Medical matters at Koo Wee Rup

The Bush Nursing Centre

The Bush Nursing Centre at Koo Wee Rup was established in July 1918. The Bush Nursing Hospital Movement began in 1910 with the establishment of the Victorian Bush Nursing Association (V.B.N.A.). At the time the current medical system consisted of big hospitals such as the Royal Melbourne which were run along charitable lines and whose role was to treat poor people, who could not afford to pay a Doctors fee. There were also private hospitals which only the wealthy could afford. To help offset medical costs Friendly Societies or Lodges were established which people could join for a yearly fee. This gave them access to the Friendly Society doctor and access to medicine dispensed from the Friendly Society Dispensary. There was also a growing move to nurse people in their own homes through what is now the Royal District Nursing Service.  People in the city and the suburbs could have a nurse visit them to help recover from confinements and general illness. This type of service took pressure off the public Hospitals. Lady Dudley, the wife of the Governor General, was aware of these visiting nurses and had also seen firsthand the need for skilled nurses in the bush, so from these experiences came the idea of Bush Nursing Hospitals. Lady Dudley (1867-1920) promoted and raised money for the idea and thus the Victorian Bush Nursing Association began in 1910. (1)

To obtain a Bush Nursing Centre, the local community had to raise the money to fund the cost of the nurse’s salary, board, uniform and a ‘means of locomotion’. The salary was set by the Bush Nursing Association at the rate of around £80.00 per annum, the rate of pay for a hospital nurse with five or six years experience. The first Victorian nurse was appointed to Beech Forest in March 1911 (2). The first Bush Nurse at Koo Wee Rup was Nurse Homewood, who commenced work on July 1, 1918. 

Ellen Amelia ‘Nell’ Homewood was born October 2, 1891 in Rockhampton, in Queensland, to Alfred and Margaret (nee Burns) Homewood, of Lavendale, Kunwarara. She was the seventh of their thirteen children. Ellen undertook midwifery training at the Rockhampton Women’s Hospital; four of Ellen’s sisters were also nurses, and two of them, Martha and Grace, served in the Australian Army Nursing Service in World War One. In 1917, Ellen was the Bush Nurse at Cowangie Hospital and from there she came to Koo Wee Rup.(3). 

The Lang Lang Guardian reported on her arrival in the town - Almost as soon as she arrived Nurse Homewood's services were called into action at Kooweerup. Little Jim Ellis had the distinction of being the first patient. On Tuesday night the nurse was called to Dalmore, but got back in time for the welcome. (4).

The President of the Koo Wee Rup Bush Nursing Association in Koo Wee Rup was William Eason and the Secretary was George Burhop. At the function to welcome Nurse Homewood, Mr Eason said -
Bush nurses filled a great want in districts where the services of a medical man were unobtainable. They had a great many trials and difficulties to contend with, and it was their duty to alleviate suffering and save life. It was to their interest to join heartily in the movement and make it a great success. He welcomed Nurse Homewood to Kooweerup. The Lang Lang Guardian report continued Nurse Homewood, who is quite a young-looking girl, made an appropriate response, and hoped they would all work well together (5). 

After the speeches  A musical programme was rendered. Miss Jessie Johnson played a selection by Beethoven in fine style. Songs were rendered by Mrs C. Donald excellently. "An Old Love Dream" and 

"Sleep, Little Ruflly, Fluffly Bird," Mr Lupson was in great form, and rendered several songs, "Take a Pair of Spark ling Eyes." "Glorious Devon," and was warmly encored, giving "The Land of I Dunno Where," and "Shirts," a comic item which elicited much laughter. Mr Wallace sang "My Old Shako" and "On Dooley's Farm," both items being well rendered and loudly applauded. Refreshments were abundant and choice, presided over as usual by Mrs Morrison. A dance was held afterwards, the company separating at 1am. (6).

Nurse Homewood was at Koo Wee Rup until March 1919, when she took up a position at the newly opened bush nursing centre at Toolondo which is between Horsham and Goroke (7). At the May 1919 Koo Wee Rup Bush Nursing Association Annual meeting it was reported that in the past nine months the nurse’s attention was called on 753 occasions (8) so she would have been extremely busy.

On May 13, 1920, Ellen Homewood married Archibald McBride Broderick. Arch, as he was known, had served in the AIF, enlisting in April 1916 and returning home in July 1919. He was a Bank Manager with the Commercial Bank and in the first decade of their marriage his career took them all over Australia – the Electoral Rolls show they lived in Mildura, Maryborough in Queensland and Cairns in Queensland. From the 1930s they were back in Melbourne. Ellen died February 9, 1975 and her death notice lists one daughter, Margaret, and two grandchildren. Arch died in January 1974, aged 84. (9).

The next Bush Nurse was Nurse McKay, and I have no other information about her. Nurse McKay was followed by Mary Ellen Walsh, who took up the role April 21, 1920 (10). In February 1920, the Koo Wee Rup Sun reported that the Bush Nurse was forced to live three miles out of the town because while residents are desirous of having the services of a  nurse in connection with the Bush Nursing Centre, yet there are no homes willing to take one in. This enforces her to stay at a residence three miles out, but she drives in very day to attend her duties. The position is very unsatisfactory. (11).  

