Carlo creates a Beautiful Design for a Recreation Reserve and Public Park at Spotswood

In 1910, Cr Stephen Byrne (1) of the Williamstown Council raised the issue that there were 82 acres of Crown land on the west side of the river Yarra and south side of Stony Creek, at Spotswood, from which immense quantities of stone have been quarried, leaving a most unlevel and dangerous surface. That those quarries, covering such a large area, only four miles from the city of Melbourne, form a barrier to settlement on one of the best residential and factory sites about the city and retard in an eminent degree the progress and prosperity of the municipality of Williamstown. Cr Byrne urged the Government to reclaim the land by using silt supplied by the Melbourne Harbour Trust. (2)

Six years later, in July 1916, one suggested use of some of this quarry land was to create a park, the boundaries of which were to be the Stony Creek to the north, The Avenue to the south, Creek Street to the east and Melbourne Road to the west (Melbourne Road becomes Williamstown Road, north of Stony Creek), as seen on the map below. 

The proposed park location had as its boundaries -  Stony Creek to the north, The Avenue to the south, Melbourne Road to the west and Creek Street the east. 

Spotswood and Newport 1927. Morgan's street directory, Melbourne & suburbs 1927. 

State Library of Victoria http://handle.slv.vic.gov.au/10381/287999

To this end of creating a new park in Spotswood,  the local member of Parliament suggested that Carlo Catani could be be involved, as the Williamstown Advertiser, reported - 

Proposed Spotswood Lake. Mr C. Catani, C.E., to report. Mr. J. Lemmon, M L.A., some time ago suggested to the Progress Association that it might do some thing to make use of the natural features of Stony Creek with a view to beautification. The recreation reserve is on its banks and he thought the water might be impounded and formed into a lake, and suggested that the services of Mr C. Catani, Chief Engineer of Public Works, who was an expert landscape gardener, might be requisitioned for to consider whether the ground enclosed might not be converted into a national park. The Association has adopted the suggestion and at the request of Mr Lemmon the Minister has promised that a report will be obtained from Mr Catani at an early date.  (3)

Towards the end of July Carlo met with Mr. J. Lemmon, M.L.A., the Mayor of Williamstown, Cr Byrne, and  a number of local residents and -

An inspection of the site, its area and surface, which is broken by projecting rock and deep depressions, was made. Mr. Catani subsequently promised to have a survey undertaken and levels and suggestions for improvement made. The engineer regards the site as one of the best and most picturesque about Melbourne. With artistic laying out and subsequent care the park would be come a place of beauty. The Mayor suggested that throwing a concrete wall across Stony Creek, and creating an artificial lake would add to the beautification and popularity of the park, and that by raising the ford over the Stony Creek a second lake of very great value could be secured. (4)

It was nearly a year later, in May 1917, just after Carlo had retired from the Public Works Department, that the plan was presented to the public and the Yarraville Weekly News described it as a complete and beautiful design for a recreation reserve and public park at Spotswood. (5)

As the Spotswood Park design appears to be one of Carlo's final projects, his report, as published in the Williamstown Advertiser, is reproduced here in full. The total cost of the plan was £3,515, of which the funds for the whole work, Mr Catani, suggests might be raised by some public function, "after the victorious conclusion of the war" (6)  Sadly, we don't have copies of the the two plans which accompanied his report.

The Secretary,  As instructed I visited Spotswood with Mr Lemmon, M.L A., councillors and residents, and having heard their views, aspirations and requirements, beg to submit this report and two drawings illustrating the proposal which I would submit for the laying out of a park and recreation reserve in that locality.

Area of Park - I must point out that it became apparent on inspection that the recreation reserve already set apart for recreation purposes at Spotswood is, owing to the broken nature of the ground, insufficient for the purpose of a recreation reserve alone, as it would be impossible to lay out in it a proper sports oval, which ought to be at least 120 x 200 yards. In order, therefore, to meet the requirements of the case, I am assuming that about 23 acres of Crown land comprised within the Melbourne rd., the Avenue, Creek st., the southern boundary of allot 79 and its production to the creek, and the Stony Creek itself will be made available for the purpose of the park. I suggest, besides that, about 4½ acres of private land be re-purchased in order to create a lake in the depression of the creek with a path surrounding same as indicated on plan. The total area of the park should be 27 acres.

Sports Oval - The main feature of the reserve will be the formation of the sports oval 200 x 120 yards, surrounded by a mound 30 ft. wide with [?] to 1 slopes for the convenience of the spectators and path 20 in. wide giving access to same. The oval is so located that it will be level along the longitudinal axis and have a cross fall of about 5 ft. The extent of cutting and filling is shown in cross and longitudinal sections in drawing "B." The total excavation will be about 4500 yards, and it is assumed that the stone excavated will be sold to the Council for spalls, so that it will only cost the trustees 1/- per yard to remove, or £225 in all. If the Council could be prevailed upon forming roads in the vicinity of the park and depositing the excavated material in the oval, the excavation and the cost would be considerably reduced. Once the sport ground shall have been formed revenue can be obtained, if power to make a charge on occasions can be secured. The ramp round the oval can be constructed with loose boulders covered with material from various sources when it shall become available.

Tennis Courts - Two tennis courts should be provided as close as possible to the railway station, and a separate tennis club should provide for their construction and pay a small ground rent to the trustees; or they could be made public courts, the players paying so much a game, as is being done in the Metropolitan area.

Bowling Green and Croquet Lawns - The same may be said of the bowling green and croquet lawns, which should be built and managed by special clubs paying ground rent to the trustees.

Paths - The paths should be set out as shown in drawing "A," well raised in the centre, properly drained, and their surface treated with coal ashes at first, but with proper gravel as soon as funds become available. The work in the early stages should be done by working bees.

Plantations, Rockeries, Lawns, etc. - The ground should be shaped; the rough boulders should be sold or placed in depressions, or banks, or utilised in the rookeries which could be terraced, or arranged on the boarders of the lake, where headlands and points of vantage could be created. A water supply would be necessary before extensive planting could be made. The lawns should be graded, soiled, and may at first consist of rough grass, cut occasionally with a mowing machine, or eaten by cattle, until the sports enclosure shall provide sufficient revenue to maintain proper lawns and make floral displays. Trees, supplied by the Forest's department, may be planted by working bees supervised by the municipal ranger; palms can follow.

Lake - Some 4½ acres of private land will require to be purchased as indicated on plan "B." The funds for this purpose might be raised after the victorious conclusion of the war. A jetty, boats, shelters and refreshment room will follow in due course.

Fencing.- A neat and cheap fence may be of use in the early stages for collecting revenue from agistment fees. When the park shall have reached its proper development, the fence may be replaced by hedges and plantations.

Caretaker's Cottage and Sanitary Conveniences - A pretty cottage could be built for the curator of the park and sanitary conveniences provided. 

These are the leading features I would recommend for the consideration of the trustees of the park, and it would be useless to go into fuller details so far in advance of requirements. The essentials at present are - The securing of the additional Crown land to prevent the creation of vested interests hostile to the future development of the schemes; the formation of the sports oval, and the completion of a somewhat light fence, the whole of which can be done for about £300, or less, if plenty of volunteer help be

available,

I append an estimate of the complete scheme. 

