Trust News August 2012 by National Trust of Western Australia

Vo lu m e 5 N O 1 0 au g u s t 2 0 1 2

trust

news

INSIDE >

Australia

heritage festival highlights

NATIONAL TRUST

16 community heritage grants

26 tent embassy anniversary

A stellar attraction

CHPRI AR VA TE TE RS

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Inside 4

Our heritage a tangible and intangible link to our past

Amazing Stories: Innovation and Invention Heritage Festival Highlights 2012

Garden Island beginnings

Your Community Heritage Grants

Clarendon, the perfect setting for the new Australian Fly Fishing Museum

40 Years of the Aboriginal Tent Embassy

Thereâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s new funding from the Australian

Peeling Away the Layers

Government for innovative National Trust

Out of the Ashes

Saumarez Homestead wins coveted Tourism Award

A far reaching legacy

South West Trail Blazers

bequest from a Western Australian family

Eastern Barred Bandicoot

makes a difference to an historic riverside property. And the transit of Venus reminds us that once in a lifetime experiences can truly reach into the past and into the future.

A stellar transit

An Australian Memorial at Mont St Quentin â&#x20AC;&#x201C; not all it appears to be

ISSN: 1835-2316

my W o r d

Vol 5 No 10 2012 Trust News is published quarterly for National Trust members and subscribers in February, May, August and November.

with editor Gina Pickerin g

Publication is coordinated by the National Trust of Australia (WA) on behalf of the National Trusts of Australia and supported by the Department of Sustainability, Environment, Water, Population and Communities. National Trust of Australia (WA) ABN 83 697 381 616 PO Box 1162 West Perth WA 6872 T: 08 9321 6088 F: 08 9324 1571 W:www.ntwa.com.au Editor: Gina Pickering gina.pickering@ntwa.com.au T: 08 9321 6088

august - october 2012 Comings, goings and new beginnings. Greetings,

conservation and interpretation programs. Advertising: For advertising rates, contact the Editor. Design: Dessein Graphics Cover: The large lens telscope at Sydney Observatory. C Brothers, Powerhouse Museum, Sydney. Next Issue: November 2012 Copy deadline:10 August 2012

Please help us to save our environment and circulate this magazine as widely as possible. This magazine is printed on recyclable paper and packed in 100% degradable wrap. The views expressed in Trust News are not necessarily those of the National Trusts or the Department of Sustainability, Environment, Water, Population and Communities. The articles in this magazine are subject to copyright. No article may be used without the consent of the National Trust and the author.

National Trust festivals have captured the imagination of thousands of people across Australia. The Aboriginal Tent Embassy in Canberra marks a 40 year milestone, while a generous

Enjoy

Gina Pickering | Editor

Trust News Australia august 2012

perspectives

Our heritage a tangible and intangible link to our past Senator Penny Wright | Australian Greens’ spokesperson for Heritage

Australia’s rich, unique character is mirrored in its heritage; a layered mix of Indigenous stories, art and languages, the legacy of post-Cook settlement, the magnificent cultural melting pot of modern Australia and, of course, our stunning natural sites.

ur heritage has certainly shaped my own knowledge and understanding of our nation and those who helped build it. I will never forget my first breathtaking experience of Kakadu National Park, with its amazing birdlife, landscapes and the exquisite art of Ubirr, which brought me face to face with the ancient culture of our country and its custodians, connecting me to those who stood in that same place thousands of years before me. Of course, governments also profess to value heritage but without action to back them up, such words are of little value. Since becoming the Australian Greens’ spokesperson for Heritage last year, I have become increasingly concerned at the distinct lack of federal leadership when it comes to safeguarding our heritage. I have consistently spoken out about the need for an ambitious and timely Australian Heritage Strategy, the inability of the Heritage Division to do its job in the face of consecutive funding and staffing cuts, and the lack of recurrent and substantial grant funding for community heritage organisations and heritage conservation works. Whilst the “Your Community” Heritage grants celebrated in this

Above Ubirr

edition are an incredibly welcome investment, they are but a drop in the ocean against a backdrop of huge cuts to the Heritage Division. During recent Senate Estimates, the Department indicated not only that further cuts are likely, but that in order to cope with job losses, fewer heritage assessments are being completed and the Department has stopped giving comprehensive advice to custodians of important heritage sites. This devaluation of the heritage sector at a federal level is directly at odds with the community’s support of heritage issues. The Federation of Historical Societies alone estimates that the value of the volunteer labour undertaken by its members each year is $54 million. Australia’s heritage places are our link to the vibrant tangible and intangible history of our country and Australians do not want to see these places lost. But more than that, I strongly believe that protecting our heritage offers unique opportunities for job creation, skills training, community revitalisation, education and tourism, particularly in regional economies. Conservation works

rock art site in Kakadu National Park, 1992. P Wright.

Trust News Australia august 2012

not only create jobs for a myriad of trades, they also promote environmental sustainability through the adaptation and reuse of existing buildings. This is why I am committed to working with the heritage community to develop an evidence base for the full suite of economic, social and environmental benefits associated with recognising, protecting and celebrating Australia’s heritage, and to advocating for long-term recurrent funding which builds upon the legacy left by the $60m heritage job fund negotiated by the Australian Greens back in 2009.

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Amazing Stories: Innovation and Invention Heritage Festival Highlights 2012 Gina pickering | Editor, National Trust (WA)

Heritage Festival attractions featured in diaries everywhere during April and May. The choices and experiences were vast. Around the country events included a talk or lecture, a tour or walk, an exhibition or open day, a concert or a play. Everywhere people were invited to celebrate the unique innovation and inventiveness of Australia’s natural, Aboriginal and historic heritage.

ational Trusts in each state and territory organised events of every colour and shape and partnered with diverse communities to value heritage. The festival program was sponsored by the Commonwealth Government and coincided with the national heritage celebration, Australia Heritage Week which was held in April.

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handcrafted silver locket from Hessian, Wind and Water, which featured in The Safe Keeping Exhibition. C Czerw. types of clay were used in the construction of muscles and facial features during a two day workshop. G Pickering. left The class from Reading Faces: The Art and Anatomy of Facial Approximation held at East Perth Cemeteries, Perth. S Hayes. right Members of the Kelly Project team from the Victorian Institute of Forensic Medicine. NTVIC Main image Two

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and i n v e n t i o n ANGELA Le Sueur | national Trust (NSW)

The NSW National Trust Heritage Festival started out with the main aim of making communities everywhere aware of their heritage and the need to look after it, as the best way of augmenting varying levels of support from traditional sources. Underlying all that was the message that heritage could be fun, rewarding and enriching. As the endless possibilities dawned, New South Wales got into action and the festival grew – and is now Australia-wide. A small taste of the smorgasbord of events that were on offer:

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esponding with creative gusto to this year’s theme, Amazing Stories: Innovation and Invention, local councils, businesses, community groups and individuals put together a massive total of 290 events around the state. Exhibitions, walking tours, open days, food fests – all were designed to encourage people of all ages to walk, talk, explore, eat, share and own their heritage. High achievers across the state were showcased and celebrated at the National Trust Heritage Awards; Trust properties held special open days, and in Sydney the National Trust Centre threw open the doors to historic Observatory Hill for the annual National Trust Day.

The Balmain Association highlighted some of the local problems and solutions faced by Sydney’s early suburbs with a photographic exhibition featuring innovations such as the early use of garbage waste disposal to generate electricity for use on the Balmain Peninsula, the search for refrigeration by Thomas Mort, and the the all-important cable tramway construction linking Balmain to the Darling Street Ferry. • A National Parks and Wildlife Service Aboriginal guide led visitors along the Burrawang Walk at Botany Bay, introducing some of the native plants and their uses that had sustained the Dharawal speaking people for many thousands of years. • How rural Campbelltown coped with water shortages in the early 1800s was explored by the Campbelltown and Airds Historical Society, with tours of the convict-built cattle tanks and reservoir followed by refreshments. • The City of Willoughby celebrated the area’s role in putting Australia up in lights. The first cinema in the area was opened in 1908 and its pioneer radio station, opened in 1923, was claimed to be the most powerful transmitter in the world. The birth of Australia’s television industry followed in 1956. • Hurstville City Council celebrated the diverse creative outcomes of its earlier residents, from the success of the automated baking process to the failed construction of oyster claires. Then there were the Hills Hoist and Victa Rotary Mower and, pièce de resistance, the meatpie with inbuilt sauce. Whatever next! • The Friends of Laperouse Museum Inc. invited guests to ponder the innovations brought by the French, from astronomy, the telegraph, defence – to aviation. • From the ‘neck to knees’ of the Edwardian era to the ‘itsy bitsy bikini’, Australia’s beach culture and the part played by fashion was presented by Manly Art Gallery & Museum in an exhibition that also looked at fabric and design innovations. The surfing culture of Sydney’s northern beaches was celebrated at the Avalon Recreation Centre with a film, talks and stories from the surfing famous. • Innovation and enterprise came together when former convict James Maiden recognised the opportunity presented by the convergence of stock routes from inland Australia. In 1845 he launched his great initiative; a punt crossing the Murray River at the right spot - and went on to found the town of Moama. The Heritage Festival celebration was organised by the Friends of Old Moama.