Since I wrote this, Barry Hester contacted me and told me that Mary Walsh was a very good friend of his grandmother, Margaret Hester (nee Knopp). When they were both living in Gisborne she delivered  four of Margaret's children. Mary then moved to Koo Wee Rup to take up the position of Bush Nurse and convinced Margaret to also move to the area, which she did, buying a farm on McDonalds Drain Road. One of the incentives for the move was that Nurse Walsh said there would be work for the five Hester sons. Margaret's husband was a miner and so was  frequently away. It is more than likely, as Barry said, that Nurse Walsh, after she arrived, that she lived out on McDonald's Drain with the Hesters. (12)

Mary Walsh, Bush Nurse at Koo Wee Rup

Photo: Koo Wee Rup Swamp Historical Society 

In July 1920, the Koo Wee Rup Sun reported that the Koo Wee Rup Bush Nursing Committee would like to employ an assistant for the Nurse, but they could afford to do so. They did however decide to pay the rent on the consulting room as it was unfair that their nurse should be saddled with this expense (13).

Nurse Walsh was the Matron at the Fallen Soldiers' Memorial Hospital after it opened on May 23, 1923 and due to a healthy financial situation in the October of that year it was decided to grant  her a board allowance. As it was explained at a Committee  meeting she has increased responsibilities, and the success of the centre was largely due to the able and faithful services Nurse Walsh had given. They also said it would not cost much, as the public largely donated edibles to the institution. (14). 

Nurse Walsh was granted six months leave in January 1924, due to ill health, and at her farewell function it was noted that she had been connected with the centre for about four years. The Koo Wee Rup Sun reported on her farewell function - By her fondness for duty; capable attention to those needing her aid, and lovable disposition she is held in the highest esteem by every individual in Kooweerup and district. Nurse Walsh was presented with a travelling rug, leather suit case and an envelope containing, it is hoped, enough lucre to bring her back again to Kooweerup. As a matter of interest, whilst she was in Koo Wee Rup, Mary Ellen Walsh brought to life no fewer than 66 babes. She was a mother not only to the children, but to mothers she had nursed, as well as men. (15). 

Sadly for the town, Nurse Walsh, did not return to Koo Wee Rup and in August 1924, she was still residing in Western Australia and making good progress. (16).  In the 1925 and 1926 Electoral Rolls there is a Mary Ellen Walsh, Nurse, listed at 225 Beaconsfield Parade, Middle Park. This address was Salerno, a boarding house. This may well be 'our' Nurse Walsh, but I can't trace her life otherwise. (17)

Update on Nurse Walsh

Koo Wee Rup Sun, August 7, 1924 p. 4

It was not surprising that Nurse Walsh  needed so much time off to recover when you consider just how busy these Bush Nurses were, how much responsibility they had and how little professional support they had, as they so often worked alone.

 The Nurses Cottage constructed in 1921

In 1920 it was decided to erect a hospital in Koo Wee Rup and in May of that year the following advertisement appeared in the Koo Wee Rup Sun.  In the July it was announced that plans would be drawn up for a Fallen Soldiers' Memorial Hospital. (18).

Donations sought for a Hospital

Koo Wee Rup Sun May 20 1920 p.1

The plans from the Architects were for a wooden building, with verandahs, which would accommodate four beds. The estimated cost of the building was £1970, or if it was built in brick £2160. The Koo Wee Rup Bush Nursing Committee considered this to be too expensive, they had only wanted to spend £700, so it was suggested that they should initially proceed with the nurse's quarters (19).

Mr Burhop said he had had a conversation with Mr Colvin [the local builder] re the erection of quarters for the nurse. He had suggested a working bee to have the place put up in 24 hours. Mr Colvin said he was prepared to take the lead and supervise the work. If this could be done they would only have to bear the expense of the timber. (20). 

The first working bee was scheduled for April 14 and 15, 1921 and everyone is expected to become busy bees (21). And not just the men were to help - Ladies will be present to encourage the menfolk by providing morning and afternoon lunch (22). The building wasn't completed in the two days, and another working bee was scheduled the next week. In the end J. Bould finished the building, the chimneys were bricked by the Whiteside Brothers and  a sub-committee of ladies furnished the Cottage (23). At the Annual meeting held June 15, 1921 the Committee could announce that the Cottage was completed; they would consider finding an assistant for their nurse [who] was nearly run off her feet and that two midwifery patients could be taken into the Cottage at a time. (24)

The working bee to construct the Nurse's Cottage

Koo Wee Rup Sun, April 7, 1921 p. 1

The Working Bee to construct the Nurse's Home in 1921.

Image: Koo Wee Rup Swamp Historical Society

The Working Bee to construct the Nurse's Home in 1921.

Image: Koo Wee Rup Swamp Historical Society

The Working Bee to construct the Nurse's Home in 1921.

Image: Koo Wee Rup Swamp Historical Society

Koo Wee Rup Bush Nursing Centre, Fallen Soldiers' Memorial Hospital opened in 1923

In May 23, 1923 the Bush Nursing Centre, Fallen Soldiers' Memorial Hospital was opened in Station Street. It was opened by the Shire President, Cr E.Simpson Hill. During the ceremony, Mrs Margaret Hamilton officially opened a ward in honor of the late Kitty Townson. I have written about these two women, here.  The Hospital could accommodate medical, surgical and midwifery patients. There is a full report of the opening, here.

At the ceremony a plaque was unveiled to honor the local soldiers who had not returned from the War. The names engraved on the memorial tablet are: - J. Banbury, D.G. Bethune, S. Blake, J. Bryant, T. Bryant, M. Callanan, L. Coates, P. Davis, J. Davy, C. Garbellini, H. Hamilton, J. Hannaker, R. Martin, C. Osborne, J. O’Shea, J. Randle, J. Slocombe, A. Williams, C. Woods. I have written about these men, here. 

