Monday, December 19, 2016

Heritage representatives visit Morpeth as part of Morpeth Heritage Conservation Group's application

From the Maitland Mercury report:
A Morpeth community group’s bid to have the historic town added to the state heritage list has progressed.
The NSW Office of Environment and Heritage has met with Maitland council and visited the town as it considers the application.
Two representatives met with council’s urban growth manager Ian Shillington, development and environment manager David Sim and heritage officer Clare James.
Afterwards they met with Morpeth Heritage Conservation Group president Simon Brooker, member Alec Clements and resident Stephen Berry.

Full article available at Maitland Mercury, 19 Dec 2016.

Maitland Woolworths bombing on December 19, 1980

From the Maitland Mercury report:
Minutes before 2am on December 19, 1980, Maitland Woolworths was bombed.
Located in High Street at the time, next to the Westpac Bank, the blast caused $300,000 of stock damage.
A bomb had been lowered through a vent near the back car park of the variety shop.
Police were aware that Woolworths at Warilla had also been bombed with gelignite using a timer attached, and it too had been lowered through the roof.

Full article available at Maitland Mercury, 19 Dec 2016.

12 Australian Genealogy Blogs You Should Be Following

From:  Genealogy & History News 
There are millions of blogs out there … on just about any topic that you can think of, including family history, genealogy and history.
But which ones should you follow? Back in 2013 Jill Ball and Inside History Magazine put together a listing of the Top 50 Blogs You Need To Read, and I must say that is a great list. So do yourself a favour and check it out.

However, if you don’t have time to subscribe and follow all 50, here’s just 12 Australian history/genealogy related ones that we have chosen.

Royal Australian Historical Society events 2017

RAHS ---  Our Calendar of Events for the summer season has just been released. We have excursions to Government House, the Australian National Maritime Museum and The Rocks Discovery Museum/YHA Big Dig Site planned (numbers are limited so book early to secure your place).
Guest speakers at History House will present a range of history topics, including the occupational pursuits of Greek-Australians, New South Wales and the Great War, and the life of Marie Byles – the first female solicitor of NSW, to name a few. The next Arts NSW funded RAHS regional seminar will take place in Wauchope, NSW, in mid March and Oral History NSW will return to History House for an Introduction to Oral History in April.

Maitland council will investigate restoration of Dunmore Lang family's tomb

From the Maitland Mercury report:
A family crypt containing the remains of some of Australia’s earliest settlers may soon be restored and put on the tourist map.
Maitland City Council voted unanimously at a meeting this week to investigate the purchase of land and the funding of the restoration of the Dunmore Lang family crypt at Largs.

Full article available at Maitland Mercury, 14 Dec 2016.

Maitland councillor Arch Humphery calls on council to restore historic Dunmore family gravesite

From the Maitland Mercury report:
Maitland councillor Arch Humphery is on a mission to retore the derelict tomb of the pioneering Dunmore Lang family.
The family crypt located opposite Dunmore House on Paterson Road, Largs is a significant part of Maitland’s history many people are unaware of.
Cr Humphery said the family set up the area’s first flour mill on the Paterson River, which employed 350 people. They also built historic Dunmore House, a landmark Hunter building which owners Paris and Mittie Osborne have restored.

Full article available at Maitland Mercury, 12 Dec 2016.

The Maitland Mercury moves into new home in Central Maitland

From the Maitland Mercury report:
The first edition of the Maitland Mercury has been produced from the masthead’s new home, in Central Maitland. Staff have moved in to the Elgin Street premises – next to the ANZ bank  and the office will open as normal during business hours from Monday.
The move from 555 High Street – near The Long Bridge – came almost five years after staff relocated from opposite Maitland Town Hall, where the paper was produced for more than a century.

Full article available at Maitland Mercury, 12 Dec 2016.

Friday, December 9, 2016

Annual Christmas Fare - Hyde Park Barracks Museum

This one-evening-only event will feature over 40 stalls, providing the opportunity to shop from a hand-picked selection of Sydney’s finest artisan producers, makers and small-scale retailers. From create-your-own gourmet food hampers to premium handmade produce and artisan wares, we have your gift shopping covered as well as everything you need for your Christmas table.
Thursday 15 December, 4pm–9pm, Hyde Park Barracks Museum
More info: http://sydneylivingmuseums.com.au/events/christmas-fare-2016

National Archives of Australia relocation

The relocation of 15 million records to the new National Archives Preservation Facility (NAPF) continues. Records are being moved at a rate of 8000 boxes per day! Many months of planning have involved:
• recording the shelf locations of more than 570,000 containers. The Archives’ collection management system takes into account the dimensions of different containers used to house items, from standard type 1 (85 per cent of the collection) to type 0 containers, which are custom-made for particular items.
• replacing damaged containers and wrapping awkward collection items
• planning for the relocation of specialist equipment, including microscopes, cameras and scanners, as well as the digital archive
• undertaking a mass clean-up, moving bulk materials and planning their transition to the NAPF.
There will be disruption to access until 1 July 2017 but you can view digitised records online and in our state and territory offices. For more information please visit the Archives’ website

Maitland vehicles of the 1960s

From the Maitland Mercury:
Throwback Thursday - Vehicles of the 1960s

Gallery available at Maitland Mercury, 8 Dec 2016.

Maitland business through the years

From the Maitland Mercury:
Flashback Friday
Take a look at the changing face of business in Maitland from the Fairfax archives.

Full article available at Maitland Mercury, 25 Nov 2016.

John Eales book tells of a respected rogue who shaped the Hunter

From the Maitland Mercury report:
The book charts the spectacular rise and fall of the Eales’ family fortunes over 149 years.
After arriving in Australia from England to take up a land grant at Berry Park near Morpeth in 1823, Eales tackled many business ventures.

A rogue with plenty of energy, Eales was respected and expanded his farming empire and built elaborate metal grain silos, believed to be a first for colonial Australia.
He survived the 1840’s Depression and eventually held more than 16,000 acres (6475ha) of freehold land in Maitland alone. He was involved in 240 land transactions during his lifetime.
Eales dabbled in horse racing, built a private racecourse, bred blood stock and erected Berry Park House, Berry House and Duckenfield House for his son John Jnr.

Full article available at Maitland Mercury, 23 Nov 2016.

Wednesday, November 30, 2016

Maitland historian Peter Bogan warns the city about future flood risk

From the Maitland Mercury report:
Historian Peter Bogan says there will be another 1955 flood in Maitland, will you be ready for it?
After living through the 1955 flood Maitland historian Peter Bogan knows what can happen when a low depression hits the city.
Six decades on the memories are still rife in his mind, and he has a strong message for every Maitland resident.
“Everyone needs to have a flood plan,” he said. “We will definitely see another 1955 flood.”

Full article available at Maitland Mercury, 17 Nov 2016.

Maitland High School flag and honour role rededicated

From the Maitland Mercury report:
The historic Maitland High School has restored a flag that forms both a keystone of its past and a connection to the men who gave their all in World War 1.
In 1914, 345 old boys from Maitland High School signed up to fight in the bloody theatres of the great war.
Sixty of those men, almost one in five, never returned.
The names of those brave young soldiers were hand stitched into an Australian flag created by the young women at the-then Maitland Girls High School, in a show of support.

Full article available at Maitland Mercury, 15 Nov 2016.

Hunter mining legacy: Inside Bloomfield at Maitland Regional Art Gallery

From the Maitland Mercury report:
One of the exhibits to be celebrated at Maitland Regional Art Gallery’s Summer Art Party will be Inside Bloomfield.
Bloomfield’s 30 paintings were made by Linda Greedy during a 12 month artist in residency facilitated by The Bloomfield Group. This body of work celebrates the working life of the Hunter coal mine, its history, the people and a wild goat called Rachel.

Full article available at Maitland Mercury, 14 Nov 2016.

Maitland Historical Society open day

From the Maitland Mercury report:
History is closer than ever before, an ever-increasing arsenal of digital tools has allowed anyone with a computer access to the deepest archives of information.
But there’s something to be said for the feel of paper, yellowed with age, the warmth of old family photos and the sturdy feeling of old-world objects.
The Maitland Historical Society, home the city’s most dedicated historians, will hold an open day this weekend to inspire the community to join and raise some funds to continue their mission.

