St Kilda City Council: Carlo's 1914 re-subdivision and Carlo urged to nominate in 1917

The City of St Kilda was re-subdivided from three wards into four wards in April 1914, the new boundaries being based on the plan devised by Carlo Catani.   

There had been agitation for this increase in wards for years, as the Prahran Telegraph reported in October 1909 -

At the St. Kilda Council meeting last evening Councillor Stedeford moved - " That this council, at its next meeting, take the necessary steps to constitute a new ward, dividing the city of St. Kilda into four Wards, in lieu of three wards as at present constituted." The proposal had been before the council during the past nine or ten years, but had been postponed for various reasons, the main objection being that the vacant Crown land at Elwood had not been sold. Some of the land had now been sold. There had been a large increase of settlement in the South Ward. The area was twice that of the other wards, and the number of ratepayers was nearly twice the number of the other two wards. (1).

In October 1912 at a Council meeting Cr. Hewison moved that the public works committee be directed to take into consideration the advisableness of resubdividing the city into four wards, and report to the council. The number of ratepayers in the three wards was noted as 1400 and 1300 in the North and West wards, and over 2000 in the South. The motion was lost on the casting vote of the Mayor and this was his reasoning -

The Mayor (Cr. O'Donnell) stated that when the matter was previously discussed it was decided that nothing be done until the Elwood land had been sold. He would not vote for an additional ward being created until that eventuated (2).

John Butler Cooper, in his History of St Kilda explains how the four wards eventually came to fruition  -

The marvellous developments of the southern portion of the City of St. Kilda, that followed the subdivisional sales, by the Government, of the reclaimed lands at Elwood, was such that it disturbed the balance of municipal representation in the Council, and obviously suggested the advisability of resubdividing the city into four Wards, with the consequent increase in the number of councillors from nine to twelve. Prior to that the business of the City was carried on by nine councillors, representatives from three Wards, and that had been so from November 27, 1868, when it was proclaimed in the Government Gazette that St. Kilda was divided into three Wards, respectively, the North Ward, the South Ward and the West Ward.

The St. Kilda Council faced the position created by the development of Elwood. It received a petition from certain ratepayers desirous that a new Ward of the City should be created. A plan of the proposed subdivision, prepared in October, 1913 by Carlo Catani, at the desire of the Hon., the Minister of Public Works was approved at a conference held between the St. Kilda Council, and the petitioners. Copies of the petition were issued for signature, by ratepayers in favor of the resubdivision of the City of St. Kilda into four Wards (3). 

The Conference accepted Carlo's scheme of sub-division with the exception that the name of the Central Ward be substituted for that of the proposed Balaclava Ward, and South Ward for that of the proposed Elwood Ward. (4). 

The re-subdivision into four wards was gazetted on April 8, 1914. All nine councillors were stood down, and the first election under the new boundaries was held on August 27, 1914. The successful candidates were -

Central Ward : T. G. Allen, J. H. Pittard, J. J. Love; North Ward : H. F. Barnet, H.B. Gibbs, F. G. Hughes ; West Ward : E. O'Donnell, R. A. Molesworth, G. B. Renfrey ; South Ward : Burnett Gray, J. H. Hewison, H. McL.Duigan. (5).

Cooper published this interesting table of the statistics of the four wards in October 1913. The table was prepared by the Town Clerk, Mr. F. W. Chamberlin. 

Statistics of the four St Kilda wards in 1913. 

Carlo Catani also presented similar and extra statistics, see footnote 6.

Source: John Butler Cooper History of St Kilda  (7).

The well respected Carlo, was urged to stand for Council after his retirement from the Public Works Department. In March 1917, the In the Barber's Shop column of the Prahran Telegraph, which was written under the pseudonym of Figaro, reported this -
It has been suggested to me that Mr. Catani, who is retiring from the public service, and who is a resident of St. Kilda, would make a very fine councillor, from his knowledge of public works, if he could be induced to enter the council. I pass the suggestion on to those who are more actively engaged in electioneering than myself. (8).

The same paper reported in June 1917 -
A requisition was presented by a number of influential ratepayers to Mr. Carlo Catani, J.P., asking him to nominate for a seat in the St. Kilda Council for the south ward at the coming elections. After consideration, Mr. Catani declined. (9). 

The St Kilda Town Hall, as Carlo would have known it.

A portico and new foyer were added in 1925 and the brick was rendered in 1957 (10)

State Library of Victoria Image H84.346/75

It's a shame that Carlo never stood for election, he no doubt would have romped home at the head of the poll, however even though he had retired he was still involved in other civic activities such as the St Kilda Fore Shore Committee and from May 1917 he sat on the bench at the St Kilda Magistrates Court as an Honorary Justice (11). 

Trove list - I have created a list of articles on the lead up to the 1914 re-subdivision of the City of St Kilda, which will give some extra information on the process of the change, access it here. 

Footnotes

(1) The Prahran Telegraph, October 9, 1909, see here.

(2) The Age, October 2, 1912, see here.

(3) Cooper, John Butler The History of St Kilda from its first settlement to a city and after 1840 - 1930, v. 2 (St Kilda City Council, 1931), pp. 178-179. 

(4) The Argus, October 28, 1913, see here.

(5) Cooper, op. cit., p. 179.

(6) From the Prahran Telegraph, October 4, 1913, see here. 

The figures attached to Mr. Catani scheme of re-subdivision are as follows:

West ward. — Rateable property, 345 acres, reserves 177 acres, total, 523 acres; valuation, £102,087; ratepayers, 1611, population, 9076, probable increase in ten years, nil ; valuation in ten years, £102,087.

North ward.— Rateable property 436 acres, reserves 62 acres, total 498 acres; valuation, £74,159; ratepayers 1580, population, 7204, probable increase in ten years to 10,686, probable valuation, £84,845.

Balaclava Ward. — Rateable property, 382 acres, reserves, 43 acres, total 425 acres, valuation £65,826; ratepayers, 1752, population 6740, probable increase in ten years to 17,667, probable valuation, £83,493.

Elwood ward. — Rateable property, 555 acres, reserves, 94 acres, total 649 acres; valuation, £49,898; ratepayers, 1444, population, 4466; probable increase in ten years to 39, 076 probable valuation, 

£88, 974.