Advertisement for the opening of the new Hospital
Koo Wee Rup Sun, May 3, 1923, p.1

The Fallen Soldiers' Memorial  Hospital

Image: Koo Wee Rup Swamp Historical Society

Random Medical Matters at Koo Wee Rup

In May 1923, the first Resident Doctor,  Dr Lyell Andrews, arrived. In February 1925, Dr Alan Hewitt and his wife, Vera, who was a trained nurse, took over Dr Andrew's practice. Dr Alan retired from practice in 1963; his son  Dr John worked in Koo Wee Rup from 1951 until 1955 and another son, Dr Ian, commenced practice in the town in 1955 and retired in 1995. On July 20, 1925, Chemist, Felix Tattam, opened his pharmacy in Rossiter Road. Felix sold his business in 1934 to Mr Brewis (25)

Felix Tattam's advertisements from the Koo Wee Rup Sun during 1926

On June 9, 1930 he married Sister Olive Tuffin, who was the Matron of the Hospital. Olive had arrived in Koo Wee Rup sometime in 1928, but was certainly there in the December as she helped treat the people injured in the Christmas Eve train accident, see below. Olive Tuffin was born in Tasmania and 'trained at the Hobart General Hospital. Her fellow trainee, Sister Morley, also worked at Koo Wee Rup (26). 

Sister Tuffin retires from duty due to her forthcoming wedding

The Argus, May 30, 1930 http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article4090543

Marriage notice of Olive Tuffin and Felix Tattam

Launceston Examiner, July 9, 1930 https://trove.nla.gov.au/newspaper/article/51646783/3302467

Dr Hewitt and Dr Sydney Appleford, the Lang Lang doctor,  gave medical attention to the victims of the railway accident at Koo Wee Rup. The accident occurred on December 24, 1928. Fifty two people were injured (27)

In October 1929, The Argus reported -

The serious railway accident which occured at Koo-wee-rup station on Christmas Eve last year and the growing needs of the town impressed upon the committee of the Koo-wee-rup Bush Nursing Hospital the necessity for increased accommodation and the result has been the addition of an enclosed verandah of the type common to the majority of bush nursing hospitals in Victoria. This verandah was opened on Saturday by Lady Barrett, in the presence of a large gathering of residents of Koo-wee-rup and surrounding districts. Of liberal dimensions the verandah has ample room for 10 bed, which means the accommodation of the hospital has been doubled. (28)

In the first week of September 1930 there were five babies born at the Hospital. Daughters to Mr and Mrs Tom Burton, Mr and Mrs Frank Egan, Mr and Mrs S. Games, and sons to Dr and Mrs Hewitt and Mr and Mrs Blythman (29). 

During the flood of December 1934, patients were evacuated through the roof. The Argus of December 3, 1934 had this report -

Koo-wee-rup Hospital was flooded to a depth of 7ft within a few minutes, and the patients, some of whom were seriously ill, were trapped before they could be moved. Mr Clarence Fenner, who had undergone an operation for appendicitis a few hours beforehand, was in bed, and unable to help himself. His father, who was on the railway platform, waded and swam through the swirling water to the hospital, and climbed on to the roof, where with the assistance of Mr Gannon, he cut a hole in the
galvanised iron and pulled his boy to safety up through the hole. Aided by others who came to the rescue, the 10 remaining patients in the wards were taken out in the same manner.

Heroism and Fortitude
Mrs Mary Ann Bolleman, aged 59 years, another patient, held a baby in her arms above the water for 15 hours with the water surging above her neck before they were rescued. Mrs A. Adams and her baby which was born only the night before were being pulled out when the child was dropped into the water. She grasped the child's clothing frantically and saved it from drifting away. Both were raised through the opening to safety. (30).

The baby was James (also known as Toby) the son of Albert and Annie (nee Davies) of Manks Road in Dalmore (31).

In October 1935, the new operating theatre was opened. Lady Mitchell, the President of the Victorian Bush Nursing Association, congratulated the Koo Wee Rup committee on the addition to the Hospital (32). 

In 1938, for the first time, rates of pay and conditions of work were set for nurses in Victoria. Nurses were to work a fifty hour week (33). 

In August 1939 the annual meeting of the Hospital re-elected the out-going committee. President – J.L. O’Riordan ; Treasurer – W. Dick; Secretary - G.R Burhop; Committee Mesdames J.L O’Riordan and G.R Burhop and Messers Gilchrist and Powrie (34). 

Towards the end of 1945 a Committee was established to build a new Hospital in Koo Wee Rup, to be called the Westernport Memorial Hospital. (35).

In 1946 an Infant Welfare Centre was established in the R.S.L room at the Memorial Hall. It moved to a new building in Alexander Avenue, where it opened July 26, 1949. In 1953 a Pre-school was established in the Infant Welfare Centre grounds. In September 1960 they both moved to a new building in Rossiter Road (36). 

On December 4, 1955 the Westernport Memorial Hospital was opened. On July 28, 1955 a public meeting had been held to establish a Ladies Auxiliary (37).

Notice of meeting to establish the Hospital Ladies Auxiliary 

Koo Wee Rup Sun, July 20, 1955, p.4

Footnotes

(1) Priestley, Susan Bush Nursing in Victoria: 1910-1985, the first 75 years (Victorian Bush Nursing Association/Lothian 1986). Lady Dudley (1867-1920, nee Rachel Gurney) - Obituary in The Argus, June 29, 1920, see here; Australian Dictionary of Biography, entry here.

