THE BOROUGH OF RINGWOOD.
Proclaimed a Borough in 1924.
Area-5546 acres. Population-4500. Dwellings- 1100. Length of streets-56 miles. Average rainfall-25 inches. Altitude- 500 feet.
Valuations, 1945-Improved Capital Value, £ 1,180,000; Nett Annual Value, £59,000.
Rate, 1945-General rate of 2/8d. in the £ levied on Nett Annual Values.
Newspaper-“The Ringwood Mail,” published weekly on Thursdays.
Electoral Divisions-Federal: Deakin. State: L.C, Southern Province. L.A., Nunawading; Upper Yarra; Evelyn.
THE BOROUGH COUNCIL, 1945-46.
Mayor-Cr. H. E. Parker.
COUNCILLORS.
Crs. E. T. Purser; B. Hubbard; T. Williams; F. W. Caterer.
COUNCIL OFFICERS.
Town Clerk-A. F. B. Long, J.P.
Engineer-D. H. Oliver, C.E.
Health Officer-Dr. W. E. Hewitt.
The Council meets every four weeks.
The Borough of Ringwood is a suburban rural area 15 miles east of Melbourne and includes the settlements of Ringwood East and Heathmont. It is a very progressive area, ,nicely elevated and admirably suited for residential purposes. It covers a thriving horticultural district where there are many lemon groves and other orchards. Market gardening is extensively carried on and huge quantities of all kinds of cut flowers are provided for the Melbourne market.
The Borough is served by an excellent electric train service and is the junction of the tourist railways to Healesville and Warburton on the north and Fern Tree Gully on the south. The main road to these tourist areas also passes through the Borough.
The township is well equipped with electric light and power (also the surrounding district) and there is an ample water supply from the O’Shannassy water scheme. State and some private schools cater for education; a fine new Town Hall accommodates nearly 1000 persons and is very modernly equipped, and there are bowling and croquet lawns and ovals. A good swimming baths caters for residents and several recreation reserves serve visitors and picnic parties.
Industries within the Borough include a hosiery factory, a children’s clothing factory, a fibre-plaster works, joinery and furniture manufacturing works and two sawmills.
THE SHIRE OF BRAYBROOK.
Created a District in 1860 and proclaimed a Shire in 1871.
Area –52¾ sq. miles. Population—12,800. Dwellings–2950. Length of roads–286 miles. Average rainfall–28 inches. Altitude– 100 to 200 feet.
Valuations, 1945 —Improved Capital Valae, £5,593,420; Nett Annual Value, £279,671.
Rates, 1945-General rate of 2s. in the £ in the Western Riding and of 2/3 in £ in other Ridings; levied on Nett Annual Values.
Newspaper’–“The Advocate,” published at Sunshine weekly on Fridays.
Electoral Divisions-Federal: Corio; Mari bymong. State: L.C., Southern Province; Melbourne West Province. L.A., Bulla and Dalhousie; Footscray; Grant.
THE SHIRE COUNCIL, 1945-46.
President–J. R. Parsons, J.P.
COUNCILLORS.
Crs. E. C. Treloar, J.P.; R. K. McDonald, J.P.; H. R. Skinner; D. McF. Brown; F. Hayden; G. E. Dobson, J.P.; K. Kirby; R. A. Barrett; A. G. Pennell; T. R. Barclay, J.P.; G. Baker; G. E. Dobson, J.P.
SHIRE OFFICERS.
Secretary and Treasurer-E. Hargreaves, F.A.I.S., J.P.
Shire Engineer-H. Robinson, C.E., L.S.
Health Inspector-L. E. Thorpe.
Valuer-R. E. Barnett.
Health Officer-Dr. C. Byrne, M.B., B.Sc.
The Council meets on alternate Mondays. Shire Headquarters-Sunshine.
This Metropolitan Shire lies to the west of Melbourne on its eastern boundary and adjoins the Chy of Footscray. It is an area which is given to agricultural pursuits, but especially in recent years there has been great development in secondary industry within the Shire. Industries now functioning there include implement works, meat-preserving works, reinforced concrete works, freezing works, dynamite and explosive works, potteries, furniture factory, fireworks factory, ammunition and• cordite factories, flour mills and quarries and stone-crushing plants. Of particular note is the Sunshine Harvester Factory at Sunshine, 7¾ miles from Melbourne. This factory, which is the largest producing agricultural machinery in the Southern Hemisphere and the second largest in the British Empire, covers 40 acres and employs over 2300 artisans. The settlement of Sunshine itself has boomed owing to this indus try and now has a population of about 6000. It is the site of the Shire Hall, and factories are located in this area.
Maribyrnong is a favourite picnic resort on the Maribyrnong River, reached by electric train and tram. Here also a number of secondary industries are located. Braybrook is more of a pastoral area, although there are bluestone quarries and some works in the district. Other settlements within the Shire are devoted to dairying and hay growing pursuits, but owing to the excellent contour of the lands for factory building and its closeness to the Metropolis secondary industries are increasingly spreading through out the Shire area.
THE SHIRE OF BROADMEADOWS.
Created a District in 1857 and proclaimed a Shire in 1871.