Totals. — Rateable property, 1719 acres, reserves, 379 acres, total 2009 acres; valuation, £291,970; ratepayers, 6387, population 27,436; probable increase in ten years to 67,429; probable valuation, £359,399.

(7) Cooper, op. cit., p. 179.

(8) Prahran Telegraph, March 17, 1917, see here.

(9) Prahran Telegraph, June 30, 1917, see here.

(10) Town Hall history http://skhs.org.au/SKHSbuildings/33.htm

(11) St Kilda Fore Shore Committee - https://victoriancollections.net.au/stories/carlo-catani-an-engineering-star-over-victoria/st-kilda-foreshore-gardens St Kilda Magistrates Court - http://carlocatani.blogspot.com/2022/03/carlos-time-as-honorary-justice-at-st.html

Carlo and the St Kilda Patriotic Carnival, December 1917

The St Kilda Patriotic Carnival was held at Luna Park from December 8 to 15, 1917. It was officially opened by Sir John Madden, who was introduced by the Mayor of St Kilda, Cr O'Donnell - 

Some ceremony was observed at the opening, which was conducted from a large central platform, around which many leading citizens and their wives had assembled. Sir John Madden, the Chief Justice; Lady Madden, Brigadier-General Hughes, Miss O'Donnell, daughter of the mayor: the mayor and councillors and town clerk gathered thereon with Mr. Catani, late engineer in chief of  public works, and Mr. Mackenzie, Melbourne city treasurer. (1).

The badge produced for the St Kilda Patriotic Carnival. 

Admittance to the Carnival was 6 pence, but the purchase of this badge for 2 shillings

gave free on-going entrance. (2). 

The Patriotic Carnival raised £6,985/15/6 and after expenses £5,910/1/6 was left and was distributed thusly - Australian Comforts Fund - £2,955/0/9; Victorian Division Red Cross - £738/15/2 and the same amount went to the 'local fund for material'; the St Kilda Soldiers' Lounge received the balance of £1477/10/5 (3). 

On the opening day alone 25,000 people visited the Carnival and The Australasian reported on the event - During the afternoon half-hour programmes were given in the theatre by the Bon-Bons, the Serenaders, and the Troubadours. The evening's programme included a fancy dress competition, a court of injustice, an exhibition of stock-whip cracking, and balloon battles in the open air, whilst in the theatre the Zingari Orchestra and Madame Evelyn Ashley gave a concert. (4).

Helpers at the Cake Stall at the St Kilda Patriotic Carnival

Photographer: F.W. Tolra. Punch, December 27, 1917

 https://trove.nla.gov.au/newspaper/article/121084046#

There were also many stalls and the stallholders have vied with each other in doing that which they consider the most artistic and aspiring. (5). Judging by the photographs, the stall holders went to great effort in their choice of outfits. A comprehensive list of stalls was published in the newspapers - 

A well-equipped produce stall is presided over by Mrs. Sibbon and Mrs. George Baillieu, whilst Mrs. Agar Wynne is among the saleswomen. Miss Spottiswood has a charming art stall, which displays some beautiful oil paintings others. In the centre of the grounds is a pretty pavilion in pink, black, and white. The mayoress of St. Kilda (Mrs. O'Donnell) was to have presided there, but she is ill, and her daughters have taken her place. Others in charge of stalls are Mesdames Ingham, Lilley, and Thomas (fruit), Wertheim, Ormiston and Pirani (cakes), Myers and Harris (St Kilda trades' jumble stall), Mr. Le Plaistier (toys made by locals patriotic woodworkers), Mrs. Potton (pot plants), Mrs. H.A Embling and Miss Esme Allee (Christmas tree, gifts, and snowball), Mrs H.S.K. Ward (kitchen), the Misses Shmith (balloons, confetti, and kewpies), Mrs. J. H. Hewison (Our Boys), Mrs. Gudgeon (sweets), Mesdames Stephen and Barlow (ices and raffles), and Mrs Tong (ices). (6). 

St Kilda Red Cross workers, in charge of the Stall.

Photographer: F.W. Tolra. Punch, December 27, 1917

 https://trove.nla.gov.au/newspaper/article/121084046#

A refreshment pavilion, where Mrs. R. Hallenstein and Mrs. J. McD. McKenzie have charge of the arrangements, and the afternoon tea, high tea, and light supper are equal to the best obtainable in the city. The room will seat about 400 people, and is beautifully decorated, with, garlands of evergreens and panels and clusters of pink Japanese blossom. Among those assisting here are Mesdames A. Couchman, Nahum Barnet, Lockyer, D. Swanson, Phillips, Zeltner and Miss Swan, whilst 50 girl friends act as waitresses, and all are frocked in white. (7).

A striking group of helpers at the Sweets stall

Photographer: F.W. Tolra. Punch, December 13, 1917 

https://trove.nla.gov.au/newspaper/article/121083733

A bevy of Produce stall assistants

Photographer: F.W. Tolra. Punch, December 13, 1917 

https://trove.nla.gov.au/newspaper/article/121083733

It was indeed a very successful and well attended event and a credit to the organisers, the St. Kilda Patriotic Committee of which Carlo Catani was a member, with the official role of Manager of Grounds. (8). In fact The Australasian  gave Carlo much credit for the success - as owing to the practical interest of Mr. C. Catani in designing a plan and seeing to the arrangements wonders were achieved. (9).

The venue, Luna Park, had opened on December 13, 1912 and operated until it closed for the season in May 1915. The next season, starting with the summer of 1915/1916, and no doubt due to the war it was practically closed ... except the section devoted to the scenic railway and it did not open at all over the Summer of 1916/1917. (10).

Luna Park had thus laid in an unused state for a long time, and it was with feelings of apprehension, that a band of voluntary workers undertook the task of making preliminary preparations for the Carnival the difficulties in the way at first appeared insuperable, but by a strenuous application to the work, they have transformed the park from a place of weeds and neglected buildings into a picturesque and happy looking village of oriental originality. (11).