Full article available at Maitland Mercury, 14 Nov 2016.

Thursday, November 24, 2016

Hyde Park Barracks opens The Bakehouse

Sydney Living Museums has announced the opening of a new SLM hospitality establishment, the Bakehouse, a contemporary take on the Australian colonial experience, located in the original 1819 convict bakehouse and store of the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Hyde Park Barracks Museum.
The Bakehouse is a casual-contemporary dining space located in the CBD’s historic Hyde Park Barracks.  The dining space is reminiscent of a colonial mess hall with its long shared dining tables, contemporary colonial features of recycled and white washed timbers, large scale graphics adorning the walls in tribute to the craftsmanship of the day and Australian Native flora adding an inviting warmth into this beautiful, historic space.
 
 

Morpeth's River Royal Inn reopening

From the Maitland Mercury report:
It has been a long wait but well worth it with the new look River Royal Inn at Morpeth about to reopen.
The landmark pub in Swan Street will throw its doors open once again to the public after it was almost written off in last year’s April super storm.
The new look River Royal Inn has been restored to its former glory with a twist.
It now tells the story of Morpeth’s history through items of historical significance scattered around the 160-year-old property.
Mr McNamara worked with Morpeth Museum to document the town’s past as part of the rebuilding project.

Full article available at Maitland Mercury, 11 Nov 2016.

Glebe Cemetery received first place in cultural heritage award

From the Maitland Mercury report:
After years of chasing the Tidy Towns accolade Maitland has finally scooped up the title.
The annual Tidy Town awards have been renamed the Keep NSW Beautiful Blue Star Overall Regional Sustainability Award, so Maitland is officially a Blue Star city.
The Glebe Cemetery received first place in the cultural heritage award section, Grossmann High School received a highly commended in the community environment achievement award category and St Joseph’s Primary School received a highly commended in the going green education awards category.

Full article available at Maitland Mercury, 9 Nov 2016.

Woolworths workers from Maitland reunite after 45 years

From the Maitland Mercury report:
It was Maitland’s Big W of the seventies and a store where just about everyone in town knew someone who worked there.
Woolies variety store in High Street was one of the most popular businesses on Maitland’s west end and probably one of the most talked about after it was bombed on December 19, 1980.
Located on the current site of The Reject Shop, Woolworths employed a myriad of people, many of them getting together last Saturday night for a reunion.

Full article available at Maitland Mercury, 9 Nov 2016.

Protect historic Aberglasslyn House from Maitland's urban sprawl

From the Maitland Mercury report:
A draft planning proposal has been prepared to address concerns about development controls around historic Aberglasslyn House.
A report to Tuesday night’s council meeting said current controls were not adequate to ensure that the curtilage of the state-listed heritage building was protected from incompatible development.
The report said controls were necessary to prevent any further subdivision of the lots between Cockatoo Ridge and Aberglasslyn House and to ensure that any ancillary buildings were subject to a development application.

Full article available at Maitland Mercury, 7 Nov 2016.

Thursday, November 10, 2016

Mansfield: an inconic Maitland building

From the Maitland Mercury report:
One of the Hunter’s most magnificent and intriguing commercial buildings will throw its doors open to the public this weekend.
Mansfield, the former CBC Bank in High Street Maitland, will open on Sunday to raise money for the Friends of Grossmann House.
Owner Chris Richards is restoring the landmark building not as a bank but as a reception centre with a difference.
He has generously offered to open the property to help Friends of Grossmann House with their fundraising drive and to give members of the public a sneak peek into a little piece of Maitland’s history.

Full article available at Maitland Mercury, 2 Nov 2016.

Windows into Wartime: a new exhibition produced by State Records NSW

Windows into Wartime is a new exhibition produced by State Records NSW for the Centenary of Anzac and to commemorate the 100 year anniversary of the First World War. The exhibition presents a selection of images produced by the NSW Government Printing Office Photographic Branch during and immediately after the Great War. As society mobilised on the home front in support of Australia’s military effort overseas, government photographers were on the ground in Sydney and across the state shooting the image. They photographed a raft of activities and produced an extraordinary body of work that not only documented, but promoted and shaped how the people of NSW responded to the impact and upheaval caused by the First World War. Today, this collection of historic images—reproduced from original glass plate negatives—provides us with a unique insight into the NSW home front during the First World War.

Western Sydney Records Centre
17 October 2016 – 9 September 2017
9.00am – 5.00pm Monday – Friday
10.00am – 4.00pm Saturdays

Rivers were roads and steam was king: The Way We Worked

From the Maitland Mercury article:
On Boxing morning, 1912, the steamboat Guthrey, with about 400 people on board, left Newcastle to travel up the Paterson River to the Paterson township.
But at a bend in the river, about 400 metres from Dunmore Bridge, the boat struck a rock and stuck fast...

New book, The Way We Worked, by journalist Greg Ray and his wife, Sylvia.

The book is available from the Maitland Mercury office at 6/555 High Street, Maitland, theherald.com.au online bookstore and from participating newsagents and booksellers.

Full article available at Maitland Mercury, 1 Nov 2016.

Maitland council takes steps to secure the long term tenure of Maitland Gaol

From the Maitland Mercury report:
Maitland City Council will take steps to secure the long-term future of Maitland Gaol as a leading Hunter tourist attraction.
At a recent meeting councillors voted to contact the NSW Department of Industries – Lands, to pursue securing a long term tenure of the iconic East Maitland building.

Full article available at Maitland Mercury, 30 Oct 2016.

Steamfest finalist in NSW Tourism Awards

From the Maitland Mercury report:
Maitland’s celebration of the golden era of steam machines has been named as a finalist in the NSW Tourism Awards.
Steamfest, which celebrated its 30th anniversary in April, is a finalist in the Major Festivals and Events category.

Full article available at Maitland Mercury, 30 Oct 2016.

Friday, October 28, 2016

Work on Riverlink Building begins in The Levee, Maitland

From the Maitland Mercury report:
Work to build The Levee Riverlink Building, a cornerstone of Maitland Council’s major city-centre revamp, will begin on Monday.
Three High Street premises will be demolished to make way for the arch structure, which will link the shared pedestrian and vehicle zone to the bank of the Hunter River.
It will feature public open space, public art, new amenities and a café.
The Riverlink Building is a key part of council’s $9.92 million second stage of the central Maitland upgrades.
“It has been a little over 12 months since council officially opened The Levee development component one to vehicle traffic, which has seen the space blossom with activity,” council’s general manager David Evans said.

Full article available at Maitland Mercury, 24 Oct 2016.

Inside History September 2016 edition

Inside History magazine is for people passionate about Australian family history and heritage, with features and practical tips to help you trace your family tree and discover the life your ancestor led. Whether you want to explore convict history, find your Anzac, identify photographs or trace your family tree, our trusted expert advice will help you discover your past.
In issue 36, the Spring 2016 edition of Australia’s favourite history and genealogy magazine, you’ll discover:
  • 150+ new family history records online
  • The case of an Irish orphan girl
  • Tracing your Welsh ancestry
  • A Victoria Cross winner turned war propagandist
  • Journeying aboard a Royal Mail coach
  • Chasing Captain Thunderbolt
  • Two million years of world history in 100 objects
  • The stretcher-bearers of Passchendaele
  • A new Irish parish maps resource
  • The Indigenous warrior who fought against Brisbane’s colonial settlement

History Council of NSW secures 2017 funding

The History Council of NSW is delighted to announce it has been successful in its application for 2017 funding from the NSW Government through Arts NSW‘s Arts and Cultural Development program.
The Deputy Premier and Minister for the Arts, Troy Grant, yesterday announced the range of artists and cultural organisations across New South Wales who have secured funding to deliver a range of ‘innovative and vibrant annual programs and individual projects to local communities’.
The History Council of NSW aims to build capacity in the history sector and connect new audiences with stories from the past. As with previous years, the History Council of NSW will continue to host its state-wide festival – History Week – for its 20th year, however, it will add a new range of programs in 2017.