Area-176 sq. miles. Population-7811. Dwellings- 1824. Length of roads-362 miles. Average rainfall-26 inches. Altitude- varies from 266 feet to 1268 feet at the top of the range.
Valuations, 1945-Improved Capital Value, £3,053,800; Nett Annual Value, £152,695.
Rate, 1945-General rate of 2/- in the £ in Broadmeadows Riding and of 1/9 in other Ridings; levied on Nett Annual Values.
Enlisiments from Shire-263.
Electoral Divisions-Federal: Corio. State: L.C., Southern Province; Doutta Galla Province. L.A., Bulla and Dalhousie; Essendon; Coburg.
THE SHIRE COUNCIL, 1945-46.
President-Cr. H. Kane.
COUNCILLORS.
Crs. E. E. Hughes, J.P.; N. R. Stafford; H. Cliff; J. A. Laffan; W. H. Henshall, J.P.; R. C. Hadfield, J.P.; C. Mutton, M.L.A., J.P.; R. Poole, J.P.; P. A. Wedding; W. G. Leech; A. Cameron, J.P.
SHIRE OFFICERS.
Secretary-A. T. C. Cook, J.P., F.I.M.A.
Engineer-F. J. Walters, C.E.
Health Officers-Dr. F. L. Edmunds, Dr. L. Loorhan.
The Council meets on the last Thursday in the month.
Shire Headquarters Broadmeadows East.
This Shire comprises general farming and grazing country which stretches in a narrow strip northward from the northern suburbs of Melbourne for about 30 miles. The southern part of the Shire adjoins the Metropolitan Cities of Coburg and Essendon, and the main Albury railway line passes through the Shire. The southern part of the Shire is becoming definitely residential, but in other parts grazing, dairying, poultry farming and hay and grain-growing are still carried on.
There are many settlements within the Shire area, none of them of any considerable size. The township of Broadmeadows is the centre of a dairying area and some stud breeding of horses is carried on; ii has a population of 390. Fawkner has a population of 950 and Glenroy, in the, southern part of the Shire, is definitely residential in character and has a population of 1028. It is noted for its fine golf links of 130 acres in extent. During the war a large military camp, which had accommodation for about 20,000 men, was located in the Shire.
THE SHIRE OF BULLA.
Proclaimed a District in 1862 and a Shire in 1866.
Area- 101½ sq. miles. Population-2900. Dwellings-442. Length of roads-99 miles. Average rainfall-24 inches. Altitude-700 feet at Sunbury Township and 1640 feet at highest part.
Valuations, 1945-Improved Capital Value, £840,300; Nett Annual Value, £42,015.
Rate, 1945-General rate of 1/9 in the £ levied on Nett Annual Values.
Enlistments from Shire-70 (incomplete).
Newspaper-“The Sunbury News,” published at Sunbury weekly on Saturday. Electoral Divisions-Federal: Corio. State: L.C., Southern Province. L.A., Bulla and Dalhousie.
THE SHIRE COUNCIL, 1945-46.
President-Gr. S. W. Walls.
COUNCILLORS.
Crs. W. H. Johnston, J.P.; T. A. Alston; A. W. Millar; M. P. McMahon, J.P.; M. Cahill, J.P.
SHIRE OFFICERS.
Secretary, Valuer and Collector-T. F. McCormack, F.I.M.A., J.P.
Consulting Engineer-K. N. Stevenson, B.C.E. (Melb.), C.E., L.S.
Acting Part-time Engineer-W. M. Pullar, B.C.E.
Treasurer-A. Gullick.
Health Officer-Dr. R. M. F. Cameron, M.R.C.S., L.R.C.P.
Health Inspector-V. P. Nind.
The Council meets on the second Tuesday in the month.
Shire Headquarters-Sunbury.
The Shire of Bulla is a semi-residential and otherwise farming and dairying area which lies about 25 miles north of the Metropolis. It has rail connection with Melbourne by the railway line to Castlemaine which passes through the Shire. There are a number of horse-breeding and cattle-breeding studs in the Shire area, and commodities produced apart from dairying products are wheat, oats, potatoes, lucerne and grapes.
The Shire headquarters of Sunbury is situated 24 miles north of Melbourne by rail and the township has water supply which comes from Mount Macedon, also electric light and power. There are three hotels and both State and private schools. It has a population of 850 and is picturesquely placed at an altitude of 700 feet Bulla is a dairying
township on the Maribyrnong River and it is known that there are considerable mineral deposits in this area.
THE SHIRE OF DONCASTER AND TEMPLESTOWE.
Doncaster proclaimed in 1890. Doncaster and Templestowe united in 1915.
Area-34 sq. miles. Population-3300. Dwellings-920. Length of roads-214 miles. Average rainfall-27 inches. Altitude-400 feet.
Valuations, 1945-Improved Capital Value, £1,137,660; Nett Annual Value, £56,883.
Rate, 1945–General rate of 2/3d. in the £ levied on Nett Annual Values.
Electoral Divisions – Federal: Deakin. State: L.C., Southern Province.- L.A., Evelyn.
THE SHIRE COUNCIL, 1945-46.
President–Cr. J. B. Horsfall.