The first report we read of Carlo's involvement is this  - 

Preparations on an extensive scale are being made for the holding of a great Patriotic Carnival in Luna Park in December next. Under the direction of Mr Catani, a number of voluntary workers commenced operations at the park on Saturday.... The work of levelling up and levelling down, and removing material that is no longer useful is being energetically pushed forward. (12)

A further report which mentions the work of Carlo -  The renovation of Luna Park (which is lent to the St. Kilda Patriotic Committee by the generosity of Luna Park Ltd.) is being carried out under the supervision of Mr. Catani. The whole of the renovation work, which was estimated to cost £1500, is being done by voluntary workers on Saturday and Thursday afternoons. (13).

The practical work undertaken by Carlo was noted by the newspapers - From all sides one hears nothing but praise for the help given by Mr Catani in the work of preparing and otherwise decorating Luna Park for the Carnival. It is more than evident that Mr Catani has done a giant's work. (14).

After this successful event, the St Kilda Patriotic Committee held an open air carnival on March 22 and 23, 1918 in the grounds of the St Kilda Town Hall. It was reported that - 

Owing to the untiring efforts of Mr. Catani, the scene was a brilliantly attractive, for the grounds were encircled by festoons of gay pennants and electric lights hung from Venetian masts, whilst about were dotted a large number of kiosks prettily decorated with flowers and foliage, interspersed with electric lights. (15). This is another report on the brilliance of Carlo - A brilliant scheme for illuminating and decorating the grounds has been evolved by Mr Catani, and in addition to a number of decorated kiosks about the grounds there will be a flower show, picture shows, and concerts; whilst in the main hall there will be a "palais de danse."  (16). Around £300 was raised at this event,

As a matter of interest, Luna Park remained closed after the Patriotic Carnival and did not reopen until November 2, 1923. (17). 

Trove list - I have created a short list of newspaper articles on Carlo Catani and the St Kilda Patriotic Carnival, access it here. There are photos of the Carnival in Punch, December 13, 1917, here and Punch, December 20, 1917, here and Punch, December 27, 1917, here; and Table Talk, December 13, 1917, here and here.

Footnotes

(1) The Age, November 10, 1917, see here.

(2) Table Talk, November 15, 1917, see here. Malvern Standard, December 1, 1917, see here. The Badge was made by Stokes & Sons, Melbourne and it was given to me by my fellow Carlo Catani researcher, Isaac Hermann. 

(3) Audited account of Statements and Receipts - The Argus, April 19, 1918, see here and here [public notice, top p. 4]

(4) The Australasian, December 15, 1917, see here.

(5) Prahran Chronicle, December 8, 1917, see here.

(6) The Australasian, December 15, 1917, see here.

(7) The Australasian, December 15, 1917, see here.

(8) Prahran Chronicle, December 15, 1917, see here.  The report listed  - the rest of the Committee - President, His Worship the Mayor (Cr E. O'Donnell). Vice-Chairman, Mr F. S. Ormiston. Treasurer, Mr F. Chamberlin. Assistant Treasurer, Mr J. F. Jeans. Organisers, Cr A. Sculthorpe and Mr. W. F. Swanson. Advertising Representative, Mr J. Cowley. Stall Secretary, Mrs G. Lorimer. Badge Secretaries, Messrs D. Moulden and R. J. Devereaux. Raffle Secretary, Mr M. J. Porter. Manager of Grounds, Mr Catani. Traffic Managers, Cr H. F. Barnet and Mr J. M. A Spottiswood. Manager of Bands, Mr G. Tucker. Typists, Miss Ivy Kitching and Mr F. O'Neill. Executive Committee-These include names already mentioned, with the addition of Messrs. A. R. Kelsey, H. M. Knox, J. McD. McKenzie and E. A. Walker.

(9) The Australasian, December 15, 1917, see here.

(10) The Argus, December 14, 1912, see here; Prahran Telegraph, July 1, 1916 see here;  Prahran Telegraph, December 9, 1916, see here.

(11) Prahran Chronicle, December 8, 1917, see here.

(12) Malvern Standard, October 13, 1917, see here.

(13) Table Talk, October 25, 1917, see here.

(14) Malvern Standard, December 8, 1917, see here.

(15) The Australasian, March 30, 1918, see here.

(16) The Australasian, March 23, 1918, see here.

(17) The Argus, November 2, 1923, see here and Cooper, John Butler The History of St Kilda from its Settlement to a City and after 1840 to 1930, v. 2 (St Kilda City Council 1931), p. 207.

Carlo Catani and the Henley on Yarra Regatta

Alexandra Avenue, designed by Carlo Catani, was officially opened by the  Duke of Cornwall and York on May 17, 1901. The land adjacent to the Avenue was turned into a public park in 1904 and this park was also designed by Carlo and was named Alexandra Gardens. In Autumn 1908, Carlo and George Cooper, laid out the Henley Lawn in the Gardens.  George Cooper had worked with Carlo Catani from 1900 on the landscaping of Alexandra Avenue and at the Alexandra Gardens, where he was the head curator until 1917 (1).  It was on the Henley Lawn where spectators by the thousands lined up to watch the annual Henley-on-Yarra rowing regatta.

The Australasian in 1910 had a short history of the regatta which takes place as usual on Saturday next, October 22 (the Saturday between Caulfield Cup and Derby Day). This will be the eighth Henley-on Yarra, the first having been held on March 19, 1904. There was a good deal of speculation then as to how a big social regatta would "catch on" here, where none but those immediately concerned took an interest in rowing races; but the choice of date and the foresight of the promoters in reproducing in modest way the features of the Royal Henley Regatta soon made the fixture one which claimed everyone's attention. Succeeding years have served to popularise the regatta, and each year the watchful executive, profiting by experience, adds some new attraction (2).

This post looks at any connections I can find between Carlo and the Henley Regatta, and is illustrated by postcards from my collection. The connection started as early as 1905 when it was reported that -
Through the courtesy of Mr. Davidson and Mr. Catani, of the Public Works department, the committee has been provided with certified measurements of the courses taken by boats racing on the north and south stations respectively. These show that the boat on the south station, if it starts from a line parallel with Anderson-street bridge and finish on a line at right angles to the river bank, has 7 feet 7 inches less distance than the northern crew. This discrepancy will be corrected by a special surveyed finishing line, which will be marked out to-day. (3). William Davidson was the Inspector General of Public Works.

