Australiana Society Victorian Chapter Launch

The Victorian Chapter of the Australiana Society was launched on Sunday 17 February 2019 at the Templestowe home of newly appointed Victorian Chair Robert Stevens. Over 55 people attended an enjoyable afternoon tea on a beautiful, sunny day in Melbourne, at which many old friendships were renewed and new ones made.

Tasmanian Chair Colin Thomas and Queensland Chair David Bedford were in attendance, as were many Australiana Society members, and representatives of the Furniture History Society, Brighton Antique Club, Silver Society, Needlework Tool Collector’s Society and Australiana Fund. This support, so important for the building of confidence, enthusiasm and endeavour.

After a brief welcoming address, which declared the formation of the Chapter, and acknowledged the wonderful support evident, followed by a pleasing afternoon tea, Robert gave a presentation on his collection of paintings and drawings by Convict Artists. In his address Robert also praised the magnificent ideals of the Australiana Society which embrace the Researching, Preserving and Collecting of Australia’s Heritage, and its world class periodical “Australiana” edited by John Wade. In addition, Robert gave details of the Chapter’s next function, a private viewing, in Werribee, of Committeeman Bill Cullen’s incredible collection of Australian furniture & general Australiana, and a tour of Werribee Park Mansion led by the eminent Terence Lane. Finally, attendees were invited to view Robert’s Convict Art Collection. Colin Thomas gave an expression of thanks.

Many stayed on to enjoy the discussions and camaraderie. Everybody agreed this was a very enjoyable day and a most successful Launch.

Plate 1. L to R, The venue – The residence of Robert Stevens; Members arrive with with afternoon tea “goodies”; Robert officially launching the Victorian Chapter.

Plate 2. L to R, Viewing of Robert's colonial paintings; Robert's talk on his collection.

Werribee Tour

On 13 March 2019, following the successful launch of the Victoria Chapter in February, over 50 people attended an equally successful Werribee tour. Included were a viewing of Bill Cullen’s wonderful collection, a visit to Charmaine Wakefield’s classic “Water Fall” home set in 4 acres of historical gardens, and a Terence Lane led tour of Werribee Park Mansion. Another magnificent day attended by a large, enthusiastic and knowledgeable group of Australiana Society members and friends.

Plate 3. Viewing of Bill Cullen's collection

Plate 4. L to R, Viewing of Bill Cullen's collection; Werribee Park Mansion tour led by Terence Lane.