COUNCILLORS.
Crs. J. J. Tully; G. T. Knee; R. G. Hillhouse; F. Nankivell; W. A. Smith, C. R. Hemsworth; J. V. Colman; A. E. Ireland.
SHIRE OFFICERS.
Shire Secretary-B. P. Davies.
Engineer-F. R. Lucas, C.E.
Health Officer-Dr. P. G. Commons, M.B., B.S.
The Council meets on the second Tuesday in the month.
Shire Headquarters-Doncaster.
This rural and semi-suburban Shire lies about 10 miles to the east of Melbourne and includes the area bounded on the south by the Cities of Camberwell, Box Hill and Nuna wading, on the east by the Borough of Ring wood and Shire of Lilydale, and on the north by the River Yarra, which forms the northern and western boundaries of the Shire. The district is mainly undulating country with extensive views, and there are some low, hilly ranges. The residents mainly carry on grazing, horticultural and pastoral pursuits, and in the district of Templestowe Lower especially, dairying is considerable. There are many orchards and production of fruit, especially soft fruits such as peaches and pears is heavy. There are no railway lines through the Shire, the northern areas relying on ‘bus services connecting with the Heidel berg line and the southern areas on services connecting with the rail at Box Hill or Mit cham. Public facilities in all townships in the Shire include electric light, and this ser vice is also available in the rural orchard areas around Doncaster and Templestowe. Water supply is also available over the whole area, the mains of the Metropolitan Board of Works extending over most of the Shire district.
The township of Doncaster has a population of 780 and is three mile from Box Hill. In normal times this town and others in the Shire have direct ‘bus services to the Metropolis and it is anticipated that these service’s will be resumed. It is the centre of a frmt growing area and there are many well-kep: orchards. There is a good golf links and everal cool ,lores for the fruit produced. At Doncaster East (population, 350) the largest fruit store (capacity 72,000 cases) is situated. Templestowe (population, 550) is the centre of a general farminq and fruit-growing dis trict on the Yarra River. River sports, fishing and shooting may be had. Warrandyte (population, 670) is a dairying area on the Yarra River which is very popular a a tourist resort. Public reserves and camping areas are provided near the river. In this district some quartz and alluvial mining is still carried on. At West Templestowe there are two brick kilns.
THE SHIRE OF ELTHAM.
Created a District in 1856 and proclaimed a Shire in 1871.
Area-190 sq. miles. Population–5,100. Dwellings- 1826. Length of roads-320 miles. Average rainfall-22 inches. Altitude -varies from 200 feet to 1800 feet.
Valuations, 1945-Improved Capital Value, £1.315,180; Net! Annual Value, £65,759.
Rates, 1945-General rate of 2/6d. in the £: levied in North and East Ridings and of 2/9d. in the £ in the South Riding. levied on Nett Annual Values.
Enlistments from Shire-approximately 320.
Electoral Divisions – Federal: Deakin. State: L.C., Southern Province. L.A.. Evelyn.
THE SHIRE COUNCIL, 1945-46.
President-Cr. T. Irvine.
COUNCILLORS.
Crs. E. J. Andrew, J.P.; F. E. Griffith; A. Brinkkotter; J. Cox, J.P.; H. Hewitt, J.P.; R. A. Bell; J. Smedley; F. V. Squire.
SHIRE OFFICERS.
Secretary, Engineer and Rate Collector-C. L. Tingate, J.P., C.E., A.M.l.E. (Aust.).
The Council meets on the second Monday in the month.
Shire Headquarters-Eltham.
This Shire covers a semi-suburban and rural area which lies to the north-east of Melbourne. The Shire headquarters is situated in the town of Eltham, which i only 16½ miles from Melbourne by rail. It is in the extreme south-west corner of the Shire and this area is distinctly suburban in character, but some fruit-growing and dairying is carried on. The township has electric light and water supply, sports grounds, three recreation reserves and the electrically lighted swimming baths. a State School. Higher Elementary School and a Private School. It is situated a mile and a half from the Yarra River and is a favourite spot for picnic parties.
Beyond Eltham the Shire siretches away to the north-east. where the country become” hilly and semi-mountainous, heavily timbered and rather sparsely populated. Much of the country is of a scenic nature and when fully developed will provide some of the finest scenic attractions in Victoria. The elevation of the country rises up to 1800 feet in this area, and it is a very healthy district with an excellent climate and is much availed of by the tourist. There are a number of timber mills in this area and some gold mines, although most of the mines are worked out.
Away from the more suburban area around Eltham and in the other parts of the Shire which are not heavily timbered, industries are mainly grazing, agricultural. fruit-growing and dairying, products being eggs, milk and considerable quantities of potatoes. The well-known Rob Roy property (W. E. Clinton), where Shetland ponies are bred, is situated in the Shire.
Active societies within the Shire include the Yarra Glen Agricultural and Horticultural Society, the Yarra Glen Race Club and an Anglers Club. Yarra Glen has a population of about 200 and is situated on the River Yarra, and like many other spots in the Shire is a well-known holiday resort.
THE SHIRE OF FERN TREE GULLY.
Proclaimed a Shire in 1889 on severance from Berwick Shire.