Thursday, October 20, 2016

New exhibition coming to Museum of Sydney : Demolished Sydney

This summer the Museum of Sydney will host Demolished Sydney, an exhibition exploring the buildings that once shaped the city’s skyline, from the convict built Commissariat Stores to the city's last island of industry, the Kent Brewery. 
Curated by Dr Nicola Teffer, the exhibition examines the histories of 13 sites and asks, what are the forces that have shaped our changing city and how do we value and preserve the heritage of the city we inherit?
Demolished Sydney brings back to life the heritage of a Sydney that is gone but not forgotten.

Currency Lass opens Les Darcy cafe to pay it forward

From the Maitland Mercury report:
In a year, High Street’s Currency Lass has transformed from a dilapidated former pub to accommodation for the Hunter’s homeless. Next month one of the final pieces of the puzzle will fall into place, a pay-it-forward cafe styled after a Maitland legend.
Founder Liz Berger said patrons of the cafe can donate extra money which will be used to provide a coffee or meal to families and individuals struggling to make ends meet.

Full article available at Maitland Mercury, 16 Oct 2016.

Hunter (Living) Histories - Coal River Working Party - Carrington Pump House

Illustrations from Thesis 608 held in the University of Newcastle’s Cultural Collections (Auchmuty Library).

John Gibson was on 1233 ABC Radio this morning (8 October 2016) announcing the heritage nomination for the Carrington Pumphouse and the historic hydraulic works established in Newcastle in 1877. We were surprised to find that it had been established just a year after the one in the United Kingdom and predates the pumphouse in Sydney which was not built until 1891.
For further information see: https://hunterlivinghistories.com/2016/10/11/carrington-pump-house/

The National Archives of Australia Preservation Facility

The future of the 40 million Commonwealth records held by the National Archives has been bolstered through three major projects: the upgrade of the Chester Hill repository in Sydney completed in late 2015; the National Archives Preservation Facility (NAPF) in Canberra, which is well underway; and a third that is subject to further approval processes. The combined capacity will enable us to accept records until 2031.

The relocation of records to the NAPF in Canberra is an exciting evolution for the Archives. The architecturally designed, environmentally sustainable building has storage for approximately 25 per cent of our extensive collection. It will house 104 kilometres of paper records, more than nine kilometres of audio-visual records and a digital archive, ensuring the preservation and conservation of our irreplaceable collection continues into the future.
There will be disruption to access to the Canberra-based collection from 30 October 2016 to 1 July 2017, as we relocate 15 million records from multiple repositories and rehouse them in the NAPF.

Greetings from Maitland by Trevor Dickinson at Maitland Regional Art Gallery

From the Maitland Mercury report:
Renowned illustrator Trevor Dickinson is turning his vibrant lens up the Hunter, with an exhibition celebrating Maitland’s well-worn vistas.
The artworks capture everything from the instantly recognisable facade of the Grand Junction Hotel to a promotional inflatable yellow rubber duck perched atop an East Maitland bottleshop.
“All along this part of Maitland the buildings are so grand and diverse,” Mr Dickinson said, gesturing to Central Maitland.

Full article available at Maitland Mercury, 13 Oct 2016.

Benhome resident Trudy Edmonds celebrates 100th birthday

From the Maitland Mercury report:
Trudy Edmonds has become just the second Benhome resident to turn 100 in the aged care home’s 150 year history.
Mrs Edmonds notched up her century surrounded by friends and family at the home on Friday.
Her family made quite the crowd at the gathering, as Mrs Edmonds has a large number of relatives.
She married Harry Edmonds in 1933 and went on to have five children, 14 grandchildren, 31 great-grandchildren and 10 great, great-grandchildren.
Mrs Edmonds was born and raised in Horseshoe Bend, and also lived at Tenambit, Tea Gardens and Rutherford.

Full article available at Maitland Mercury, 11 Oct 2016.

Friday, October 7, 2016

Bicentenary of the Royal Botanic Gardens

To celebrate the Bicentenary of the Royal Botanic Gardens, the State Library of NSW and Sydney Living Museums invite you to explore the artistic, scientific and social histories of horticulture and gardens.
Join us for this unique, day long program of talks and discussion and take the opportunity to visit our current exhibitions, Botanicals at the Museum of Sydney and Planting Dreams at the State Library of NSW.

Session 1 - Botanical – Artists and Collectors - at the Museum of Sydney
10am for 10.30am-11.30am
Session 2 – Planting Dreams: New Perspectives on Garden History – Richard Aitken - at the State Library of NSW

12.30pm for 1pm-2pm
Session 3 – Australian Garden Culture - at the State Library of NSW
2pm for 2.30pm-3.30pm

Saturday 29 October 2016 10AM–3.30PM     More information: http://sydneylivingmuseums.com.au/events/botanical-200-years-shaping-australian-gardens 

Maitland Regional Art Gallery - 'Greetings from Maitland' exhibition

Artist: Trevor Dickinson
Greetings from Maitland  is a series of pen drawings and digital prints that forms a unique and personal portrait of Maitland.
Wherever we live, we grow so familiar with aspects of our surroundings that they gradually become invisible. This exhibition will highlight details of Maitland that deserve a second look.
The point of view is that of a visitor getting to know a city by searching for visual clues with a fresh eye, looking for differences and idiosyncrasies that only an outsider can pick up on. The intention is to find a way for the community to re-experience their city.
 
This focus gives equal importance to a decaying street sign as it does to landmark architecture; the approach is to recognise  and interpret the details that give a location its character.
The work is inspired by background locations from classic animations and the strong linework of underground comics, while all the compositions are clear and direct in order to give every subject an iconic status.
15 October 2016 – 29 January 2017 - Maitland Regional Art Gallery

Throwback Thursday: Hunter kids through the ages

From the Maitland Mercury report:
Fairfax photographers have captured the Hunter's kids at play over the years.
Look back at the fun and see if you can spot yourself and anyone you know.

Full article available at Maitland Mercury, 6 Oct 2016.

Maitland gets $45,000 in state government heritage grant roll-out.

From the Maitland Mercury report:
Two iconic Maitland buildings will receive an upgrade thanks to a state government heritage grant.
Almost $34,000 will go to Walka Water Works to refurbish 10 timber windows.
Dunmore House has been granted $5000 to replace the guttering, downpipes, and collector boxes on the first and second floors.
Maitland City Council also received $6000.
Parliamentary secretary for the Hunter Scot Macdonald announced on Wednesday. It will be drawn from the Hunter Region Heritage Grants program.

Full article available at Maitland Mercury, 5 Oct 2016.

Friday, September 30, 2016

Sydney Open

On Sunday 6 November, Sydney Open invites you in to some of the city’s most architecturally inspiring and historic buildings.
One ticket gives you access to over 50 buildings and intriguing spaces across the CBD, Barangaroo, Walsh Bay and The Rocks. Explore the full list below.
Extend your Sydney Open experience by booking a Focus Tour on Saturday 5 November, upgrading to our VIP offer or becoming a Sydney Living Museums Member.

More information: http://sydneylivingmuseums.com.au/sydneyopen/buildings-tickets

Find A Grave weekend

Find A Grave are having their 3rd Annual worldwide “Community Meetup” on the weekend of Friday 7 October, to Sunday 9 October.
With groups already registered in many countries around the world (including several states in Australia), it’s exciting to see that details of more headstones are going to be photographed and transcribed and therefore preserved.

Do your part for history. Help preserve your local cemetery.
Attend this special event or plan one of your own. Visit a cemetery in need to take photographs and videos of headstones, explore the grounds, and share stories and discoveries with others who want to make a difference. With your thoughtful contributions, history will never be forgotten.

Maitland bicentenary rescission motion is carried

From the Maitland Mercury report:
Cr Loretta Baker had called on councillors to support her in a rescission motion which recommended that council does not officially take part in commemorations in 2018 for fear it would cause stress to the local Aboriginal community.
Her aim was to quash a motion by Cr Philip Penfold passed two weeks ago which called on council to acknowledge that the bicentenary of European settlement of Maitland marks a significant occasion in the evolution of the city. The motion also said that council take the leading role in commemorating the bicentenary and formally notify Mindaribba Aboriginal Land Council of the decision. Cr Penfold’s motion was carried six votes to seven.

Full article available at Maitland Mercury, 27 Sep 2016.