The1905 Henley Regatta took place on the course certified by Carlo and William Davidson.

This postcard was addressed to Miss Schieder, State School 2957, Victoria Park at Abbotsford. 

The 1905 Electoral Rolls shows a Bertha Schieder of 14 Trenery Crescent, Abbotsford, who was a teacher. 

She lived with Ethel who was a dressmaker and Paulina, home duties.

It was in 1908 that the new lawn was laid out - 

The transfer of the Henley reserve from the north to the south bank was a distinct improvement. Last year spectators had to promenade on a narrow uneven slope along the north bank, but on Saturday the tastefully designed reserve alongside Alexandra-parade provided ample accommodation and an excellent view of the races. The reserve, which was temporarily fenced for the occasion, was laid out by Mr. Catani, of the Public Works department. Its walks and lawns and general scheme at once suggest the hand of an artist. (4).

There was a slight criticism of the lawn in Table Talk, but clearly it was caused by circumstances beyond the control of both Carlo and George - The Henley lawn was laid down in the autumn by Mr. C. Catani, assisted by Mr. Cooper. Owing to a variety of circumstances the lawn is not in as good condition as was expected, but it will nevertheless make an excellent outlet for the crush and crowding of the old reserve on the north side. (5).

Getting ready for Henley on Yarra, Melbourne.

Postcard not dated and not used postally.

An 1908 article reported on the grown of the gardens - 

The course starts a short distance above the Botanical-gardens bridge, and finishes at the Henley lawn, which was laid down by the Public Works department, and under the personal superintendence of Mr Catani, the officer responsible for the beautiful Alexandra avenue and river gardens. When the palms, which will be planted along the paths, grow up, and the grass has time to get a good hold the lawn will be a fine addition to the riverside improvements, and the enterprise of the Henley Association and the Public Works department will give another beauty spot to Melbourne. (6).

There was a further report in 1910 - The fine lawn laid down by Mr. Catani and the officers of his department on the south bank of the Yarra, with its rockeries and shrubs, has now matured into a pretty garden. The English trees, which mark both banks of the river, have put on their new leaves, and the grass on the slopes is in perfect condition. (7)

The Palms Refreshment Kiosk, Henley Lawns.

Postcard not dated and not used postally.

The Palms Refreshment Room, on Henley Lawn, Alexandra Gardens took advantage of the palms planted by Carlo Catani and George Cooper. The Refreshment Rooms were built by the City of Melbourne, who held a competition for the design, which was won by Architects Messrs Blackett and Forster. They opened officially on March 19, 1927. (8)  The building was renamed The Dorchester in 1946 and closed and demolished in 1990. (9)

The Palms, Henley Lawns, Alexandra Gardens.

Postcard not dated and not used postally.

Footnotes
(1) I have written about Alexandra Avenue, here; Alexandra Gardens, here; and George Cooper, here. 
(2) The Australasian, October 15, 1910, see here. 
(3) The Age, October 24, 1905, see here.
(4) The Argus, October 26, 1908, see here.
(5) Table Talk, October 22, 1908, see here.
(6) The Argus, October 20, 1908, see here.
(7) The Australasian, October 15, 1910, see here.
(8) The Age, December 11, 1925, see here;  The Herald, December 11 1925, see here; Table Talk, March 17, 1927, see here.

The Palms Kiosk - the Architect's sketch

The Herald, December 11 1925 http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article243893753

(9) Whitehead, Georgina Civilising the City: a history of Melbourne's Public Gardens (State Library of Victoria, 1997), p. 148.

Notice of Auction of contents of the Dorchester.

The Age, January 16, 1990, page 21, from newspapers.com

Interesting list of the contents of the Dorchester.

The Age, January 20, 1990, p. 91, from newspapers.com

Carlo Catani and the Caulfield Racecourse

The area occupied by the Caulfield Racecourse, operated by the Victorian Amateur Turf Club (VATC) (1), has been the subject of on-going disputes regarding public access to the land for well over 120 years. The land had been used for racing since 1859 (2) and that same year Trustees were appointed to the site, which had been set aside for racing and other purposes of public recreation.  

Trustees appointed to the Caulfield Racecourse, 1859.

Victoria Government Gazette April 5, 1859, p. 660.  https://gazette.slv.vic.gov.au/images/1859/V/general/50.pdf 

The multiple uses of this land were confirmed in 1879 when the land was permanently reserved from sale as a site for Racing, Recreation and Public Park Purposes.

Gazetting of the land for Racing, Recreation and a Public Park, 1879.

Victoria Government Gazette, p. 2185 https://gazette.slv.vic.gov.au/images/1879/V/general/86.pdf

This post is not a detailed history of the alienation of this public land by a private organisation but these three excerpts from the newspapers tell the story. 

From The Argus of January 18, 1906  - Caulfield Racecourse - Access for Public and Perambulators - 

Last night a number of residents of Glenhuntly waited on the Caulfield Council, and asked that a gateway, with a swing bar, be placed on the Caulfield racecourse, at the junction of Neerim-road and Queen's avenue, in order to give better access to the railway station, and also, that perambulators would be able to pass through. Mr Devine, who acted as spokesman to the deputation, said that the residents of Glenhuntly had no means of going into the racecourse with perambulators. They were told the racecourse was the property of the people, and yet they were not allowed to go through the gate.

Councillor Lloyd said that he and the mayor and Councillor Wood had waited on the committee of the V.A.T.C, and they had been informed by that body that under no consideration would they open the gate as requested by the deputation, as it was dangerous. The club pointed out it was a more direct route to the station along Queen's avenue than by the way proposed (3). 

A motion at the Council meeting that the VATC be asked to put a turnstile at the location, was carried,  however it was not unanimous as Councillor Lempriere said the V.A.T.C. had spent £43,000 on the course, and had the right to say that the racecourse should be conducted as they thought fit (4).  He apparently didn't understand the concept of public access to public land, or care about women taking their babies out for a walk. 