(2) Priestley, op. cit. 

(3) Sources on Ancesty.com and Indexes to the Queensland Births, Deaths and Marriages. Her mother, Margaret Homewood, died aged 57 in 1919, read her obituary in the Rockhampton Morning Bulletin of June 21, 1919, here.   Her father, Alfred William Homewood, died aged 90 in 1944, read his obituary in the Rockhampton Morning Bulletin of September 23, 1944, here. 

(4) Lang Lang Guardian July 5, 1918, p. 2.

(5) Lang Lang Guardian July 5, 1918, p. 3

(6) Ibid

(7) The Argus, March 3, 1919, see here.

(8) Koo Wee Rup Sun, May 7 1919, p. 1

(9) Marriage Certificate; Electoral Rolls on Ancestry; Arch Broderick (SN 3763) Attestation file at the National Archives of Australia, see here; 

Death notice Arch Broderick

The Age January 15, 1974 newspspers.com

Death notice Ellen Amelia Broderick

The Age February 10, 1975 newspapers.com

(10) I can't find the exact dates of the appointment of Sister McKay. Sister Walsh's date comes from the Koo Wee Rup Sun of May 24, 1923, p 4., transcribed here  https://kooweerupswamphistory.blogspot.com/2023/03/official-opening-of-fallen-soldiers.html 

(11) Koo Wee Rup  Sun, February 12, 1920, p. 1

(12) You can read an interesting obituary of Margaret Hester, in The Advocate, June 18, 1937, here. Margaret's great-grand daughter, Louise Blake, has written about her life in Woods Point and the scrapbook Margaret compiled from when she was 14 years old - read it here - https://prov.vic.gov.au/explore-collection/provenance-journal/provenance-2009/woods-point-my-dwelling-place  (Thank you to Barry Hester for the link to the story)

(13) Koo Wee Rup Sun, July 1, 1920, p. 4.

(14) Koo Wee Rup Sun, October 25, 1923, p. 2

(15) Koo Wee Rup Sun, January 31, 1924, p. 3

(16) Koo Wee Rup Sun, August 7, 1924, p. 4

(17) Electoral Rolls, an Ancestry.com.  Salerno, 225 Beaconsfield Parade

The Argus, April 8, 1916 https://trove.nla.gov.au/newspaper/article/2110221

(18) Koo Wee Rup Sun, July 22 1920, p. 1

(19) Koo Wee Rup Sun, November 11, 1920, p. 5

(20) Ibid

(21) Koo Wee Rup Sun, April 7, 1921 p.1

(22) Koo Wee Rup Sun, April 14, 1921 p. 5

(23) Mickle, David J. Mickle Memories of Koo Wee Rup (The Author, 1983) p. 77; Koo Wee Rup Sun June 16, 1921, p. 4.

(24) Koo Wee Rup Sun, June 23, 1921, p. 4.

(25) Mickle, David J. Mickle Memories of Koo Wee Rup (The Author, 1983) and More Mickle Memories of Koo Wee Rup (The Author, 1987); notes compiled by Jack Mills at the Koo Wee Rup Swamp Historical Society; Felix Tattam had an advertisement in the Koo Wee Rup Sun in July 1925, advertising to be opened July 20, 1925.

(26) The Koo Wee Rup Sun published a letter from Sister Tuffin on January 10, 1929, thanking the many kind helpers who assisted with the treatment of the injured in the train accident. David Mickle, in volume 2 of his Memories listed Matron Tuffin and Nurse Morley as being in charge of the Hospital in July 1929.

Nurse Tuffin and Nurse Morley pass their nursing examinations in Hobart and were both later to serve at Koo Wee Rup.

Hobart News November 29, 1924 http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article233536721

(27) Links and photographs here 

https://kooweerupswamphistory.blogspot.com/2020/02/railway-accident-at-koo-wee-rup.html

(28) The Argus, October 28, 1929, see here.

(29) Mickle,  David J More Mickle Memories of Koo Wee Rup op. cit p. 40

(30) The Argus, December 3, 1934, see here.

(31) More information about the people involved   https://kooweerupswamphistory.blogspot.com/2023/04/koo-wee-rup-fallen-soldiers-memorial.html

(32) The Argus, October 28, 1935, see here.

(33) The Argus, November 11, 1938, see here.

(34)  Mickle,  David J More Mickle Memories of Koo Wee Rup op. cit p. 162.

(35) Dandenong Journal, December 12, 1945, see here; Dandenong Journal,  January 30, 1946, see here.

(36) Mickle, David J. Koo Wee Rup: a brief history of 130 years, 1839-1969 (published for the 1969 Back-to celebrations); Koo Wee Rup Sun, August 8, 1949.

(37) Westernport Memorial Hospital opening report, see here;  Koo Wee Rup Sun July 20, 1955, p. 4; Koo Wee Rup Sun, September 14, 1960, p. 1 and 3. 

This post was first written in 2014 and updated and expanded in 2023.

100 years ago this week - it's raining!

There has been some heavy rain this week - just like it was 100 years ago!

Bunyip Free Press July 16, 1914

http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article129629245

100 years ago this week - Roller Skating

Roller Skating was a popular winter past-time 100 years ago - these advertisements for skating at the Bunyip Mechanics' Institute and the Nar Nar Goon Public Hall appeared in the Bunyip Free Press of July 2, 1914.