Central Maitland cathedral precinct

From the Maitland Mercury report:
Central Maitland’s new cathedral precinct is expected to be officially unveiled in early November, to mark the 150th anniversary of the Catholic Diocese of Maitland-Newcastle.
The $5 million project has involved the renovation of St John’s church and major landscaping work on the surrounding grounds.
Vice Chancellor of Administration Sean Scanlon said St John’s was significant because it was the diocese’s original church.

Full article available at Maitland Mercury, 28 Sep 2016.

Maitland council to debate controversial bicentenary celebration

From the Maitland Mercury report:
A Maitland City Council decision to celebrate the city’s bicentenary, despite strong objections from council officers and some civic leaders, could be overturned at tomorrow night’s council meeting.
Councillors Loretta Baker, Bob Geoghegan and Ben Whiting have lodged a rescission motion to quash Cr Philip Penfold’s plan to celebrate the bicentenary in 2018.
Cr Penfold’s motion was passed by one vote at the September 13 council meeting where the issue was debated at length with councillors Baker and Penfold

Full article available at Maitland Mercury, 26 Sep 2016.

Friday, September 23, 2016

An Introduction to Trove’s Digitised Australian Newspapers at Maitland Genealogical Society

Maitland & District Genealogical Society, The Barracks, 17 Lindesay Street, East Maitland (next to Maitland Gaol).  Presented by Louise Gale.
Thursday 29 September 2016, 10:00 – 11:30am
Saturday 8 October 2016, 1:00pm – 2:30pm (repeated)
Cost:  Free to members of MDGS ; $5 for Non-members (refundable if you join the Society)
The digitised newspapers on the National Library of Australia’s website www.trove.nla.gov.au are indeed a treasure trove for family and local history researchers.  By searching for information about people or places, you can discover the stories that help flesh out the lives of your family.
 

Maitland Mutual Building Society buys new head office site next to Stockland Green Hills

From the Maitland Mercury report:
After three decades in Central Maitland, the Maitland Mutual Building Society – also known as The Mutual – will move its head office to East Maitland.
General manager Geoffrey Seccombe said the organisation had bought land next to the expanding Stockland Green Hills shopping centre, and would open its new head office at the site in 2019.

Full article available at Maitland Mercury, 23 Sep 2016.

"Throwback Thursday" - Hunter parades from the archives

From the Maitland Mercury report:
Take a look back at the parades and street marches of the 1960s, from the Fairfax archives.

Full article available at Maitland Mercury, 22 Sep 2016.

Anarchists Guide to House Museums – a keynote address by Franklin Vagnone

Anarchists Guide to House Museums – a keynote address by Franklin Vagnone
For one night only join “domestic-archeo-anthropologist”, co-author of the award winning Anarchists Guide to Historic House Museums, Franklin Vagnone as he shares his research and experience in best (and worst) practice in innovation and engagement with historic cultural sites.
With 25 years of experience leading non-profit management, financial oversight, fundraising, strategic planning, board relationships, award-winning cultural program and creative place-making development this talk will be of interest to anyone working in heritage, arts, culture and place making.
This event is presented by Sydney Living Museums, Museums and Galleries of NSW and the Museum of Arts and Applied Sciences, and is supported by the City of Parramatta.

When:
 Tuesday 11 October 2016, 6pm
Where: Warrane Theatre, Museum of Sydney
Cost: $22 full / $19 concession / $17 member
Registrations: franklinvagnone.eventbrite.com

Gardner Soldier Memorial at Newcastle Commemorates 100 years

The Soldier memorial of WWI commemorates 100 years on the 16th September 1916.It is believed to be Australia’s first memorial of the Great War that incorporated a soldier-statue. The memorial was a gift of Commander Frank Gardner V.D. to the soldiers of Newcastle, who will never return. He presented the memorial monument and statue which stands at the front of the former Newcastle Post Office.

Full article available at Hunter Living Histories - Coal River Working Party.

Morpeth is vying for a place on the State Heritage Register

From the Maitland Mercury report:
Morpeth is vying for a place on the State Heritage Register to preserve its historic fabric indefinitely.
 
The town’s Morpeth Heritage Conservation Group launched the application with the NSW Department of Planning on Wednesday.
It argues the Morpeth Heritage Conservation Area, which surrounds the town, meets all of the criteria used to determine whether something is of state significance.
It says the street layout hasn’t dramatically changed since 1845, which has made the Morpeth of today vastly different from other long-established towns like East Maitland.

Full article available at Maitland Mercury, 21 Sep 2016.

Thursday, September 15, 2016

Maitland councillors divided over bicentenary celebration

From the Maitland Mercury report:
Maitland councillor Loretta Baker to lodge rescission motion after feisty bicentenary debate with councillor Philip Penfold.
Maitland councillors remain divided over a controversial and at times spiteful debate this week on whether or not to celebrate the city’s bicentenary.
Council officers recommended that council does not officially take part in commemorations in 2018 for fear it would cause stress to the local Aboriginal community.
Full article available at Maitland Mercury, 15 Sep 2016.

History Council of NSW Annual History Citation 2016

Each year the History Council of NSW awards the Annual History Citation to an eminent historian to honour a lifetime of service to history. The Citation recognises individuals for outstanding research and scholarship, and acknowledges their broader contribution through teaching, leadership, mentoring and community involvement.
The History Council of NSW is pleased to award the Annual History Citation for 2016 to Associate Professor Carol Liston, in recognition of her contributions to researching and teaching history and heritage, and her service to community and local history organisations.

Trove newspapers recently added New South Wales titles

National Library of Australia - Trove Newspapers - New South Wales additions:
The Sun: Sunday Edition (Sydney, NSW: 1910)
The Teetotaller and General Newspaper (Sydney, NSW: 1842-1843)
The Temperance Advocate and Australasian Commercial and Agricultural Intelligencer (Sydney, NSW: 1840-1841)
The True Sun and New South Wales Independent Press (Sydney, NSW: 1844)
The Voice of Jacob. or, the Hebrews’ Monthly Miscellany (Sydney, NSW: 1842)
The Weekly Register of Politics, Facts and General Literature (Sydney, NSW: 1843-1845)

Maitland community groups to lead city's bicentenary of European settlement

From the Maitland Mercury report:
Maitland Council may not lead commemorations to mark the city’s bicentenary of European settlement, after consultation with Aboriginal community representatives.
Plans to commemorate the anniversary will be left to community groups, if councillors adopt a staff recommendation to be tabled on Tuesday.
In her report to councillors, Marketing and Communications manager Rachel MacLucas has recommended that council doesn’t officially take part in commemorations in 2018.

Full article available at Maitland Mercury, 12 Sep 2016.

Ghost tour of Grossmann House

From the Maitland Mercury report:
Within the creaking, ancient frames of Maitland’s historic homes and buildings, paranormal investigator Renata Daniel sees spirits.
Ms Daniel, who has worked as a psychic and ghost tour operator for decades, will take willing participants on a trip through the tangled history of the iconic Grossmann House later this month.

Full article available at Maitland Mercury, 8 Sep 2016.

Maitland's historic Family Hotel

From the Maitland Mercury report:
There are several mysteries the new management of Maitland’s historic Family Hotel are trying to unravel.
The 156-year-old pub is believed to have a resident ghost, was supposed to be the scene of a murder, has a hidden attic still furnished with original furniture and a ballroom with a sprung dance floor.
General Manager Neil Hedges is trying to find answers and has put out a call to Hunter folk in a bid to learn more about the landmark establishment.

Full article available at Maitland Mercury, 5 Sep 2016.

Friday, September 2, 2016

Hunter sport in the 1960s

From the Maitland Mercury report:
Photo Gallery - Take a look at the local sport stars from the Hunter region in the 1960s, straight from the Fairfax archives.
The rules might not have changed, but the uniforms definitely have.                

Full article available at Maitland Mercury, 1 Sep 2016.                