C. CATANI Chief Engineer. (7)

The costings, as provided by Carlo were  - 

1. Levelling, etc.- Rock, 2,250 yds; soil, 2,250 yds, at 1/- per yd. __ £225. (A recoup in respect of stone if sold for roadmaking is anticipated to the extent of 2/6 per yard; therefore, 1/- per yard is allowed instead of 3/6)

2. Forming bank round oval, 4,800 yds. at 1/ __ £240

3. Forming paths, 150 chains at £1 __ £150

4. Tree planting __ £300

5. Water supply __  £200

6. Drainage __ £300

7. Tennis court __ £150

8. Bowling green and shelters __ £200

9. Croquet lawn __ £300

10. Preparing and planting lawns __ £300

11. Rockeries, terraces, etc. __  £150

12. Lake, jetty, dam, etc. __ £300

13, Rotunda __ £150

14. Caretaker's quarters __ £350

15. Fencing-60 chains at 30/  __ £100

16. Sanitary conveniences __ £300

Total __ £3,515  (8)

So this was Carlo's beautiful design for the Spotswood Park. As is expected for a grand vision not all of the community were in favour - those against thought the land could be better used for industry; that a park would be better established in a more central location; that as the Stony Creek was the border of the City of Williamstown and the City of Footscray, that people of Footscray would benefit from Williamstown's expenditure; that the existing reserves in the area are not being maintained and that the money could be better used for other purposes. (9) One local in favour suggested that it would benefit Spotswood as a whole -  were Mr Catani's scheme carried out, the whole district would benefit, as the passengers going up and down the river on boats would speedily get a different impression altogether of this neighborhood. (10)

Spotswood Recreation Reserve, marked in this 1930 Street Directory. 

The Avenue is called Bay View Avenue here. 

Spotswood, Newport and Yarraville, 1930

Morgan's street directory. Melbourne & suburbs, 1930. 

State Library of Victoria  http://handle.slv.vic.gov.au/10381/288125

Did Carlo's beautiful design come to fruition? Some of it did but it took  a decade or so, as the land had to be reclaimed from quarry use.  For instance, in 1926 it was decided to place the tennis court elsewhere as the filling up of the Spotswood Recreation Reserve would take some time to settle sufficiently. (11) 

Work appears to have been commenced in 1928, as in the July it was reported -

For the purpose of taking steps to relieve distress at Spotswood, a public meeting was held yesterday in the local mechanics' institute. The mayor of Williamstown (Cr. Wilcher) presided. An offer was made by Williamstown council to donate £500 towards making a sports oval on the ground set apart for the purpose adjoining the Melbourne-road, provided that £250 was raised by residents. The meeting pledged itself to subscribe the necessary amount, towards which £50 was raised in the room. A committee to forward the movement was formed, Mr. Stevens being appointed secretary. When a commencement is made with the oval it is expected that work will be found for about 25 men. (12)

Progress was reported in the September of 1928 - 

Work on Spotswood Recreation Reserve Towards the relief of unemployment at Spotswood, the president of the Spotswood Citizens' League (Mr J. H. Read) has sent the Williamstown council a second Instalment of £175 raised by the residents for work on the new Spotswood recreation reserve. A number of unemployed is now fencing the ground and planting pine trees. (13)  

In July 1931, a pavilion was erected - Three local men, Messrs. Ball, Pierce and Hodgson, have secured the contract for erecting and renovating the pavilion on Spotswood Reserve, which was recently transferred from Williamstown cricket ground. Work was commenced on Tuesday of this week, and when completed will mean a great improvement. (14)

Finally in October 1932, 15 years after Carlo's report,  it could be announced that the reserve was opened - 

Constructed at a cost of £4710 by the council, a cricket ground recreation reserve and children's playground at The Avenue, Spotswood, were officially opened by the Mayor of Williamstown (Cr. T. Briggs) last Saturday afternoon. A cricket match was later played on the ground between Clifton Hill A.N.A. and Spotswood Clubs. The oval covers the site of a famous quarry. About £700 was raised by the Spotswood Citizens' League towards the cost of the improvements. The Mayor said that £4710/16/6 had been spent on the reserve, £3855 for filling, levelling and tree planting, £230 on the playground, £255 for fencing, £15 for band rotunda, and £355 for sewering. (15)

As for the other aspects of Carlo's plans - the bowling green, croquet lawn, rockeries, the palm trees, the lake and the associated jetties, rotunda, and refreshment room and the Caretaker's cottage - I have no evidence that they were ever constructed. The Spotswood Reserve was renamed the Donald McLean Reserve in October 1946. All I know about Donald McLean is that he was listed in the Electoral Rolls at 29 The Avenue, Spotswood and that his occupation was a fitter. He died October 2, 1967, aged 87. His wife was Emma Kate Sleap, whom he married in 1907, and who died in Perth on February 3, 1970, aged 89.

Finally - I can find no photographs of the Reserve. 

Trove list - I have created a list of articles connected to Carlo and the Spotswood Reserve, access it here 

Footnotes

(1) Cr Stephen Byrne- read his 11921 obituary in the Williamstown Chronicle of May 7, 1921, here. 

(2) The Age, February 23, 1910,  see here.

(3) Williamstown Advertiser, July 8, 1916, see here.

(4) Williamstown Chronicle, July 29, 1916, see here.

(5) Yarraville Weekly News, May 19, 1917, see here.

(6) Ibid

(7) Carlo's report - Williamstown Advertiser, May 26, 1917, see here.

(8) Carlo's costings - Williamstown Advertiser, May 26, 1917, see here.

(9) Letters to the Editor of the Williamstown Advertiser on the issue - from June 9, 1917 see here and here; from June 16, 1917, see here.

(10) Williamstown Advertiser, June 9, 1917, see here.
(11) Williamstown Chronicle, February 6, 1926, see here.

(12) The Age, July 19, 1928, see here.

(13) The Herald, September 8, 1928, see here.

(14) Williamstown Advertiser, July 18, 1931, see here.

(15) Williamstown Chronicle, October 8, 1932, see here.

(16) Williamstown Advertiser, October 19 1946, see here.

(17) Electoral Rolls on Ancestry and Probate; Indexes to the Victorian Birth, Deaths and Marriages; Administration Files (VPRS28) at Public Records Office of Victoria.

Did Carlo Play Sport?

Enrico, Carlo's son was a talented sportsman who played cricket, football, tennis and lacrosse at his school Melbourne Grammar and when he lived near Kyneton, before he enlisted. You can read about this here. Sadly Enrico did not return to his farm as he was Killed in Action at Pozieres on July 29, 1916.   

I wondered if Carlo had any connection to sports, even though I don't know where he would have found the time. He was the Vice President of the Public Works Department Rifle Club, you can read about that here. He also engaged professional golfer, Richard 'Dick' Banks to lay out a nine-hole golf course on Mount Buffalo, near the Chalet (see here)  The golf course opened in February 1911, but I have no evidence that Carlo actually played golf. 

I searched Trove to see if there were references to Carlo playing cricket, football, tennis or other sports, but all articles referred to young Enrico, not the senior Carlo. However,  there were two references connected to Carlo and improvements to cricket ovals - the South Melbourne and St Kilda Cricket Grounds. The St Kilda Cricket Ground is also called the Junction Oval. 

The Emerald Hill Record on December 21, 1907 reported on the South Melbourne Ground -
Mr. Henry Skinner, president of the South Melbourne Cricket Club, entertained a large company on the ground on Monday last, after an inspection of the improvements recently made. Amongst those who took a particular interest in the progress made by the club were Mr. Mackey (Minister of Lands), Mr. Mackinnon, M.L.A. (president of the Victorian Cricket Association), the Mayor of South Melbourne (Cr. W. O. Strangward), Cr. Baragwanath, Mr. Catani and Mr. Allan (Albert Park Committee of Management), Mr. E. Bean and Mr. H. H. Rush (Board of Control), Mr. E. D. Heather (secretary V.C.A.), and Mr. P. Knuckey (president Fitzroy C.C.). 

