Story of former mayor restored and donated

A FRAMED document highlighting the service of a Borough of Eaglehawk mayor and council during late 1890s has been donated to the community.

Known as an illuminated address, the piece was given to the City of Greater Bendigo by the Eaglehawk Heritage Society last week and will hang in the suburb’s old town hall.

The address was acquired by the history group in 2022 from the former mayor’s home, where it had been since Michael Curtain served as the mayor of the Borough of Eaglehawk in 1898 and 1899.

Secretary and treasurer of the Eaglehawk Heritage Society, Bev Hanson, said Mr Curtain had a background in mining, before buying hotels and being elected to council, he was also involved with local sports groups and committees.

“Everything he was involved in he did well,” said Ms Hanson. “He was just very important to the community. When he died, they flew the flag at half-mast.

“Everything he touched turned to gold.”

Another longstanding member of the society Elaine Harrington said she was very pleased the relic now had a resting place at town hall.

“This magnificently restored illuminated address is a testament to what we have been able to achieve,” said Ms Harrington.

City of Greater Bendigo mayor Cr Andrea Metcalf thanked members of the Eaglehawk Heritage Society for work to raise funds to preserve the historical work.

“I’ve no doubt descendants of Mr Curtain here today are proud to be related to such a revered man, 124 years after his death we continue to reflect on and celebrate his success,” she said.

Descendants of Mr Curtain, members of the heritage society, and several members of the public attended the handover.

Eaglehawk Heritage Society raised $11,500 for works to preserve the illuminated address.