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Shire Council’s Rural Museum took visitors back to the early days of farming, mining and living in the region, with an exhibition which included the daily lives of pioneering rural families. Temora Rural Museum above Tram-lovers soaked up Sydney’s now vanished tram history tracing tram routes, viewing exhibitions and buying memorabilia in a three week tram-fest organised by Sydney Tramway Museum. M Pinches Trust News Australia august 2012

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Gilbert Toyne’s Wonderful Washing Invention and Harrisonia Histronicus

Alexandra Hill | National Trust (VIC)

iPhone App The Heritage Festival 2012 iPhone App premiered this year. App convenience ensured Victoria’s festival events, local regional attractions and accommodation were in reach in seconds. Using the App users could visit the Cape Otway Lighthouse, climb the stairs to the viewing station and use the App to find somewhere to have lunch and stay after their exciting heritage filled day. The Festival inspired Victorians in metro Melbourne, major regional centres and smaller communities throughout the state with more than 170 events including: • A rare open day at the Murtoa Stick Shed (known as the Cathedral of the Wimmera), a look inside the Salvation Army’s Limelight Department (the first registered Australian film producers and makers of the first Australian narrative costume drama), the participation of Melbourne Cricket Ground and many football clubs (all contributors to the invention of this uniquely Victorian game) and the bicentennial celebrations of life changing rail lines across Western Victoria. • On a cold and dark night at the Old Melbourne Gaol, the Kelly Project team from the Victorian Institute of Forensic Medicine and the State Archaeologist from Heritage Victoria discussed the findings of their investigation into Ned Kelly’s remains. The team was able to successfully identify Kelly’s skeletal remains, exhumed in 1929, but discovered the skull, stolen from the Old Melbourne Gaol in 1978, wasn’t his. The search field has narrowed but the mystery remains: whose skull was it? • In 1875 Jack’s Magazine was the largest gunpowder magazine in Victoria, precipitating Maribyrnong’s central role in the defence of Australia for over a century. Rarely open to the public, the Magazine tours provided a fascinating insight into this nationally significant site. • Owner Rachel Buckley became Ann Wigham, former founding publican of the 1862 Dunolly Hotel, for a weekend to the delight of tour goers. Rachel first encountered the memorable Hotel during last year’s Heritage Festival and immediately put in an offer to purchase it! She has since moved in and opened the partially restored hotel only 12 months later as part of this year’s Festival, hopefully to inspire other heritage enthusiasts.

In Geelong , there was a unique take on celebrating heritage with plays commissioned to recognise the unique stories of two of Australia’s most significant inventors, Gilbert Toyne and James Harrison. Gilbert Toyne, a local Geelong farrier and wheelwright, first patented his Aeroplane Rotary Clothes Hoist in 1911, well before the Hills Hoist in the 1940s. The production was dramatically performed at the former Toyne family home in Rippleside, beneath an original (and still used) 1923 hoist. As well as being the founding editor of the Geelong Advertiser, James Harrison was one of the ‘Fathers of Refrigeration’, perfecting refrigeration and freezing techniques on the banks of the local Barwon River. The play was held near the river to celebrate this pioneer in cultural, commercial, scientific and political fields.

Heritage Awards The Victorian Festival also incorporated the National Trust’s Heritage Awards program, partnering Trust Branches with local councils to recognise those in the community who have demonstrated excellence in retention, restoration and reuse of heritage places. The Trust’s commitment to celebrate and promote heritage expanded this year to include partners at the Cities of Ballarat, Greater Bendigo, Greater Geelong and Shires of Bass Coast, Indigo and Mornington Peninsula.

right Ballarat

Heritage Award winners. NTVIC 7

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WA heritage Festival gina pickering | National Trust (WA)

The Heritage Festival also produced some ground breaking combinations at some of Western Australia’s most precious heritage places. Reading Faces: The Art and Anatomy of Facial Approximation was held at East Perth Cemeteries. Within the intimate 1871 Gothic Chapel that is St Bartholomew’s, nine forensic initiates lined up for a two day workshop under the direction of Dr Susan Hayes, a facial anthropologist and Research Fellow with the University of Wollongong. In pairs the participants constructed with clay the facial muscles and features of a face, working directly on to a replica skull of a once living individual. National Trust (WA) Director of Conservation and Stewardship Sarah Murphy also delivered a talk and highlighted some section of the cemeteries which date to 1829 and the beginning of the Swan Colony through until their closure in 1899. At Old Fa r m Strawberry Hill, the National Trust (WA) displayed for the first time to members and the public a rare and important watercolour from the 1840s. The amateur painting was purchased at auction in 2010 and features the house, a group of Aboriginal people and a family group of settlers. The signature festival event for the National Trust in WA was the Safe Keeping exhibition curated by Catherine Czerw. Almost 3000 people attended this event which included more than 30 Coolgardie Safes which were collected from across the state for this innovative display. Artists were invited to respond to safes by exploring an aspect of natural, Aboriginal or historic heritage of value to past present and future generations.

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touches to some fine facial work. G Pickering NTWA Trust Director of Conservation and Stewardship, Sarah Murphy, highlighted sections of the East Perth Cemeteries which dates to the start of the Swan Colony. G Pickering NTWA Left Banksia Woodland was highlighted for its natural heritage values during the Safe Keping Exhibiion. C Czerw Right The Watercolour of Old Farm, Strawberry Hill from the 1840s. G Pickering NTWA Next National

Trust News Australia august 2012

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Left National Trust (TAS) coordinated 255 participants in this year’s Festival. NTTAS

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Marcus Beresford | Councillor National Trust SA

In South Australia, the National Trust embraced the heritage theme of Innovation and Invention with a new wiki website launched by Governor His Excellency Rear Admiral Kevin Scarce AC CSC RANR. A Heritage Conference was held at historic Rymill House (1881) Adelaide, with speakers including Simon Mo l e s w o r t h (President International National Trusts Organisation), Stuart Moseley (Connor Holmes development consultants), Stuart Henry (planning lawyer), Jason Schultz (architect) and Ben Hewett (SA Government Architect). The latter promoted a vision of new development alongside a strong heritage agenda, rather than “development through demolition”. A walking tour was held at historic West Terrace Cemetery which showcased remnant native vegetation and explored the site of the first crematorium in the southern hemisphere (1903). An extended Heritage Festival ran until the end of May, incorporating hundreds of events in South Australia’s History Month and provided access to 50 buildings during Open House Adelaide.

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Tas heritage festival Matt Smithies | Community Heritage Officer National Trust (Tas)

Iconic Museum of Old and New Art (MONA) was the launch pad for the 2012 Tasmanian Heritage Festival which attracted a record number of events throughout the state confirming the festival’s status as the largest celebration of Tasmania’s cultural heritage. With 255 participants this year, Tasmania is responsible for coordinating one of the largest heritage festivals in Australia, 45 to 50 individual events were held each day throughout the month of May. Fifty two thousand people attended festival events which included local, interstate and international visitors. Tourism Tasmania Chief Executive Officer said “thanks to the National Trust, and those who participated in delivering the Festival, the 2012 program provided an outstanding array of options that serve to highlight the diversity and wealth of heritage offerings in the state”. The Tasmanian Heritage Festival highlights the strong relationship fostered by the National Trust of Australia (Tasmania) between the heritage, tourism, education sectors and a wide range of community based organizations promoting social inclusion. Tasmanian Minister for Environment, Parks and Heritage said at the festival launch held at the iconic MONA “ I would like to thank the participating groups, organizations and hundreds of volunteers for working so hard. Without their work we would not be able to share our Island State’s historic heritage with others in our community and visitors. As you can see from the depth of this year’s program it is a tremendous achievement.”

above National Trust SA took a digital approach to the Festival. NTSA left West

Terrace crematorium site. M Beresford. NTSA

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Queensland heritage festival Sue Finnigan | Communication Manager National Trust (Qld)