The gathering was of a very friendly character, and complimentary reference was made by Mr. Mackey, Mr. Mackinnon, Mr. Catani, and the cricket representatives to the energetic and capable manner in which the president and committee were conducting the affairs of the ground. All the representatives of the various bodies who spoke paid a very high tribute to the worth of Mr. Skinner, the president, and a special toast of his health was proposed. The improvements were described in detail in our last issue (1) 

As the article noted, the previous issue of the Emerald Hill Record, described some of the extensive improvements to the ground, and the report began - 

If anyone had predicted a few years ago the improvements which have been made at the South Melbourne Cricket Ground during the last two or three years, he would have been laughed to scorn, yet we have now thanks to an energetic, fearless, and enterprising president, a cricket ground with appointments inferior to only one or two in the Commonwealth. The ground, with its picturesque approaches, has had its natural beauty enhanced during the last couple of years by the formation of bowling greens, rockeries, and the erection of necessary buildings, till the casual visitor, on entering the gates, halts in surprise and wonderment at the rapid changes being made for the comfort and convenience of members and visitors.

The report continued - Last year the outer ground was extended, and the bank raised to provide accommodation for 25,000 spectators. The raising of the bank used up 5800 yards of soil, and as it is intended to immediately form the portion between the present bank and the football grandstand, and raise the bank another two feet, another 3000 yards of filling will have, to be provided. When this work is complete, the ground will accommodate 40,000 people. When endeavors were made to have important premiership football matches played on the South Melbourne ground, the League members complained that they could not see, side clubs objected to the depression in the ground on the eastern side, the committee recognised that there was force in the contention, and as members seated near the pavilion also complained that they could not see the football game when it was worked into the corner, it was decided to regrade the playing arena and raise the ground and the fence. To do the work, 2800 yards of soil were required, and involved an expenditure of £300.

Then complaints were made of overcrowding in the football stand, and the committee, alive to the growing importance of the ground, and actuated by a desire to meet the demands of a rapidly increasing membership in both the cricket and football clubs, decided to raise the football gymnasium, and provide a smokers' pavilion. With the assistance of Mr. A. E. Aughtie, the honorary surveyor, plans were prepared, and a contract let for the work. The tender of Mr. M. Sorenson was accepted, and that gentleman immediately set to work. The building is 100ft. X 30ft., and every care was necessary in lifting the huge structure to the height required, at the same time moving it back to the fence. With the aid of jacks, the building was raised inch by inch, and supports put in, till it stood 10ft. 3in. higher than its previous level. Then a brick foundation was constructed underneath, and the building now rests on a solid brick wall 14 inches thick. The entrances to the building remain unchanged, and at each end a stairway 6ft. wide, constructed of heavy jarrah timber, provide means of ingress and egress.

In the front of the gymnasium, an iron-roofed verandah carried 32 galleried seats, which will give accommodation to about 500 people, and a splendid view of the ground. Underneath well-appointed lavatories are provided, and nothing left undone that makes for the convenience of the public. Lavatories and retiring rooms have been constructed beneath the football stand. (2)

The report then describes the other minor improvements and notes that it was estimated that £6000 will have been spent on the ground during the last three years. (3)  I can see why Carlo was impressed by both the works and the manner in which the works were carried out - as they were to the advantage of the general public, were aesthetically pleasing and completed in a timely manner.

South Melbourne Cricket Ground, c.  1908. 

The new work, as described above, is shown in the photo. The middle structure had been raised ten feet, with heavy jarrah stairways erected at each end. The building on the right is the gymnasium with the new iron-roofed verandah, providing spectator seating,

State Library of Victoria image  H90.160/911

The next year, on May 8, 1908, The Argus reported on the St Kilda Oval improvements -
Extensive Improvements - During the last few months the committee of the St. Kilda Cricket Club has effected great in provinces to the ground, at a cost of over £800. The playing space has been enclosed with a new fence, which now been erected at the foot of the old bicycle track, which has been done away with. The result is that the accommodation for spectators has been greatly increased. A big embankment has been built all round, the ground, so that thousands of people will now be able to watch in comfort the sports being played in the oval. Three new asphalt tennis courts have been laid down, at a cost of over £200, and the lawns have been relaid. All the buildings have been painted and put in order, and the result is very satisfactory. At present the St. Kilda ground is one of the best appointed around Melbourne, and should be a more popular sports resort than ever. 

In order to let the trustees of Albert-park and others interested see what has been done, the committee of the St. Kilda Cricket Club yesterday afternoon invited a number of people to inspect the ground. There was a good attendance, including Messrs. Mackay, M.L.A., (Minister for Lands), M'Cutcheon, M.L.A., Councillor Jacoby (mayor of St. Kilda), and other councillors, Messrs. J M. Reed (surveyor-general), Catani (Public Works department, and one of the trustees), H. O. Allan (secretary to the trustees), P. Knuckey (president Fitzroy Cricket Club), and a number of representatives of other clubs. Apologies were received from Mr. Donald Mackinnon, M.L.A., (president Victorian Cricket Association), and Mr. Agar Wynne, M.R H. After the visitors had inspected the ground and the improvements, Mr. M'Cutcheon, M.L.A., thanked those present for their attendance and said that the committee intended to still further improve the ground, and make it worthy of the district. All that the ground earned would go back to it in the way of improvements. 

Mr. Mackey also spoke, and those who knew what work had been done congratulated the committee and their secretary (Mr. G. H. Inskip) on the success of their efforts. (4)

The above article implies Carlo was a Trustee of the St Kilda Cricket Ground, however at the time as it was noted in The Argus,  the St. Kilda Cricket Club holds its ground under a permissive occupancy from the trustees of the Albert-park (5). H.O. Allan was the secretary of the Albert Park Trust (6) and Carlo was one of the Trustees. 

My research so far has not turned up any evidence that Carlo actually participated in any organised team sports, but that he did have an interest in establishing and improving  sports grounds. 

Footnotes
(1) Emerald Hill Record, December 21, 1907, see here. 

(2) Emerald Hill Record, December 14, 1907, see here. 

(3) Ibid
(4) The Argus, May 8, 1908 see here. 
(6) The Argus, January 18, 1902, see here.
(6) Emerald Hill Record, May 30, 1908, see here. There is more on H.O. Allan, here. 

Harry Abbott, Public Works Department Overseer

Carlo Catani worked with many people during his career with the Public Works Department (PWD), everyone from the Premier of  Victoria to the labourers who carried out the physical work on the PWD projects such as draining swamps, constructing roads and building bridges. I came across this short article from the Warragul Guardian  in February 1897, of Carlo presenting a gift to a Mr Abbott -

Koo-Wee-Rup.  Mr. Abbott, who superintended the drainage works on the Kooweerup Swamp for about four years, but who is now acting in a similar capacity on the Yarra improvement works, was on Saturday presented with a handsome gold albert. The presentation was made by Mr Catani, engineer of the Public Works department, in Mr Leithhead's store, who explained that the gift came from the residents and settlers, who had recognised his gentlemanly qualities. (1)

Who was Mr Henry 'Harry' Abbott? He was an Overseer working on Public Works Department projects and I have  found these other references (reproduced below)  to him working on the Koo Wee Rup Swamp, the Yarra Improvement Works, the Domain Drive, the road over Mount Fatigue from Foster to Boolarra, and work on cleaning out the dock at the Echuca wharf. (2) 

February 1894  Koo Wee Rup Swamp

The Wilderness Reclaimed  Flying Trip to Koo-Wee-Rup Swamp by 'A Surprised Visitor" - Steps have been taken to wards the formation of a Progressive Association, and, according to a notice I saw posted on the paymaster's tent (Mr. H. Abbott), its objects are "to watch over the general interests of the settlement, and to take such steps as will tend to its advance, development and progress." (3)

April 1896  Koo Wee Rup Swamp

Cranbourne Police Court. Monday, March 30. Before Mr. Smallman, P.M. 