Inside History Magazine : Winter 2016

In issue 35, the Winter (Jul-Sep) edition of Australia’s favourite history and genealogy magazine, Inside History, you’ll discover:
  • Expert photo-dating tips to trace your family
  • Colonial Australia as captured by the underrated artist ST Gill
  • 130+ new family history resources online
  • How to write your ancestor’s life story
  • The Anzac pilgrimage: practical tips + military history insights for visiting the Western Front battlefields 100 years on
  • What a rare diary hidden for 150 years reveals about Melbourne’s high society – and the city’s surprise link to the American Civil War
  • Australia’s war in the Pacific, in the skies and on the seas: untold chapters of our World War II history
  • An iconic World War I film and its mysterious real-life rescuers whose identity still puzzles historians
  • The groundbreaking 1600s map of Australia being restored
  • Stories of AIF men and women among the UK’s Imperial War Museums records

History Week 2016 - Newcastle Region Library

Supporting your Community
In this History Week talk, the Newcastle Region Library will delve into the careers of some of the Mayors and councillors of Newcastle’s suburban councils. Presented by Local History Coordinator, Sue Ryan.
When: Monday 5 September 2016, 10:00-11:00am
Where: Wallsend District Library, 30 Bunn Street, Wallsend NSW 2287
Cost: Free
Contact: coreilly@ncc.nsw.gov.au or 02 4974 5330
Find out more
Presented by Newcastle Region Library.

Friday, August 26, 2016

100 years of Red Cross records donated to State Library of New South Wales

Australian Red Cross is donating 100 years of its NSW archive to the State Library of NSW, providing an extraordinary record of a global organisation that was practically launched in Australia with a pair of hand-made knitted socks.

According to NSW State Librarian & Chief Executive, Alex Byrne: “Red Cross has been on the front of almost every significant event in recent history starting with the First World War to more recent natural disasters – so this significant archive, dating from 1914 to 2014, is an invaluable addition to the State Library’s rich collections relating to life in Australia.”

The archive tells the story of Red Cross’ humanitarian work, its volunteers, supporters and the people it has helped across NSW through some 7,400 photographs, over 500 boxes of manuscripts, posters and memorabilia, 40 framed pictures and Red Cross publications.

Full media release here

Look Who's Talking - Local History - Maitland City Library

Horseshoe Bend
Characterised by narrow streets and laneways, as well as a mixture of architectural styles spanning the 19th and 20th centuries, Horseshoe Bend was one of the earliest settled areas in Maitland. Sometimes referred to as ‘The Bend’ and so named for the shape of the river when Europeans first settled there, Horseshoe Bend has a unique and intriguing history.

Join us as we take to the streets of Horseshoe Bend to meet local identities in celebration of NSW History Week. 
Sunday 4 September
10.30am - 12.00pm
Meet at Maitland Regional Art Gallery 10.15am
Free

Book now
Look Who's Talking 2016 

History Week 2016 : Neighbours

History Council of New South Wales.
Download the History Week postcard (PDF 976 KB) or poster (PDF 2 MB). If you would like copies of the postcard or poster, please contact us.

Annual History Lecture
Neighbours – and heroes
When: 6pm-9pm, Wedesday 7 September 2016
Where: The Mint, 10 Macquarie Street, Sydney
Tickets: $45 HCNSW members / $50 General admission (excl fees)
Contact: 02 9252 8715, admin@historycouncilnsw.org.au
BOOK NOW
How have Australians thought of themselves as ‘neighbours’ in the Asia-Pacific region? Professor Heather Goodall will look at how many Australians have had the courage to cross borders – taking risks to build relationships across old borders and new borders, cultural borders and ethnic borders. Find out more

Gould Genealogy new website

“Brand new website!” that’s what you’re greeted with when you go to www.gould.com.au now. That’s right, we’ve finally updated our website. We know it’s been needed for a while, but it’s not been an easy task finding something that can cater to our website’s needs. Anyway we have one. It’s up. And it’s bright and shiny and hopefully you will find it works well for you (if not, please do let us know).
This year (2016) marks our 40th birthday, and of those years we’ve actually been online for 20 of them, so it seemed very timely to get a new website to celebrate.

Maitland Library fountain in working order again

From the Maitland Mercury report:
The fountain, on land opposite Maitland Courthouse near the Belmore Bridge, was switched on again this week, as work continued on the grounds around it.
Maitland City Council workers have renovated and repaired the fountain, which was built in 1972.
Cr Penfold has been a vocal advocate for the revamp.

Full article available at Maitland Mercury, 23 Aug 2016.

Vietnam Veterans recognised in Maitland and Cessnock 50 years after Long Tan

From the Maitland Mercury report:
In August 1966, 108 ANZAC soldiers stationed outside Long Tan fought off thousands of hostile Viet Cong in one of the first, and one of the bloodiest battles of the Vietnam war.
Half-a-century later, at the site of the battle and at memorial sites across the Hunter and the nation, Australians reflected. In Maitland a crowd filled Maitland Park to lay wreaths at the cenotaph.

Full article available at Maitland Mercury, 18 Aug 2016.

Friday, August 19, 2016

Motorfest Maitland 2016 on Sunday

From the Maitland Mercury report:
Fans of chrome-covered classic beauties will rejoice as Motorfest Maitland returns to the Showground on Sunday.
For the last six years, Motorfest has driven to make the Hunter a mecca for the type of car lovers who fanatically restore and modify hotrods, street machines, bikes and trucks.
Part exhibition of amazing machines and human creativity, part trade show with hundreds of cars on show.

Full article available at Maitland Mercury, 17 Aug 2016.

Vietnam Veterans recognised in Maitland and Cessnock 50 years after Long Tan

From the Maitland Mercury report:
In August 1966, 108 ANZAC soldiers stationed outside Long Tan fought off thousands of hostile Viet Cong in one of the first, and one of the bloodiest battles of the Vietnam war. 
Eighteen Australians died and 24 were injured. The battle of Long Tan came to identify and symbolise the plight of Australians soldiers who served in the conflict. 
Half-a-century later, at the site of the battle and at memorial sites across the Hunter and the nation, Australians reflected. In Maitland a crowd filled Maitland Park to lay wreaths at the cenotaph.

Full article available at Maitland Mercury, 18 Aug 2016.

RAHS/OHNSW – Oral History in Conversation: Across Communities and Contexts

August 27 @ 2:00 pm - 3:30 pm

In this panel discussion, three oral historians will discuss their use of oral history across a range of communities and institutional contexts. Based in a museum, a council and a hospital, three oral history projects are working to collect a diverse range of stories.
  • Sydney Jewish Museums’ “community stories” project uses oral history to assist members of the Jewish community to record their life histories.
  • City of Sydney Council’s Barani project has collected stories from local indigenous communities.
  • The Sacred Heart Community Palliative Care Biography Service offers the opportunity for people reaching the end of their lives to record their memories.
In this “in Conversation” event, the panel will reflect on the practice of oral history today and examine its role in the lives of families and diverse communities.
The event will be held prior to the Oral History NSW Annual General Meeting.
Cost: RAHS/OHNSW Members $15; Non-Members $20
BUY TICKETS

History Council of New South Wales -Annual History Lecture

Neighbours – and heroes

When: 6pm-9pm, Wedesday 7 September 2016
Where: The Mint, 10 Macquarie Street, Sydney
Tickets: $45 HCNSW members / $50 General admission (excl fees)
Contact: 02 9252 8715, admin@historycouncilnsw.org.au
BOOK NOW
How have Australians thought of themselves as ‘neighbours’ in the Asia-Pacific region? Professor Heather Goodall will look at how many Australians have had the courage to cross borders – taking risks to build relationships across old borders and new borders, cultural borders and ethnic borders. Find out more

Friday will mark 67 years since the first migrant ship arrived in the Hunter

From the Maitland Mercury report:
It may be 67 years on but Vitaly (Victor) Lupish, remembers disembarking the MV Fairsea at Newcastle’s Lee Wharf as if it was yesterday.
Aged 14, with no English and eyes as big as saucers, Mr Lupish set foot on Australian soil to begin a journey that would shape the rest of his life.
Friday marks the 67th anniversary of the arrival of the Fairsea which carried 1896 refugees from Europe to Australia. It was the first migrant ship to Newcastle.
Mr Lupish said every year at this time he stops to pause and recall that day he and his family entered a brave new world, a move they would never regret.

Full article available at Maitland Mercury, 17 Aug 2016.