One of the highlights of the Heritage Festival in Queensland was ‘Yanguwah’, which means ‘welcome’. Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary on the Gold Coast immersed its guests in an evening of Indigenous culture and native wildlife experiences. The night included a traditional welcome ceremony, Kup Murri feast, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander song and dance performances and an introduction to native Australian animals and their connection to Aboriginal people. The 2012 Heritage Festival was opened in Brisbane by The Honourable Lord Mayor Graham Quirk and a book celebrating 20 years of Heritage protection was launched at the event by Queensland Heritage Minister Andrew Powell. About 100 Heritage Festival events were held across Queensland ranging from Cooktown in the north to the Gold Coast in the south. Activities included a wide range of exhibitions and displays, Indigenous dance celebrations, a highland Celtic fling, pipe bands, concerts, special open days of heritage properties, churches, cemeteries, museums, as well as rides on unique transport, high teas and themed dinners and more.

above Aboriginal

heritage was celebrated at Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary with a the ‘Kup Murri’ which included a selection of meat and vegetables cooked over hot coals in an earth oven. Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary right Jaran Dance Troupe performs “Yanguwah” a traditional welcome ceremony as part of the Heritage Festival. Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary centre Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary guests enjoyed a selection of dishes from the hot coals. Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary Trust News Australia august 2012

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Garden Island beginnings Dr Steve Errington Councilor | National Trust (WA)

r Steve Errington has represented the Royal West Australian Historical Society on the National Trust of Australia (WA) Council since 2008. He taught chemistry at Curtin University for more than 40 years before retiring as Head of Department in January 2009 to pursue a lifelong passion for WA colonial history. In the winter of 1829 a little town was built on Garden Island. It was only temporary but it was the first free settlement in Australia. The townspeople were Lt Governor James Stirling and his officials and tradesmen, together with their wives and children. They were 81 in all and were joined by some soldiers of the 63rd Regiment and their families. Captain Fremantle had arrived earlier on the Challenger, claimed the western third of Australia for King George IV, built a fort near Arthur‘s Head and dug some wells and planted vegetables near Cliff Point on Garden Island. On June 1 – foundation day – the Parmelia had moored off Rottnest Island but the following day she was nearly wrecked when sailing into Cockburn Sound. Stirling decided to make a temporary settlement on the island. On June 8 the tradesmen started building houses for Stirling, harbourmaster Mark Currie and other officers as well as houses for their own families. They were helped by men of the 63rd and crew of the troopship Sulphur which arrived that day, and sailors from the Challenger. They cleared and fenced land for the government gardener, put up a hospital tent for the colonial surgeon and a big store for government storekeeper John Morgan. For one shilling a day the Parmelia people collected navy rations - salt beef and pork, flour and dried peas with a little tea and sugar. This was supplemented by snapper from the Sound, kangaroo (probably island tamar) and black cockatoo. Soon there were fresh eggs and, early in September, keen gardener Jane Currie proudly sent some turnips up to Government House. It was a very wet winter and the canvas roofs of the houses offered little protection – even Stirling needed an umbrella to keep his candle alight in the colony’s first Government House. But on July 20 the townspeople could relax and enjoy themselves. They saw Western Australia’s first horse race along the beach (won by the Governor’s pony), they climbed a greasy pole to try and win a ham perched above, played leap frog and enjoyed an outdoor lunch. On June 17 Stirling had His Majesty’s Settlement in Western Australia proclaimed and on August 12 a tree was felled to commence building Perth. Stirling moved to the capital in September and soon only Morgan’s family remained on the island. The settlement was abandoned in 1832 and burnt down by drunken soldiers off the Lonach in 1834. But thanks to some exciting work by archaeology staff from Notre Dame University, traces of our first town are slowly re-emerging from the scrub. For more information contact

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histwest@git.com.au

Steve Errington has represented the Royal West Australian Historical Society on the National Trust of Australia (WA) Council since 2008. G Pickering Island lies five kilometers west of the WA mainland, off the Rockingham forshore.

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Your Community Heritage Grants $9.8 million in new federal funding will support 237 heritage projects across Australia. A range of National Trust applications to the Your Community Heritage grant round have been successful in bringing valuable conservation and interpretation programs to significant heritage places in capital cities and regional towns.

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Rippon Lea Success Louise Foxley and Jane Thomas | National Trust (VIC)

ippon Lea House and Gardens will receive $350,000 for a Roof Restoration and Carbon Footprint Reduction Project. Consisting of three innovative elements the project is geared towards marrying best practice heritage conservation with environmentally sustainable measures to ensure a responsible approach to the future of the site. National Trust of Australia (Vic) Chairman Dr Graeme Blackman said the Trust was delighted by such a significant funding commitment to this important heritage asset. Constructed in 1868 Rippon Lea was the subject of a groundswell of community support to save the site in the 1960s. “We thank the Federal Government for continuing to support heritage places and spaces”, Dr Blackman said. Above Chairman

Rippon Lea is a site of national significance and is listed on the National Heritage Register. The grant has unlocked a further $350,000 of external matched funding thanks to the Andrews Foundation bringing the total project allocation to $703,000. The grant is one of the biggest ever given to Rippon Lea by the Federal Government and will make a significant contribution to the Trust’s aim of ensuring the building and gardens will continue to be enjoyed by locals and international visitors for generations to come. National Trust of Australia (Vic) CEO Martin Purslow said the three stages of the project will help to deliver Rippon Lea as an environmentally sustainable heritage site. “The first element of this project will see major restoration

works to the roof. This will include replacing the 1960s Marseille pattern glazed terracotta roofing tiles with reproduction terracotta shingles in keeping with the original design intent for the building,” Mr Purslow said. Major repairs will also be undertaken to the roof structure which has significantly degraded in recent years, leaving Rippon Lea’s significant interior vulnerable to water ingress and damage. Michael Danby said he was looking forward to seeing the positive impact the project will have on the community by celebrating what makes Rippon Lea so unique.

Dr Graeme Blackman, CEO Martin Purslow and Michael Danby MP discuss the federal grant for extensive works at Rippon Lea. NTVIC

Trust News Australia august 2012

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Setting the facts straight at Harper’s Mansion Angela le Sueur | National Trust (NSW)

he NSW National Trust property Harper’s Mansion in historic Berrima will receive a $19,500 grant to publish a book about its 178 year old history. Historian Ann Beaumont leads the project team and is researching and writing the history which will cover the occupation of the Harper family until 1846, ownership of the property by the Catholic Church for 120 years, and the rescue of the property and its restoration by the Trust in 1979. Overlooking Berrima in the Southern Highlands, the 1830s colonial house set in two acres of grounds including gardens and a large maze, is as significant for its role in the history of the region and colony as for its early occupants and associations. Over the decades however, facts about its past had become hazy, with myths perpetuated so that, until recently, a number of important questions had been left unanswered. When work began to verify or discount the scant details about James Harper, his convict father William and the origins of the house, a very different story to that passed on to the Trust in 1979 began to emerge. As Ann Beaumont explains, much of the new research is based on primary sources. These are bringing to light a deeper and more accurate understanding of the property and its place in the region. As well as the satisfaction which comes from putting the facts straight, this new knowledge and the book now made possible by the grant adds certainty and dimension to the story of Harper’s Mansion, its place and its people. It will be welcomed by the local community, the dedicated team of volunteers who run Harper’s Mansion, and the many visitors to one of the National Trust’s best-loved properties.

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Walking Tours Step Into the 21st Century Louise Foxley and Jane Thomas | National Trust (VIC)

he National Trust (Vic) is breathing new life into the way Melbournians and visitors interpret the culture and history of the city with a new Smart Phone application for walking tours. Since 2004 the National Trust has provided guided walking tours and printed publications including Women’s Melbourne and Walking Melbourne. Hot on the heels of the National Trust’s latest three iPhone apps success stories Trust Trees, Lost! and the 2012 Heritage Festival - the new App will provide an interactive, informative and entertaining introduction to Melbourne’s history. The Federal funding has provided $22,000 for this innovative project. Above Smart

phone applications have an increasing profile in heritage. NTVIC

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Mansion basking in late afternoon sun. NTNSW 13

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New funding Qld

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Sue Finnigan | National Trust (QLD)

Chris Tassell | National Trust (TAS)

n Queensland, two National Trust projects have benefited from funding. The Trust received $12,818 for the interpretation of Grandchester Railway Station which will see an innovative partnership between the Trust and Queensland Rail to reveal the stories linked to this significant chapter in Queensland rail history. The Trust also received $8,636 to support a pilot Open Day for its Great Houses of Ipswich project. Ipswich has many great examples of historic houses and gardens, from workers’ cottages to grand mansions, lovingly cared for by their owners. The Great Houses of Ipswich project is a partnership between these owners and the Trust which will coordinate special events and garner support for heritage.