Bockholt v. Wm. Norton, Board of Land and Works garnishees.- Order for 41 4s. and 10s; costs.

Same v. John W. Norton, Board of Land and Works garnishees. - Order for £2 14s. 9d. and 15s. costs.-Mr. Coburn for Bockholt, appeared to apply for orders and Mr. Abbott (the overseer at the Swamp works), appeared to represent the Board. (4)

February 1897  Yarra Improvement Works

At the City Court yesterday, Robert M'Intyre was prosecuted for stealing £3 15a., the moneys of his mates, whose wages he had drawn. Accused pleaded guilty. William Hennings said he was a laborer employed at the Yarra improvement works. Accused, witness and two other men named Driver and Duffy were working together on the butty gang system. They appointed M'Intyre their ganger and entrusted him with the drawing of the money that fell due to them. On the last occasion he drew £3 15s., but did not divide it among them. On previous occasions he had always handed over the money when he obtained it. When they went to his house to see him he was the worse for drink. He said he would pay the money as soon as he could earn it. Michael Duffy gave similar evidence. Both witnesses stated that they knew nothing wrong of accused, and had no complaint to make of him previous to this. Accused said that when he drew the money he had to go some distance before he could see his mates. On the way he called at a hotel, and lost all the money. He had a wife and child to keep, and, if the bench would allow him a month's time, he would pay all the men what he owed them. Henry Abbott, overseer of the works, said accused had told him he was going to make good the amount. The bench let accused off with a month's imprisonment, for which he humbly expressed thanks, his wife at the same time leaving the court weeping with their infant. (5)

July 1900  Boolarra to Foster Road

Foster - On Wednesday and Thursday labourers arrived in Foster and Toora to commence operations in opening up tracks, &c., to gain access to the large areas of Crown lands in the Mount Fatigue reserve. A start was made on Thursday under Mr. Abbott, the overseer. (6)

September 1900  Boolarra to Foster Road

Foster - Owing to disagreement and dissatisfaction with the overseer in charge of the unemployed on the Mount Best and Mount Fatigue roads in Upper Toora, the whole of the men went out on strike on Wednesday morning. The men complain that sufficiently detailed assistance is not given in laying out the various sections of the work for the several gangs, and that the prices fixed for the work are inadequate to enable a man to earn a decent wage. Mr. Harry Abbott, overseer of the Foster gang, has received instructions from Mr. Catani, the engineer of Public Works, to accompany the paymaster on Thursday evening, and endeavour to smooth over the differences. (7)

November1900  Boolarra to Foster Road

Foster - Mr. Harry Abbott, overseer of the works being carried cut by the Public Works department in opening up the Mount Fatigue reserve, received notice of removal on Wednesday, and left immediately. (8)

April 1901 Domain Drive

Mr H. Abbott, Overseer-in-charge

The Argus, April 16, 1901 https://trove.nla.gov.au/newspaper/article/10545705

Government Domain  Drive went through the Domain, from Government House Gates to South Yarra. (9)

Government Domain Drive, is labelled as South Yarra Drive on this c. 1911 map.

Botanic Gardens. Photo-lithographed at the Department of Lands and Survey, Melbourne, 

by W.J. Butson and drawn by F.S. Hilcke, c. 1911.

State Library of Victoria http://handle.slv.vic.gov.au/10381/166011

December 1902   Koo Wee Rup Swamp

The Workless - Koo-Wee-Rup Complaints. Official Reply. 

The Minister of Public Works, having called for a report concerning the complaints of two of the unemployed, known as the Leongatha men, made in the "Herald" on the 5th last., has received it from the Inspector-General. Mr Davidson encloses reports from the Engineer of Reclamation Works, Mr C. Catani, and the overseer, Mr H. Abbott.

The gist of these reports is as follows:- 1. That the men were met at the station by Mr Connors. 2. The cart (or the conveyance of their swags was engaged by the overseer, and the department will have to pay for it. 3. The price offered these men. viz., 5d per yard in peat, without wheeling, in a small drain, is the largest paid in Koo-wee-rup Swamp at present. 4. The local men were never offered the work at 6d per yard or any other price, but they have taken it since these men left at 5d. and were very glad to get it, as they will make over 7s per day. 6. There are now only five Leongatha men left on the job. 6. The other 22 men who have left will cost the department - Twenty-two passes at 3s, 5d, L3 15s 2d; food for 22 men guaranteed, L5 10s; tools for 22 men, say, at 3a, L3 6s; tents for 22 man guaranteed, say, 2s, L2 4s; cartage of swags, L1. Total, L15 15s 2d.

Mr Abbott, in his report, says, with regard to the delay complained of by some men in getting to work, "If they had not wasted time over the beer they had had, they could have started a bit earlier." He adds: "The five men who are at work are making 3s 6d per day. They are not improving very much, as they are unsuitable for the class of work. I have got six good men (Gray's gang) in the drain with them, who will make over seven shillings per day." (10)

February 1915  Echuca Dock Works

An inquest on the body of Thomas Boland, who died suddenly at the wharf dock on Wednesday afternoon, was held yesterday by Mr M. O'Bryan, Deputy Coroner. Deceased was employed with others at excavation work at the dock, and collapsed during the afternoon. He was removed to the shade of the wharf, and although a doctor was called in he expired......Henry Abbott, overseer at the works, stated that deceased commenced work at the dock on Tuesday afternoon. He did not complain of being ill, and nothing unusual about him was noticed. At about 3.30 on Wednesday witness was checking the number of men with the time book, and found one of the workmen missing. He made inquiry, and Boland was pointed out, lying in a shade at the wharf. Witness examined him, and as he appeared very ill sent for the doctor and the police. Dr. Ebsworth arrived and attended to the patient, and remained with him until he died about half an hour later. Witness had not previously known the deceased......The Deputy Coroner found that Thomas Boland died at Echuca on the 17th day of February, 1915 from heat apoplexy, as per the doctor's evidence. (11)

So who was Harry Abbott? I don't know.  It appears by the 1894 entry, that he was initially a paymaster, and thus likely worked with George Clowser, who I have written about here. You would have to assume Harry was born no later than 1870, given the level of responsibility of his roles, so to start, I looked for the deaths of any Henry or Harry Abbotts  who would have been born in a suitable time frame and came up with the following.  A Henry Abbott died in 1934, but he was with the Melbourne & Metropolitan Board Works from 1884 as a Register of Meters and later an Inspector; another Henry Abbott died in 1935 but he worked for the Colac Shire Council for over 40 years; another died in 1937, but he was a Contractor (builder) and another in 1943, but he was a Grocer; another still died in 1946 and he was a Bendigo business man.  There was a Harry Abbott who died in 1928, but he was a farmer and one who died in 1947, but he was a Managing Director. (12) So, no satisfactory matches there and  it's more than possible he died interstate or overseas. 

We do, however, have a photograph of him, taken in 1912, along with his other Public Works Department (PWD) colleagues. I will concede that there may have been another Abbott in the PWD, but I like to think it's our Harry Abbott.

Officers of the Public Works Department (State).

Photographer: Algernon Darge.

Mr Abbott is third from the right, in the third row from the front and 

Carlo Catani is in the second row from the front, fifth from the right.

Punch June 20, 1912 http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article175618291

Front Row.- Messrs. Mackay, Dimelow, Sawyer, Couve, Morris, Robinson, Hassett, Swanton, Whitley, Bult, Cutler.

