Bushrangers

Bushrangers 

Both sides fired at point blank range and Snodgrass and Gourlay of the squatters group narrowly escaped with their lives.  With the arrival of reinforcements, the bushrangers were greatly out numbered and the gang gave themselves up after a long period of negotiations.  The bushrangers were taken handcuffed to Melbourne where a large crowd of excited spectators lined the route. After a short trial, the miscreants were executed in late June 1842 at a public execution near Bowen Street Melbourne, the site of the Old Gaol.

The career of the bushrangers had a connection with our own area. Major Newman at Pontville was attacked by this same band of bushrangers. It was said that some of the bushrangers knew that Major Newman had been a convict supervisor in Tasmania, so they decided to shoot him, but Mrs Newman hid her husband in the wide chimney of the house and so saved him from certain death.

The whole outrageous affair so stirred up settlers in the Plenty area that the police magistrate wrote to Governor La Trobe asking him to form a volunteer corps to defend them from attack.

Other settlers living in remote parts of the colony requested a protective force chiefly to defend themselves from possible attacks by aborigines and these petitions almost led to the formation of the Port Phillip Volunteers. This did not occur as it was felt that such a corps could lead to an undesirable state of war between Europeans and Aborigines.

Source: 1999 12 DTHS Newsletter

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''YANKEE JACK" - A BUSHRANGER IN THE DANDENONGS.

The town of Melbourne was in a ferment. Law-abiding citizens had read with horror about the bush-rangers of Botany Bay and Port Arthur, but that such things should occur in Victoria was almost incred-ible (writes George H. Johnston in the Melbourne ''Argus'). 'Yan-kee Jack' had taken to the roads

near Dandenbng. Anxious travellers hustled their coaches helter-skelter through the rough bush tracks, with armed guards alongside, and a brace of loaded pistols in the saddle hol-sters. The hectic period of 'Yankee Jack's' bushranging career began, late in April of 1842. He swooped down on a farm on the Yarra near Ivanhoe, and galloped away with money, jewellery, and two thorough-bred saddle horses. Then he raided a station on the Lower Plenty River to obtain food and ammunition. A week later he was the chief of a band of four. The others were Wil-liams and Martin Fogarty, both emi-grants; and Charles Ellis, one of the notorious 'peep-o'-day' boys im-ported from the south of Ireland. Williams, was a very bad character, although a giant, and courageous as a lion. Fogarty was but a young-ster: The leader's name was not really 'Yankee Jack' but Daniel Jepps. He was a tall, educated sailor, late of Sydney. In his younger days he had taken a degree at Cambridge, and he had been chief officer of an East Indiaman. These bushrangers did not ill-treat their victims. Invariably they treat-ed women with the greatest re-spect. They began their career as a band of four by robbing several large stations in the Dandenong district. They held up and robbed two private coaches travelling on the Western-port-road. On May 1, moving to the Lower Plenty River district, they proceeded methodically to rob 10 stations before tea — surely an Aus-tralian record? Camping for the night in an adjacent paddock, they made an early start the next morn-ing, and by 8 o'clock they had robbed four more farms. Word had been carried to Mel-bourne, and on the morning of May 2 a party of special policemen and others had been organised and hurried to the Plenty district, where they followed a trail of ransacked houses until they arrived in sight of a farm belonging to Campbell Hunter. The outlaws had just turned out the station owner and his guests, and were about to sit down to a very appetising meal of roast duck. As they took up their knives Fogarty chanced to look through the win-dow, and, with a cry of warning jumped from his chair. Across the paddocks, outlined against a rising cloud of yellow dust, came the police posse at full gallop. Seizing their firearms, the bushrangers lost no time in running to a small storehouse adjacent to the homestead. While Fogarty wrenched at the stub-born door the others loaded their guns and fired at the police. The door swung open abruptly, Fogarty, Ellis and 'Yankee Jack' scrambled through into safety, but Williams was headed off by one of the policemen, Gourlay, and chased around the store. On the far side Williams stopped suddenly, and, swinging round, emptied his gun at Gourlay 's head. The shot missed, and Gourlay, drawing his pistol, closed with the huge bushranger, pulling the trigger as he did so. The weapon misfired, and, in despera-tion, Gourlay brought the butt down on Williams' head. The tre-mendous blow felled him, but even as he lay on the ground he drew his other pistol, rolled over and fired at Gourlay. The policeman was again lucky. The bullet hit a powder flask in his pocket. Williams took advantage of the surprise, however, and jumped at Gourlay, attempting to beat in his skull with his pistol-butt. An-other of the special police — Snod-grass by name — rushed up and fired two shots, scoring two hits — one in the bushranger's head, the other in Gourlay (fortunately,

only a flesh wound). Williams dropped, and was thought to be dead. A few minutes later he staggered to his feet and again at-tacked the two policemen. Snod grass felled him with the butt of his carbine, and he was shot dead by another policeman. Meanwhile the siege of the store house was progressing most un-favourably for the police. One man was carried from the battlefield. Snodgrass had twice been grazed by bullets. and the charmed Gourlay