Cranky Handle Rally returns

From the Maitland Mercury report:
The Cranky Handle Rally, the Hunter’s showcase of vintage machinery, will be held this weekend at the Richmond Valley Railway Museum.
The museum is located just south of Kurri Kurri and the rally will run from 10am Saturday until 4pm Sunday.
Vintage stationary engines, steam engines, tractors, vintage cars, trucks, bikes and memorabilia will all make an appearance.

Full article available at Maitland Mercury, 16 Aug 2016.

Thursday, August 11, 2016

Australian War Memorial - Big things in store

Hosted at the Memorial’s conservation facility and storage hub in Mitchell, Big things in store is a unique opportunity for the whole family to experience one of the world’s greatest military collections.
Saturday 10 September
9 am to 3 pm
Treloar Technology Centre, Mitchell

Entry is by donation, with proceeds going to support the work of the Australian War Memorial.

Cranky Handle Rally - Hunter Valley Vintage Farm Machinery Club Inc.

20th & 21st August 2016

at Richmond Vale Railway Museum

Located in the historic Richmond Main Colliery site, Leggett's Drive (B82, Richmond Vale4km south of Kurri Kurri in the Hunter Valley, NSW

In association with Richmond Vale Railway Museum, an invitation for all with a love for old machinery and equipment, to see engines, tractors, trucks, cars, machinery, bikes and memorabilia, at the 2016 Cranky Handle Rally.

See a large display of vintage agricultural machinery, lovingly restored while some remain in their "working clothes".

Stationery engines, tool collections, tractors, trucks, cars and bikes from yesteryear, on display at the Historic Richmond Vale Railway Museum. Inspect the mining museum in the old Administration Building, view underground mining equipment and enjoy a train ride to Pelaw Main.

For further details contact the Show Organiser:  Peter DRAPER - 02 4966 2813 OR 0418 673 816

The Hunter’s history - photos

From the Maitland Mercury:
Take a look at what the Hunter used to look like, thanks to the Fairfax archives.

Full article available at Maitland Mercury, 11 Aug 2016.

Building the Maitland bypass in the late 1980s

From the Maitland Mercury
Work has started to wrap-up on the New England Highway overpass at Maitland. Before the new road is unveiled, take a look back at one of the largest road construction projects in Maitland – the bypass.

Full article available at Maitland Mercury, 4 Aug 2016.

Friday, August 5, 2016

History Werek 2016 - Links Forged with Neighbouring Towns: Dungog Cottage Hospital

The Dungog Historical Society Inc present an exhibition at the Dungog Library, which will showcase the links forged by Dungog and nearby communities through the Dungog Cottage Hospital.
When: Saturday 3 September to 11 September 2016, 10:00am-5:00pm.
Where: Dungog Library, Mackay Street,
Dungog NSW 2420
Cost: Free
Contact: mkingston5@bigpond.com or 02 4992 2094
Presented by the Dungog Historical Society Inc.

History Week 2016 - Neighbours: Maitland Walking Tour

Characterised by narrow streets, laneways and a mixture of architectural styles spanning the 19th and 20th centuries, Horseshoe Bend was one of the earliest settled areas in Maitland. Sometimes referred to as ‘The Bend’ and so named for the shape of the river when Europeans first settled there, Horseshoe Bend has a unique and intriguing history. Join the Maitland City Library as they take to the streets of Horseshoe Bend to meet local identities in celebration of NSW History Week.
When: Sunday 4 September 2016, 10:30am-2:00pm
Where: Meet at Maitland Regional Art Gallery
230 High Street
Maitland NSW 2320
Cost: Free
Contact: programmes@maitland.nsw.gov.au or 02 4933 6952
Find out more
Presented by Maitland City Library.

Tocal's Peek Into the Past 2016

From the Maitland Mercury report:
Plumes of gunsmoke, the smell of campfires, the metallic clink of the blacksmiths hammer – Tocal Homestead was alive with the sights, sounds and smells of Australia’s colonial past for Peek Into The Past.

Full article available at Maitland Mercury, 31 Jul 2016.

Photographer-in-residence program will focus on showcasing Maitland Library precinct

From the Maitland Mercury report:
Maitland Library is about to take on a new look with a photographer-in-residence program set to transform the landmark building.
Earlier this year council engaged professional photographer Paul Foley for the program.
The program includes a series of themed photoshoots, guest curation of the #mymaitland Instagram account, photo walks in which members of the public could participate and an exhibition of a selection of the images taken during the program.

Full article available at Maitland Mercury, 30 Jul 2016.

Friday, July 29, 2016

Flashback Friday: Olympians from the Hunter 1956-2016 | photos

From the Maitland Mercury report:
With a week to go until the start of the 2016 Rio Olympics, we look back to the Olympians who called the Hunter home in the past.
From 1956, to this year’s announced competitors, take a look at the Hunter’s great sporting champions.

An Introduction to Oral History seminar

The RAHS and Oral History NSW (OHNSW) present ‘An Introduction to Oral History: key principles that everyone should know’ at History House on Thursday 18th August. This talk introduces historians of all kinds to the possibilities and pitfalls of ‘making memories’ or doing oral history interviews with people about their experiences of the past. It asks why they matter as an historical source and how they stand in relation to the traditional written newspapers and archives.

Come along and hear Oral History NSW President Professor Paula Hamilton discuss the value of oral history and share examples from her own oral history practice. Paula will discuss its value in particular circumstances and whether it is suitable for local and family historians to add to their existing expertise with this historical method. Paula will also share examples from her own work on local places in suburbs of Sydney.

Date and Time: Thursday 18th August @ 11am – 1pm
Cost: RAHS/OHNSW Members $25/Non-Members $30
Venue: History House – 133 Macquarie Street, Sydney
Click here for more information and details of how to book online.

Historic recreations at Tocal's Peek Into The Past 2016

From the Maitland Mercury report:
Tocal will take visitors back to a time of bushrangers and bounty hunters with its annual Peek Into The Past on Sunday July 31. Special guests, the 73rd Regiment of Foot, will be encamped at Tocal Homestead in their iconic, red coats.
This re-enactment group represents in faithful detail, the daily lives of the soldiers and their families of the original 73rd Regiment of Foot. 
Not only the redcoat soldiers uniforms, firearms and accoutrements but also their camp, kitchen facilities and traditions.

Full article available at Maitland Mercury, 25 Jul 2016.

Francis Greenway High School celebrates 50 year anniversary

From the Maitland Mercury report:
On August 3, 1966 a small cohort of about 100 students donned the Francis Greenway High School uniform for the first time.
Among them was year eight student Barbara Jennings.
“A lot has changed,” Ms Jennings said.
“When it opened it was just three building blocks.”
50 years later to the day, Ms Jennings and her much bigger school will mark half-a-century since gates opened with an assembly and cake-cutting.

Full article available at Maitland Mercury, 25 Jul 2016.

Historic Koreelah House on Bourke Street, Maitland, sells at auction

From the Maitland Mercury report:
Koreelah House built in 1851 in Bourke Street, is one of the city’s few homes with Georgian grandeur remaining.
Its sale through Maitland’s PRD Realty sparked great interest from about 60 local, Sydney and Newcastle bidders.
Selling agent Rhonda Nyquist said about 20 groups inspected the property prior to Saturday’s auction with the strongest interest from locals.
Koreelah is a much admired and significant Bourke Street property, nestled on a prime, level, double block with rear lane access.

Full article available at Maitland Mercury, 21 Jul 2016.

Friday, July 8, 2016

Flashback Friday: Maitland business through the years

From the Maitland Mercury report:
Take a look at the changing face of business in Maitland from the Fairfax archives.

Available at Maitland Mercury, July 8, 2016.

On War with Virginia Passmore - Military Geologists in the First World War

Military Geologists in the First World War - Virginia Passmore puts the work of fellow Australian geologist Edgeworth David into context.
In association with the Canberra Great War Study Group, the Estaminet.

Tuesday 19 July
5.30pm - 6.30pm, free
Theatre, Lower Ground 1
National Library of Australia

A Future for the Past: Rum Hospital Symposium

On the 200th anniversary of its completion, Sydney Living Museums invites you to discover the extraordinary history of The Rum Hospital and the ongoing story of its surviving buildings in a full day symposium “A Future For The Past.” From its design, construction and original function serving convict patients, through to the adaptive re-use of its northern and southern wings as Parliament House and the Sydney branch of the Royal Mint respectively, the Rum Hospital site is interwoven with some of the most important events in New South Wales history.