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New funding WA Gina Pickering | National Trust (WA)

n Western Australia the Trust secured $161,000 to undertake research and replace the roof (some of which dates back to the 1880s) at Old Farm Strawberry Hill, Albany. A further $27,000 will fund the bush fire recovery program at Ellensbrook, while $25,000 will finance the development of a project to scope the concepts and content of a digital trail through beachside Cottesloe focusing on the family of former Prime Minister John Curtin, their life in the suburb and the suburb itself. In partnership with the University of Western Australia, the Trust will also contribute to a new project entitled Rivers of Emotion which will consider the emotional history of the Swan and Canning Rivers through a symposium and the development of a web based platform that includes contributions from community groups about their emotional links to the Rivers.

showers on the Swan River. K Lammonby

Trust News Australia august 2012

This project will form part of the Australian Fly Fishing Museum. It will focus on the period from the 1930s to the 1960s considered by many as being a golden age of trout fishing, particularly in Tasmania with events such as the Shannon Rise that attracted fly fishers from around the world. The project received $25,000. The Mt Lyell Miners – Mt Lyell Mine Office Precinct, Queenstown

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The Story of Fly Fishing in Australia – Clarendon, Evandale

The Mt Lyell Story will document the experiences of the miners and the many others who worked at the Mt Lyell Mine, Tasmania’s greatest nineteenth century industrial undertaking. Continuously in operation for more than a century, the story of Mt Lyell differs greatly from Australia’s other great mines because of its isolation, surrounding rugged landscape and temperate climate with an exceedingly high annual rainfall. The project received $24,900. Home from the War Stories of WWI War Services Homes This project will centre on the War Services Homes Commission activities in Tasmania and the stories of the War Service Homes’ families by focusing on the lives of the original 36 householders in the Newstead War Services Homes precinct, Launceston. The project will encompass both official records and community involvement through oral histories and private records and artefacts. The project receives $25,000 in support.

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Clarendon, the perfect setting for the new Australian Fly fishing Museum Matt Smithies | Community Heritage Officer National Trust (Tas)

Early morning fog is lifting from the magnificent façade of Clarendon and the first rays of sun are filtering through what promises to be a clear blue Tasmanian winter sky.

uilt on the banks of the South Esk river in 1838 by James Cox, Clarendon today is the legacy of an inspirational visionary. Cox’s agricultural enterprises prospered at a time when northern Tasmania was the food bowl for Australia exporting large quantities of grain not only to New South Wales but also India, Mauritius and the Cape Colony. As well as growing grain, Cox was involved from the beginning in the development of the fine wool industry in Tasmania having imported merino rams from both the Macarthur stud in NSW and directly from Europe. Cox also had a keen interest in rare breed poultry and took an active role in the introduction of brown trout into Tasmania. It is reported that in 1867, Cox acquired some 200 to

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300 trout ova which were placed in northern Tasmania’s first purpose built holding ponds and hatching boxes. Clarendon is the perfect setting and new home of the Australian Fly Fishing Museum. Throughout 2011 significant conservation work took place on many of Clarendon’s outbuildings which previously were unavailable to the public due to a range of conservation and safety reasons. With support from the Tasmanian Community Fund, the bakery, laundry, dairy, shearing shed, poultry shed and stables have subsequently been interpreted under the careful direction of Curator Rhonda Hamilton, and now provide visitors with a broader view of what life may have been like at Clarendon. Located in the Shepherd’s Cottage, The Australian Fly Fishing Museum is also a beneficiary of the completed conservation work and its inception is another important component to Clarendon’s planned future. This vision is focused on enhancing the visitor experience and presenting specific aspects of Clarendon’s rich history in a contemporary, engaging and relevant manner.

intricacy of fishing flies. M Stevens 15

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The concept of interpreting fly fishing at riverside Clarendon has been in the pipe line for several years and to see the project finally come to fruition under the direction of a newly established steering committee with national representation is very exciting. The committee includes well known fishing identity Rex Hunt along with representatives from New South Wales, Victoria and Tasmania. It is anticipated that the Museum will officially open in May 2013. Curator Rhonda Hamilton has commenced research work on what is going to be an international standard exhibition including static and interactive displays. An experienced angle fly – tyer will be in residence offering visitors the opportunity to try fly fishing on the South Esk River and to witness the art and skill of fly tying. Rhonda is currently embarking on a national search seeking the donation of objects to help enrich the collection representing Australia’s extraordinary fishing heritage. Closer to home, anyone owning fly fishing objects who is considering entrusting them to an organisation dedicated to increasing the public awareness of Australia’s angling history, should contact the National Trust (Tas) on 03 6344 6233 or admin@ nationaltrusttas.org.au

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40 Years of the Aboriginal Tent Embassy Sarah Holt-Foreman | Heritage Officer National Trust (WA)

The Aboriginal Tent Embassy has been part of Canberra’s physical and political landscape since Australia Day in 1972 when Indigenous activists erected a beach umbrella on the lawns of Old Parliament House.

ichael Anderson, Billy Craigie, Bertie Williams and Tony Koorie set up the protest and erected a sign that said ‘Embassy’ to represent a displaced nation. Since then the ‘Embassy’ has intermittently existed on the lawns of Old Parliament House since 1972 and permanently since Australia Day 1992. Despite some labelling the Tent Embassy as an eyesore, its existence over the past 40 years has seen it become an icon of the Aboriginal rights movement and a national icon for all Australians. The embassy began as a response to the McMahon Coalition Government’s refusal to recognise land rights. The embassy’s protest over government policy, along with the Gurindji people’s walk off at Wave Hill and the Nabalco case of 1971, became a cornerstone in the history of the land rights movement in Australia. The tents erected in 1972 on the lawns of Old Parliament House were removed twice by the Liberal Government, by use of police force, territory and planning guidelines and direct negotiations. From 1975, the Embassy was intermittently closed and re-erected in line with the political climate at the time. In 1979 the embassy, by then reestablished on Capital Hill, site of the proposed new Parliament House, called for a Bill of Aboriginal Rights and recognition of Aboriginal Sovereignty. In 1992 it became a permanent fixture,

representing the ongoing struggle for Aboriginal sovereignty and land rights. In 1995 the Aboriginal flag (red, black and yellow) designed by Aboriginal artist Harold Thomas, achieved official status, albeit with some opposition. Development of the flag began in 1972 and its history is interwoven with the embassy. In 1995 the Embassy was listed on the Australian Heritage Commission’s National Estate. It is the only place recognised nationally for the political struggle of Aboriginal people. The listing recognised the significance of the site, not only for the political struggle of the Aboriginal Tent Embassy, but also through its occupation by the Ngunnawal people and the protest by Aboriginal elder Jimmy Clements, at the opening of Parliament House in 1927. Considering the failure in achieving a treaty, dissension

over Native Title and debate on the Preamble, devolution of the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Commission’s responsibilities and a lessening government emphasis on self-determination, it would seem unlikely that demands for recognition of sovereignty will be easily achieved. Consequently the Aboriginal Tent Embassy is likely to remain a feature in Canberra for the foreseeable future. In 2012 NAIDOC Week recognised the 40th Anniversary of the Aboriginal Tent Embassy and those who renewed the spirit of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples. The founders of the embassy are recognised for instilling pride, advancing equality and educating the country on the rights of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples. Moving forward in a spirit of unity we acknowledge a significant milestone both for Aboriginal people and for our nation’s history.

