, measuring eight metres by 20 metres and pleated with crystalline glass diamonds, on the William Street side.
The contemporary ‘floating glass’ entry hall was unveiled on 30 January by Deputy Premier and Minister for the Arts, the Hon Troy Grant. Named the Crystal Hall, in recognition of the glass pleated facade, the new design on William Street is by award-winning Sydney-based Neeson Murcutt Architects, led by principal Rachel Neeson and architect-in-association Joe Grech.
The upgrade to the entry allows the Australian Museum to expand its permanent gallery areas with the creation of over 630m2 of exhibition space. Showcasing a rich array of biodiversity featuring more than 400 animal specimens, Wild Planet, is the first permanent gallery to be added in over 50 years. Also included is a Museum Walk, a 4.5-metre-wide floating ramp to provide full accessibility from the corner of College and William streets to the new entry hall.
The contemporary ‘floating glass’ entry hall was unveiled on 30 January by Deputy Premier and Minister for the Arts, the Hon Troy Grant. Named the Crystal Hall, in recognition of the glass pleated facade, the new design on William Street is by award-winning Sydney-based Neeson Murcutt Architects, led by principal Rachel Neeson and architect-in-association Joe Grech.
The upgrade to the entry allows the Australian Museum to expand its permanent gallery areas with the creation of over 630m2 of exhibition space. Showcasing a rich array of biodiversity featuring more than 400 animal specimens, Wild Planet, is the first permanent gallery to be added in over 50 years. Also included is a Museum Walk, a 4.5-metre-wide floating ramp to provide full accessibility from the corner of College and William streets to the new entry hall.
Museums and Galleries New South Wales relocating
After 16 years at The Gunnery - Museums & Galleries of NSW are moving to new premises in the recently refurbished Arts Exchange building on Hickson Rd, the Rocks in April.
We’ll be sharing the building with a bunch of NSW based arts organisations; The Biennale of Sydney, Sydney Festival, Sydney Writers Festival, Sydney Film Festival and Accessible Arts. Our new offices are on level one along with Regional Arts NSW and we’re looking forward to sharing ideas, resources and services, and building partnerships with our new neighbours.
We’ll miss our Gunnery friends, not to mention our postie Sue, but will stay in touch with both Arts Law and NAVA through our professional development events and the complementary nature of our work.
We’ll be sharing the building with a bunch of NSW based arts organisations; The Biennale of Sydney, Sydney Festival, Sydney Writers Festival, Sydney Film Festival and Accessible Arts. Our new offices are on level one along with Regional Arts NSW and we’re looking forward to sharing ideas, resources and services, and building partnerships with our new neighbours.
We’ll miss our Gunnery friends, not to mention our postie Sue, but will stay in touch with both Arts Law and NAVA through our professional development events and the complementary nature of our work.
Society of Australian Genealogists
Society of Australian Genealogists Activities in March:
Thursday 5 March (10.30am - 12.30pm) - Victorian Way of Death
The Victorians developed a unique approach to celebrating the death of their loved ones through elaborate funerals and the garden cemetery movement of the 19th century. In this talk we will consider the stylistic development, imagery and symbolism used, changes with WWI, and discuss strategies for interpreting difficult inscriptions. This talk is ideal for those who haven't done much research in cemeteries before. Presenter: Stephen Palmer. Bookings essential. $20 ($30 non-members).
Saturday 7 March (10.30am - 12.00pm) - Tour - Gallipoli Series - Using and Evaluating Sources in Family History - Macquarie University
With an emphasis on (but not restricted to) World War I sources, we are invited to Macquarie University's Australian History Museum to learn about analysing and using sources, evaluating their usefulness, bias and value to inform research about any topic at any level. Using hands-on activities and case studies from the Museum's own collections this trip will enable the family historian to apply principles of historiography to their work. The Museum is staffed by qualified academics from the History faculty of the University. The Museum is located within University's North Ryde campus with parking available very close by and public transport servicing the University. Upon registration you will be provided with detailed information on how to get there and where to meet. Limited to 20 participants. Bookings essential. $10 ($15 non-members). Wednesday 11 March (8.00pm - 9.00pm) - Webinar - Tracing Irish Ancestors on FindMyPast
Join the Head of Irish Data and Business Development as he explains how FindMyPast can help you with your Irish research. A great way to break down those Irish brick walls as we head towards St Patrick's Day. Bookings essential. $10. SAG Members only. Saturday 14 March (10.30am - 12.30pm) - Legacy Software Group
An informal meeting of current and potential Legacy users to exchange information, ideas and techniques. Bring your questions and laptop. Facilitator – Bev Hyssett. Bookings essential. $8 ($12 non-members). Saturday 21 March (10.30am - 12.30pm) - Gallipoli Series - Finding Your Military Ancestors
Do you have an ancestor in the Army? Military records in the UK, most Commonwealth countries and the USA are thorough, especially since the Battle of Waterloo. Most European countries also have good records. Asian countries hold a very variable range, and most of these are of officers. Most of all these records are not digitised- as yet. We will look at how to access records for the Army, Navy, the Air Force and Women’s Services, and some means to understand a very complex situation. Presenter: Peter Trebilco. Bookings essential. $20 ($30 non-members). Tuesday 24 March (11.00am - 12.00pm) - Tour - Preservation Australia
