Week of historical wealth

Upper Yarra Historical Society’s Ross Polkinghorne talks history with Paula Herlihy and Louise Fitinghoff from Mount Evelyn History Group. 108410_01. Pictures: KATH GANNAWAY

By KATH GANNAWAY

THE Upper Yarra Museum at Yarra Junction was ‘History Central’ on Sunday as more than 20 organisations involved in the Yarra Ranges Heritage Network put their own brand of history on display.
Hosted by the Upper Yarra Valley Historical Society, the Heritage Open Day was held as part of History Week 2013 and provided an opportunity for the wider community to discover the wealth of history around the Yarra Valley and beyond, and for those with a particular interest to tap into the wealth of knowledge gathered for the event.
The Upper Yarra Museum’s extensive collections and buildings, including the 1888 railway station along with the working blacksmith’s shop and the innovative new children’s playground provided a platform for the diverse range of visiting displays.
Among the groups attending were Friends of Coranderrk, local historical societies, Camp Eureka, Gulf Station and Kirth Kiln, mechanics institutes, Yarra Ranges Council, Eastern Regional Libraries, Yarra Junction CFA, and CWA groups – among many.
“Hosting the event at the Upper Yarra Museum is seen as a further step in raising the profile of heritage and history groups in the Upper Yarra and to establish the Upper Yarra Museum as an important element of the region’s tourist profile,” said UYVHS president Tom O’Meara.
History Month activities will continue at Upper Yarra Museum on Wednesday and Thursday of this week and next.