later received three more wounds. The hut was well fortified, and, with loopholes cut in the slabs, the bush-rangers were able to command the approaches in all directions. Throughout the morning fighting continued. The attackers then with-drew to a more discreet distance. Reinforcements arrived later in the day, led by a trooper and con-stable, who had gone out from town by the Sydney-road to Beveridge's Inn, in order to intercept the bush-rangers, if they should make towards the Goulburn. The constable imme-diately took command and called a council of war. Just before noon Fogarty voluntarily surrendered. The others refused to surrender on any terms, being perfectly aware, they said, that their lives were for-feit. The battle continued, wreaths of blue smoke coiling upward into the bluer sky, the acrid smell of powder mingling with the scent of the eucalyptus. The fighting was in-terrupted now and then by parleys. Eventually the two men agreed to give themselves up if the gentlemen present 'would pledge themselves to intercede on their behalf with the judge.' This was refused, and the roar of gunfire continued until the bushrangers threw out another paper, the purport of which was that they had been led astray by Williams. As this asked for no pledge whatsoever, and seemed rather to be a stipulation that they should not be shot at if they came out, the paper was immediately signed by the police. The two weary bushrangers then gave up their arms and surrendered. In their possession were found guns, pistols, and ammunition, and about £30 in money. Both prisoners begged to be shot on the spot. They were securely trussed up however, mounted on their horses, and brought to Melbourne. As they ap-proached the city they were fol-lowed by an ever-increasing crowd. The three men were taken to the Melbourne Gaol to await their trial, and Gourlay became the hero of all Melbourne, toasted and feted wherever he went. The trial, took place on May 11, 1842. The jury returned a verdict of guilty, and the three men were sentenced to death. They were the first white men to be hanged at the Melbourne Gaol, being executed on June 27 before a crowd of 2000 men and women. Ellis and Fogarty broke down at the sight of the gallows, but 'Yankee Jack'' died without flinching.

Source: 1932 '"YANKEE JACK."', Kalgoorlie Miner (WA : 1895 - 1954), 11 April, p. 3. , viewed 30 Jul 2021, http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article94971387

Also see: 

1932 'A Bushranger in the Dandenongs', The Argus (Melbourne, Vic. : 1848 - 1957), 26 March, p. 7. , viewed 30 Jul 2021, http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article4443563

1922 'WHEN GOURLAY DIED GAME', Smith's Weekly (Sydney, NSW : 1919 - 1950), 7 January, p. 17. , viewed 30 Jul 2021, http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article234275358

John Kent

John is a descendant of the three Kent brothers who came from England in the early 1800's and set up as orchardists in East Doncaster.

When he left school, he worked on orchards owned by the Petty and Whitten families. He served with the A.I.F, in New Guinea in the second World War and on discharge, teamed up with his brother Peter as orchardists in Williamson’s Road. He played football with Doncaster Football Club where he is a life member and later coached the junior teams. He encouraged his sons and daughters in scouts and guides respectively and served as a Scout Master for ten years. He has been active in the Doncaster RSL, Holy Trinity Anglican Church, Austin Hospital church services and Scripture Union youth camps over many years.

John and his wife Norma have six children and thirteen grandchildren.

Source: 1999 06 DTHS Newsletter

From Our Archives

 In the early years of this century, attempts were made to obtain a permanent regular passenger service from Doncaster to Melbourne. In our archives, we have a series of letters between various bus companies and the Doncaster Progress Association to this end.

Charabanc: Sonnenberg's bus service from Box Hill to Doncaster. The steps at the front led to aisle and the seats all faced the front. The charabanc carried twenty passengers. The bus service ran in the 1920's

The arrangement was that a bus would travel from Doncaster East Post Office to Zander Corner thence via Doncaster Road, High Street Kew, Barker's Road, Victoria Street, Bourke Street, Swanston Street to St. Paul's Cathedral. The journey would take about one hour. The length of the route was estimated at 20 miles per trip and there were to be two trips daily. The charge for a viable service needed to be 2/- from Doncaster and 2/6 from Doncaster East for the service to cover costs.
A bus service by the British Motor Service under the auspices of the Doncaster Progress Association commenced on November 6th 1912.
Problems arose over this service, as a guarantee for 1/- a mile was not able to be met and the service was discontinued a few months later. Unfortunately at the time, the population was such that costs of running the bus service were greater than the clientele and over the next 10 years the bus service was at best sporadic. It was not until the roads were better maintained, the vehicles more reliable and the passenger load larger that a permanent bus service became possible.

Source: 1998 03 DTHS Newsletter

Our Helpmates in History

 Part 2 - Warrandyte

In 1839, James Anderson made a selection of land in the district now known as Warrandyte. Anderson's Creek was the western boundary of Anderson's land. A survey was made of the are in 1841 and the area was used for grazing until 1851, when a momentous event occurred. Gold was discovered by Louis Michel in Anderson's Creek. By September of that year, miners descended on Warrandyte with pick and shovel to try their luck in finding gold.