Second Row. - Messrs. Harvey, Kerr, Brown,  Brittingham, Watson (Chief Architect), E. T. Drake (Secretary), W. H.Edgar (Minister of Public Works), W. Davidson (Inspector-General), C. Catani (Chief Engineer) C. Clowser (Acting-Chief Clerk), Jamieson, Austin, M'Kenzie.

Third Row.- Messrs. Cartwright, Gibbs, Stevens, Klingender, Campbell, Kennison, Cazaly, Cook, Fricke, M'lntosh, Thomas, Robertson, M'Cormick, Ridoutt, Hall, Neal, Moore, Searle, Clarke, Keeley, Couchman, Abbott, Simpson. Spiers.

Fourth Row. - Messrs. Pooley, Hooks, Hewitt, Tingate, Chambers, Pike, Cobby, Greenless, Glass, Campbell, Lewie, Neylon, Matthews, Kennedy, Symons.

Back Row. - Messrs. Gleeson, Lynar, Coney, Fulton, O'Sullivan, Connelly, Grant, Smart, Dewar, Gluth, Clarke, Pollock, Mather, Doig, Bult, Birchell, Hendy. 

If you  have any information on Harry Abbott, Public Works Department Engineer and a man of gentlemanly qualities, I would love to hear from you.

Footnotes

(1) Warragul Guardian, February 12, 1897, see here.

(2) Koo Wee Rup Swamp - see https://carlocatani.blogspot.com/2018/10/koo-wee-rup-swamp.html; Yarra Reclamation Works https://victoriancollections.net.au/stories/carlo-catani-an-engineering-star-over-victoria/a-straighter-yarra; Also this from The Age, April 22, 1901 (see here) - During last week a considerable number of men were provided with employment through the Government labor bureau. The officer in charge of the bureau reports that 30 laborers were sent to the Colac-Beech Forest railway works; 40 to the Lillydale-Warburton line, including 20 local men; 20 to the water works at Birchip; 6 to the Collingwood railway; and 75 to the Yarra improvement works and the Domain drive. At these metropolitan works the men are receiving only a fortnight's engagement, in order that those who state that they are in destitute circumstances may take their turn at earning something within a convenient distance of their homes. During the week employment was also found for three pitcher setters on the Domain drive, and for four pitcher setters at the Moonee Ponds Creek. Nine stonebreakers were sent to Epping and Preston at the request of the local shire council. Of 60 men registered for town work 10 accepted and 50 declined offers of work in the country. Domain Drive - see Footnote 9. 

Foster to Bolarra Road - https://carlocatani.blogspot.com/2019/06/carlo-and-boolarra-to-foster-road.html; 

Echuca Wharf - I will write about this one day, but this was the project - Ballarat Courier, February 10, 1915, see here. 

(3) Warragul Guardian, February 6, 1894, see here.

(4) South Bourke & Mornington Journal, April 1, 1896, see here. 

(4) The Age, February 23, 1897, see here.  

(5) The Argus, July 21, 1900, see here.  

(6) The Argus, September 7, 1900, see here.  

(7) The Argus, November 2, 1900, see here.  

(8) The Argus, April 16, 1901, see here.  

(9) The Age, May 11, 1901, see here.

(10) The Herald, December 13, 1902, see here.  

(11) Echuca and Moama Advertiser, February 20, 1915, see here.   

(12) Indexes to the Victorian Births, Deaths and Marriages; Electoral Rolls on Ancestry; death notices in the newspapers on Trove.

Carlo and the Fisken Street Bridge at Bacchus Marsh

This is the story of the bridge over the Werribee River at Fisken Street, Bacchus Marsh.

At a Bacchus Marsh Shire meeting held in June 1907, the Shire Engineer reported that  - On 25th May, Mr. Catani, an engineer from Public Works Department, inspected the river Werribee from Fisken to Grant street in connection with the erection of a bridge. His report is not yet to hand. (1)

Carlo's report was presented to the Council on July 8, 1907 - 

Report respecting proposed bridge at Fisken street:--I visited Bacchus Marsh on Saturday, 25th May, and there met the President and the Engineer of the Shire, who drove me to the site of proposed bridge. At this place the river used to be only about 60ft. wide, and was spanned by a footbridge. It is now double the original width, and the depth has also considerably increased; and the footbridge has disappeared. Owing to the existence of a clay bank, and the existence of some trees on the south bank, the current has been diverted, and now infringes on the north bank, doing great damage to Mr.
M'Grath's property, where a vertical face of about 18ft. deep of rich but loose alluvial soil for the eight chains north of the site of the proposed bridge now exists. This vertical face, unless some effective protection is devised, at once, is certain to suffer more damage with the next flood. In the event of the Council deciding to erect a bridge in this locality there would be no advantage, in my opinion, of departing from the line of the road. A suitable bridge, in timber, meeting all requirements, could be built for £800. It would be wise, before the Shire undertook this work to obtain a complete indemnity from
Mr. M'Grath, and an undertaking that he would protect his frontage with timber and plantations to the satisfaction of the Council. Unless this is done, in a large flood the river might scour a new channel behind the north abutment of the proposed bridge; as it may be open to Mr. M'Grath to plead that the obstruction created by the bridge is the cause of the damage that his land is certain to suffer in the event of a heavy flood taking place. Signed, C. CATANI. (2)

Fisken Street footbridge, Werribee River, Bacchus Marsh, c. 1890-1905.

State Library of Victoria image H92.320/252

Action on Carlo's report was postponed to another time as no local ward councillors were present; and in fact there was no action at all for years. In January 1909, the Bacchus Marsh Express reported that -
In July, 1907, the Bacchus Marsh Shire Council received a report from Mr. C. Catani, Government Engineer, respecting the Fisken street bridge, and its consideration was postponed. It has never been touched since. Now that the east end of the town is reviving, and irrigation water may get there next year, the Shire Council should have Mr. Catani's report brought on gain. He advised that "a suitable bridge, in timber, meeting all requirements, could be built, on the site of the present road, for £800, and there would be no advantage in departing from that site, but as Mr. M'Grath's vertical bank, 18ft. deep, immediately above the bridge site, on its northern side, is certain to suffer unless some effective protection is devised, at once, he should carry out that work with timber and plantations, and indemnify the Council from any claim for damages." Both the bridge and the bank protection have been too long delayed. Now is the time to consider both. (3)

There was still no action and in November 1909 the Bacchus Marsh Express again reported on the issue - The ratepayers at the east end of Bacchus Marsh have only themselves to blame for the contemptuous rejection of all requests to have a bridge built at Fisken street. "They don't want it," they are told; and certainly they don't ask for it as they should do, with a cheque in one hand and a petition in the other. There is no need to go to the Public Works Department about a bridge in line of Fisken street. A Government engineer (Mr. Catani) reported on 25th May, 1907, and said a bridge could be built for £800. He said nothing about sheet piling, but said that Mr. M'Grath would have to hold the Council blameless for any falling in of his sheer down bank, which he should protect with timber and plantation to the satisfaction of the Council. (4)

Fisken Street footbridge over the Werribee River, c. 1890-1905. (5)  Photographer: N.J. Caire.

