From the pages of the McIvor Times

150 years ago

Published 22 April 1875

Random Notions

A FEW nights ago the equilibrium of a family circle at Mount Camel was abruptly disturbed by noise so unearthly and sepulchral — yet so low and distinct — near the back door, as to make all in the room hold their breath, perhaps to listen, and perhaps with fright.

But they had not long to wait, for the sound came rumbling through the keyhole more unearthly and more sepulchral than before, and the fear-smitten countenances of those assembled told plainly that they thought there was something supernatural around.

The sound continued, the inmates grew impatient, and armed themselves with convenient things inside and determined to open the door and issue out to see where it came from.

If the sound was bad, the site was worse, for not twelve paces from the back door stood spectral object about fourteen feet high in its stockings, with a hump on its back like Mount Camel itself, and enveloped in the usual winding sheet.

To rush inside was the work of an instant, and to bang, bolt, and barricade the door the work of another.

The after feelings of the family circle can be better imagined than described, and I suppose their dreams, if they went to sleep, were not of the pleasantest kind that night.

One, though, in the rush for the door plucked up enough courage to throw a pot stick at his ghostship, and next morning this missile was found bitten in two, apparently savagely bitten in two, besides other perceptible signs of rough treatment on it.

This restless spirit with the substantial jaws has also made itself visible in the Mount Pleasant district, and like the spectre of the Brocken was even seen in a great extended form airing itself on top of the mount, which is looked upon as pleasant no longer.

Great excitement prevails in the neighbourhood of the two mounts at the visit of the apparition.

100 years ago

Published 1 April 1925

The X Ray

The Heathcote Hospital is now the proud possessor of an X Ray apparatus, which will be a boon to the district sufferers.

But let those who have so far not subscribed remember that it is not yet paid for.

We acknowledge the following donations:– W Hayes £3, 3/; T Hall £1.

Published 22 April 1925

Brawl at Station

On race night, as the Melbourne special was due to leave Heathcote, trouble occurred in one of the carriages over money matters, and there was an all-round mix-up.

The train was signalled away by the stationmaster (Mr Hosking), but was stopped again in answer to a call.

Upon investigation it was found that a man had had his fingers severed by the slamming of the door.

There was reticence on all sides regarding the affair.

The sufferer was attended by Dr Bull.

50 years ago

Published 8 April 1975

Closure of Costerfield Mine

“The closure of the mining activities at Costerfield was one of much regret,” Mr Jock Granter, Minister of Water Supply and Forests, said last Friday.

Mr Granter said the company had encountered a number of difficulties early in its operations.

“Just when the problems had been overcome and it appeared as though the mine would be a viable proposition it then faced the problem of extra finance to allow it to continue its activities,” he said.

Mr Granter said that after an application had been made by the company to the Hon R Connors, MHR, Federal Minister for Minerals and Energy, which was rejected, he took the matter up with the Minister but was advised that after further investigations he could not support the venture.

Mr Granter said he also approached the Hon M Byrne, Minister for State Development and Deentralisation, and Mr Balfour, Minister for Mines, Fuel and Power, but they felt support should come from the Commonwealth Government.

Mr Granter further stated that the management have reduced the staff to three in order that maintenance may be maintained whilst they continue their efforts to find support for their venture.

The management informed Mr Granter that they regretted having to stand down a team of men who were now well trained in mining.

Published 22 April 1975

Zone Chairman of Lions

Lion Phonse Lonergan has been appointed zone chairman and his fellow members of the Heathcote Lions Club and his many friends wish him every success.

The area which he will cover takes in such far away places as Yea and Mansfield.

Lion Phonse is a most enthusiastic and devoted member of Lions International and is ever ready to help anyone who needs assistance.

He has personally spent many hours in service work and the Heathcote Club made great strides when he was president in 1973.

With such a pleasant personality Lion Phonse will no doubt make a success of his office and see that the work of Lions is carried out in the best possible manner.