From The Age, November 4, 1911 -  The Caulfield Racecourse - Original Trust Conditions Evaded - Public Reserve Annexed - 

The revival of the movement to free Caulfield from the associations of the racecourse in that district has led to an investigation of the conditions under which the V.A.T.C. holds the park lands used by the club for racing. It has also led to a resuscitation of local organisations interested in the development of the district, and the transformation of its civic utilities and transit facilities on modern lines. The result of the investigation shows: - 1. That the V.A.T.C. has been permitted by the inertia of the Government and the negligence of certain local governing bodies to acquire a relationship to the Caulfield racecourse, recreation ground and public park which violates both letter and spirit of the Crown grant under which the land was set aside. 2. That were the conditions of the law complied with the V.A.T.C. would be compelled to leave the district, and spend some of its huge reserve funds in the acquisition of another racecourse elsewhere. The land at Caulfield now regarded by most people as the property of the V.A.T.C. committee does not belong to that body at all. It really belongs to the people, whose interests are supposed to be represented by a body of trustees, in whom the Crown has vested the control, subject to the right of the Executive Council to annul, modify or repeal any of those trustees acts........At that time [of the original agreement] the V.A.T.C. was not what it is to-day, and very little fear was entertained that the fifteen days' occupancy would within 23 years be converted into a pseudo-proprietorial interest, or that its influence on the Government of the day and the municipal institutions would be so powerful as to almost ignore the "public recreation ground and public park" character of the reserve (5).

From The Age, October 25, 1913 - Caulfield Racecourse - Serious Social Menace - Filching a Public Reserve -
The few individuals who have laid marauding hands on public property, who have deliberately filched a public recreation ground, have not only done a grave wrong to the district in monopolising public lands, but they have become a downright nuisance.

The article continues -  When the V.A.T.C. was established, over 40 years ago, it was an association of amateur sportsmen who held races, at which they ran their own horses, and rode, jumped, and raced with one another for amusement. The land at that time was thought to be a long way from the city, there was no railway, the scrubby area liable to floods had no particular value; nobody dreamed that the grant of a user of the ground to a small body of horsey enthusiasts would culminate in the creation of a racing proprietary, conducting not amateur races, but the ordinary game of swindling, roping, and sharping that has characterised the turf since the unlucky Charles I gave the first cup for competition on Newmarket Heath. After the "amateurs" had had the use of the land for some years - the public having free access to the place, for it had not been fenced in - the area was dedicated to the public in 1888 as "a racecourse" for fifteen days in the year, and as a "public recreation ground and public park" for the remainder of the year. The prime object of the reservation was to create a public park and recreation ground, portions of which could be used only on certain days by the Victoria Amateur Turf Club for racing purposes. At all other times the course was to be absolutely free to the public.

There is no need to point out how the powers of the V.A.T.C. have extended until they have established virtual ownership of a public recreation ground. Not withstanding the fifteen days as the limit of the club's occupancy, it fenced off a large area for lawn and stands, betting ring, bird cage and saddling paddock, and forbade the public to trespass on these illegally acquired reserves on pain of expulsion. The area so absorbed in defiance of the original grant is being constantly extended. Land is set apart for training tracks. While training is going on the public cannot use the training ground, which is necessarily an extensive territory. The club charges fees for training horses, and imposes regulations on jockeys and trainers using the course that would be considered harsh in the German army. Some of the oldest stagers of the Heath have been brought before the V.A.T.C. committee and fined for offences such as crossing the course on horseback during training hours. Fancy fining a member of the public for going on to public land! What kind of a public spirit is it that calmly yields to such treatment? What influences were at work that bulldozed local bodies and progress associations, and made them submissive tools of the V.A.T.C. in respect of action which under any Government jealous of public rights would have led to prosecution, and in England would have aroused one of those stirring and historic demonstrations against the local land grabber for the maintenance of the right of way. (6).

How does Carlo Catani fit into this story? In 1910, at the request of the Caulfield Council, the  Minister for Lands directed Carlo, who is an expert in designing parks and gardens (7), to report on the Caulfield Racecourse and the issue of public access. This is his report, as published in The Herald, March 17, 1910 - Caulfield Racecourse - Mr Catani's Report - Interesting Recommendations.

"Having examined the Caulfield racecourse and heard the requirements of the Caulfield Council, the trustees, and the residents, I am of the opinion that the reserve cannot be turned into a general recreation ground without impairing its efficiency as a racecourse. So many tracks are required for schooling horses, and the number of horses availing themselves of the reserve is so great, that practically the whole of the reserve is fully utilised, with the exception of the central portion, which includes the lake. This area is fairly large, and could be considerably improved, but owing to the impossibility of planting it with large, shady trees, or erecting thereon a roomy pavilion, the required summer shade will always be wanting, and the place cannot be made into a proper summer resort for the ratepayers. But if kept absolutely free from horse traffic, it would provide a very useful recreation ground for 10 months of the year. I think, however, that a good plantation of tree or a shelter shed, or both, could be provided at the southern end of the reserve. At the northern end the area in front of the public stand is fairly free from intrusion from horses, and could be availed of with a little improvement for the recreation of residents.

The improvements suggested are as follow: -
"(1) The deepening of the lake and the using of the excavated material to level the depressions formed by the promontories and mounds.
"(2) Facing in the margin of the lake with stone, forming little points, bluff, etc., so that the subsidence of the water within the lake in summer time would not mean a reduction of the area of the lake, etc.
"(3) Forming paths, draining, and gravelling them, the path round the lake being the main feature, and the area between the path and the rocks on the water's edge being covered with buffalo grass.
"(4) Formation of land for sports and gatherings.
"(5) Water supply for grass, and stand pipes for drinking taps for the public.
"(6) Formation of flowering beds; also plantation of flowering shrubs, so as to maintain a succession of blooms.

"The financial arrangement, at present arrived at, is that the club should supply the necessary funds for the improvements at the rate of L500 per annum for five years, and that the trustees should do the necessary works and keep them in order. It seemed, however, that it would be in the interests
of all parties to effect substantial improvements at once, so as to have the place made sightly and available for recreation purposes, and to this end I would suggest that the club be requested to advance at once L1125, and to pay in the future on the reduced contribution of L275 per annum. The total
would be the same at the end of five years. If the proposal were adopted I would suggest that the following be carried out at once:—
1. Deepening lake and filling depressions — L350.
2. Facing margin of lake with stone — L300.
3. Forming paths, gravelling, and planting buffalo grass— L250.
4. Forming and planting lawn — L75.
5. Water supply and seats— L100.
6. Clearing and planting south end — L50.
Total outlay — L1125. (8). 