Skating at Bunyip and Nar Nar Goon

Bunyip Free Press July 2, 1914  http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article129629166

A Skating Carnival was held at Keast Hall (the public hall) on July 17, 1914. The Bunyip Free Press reported that In spite of the unpromising night and the state of the canal, which was running a banker, the local people turned out well and a vey enjoyable evening was spent. 

Report of Skating Carnival at Cora Lynn.

Bunyip Free Press July 23, 1914  http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article129629268

Skating Carnival.
The skating carnival at Cora Lynn took place in Keast Hall on Friday evening last. Owing to the extremely wet weather and the small attendance from outside parts it was decided to only run the local events, and to hold another carnival in four weeks time, leaving all events open. In spite of the unpromising night and the state of the canal, which was running a banker, the local people turned out well, and a very enjoyable evening was
spent. The events decided were as follows:— 

Most Graceful Couple, Local: Miss K. O'Brien and Mr. M. Kinsella.
Most Graceful Lady Skater, Local: Miss Evelyn Jeffers. 

Most Graceful Gent Skater, Local: Mr. Kent Muller.
Best representation of a Popular Song : Miss Ruby Wilson ("Rule Britannia.") 

Obstacle Race : Thornton Roper 1; Harry Rigby 2. 

Tilting at the Ring: W. Rigby 1; M. Kinsella 2. 

Bun Eating Competition : Harry Rigby 1.

Garfield Mechanics' Institute and Public Hall

The Garfield Mechanics' Institute was opened in March 1889 (1). A mechanics' institute generally housed a public hall and a library with books aimed to improve the education and knowledge of ‘mechanics’ a term used to describe the working man or tradesman.

In the 1890s Mechanics' Institutes had to send in a return to the Government and these returns were published in the annual  Statistical Register for the Colony of Victoria compiled from official records in the office of the Government Statist (2).  Garfield appears in the 1890, 1891 and 1892 editions of the Statistical Registers. They tell us that the cost of the building was  £224 and that it initially had a Library of 100 volumes; in 1891 the number of books had increased to 150, it was open from 7.00pm to 9.00pm on Wednesdays and Saturdays and had 500 visits through the year. In 1892 the Library had decreased to 120, the opening hours were the same and the number of visits was not listed.

The new Garfield Mechanics' Institute was used for a variety of other functions. For instance, in October 1889, it was reported that-

A conversazione was held in the Mechanics' Institute on the 4th inst. The attendance was very large considering the state of the weather. The following ladies and gentlemen took part in the programme provided: Miss Garrett played "Les Cloches du Monasterie" with great taste and execution. Mesdames Skinner, Spence, and Canning, with the Misses Skinner, Canning, and Jefferson, contributed some vocal and instrumental selections. Miss Watson and Master Farrow recited. Mr. Spence did not appear to remember the words of the pretty little ballad he sang, which met with faint applause. Messrs. Carter, Jefferson, and Garrett were encored for the rendition of their comic songs. Mr. Pollock's song, "Happy Moments" and Mr. Murphy's "The Good Rhine Wine" elicited warm approval from the audience. Mr. Edwards, suffering from a severe cold, attempted to sing "Nil Desperandum" but his voice was almost inaudible. Mr. Skinner sang "Doctor Quack" with his usual ability. The three consecutive comic songs of Mr. Hargreaves, completely took the audience by storm, thus proving that the comical element is better appreciated in Garfield than the sentimental. The services of those old favorites, Mr. and Mrs. Skinner, are quite indispensable to Garfield (3). 

The Mechanics' Institute very nearly had a short life as in August 1890 the Warragul Guardian noted  that - 

On Sunday evening last an attempt was made to burn down the Mechanics' Institute, at Garfield. Mr. Ritchie who lives in the neighbourhood noticing a bright reflexion through the window of the hall, and knowing no one should be in there at the time went across to the building. He found the door open and the building on fire, but fortunately was able to extinguish the flames before they had attained any material headway. Immediately after he had successfully achieved this object, he informed Constable Canty of the occurrence, who with a party of trackers started to discover the incendiary. So far we have no information as to the search for the incendiary having been successful (4). 

I have no information as to where this first hall was located or what happened to it, but by 1902 there was a movement in the town for a new Hall and a committee was formed to start collecting money and fund raising activities such as balls at Tynong and Iona were held over that year and the next. This is the report of the ball at Tynong in July 1903-

The ball held at Tynong on Friday last was in aid of the Garfield Hall, and turned out to be very successful. It was carried out in a creditable manner, as is usual when this district arranges anything for the benefit of Garfield. The catering was splendid, and reflects great credit on Mr. Bird (Garfield) for the splendid, small goods he supplied, there being full and plenty for all. The committee, which consisted of Messrs. Hogan, Rutledge, R. Hardwick, A Thorne, G Middenway, C Register, J. Gillespie, F. Edis (Sec.); Misses Rutledge, and Middenway, deserve great praise for the way they worked to bring things to a successful issue. The musicians Messrs. F. Elis (violinist) J. Rutledge (melodian) supplied music of a splendid description, and were heartily thanked for their services gratuitously given. Mr. G. Ellis acted as M.C. and carried out his duties in a worthy manner (5).