The following is a basic time line of events in Warrandyte's history.

• 1856 Steam powered crusher opened.
• 1856 First school opened.
• 1861 First bridge over the Yarra River at Warrandyte.
• 1866 Warrandyte cemetery opened.
• 1875 Present school No. 12 begun.
• 1896 Grand Hotel opened.
• 1908 Anderson's Creek school name change to Warrandyte.
• 1934 Floods over the top of the bridge.
• 1939 "Black Friday" fires-destroyed most of Warrandyte.
• 1975 Centenary of school an impetus for the Historical Society to be formed.

The Centenary of the Warrandyte was the catalyst for the inauguration of the Warrandyte Historical Society. A wonderful display of old photos and artifacts was gathered together for this event and many people who attended commented that much of Warrandyte's history was being forgotten. Community interest was enough for two Public Meetings to be held regarding setting up of an historical society. On 20th of May 1976, the first meeting of the Warrandyte Historical Society was held.

A small mining museum was formed in a building in Yarra Street, which became the headquarters of the group for a few years until they moved into the Old Warrandyte Post Office, which they now open to the public regularly.   This lovely old building in Yarra Street has suffered many setbacks in its life of over 100 years. It has survived flood, fire, neglect and was under notice of demolition in 1979. Due to the perseverance of many individuals and the dedication of the Lions Club of Warrandyte, the building has now been restored and is one of the show pieces of Warrandyte.

The first Post Office in Warrandyte was in a store beginning in 1857 and the mail contract was a most important link with the outside world for the district. The present Post Office building dates in part from 1875 when Alexander Speers ran a store on the site. It may  have been on a miner's right or miner's lease and throughout its life, the Post Office ran in conjunction with other businesses.

The first Post Master seems to have been Henry Squires appointed in 1889. Soon after Squires became Post Master the serious flood of 1891 prevented the mail coach from getting through from Warburton. During the 1934 flood, the Yarra River rose and the floodwaters came 9 inches over the flood level and surrounded the entire building. The Post Office also withstood several major bush fires. The 1939 fire which roared through Warrandyte threatened the old building. The church next door caught fire and flames and burning embers blew toward the Post Office. The building was saved by a bucket brigade of people carrying buckets filled by women who had taken refuge from the fire in the river. The fires of 1962 again endangered the Post Office. For safety, valuables were removed from the building and stored until the danger was over. .

Many characters are associated with the Post Office, the most famous of which was Bill McCulloch who was the last mounted postman in Victoria. Covering a daily round of 35 kilometres. Bill and his two horses delivered mail in the district for 13 years until his retirement in 1963.

Mounted Postman.  Bill McCulloch of Warrandyte was the last mounted postman in Victoria.  He delivered mail riding along the steep unmade roads of Warrandyte till the 1960's.

The Post Office stands in Yarra Street in a picturesque setting. Visitors walking on the river tracks under the shady willows, can stroll up the rear path to the Post Office. There the Warrandyte Historical Society has an interesting display of artifacts and photos depicting the history of Warrandyte from its early goldmining days. Books and posters on historical topics are available for purchase.

Source: 1998 03 DTHS Newsletter

On the Street where you live

 On the Street where you live

Have you ever wondered about the origin of the name of your street? Many streets in Manningham have been named after pioneer families in our district. Here are a few streets well known to us.

Clay Street

John and Agnys Clay came to Australia from Devonshire in 1851. First deciding on Adelaide to settle. John heard about the gold rush in Victoria and came on intending to try his luck in Ballarat, but Agnys developed typhoid fever when they arrived in Melbourne. Settling in Doncaster, south of Doncaster Road, John and Agnes (she had changed the spelling of her name) grew vegetables on the land he and his sons had cleared. The family of eight children grew up and married into local families. John and Agnes' son Richard and his wife Mary Ann lived on the family orchard in East Doncaster. The Clay orchard was a show place in the district and was selected for research by the Department of Agriculture. It also won the "Leader" prize for the best orchard in 1881. The Clays were very outgoing and social, playing a large part in the activities of the district. Richard's wife Mary Ann, often acted as midwife for women in childbirth. Also, being an hospitable housewife and keen cook, took enthusiastically to catering for her own children's wedding preparations and church celebrations.

Petty's Lane

The Petty family came to Doncaster in the 1850's. Thomas arrived first in Victoria from Yorkshire to look for land and prepare a home for his family. His wife Jane with her children arrived in 1858 to share the new home Thomas had built for them on his land near the Koonung Creek south of Doncaster Road. After Thomas' death, Jane ran the orchard, helped by her sons. One of these, Tom, who had come to Australia with his mother in the 1850's, married Eliza, a daughter of the Clay family.

Thomas Petty's House 1856. Petty's flemish bond house on Doncaster Road on the site of Harcourt Street

Tom Petty became one of Doncaster's most prominent orchardists, owning and establishing 30 orchards. One of his most important projects was the 560 acres of land at Park Orchards which was planted with fruit trees by Tom Petty. He also set up the orchard at Templestowe, still known as "Petty’s Orchard" which is now preserved and runs as an experimental antique varieties apple orchard, by Parks Victoria.