State Library of Victoria image H2014.184/177. This image has been cropped, see original here http://handle.slv.vic.gov.au/10381/288377

The need for a bridge over the river at Fisken Street was an on-going issue for the people of Bacchus Marsh. There had been a footbridge there since at least 1870 (6); in 1896 the Shire Engineer, Mr D. A. Little (7) noted that a bridge suitable for all traffic could be erected; he is reported as saying-  

I think the bridge itself, sufficiently strong for all traffic, could be built for £700; but the cost of protecting the banks must be added to my former estimate. The estimate in all would then be-Bridge, £700; sheeting, £150; metalling Fisken street, Bacchus Marsh side, £190; metalling road on Parwan side, from bridge to station, £385; total, £1,425. (8)

A vocal supporter of the bridge at this time was Mr Patrick McGrath, as reported in the Bacchus Marsh Express in December 1896 - 

Mr. P. M'Grath said he had uphill work with Fisken street bridge. They were told by a man who wrote to the Express that the bridge was not wanted. He could tell the east side of Parwan, and all the township people, that if they do not get the bridge they will lose their properties. There used to be a school and a church in that street, and there was a foot bridge there for 40 years. There must be some mystery in not having a proper traffic bridge there. That street had been neglected. There was no footpath, no trees, and everything was taken to the other parts of the Shire. That street was used by 200 children. Let them look at Mr. Wood's wine and spirit store closed up with grass growing at the door; in the centre of the township. The old post-office store closed, and what was the cause? The people had been hunted up Stamford hill, and the old township would have to follow them. The township had public buildings in the Shire hall and the Mechanics' Institute and Manning's hotel, a credit to any town in the colony, and

were they going to lose them all for the want of a bridge in Fisken street? If the Council would only put on the minutes what money it wanted as a contribution to the bridge he would guarantee to collect it, or do his best at any rate. He could get all the money wanted to put up the bridge on loan. He proposed to collect £150 at once. (9)

Ten years later, nothing had been done and Mr McGrath wrote the following letter to the Bacchus Marsh Express in March 1906  

I have seen paragraphs in the Express about a traffic bridge in Fisken street, and as I am mentioned as one of the promoters of it I think it is only fair that I should explain some of the reasons why the bridge should be there. When the Corporation yards were started it was understood that there would be a traffic bridge in Fisken street to take the traffic of cattle, sheep, and horses, from the main street to the Corporation yards. Anyone walking in Grant street at 9 o'clock, and seeing the traffic of milk carts going to the two factories, and buggies end cabs, and the footpath lined with people going to the station, also children going to school, will see that the Shire Council, or even the Police, should not allow a mob of bullocks or flocks of sheep to be driven among that traffic. The remedy is to take those cattle and sheep across a bridge at Fisken street, either to the saleyards or to the railway station, or the roads on the south of the Werribee. The residents at the eastern end of the Shire, on both sides of the river, have refrained too long from pressing their claim to a traffic bridge in so central a position as Fisken street. There is traffic enough for two bridges, and it is not safe to be depending upon only one road across the river to the railway station. (10)

Patrick McGrath was a farmer at Parwan, who was born in Limerick, Ireland and arrived in Melbourne in 1854. When he died in 1913, at the age of 87 his obituary noted that  Mr. M'Grath was a member of the old Water Trust, and a great advocate of Fisken street traffic bridge. He also took a prominent part in St. Patrick's Society. He helped the Farmers' Society wonderfully in its early years in its present yards, when every supporter was most valuable...A very worthy colonist, who did his share to help all local institutions. (11)

Women walking on rope suspension bridge, probably the Fisken Street Bridge over the Werribee River at Bacchus Marsh. 

This may be 1906 as in September 1906 it was reported that - In the Werribee and Lerderderg rivers there was yesterday a higher flood than that of last week. The bank on the north side of the river at Fisken street fell in, and the suspension bridge collapsed. (12) 

State Library of Victoria image H92.320/177

It was a year after Mr McGrath's March 1906 letter that Carlo inspected the site, and wrote his report,  as you read above. But even Carlo could not get the Bacchus Marsh Shire to budge on this issue, even though it came before Council on a number of occasions. (13)  

There was a footbridge there, as we noted before, from around 1870, which collapsed in 1906 (14), but was obviously replaced as in September 1916, the Melton Express reported that the residents had again lost their pedestrian bridge at Fisken Street -

The swing bridge over the Werribee river at Fisken street was wrecked by the flood last September, and no attempt has been made to provide a crossing of any kind for the number of people who used the bridge as a means of communication with the town. The sole reason why nothing has been done is that the Shire is as low down in funds as the bed of the river; but it could, at least trim the banks, and provide two or three planks, with a handrail, with the necessary notice that persons cross at their own risk. It would serve the purpose until funds are available to erect a permanent structure, either for foot traffic or vehicular traffic-the latter preferred. (15)

The destruction of the suspension bridge proved to be a blessing in disguise for the Bacchus Marsh community as Council finally had their engineer, Mr S. Le Cocq (16), draw up plans for a new bridge - and in December 1917, ten years after Carlo presented his report on the matter, the Melton Express could finally report some good news - 

The long-agitated for Fisken street bridge is now open for traffic. For a number of years a suspension bridge for foot passengers only, has served the purpose here; and a number of times has it fallen a victim to floods, the final being in Sept. of last year. The Bacchus Marsh Shire Council had the alternative of re-erecting this suspension bridge, or launching out on a traffic bridge; the latter was decided on, and the present structure the result. The work has been well carried out by Contractor Jenkin, who also erected the concrete bridge on the main road. The Fisken street bridge is 206 feet long (an extension of 44 feet on the original contract), and 12 feet wide. Cost, about £600. The gravel beams have yet to be tarred, and the hand-rails painted; after which it will have a more finished appearance. If floods will only keep in the background, the structure should stand for years. The bridge will prove a great convenience, especially in diverting the cattle traffic from the main streets, when travelling to and from the railway station and market yards. (17)

Sadly, Patrick McGrath never got to see the Fisken Street bridge, and Carlo had by then retired from the Public Works Department (18). Also, sadly, I cannot find any photographs of the bridge.

In 1934, the bridge was condemned and closed to traffic for a number of months for repairs (19). Then, eighteen years later at about midnight on Monday, June 16, 1952 (20) the Fisken Street bridge was wrecked by a flooded Werribee River, along with the Parwan Creek bridge on the Woolpack Road.  This meant that the only remaining bridge for north-south traffic over the Werribee River is the Grant Street (Geelong Road) bridge the south abutment of which was seriously undermined by the flood. (21)

In October 1952, the Country Roads Board gave the Bacchus Marsh Shire a grant for bridge and road repairs but as Mr Bond, the Shire Secretary noted - 

The problem in connection with the Fisken Street and Parwan Creek bridges would be to get them built. There was a dearth of bridge contractors and skilled laborers, as so many bridges had been damaged throughout the State. This problem would not have to be faced for some six or eight months, until elaborate plans had been drawn. The new Fisken Street bridge would be of steel and concrete, 12 feet wide, with wooden decking. (22)

By November 1954 it was reported that slow but steady progress was being made on the new bridge; I don't have an opening date, but I presume it was in 1955 (23). It seems to have been replaced in 1979 by the existing bridge. (24)

The Fisken Street bridge under construction in July 1954. 

The date of the destruction of the old bridge is incorrectly listed as February 1951; it was actually June 1952.

Bacchus Marsh Express July 17, 1954 https://trove.nla.gov.au/newspaper/article/262633348

Trove list - I have created a list of articles on the Fisken Street bridge, access it here.

Footnotes

(1) Bacchus Marsh Express, June 15, 1907, see here.

(2) Bacchus Marsh Express, July 13, 1907, see here.

(3) Bacchus Marsh Express, January 9, 1909, see here.

(4) Bacchus Marsh Express, November 13, 1909, see here.

(5) Identified as the Fisken Street Bridge by the Bacchus Marsh Historical Society - they have the photo on their Facebook page. The State Library of Victoria has it labelled as Views Around Bacchus Marsh.

(6) West Bourke & South Grant Guardian, January 8, 1870, see here. The Bacchus Marsh and  Maddingley Road District was asking for tenders to repair and strengthen the Werribee footbridge at Fisken Street. 