Area-121 sq. miles. Population- 12,000. Dwellings-5500. Length of roads-496 miles. Average rainfall-30 inches. Altitude–400 feet.
Valuation, 1945-Improved Capital Value, £3.610,620; Nett Annual Value. £180,5.31.
Rate, 1945-General rate of 3/- in the £ levied on Nett Annual Values.
Newspaper-“The Fern Tree Gully News,” published at Belgrave weekly on Fridays.
Electoral Divisions – Federal: Flinders. State: L.C., Southern Province. L.A., Upper Yarra.
THE SHIRE COUNCIL, 1945-46.
President-Cr. A. O. Gilmour.
COUNCILLORS.
Crs. V. W. Page, J.P.; Hon. G. L. Chandler, M.L.C., J.P.; J. C. Tyrrell, J.P.; A. C. Tye, J.P.; T. Merrett; F. G. Chipperfield; E. A. Leane, J.P.; C. King; T. Temple, J.P.; Violet B. Lambert; A. C. Lawson, F.C.A. (Aust.). J.P.; B S. Stilwell, J.P.; R. J. Collins, J.P.; G. E. Chandler.
SHIRE OFFICERS.
Shire Secretary and Treasurer-C. C. Dance, J.P.
Engineer and Building Surveyor-T. M. Heany, C.E., J.P.
Health Officer-Dr. S. Francis, M.B., B.S.
Health Officer-I. M. Kensley.
The Council meets on the second Monday in the month.
Shire Headquarters-Fern Tree Gully.
This pretty rural-suburban agricultural area and popular week-end playground district is situated east of Melbourne. Part of the area is vary hilly and mountainous, the southern slopes of Mount Dandenong being in the Shire area, and other parts are gently undulating. All kinds of mixed farming, dairying and fruit-growing are carried on, including the culture of berry fruits, which are made into jam. Throughout the hilly areas beautiful fern gullies abound, and in the Dandenong Ranges there are many stately forest giants.
The township of Fern Tree Gully has a population of about 1400, and is !he centre of a closely cultivated farming district, 21½ miles by electric railway from the Metropolis. There is reticulated water supply and electric light, two hotels and recreation grounds. Upper Fern Tree Gully, 23 miles from Melbourne by electric rail, is the stepping off place for the well-famed fern gullies, which abound in ferns, tree ferns and sasafras. Nearby is a State forest where are preserved trees of immense size. This whole area is deservedly popular with daily and week-end visitors, who are catered for by a good service of trains. Above Fern Tree Gully and its public park is One Tree Hill (1647 feet), which has a lookout on the top.
Belgrave is a dairying, berry fruit-growing and timber-cutting area, 26 miles by rail from the Metropolis. Here also magnificent mountain and bush scenery abounds and peaceful fern gullies are everywhere. This township is a very well-patronised week-end holiday resort, with electric light and an extensive auto camp. Recreational opportunities are wide and include a swimming baths and a lake; adjacent to Belgrave is the Dandenong State Forest. Olinda, a popular tourist resort at the top of Mount Dandenong, is just outside the Shire area, but from its 2000 feet altitude a modern and safe tourist road runs down the mountain to Fern Tree Gully. The same passes through the popular resort of Sassafras, where many Melbourne residents have erected pretty week-end houses. Magnificent panoramas are had from vantage points on this road and good ‘bus services cater for everyone in the area.
THE SHIRE OF HEALESVILLE.
Proclaimed a Shire in 1887.
Area-258 sq. miles. Population-3600. Dwellings-SSS. Length of roads-140 miles. Average rainfall-34 inches. Altitude varies from 200 feet to 4000 feet.
Valuations, 1945-Improved Capital Value, £910,840; Nett Annual Value, £45,542.
Rate, 1945-General rate of 3s. in the £, levied on Nett Annual Values.
Newspaper-“The Healesville Guardian,” published at Healesville weekly on Saturday.
Electoral Divisions-Federal: Deakin. State: L.C., Southern Province. L.A., Upper Yarra; Evelyn; Goulburn.
THE SHIRE COUNCIL, 1945-46.
President-Cr. A. Cameron, J.P.
COUNCILLORS.
Crs. J. W. Taylor; J. B. Cook; R. G. Pollard; C. B. McConnell; Muriel A. M. Murton; F. Barton, J.P.; H. A. Lindsay-Field; W. T. McGrath.
SHIRE OFFICERS.
Shire Secretary-W. Massey.
Shire Engineer-R. M. Scott.
Health Officer-Dr. S. H. Phillips, M.D.
The Council meets on the last Monday in the month.
Shire Headquarters-Healesville.
Situated about 40 to 50 miles north-east of Melbourne, this Shire covers an area of very mountainous country which is availed of by the residents of Melbourne as a near holiday resort. The Great Dividing Range traverses the Shire from west to east and mountain peaks within the district include Mount Juliet (3630 feet), Mount Strickland (4000 feet), Mount Vinegar (3300 feet), Mount Riddell (2750 feet), Donna Buang (4080 feet), and a number of others.