Tom Petty was typical of the solid pioneering families of Doncaster, like many taking an active part in community activities for the benefit of the people of the district.

Dehnert Street

Reinhold Dehnert came from Saxony in Germany and settled in Doncaster, marrying Christina Aumann. Like many of his fellow German migrants, Reinhold was a very hard-working man determined to succeed in his chosen field - orcharding. He became famous for his table grapes grown on vines in Doncaster and also cultivated pears for which he was known according to the "Argus" as the Pear King."

The Dehnert House.  Built by Reinhold Dehnert in George Street in 1897.

Tully Drive

The Tully family originated in Ireland and Thomas Tully emigrated to Australia in 1852 and by 1857, Tom and his wife Jane were living in Doncaster. In 1860, Thomas purchased 20 acres of land at the comer of Doncaster and Williamson’s Roads. Wood cutting on his property brought the family an income and a few cherry trees assisted in keeping them. For a while the family lived at Yering and when Thomas, the father died, Jane came back to live in Doncaster with her young children to be near her parents. One of Jane’s sons John, born in 1864, spent all his life in Doncaster and in his youth worked for several orchardists in the district learning his trade. Later, John bought his own orchard and gradually overcame the difficulties of a fire and the loss of his horse in his first year.

John and his wife Rosina were prominent members of the Church of Christ and over the years took part in many activities for the betterment of the community. John Tully was a shire Councilor and three times Shire President and in 1914 went to Britain to look into the handling of Victorian fruit shipments.

Knees Road

In the 1860's, loneliness was the lot of the few settlers who lived in the sparsely settled area known as Deep Creek. In this spot William Knee and his wife lived in a bark hut. William cut timber to supply the piles for the new St. Kilda pier. He would cart these piles down to the bay in his wagon taking his children with him in the cart. George Knee, William’s son and his wife Alice also lived in the area, and in later years used to leave home at midnight to take the fruit to market.  It is hard to imagine the trip from East Doncaster to the city in the pitch dark over rough roads with only the wagon lanterns to light the way.  We can only admire the determination and resilience of these pioneers who kept going in the face of the many kinds of hardships they had to endure. The vagaries of weather, fire, flood and personal tragedies were the lot of these hardy people - The Doncaster pioneers.

Pickering Place

The Pickerings, Eliza and Joseph and their six children came to Doncaster from England in 1849. Joseph, son of a well to do farmer, was comfortably off and had introductory letters to Governor la Trobe. Settling in Doncaster, the family gradually came to enjoy the bush, grey green and silent - surroundings so different from their English homeland.

Shortly after their arrival, the terrible bushfires of 1851 swept through Victoria. The Pickerings lost everything they had, but their lives were spared. One of the little girls, Susan, had her face so badly burnt that she remained at her home for the rest of her life, so conscious was she of her scarred appearance.

The family moved to a large block in East Doncaster in 1853 and the Pickerings entertained their friends and Joseph, who was a lay preacher conducted services in their home. As an educated man, Joseph Pickering was asked to became Doncaster's Post Master, the first in the area. This work was suited to Joseph’s abilities more than that of a farmer and when later he was appointed Registrar of Births and Deaths, he had found his niche in life. The Pickerings later bought land with a small shop in Main Street and this expanded into a General Store and Post Office.

The Pickerings were involved in all community activities in Doncaster. One of their daughters Kate, married Max Schramm, so the family had connections with the Lutheran Church as well as the Holy Trinity Church of England, which Joseph Pickering played a major part in building in 1868.

Source: 1998 03 DTHS Newsletter

Irvine Green

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Vale Irvine Heber Green

On Monday August 4th, our Past President and friend, Irvine Green died.  Irvine was the spirit and moving force of our Historical Society for thirty years. His talents were many and varied, ranging from research skills to concreting, all of which he did with enthusiasm and flair.  It is only now that he is gone, that we fully realize the extent of our loss and are aware of the myriad of tasks which he performed so quietly.  As was Irvine's family's wish, his funeral was held at his beloved Schramm's Cottage on Friday August 8th. The service was attended by many, including family, Manningham Council Representatives, Historical Society members, Rotary Club of Doncaster members and individuals who knew and loved Irvine.  We dedicate this newsletter to Irvine's memory this the first in nearly thirty years not prepared by Irvine himself.  We include tributes from many members of his family, officials from the groups he belonged to and friends.   Vale Irvine - heartfelt thanks from us ail for a job well done.

Judith Leaney, President-Doncaster and Teinplestowe Historical Society

Quotes from speeches.

