Workshop to gather stories of Eaglehawk history

EAGLEHAWK residents are being invited to share stories about their township’s history and character in a workshop run by heritage experts early next month.

The event is part of the first stage of development of a new Eaglehawk Heritage Study that is being prepared by the City of Greater Bendigo.

The workshop will contribute to a thematic history, a first step in developing the heritage study and which will provide a broad historical overview of the area.

A thematic history identifies and explains the main factors, processes and events that have shaped a particular location or subject.

The heritage study itself will cover the former Borough of Eaglehawk comprising Eaglehawk, Eaglehawk North, Sailors Gully, California Gully, Jackass Flat and parts of Long Gully.

The workshop will run from 6pm (6.30pm start) to 8pm on Monday 2 December at the Eaglehawk Bowling Club in Simpsons Road. A light supper will be provided at 7pm.

Residents will be joined by heritage consultants Mandy Jean and Charles Fahey, who have been engaged to prepare Stage 1, or the thematic history, of the heritage study.

After a short presentation on the early findings of their research, attendees will be given an opportunity to look at a collection of historic photos and plans, share stories and information, and speak with the consultants and City staff about the project.

City strategy and growth director Rachel Lee said the workshop would help guide development of the heritage study.

“Mandy and Charles have been busy researching the history of Eaglehawk and have collated some themes that will form the basis of the study, but they would like to hear from residents and anyone with a connection to Eaglehawk,” Ms Lee said.

“The heritage study is not just about Eaglehawk’s beautiful buildings from the past; it is only part of painting a bigger picture of Eaglehawk’s fascinating history.

“The themes identified for Stage 1 of the project include sports, mining, housing, and agriculture so please attend the workshop and share your stories and highly valued knowledge about Eaglehawk.”

The workshop will be free to attend but people must register at letstalkgreaterbendigo.com.au/eaglehawk-heritage-study/community-workshop by Monday 25 November.

If residents are unable to book online or wish to speak to City project officer Brendan Aikman, call 1300 002 642 or email [email protected].