In November’s Lost In event, Kay Soderlund of Preservation Australia spoke very passionately about storing and preserving paper and artefacts and brought along some tools of the trade. Whether you were in the audience and were intrigued, or would like to know the latest information on how to store what’s in your family archive, this is a great opportunity to learn from the very same experts that the top Libraries and Museums go to help keep their precious items safe for generations to come. Visit Preservation Australia’s premises in Annandale and see their conservation studio, buy from their range of archival products and discuss ways of preserving your family heritage. This is a special event for SAG members, as a follow up to the talk given at our ‘Lost In’ event in November. Meet at their premises at Annandale - exact information will be provided for those who have booked closer to the date. There is 2 hour and all-day parking close by and it is close to Parramatta Road so well serviced by buses. Note - there is a steep flight of steps to reach the conservation studio. Bookings essential. Members Only and limited to 20 participants. $10. Tuesday 31 March (11.00am - 12.00pm) - Tour - Cockatoo Island
Meet on the island. Cockatoo Island is a site of significance for Sydnesiders, frombeing a convict gaol to WWII when it was a maintenance site for the Australian Navy. Enjoy a day of history with an hour's tour by SHF guides. Participants must make their own arrangements to get to the Island - the ferry timetable will be provided closer to the event. Bookings close Thursday 26 March. Limited to 25 participants. Bookings Essential. $20 ($25 non-members)
Thursday 5 March (10.30am - 12.30pm) - Victorian Way of Death
The Victorians developed a unique approach to celebrating the death of their loved ones through elaborate funerals and the garden cemetery movement of the 19th century. In this talk we will consider the stylistic development, imagery and symbolism used, changes with WWI, and discuss strategies for interpreting difficult inscriptions. This talk is ideal for those who haven't done much research in cemeteries before. Presenter: Stephen Palmer. Bookings essential. $20 ($30 non-members).
With an emphasis on (but not restricted to) World War I sources, we are invited to Macquarie University's Australian History Museum to learn about analysing and using sources, evaluating their usefulness, bias and value to inform research about any topic at any level. Using hands-on activities and case studies from the Museum's own collections this trip will enable the family historian to apply principles of historiography to their work. The Museum is staffed by qualified academics from the History faculty of the University. The Museum is located within University's North Ryde campus with parking available very close by and public transport servicing the University. Upon registration you will be provided with detailed information on how to get there and where to meet. Limited to 20 participants. Bookings essential. $10 ($15 non-members).
Join the Head of Irish Data and Business Development as he explains how FindMyPast can help you with your Irish research. A great way to break down those Irish brick walls as we head towards St Patrick's Day. Bookings essential. $10. SAG Members only.
An informal meeting of current and potential Legacy users to exchange information, ideas and techniques. Bring your questions and laptop. Facilitator – Bev Hyssett. Bookings essential. $8 ($12 non-members).
Do you have an ancestor in the Army? Military records in the UK, most Commonwealth countries and the USA are thorough, especially since the Battle of Waterloo. Most European countries also have good records. Asian countries hold a very variable range, and most of these are of officers. Most of all these records are not digitised- as yet. We will look at how to access records for the Army, Navy, the Air Force and Women’s Services, and some means to understand a very complex situation. Presenter: Peter Trebilco. Bookings essential. $20 ($30 non-members).
In November’s Lost In event, Kay Soderlund of Preservation Australia spoke very passionately about storing and preserving paper and artefacts and brought along some tools of the trade. Whether you were in the audience and were intrigued, or would like to know the latest information on how to store what’s in your family archive, this is a great opportunity to learn from the very same experts that the top Libraries and Museums go to help keep their precious items safe for generations to come. Visit Preservation Australia’s premises in Annandale and see their conservation studio, buy from their range of archival products and discuss ways of preserving your family heritage. This is a special event for SAG members, as a follow up to the talk given at our ‘Lost In’ event in November. Meet at their premises at Annandale - exact information will be provided for those who have booked closer to the date. There is 2 hour and all-day parking close by and it is close to Parramatta Road so well serviced by buses. Note - there is a steep flight of steps to reach the conservation studio. Bookings essential. Members Only and limited to 20 participants. $10.
Meet on the island. Cockatoo Island is a site of significance for Sydnesiders, frombeing a convict gaol to WWII when it was a maintenance site for the Australian Navy. Enjoy a day of history with an hour's tour by SHF guides. Participants must make their own arrangements to get to the Island - the ferry timetable will be provided closer to the event. Bookings close Thursday 26 March. Limited to 25 participants. Bookings Essential. $20 ($25 non-members)
Throsby Park estate
Explore the Throsby Park estate in the Southern Highlands with its colonial homestead, original weatherboard cottage (c1823), old country garden and mid-19th-century farm buildings.
Discover the handsome 1817 Anglo-Indian bungalow Glenfield restored by Sydney Living Museums and now a much loved family home.
Find out the history of the earliest days of rural settlement on a visit to Beulah, an old pioneering farming estate near Appin.
Sunday 12 April - Throsby Park
Sunday 19 April - Glenfield & Beulah More information
Discover the handsome 1817 Anglo-Indian bungalow Glenfield restored by Sydney Living Museums and now a much loved family home.
Find out the history of the earliest days of rural settlement on a visit to Beulah, an old pioneering farming estate near Appin.
Sunday 12 April - Throsby Park
Sunday 19 April - Glenfield & Beulah More information
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