When: 9:30am to 5pm, Saturday 30 July 2016
Where: The Gold Melting Room
The Mint, 10 Macquarie St, Sydney
Cost: $125 General
$100 Concession/Member (includes History Council of NSW members)
$75 Student
Ticket includes lunch, refreshments and a complimentary copy of The Mint Project book (RRP $65)
Bookings essential. Call 1300 448 849 or book online.

Colour in Darkness: Images from the First World War

The State Library of NSW has just launched a new exhibition, Colour in Darkness: Images from the First World War. The exhibition draws together over 150 war photographs which originally toured Australia in the early 1920s, drawing huge crowds. Many of the photographs were taken by soldiers in the field or while on leave – with some even taken by enemy soldiers. The collection depicts sweeping desert views of Light Horse troops on the march, scenes of devastation on the Western front, and rare snapshots of occupied Germany.
When: Saturday 25 June 2016 to Sunday 21 August 2016, 9am-5pm.
Where: Exhibition Galleries
State Library of New South Wales
Macquarie Street, Sydney.
Cost: Free.
The images were printed and hand-coloured at Colarts Studio in Melbourne, which was established by Captain William Donovan Joynt VC.

Maitland City Hall of Fame opens online

From the Maitland Mercury report:
Some of Maitland’s most successful academics, politicians, artists and sportspeople have become the inaugural inductees into the Maitland City Hall of Fame.
A total of 25 individuals local heroes, including Athel D’Ombrain, Ruth Cracknell, Cheryl Kernot, Garry Barton and Ken Tubman, are being inducted, 15 posthumously.
The inductees, their families and friends and civic leaders took part in the historical event which was held on Thursday at Maitland Regional Art Gallery.

Full article available at Maitland Mercury, July 7, 2016.

Former Maitland councillor Ray Fairweather has called for a full time caretaker at historic Walka Water Works

From the Maitland Mercury report:
Former Maitland councillor Ray Fairweather spent almost 20 years working at Walka Water Works, planting more than 11,000 trees and promoting it as the city’s leading tourist attraction.
The man once known as "Mr Walka" has been sitting on the sidelines listening to recent debate about what Maitland City Council should do with the historic establishment. His answer: “Leave it alone.”

Full article available at Maitland Mercury, July 6, 2016.

Maitland's historic Walka Water Works backdrop for new show

From the Maitland Mercury report:
Walka Water Works is being used as the backdrop for a promotional video on Channel Seven’s latest reality cooking show hosted by celebrity patissier Adriano Zumbo.
Zumbo’s Just Desserts will search for Australia’s sweetest home cooks and is schedule to go to air after the Olympic Games.
The Seven Network started to promote the show on air the same week Maitland City Council announced it would place on public exhibition a draft masterplan for the site and Cr Loretta Baker suggested turning it into a day spa and wellness centre.

Full article available at Maitland Mercury, July 4, 2016.

Sunday, July 3, 2016

Invitation to a Commemoration of Captain James Cook and Sir Joseph Banks

St. James Church extends an invitation to attend a Commemoration of the lives of Captain James Cook, FRS, RN and Sir Joseph Banks, Bt, GCB, PRS at 3pm on Sunday 24th July 2016 at St. James Church – 173 King Street, Sydney.
This tribute will occur in the context of a service of Choral Evensong, during which the Chief Justice and Lieutenant Governor of NSW, the Honourable Tom Bathurst AC, will unveil a plaque in their memory, and Mr Paul Brunton OAM, Emeritus Curator of the State Library will give an address.
St. James Church has kindly offered to reserve seats for RAHS Members at this event. RAHS Members can RSVP to history@rahs.org.au or call (02) 9247 8001 by the 19th July.

Nostalgic glassware on display at Campbell's Store Morpeth

From the Maitland Mercury report:
A nostalgic exhibition has opened at Campbell’s Store, Morpeth this morning.
Remember Nana’s green and amber glasses and vases? Well they’re aplenty at the Depression Glass Exhibition.
More than 500 items of 80-plus year old glass produced during the 1930s are on display and it is rare to find so many pieces available for sale and on exhibition, said Campbell’s Store owner Trevor Richards.

Full article available at Maitland Mercury, July 1, 2016.

Calls for Maitland community input on how to use Walka Water Works

From the Maitland Mercury report:
A Maitland councillor has flagged plans for a day spa and wellness centre for Maitland’s historic Walka Water Works.
Cr Loretta Baker told this week’s council meeting that the site’s pumphouse would make an ideal location for a day spa when councillors were discussing an interpretation plan for the site.

Full article available at Maitland Mercury, July 1, 2016.

Maitland Council adopts masterplan for Walka Water Works

From the Maitland Mercury report:
An educational hub, a tourist attraction of national significance and a spa are just three of the possibilities for Maitland’s historic Walka Water Works.Maitland City Council unanimously approved a master plan for the 64 hectare site at a meeting this week and councillors couldn’t be happier.The water works property is owned by the State Government but council pays substantial maintenance costs each year.

Full article available at Maitland Mercury, June 28, 2016.

Maitland's cathedral precinct project

From the Maitland Mercury report:
The proposed revamp of Central Maitland’s cathedral precinct is closer to receiving welcome state government funding.
The project has been shortlisted for a $3.95 million share in the state’s mining royalties as part of the latest round of the Resources for Regions program. Maitland City Council and the Catholic Diocese of Maitland-Newcastle have lodged an application for the funding.

Full article available at Maitland Mercury, June 26, 2016.

New beginnings at Maitland's historic Walka Water Works

From the Maitland Mercury report:
Historic Walka Water Works is poised for a new beginning with Maitland City Council tipped to adopt a master plan for the site.
Councillors will vote at a meeting on Tuesday night whether to adopt the plan which will make the historical, political and cultural significance of the site accessible to the community.
Walka is located two kilometres north of Central Maitland and comprises 64.2 hectares of Crown land.
Full article available at Maitland Mercury, June 26, 2016.

Friday, June 24, 2016

Is your collection killing you?

Is your collection killing you?
Which items in your collection are toxic, dangerous and even potentially fatal?
After years of working in museums and collections, in Australia and overseas, Victoria and Andrew Pearce have identified a wide range of items, which are toxic, dangerous and even potentially fatal.
Qualified conservators, will cover off the identification and handling risks of items pre-existing in collection stores or presented by donors.

This workshop is designed to provide specialist knowledge of the material science of collections (what things are made from) and how to identify risk. The workshop covers many commonplace items like toxic paints, plastics and heavy metals, and is designed for staff and volunteers in small museums and mixed collections. This is an advanced course for managers, intake officers and staff who need to handle collection items, particularly if your institution does not have a conservation lab on site.

Location: National Film and Sound Archive conference room
Date: 11th and 12th July
Time: 9-5
Participant cost is $630+ GST per person and includes digital reference reading brick.

To book: There are limited places so call Endangered Heritage Pty LTD (02) 62828386
 

Writing the Family Saga

As part of a suite of Family History units that The University of Tasmania offers, for the first time in 2016 the university is running a unit entitled Writing the Family Saga, commencing on 27 June and continuing until the 6th August.

The unit is fully online and HECS Scholarships are available that cover half of the tuition fees for the unit, meaning that the cost of the unit is $391 in addition to the Student Services and Amenities Fee (SSAF) a cost of $43.50 per unit. Writing the Family Saga provides the opportunity to develop skills in writing fiction and/or non-fiction, based on genealogical records.

Applications are open online here: http://www.utas.edu.au/arts/writing-the-family-saga
If you have any questions, please get in touch by emailing ASC.Contact@utas.edu.au or calling (03) 6226

The Worst Woman in Sydney: The Life and Crimes of Kate Leigh

On the 7 July, author and historian Leigh Straw will presenting a talk on her new true-crime biography The Worst Woman in Sydney: The Life and Crimes of Kate Leigh at the Jam Gallery, Bondi Junction.