The ranges generally are heavily timbered with giant gum trees, and fern gullies and many waterfalls are – found. The mountain scenery generally is magnificent and there are a number of fine scenic roads throughout the Shire.
The main occupations of Shire residents are dairy farming, fruit growing, timber-cutting, and catering for the constant stream of visitors all the year round. The Shire town ship of Healesville is the terminus of the railway from Melbourne, 39 miles away, and has a population of 1500. It is picturesquely situated at the junction of the Graceburn and Watts rivers and has four hotels and a num ber of boarding houses. There is a swimming pool, recreation hall and facilities for other sport. Industries include a cordial fac tory, several sawmills and a timber seasoning works. Good shooting and fishing may be had and nearby at Coranderrk there is a sanctuary for native fauna. The township has electricity and water supply.
Other rural and tourist townships are Marysville, Narbethong and Buxton, which lies in the hills to the north of Healesville. Narbethonq is on the road from Healesville to Marysville and is 52 miles from Melbourne. It has a hotel and boarding and guest houses and many attractive walks are in the vicinity. Here re-afforestation is being carried on and permanent nurseries are established. Marysville (population, 500) is 8 miles further on and is renowned for its abundance of timber. Here eucalypts grow to a very great height, ranging as high as 300 feet, and in the Cumberland Valley, 12 miles from Marysville, an area of big timber has been cleared of undergrowth to allow of the giant trees being seen to advantage. In this clearing there are 27 trees of which the average height is 266 feet.
Marysville is a progressive tourist town with sporting amenities, an hotel, boarding houses, and picture theatre. Several saw mills are engaged in the timber trade. Good fishing and shooting are available, and good roads and tracks have been made to charming spots in the virgin bush. Waterfalls and lookouts are many in the district.
Buxton is another agricultural township on the Steavenson River, 7 miles beyond Marys ville. St. Fillans is at the start of the Acheron Way-a scenic road leading to Warburton through the Acheron Valley, and Toolangi is a well-known tourist resort on the Great Dividing Range, near Mount St. Leonard. Here there is a Government Ob servatory, an hotel, and a number of saw mills. Excellent fishing and shooting may be had in this area.
The district generally is rich in waterfalls. tracks for riding and walking, lookouts presenting vistas of blue forest ranges and fern gullies, and bush scenery abounds. Of especial interest also is the Sir Colin MacKenzie Sanctuary, which comprises 78 acres of virgin bush country on Badger’s Creek, where all Australian animals may be seen under natural conditions in the game reserve.
THE SHIRE OF KEILOR.
Created a District in 1863 and proclaimed a Shire in 1871.
Area-5.3 sq. miles. Population-3171. Dwellings-736. Length of roads- 154 miles. Average rainfall-29 inches. Altitude-300 to 400 feet.
Valuations, 1945-Improved Capital Value, £1,507,640; Nett Annual Value, £75,382.
Rate, 1945-General rate of l/9d. in the £ levied on Nett Annual Value.
Electoral Divisions-Federal: Corio. State: L.C., Southern Province. L.A., Essendon; Bulla and Dalhousie.
THE SHIRE COUNCIL, 1945-46.
President-Cr. F. E. Jolly, J.P.
COUNCILLORS.
Crs. J. Fox; F. Milburn; A. J. Davis, J.P.; W. J. Parr, J.P.; L. J, Butterley; F. E. Stenson, J.P.; W. N. Gooch, J.P.; A. Dickson.
SHIRE OFFICERS.
Shire Secretary-N A. Woods, J.P.
Shire Engineer-W. M. Pullar, C.E.
Health Inspector-V. P. Nind.
Health Officer-Dr. A. W. Gordon, M.D.
The Council meets on the first Saturday in the month.
Shire Headquarters-Keilor.
This suburban Shire is situated to the north-west of Melbourne in between the Shires of Braybrook and Broadmeadows, and is a farming and grazing area and rural residential district. In the eastern central part of the Shire is the township of Keilor, on the Maribyrnong River, at a point about four miles distant from the City of Essendon. It is a good residential and farming area with small holdings and has a population of about 300. Near the eastern boundary of the Shire is the thriving residential suburb of North Essendon, which is partly within the Shire boundaries and has a population of about 1700. St. Albans is another residential township which is situated on the railway line from Melbourne to Castlemaine, which crosses the Shire. Sydenham, further north on the same line, is an area which is closely settled with small farms. Here all kinds of cereals are grown; there is a chaff cutting mill in the settlement. Good fishing may be had in creeks in the surrounding neighbourhood. Tullamarine, in the northern part of the Shire, is a hay-growing centre.
THE SHIRE OF LILYDALE.
Created a District in 1856 and proclaimed a Shire in 1872.
Area-170 sq. miles. Population- 10,250. Dwellings-3597. Length of roads-202 miles. Average rainfall-30 inches. Altitude-300 feet at Lilydale and 500 at Croydon.
Valuations, 1945-Improved Capital Value, £3,509,520; Nett Annual Value, £175.476.
Rate, 1945-General rate of 2/6d. in the £ levied on Nett Annual Values.
Newspapers-“The Lilydale Express,” pub lished weekly on Fridays; “The Croydon Mail,” published weekly on Thursdays at Croydon.
