Radiogram to be restored

By Tina Seirlis

An antique radiogram with links to local industry is set to be restored after a grant was secured by a local not for profit group.

The Marshman Music Master Radiogram was originally produced by the Arbee Supply Company Pty Ltd which had sites in Rockbank, Melton and Bacchus Marsh.

Perhaps a technology lost to the ages like so many items that have come and gone over the last century, the radiogram was said to have reached the height of its popularity in the post-war era and ahead of television becoming a household utility. During its heyday, the radiogram held pride of place as a piece of household furniture which generally comprised a radio receiver, a record turntable, and a sound amplifier, all packaged neatly within a reasonably fancy timber cabinet. The brand ‘Marshman’ is said to stem from the town’s name, hence the local interest.

The Bacchus Marsh and District Historical Society received the radiogram by way of donation earlier this year, with a suitable grant funding program discovered soon after.

Recently appointed President of the volunteer-run group, John Spain, said the donation occurred shortly before the Furniture History Society Australia grant became available.

“Just as a large TV can be seen as a piece of furniture, so too can an old radiogram. So it was a happy coincidence of the Society having a piece of “furniture” to be restored and a grant becoming available for just that purpose,” he said.

Mr Spain said the objective of the radiogram project is for the Historical Society to be able to demonstrate a working radiogram in a local exhibition. While the successful grant application has provided the Historical Society with $2400 towards the radiogram’s restoration, according to Mr Spain, costs are expected to exceed this amount.

“It is anticipated that the Society will make up the difference, although we welcome donations from the wider community, that would also be appreciated.”

The local Historical Society was first established in 1968 by concerned residents keen to prevent the loss of the town’s historical documents, photographs and artefacts. The group is said to have 65 members, with around 20 of those actively volunteering their time each week.

“New members are always welcome on the basis they support the Society’s purpose, which is ‘the study, collection and preservation of Bacchus Marsh and District’s history, historical places and objects,” Mr Spain said.

The Society’s archives are based at the Lerderderg Library in Bacchus Marsh and, are open to the public on Thursday between 10am and 12 noon, and 1pm to 3pm.

For more info: https://bmdhs.au or visit Facebook.