Left The Aboriginal Tent Embassy against the backdrop of Old Parliament House on 30th anniversary of Aboriginal Tent Embassy, Canberra, 26 January 2002. S Loui. National Library of Australia right The Aboriginal Tent Embassy on its 30th anniversary, Canberra, 26 January 2002. S Loui. National Library of Australia

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Peeling Away the Layers Linda Clark | Conservation Manager National Trust (Tas)

One of the privileges and pleasures of working as a Conservation Manager for the National Trust (Tas) is the opportunity it provides to linger inside old buildings, to explore hidden attics and crawl through dark passages below stairs, to scrape away paint layers and uncover hints of lives past.

recently found myself inside a derelict, mid nineteenth century farm cottage in northern Tasmania. Wandering among falling timbers, with the sound of possums scurrying above, I discovered layer upon layer of degraded wallpaper peeling away from the rough sawn wooden walls and ceilings in each of the four small rooms. The pride the owners of this modest cottage had taken in their home is obvious with between eight and fifteen layers of wallpaper per room and more than forty different patterns in the house. Both changing tastes and technological advances in wallpaper are reflected in the different layers and designs, ranging from pictures cut from newspapers, pulp wallpapers where the simple pattern has been printed directly onto the paper surface, intricate floral designs on thicker, but brittle paper, gothic influenced designs, imitation wood patterns and more. Surprisingly, the earliest

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papers pasted on hessian have some of the brightest colours and most vivid patterns, in spite of suffering loss from the ravages of silverfish. The advent of machinemade paper in continuous rolls in the early nineteenth century significantly reduced the cost of wallpaper, making it affordable for ordinary Australians. As in this Tasmanian cottage, it seems to have been a common practice to redecorate every five to six years, often papering over existing layers. Possibly the thick layers provided insulation, keeping the cold nights at bay. Or perhaps it was just the easy option, in spite of contrary advice in popular magazines to remove old wallpaper, “as not only does the paste of the old papering decompose, and become in itself injurious to health, but each covering of paper

only adds to the absorbent nature of the walls, and helps to increase therefore the unhealthiness and stuffiness of the room.” As I separate and discover the different wallpaper layers, I often reflect on who might have selected these designs, what was happening in the world at that time and did this influence their choice. It also reminds me of the important role the National Trust has in preserving and sharing these rich and wonderful stories.

of wallpaper fragments from a 19th century cottage in northern Tasmania. NTTAS reveal technical, aesthetic and social values. NTTAS

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Out of the Ashes Peter Murphy | Conservation Officer National Trust (WA)

When a Department of Environment and Conservation prescribed burn swept through the Margaret River district in November 2011, Australians watched in horror as one of Western Australia’s most popular tourism destinations went up in smoke.

omes and tourism infrastructure were damaged during the inferno, with up to 40 buildings destroyed and many livelihoods lost. The event has been the subject of a governmental inquiry including debate on how much compensation the state government should pay to those residents who lost their homes.

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But what about the fire’s effects on the native flora and fauna in this internationally recognised biodiversity hotspot. The blaze swept through the habitat of some of Australia’s rarest fauna species, including the Western Ringtail Possum, Brushtailed Phascogale, Chuditch, Western Pygmy-Possum, Honey Possum, Carpet Python and Forest

Red-tail Black Cockatoo. It can take generations for these types of fauna to return from such a catastrophe. However, it is possible to roughly gauge how some of the regions flora and fauna may have fared during the inferno, by visiting the private property ‘Glenbourne’ in the Margaret River district which was established by the Margaret River Conservation Farming

aerial view reveals how close the November 2011 fires came to National Trust property, Ellensbrook. J Ives and J Towndrow. before the fire. P Murphy. Regrowth six months on. P Murphy

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Club (MRCFC) in the early 70s. This bushland is protected with a covenant under the National Trust (WA) Conservation Covenanting Program and is home to a rich array of animals including up to 80 species of birds, 39 species of vertebrates and hundreds of invertebrates. Part of MRCFC’s management regime also includes fire management, which involves buffer-burning (around the property’s perimeter), raking debris and utilising strategic walk-trails as fire-breaks which divide the bushland into easy access-zones in event of fire, with all of these fire precautions complemented by a fire emergency and escape plan. I returned to Glenbourne as part of the National Trust’s three-yearly stewardship visit to find a charred unrecognisable landscape. Two thirds of Glenbourne’s 130-hectare bushland was incinerated in the November 2011 fire. Gone was the small population of rare Western Ringtail Possums, whose dreys once peppered the canopies of the tall ancient p e p p e r m i nt s s h a d i n g t h e meandering Ellen Brook. Gone too, were the Carpet Python, Brushtailed Phascogale, Gould’s Monitor and sounds of quacking frogs, along with melodic songs of numerous bird species I had watched flutter throughout the dense lush karri/ jarrah forest understorey. But it was the acrid aroma emanating from the baked soil and surrounding charred landscape that choked my sense of smell. Fire has played an important

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evolutionary role in shaping the South West landscape and the Noongar people, for thousands of years, managed the forest and bushland with fire-stick farming. The Department of Conservation and Land Management (now DEC) began to implement prescribed fire in the 1960s in response to a wildfire that destroyed the town of Dwellingup, and along with a need to apply fire to stimulate growth in karri and jarrah stands as part of their sivicultural practices. Where to start documenting and photographing the most recent damage to the bushland’s ecosystem was challenging and required comparisons with past surveys of flora and fauna, vegetation and soil types, feral predators (and their activities), invasive weeds, fire history, dieback, riparian zone flow, leaf-lerp attack, number of habitat trees, fencing, drought and more. After spending several hours documenting the damage to the bushland and taking several photographs along with GPS readings, I made my way back to the humble homestead which escaped the fire to discuss the circumstances further with MRCFC members Dave Rankin, Sandy Hancock and founding member Alan Taylor. Thankfully I was able to share some good news from my expedition: Western Ringtail Possum and Brushtail Possum scats were found towards the north boundary, while a healthy Emu pat was found near the rock formation. I also noted a family of Red-wing Wrens merrily chirping as they made their way through the newly sprouted undergrowth. The planned rehabilitation of the bushland includes repairing

the enormous ecological damage done by bulldozers that gouged large firebreaks throughout the bushland in a failed effort to try and slow the fire down. Hundreds of metres of fencing including gates and strainers also needs to be replaced. Numerous invasive weeds, such as Arum Lily, Wild Fig, Bridal Creeper, Nightshade and Cape Gooseberry have exploded in the bushland’s riparian zones. The fire has stimulated old seed-stock stored in the soil, and has also provided a cocktail of rich organic nutrients in the form of potash and alluvial soils washed down into the gullies from the first rains since the fire.

Where to for Glenbourne’s recovery program is uncertain, as programs of this magnitude not only require a huge amount of resources, equipment, expertise and volunteers but also require a long-term management plan that could possibly take decades to fully implement. The National Trust is now working with the MRCFC to obtain a conservation grant through the State Natural Resource Management funding program to support the restoration of Glenbourne’s ecological and biodiversity values.

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damage post fire along the northern boundary at Glenbourne in May 2012. P Murphy Murphy, Conservation Officer amongst a weed explosion in the riparian zone south of rock feature. NTWA 19

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Tourism Aewra 2012 rd SAUMAREZ HOMESTEAD WINS COVETED TOURISM AWARD Angela le Sueur | National Trust (NSW)

At a time when house museums everywhere are finding the going tough, at the June announcements of the 2012 Armidale & District Business Chamber Awards, the NSW National Trust’s Saumarez Homestead in Armidale was judged winner of the Tourism category, triumphing over many other popular tourism venues in the region.

he result was directly attributable to the energy and commitment of staff, volunteers and the Saumarez Homestead Advisory Committee (SHAC) and, in particular, to Property Manager Les Davis. Thanks to a fresh and determined business approach driven by Les, income increased during 2011/2012 by a dramatic 61% over the previous year, visitors poured in – and the large and complex property is flourishing. Barely changed since the days when a workforce of many families enabled the pastoral property to achieve almost complete selfsufficiency, the fabric of Saumarez has always provided visitors with a wealth of opportunities to learn about life on one of the largest and most successful rural enterprises of 19th century New England. The downside for those directly responsible for its conservation, interpretation and management has been the considerable challenge presented by the highly significant, ten-hectare, grazing property with its 30 room Edwardian mansion, gardens and 15 farm and other buildings – all well over a century old. Complete with its original furnishings, the mansion also

houses some 6,500 house collection items, while a further 3,500 or so items in the farm collection, once used and maintained by many

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hands, are an essential part of a picture recalling other times and their challenges. Most of the food was grown,

Decorative and Fine Arts Society (ADFAS) Narrabri Arts & Crafts Tour, Saumarez. NTNSW Jillian Oppenheimer OAM as Molly the Maid, on an ‘Unseen Saumarez’ tour. NTNSW bottom right Saumarez volunteers at the 2012 Farm Fair. (L-R) Robyn Reid, Bev Eichorn, Cherry Franklin, Libby Davis and Beryl Wood. NTNSW