Electoral Divisions-Federal: Deakin. State: L.C., Southern Province. L.A., Evelyn; Upper Yarra.
THE SHIRE COUNCIL, 1945-46.
President-Cr. H. H. Parker, J.P.
COUNCILLORS.
Crs. J. P. Doake, J.P.; C. A. Hochkins, J.P.; W. E. Hutchinson; R. V. Tribolet, J.P.; K. E. McCracken; K. A. McLaughlir,; A. H. Chand ler; F. E. Rogers; J. R. C. Plante; F. W. Britton; H. E. Jeeves, J.P.
SHIRE OFFICERS.
Shire Secretary-E. Winterbottom.
Engineer-D. H. Olive, C.E.
Treasurer-S. Latimer.
Health Inspector-A. H. McKibbin.
Health Officer-Dr. F. F. McMahon, M.D.
The Council meets on the fourth Monday in the month.
Shire Headquarters-Lilydale.
The area of the Lilydale Shire includes the famous Mount Dandenong and the tourist playground of Olinda, and owing to its close proximiiy to Melbourne it is used by many tourists for day trips and longer holidays and also by many residents of the Metropolis for week-end and country homes.
The Shire township of Lilydale is 23½ miles north-east of Melbourne by rail, being the junction of the Healesville and Warburton lines, and it is well recognised as a tourist centre. All sports are catered for. There are three hotels, State and Higher Elementary Schools, and a free library. Water is laid on and electricity is available. The public swimming baths near Olinda Creek are very spacious and there are picnic grounds for the motorist. Notewo1ihy are the English trees which have been set and now adorn the streets of the township. There is a large cheese factory in the township.
The progressive township of Croydon is set in the middle of a fruit-growing district and is also a popular week-end and tourist resort. The local Horticultural Society holds popular Spring and Autumn shows. Mount Dandenong is one of the premier tourist re sorts and urban residential areas in the whole of the State. Excellent roads lead over the mountain from the Croydon side, up through Olinda and down on the other side through Sassafras to Fern Tree Gully. The mountain and gullies are heavily timbered. There are many forest giants and countless native birds in the bush. From many van tage points from the top of the mountain sweeping panoramas may be had, and on a clear day the waters of Port Phillip and Western Port may be seen in either direction. Whilst some fruit-growing and potato-growing is carried on in various parts of the mountain, it is, nevertheless, distinctly a tourist and week-end resort. Olinda, at the top of the mountain, is a very favoured holiday resort and abounds with majestic scenery. Endless excursions may be made from Olinda through beautiful forests and fern gullies and all manner of sporting recreations are provided.Abundant first-rate accommodation is avail able including that at the Hotel Dandenong, a little way below Olinda.
THE SHIRE OF MELTON.
Created a District in 1862 and proclaimed a Shire in 1871.
Area-134 sq. miles. Population-1500. Dwellings-360. Length of roads-207 miles. Average rainfall-28 inches. Altitude-400 feet at Melton.
Valuations, 1945-Improved Capital Value, £876.400; Nett Annual Value, £43,820.
Rate, 1945-General rate of 1/6d. in the £ levied on Nett Annual Values.
Newspaper-“The Melton Express,” published weekly on Saturdays.
Electoral Divisions-Federal: Corio. State: L.C., Southern Province. L.A., Bulla and Dalhousie.
THE SHIRE COUNCIL, 1945-46.
President-Cr. A. W. Condie.
COUNCILLORS.
Crs. H. H. Borbidge; W. Leake, J.P.; G. Robinson; J. Beaty; A. N. L. Walter; J. R. Wallace, J.P.; G. E. Robinson, J.P.; T. L. Barrie.
SHIRE OFFICERS.
Shire Secretary-G. Minns, J.P.
Engineer and Treasurer-G. T. Little, C.E., L.S.
The Council meets on the last Wednesday in the month.
Shire Headquarters-Melton.
The Shire of Melton is situated a little over 20 miles west of Melbourne. and is crossed by the railway line to Ballarat. The country for the most part is open and fairly level; sheep are grazed, and hay especially grown.
Melton has a population of 250 and is 23 miles by rail on the Ballarat line; electricity is available in the town. There are two chaff mills at Melton South. At Toolern Vale, in the north, mixed farming is carried on
and timber-cutting is extensive.
THE SHIRE OF MULGRAVE.
Created a District in 1857 and proclaimed a Shire in 1871. Name changed from Oakleigh Shire to present name in 1897.
Area-25½ square miles. Population-4000. Dwellings-973. Length of roads-106 miles. Average rainfall-30 inches. Altitude -100 to 300 feet.
Valuations. 1945-Improved Capital Value, £1,514,640; Nett Annual Value, £75,732.
Rate, 1945-Ganeral rate of 2/6d. in the £ levied on Nett Annual Values.
Electoral Divisions – Federal: Flinders. State: L.C., Southern Province. L.A., Dandenong; Oakleigh; Upper Yarra; Boroondara.
THE SHIRE COUNCIL, 1945-46.
President-Cr. L. G. Stocks.
COUNCILLORS.