At a public meeting held on July 4, 1904 it was decided to purchase some land, on the north side of the railway line and opposite the Railway Station, to build the new public hall.  The land, next to the School, was purchased from Mr J.M Gillespie for £10.00 and an energetic working committee was appointed to further the movement, which is undoubtedly another step towards the improvement of the township (6).   The Secretary of the Committee was John Daly, the school teacher. The rest of the committee were J.J. Lyons, C. Pitt, G. Park, W.J. Walker and G.W. Ellis (7). 

Proposed new public hall at Garfield

Bunyip and Garfield Express July 7, 1904, p. 3.

The official opening of the Hall was on Saturday, November 26 1904 with a concert of  a high class nature (8).  A report of the official opening in the Bunyip and Garfield Express said that the hall was a very commodious building, capable of accommodating between 250 and 300 people. It is constructed of pine walls with hardwood beams and is very tastefully designed. The staging and dressing rooms being up to date, altogether no fault could be found with the structure. ..... The main hall is 45 by 25 feet width, walls 14 feet, with stage fitted up in latest style and built into the foundation. In addition there were two dressing rooms which could be opened to one large room, 25 feet by 10 feet and used for Lodge meetings etc. The hall was designed by J.H. Walker and built by Ingebert Gunnelson (9). 

Garfield Public Hall, which opened in 1904

Berwick Pakenham Historical Society photograph (image has been cropped)

There had been an earlier function in the hall when the Garfield Branch of the Australian Natives Association (A.N.A) had held a banquet there on November 18 (10).   The A.N.A was a Friendly Society, with the aim of offering financial assistance to its members so thus provided sick pay and funeral benefits. It also aimed to promote the moral, social and intellectual improvement of its members. 

The opening ball was held on Wednesday, December 7, which was an unqualified success according to the Bunyip & Garfield Express (11).   Other early functions included the Garfield Cricket Club’s concert and ball held on December 30, where dancing was kept up till the early hours of the morn (12).  In the August of 1905 a progressive euchre party and dance was held by the Garfield Progressive Association and in the same month the A.N.A organized a public lecture where Senator Findlay spoke about his recent trip to Japan and China (13). 

Report of the opening ball at the new Garfield Hall

Bunyip and Garfield Express December 15, 1904, p. 3

A new Garfield Public Library was opened on February 12, 1906. The subscription was 2 shillings and six pence a quarter or 10 shillings per annum (14).  A  report in the South Bourke & Mornington Journal  said the Committee had secured a splendid stock of books (15).  It is likely that this Library was located in the Hall, perhaps in one of the dressing rooms. 

The opening of the Library
Bunyip and Garfield Express February 15, 1906, p. 2.

The usual range of events were held in the Garfield Hall - dances, dinners, use as a polling booth, concerts, wedding receptions etc. Then on Thursday, April 15 in 1937 the Hall was destroyed by fire. It had apparently started at 1.30am in the supper room and everything was destroyed except for some military equipment in a semi detached room at the back, according to a report in The Argus. The Hall was insured for £400.00 and its contents for £100.00 (16).  It was rebuilt and was re-opened possibly as early as September 22 the same year. Once again the hall hosted a range of social events - in the early 1950s my Dad, Frank Rouse, remembers that square dancing was very popular and that the Hall was packed for those dances - the caller was Bill Colvin of Koo Wee Rup. 

Garfield Public Hall, which opened in 1937

Berwick Pakenham Historical Society photograph.

Over 1953 -1954 improvements were made to the Hall and the kitchen, supper room and ladies toilets were updated. In March of 1954 a Civic Ball was held in the Hall to celebrate the visit of the Queen and Prince Phillip to Australia, they had visited Warragul the day before. Naturally the Queen and Prince Phillip were not in attendance but the local M.L.A, Les Cochrane, and the Berwick Shire President and most of the Councillors were present. The Hall had been decorated with flags and bunting and special lighting effects. The ballerina of the ball was Miss Elvie Cameron (17). 

The Hall was destroyed by fire, once again, on February 2, 1984 (18). 

Trove list - I have created a lost of articles on the Garfield Mechanics' Institute and Public Hall, access it here.

Footnotes

(1) The Age, March 9, 1889, see here.

(2) Statistical Registers - available here on the Victorian Government Library Service website.

(3) Great Southern Advocate, October 18, 1889, see here.

(4) Warragul Guardian, August 22, 1890, see here.

(5) South Bourke & Mornington Journal, July 22, 1903, see here. 

(6) South Bourke & Mornington Journal, July 20, 1904, see here.

(7) Bunyip and Garfield Express July 7, 1904, p. 3.

(8) Bunyip and Garfield Express, December 1, 1904, p. 3

(9) Ibid

(10) Bunyip and Garfield Express, November 24, 1904, p. 3

(11) Bunyip and Garfield Express, December 15, 1904, p. 3

(12) Bunyip and Garfield Express, January 5, 1905, p. 3

(13) South Bourke & Mornington Journal,  July 26, 1905, see here and August 9, 1905, see here. 

(14) Bunyip and Garfield Express February 15, 1906, p. 2.

(15) South Bourke & Mornington Journal, February 21, 1906, see here.

(16) The Argus, April 16, 1937, see here and The Age, April 16, 193, see here.

(17) I clearly got this information from somewhere when I first wrote this blog post in 2014, but now in 2022 when I am updating it, I can't find the source.