(7) David Armstrong Little was appointed the Bacchus Marsh Shire Secretary and Engineer in 1886; in 1909 he was appointed to the same position to the Shire of Melton. This was an acting role due to the death of the previous incumbent,  Mr James Dickinson. Mr Little resigned from both roles in 1914. when he was appointed to the same role at the Shire of Werribee. He died in 1926, aged 62. See various articles in my Trove list, here, and his obituary in the Werribee Shire Banner, April 8, 1926,  here.

(8) Bacchus Marsh Express, November 14, 1896, see here.

(9) Bacchus Marsh Express, December 19, 1896, see here.

(10) Bacchus Marsh Express, March 17, 1906, see here. 

(11) Bacchus Marsh Express, July 5, 1913, see here.

(12) Bacchus Marsh Express, September 15, 1906,  see here.

(13) See articles in my Trove list, here. 

(14) Bacchus Marsh Express, September 15, 1906,  see here.

(15) Melton Express, February 10, 1917, see here.

(16) Samuel Le Cocq - appointed in 1916 as the Bacchus Marsh Shire Engineer; he had previously been the Town Clerk for the Borough of Portland and before that worked at the Bellarine Shire, the Lexton Shire and the Charlton Shire. He left Bacchus Marsh in April 1919. He left Australia in 1926 to return to the Channel Islands, where he was born. Source: see articles in my Trove list, here. 

(17) Melton Express, December 1, 1917, see here.

(18) https://carlocatani.blogspot.com/2022/11/richard-fiddes-brown-1876-1936.html

(19) See articles in my Trove list, here. 

(20) Bacchus Marsh Express, June 21, 1952, see here.

(21) Bacchus Marsh Express, July 19, 1952, see here.

(22) Bacchus Marsh Express, October 18, 1952, see here.

(23) Bacchus Marsh Express, November 13, 1954, see here.

(24) This is a screen shot from a You Tube video - Fisken Street bridge pipeline replacement by Southern Rural Water - 

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_nR8nJff-OA

The Health of Carlo

On Monday April 1, 1912 The Minister of Public Works, who was visiting Warburton for the purpose of opening the road to Mt. Donna Buang, presided at the opening ceremony in connection with a sanatorium recently established at the township. The institution, which is a comfortable two-storied building, is situated on the hill side less than a mile from the Warburton railway station. It is fitted up with all modern improvements, including electric light and a modern electric bath. In addition, its unrivalled surroundings, and fresh mountain air give it many advantage's as a place of recuperation for those in need of rest after illness. Its authors are the sect of Seventh Day Adventists, who have a settlement at Warburton, and who have established - according to the statement made by the manager, Mr. A. W. Anderson - no fewer than 74 similar institutions in different parts of the world. Mr. Edgar, in his capacity as Minister of Health, and Dr. Robertson, on behalf of the Public Health department, thanked Mr. Anderson, for the hospitality extended to the visitors, and wished the institution every success. (1)

The Sanitorium at Warburton, opened by Mr Edgar, at an event attended by Carlo Catani.

Photographer: Rose Stereograph Co. State Library of Victoria image H32492/1696

Mr Anderson was reported as saying that he had been married for 20 years and had never required a Doctor. (2). In response, Carlo Catani, who was also an invited guest, remarked that he had been in the State for 36 years without having to consult a doctor. (3) This indicates that Carlo was remarkedly healthy and robust. 

The healthy Mr Catani

Lilydale Express, April 5, 1912 http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article258396504

I wondered who the Doctor was who signed Carlo's death certificate when he died at the age of 66 at his Blessington Street home, on July 20, 1918. As the Prahran Telegraph reported - 

A few days previously he was standing on a scaffolding superintending the erection of additions to his home, when he was suddenly seized with illness, from which he never recovered. (4)

The official cause of death, as listed on the death certificate, was Chronic Nephritis and Cerebral Thrombosis and the doctor who attended him was Dr R. Morton. This was, I believe Dr Reginald Lonsdale Morton of 14 Fitzroy Street, St Kilda. (5)  As a matter of interest, Dr Morton was a keen cricketer, a member of the St Kilda Cricket Club and President of the Victorian Cricket Association (6). In the section on the death certificate - Duration of last illness - there was a question mark, so it does not appear that Carlo had been treated by Dr Morton previously for the the causes of his death. Perhaps then, Carlo may have been able to boast that he did not need to  consult a doctor for 42 years (or perhaps like some people, he just ignored his symptoms).

Dr Morton also attended Catherine Catani  when she died on August 6, 1925, also at 39 Blessington Street, St Kilda. She was 68 years old and her cause of death was Senile Anaemia Myocarditis, the duration of which had been seven days. Their daughter Eugenie, who was only 19 when she died on August 1, 1915 had been attended by Dr R.G. Reid. Eugenie died of Nephritis and Odema of the Lungs and her illness had lasted one year, one day, according to the death certificate. What a tragic event her death was for her family. Her doctor was Robert George Reid of Glen Huntley Road, Elsternwick. In 1909 he was appointed the Health Officer for the City of Caulfield, a position he held until 1926; at one time he was also the Chief Medical Officer for the Boy Scouts. (7)

Also, one day, I will do a post on the opening of the road to Mt Donna Buang. 

Footnotes

(1) The Age, April 3, 1912, see here.

(2) Lilydale Express, April 5, 1912, see here.

(3) Ibid

(4) Prahran Telegraph, July 27, 1918, see here.

(5) Electoral Rolls on Ancestry.com  and articles on Trove

(6) Dr Morton - Obituary The Age, May 27, 1947, see here; The Argus, May 28, 1947, see here.

(7) Dr Reid -  Electoral Rolls on Ancestry.com; Caulfield - Brighton Southern Cross, February 27, 1909, see here; Prahran Telegraph, January 15, 1926, see here;  Boy Scouts - The Argus, August 22, 1910, see here

Carlo recommends the planting of Willow trees

The use of willow trees to stop erosion and to add beauty to the river banks was well established in Victoria by the 1850s (1)

Willows on the Yarra, 1860.

 Photographer: Charles Nettleton. State Library of Victoria image  H6299. 

The National Library of Australia has this same image dated as 1878.

During the 1890s this practice was promoted by Baron Ferdinand von Mueller, botanist and the director of the Melbourne Botanical Garden; the Department of Agriculture; William Davidson, Inspector General of Public Works, and Carlo Catani. This post looks at some examples of Carlo's recommendation of the use of the willow tree.

Snowy River
This report of the Tambo Shire Council meeting from August 1891 relates to the Snowy River and Baron von Mueller's advice -
From Baron Ferd. von Mueller - Forwarding copy of his work on select plants for industrial culture, with a view to guiding the Council in selecting willows, etc., for the protection of the river banks; also enclosing seeds of American pines. - Received.
From the Department of Agriculture -  That sufficient for 1000 cuttings of the golden basket willow had been forwarded to the Council. - The engineer to distribute same to the best advantage. (2)

Carlo also offered advice to the Tambo Shire in 1891, regarding willows - 

Snowy River bridge - Mr. Catani stated that he would recommend the Department to plant the yellow basket willow along the banks, and also in the drains leading from the flats into the river, and gave some very interesting information as to the important results that had been achieved in Italy by this means. (3)

Sale Canal
In 1896, Mr Davidson gave this advice regarding the Sale Canal (4) - As to the erosion of the banks he suggested the planting of blackberry bushes, which would grow quickly, and would hold the ground together just as well as willows or other plants more difficult to cultivate. (5)

In 1912, Carlo provided advice to the Sale Borough Council - Willow Planting. The chairman of the Parks and Garden Committee (Cr. Walden) reported that at a meeting of the committee it was arranged to engage the willow planting expert (T. Ambrose) recommended by Mr. Catani at £1 per day to plant willows on the banks of the canal and river to prevent erosion. - The report was adopted.
Mr. Ambrose was present and stated he believed he could make a good job of it. He wanted some good thick willows. - To be obtained. (6)