Crs. C. H. Coleman, J.P.; W. M. Forster, J.P.; A. J. Garnett; L. W. Allen; J. Stocks; J. Parkinson; A. F. Salmon; A. J. Bunny, J.P.
SHIRE OFFICERS.
Shire Secretary-G. C. C. Carmichael, A.F.I.A .. A.A.LS.
Consulting Engineer-T. M. Heany, C.E.
Health Officer-Dr. J. F. Adamson, M.B.
The Council meets on every fourth Thursday.
Shire Headquarters-Notting Hill.
This semi-suburban Shire is situated to the south-east of Melbourne and consists of very fertile agricultural black sandy soil on which fruit-growing, market-gardening and poultry farming is largely carried out. On its western borders it has the Cities of Oakleigh, Malvern and Camberwell, and rail facilities are provided by an electric rail service from Melbourne, which is about 11 to 14 miles away from the Shire. Notting Hill, the set tlement in which the Shire Hall is situated, has a population of about 280, and in this area there is a water reservoir for the Metropolitan supply, Mount Waverley is a fruit growing a£ea with a population of about 150, and Clayton, 12 miles from Melbourne by rail, has a .Municipal Abattoirs, Glen Waverley, with a population of about 350, is an orcharding area, and Tallyho, on the borders of the City of Nunawading, is a market gardening district.
THE SHIRE OF UPPER YARRA.
Created a Shire in 1888.
Area-623 sq. miles. Population-3835. Dwellings-1300. Length of roads-253 miles. Average rainfall-.30 inches. Altitude-523 feet at Warburton and mountainous in the north-east of the Shire.
Valuation, 1945-Improved Capital Value, £1.003,507; Nett Annual Value, £53,585.
Rate, 1945-Genetal rate of 3s. in the £ levied on Nett Annual Values.
Newspaper-“The Warburton Mail.” pub lished at Warburton weekly on Fridays.
Elecioral Divisions – Federal: Deakin; Gippsland. State: L.C., Southern Province. L.A., Upper Goulburn; Upper Yarra; Wal halla.
THE SHIRE COUNCIL, 1945-46.
President-Cr. H. C. Cook.
COUNCILLORS.
Crs. G. H. Bussell, J.P.; R. Wallace; F. B. Tindale; A. A. Pinder; N. E. Golding; C. Mathers; J. M. Henry, J.P.; H. B. Everard, J.P.
SHIRE OFFICERS.
Secretary, Treasurer and Engineer-M. A. Thomas, A.M.I.C.E.
Collector and Assistant Secretary-Sophia M. Ingram.
Asst. Engineer and Building Inspector-J. J. Bourke.
Health Inspector-A. H. McKibbin.
Health Officer-Dr. N. Murdoch, M.B., B.S.
The Council meets on the first Monday in the month.
Shire Headquarters-Yarra Junction.
This Shire, situated to the east of Mellbourne, is crossed from west to east by the River Yarra and is essentially a holiday resort for the citizens of the Metropolis. It abounds in beautiful bush and mountain scenery, and progressive authorities have provided all attractions for the tourist. The Shire area, apart from its wooded, heavily timbered hill-, is used for grazing, dairying and agriculture, and a considerable amount of fruit is grown. Throughout the length of this Yarra Valley there are scattered many townships and settlements, most of them catering for :he holiday-maker, and being so close to Melbourne they enjoy a constant flow of week-end and day traffic.
The Shire township of Warburton is situated on the Yarra River about 48 miles from Melbourne by rail at an altitude of about 500-odd feet. Here, every provision for the comfort of the tourist is made, the towniship having a reticulated water supply and electricity, a picture show, golf links, tennis courts, bowling green, and many boarding houses. Splendid fishing may be had in the river and the surrounding creeks, and industry is represented by a printing works, timber mills and a health food factory. The Seventh Dav Adventist settlement is situated about a mile from the town. In recent years the qrowing of vegetables in this area and in other places along the river flats has in creased considerably. At East Warburton them are sawmills and tourist boarding houses; at Powelltown a prominent timber company, which employs over 100 hands; and at Yarra Junction, the Shire headquarters, guest houses and sporting amenities have made it very popular for those desiring river and mountain scenery.
Along the river banks there are a number of camping reserves and the whole of the Yarra Valley is a great field for anyone in search of recreation or sport. The whole area is a paradise for hikers, there being walks leading to magnificent scenery at every point of the compass. Bird and animal life is abundant in the area, and in particular the shy Lyrebird can be heard in the valleys. Trout fishing is excellent both in the river and its many tributary streams. An outstanding feature in the Shire is Mount Donna Buang, which, from a height of 4080 feet, overlooks Warburton, A good road runs to the summit and from, the lookout extensive views are obtained. In the winter, ski runs are obtainable on parts of the mountain. Reservoirs are now placed in the Shire and at Walsh’s Creek, 20 miles from Warburton, it is proposed to build the largest storage reservoir yet built for the Melbourne water supply. Considerable timber is taken out of the Shire including messmate, black butt and blackwood, and near East Warburton there is a timber-seasoning works.
THE SHIRE OF WERRIBEE.
Created a District in 1862 and proclaimed a Shire in 1864.
