The RHSV and the Genealogical Society of Victoria are delighted to co-present this full-day seminar which will give participants a deep understanding of the forces and influences which have shaped Melbourne’s early growth.

The seminar will be opened with a overview by Gary Presland on how Melbourne’s Geography shaped its development.

Then the following historians will explain the development of their locale

• Footscray by Carmel Taig
• Prahran by Steven Haby & Judith Buckrich
• Heidelberg by Graham Thorley
• “Up Sydney Road” – Brunswick & Coburg by Cheryl Griffin

This seminar is designed for those who are researching their family or community history and want to understand the why, who, when, what and how of Melbourne’s growth. Were the influencing factors economic? geographic? climatic? demographic? religious? commercial? opportunistic? geological? corrupt? dictated by government? What drew our ancestors to settle where they did?

It will also be of interest to those who merely want to deepen their understanding of Melbourne’s development without having a history project to hand.

Refreshments: Light lunch & refreshments provided throughout the day.