The Mayor CA Bold Beynon: Council 5/8/97:  For the benefit of Councillors and members of the gallery, one of our prominent citizens passed away yesterday, Mr. Irvine Green  In 1967 he set up the Historical Society, he was the prime mover in having the Schramm's Cottage saved from being demolished. He was responsible for the historical photographs of Doncaster which are located in the Municipal Offices.  He gave countless talks to schools and groups within the municipality.  He was awarded the key to the City of Doncaster- Temples towe.  He will be sadly missed by all the residents of the City and if I could ask for you all to observe one minutes silence for Mr, Irvine Green.

Lawrance Reilly: at meeting of Historical Society 6th August 1997. Some individuals by their dedication will always be remembered and more important may leave behind an indelible mark of standard for others for others to follow. Irvine Green was such a man.  The Historical Society is much the richer for the time and effort of Irvine Green since its inception and we are now diminished by his passing.  Schramm's Cottage stands as a memorial to his life and this Society the occupant of the building is the off spring of his dedication to and union with history.  Our Irvine Green was a powerful man who lived 80 years of useful achievement.  That the minutes of this meeting record our grateful appreciation for the life of our founder Irvine Green and his untiring support. We regret his vacant chair at our meetings but for ever appreciate the legacy he has left  us.

Australian Quilters Association:  A member of A.Q.A. since 1989 Irvine’s contribution to the association was immeasurable. In his unassuming manner he was always there to share his technical and photographic skill, the latter in abundance.  A man of many talents and interests Irvine will be greatly missed.

David Green 8th August 1997:  "About my Father”.  Until recently he just never seemed to grow older. He has been such a constant "home base" for all of us that it was easy to assume he would be here for ever.  My father was always willing to share himself with others. There seemed to be no end to the pains he would take on other people’s behalf....  Many people would not appreciate how good an artist  Dad was----at the National Gallery a treasured exhibit of lino cut art by prominent Australian artist - Irvine Green.

Tony Green - 8th August 1997:  Dad had a long full life.  I remember him building the wooden vaulting horse for our youth club, showing us the sputnik satellite, buying too much plaster of paris for my school project, yelling at me at age 6 for bringing home an old TV tube and breaking it ... . working with him building the roof of the dogs kennel. I watched in horror as he tore up many photo prints because they were not perfect. I took some pictures of him in the war to school.... I told them he was holding a machine gun but it was only a camera. He was a gentle man.  In the end his selfless work was honoured with the Order of Australia Medal. People have noticed him.

Grand daughter, Laurel - 8th August 1997:  I think the thing I loved most about Poppa was his jokes . ... he had a funny sarcastic wit that made you burst out laughing - when he made his straight face comments. He was a wonderful man.  I always admired him with all his hidden talents .... but most of all I always loved him.

Grandson - Russell 8th August 1997:  Papa was always a loving caring man----when he would nod off during one of our conversations, when he woke up he knew exactly what you had just said. I always wondered about that........seeing him with a pony tail, not a toupee but a real pony tail. Papa will always be with us, in our stories our memories and our hearts.

John C. Turner 8th August 1997. Rotary Club of Doncaster Irvine Green fellow Rotarian. A man when invited to join Rotary, embraced die ideals of Rotary "service above self’. He didn’t have to learn the Four way test.... His code was Irvine Green.  Whenever a dream of his or others was mooted .... he would, with a twinkle in his eye and a deep quiet chuckle say - why not? No matter what was asked of him he went the extra mile .... he was a "quiet achiever". A great man, a great friend an example to all.

Marilyn - Daughter 8th August 1997: To us dad was a very kind and loving father .... always ready to listen.... lie was there through good times and hard times. He had a way of making everyone feel special. He had several hobbies which he loved dearly.  1st Photography .... Fie begun his career in this field taking photos for Australian intelligence during World War 2.  2nd He loved History.  He was a true gentleman and a fantastic person right to the end. His grandchildren.... All sincerely loved him.

Loretta Childs: I would like to tell you of the person I knew as a father figure and friend of great importance in my life and that of his other five other step-children, their spouses and children. He had a great influence on a huge part of our lives. The influence I speak of has been something so special and has touched all of us; observing this man of such tenderness and -wealth of mind and spirit. This is also something he brought into our mother’s life. We have watched with wonderment how Paddy and Irvine grew together over the years  Irvine was a man of immense humour and versatility, ’he drier the humour, the more he laughed.  Irvine’s five year old grandson said to me after finding out he had died, "You know Mummy, I think all the hard things go down to hell and all the soft things go down to heaven, so I think Poppa must have gone up to heaven."  What more can we say about a man we all loved and respected so much.

Eric Collyer 8th August 1997:  Doncaster Templestowe Historical Society.  His passing marks the end of an era in the life of our society - a unique association spanning 30 years ....  He was in every sense of the word a leader, serving at various times and for extended periods as secretary, president, newsletter editor and compiler, photographer, author and printer----Irvine had an unparalleled depth and breadth of knowledge of the history of this district.- .the authority on local history.  When I thought about Irvine these characteristics came to mind - reserved unassuming in nature, quiet achiever, one who showed genuine humility, persistent worker, totally committed, great encourager, good organiser and above all loyal and sincere in relationship with others.  We remember Irvine for the monumental legacy he has left us .... his documented history and extensive collection of photographs are ours to treasure and safeguard and may they long serve to advance the cause of history within this municipality.