(18) https://berwick.starcommunity.com.au/gazette/2009-05-27/22-years-ago-a-new-hall-at-garfield/

Koo Wee Rup Memorial Hall

The Memorial Hall used to stand between the Presbyterian Church and the Historical Society in Rossiter Road. The first hall had been opened on this site in April 1903. The Lang Lang Guardian of Saturday, April 11, 1903 reported on the opening -

Koo-Wee-Rup Hall. Official Opening. A Great Assemblage

Members of the committee of this movement felt radiant last Wednesday evening and the importance of the event, coupled with the visit  of Mr. A.C. Groom, M.H.R., a packed and appreciative audience  and a lovely moonlight night justified them in placing all these things as a good augary for future prospetity. The building, with fittings, was erected at a tota cost of £290, and at the present time there is a debit balance of £150 on it.

In opening, Mr Mickle (president) briefly introduced Mr Groom. Speeches were cut short, and in a few well-chosen words Mr Groom officially declared the Hall open. Mr Mickle then read the financial statement as above.

Mr Laidlaw, as a member of the committee, congratulated and offered the warmest felicitations to Mr Groom, and eulogised him in being privileged to assist in guiding the destinies of the Commonwealth. The speaker congratulated their Federal member on a white Australia and the Federal tariff, and hoped he would establish arbitration and conciliation to the worker. Mr Laidlaw then congratulated residents on the erection of such a Hall. It was in an incomplete state, but he trusted finances would come in as well as they had done in the past. The committee intended to establish a library and gymnasium, and if the public only gave their support they would succeed in making it one of the best halls in South Gippsland.

After a hearty vote of thanks had been passed to performers and Mr Groom, the latter expressed his pleasure at being present. He hoped that in future, election meetings would be held in the Hall and that there would be as many present. If all audiences were so large and appreciative, the committee would have no trouble regarding finances.

Concert proceedings closed with the National Anthem, after which an adjournment was made to a large marquee adjoining, where the ladies were ubiquitous in handing around good things. The Hall was meantime cleared for dancing, and the light fantastic  was tripped until the “wee’ sma’ hours ayont the twa.”

Mr J.A. Mickle as president, the members of the committee, and Mr A. Woodman, hon.sec., deserve every praise for the consummation of their praiseworthy efforts.

 In 1912, the Hall became a Mechanics’ Institute, in order for it to access government grants. In the nineteenth century the term ‘mechanic’ meant artisan or working man. The Mechanics’ Institute movement began in 1800 when Dr George Birkbeck of the Andersonian Institute in Scotland gave a series of lectures to local mechanics. The lectures were free and popular. They led to the formation of the Edinburgh School of Arts (1821) and the London Mechanics’ Institute (1823). The movement spread quickly throughout the British Empire. The first Victorian Mechanics’ Institute was the Melbourne Mechanics’ Institute established in 1839 and renamed The Melbourne Athenaeum in 1873, which continues to operate in its original building on Collins Street. Over a thousand were built in Victoria and 562 remain today.

Mechanics’ Institutes were generally connected to a Public Hall. Bayles was another local town which had a Mechanics’ Institute. This was located in the Bayles Hall which had been re-located from Yallock and officially opened in January 1932. The Tooradin Mechanics Institute was built in 1882, burnt down in 1937 and the existing Hall was opened in 1938. The old Cora Lynn hall was also originally a Mechanics Institute.  Mechanic’s Institutes generally had a library, and may have offered lectures, discussions or classes.

The Koo Wee Rup hall was of weather board and it was extended in 1919.  The brick front and other rooms were added in 1925 and it was renamed the Memorial Hall to honour the First World War soldiers.

 Hall before the 1923 extension.  

The Returned Sailors and Soldiers Imperial League of Australia paid £300 to help fund these additions and had a lease on the Hall at the rental of one peppercorn per annum.  The Hall was used for various entertainments - Colvin’s Pictures began weekly screenings on September 11th, 1922, this was five years before the Wattle Theatre was opened. The first Koo-Wee-Rup Scout troop gave a display in the Hall in August 1929. Public meetings, wedding receptions, debutant balls, twenty first birthdays, kitchen teas were all held in the Hall.

The original Hall and the brick extension are clearly seen in the photograph, which was taken during the 1934 flood 

During the Back to Koo-Wee-Rup celebrations of late October, early November 1969 the Hall was used for activities. Students of Koo-Wee-Rup High School would well remember having their H.S.C exams in the Hall in the 1970s.  In one of my exams there were about five of us in the Hall, and we were at least equalled in number by the sparrows flying around the ceiling. The Hall was demolished in 2002 and plaque on the fence marks its location.

These two views of the Hall are photographs from the Mechanics’ Institutes Resource Centre at the Prahran Mechanics' Institute http://home.vicnet.net.au/~mivic/projects.htm

Koo-Wee-Rup Fire Brigade - the early years

The Koo-Wee-Rup Sun of December 2, 1943 reported on a Public Meeting held at the Memorial Hall on November 26 to establish a local Fire Brigade. Brigades could only be established at the request of the local Council and as such it was Cr Leslie Cochrane who chaired the meeting. Mr A. McPherson, the Chief Officer of the Country Fire Brigades’ Board was also present. He had visited the town previously and considered it a suitable location for a Brigade and the Cranbourne Shire Council had agreed and made the necessary arrangements for the establishment of one.  As both the Council and the Country Fire Brigades’ Board agreed then all that remained was to get the personnel. McPherson suggested that Koo-Wee-Rup establish an A class Brigade which consisted of four Officers and eleven firemen. Under normal circumstance the Board would spend over £1,000 in setting up a Brigade, however due to the War many appliances were unavailable.