Area-271 sq. miles. Population-7500. Dwellings- 1800. Length of roads-.306 miles. Average rainfall-21 inches. Altitude-77 feet at Werribee.
Valuation, 1945-Improved Capital Value, £2,566,100; Nett Annual Value, £128,305. (Note: These figures exclude a considerable area of non-rateable property.)
Rate, 1945-General rates of 2s. in the £ in the South Riding; 2/6d. in the £ in the Norlh and East Ridings; 2/9d. in the £ in the Altona Riding, and 3s. in the £ in the Central Riding; all levied on Nett Annual Values.
Newspaper-“The Werribee Shire Banner,” published weekly on Thursdays.
Electoral Divioions-Federal: Corio. State: L.C., Southern Province. L.A., Grant; Wil liamstown.
THE SHIRE COUNCIL, 1945-46.
President-Cr. W. W. Shaw, J.P.
COUNCILLORS.
Crs. E. G. Finch, J.P.; W. Bailey, J.P.; J. K. Grant, J.P.; A. J. L. Hayes; J Ryan, J.P.; W. Carter; C. E. Taylor, J.P.; R. S. Mark; F. A. Emery; F. H. Davis; J. Carter; B. Morrow, J.P.; L. E. Earl; P. Didier.
SHIRE OFFICERS.
Shire Secretary and Rate Collector-G. P. Muirhead.
Shire Engineer and Building Surveyor-A. McCormack, C.E.
The Council meets on the second Thursday in the month.
Shire Headquarters-Werribee.
This area is comprised mainly of easy undulating country, Some of it is lightly timbered and the remainder is given over to sheep and cattle grazing, dairy farming, fruit farming and market gardening.
The township of Werribee, in which the Shire Hall is situated, is 20 miles south-west of Melbourne by rail. It is a very progressive and modern centre with a population of about 3000, and public facilities include water supply and electricity. An authority has been set up to provide a sewerage system for the town. It is a popular spot with visitors, there being good fishing in the river and in Port Phillio Bay some miles away, and it is reached by a very good road from Melbourne as well as by rail, There is a racecourse and a camping ground, a very fine picnic ground and a high-class swimming pool. There is a Government Research Farm near the township and a milk factory in the town.
The aerodrome at Point Cook near Laverton was the scene of great Air Force activity during the war. Altona, a popular watering place on the Bay, has a population nearly as big as Werribee. It has a long pier into, the Bay, good boating and swimming facilities and, being only 10 miles by electric rail from Melbourne, is availed of as a subur ban residential area as well as a tourist resort. Business establishments are up to date and there is a particularly good community hospital. Another attractive spot and a mecca for visitors is the rural township of Little River near the boundary of Corio Shire.
THE SHIRE OF WHITTLESEA.
Created a District in 1862 and proclaimed a Shire in 1874.
Area-215 square miles. Population-3265. Dwellings-870. Length of roads-190 miles. Average rainfall-26 inches. Altitude-varies from 400 feet to 2000 feet.
Valuations, 1945-Improved Capital Value, £1,506,620; Neil Annual Value, £75,331.
Rates, 1945-General rate of 2s. in the £ in Epping Riding and of 2/6d. in the £ in other Ridings; all levied on Nett Annual Values.
Electoral Divisions-Federal: Corio; Deakin. State: L.C., Southern Province. L.A., Bulla Dalhousie; Evelyn.
THE SHIRE COUNCIL, 1945-46.
President-Cr. J. A. Balharrie, J.P.
COUNCILLORS.
Crs. A. J. McDonald; A. V. Wood; J. G. Orgill, J.P.; J. Cliff, J.P.; K. McPhee; A. P, McFarlane; R. L. Reid; B. J. McCormack, J.P.; E. Owens; R. C. T. Creighton, J.P.; T. H. Hurrey, J.P.
SHIRE OFFICERS.
Shire Secretary-R. G. C. Cook.
Engineer-H. E. Griffiths.
Acting Secretary-F. M. Mortyn.
Acting Engineer-W. M. Pullar, B.C.E.
Health Officer-Dr. A. F. C. Day, M.B.
The Council meets on the second Wednesday in the month.
Shire Headquarters-Epping.
This Shire lies to the north of the Metropolis and the Cities of Preston and Heidelberg, and is a semi-suburban and rural district devoted to general farming, dairying and fruit growing. Sheep are also grazed and fattened for the Metropolitan market. The output of the dairying industry is considerable.
There are no townships of any real size within the Shire as most business is transacted by the residents in Melbourne itself. The Shire Hall is situated in the settlement of Epping, which is only 13 miles from Melbourne by rail on the line which passes north through the Shire and terminates at Whittle sea, 25 miles from Melbourne. The latter township is at the foot of Plenty Ranges and there are two hotels in the town. There is some fine scenery in the Shire in the neighbourhood of the Plenty Ranges and there are waterfalls at Bruce’s Creek. Kinglake West is a fruit growing district which provides interesting rural scenery. Near Morang there are picnic grounds and the popular Plenty River Gorge. Near Yan Yean h the large storage reservoir from which Melbourne gets one of its main supplies of water. The whole Shire area is closely settled and there are many flourishing orchards through out the district.