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Between the lines harvested or slaughtered on the property, trees were felled to provide wood for cooking, heating and building, water was pumped from the wells or creek, transport was supplied by station-bred horses, shod in the on-site forge, and wool and stock were transported by rail. An Edna Walling - style flower garden, a picking garden and lawns still complete the picture and help to illustrate the effort needed to keep the story alive. In the 21st century, there is as much need for Saumarez Homestead to be selfsufficient as ever before. Powered by the energy of Property Manager Les Davis, supported by the Committee and a small team of staff, the new approach has centred on enhancing and increasing visitor experiences, augmenting income streams, building the property’s already committed team of volunteers, and effective marketing to attract new levels and sources of visitation. As well as the garden, farm and house tours which have always been a main attraction, Saumarez has considerably increased its range of special tours for adults and school groups. Decorative and Fine Arts societies have enthusiastically taken advantage of new tours focusing on the finer details of the fine arts, ceramics, craft and furniture of the main house collection, their visits often extending over two or three days. Visitors of all ages enjoy hearing the gossipy tales of Molly the housemaid, on her ‘Unseen Saumarez’ tours, and the annual farm fair has become a regional highlight. Probus, Rotary and other Service clubs, seniors and special interest groups have also enjoyed the new range of tours and added other local attractions to their itinerary when visiting Saumarez Homestead, thereby increasing the viability of tourism in the region as a whole. In addition to ensuring the collection is well presented and conserved, Les and the SHAC have reorganised the large volunteer workforce, attracting and engaging new volunteers who enjoy the chance to participate in caring for Australian history, architecture, gardens and the decorative arts as part of a team sharing knowledge with others. Thanks to their efforts, retail sales increased by 180% during 2011/2012, function hire increased by almost 50% while catering and the tea room netted an outstanding 250% increase in takings. And, best of all, Saumarez Homestead looks fantastic!

Horace Dean: a Pocketful of Lies Author: Maurie Garland Publisher: Brolga Publishing, Victoria 2011 Reviewer: Marcus Beresford

This fascinating account of an American-born colonial settler in firstly South Australia (from 1849) and later New South Wales (1857 -1887) offers insights into both the societies of the time and an enigmatic character (who was well known in his day, but later forgotten). Horace Dean was instrumental in founding the District Council of Angaston in South Australia’s Barossa Valley and although elected as first Mayor, he was deprived of effective office through the intervention of George Fife Angas (one of the key figures in colonial settlement of SA). Similarly, he was twice elected to the South Australian Parliament, but disqualified through Angas’ intervention, a pattern repeated by others in NSW when Dean moved to live near the Manning River inland from the coast north of Sydney. The book suggests Angas used his prominent social position and the dependence of hundreds of German immigrants on his goodwill, to try and prevent Dean succeeding in local or state politics and having any chance of implementing his progressive political views. Similarly in New South Wales, Dean’s opponents used technicalities to stop his attempts to get elected despite strong support from electors. Although born in the USA, Dean appears to have had British parents, and his repeated disqualification on the technicality of “alien” seems puzzling and iniquitous. Dean was at various times a popular Barossa Valley doctor, a respected magistrate at Gawler SA, a New South Wales hotelier, local councillor, newspaper publisher and storekeeper. He died leaving over a million dollars at present-day values. Although Dean appears to have been very civic minded and a significant contributor to society, he also seems to have been an inveterate liar about his previous life in the USA and his forebears, which although causing no great harm, brought him down more than once. He apparently lied about his medical qualifications, a duel, his role in the Mexican wars, and possibly even his real name. The account of politics in the colonial period in both SA and NSW is rather different from that found in many traditional histories and the view of how colonial oligarchs manipulated the system to their own ends brings with it particular intrigue. The book is unusual in its focus on a somewhat controversial figure from the middle class, who took on colonial establishments. Garland’s colourful account of Dean’s life keeps the reader engrossed. The book has endnotes, a bibliography and is indexed. Available from Brolga Publishing, PO Box12544, A’Beckett St Victoria 8006, email markzocchi@brolgapublishing.com.au

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A far reaching legacy Gina Pickering | editor, National Trust (WA)

The legacies we leave can have far reaching and long term effects on families, friends and communities. Who could understate the gift of a great teacher, or the once in a lifetime opportunity that literally changes your life’s direction. Opportunity and decision are a powerful combination and still influence Woodbridge in Western Australia.

n September 2011, the National Trust received advice of the death of Suzette Harper. She was the last surviving niece of Aileen Fanny Harper, daughter of prominent and entrepreneurial Charles Harper and his wife Fanny. Just east of the historic Western Australian town of Guildford, you’ll find Woodbridge on the banks of the Swan River. Woodbridge is an imposing place which was vested in the Trust in 1968. It’s one of just a handful of rare historic metropolitan properties held in the National Trust (WA)’s portfolio.

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Harper family at home, with Aileen Harper wearing the white pinnie. NTWA by the Swan River, east of Guildford. NTWA right Funding for the maintenance of Woodbridge is outlined in a 1981 letter. NTWA

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Woodbridsgte a lasting legacy

For more information regarding bequests,

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sketch of Woodbridge. NTWA last will and testament of Aileen Fanny Harper. NTWA

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South West Trail Blazers Anne Brake | Interpretation Manager, National Trust (WA)

The National Trust of Australia (WA) is working with the Shire of Augusta-Margaret River and the City of Busselton on the development of what is anticipated to be an iconic Western Australian trail. The planned 106 km world class recreational, tourism and educational trail will showcase the natural, Aboriginal and historic heritage values of the former Busselton to Flinders Bay Railway corridor.

ocated in one of the world’s 25 biodiversity hotspots, Western Australia’s south west is one of the most beautiful areas in the state and home to rich Aboriginal and European histories. The area boasts internationally renowned surf beaches and a world class wine industry. The Wardandi and Pibelmen Noongars have lived in the south west of Western Australia for around 40 000 years and depended on the coastal wetlands for their needs. Since European settlement, they have continued to have a strong connection to their country and have also worked in the developing timber, railway and farming industries.

We are Wardandi remember, it means people of the sea, we never stayed away from the ocean too long. We followed the railway line when there was work but we always went back to the coast, we are saltwater people1. MC Davies was the most prominent of timber moguls in the district. His empire expanded rapidly in the 1880s including the laying of a number of railway lines to service his mills and take timber to jetties at Hamelin and Finders Bays for export. By 1913 the timber industry had declined and the railway from Augusta to Margaret River was bought by the government. It was extended to Busselton by 1925 to service the

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remaining timber industry, the original group settlements, farming and domestic passengers. The line eventually closed in 1957. Now more than 50 years on, the trail is destined to carry a new kind of passenger – walkers and cyclists who will join the legions of people internationally who are taking advantage of the burgeoning rail trail phenomena. Across the world old rail corridors, with their well constructed low gradient formations, are being transformed into recreational and heritage trails. In the United States alone over 20 000 kms of rail corridor has been converted into rail trail with over a million users a year. The New Zealand government committed $50m in 2009 to the development

significant collection of 1920s timber railway bridges is a feature of the trail landscape and will offer rich interpretation opportunities to visitors. L Margetts (Courtesy: John Ryland’s Library, Manchester) above right Members of the Wardandi community met with the interpretation team to inform the Aboriginal component of the rail trail which will extend from Busselton to Flinders Bay in Western Australia. L Margetts

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Eastern Barred Bandicoot Jane Thomas | Marketing & Communications Manager, National Trust (Vic)

A male Eastern Barred Bandicoot was released into the Donald and Claire Mackinnon Nature Reserve at the National Trust (Vic) property Mooramong in May.

of 18 rail trails across the country over a period of three years. Planning for this exciting project is nearing completion. With the assistance of Lotterywest, the two local government authorities and the National Trust, a range of key documents has been produced – an Aboriginal cultural values survey, an environmental survey, a trails plan, a business plan and an interpretation plan. These documents not only point the way for further development and construction of the trail, they provide the steering committee with a clear, well articulated and costed blueprint to approach funding bodies. The construction of the trail will provide a unique recreational facility for locals and visitors while conserving significant heritage values. There will also be a range of eco tourism opportunities arising from the trail and important social benefits including physical and mental health, fostering a sense of place and contributing to future lifestyle options. 1

Wayne Webb, oral statement, December 2011, Applied Archaeology, Cultural Heritage Vales Assessment for the Rails to Trails Project, draft, March 2012, Dowark Foundation, p23

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former rail trail is located within one of the world’s 25 biodiversity hotspots and extends 106 km through a variety of environments. L Margetts

ooramong is an historic property in Victoria’s western district, an area that once had large populations of the Eastern Barred Bandicoot. Numbers of this native marsupial have been in decline since heavy grazing in the area removed much of the local grass cover leaving the Bandicoots more prone to attack from feral cats and foxes.

