Q&A WITH AUTHOR RYAN BUTTA
To celebrate the Boundless Plains exhibition in Springvale, join us for a discussion with Sherene Hassan, Director of Community Engagement, Islamic Museum of Australia and Ryan Butta,
author of The Ballad of Abdul Wade, which tells the true story of Australia’s unsung pioneering heroes, the Afghan Cameleers.

Explore photographs captured during a contemporary expedition across Australia in 2011. The aptly named Boundless Plains expedition was initiated by Moustafa Fahour OAM, founder of the Islamic Museum of Australia. This journey saw Moustafa and three friends travel the country, chronicling Australia's rich Muslim history. From Marree, in far north South Australia and the site of Australia’s first mosque, built by Afghan Cameleers, to Arnhem Land, Broome and beyond, a collection of the resulting images are highlighted in this photographic exhibition, presented by the Islamic Museum, in collaboration with the Greater City of Dandenong.

Eltham District Historical Society's Christmas function is a trivia night - put together a table (or join an existing table) and come along in your wildest or, at least, your out-of-the-ordinary gear. Kaftans and 60s attire encouraged! You are welcome to bring your own drinks and some supper to share.   To book please contact
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Labassa’s grand architecture and exquisite decorative features have drawn generations of amateur and professional photographers. From ‘wow’ shot to intimate close up, Labassa has it all. Bring your camera and take a guided tour or explore the mansion on your own. Join the hunt for Labassa’s quirky ‘critters’ and capture them on camera. No tripods,
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St John Ambulance began its Search and Rescue Squads after WWII to collaborate with Victoria Police and the Country Fire Authority. It was superseded in the mid-1970s by the government funded State Emergency Service. However, in its heyday, S&R attended many disasters including the Southern Aurora derailment and the Westgate Bridge collapse. Stewart Grainger, who
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Experience Labassa’s lavish architecture and companion garden at twilight. Labassa’s garden has undergone many changes in its 160-year history. From pleasure grounds for Marvellous Melbourne’s elite through to a communal garden for resident hippies, Labassa has seen it all. Although over 700 people have lived at the mansion, its 1890s interiors remain largely intact. See
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A great-aunt’s bequest – a 200-year-old grandfather clock – sends historian Graeme Davison on a journey deep into his father’s family’s past. From their tribal homeland in the Scottish Borders, he follows them to the garrison town of Carlisle, from industrial Birmingham to Edwardian Australia, and from the Great War to his own suburban childhood.
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