In spite of these clear suggestions from Carlo the VATC decided they would rather spend £500 per annum for five years (9). In December 1911, the Trustees of the land wrote to the Caulfield Council  that it was proposed to carry out, as far as practicable, the scheme propounded by Mr. Catani to beautify the lake, and form the surrounding paths. In 1910, £390 6s 7d., had been expended on improvements, and in 1911, £359 19s 10d. (10).  However, four years later, in July 1914 it was reported that the trustees were endeavouring to carry out Carlo's scheme of improvements (11).  By then, of course, the project should have been nearly complete. The reality was that the VATC simply didn't care about improving public access and public amenities for the local people, even with pressure from community groups. In September 1914, for instance -
The Glenhuntly branch of the A.N.A. is strongly in accord with the motion carried on August 14 by the Caulfield City Progress Association regarding the encroachments on the rights of the public by the trustees of the Caulfield Recreation Reserve, Public Park and Racecourse, and further, the branch desires to support the request to the Minister of Lands asking for an increase in the number of trustees by the election of three public spirited citizens who reside in immediate vicinity of the reserve.(12)

In 1922, due to the demand  for greater public use of the racecourse, the Minister for Lands decided that 10 acres to be permanently reserved on the Neerim road side for use as a public park and gardens. The high fence at present enclosing this area will be removed and re-erected on a line to be defined by the Minister, adjoining the racecourse. The new outer fence adjoining the public road will be sufficient only to protect the hedges and ornamental shrubs (13). This is what is now called Glenhuntly Park (14). At the same time, another four acres was also set aside for recreation. The areas are both shown in the map below.

14 acres of the racecourse grounds were turned over to public use in 1922

The Argus, October 20, 1922 https://trove.nla.gov.au/newspaper/article/1849870

Fast forward 100 or so years and what has changed? A 2014 Auditor's General report which examined the effectiveness of the management of the reserve by the trustees found that conflicts of interest have not been adequately managed and preference has been afforded to racing interests with insufficient attention given to use of the reserve for recreational pursuits and as a public park (15). 

In April 2021, a glowing press release from Andrews Labor Government announced that they had launched a plan to transform the Caulfield Racecourse Reserve into a people-friendly community recreation space....Over the next 15 years the reserve will become an increasingly accessible and activated space, supporting diverse uses and events. Access into all reserve areas will be improved and parts of the reserve that currently are not accessible will be opened to the public (16). It appears that  progress still moves at a glacial pace when it comes to the public's right to access their own land on the Caulfield Racecourse site. Children who were just starting school in 2021, can look forward to better access to the Reserve in 2036, when they will be half way through University. 

Trove list - I have created a short list of articles on Carlo's report and public access issues to the Caulfield Racecourse. Access the list here.

Footnotes

(1) Now called the Melbourne Racing Club https://mrc.racing.com/our-club/history
(2) Murray, John R and Wells, John C From sand, swamp and heath...a history of Caulfield (City of Caulfield, 1980), p. 170.
(3) The Argus, January 18, 1906, see here.
(4) Ibid
(5) The Age, November 4, 1911, see here.

(6) The Age, October 25, 1913, see here.

(7) The Argus, March 18, 1910, see here. 

(8) The Herald, March 17, 1910, see here.

(9) Brighton Southern Cross, October 29, 1910, see here.

(10) Brighton Southern Cross, December 9, 1911, see here.

(11) Oakleigh and Caulfield Times, July 25, 1914, see here.

(12) Malvern Courier, September 4, 1914, see here.

(13) The Argus, October 20, 1922, see here. 

(14) For an update of what is happening around the area - City of Glen Eira Caulfield Major Activity Centre Structure Plan, September 2022. Chapter 3.4 Open Space, Public Realm and Landscape https://www.gleneira.vic.gov.au/media/files/Caulfield-Major-Activity-Centre-Structure-Plan.pdf

(15) Doyle, John  - Auditor's General report - Management and Oversight of the Caulfield Racecourse Reserve. Tabled: 17 September 2014, see here.  

(16) Press report - https://www.lilydambrosio.com.au/media-releases/ambitious-strategy-to-transform-caulfield-reserve/   

Carlo Catani meets John Wren

Carlo Catani, met many interesting people during his career at the Public Works Department, including John Wren. John Wren (1871-1953) described variously as a man of integrity or a man with a sleazy reputation; a man who was modest, charitable and concerned with freedom; and a man who observed 'the principles of commercial morality'. John Wren supported Conscription and in August 1915, he enlisted in the A.I.F at the age of 44; he was reported as saying that he regarded it as the duty of every able-bodied man, physically fit, to offer his services if he could do so (1). He also gave £500 to Albert Jacka, the first Australian to be awarded a Victoria Cross in the First World War. Wren was also a supporter of the Catholic Church and Irish Independence (2). Frank Hardy portrayed Wren as John West in his 1950 novel, Power Without Glory. 

This is the story of how Carlo met John Wren. On November 22, 1913 the Richmond Racecourse, owned by John Wren, played host to one of the first motor car racing programmes in Australia. As The Herald reported this new form of sport to Australians has attracted thousands upon thousands in America, on the Continent, and in England, where skill and daring on the part of the drivers have produced thrilling contests. So expert have those engaged on Saturday already proved themselves that stirring racing is assured to those who attend. (3). 

Advertisement for the motor car racing

The Argus, November 19, 1913 https://trove.nla.gov.au/newspaper/article/7281315

Thrills and excitement were promised however as The Age reported -

The danger of serious accidents in such motor car races as are to take place at Richmond racecourse on Saturday next has not escaped the attention of the Chief Secretary. Action is to be taken to minimise the danger, both to the competitors and to the spectators themselves. Yesterday Mr. Murray conferred with Mr. Sainsbury, Chief Commissioner of Police, and Mr. Catani, Chief Engineer for Public Works, with a view to determining what steps should be taken for the proper protection of the public. It was resolved that before permission should be given to conduct the races an inspection of the racecourse should be made by officers of the Public Works department, who should report to the Chief Secretary on the suitability or otherwise of the course for such an event, and the probabilities of danger to the spectators resulting from an accident to the cars. Mr. Catani and other officers will accordingly visit the racecourse to-day, and make a thorough inspection. (4).

