At the September meeting of the Port Melbourne Historical and Preservation Society Bruce Gooley will speak on the topic of  Men and Ships Driven by the Wind. Bruce is a graduate of Melbourne University and a researcher, presenter and self-published author with a special interest in maritime history. He is a volunteer tutor at the Hawthorn University of the Third Age (U3A). He has presented over 120 one and a half hour illustrated maritime history talks there, and has also presented to Probus and historical societies, and has documented these talks in book format. 

Graham Thorley of the Heidelberg Historical Society will join us to reflect on the changing face of the Banyule municipality via its population, buildings, infrastructure, and ways of life. Banyule's rolling hills and valleys, vegetation and grasslands abound with colourful native birds and wildlife attracting pastoralists, investors and settlers. Properties were established on a grand
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Stories connect us to our local heritage. Nestled on high ground, once overlooking the village of Eltham, we will tour part of the cemetery and recognise the contributions of some local women to the Eltham district community and share stories of women now interred in these grounds. From pioneer women to the first woman in
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Built in 1860, the Eltham Courthouse is the oldest public building remaining in the Shire of Nillumbik. In 2021, a restoration project was undertaken to bring new life to this architectural significant building. It was completed in early 2022. Jim Connor of the Eltham District Historical Society will join us to discuss the original function
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A show celebrating the diversity of U3A Melbourne City’s members: from first nation, through first fleet, convicts and early settlers to twentieth century refugees. A collection of illustrated personal stories with universal themes of love and war, oppression and adventure, with surprises and misunderstandings along the way, all helping us to learn more about each
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Are you a local history enthusiast? Did you know that there are many local history groups in the Bnayule, Nillumbik and Whittlesea municipalities that you are welcome to join? These groups gather regularly for guest speakers and excursions. They publish informative newsletters, manage collections and online content, and support wider products such as the production
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Clan Winter-Irving Gathering   Note! Due to current outbreak of COVID + border closures, event has been rescheduled for 2022 This inaugural 1 day event (15/10/2022) will provide an opportunity for descendants of the Winter’s, Winter-Irving’s and the Irving’s of Bonshaw (Scotland) to gather and share their ancestry. Participants are encouraged to bring along family
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