Source: 1997 12 DTHS Newsletter

Local Government

The City of Bulleen by any other name

The announcement of the new name for the City of Doncaster and Templestowe has caused some disappointment. Most people do not know that name Bulleen has great significance for our city. Our area was the Shire of Bulleen when the municipality was first formed in 1875.  

Before that, in 1841, when the area was surveyed, it was named the Parish of Bulleen.  Bulleen is the aboriginal name for the White Cockatoo that still lived in the area. 

The problem with the name started when the Doncaster riding severed rom the Shire of Bulleen in 1890 forming a separate shire. The remainder of the old Shire then only covered part of Bulleen so it was renamed the Shire of Templestowe. 

Wonga Park

Wonga Park State School

The depression of the early 1890s brought severe unemployment and destitution to many people in Melbourne. The government felt that these urban dwellers may have a better chance if they were settled on the land. 

In Wonga Park, a square mile next to the original Wonga Station was marked out, and this area was designated as a selection for a village settlement.  It had originally been part of the Warrandyte Parish survey of 1841. This scheme was rushed by so many keen to participate, that names had to be drawn out of a hat and finally eighteen people took up selection in the new settlement. 

By the 1892, these men and their families had installed themselves on the land and begun a life of farming and orcharding - so very different from their previous experiences. 

Mr. G. Launder, a practicing architect and builder of Melbourne, owned fifty-one acres of land in the area in 1894.  Mr. Launder was a staunch advocate of the Eight Hours Movement.  This had begun in 1856, initiated by stonemasons who had passed a resolution to work eight hours a day, six days a week. Consequently, the Eight Hour League was formed. 

Due to the influence of Mr. Launder, the housing settlement in East Warrandyte became known as Pioneer Village Settlement or the Croydon Eight Hour Settlement. 

During the early years, the area was allied to Croydon as this was the nearest railway station.  As residents settled into the selection, the need for a school became evident.  Again Mr. Launder came to the fore in urging for the opening of a school in the area.  The nearest school was Brushy Creek over four miles distant. 

There were twenty-eight children over five years old whose parents were permanent settlers.  A petition to the Education Department bore fruit the next year, 1895, when a site in Dudley Street was surveyed for the purpose of building a school.  An inspector's report notes that a portion of the land, two acres in size, was excised from Wilson's allotment.  The original owner was Mr. G. Pickup, one of the first settlers in the area. 

On the 31st, July 1895, the site was ratified in the Government Gazette and plans were made to clear the area, the cost being six pounds. The clearing costs had not been allowed for in the tender, and the residents could not afford to do it themselves.  It is unclear whether or not this was done, but after some disagreement on the siting of the building on the allotment, a portable building from S.S. No. 3113 Braybrook Junction was removed and placed on the site.  This school was known as Warrandyte East State School No. 3241. 

On the 6th. November 1895, with Ida Body as H.T. (Head Teacher), the school opened with an average attendance of sixteen.  The original school was closely surrounded by gum trees and the verandah floor had strips of bark from stringy bark gums laid along its length.  

Soon there was a movement to change the name of the school and the district inspector, Mr. Gamble, announced in 1898 that the name chosen was 'Wonga Park'. 

The old school was burned down in 1911 and a new one built in 1912. This was a wooden structure to accommodate forty-five pupils and cost 370 pounds.  The opening was a gala occasion for the district.  A children's sports day was organised in honour of the event and a cantata or short musical drama was held in the evening. 

An interesting sidelight on the problems encountered by the school committee is shown in an early report by the school caretaker in describing his work around the school: "I have attended to the out-offices and deposited it around my fruit trees" 

Gradually, the population of the district increased and a second classroom was added in 1951.  Since then other additions have been made and in 1962 the attendance was thirty-nine, with a staff of Head teacher and an assistant. Several attempts have been made to amalgamate the school with others, once with Yarra Road school on a site near the present Wonga Park cellars, and again in the early 1980s when a proposal to recite the building was discussed and abandoned. 

Wonga Park has survived the recent round of school closures and in 1995 the attendance of 171 students with nine permanent staff and some casual staff for special subjects. 

At present the school residence needs restoration and has put forward a proposal before the Heritage Restoration Committee for funding. 

The City of Manningham is proud to add the old school building to its interesting heritage. 

Source: Judith Leaney writing in 1995 09 DTHS Newsletter

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Wonga Park - Eight Hours Pioneer Settlement

Medieval guilds, the ancient forerunners of Trades Unions were the first associations to champion the cause of the artisan or tradesman. Australia was a very early entrant to the trade union movement, which grew from the world wide charter of workingmens1 rights to better working conditions and wages.