What was the result of Mr Catani's inspection? The Herald tell us -

After a thorough Inspection by the officers of the Public Works Department the Richmond racecourse has been officially declared to be as safe and as fast as any track of its size in the world. The Chief Secretary had some doubts about the safety of the great crowd of spectators which is sure to assemble there on Saturday to watch the motor car racing, but Mr C. Catani, the Chief Engineer for Public Works, Mr M'Kenzie an expert officer of the department, and other officials, after seeing Rupert Jeffkins, the American champion, send his 120 h.p. car at world's record speed round the turns have reported favorably. More than that, Mr M'Kenzie timed Jeffkins to go at a 72-mile-an-hour speed skimming the inside rails with a precision that showed that the element of danger was very slight. (5). 

The Argus also reported in a similar manner on the course inspection - 

This was done yesterday morning when Mr C. Catani chief engineer for public works, Mr McKenzie an expert connected with the department and other officials watched Jeffkins the American champion drive his 120 h.p. car at a speed which Mr McKenzie timed as 25 seconds to the circuit. This was equal to 72 miles an hour. Jeffkins kept within a few feet of the inside rails on the turns and so satisfied the officials that they assured Mr Wren that there would not be any interference with the meeting, it being, acknowledged by the officers that a car travelling at a record speed for such a track left ample room for other cars to pace alongside without danger to the drivers of the spectators. (6).

Mr McKenzie would have been in his element at the safety trial. Duncan McKenzie was an Architect in the Public Works Department but was also one of the first men in Melbourne to own and drive a motor car, and he maintained an interest in motoring and cycling throughout his life (7). 

The races went ahead with a nineteen event programme, the headline attraction being between a three-heat match between the American, Rupert Jeffkins (8) and the Australian, Dug Campbell (9). The winner was to take home £1000.

Sadly, the day turned out to be a bit of  a fizzer, as The Argus reported -

Those who visited the Richmond racecourse on Saturday afternoon were disappointed at the display of motor racing, even though most of it was faster than that provided by the ponies. Those who went to see the racing in a state of half-pleasurable anticipation of an accident - and nearly every one of the 10,000 who attended regarded an accident as more than possible- were agreeably disappointed. Had the cars been driven at their top speed the sharp turn on the northern end of the track would have made accidents inevitable. Along the straight the heavily-engined cars were opened out, but the turns forced reduction in the speed. In one of the races, the visiting American driver, Jeffkins, declared that he had reached 68½ miles an hour, but the recorded time for the two miles was 3min. 1½sec., or a little under 40 miles an hour. The cars had no sooner got up speed in the straight than they had to slow down at the turn. Even nimble-footed ponies find it difficult to negotiate the turn at the northern end, and as the cars rounded this dangerous corner they threw up the cinders in showers against the outer fence as their back wheels skidded. (10).

Rupert Jeffkins, leading Dug Campbell at the Richmond racecourse

The Leader, November 29, 1913 https://trove.nla.gov.au/newspaper/article/198377664

In the battle between Jeffkins and Campbell - 

Then came the great event of the day, but by no means the best race, the match between R. Jeffkins and Campbell for £1,000 aside. Owing to a misunderstanding Jeffkins stopped, after leading Campbell for three laps, having mistaken the last lap flag for the winning signal. Campbell, who started at 2 to 1 against, completed the course and won.... The second heat of the match race between Jeffkins and Campbell was won by Jeffkins rather easily. Heavy rain then fell and the track was pretty well soaked, and at the suggestion of Inspector Britt and Mr. D.Mackenzie (of the Public Works department)

the final of the Jeffkins Campbell race was postponed. These gentlemen declared that the track, while safe enough for high speeds when dry, would be dangerous in the state in which the rain left it, and Mr J. Wren, after some demur, accepted their decision (11). 

Did Carlo attend the Motor Car racing at Richmond on November 22, 1913?  Given that his colleague, Duncan MacKenzie was present,  it is highly likely Carlo would also there, and possibly his sons, Enrico and Ettore, to witness the display of  nerve, pluck, skill, backed by mechanical power, expert construction and speed (12). 

Trove list - a very short list of articles, relating to the motor car race, held November 22, 1913, and the role of Carlo Catani in inspecting the course, can be accessed here.

Footnotes

(1) Weekly Times, August 14, 1915, see here.

(2) Australian Dictionary of Biography entry by James Griffin 

https://adb.anu.edu.au/biography/wren-john-9198 

(3) The Herald, November 19, 1913, see here.

(4) The Age, November 18, 1913, see here.

(5) The Herald, November 19, 1913, see here.

(6) The Argus, November 19, 1913, see here.

(7) The Age, April 16, 1938, see here.

(8) Rupert Jeffkins - photo and a  list of his achievements The Herald, November 19, 1913, see here.

(9) Dug Campbell  - short biography - Table Talk, November 20, 1913, see here.

(10) The Argus, November 24, 1913, see here.

(11) Ibid

(12) The Argus, November 19, 1913, see here.

Bridge at Gilbert's Ford, Middle Creek, Yinnar

Carlo Catani was involved with the construction of many bridges in the State and he had a small role in the eventual building of a bridge across Middle Creek at Gilbert's Ford in Yinnar, in Gippsland. 

The community had been agitating for this bridge for some time as the ford was dangerous. In 1898 the Morwell Council had applied for money for the bridge but had been unsuccessful (1). 