The legend of Kate Leigh, Sydney’s famed brothel madam, sly grog seller and drug dealer, has loomed large in TV’s Underbelly and every other account of Sydney’s criminal history from the 1920s to the 1960s. But she has never had a biography of her own.
Despite having more than 100 criminal convictions to her name, Kate Leigh is also remembered as a local hero, giving money to needy families and supporting her local community through the hard times of Depression and war. Here, novelist and historian Leigh Straw teases out the full story of how this wayward Reformatory girl from Dubbo made a fortune in eastern Sydney and defied the gender stereotyping of the time to become a leading underworld figure.
WHEN: Thursday, 7 July 2016 from 6.30 PM to 8.00PM
WHERE: Jam Gallery, 195 Oxford St, Bondi Junction, NSW 2022
RSVP: www.leighstraw.eventbrite.com.au (spaces limited)

Historic Maitland Gaol was closed to the public this week for filming

From the Maitland Mercury report:
Toni Collette spotted on set at Maitland Gaol -
Historic Maitland Gaol was closed to the public this week for filming.
The staff were very tight-lipped about the mysterious project, simply saying it was for a television program. Within days of the closure international star and Australian actress Toni Collette was spotted on set at Maitland Gaol.

Full article available at Maitland Mercury, June 24, 2016.

Catholic Diocese celebrates 150 years in Maitland

From the Maitland Mercury report:
The Catholic Diocese of Maitland-Newcastle and the Maitland Regional Museum have officially opened an exhibit that celebrates the history of Catholicism in the region.
The “pop -up museum”, which will occupy St John’s Hall on Cathedral Street until July 10, marks 150 years since Maitland’s first bishop – James Murray – was appointed.

Full article available at Maitland Mercury, June 21, 2016.

Friday, June 17, 2016

D. Sim & Sons honour board to be displayed at Morpeth Museum, Maitland RSL Sub Branch

From the Maitland Mercury report:
A piece of history linking some of the region’s young men to World War I has been uncovered after almost half a century and will now be preserved indefinitely.
An honour board of the employees of D. Sim & Sons was discovered in descendant Ian Sim’s shed in Lorn during a clean out. The board, which was lathered in dust, holds the names of 12 men who worked for the business and lost their lives during the war, including two Sim family members R. Sim and D.R Sim. 

Full article available at Maitland Mercury, June 14, 2016.

Hunter residents share their stories from Greta Migrant Camp

From the Maitland Mercury report:
We asked Hunter residents to share their family stories of Greta Migrant Camp. The personal accounts we received were ones of sadness, love, fear and triumph.
Here is a small glimpse at the Hunter’s story:.......

Full article available at Maitland Mercury, June 14, 2016.

Royal Australian Historical Society event - RAHS/WEA Lecture

History with a Difference: Researching and Writing Thematic History with a Local Focus

Taking a thematic approach, Paul Convy will discuss the history of Lebanese immigration to Australia and the contributions made by the Lebanese, in common with all immigrants to New South Wales, to our local and national cultural landscape. Using the major themes of Lebanese settlement in NSW from the 1880s: migration; commerce and labour; rural and urban settlement; religion; leisure and social institutions; and civic affairs, Paul will then discuss the project to research and write Lebanese Settlement in New South Wales: A Thematic History.

Date and Time: Wednesday 29th June 11am – 1pm
Venue: History House, 133 Macquarie Street, Sydney
Cost: RAHS/WEA Members $32/Non-Members $35
Online Bookings: https://www.weasydney.com.au/class/RWTHLF-1
Alternatively call WEA on (02) 9264 2781
http://www.rahs.org.au/coming-june-history-house/

Major Carl Christie of Ashtonfield honoured for service to military history

From the Maitland Mercury report:
Military service is in Carl Christie’s blood.
The 78-year-old from Ashtonfield, who spent most of his working life serving his country, has been honoured with an Order of Australia Medal for service to military history preservation and to the community.
While he officially retired 20 years ago, the former Major is still working, this time in a voluntary capacity for his beloved Fort Scratchley.

Full article available at Maitland Mercury, June 13, 2016.

“Doug” Pyle recognised for service to Maitland Community with Order of Australia Medal

From the Maitland Mercury report:
Mr Pyle has been a member of Maitland Repertory Theatre for almost 70 years and has held various positions including president, treasurer, actor, director, stage construction and management.
A foundation member of the Australian Clothing and Textiles Museum, Mr Pyle was also a period costume model for more than 50 years.
He has 70 years experience as a water divining demonstrator at Tocal open days and volunteers at the Homestead Visitors Centre.

Full article available at Maitland Mercury, June 13, 2016.

Saturday, June 11, 2016

Greta Migrant Camp - untold stories about the people who lived there

From the Maitland Mercury report:
Alek Schulha's book on Greta Migrant Camp tells the untold stories about the people who lived there.

The triumphs and tragedies, the racism and persecution, the everyday life in Greta Migrant Camp will be documented in a book set to be released later this year.
Former Fairfax journalist Alek Schulha has almost completed three years of interviews set to be printed in a powerful publication lifting the lid on what really went on in the camp.
This month marks the 67th anniversary of the opening of the camp. It closed in 1960 after more than 100,000 refugees passed through it escaping war torn Europe after World War II.

Full article available at Maitland Mercury, June 9, 2016.

Call for nominations – Heritage Council of NSW

Call for nominations for:
  • State Heritage Register Committee
  • Approvals Committee
  • Heritage Committee
  • Technical Conservation Committee
  • Grants Committee
Applications are invited for appointment of members to the above Committees. The Committees advise the Heritage Council of NSW on matters relating to the effective management and promotion of NSW’s heritage.
Click here for an Information Pack: http://tinyurl.com/gowoast
Closing date for nominations is 11:59pm 20th July 2016

State Library of NSW - Max Dupain Exhibition Negative Archive

Max Dupain (1911–1992) is perhaps Australia’s best-known and most influential 20th century photographer.
The Library recently acquired the Max Dupain Exhibition Negative Archive with more than 25,000 negatives that were not part of his commercial business. Max Dupain and Associates was well-known for its architectural and commercial photography.
The archive, which concentrates on the 1930s, 40s and 50s when Dupain was at the height of his creative powers, includes many of his most iconic works including The Sunbaker, Jean with Wire Mesh and The Meat Queue. The Library is pleased to be the custodian of this enormous archive representing the full range of Max Dupain’s creative expression and is in the process of making this large collection accessible.

Plaques documenting Les Darcy fights not stolen from East Maitland statue

From the Maitland Mercury report:
Maitland City Council announced on Wednesday that the missing plaques weren’t the result of vandalism, as feared by Les Darcy Committee members, but were removed by them earlier this week to allow maintenance on the iconic statue.
Engineers removed the plaques after noticing the base of the statue was separating.
Council projects and building services manager Graeme Matthews said that, ironically, the plaques were removed to prevent their theft.

Full article available at Maitland Mercury, June 7, 2016.

War exhibition Courage to Care officially opens at Maitland Regional Art Gallery

From the Maitland Mercury report:
Courage to Care is a travelling exhibition and educational outreach program, featuring Holocaust survivors as living historians recounting their rescue stories.
The exhibition highlights historical acts of courage in order to create an understanding of how everyone has the ability to stand up to racism and discrimination.

Full article available at Maitland Mercury, June 5, 2016.

Sunday, June 5, 2016

Catholic Maitland-Newcastle Diocese 150th anniversary of the arrival of the first resident bishop of the Diocese, Bishop Murray

An exhibition celebrating the 150th anniversary of the arrival of the first resident bishop of the Diocese, Bishop Murray
Jointly presented by  Maitland Regional Museum and the Maitland-Newcastle DioceseSt John’s Hall (the old Pro-Cathedral) in Cathedral Street, Maitland
Between Monday 20th June and Sunday 10th July 2016
The exhibition celebrates the 150th anniversary of the arrival of the first resident bishop of the Diocese, Bishop Murray and presents the stories of people, families, groups and institutions within the Church or as part of the Church’s relationship with wider society, with particular emphasis on our region.Official opening 10.30 am Tuesday 21st June-ALL WELCOME
Open daily 10.00 am – 3.00 pm during this period
Further details & Bookings: Janece 02 49334450 or janece.mcdonald@newcastle.edu.au  Or Michael.belcher@bigpond.com