Over the last decade Victoria’s consistently dry weather has also played a large part in the animal’s demise as it is not conducive to the marsupial’s breeding patterns. Only a small number of Eastern Barred Bandicoots remain on mainland Australia. The Donald and Claire Mackinnon Nature Reserve was developed in the late seventies and has been home to the endangered Eastern Barred Bandicoot since they were first introduced in 1992. The reserve is an example of the natural vegetation and habitat of the basalt plains of western Victoria as it existed before European settlement. A two hectare fox proof enclosure has been created within the Donald and Claire Mackinnon Nature Reserve to improve the breeding potential of the marsupials. The new male Bandicoot, from the Parks Victoria Serendip Sanctuary near Geelong, joins four female Bandicoots already living in the protected place. The Conservation Officer at Mooramong, David Coutts, is confident that the Eastern Barred Bandicoots will again thrive in the Nature Reserve under these new conditions. With National Threatened Species Day approaching on 7 September the National Trust (Vic) is proud of its continuing role of protecting this species from extinction. Above The Bandicoot released by Jim O’Brien, Senior Wildlife Officer for the Department of Sustainability & Environment, Victoria. NTVIC

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A stellar transit Nick Lomb | Curator of Astronomy, Sydney Observatory and the Powerhouse Museum

Despite intermittent clouds and rain, around 1500 people visited Sydney Observatory on 6 June 2012 to see the rare sight of Venus passing in front of the Sun. This event, called the transit of Venus, will not occur again until the summer of 2117 so very few, if any, of the people alive today will have a chance to see the next one. Fortunately, there were sufficient breaks between the clouds that all visitors to the Observatory managed to get a view of the black silhouette of Venus on the Sun. There was a range of telescopes to look through, each equipped with special filters to reduce the intensity of sunlight to safe levels.

here was also similar great public interest in the transit elsewhere in Australia. At Melbourne Observatory the weather was somewhat better so that the over 2000 people crowding into its vicinity had good views through telescopes operated by members of the Astronomical Society of Victoria. Elsewhere the weather varied, from a totally clear sky throughout all six and a half hours of the transit at the Sir Thomas Brisbane Planetarium, to total cloud cover at Perth Observatory. Transits of Venus are not only rare and spectacular events, but they have great historical significance, especially for Australians. Through Captain Cook, the British settlement of the country was linked to a transit of Venus. The British Government sent James Cook in charge of HM Bark Endeavour to Tahiti in the South Pacific to observe the transit of 3 June 1769. Afterwards he had secret orders to search for the unknown southern land, Terra Australis Incognita, that some British and European scientists had claimed was needed

to balance the continents in the northern hemisphere. Not finding this mythical land, Cook mapped New Zealand and, on his return voyage, reached and mapped the east coast of Australia and claimed the country for the British Crown. The next transit was in December 1874 and it was extensively observed from Australia. Sydney and Melbourne observatories not only viewed the transit from their own locations, but set up networks of field stations throughout their respective colonies in case of cloudy weather. Observations were also made from Adelaide Observatory, and there were two separate American observing teams in Tasmania. There were no official observations from Perth as the observatory in the west only began operating two decades later. Henry Chamberlain Russell, Government Astronomer for NSW and director of Sydney Observatory, made extensive preparations prior to the transit. He ordered a new large lens telescope for the south dome of the Observatory from

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a maker in Hamburg, Germany. He selected three country sites for his field stations: Goulburn in the Southern Tablelands, Eden on the South Coast and Woodford in the Blue Mountains. The site for the latter observing station was a property owned by Mr Alfred Fairfax which now belongs to the National Trust (NSW) and is known as the Woodford Academy. The transit was successfully observed at all the NSW sites with only Eden hampered by clouds. Russell himself made useful and careful observations of the beginning and end of the transit with the new large lens telescope as well as taking numerous photographs during the rest of the time. Most fittingly the telescope from 1874 was used to observe both the 21st century transits.

large-lens telescope in the south dome of Sydney Observatory as it is today. C Brothers. Powerhouse Museum, Sydney. children observing the 2012 transit at Sydney Observatory with special safe solar glasses. V Jacob. Powerhouse Museum, Sydney. Above Venus visible as it transits the sun. G Wyatt. Senior Astronomy Educator Powerhouse Museum, Sydney. right Three

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Left The large-lens telescope in the south dome of Sydney Observatory, photographed in the 1870s. Photograph from Observations of the Transit of Venus, 9 December, 1874. Courtesy Powerhouse Museum Research Library. Insert Henry Chamberlain Russell in a January 1898 photograph by commercial photographer J. Hubert Newman. Powerhouse Museum, Sydney bottom Henry Chamberlain Russell’s observations of Venus leaving the Sun at the end of the 1874 transit. Lithograph from Observations of the Transit of Venus, 9 December, 1874. Powerhouse Museum Research Library.

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An Australian Memorial at Mont St Quentin – not all it appears to be Dr Peter Dowling | national heritage officer, australian council of national trusts

I am filled with admiration at the gallantry and the surpassing daring of the 2nd Division in winning this important fortress and I congratulate them with all my heart. (General Sir Henry Rawlinson, describing the Australian victory at Mont St Quentin and Péronne in 1918)

ust north of the town of Péronne, in Picardie, Northern France is an eye-catching monument of an Australian Digger. It was erected to commemorate a fierce battle in 1918 for the town and Mont St Quentin to the north. Today the monument stands in a small memorial area snugly subsumed by suburban growth. Nevertheless, it is an imposing monument to Australians, with an intriguing history. The final battle for Mont St Quentin began in the early morning hours of 31 August 1918. It was part of the last great allied offensives of the First World War, which had begun on 8 August. At 5 am on 31 August Australian troops readied themselves for an attack on the German held town of Péronne and the high ground of Mont St Quentin. Lt General Sir John Monash recognised the key to the attack on the German defences was to take the height overlooking the plains of Picardie. An under-strength and exhausted 5th Brigade AIF charged up the slopes of Mont St Quentin from the north bank of the Somme River below. Yelling wildly in order to disguise their small numbers, the Australians ran into the German defenders. Amid much confusion as is often a part of battles, the Germans at first retreated with many surrendering. The Australians took the high ground of Mont St Quentin. Realising their dilemma the Germans later regrouped and successfully counter-attacked taking the summit again. The Australians held on grimly below. The next day the 6th Brigade renewed the attack and retook the heights while the 14th Brigade took part of Péronne. The following day, 2 September, Australian forces consolidated the Mont and seized the rest of the town. At a cost of some 3,000 casualties the Australians had nevertheless dealt the German defences a swift and decisive blow. The Germans had lost their hold on the Somme Valley and were forced to withdraw eastwards to the Hindenburg Line. Eight Victoria Crosses were won during the attacks on Péronne and Mont St Quentin between 31 August and 2 September.1 right The current statue of an Australian soldier atop the 2nd Division Memorial at Mont St Quentin, France. P Dowling

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original statue of an Australian soldier atop the monument. This was removed during the Second World War. P Dowling 2011, image enhancement L. Davie – image taken from bas relief panel on the monument

The memorial, dedicated to the 2nd Division AIF, depicts an Australian soldier high on a pedestal. The figure has his rifle slung over his shoulder and his bayonet is sheafed. He stands with his feet apart, hands looped around chest straps and he appears to be looking down to the ground in front, solemnly contemplating the battle he has just experienced and the loss of his comrades. Around the base of the pedestal basrelief panels tell the story of the battle. It is a memorial for quiet contemplation and respect. But the soldier standing atop the memorial is not the original. When the memorial was erected and formally dedicated in August 1925, it depicted an entirely different figure of an Australian Digger in a more aggressive stance. His rifle was held firmly in both hands, raised and the bayonet fixed. The Digger was standing over a wounded eagle at his feet and he was about to drive his bayonet into the bird and deliver a fatal blow to the heart. The eagle represented the badly wounded and faltering German nation at the hands of a proud but ruthless Australia justified in administering a fatal blow.

The monument reflected final victory and total dominance. The figure was the work of Australian sculpture Web Gilbert and the basrelief panels that of May ButlerGeorge. But what happened to it? Time and events have a way of turning things around and during the Second World War, Germany once again invaded northern France and occupied Péronne. Taking great offence at this aggressive Australian figure and what it represented, the German military authorities removed it and the panels completely. The story goes that the monument and panels were taken to Germany and smelted down. The Germans retained the remainder of the memorial but for thirty years no Digger stood atop the pedestal.

