ABOUT THE ASSOCIATION

The First Cornish Association in Bendigo was formed in 1913 with Sir John Quick as its founding President.

It is not known how long it was in existence however there are reports it was operating in the late 1920's

No doubt the start of the great depression helped contribute to its demise

As the Bicentennial year of 1988 approached there was a renewed interest in Genealogy and a large number of people had a desire to learn more about their Cornish heritage.

This resulted in the formation of the Cornish Association of Bendigo and District Inc.

It was formed in September 1986 with Edward (Ted) Hocking taking on the role of President.

There is no doubt that Bendigo has the largest number of Cornish descendants of any locality in Australia and a desire by so many to discover their heritage has enabled the Association to survive well for over 23 years.

The Monthly Meetings were held at the Eaglehawk Fire Station on the first Wednesday of each month at 8 p.m. until the winding up in September 2011.

The main aims of the Association were to foster goodwill amongst people of Cornish descent, promote the Cornishness of our beautiful city and to maintain strong ties with Cornwall.

Many plaques have been erected around the city and surrounds and the Association assisted with the erection of a wonderful statue to the Cornish Miner in the heart of the city.

As a noted Cornish born Mayor of the city James Henry Curnow stated in 1921 to the then Prince of Wales (Duke of Cornwall) "It was the Cousin Jacks that made Bendigo" and this tradition has been followed.

In the wonderful language of Cornwall: Bendygo Bys Vyken   "Bendigo For Ever"

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