In January 1913 -  The Sale Town Clerk reported verbally the results of interviews he had with various departments when on leave in Melbourne. Mr. Catani was pleased to learn that the willows were succeeding along the canal banks and said the sheet piling work would be attended to before long. (7)

In April 1914 a report from the Sale Council meeting -  From Public Works Department, stating that council could make its own arrangements as to person employed to plant willows on banks of canal. - Received.
As Mr. Catani desired the canal reserve works to be made official, a letter was sent by Mr. Holt in regard to the willow planting. The most favourable time to plant willows is, unfortunately, during the months of of May, June, and July, when the waters in the canal are usually too high for the best results - a seeming contradiction that the council will readily understand. (8)

In January 1926 we learn more of Carlo's willows and the esteem in which he was held -
Recently the Sale Advancement League arranged with the Town Council for provision to be made for tourists of a camping ground on the reserve at the rowing sheds. The league erected open fire places and provided water and sanitary conveniences. At the recent council meeting the Mayor (Cr. T. M. Cullinan) reported that some tourists had been chopping the willow trees that were growing on the river banks in the reserve, which, he said, was a scandalous thing. It was on the suggestion of the late Mr. Catani that the willow trees and couch grass were planted on the river bank to prevent erosion. For sentimental reasons the vandalism was to be deplored for Mr. Catani was the greatest man the Public Works department ever had. It had been demonstrated that erosion of river banks could be combated. He was sorry that anyone could commit such an act of vandalism. The Advancement League undertook to supervise the reserve, and he hoped they would do so. A further inspection made of the locality has revealed the fact that the trees referred to had died months ago through having been too severely cut back at the wrong season of the year. (9)

Avon River
In 1898 - Mr Catani, one of the chief engineers from the Public Work's Department, visited Stratford on the 11th December, and made a thorough inspection with me of the Avon River bridge at Stratford, and the flood damage done to the banks of the river, etc. Mr Catani recommends willow planting, to commence at a point opposite Mr O'Connor's western boundary. (10)

In 1902 - On the recommendation of Mr. Catani, of the Public Works department, 400 cuttings of white willow have been forwarded to the Avon Council by the curator of the Botanical gardens and have been planted, under the supervision of Mr. A. L. Johnson, shire engineer, in the soft banks of the Avon River, near the town in the belief that they will bind the sandy soil together, and so arrest the erosion of the banks, which occurs after every flood. (11)

In 1914 - The steel piling at Stratford was inspected by Mr Catani. He strongly advocates the continuous planting of the white willow (salix alba) and the trial of bags of wire netting filled with heavy stones. A proposal to construct a groyne to support the weak bulge at the north end of the high street piling and divert the stream was made by Mr Catani. (12)

Goulburn River
In 1902 - Tatura - Mr. Catani, of the Public Works department, strongly recommends the planting of white willows along the levee embankment of the Goulburn, as it would protect the banks, and other good results will follow. (13)

Creswick Creek, Clunes
In 1916, from the Clunes Borough Council, the Shire Engineer reported on flood damage to the Creswick Creek - Since your last meeting I proceeded to Melbourne, in accordance with your instructions, chiefly to ascertain if the Public Works department would agree to have the plans, etc., for the creek damage repairs so altered as to allow of substituting concrete for the proposed sheet piling on this side of the creek, and breakwaters of rough rock on the frontage of Victoria Park instead of the sheet piling proposed there. With the kind assistance of your member (Sir A. J. Peacock) I was enable to discuss fully with the Under-Secretary (Mr Drake) and Mr Engineer Catani the necessity for the alteration above mentioned, and found that this was readily agreed to, with the recommendation from Mr Catani that basket willows should be extensively planted along all parts of the banks where erosion is threatening. This, in any case, I meant to urge upon you when the planting season was about to open, as willow roots are admitted to be amongst the very best means of protection in the banks of a watercourse. (14)

Fyans Creek, Halls Gap
In 1916 - In connection with the recent deputation from the Borough of Stawell, Shire of Stawell, and Shire of Ararat to the Minister of Public Works, regarding assistance to repair the damage done to Delly's [Delley's] Bridge, Hall's Gap, by the recent floods, a letter was received by the Shire of Ararat, at its meeting held last week, from the Department of Public Works. The letter was as follows:-"With reference to representations made to the Minister of Public Works by the Hon. J. D. Brown, M.L.C., in regard to the above matter, I am directed to inform you that, as promised, the chief Engineer of Public Works made an inspection on 28th ult. in company with councillors of the riding, the shire and borough of Stawell, and their own engineer and borough overseer. Mr. Catani has now furnished a report in connection with his inspection, and suggests that the following works be carried out......5. The west bank on both sides of the bridge 5 chains north and 10 chains south of new abutment to be planted with osier willows on the water's edge, and 10ft. to 15ft. into the river bed, and white willows immediately behind, so as to protect the bank from erosion. The new plantation to be protected in its turn at intervals with dry stone, fascine and stone walls, and with wire netting to guard the new plantation from rabbits. (15)

Delley's Bridge over Fyans Creek, Halls Gap

Photographer: Rose Stereograph Co. State Library of Victoria image H32492/6669

Yarra River

In 1917 - The Governor General, as is well known is an enthusiast and authority in tree planting, and walking is his favourite exercise. One of his favourite walks is along the Alexandra avenue over the Anderson street bridge and along the north side of the Yarra to to Burnley. The barrenness of the river banks does not please him, and he has expressed himself as very desirous that the tree planting should be pushed on. It was with this motive that Mr. J. M. Reed (secretary for Lands) and Mr. C. Catani (formerly chief engineer for the Public Works department) met representatives of the Richmond City Council on Wednesday on the Yarra bank at Punt road. It was agreed a beginning should be made by planting trees as far as the South Yarra railway bridge). The Richmond representatives promised to bring the matter before their council at the next meeting so that the planting can be expedited, and it is hoped that a beginning will be made within a week or two. Under the scheme consideration is given to the utility as well as to the appearance of the trees to be planted and it is anticipated that their variegated colours will form a pretty effect. The trees will be eucalyptus botryoides (Gippsland mahogany) which though it does not grow to a great height has large leaves, and is a fine shady tree; Salix vitellina (yellow willow) and Salix purpuria (purple willow) which get a good grip on the ground, and save the bank from erosion; Populus monilifera aurea (golden poplar), and Populus bollana (silver poplar). (16)

Trove List - I have created a short list of articles on Carlo Catani and his promotion of the Willow tree, access it here.

Footnotes
(1) The Argus, January 12, 1859, see here;  The Argus, January 26, 1859, see here.
(2) Snowy River Mail, August 22, 1891, see here.
(3) Snowy River Mail, August 1, 1891, see here.
(4) Sale Canal - I have written about this here   https://carlocatani.blogspot.com/2019/01/carlo-and-sale-canal.html
(5) Gippsland Times, January 13, 1896, see here.
(6) Gippsland Times, May 9, 1912, see here.
(7) Gippsland Times, January 23, 1913, see here.
(8) Gippsland Mercury, April 10, 1914, see here.
(9) Bairnsdale Advertiser, January 29, 1926,  see here.
(10) Gippsland Times, January 13, 1898, see here.

(11) The Argus, September 9, 1902, see here.
(12) Stratford Sentinel, November 6, 1914, see here.
(13) The Age, September 13, 1902, see here.
(14) Clunes Guardian & Gazette, February 18, 1916, see here.
(15) Stawell News, December 13, 1916, see here.
(16) The Argus, July 27, 1917, see here.