Not all lamented the loss of the aggressive figure. The Australian military historian John Laffin, whose father had fought at Mont St Quentin, thought it in ‘poor taste’ and members of the Mont St Quentin Memorial Committee, many of whom were from the 2nd Division, did not blame the Germans for pulling it down. But the empty pedestal and the deplete memorial caused concern for the RSL. They lobbied for a new replacement statue and replicas of the bas-relief panels. The Australian government agreed. It was not until 1971, when enmities had well abated that a Digger once again returned to the top of the pedestal and looked over the former battlefields. After some debate about the nature and stance of a new Australian Digger, the Victorian sculptor Stanley Hammond created the present form. This time his non-aggressive stance and reflective mood invoked no animosities. 1

Australian War Memorial www.awm.gov.au/atwar/thismonth A. Staunton 2005, Victoria Cross. Australia’s finest and the battles they fought, Hardie, Grant Books, Prahran.

Trust News Australia august 2012

N at i o n a l T ru s t Way

Holiday Tours

Since 1978 the National Trust Tours Committee has organised Australian and overseas tours to meet the interests of our members. Tours are carefully planned, researched and personally led by one of the voluntary members of the Committee, with detailed background notes provided. Numbers are strictly limited and one of the rewarding bonuses has been the number of friendships made and maintained among people who travel with a common interest.

NORFOLK ISLAND April 2013

ABOVE

The striking colours of autumn in New England

NEW ENGLAND (USA) IN THE FALL 7 - 21 October 2012 The sheer beauty of the autumn foliage in Vermont and New Hampshire in the eastern United States will absolutely astound you. Our tour will be led by Lorraine Collins who spent 20 years living in the United States and still visits regularly, and will start in Boston. Although it will have an autumn theme, there will also be an emphasis on the history and architecture around the regions of Massachusetts, Rhode Island, Vermont, New Hampshire and Maine, with its stunning autumn colours and some of the best seafood in the world. Visits to Salem and Old Sturbridge Village capture the essence of Colonial America as well as a visit to Plymouth where the pilgrims landed on the Mayflower. The tour also includes a visit to the Mansions of Newport, famous for its quaintness and the Americas Cup, and a day trip to Martha’s Vineyard. Where possible we will stay in hotels for 2 or 3 nights. Cost per person twin share: $5,690 Single room supplement: $1,550 Note: Costs do not include airfares Bookings: David Smith, Travelscene on Capri P: 1800 679 066 License No: TA1091 Tour Leader: Lorraine Collins T: 0439 947 479

Trust News Australia august 2012

Visiting Norfolk Island, rich in history and temperate in climate, is a unique experience. First settled by Governor Arthur Phillip as a penal settlement, the island later became home to the Pitcairn settlers, survivors of the Mutiny on the Bounty, and their families, descendants of whom still live there today. We will visit historic Kingston, Cascade and Longridge, tour museums, the sites of the First and Second settlements and the Pittcairn Settlers’ Village, soaking up unique convict history while enjoying the beauty of the beaches and golf course. The dramatic show Mutiny on the Bounty enacted by descendants of the mutineers, will bring the story of the Mutiny alive. Gastronomic delights are in store taking advantage of the fresh fish and traditional food of the island. Enquiries: David Smith, Travelscene on Capri P: 1800 679 066 License No: TA1091 Tour Leader: Lorraine Collins T: 0439 947 479

NEW ZEALAND’S SOUTH ISLAND COUNTRY ESTATE AND LANDSCAPE TOUR April 2013 Homestead Tours has once again designed this popular itinerary especially for National Trust members. Visit high country estates and historic homesteads, winemakers and local artists; explore this area amid the Southern Lakes and experience the generous hospitality of our hosts. We will travel in April when the autumn colours will be at their peak - a magical time of year to visit the South Island.

Unparalleled scenic variety awaits as we travel to Lake Tekapo, Lake Wanaka, Lake Hawea and Queenstown. With two or three night stays we have daily visits to private properties, historic homesteads, towns and villages. Expressions of interest: David Smith, Travelscene on Capri P: 1800 679 066 License No: TA1091 Leader: Jill Bunning T: 02 9798 8914

PROVENCE and THE FRENCH RIVIERA May 2013 Due to popular demand following two previous successful National Trust tours to Provence, we are planning another tour next year. Our first few days will be spent exploring the French Riviera, including the Villa Rothschild and the exciting new Bonnard museum. We then move to the heart of Provence where our leisurely daily excursions will include delightful towns such as Les Baux, St Remy, Arles and Nimes, Avignon and the region of Vaucluse. Unpack only twice and enjoy the south of France in the spring on this delightful tour. Expressions of interest: David Smith, Travelscene on Capri P: 1800 679 066 License No: TA1091 Leader: Loma Priddle T: 02 9412 2875

above The quaint lanes of St Remy, with their beautiful antique shops, patisseries and other temptations. left Spectacular colours and scenery await you on New Zealand’s South Island

Trust News Australia FEBRUARY 2012

NORTHERN ITALY: LAKES, MOUNTAINS & THE RIVIERA September 2013 Unpack only twice on this new tour tailor-made for National Trust members. From our first comfortable hotel on Lake Como we explore the surrounding villas, gardens and towns and visit Lake Lugano in Switzerland. Our second base is in the delightful town of Santa Margherita Ligure on the Italian Riviera where our leisurely daily excursions will include the spectacular coastline of the â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;Cinque Terreâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;. Our Italian hosts, Ugo and Barbara Mariotti, have been conducting tours for the National Trust over the past 10 years. Expressions of interest: David Smith, Travelscene on Capri P: 1800 679 066 License No: TA1091 Leader: Jill Bunning T: 02 9798 8914

Trust News Australia august 2012

Have these RICH reds delivered to you by the National Trust Wine Service and SAVE $100 FREE

Delivery Gold

Gold

A.T. Richardson One Stone Shiraz 2009, Barossa Valley, SA

Hamilton Block by Leconfield Cabernet 2010, Coonawarra, SA

Barossa Shiraz at its big and beefy best! Rich and ripe berry characters, with a hint of chocolate, mocha and black pepper spice. A delight with shepherd’s pie.

Cabernet and the Coonawarra go hand in hand and this expertly balanced example is from old Cabernet masters, Leconfield.

McPherson Full Fifteen 2011, South Australia With a big 15% alcohol, this powerfully smooth Aussie exclusive is perfectly balanced by ripe berry fruits and toasty oak. Drink in a big glass with roast lamb.

Ferngrove Cabernet Merlot 2009, Frankland River, WA

Albacore Reserve Shiraz Deep Woods ‘Ebony’ Cabernet Shiraz 2009, 2010, McLaren Vale, South Australia Margaret River, WA

With luxurious blackberry notes, supple texture and a long finish, 5-star rated Ferngrove make modern cool-climate wines of elegance and refinement.

Rare, Gold-medal winner with layers of ripe cherry and blackcurrant with hints of chocolate and mint. Perfect with hearty venison pie.

Crafted from a tiny parcel of McLaren Vale fruit, this steak-friendly Shiraz from big-red specialist, Steve Grimley, is bursting with ripe dark fruits and a long finish.

Plus FREE Members of the National Trust are invited to taste a selection of luxurious red wines from champion smaller estates, delivered to your door by the National Trust’s own wine service ... at below cellar-door prices. These great wines are only $139.99 – saving you $103.91 – plus you will receive 3 FREE bottles of smooth McLaren Vale Shiraz, worth $53.97. That’s $297.87 worth of wine for just $139.99, including free delivery. Stocks are limited – please call 1300 763 403 now quoting ‘7771001’, then sit back and let the National Trust Wine Service do the rest.

Three bottles of classic, peppery Woolundry Road Shiraz from the heart of the McLaren Vale (worth $53.97)

Order now on 1300 763 403 quoting ‘7771001’ or visit www.nationaltrustwineservice.com.au/trustnews

Terms and conditions: Offer valid for new customers only. Maximum three bottles of Woolundry Road Shiraz per household. While stocks last. Orders not accepted (nor will wine be delivered to) persons under the age of 18 years. Most orders are fulfilled within a week but please allow up to 14 days. If a wine becomes unavailable, a similar wine of greater value may be supplied. Normal retail prices provided by the wineries. If you don’t like a wine for any reason National Trust Wine Service will refund you and arrange to collect the wine. Fulfilled by Wine People Pty Ltd (licence no. 514 00724). 90 Chalk Hill Rd., McLaren Vale, SA 5171