NEWSLETTER May 1999

Hi there everyone

At our May Committee meeting it was decided that in future we will send you a monthly Newsletter rather than the boring minutes as in the past. The Newsletter will contain general information, committee recommendations and news. If you would like to write something of interest to be included please send it to me.

THE WRITINGS OF THOMAS MARTIN

The recent presentation of a Dramatised Reading of the above was highly successful. Steve Walter and Mark Garner did a terrific job of the readings, bringing that early history of the area to us in a very palatable form. Andy Rigby’s humourous and sensitive accompaniment on harp, flute, whistle, accordion and even our old harmonium added a special life to a very special performance. The performances were topped off by delightful refreshments served by our catering committee. Thanks to all concerned. One of our members and her husband travelled from Melbourne to be part of the event. There is some talk of further presentations of this work – if you missed out and are interested, please let us know it you would like a repeat! To our delight (and surprise) we raised $443 plus donations of $110. A great effort!!

NEXT MEETING

Among those who attended the Saturday afternoon performance of the above were Ken Martin, grandson of the aforementioned Thomas, his wife Moira, their daughter and their granddaughter. We were very pleased when Ken consented to be our guest speaker at the next meeting to tell us his story of his grandfather. The meeting will be held at 1.30pm on Monday next, May 17. I am sorry that this is such short notice but we would love to see you here.

PARKS VICTORIA GRANT AND ”THE FENCE”

Quotes for the fence have been received from Euan Campbell – $2555, Mick Tangey – $2252 and Nigel Wales from Absolutely Fencing – $3420. As the grant from Parks Victoria was for $1000, this leaves a considerable amount to be contributed by the society. Liz Coady pointed out that our group is a small aging one and asked was the idea of a picket fence a good one? Janet Trudgeon started off a new train of thought. She suggested that an application for a board displaying a photo of the old courthouse with the picket fence be substituted for the original ”fence” application. Giselle Neall seconded this and the motion was carried. After the discussion we decided that the board should be one of the ”Golden Way” series designed and funded through the Central Goldfields Shire. You will remember that we were successful in getting two for Newstead), and these are soon to be installed.

ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING

A very small but happy group gathered for this meeting in April and the following office-bearers were elected:

President: Liz Coady

Vice President Alan Burgess

Secretary Dawn Angliss

Treasurer Janet Trudgeon

Committee Dorothy Clark

Committee Joan Culvenor

Committee Giselle Neall

Committee Peter Skilbeck

Congratulations and best wishes to all.

Dave Clark then shared with us some very poignant memories of his service in World War 11. It was generous of him and we appreciated it very much. Thank you David.

MEMBERSHIP AND RESEARCH FEES

After our treasurer gave us a breakdown on where the money obtained by our membership fees goes, (insurance, affiliation, postage, etc) it was decided that the fees remain as they are for this year. As these are now due, enclosed is the form to return with your fees for the coming year. With regard to research requests, a standard letter has been prepared stating that ”your request for information has been received and the fee for this will be $10.”

HERITAGE STUDY

It was decided that the Shire be approached for the rights to copy and sell these. The finished study has already been requested by several people and it is to be hoped that this will be approved of by the Shire.

In the meantime, work goes on at the courthouse on Monday mornings. John Lawton has undertaken the painting of the entry porch for which we are very grateful. Liz is putting the catalogue on to computer. Janet is continuing collecting data from the Echo on microfilm which I am transferring to the computer. We warmly welcome anyone else who would like help. Looking forward to seeing you at our May meeting,

Back to Newsletter Archives

Web Design: Brian Dieckmann Page last updated: 20 December 2008