In the aftermath of the Gold Rush in Victoria, in the early 1850's, as people left their homes and businesses to chase after gold, a great deal of the stability which had gradually built up since the founding of Melbourne in 1835, was lost There was a general decline in wages and conditions of work for tradespeople in this period. The Eureka Stockade in 1854, emphasising the antipathy of miners to the established government, laid the foundations of movements to set working conditions, rales of pay and rights in general of the working classes.

This was a world trend and the Eight Hours system was part of a feeling for freedom and autonomy for the working man. James Stephens, a mason, founded the Eight Hours system in Victoria in 1856. Stonemasons as tradesmen took the initiative in setting up this movement which had the motto: 8 hours labour; 8 hours recreation; 8 hours rest and, as the insignia of the movement a banner of blue with a red border and white lettering, was first unfurled on April 21st 1856.

Eight Hour Day Banner Replica - Collections Victoria 

Builders had to be working outdoors in all weathers and the stonemasons felt that a 10 hour working day was too long for men in the blazing heat of summer. It was also felt that workmen need time for recreation and rest and from these axioms came the foundation of the charter of the Australian working man's rights.

The first trades involved were masons, bricklayers, plasterers, carpenters and joiners, and painters. Gradually new unions were established under the influence of the Eight Hours movement.

The Eight Hours Pioneers Association members were a powerful force in the late nineteenth century espousing the cause of the working man. This group was active in urging the Government of the day to open up tracts of land and make them available to the unemployed in the depression years of the 1890’s. These years were a period of severe unemployment and to help alleviate the problem a number of village settlements were established in Victoria. These were opportunities for working men to purchase land cheaply, set up settlements out of the city and by their own efforts build a future for themselves and their families. Efforts were made to introduce new products. Various herbs, unusual vegetables, even mulberry trees to grow silk were tried with varying degrees of success.

Google Map of Wonga Park 

One of the most successful of these settlements was at Wonga Park. A mile square section of land, part of a forest reserve, proclaimed after the Warrandyte Parish survey of 1841, was set aside for subdivision. Bounded by Hartley, Davis, Reserve, Toppings Rds and Launder Avenue, this area, although now divided into smaller blocks can still be clearly distinguished by the road boundaries. In 1893, the 640 acres were subdivided into farm allotments at a cost of one shilling per acre for 20 years. There was such a rush to secure land, that a ballot was held and 18 lucky applicants received grants of land. Suitable candidates for land grants were carefully selected using several criteria. They had to be over 18 years, be married and own no other land. Several of the new settlers were members of the Eight Hours Pioneer Memorial Association. Prominent among these, was Mr George Launder secretary of the Association, who also acted as secretary of the Settlement Committee. The official name was "The Croydon Eight Hour Pioneer Village Settlement."

8 hour day settlement

Most of these village settlements were on the poorest of land, generally unwanted by other farmers and graziers. The settlement at Wonga Park was no exception. The soil was naturally poor, large trees scanty, and most of the blocks were full of gullies and inaccessible ridges.

To make land clearing even more difficult, there was a great deal of scrubby undergrowth. The settlers struggled to prepare roads into their holdings before winter rains rendered them impassable.

These tasks were made more arduous by the fact that most of the new settlers were former city dwellers with little experience of farming or orcharding. The problems encountered by these determined pioneers had a positive side however. A friendly atmosphere of self help and assistance engendered a strong sense of community which is evident in Wonga Park even today.

The government, having released this land for development was not over generous in providing further financial assistance to build roads. The committee, headed by G Launder made regular submissions to the Government for help, but the result was generally poor, and well into the twentieth century, connecting roads within the settlement were just rough tracks.

After the opening up of the land, these settlers began bringing in material for houses. Many lived in tents or rough dwellings before they could commence their houses. This work had to be done at the same time as land clearing and the planting of crops and orchard trees.

At the beginning of the twentieth century, Wonga Park was generally recognised as the name for the settlement, the grazing properties which had developed along the river, and the other allotments which were being sold in the district. By 1910, Wonga Park was first accepted as a district by the Municipal Directory of Melbourne.

Research by Christine Johnson and Carlotta Kellaway of Context P/L who conducted the Heritage Study of the Wonga Park area has indicated several features evocative of the original Eight Hours Settlement.

To accommodate the growing population of children, the first Wonga Park school was built in 1895, and named Warrandyte East SS no 3241. In 1898 as the name adopted by the district became the commonly used one, the name of the school too was changed to Wonga Park. The old school building was burned down in 1911 so the present school building was erected in 1912. This was built to the most popular school plan at that time. It was made of timber with a gabled roof, a brick chimney and fireplace.

Although some alterations have been made to the original building, it has been deemed significant, due to its associations with the Eight Hour Movement and as a community building from the early days of Wonga Park.

Within the road pattern of the Village Settlement scheme, there are a number of other features which remain from the 1890’s settlement.

The Heritage Study has identified several venerable trees as being of botanical importance and worthy of preservation. Tin* Red Box tree at 4 Dudley Rd has been estimated to be 300 years old and has fortunately survived several road realignments and is the largest Red Box in Wonga Park.

A large Ironbark also in Dudley Rd is of a similar age to the Red Box and is the only one of its kind in the Wonga Park district. 