McPherson also talked of the social activities enjoyed by members of brigades at the annual demonstrations and that these demonstrations would be resumed after the return of 1,850 men at present in the fighting services. Koo-Wee-Rup established a competition team in 1950. Given that fighting fires can be dangerous, McPherson also said that the Board could grant up to £500 to the dependents of a fireman killed on duty. The Board would also give an annual allowance of £20 to the Brigade and the Council would also give an annual sum.

Volunteers were then called for and thirteen men answered the call and elected their own leaders. The first Captain was the alliteratively named Loyal Leslie Lackman; the Lieutenant was Cyril Isbister; the Foreman was William Mahoney; Secretary Samuel Lewis and other members were Kenneth Cochrane, John Sauer, Edward Holley, Thomas Perkins, William Winters, Albert Rushton, Thomas English and reserves were D. Johnson and L. Plowright. Johnson and Plowright were both under 18 years of age, which is why they were placed on the reserve list, according to the Koo-Wee-Rup Sun report. Lackman’s time as Captain was short lived as a report in the Koo-Wee-Rup Sun of May 4, 1944 said that Captain Lackman was farewelled by the members of the Brigade on April 28 as he had been transferred from the district by his employee, the State Rivers & Water Supply Commission. The report went on to say that in the short time he had been in Koo-Wee-Rup he had exhibited keen sportsmanship and had became a citizen the district could ill afford to lose. Soon after he left Koo-Wee-Rup, Loyal Lackman passed away suddenly on June 2, 1944 at Cobram at the age of 52.

At the meeting held on May 8, 1944 Cyril Isbister was elected as Captain and Clarence Raymond ‘Dick’ Florance elected Lieutenant. In July 1947, Dick Florance started his long reign as Captain, holding the position until October 1972, when John Duff took on the role. Captain Duff held the position until he passed away suddenly on September 13, 1979. Lieutenant Keith Ridgway was then elected as the new Captain. Captain Ridgway served in the role until his retirement in December 1993 and Lieutenant Lindsay Black was elected. Captain Black finished his tenure in May 2002 when Michael Duff was elected.

A temporary fire station was to be established until the permanent building could be erected which opened in Rossiter Road in September 1947. The present Station Street building (which was expanded in 1984) was officially opened October 2, 1959.

This photo partially shows the Rossiter Road fire station as well as the bell tower.

The Ladies Auxiliary was formed on November 14, 1956 with Mrs Claire Howarth elected as President.  The other Office bearers were Mrs Connie Grundy, Mrs Tobe Florance and Miss Janice Duff. The Auxiliary still supports the Brigade with fund raising and other activities.

Sources: Notes supplied by Mrs May Ridgway; Koo Wee Rup Fire Brigade Ladies Auxiliary: a brief history; Koo-Wee-Rup Sun.

Les O’Riordan’s recollections - early township buildings

In 1968, Dave Mickle interviewed seventy-six year old Les O’Riordan. John Leslie O’Riordan was born on August 26, 1892 and is said to be the first white child born in the Koo-Wee-Rup Village settlement. His father, John O’Riordan, opened a store in the town in 1890 - it was a tin shed at the rear of what is now Light’s garage.

Les married Margaret Colvin in August 1918 and they lived at Mallow,  which is now the head quarters of the Historical Society.  The house was built by her father, John Colvin. Margaret’s brother, A.C Colvin (Andrew) opened a cycle shop in the town in 1911 and later became an Agent for Ford Cars. Les died in October 1978 and Margaret in October 1955; they had three children.

Some of the interview with Les is published in Dave’s book Mickle Memories, but we also have the notes from the interview at the Koo-Wee-Rup Swamp  Historical Society, so what follows is a combination of both.

This is the map that Dave Mickle drew up  whilst talking to Les O'Riordan.

Rossiter Road
From the corner store going northwards (or down towards Bayles) On the left there was Thomson’s butchers shop, Ross the saddler, Bergin the bootmaker and Turner’s sweets shop, which was  just before Jack Gray’s house. Next was Keighery’s bootmakers and saddlery.  Still going north there was a timber building housing the London Bank (later moved to its current location – the ANZ bank). When the bank moved, Ben Darlington operated his radio shop from the site (where the car yard was).  Just over Gardiner Street was Mrs Greys’ shop,  then the Presbyterian Church and the Memorial Hall.

Station Street
Back to the Rossiter Road/Station street corner - the corner store was built for Bullocks, then owned by Finnigan, Battersby, Malouf, W.A Stephenson, Ernest Cougal and Ernest Williams. Along Station Street was the new London Bank, then a small paddock and Joe Morrison’s black smiths shop.  Next to Joe Morrison was Colvin’s cycle works and his Swastika café which he leased to the Misses Gallagher in 1922.  The swastika was originally a symbol representing well being and was used by many cultures until the rise of the Nazi Party in the 1930s. In the 1920s in Koo-Wee-Rup it was just a symbol of good luck, nothing sinister.

Station Street in Koo-Wee-Pup - the small building on the left is the Post Office. Next to it is the Swastika cafe.

Molly O’Riordan’s post office was next - it was described by Les as a small square building under a large pine tree, clearly seen in the picture, above.  This little post office was removed and Colvin’s built a garage (Albons).  At the rear of this site, the O’Riordans had built a coffee palace some years previously. It burnt down on the late 1920s/ early 1930s.  O’Riordan’s residence and store were next, on the corner of Moody Street.  A room at the back of the store was used as the first hall.  Behind the hotel was Wilkins (later Johnson) bakery and Johnson Brothers (later De Vries) butchery.