Pioneer spirit

By Monique Ebrington
DARK clouds did not put a dampener on the Pioneer Skills Day hosted by the Upper Yarra Historical Society.
Visitors enjoyed demonstrations, at the Old Railway Station Museum at Yarra Junction, of what life was like during the days of pioneering.
Plenty of hands-on activities, fresh food and the chance to wander through the museum and grounds kept the steady stream of visitors busy.
Connie Grogan, from Hoddles Creek Red Cross, looked perfect for the occasion in period-piece dress and bonnet as she helped run the tables full of homemade jams, cakes, toffee and knitted gifts.
Young helpers were able to see up close how a blacksmith worked as Grant Morris manned the blacksmith’s fire and demonstrated methods for creating fire hooks.
Les Bailey cranked an antique rope-making device, showing how they used to make rope during the pioneering era. Mr Bailey handed out the rope to delighted young observers to take home for use as a skipping rope.
The president of the Upper Yarra Historical Society, Keith Johnson, said he was pleased by the day’s success as it was a way of educating younger generations in a fun atmosphere.
“It was quite a successful day, but, of course, we’ll make it bigger and better next year,” Mr Johnson said.
Lapidary stalls, butter-making demonstrations, old cars, a barbecue and woodwork activities also kept the curious visitors and budding pioneers entertained during the day.