Kellybrook Winery, on the site of the 1890's property thought to have belonged to William Martin, an Eight Hours pioneer, has an enormous spreading oak tree, obviously planted in the early days of the settlement.  lt is so huge that the heavy branches are supported by stout poles to prevent them sagging to the ground.

The Oaks

"The Oaks" a property including a house, tea rooms, and office has early associations with the Eight Hours Settlement. The first owner was a monumental mason and was lessee in 1893. This property is interesting, having been a tearoom for visitors who bought gum tips while on day trips from the inner suburbs.

Hartleys Cottage

Hartleys Cottage, built about 1920, was a later house built by Joseph, son of John Hartley, a bricklayer who was an original Eight Hours Settlement pioneer. This is a pretty double fronted timber framed cottage with decorative verandah in an attractive garden setting, in Hartley Rd, one of the original boundary roads of the Settlement.

Forest Gate Guest House

A touch of the romantic theater life lingers on in the house now known as "White Lodge". Once called "Forest Gate", this lovely old home, now much altered, belonged to Mrs Webb, a niece of George Launder, the prominent Eight Hours pioneer. She was part of the Melbourne theatre scene and many theatre people stayed in her guest house in Wonga Park. The large oak trees still on the property were grown from acorns which George Launder brought out from England.

It is very gratifying to have had identified such a significant feature as the Eight Hours Settlement in our city. This has achieved the stature of being declared of State Historical Significance as one of the remaining settlements still in an intact condition, which was associated with the important Eight Hours movement. It also speaks volumes for the tenacity and resourcefulness of our pioneers who took up the challenge of making a living from such difficult and inhospitable terrain.

Source: 1997 09 DTHS Newsletter

 

123 Andersons Creek Road

123 Andersons Creek Road

In 1973, ONEMDA, a company providing services to disable people, purchased the property, demolished the farmhouse and built a purpose-built complex to meet the needs of disabled children and young adults.

Set on a leafy and spacious site in Doncaster East, our ‘head office campus’ provides an array of facilities and services. ONEMDA Website

Source and more history of ONEMDA: ONEMDA Annual Report 2018-2019

Andersons Park

 Andersons Park

Anderson's Park situated in SW corner of Reynolds Road and Andersons Creek Road occupies part of a site that was originally East Doncaster Primary School or the Deep Creek Primary School.

Originally 5 acres were allocated to the school.

The likely 5 acres of government allocated land (shaded) measuring approx 75m x 270m = 20250 sq.m. ~ 5 acres),  Google Maps Aerial View

The school site was ill chosen.  I the late 1880's, the school community was moved to the cnr of George St and Blackburn Rd. The buildings were taken away and it became a disused government site.

Probably only a small part of the 5 acre site was occupied by the school building, and the school grounds so the vegetation survived.

The reason that there is alleged to be remnant native vegetation is because it was government land even until the present time and therefore was never planted with orchards or cultivated.

According to the "Back to Doncaster East Souvenir" Publication (1973) in about 1909-1911, George McKinley contacted "the powers that be" and got a permissive occupancy for the Doncaster Ramblers Cricket Club.

The park is now larger than the original 5 acre site due to the addition of new land for ovals.

Source: Ken Smith, personal communication, July 2021

95 Fitzsimons Lane, Templestowe

95 Fitzsimons Lane, Templestowe - Sold

• Built 1920's
• Last remaining property owned by the renowned Fitzsimons family, after whom this prominent boulevard is named

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95 Fitzsimons Lane, Templestowe. Google Maps JUN2021

95 Fitzsimons Lane, Templestowe. House visible through trees. Google StreetView JUN2021

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95 Fitzsimons Lane, Templestowe - Sold

• Rare and remarkable on expansive land overlooking Westerfolds Park, this charming 1920's home amidst a beautiful bushland setting is undoubtedly Templestowe's most compelling real estate opportunity. 
• Never before offered for sale, this is 
• the last remaining property owned by the renowned Fitzsimons family, after whom this prominent boulevard is named. 
• Their farming history dates back to the late 19th century so relics and remnants still remain with several agricultural sheds and outbuildings surrounding the comfortable 2 bedroom home. 
• Now with the changing of the guards, it's time to reimagine your family's future here in this idyllic natural setting where country-style living is accompanied by the easy convenience of nearby bus services, World-class Westfield shopping, freeway access and an array of exceptional schooling options. Start planning your family estate and set your sights high; design a luxuriously large lifestyle home on over an acre of elevated land (STCA) where block-buster dimensions offer endless options for a resort-style pool and tennis court befitting this sensational location amidst abundant walking trails and bike tracks, sporting ovals, picnic spots, playgrounds, river parklands and quality schools (zoned for Templestowe Park Primary School). Today's comforts include large lounge, spacious dining room, study, central bathroom, neat fireside kitchen and ample off-street-parking.

Source: https://www.realestate.com.au/sold/property-house-vic-templestowe-136070826. 4JUL2021

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