A report in the Morwell Advertiser in August 1899 noted the danger the ford presented -
On Tuesday evening, last week, Mr. J. Cahill, of Jumbuck, and a man who was working for him, narrowly escaped being drowned. It appears they were returning from work both mounted on a heavy draught horse. All went well till they reached Gilbert's Ford across Middle Creek, which, in consequence of the recent heavy rains, was running a banker. At one side of the ford a large log is lying in the creek and the force of the water running underneath has excavated a large hole, and whilst crossing the ford the horse Cahill and his man were riding, fell into the hole and threw both men over the log into the current. Cahill, with much difficulty, managed to reach the bank in an exhausted state, after being carried down the stream about three chains. His man, however, was carried about eight 
chains down, and just when he thought it was "all up," or rather "all down" with him, he managed to lay hold of some support and eventually reached the bank in safety, but exhausted and bruised. This is the same spot where Mr. W. Tulloch met with an accident about two years ago, when his horse and hearse were stranded in the creek, the former being drowned whilst the latter remained under water for two days. Other accidents have also occurred at the same place, and it is quite evident a bridge is urgently required to replace the ford, which is very dangerous, and most unsafe for crossing when the creek is high, and it is to be hoped the local shire council will consider the matter at an early date and get their engineer to report on the matter before any lives are lost (2).

In July 1900, it was reported that for some time past the local council have been endeavouring to impress upon the Public Works Department the urgent necessity of having a bridge erected at Gilbert's ford, and other necessary work carried out immediately, and brought such pressure to bear, that Messrs Catani, engineer for Public Works, and Reed, Surveyor-General, visited Morwell yesterday (3). 

Morwell, c. 1890 - it would have looked much the same when Carlo visited in July 1900

Photographer: W.H. Ferguson. State Library of Victoria Image H85.162/2

The Morwell Advertiser reported on this visit of Carlo and Joseph Reed, and started with a description of Gilbert's Ford -
"Gilbert's ford" is becoming quite famous, and if its whole history was written it would certainly be interesting as well as exciting, and if a verbatim report of what Mr. Bryson and others have said regarding it was included, its history would be most thrilling. This ford, known as Gilbert's, is one across Middle Creek, between Messrs Walker's and Bryson's properties, and directly in front of Mr A. Gilbert's gate, about ten miles from Morwell, and five from Yinnar. When the creek is in a normal state the water at the ford is about half a chain in width and shallow, but being at the foot of a range of hills the water comes down in a body after heavy rain, and in the space of an hour or two the water will rise from a depth of 18 inches to nearly as many feet, making it quite impassable for traffic, and in consequence suppliers to the Middle Creek creamery have been unable to deliver their milk for several days, being completely cut  off.

The report continues -
The matter was repeatedly brought under the notice of the local shire council who recognised that a bridge was necessary. Steps were taken to have the work placed among the first and most urgent works so be carried out under the Special Grant, but for some reason or other the Public Works department "wiped it out." The people interested were naturally much disappointed whilst the council were indignant and eventually brought such pressure to bear that Mr. Catani, engineer for public works and Mr. Reid, Surveyor-general, visited Morwell on Thursday last week, and in company with the council, were driven out to the ford in P. Dunbar's drag (4). 

Because this is a blog devoted to Carlo, I will reproduce some more of the report, which mentions him by name, even though it is not strictly relevant to this story - 

Messrs Catani and Reid arrived by the mid-day train, and at 1 o'clock a start was made for the ford. The route taken was along the ridge to the Hazelwood Cemetery, where a road to the left leading to Billy's Creek was taken. The visitors were so taken up with maps, plans, etc, that they did not notice the scenery whilst travelling along the ridge. They, however, "pricked up their ears" when they reached Mac's flats. The road between Macmillans' properties is in a bad state and Mr. Catani remarked that poor land made the best roads. They then began to admire the flats and made several inquiries as to what would be a fair rental. Someone mentioned there was a rumor that the flats were to be cut up into small holdings and the land would be worth something between 10s and £1 per acre, Mr. Catani referred to rents that were paid in the Western district, and thought anything under £1 would not be out of the way. One councillor remarked that he was getting 12/9 an acre rent for similar land. 

Mr. Catani drew attention to the fact that the banks of the creek were higher than the land a couple of chain away. This was accounted for by the wash in flood time remaining on the bank, and a councillor stated that by putting sand-bags in the creek, the whole of the adjacent flats could be irrigated. Soon after, a farm house was passed, and Mr. Catani said "I'll bet you that is a rented place, you can always tell them. Buildings are allowed to go to wreck and other matters neglected." A councillor said Mr. Catani was correct, and that the place was let (5).

When the party arrived at the ford - Mr. Catani was not long in "grasping the situation," and as soon as he saw the place said "you shall have a bridge here," and then pointed out the spot where the bridge should be placed. Of course this satisfied the council, and Mr. Gilbert's satisfaction was likewise expressed upon his face (6). The party then continued on to Yinnar  for other inspections and then Carlo and Mr Reed boarded the train at Yinnar, which took them to Morwell, from where they returned to Melbourne, 

You would think the recommendation for the bridge by Carlo, Chief Engineer of the Public Works Department, would be enough for the work to be funded and started immediately, however in October 1899, members of the community had to bring the matter up with the Council again and it was reported that Messrs A. Gilbert, Bryson, Heesom and Walker waited on the council in connection with having a bridge erected across Middle Creek, at the place known as Gilbert's Ford (7). 

Or as the Morwell Advertiser reported the summer came and went and so did winter, during which the same old trouble had to be faced by the residents. When the last allocation was applied for it was placed on the list as one of the most urgent, but the recommendation of the council was simply ignored and when the list was returned "Gilbert's bridge" was not among the works to be carried out (8). 

In October 1901 a deputation from the Morwell Shire met with the Minister for Public Works and they represented the case in such an able and forcible manner that, we are glad to learn, it had the desired effect, and money has now been set aside for the erection of bridge referred to (9). The money became available in early 1902 (10). 

Middle Creek in flood, June 11, 1909. Photographer: Martin Walker.

Image: Gippsland and Regional Studies Collection, Federation University

http://researchonline.federation.edu.au/vital/access/HandleResolver/1959.17/80866

A tender was advertised in February that year for a Timber Pile Bridge at Gilbert's, Middle Creek. It was re-advertised  in March (11) and the bridge was built, but I have no information about when it was constructed.  

Sadly, in June 1909 in the worst floods in 16 years, four bridges on Middle Creek, including the one at Gilbert's Ford was washed away (12). The community not only lost their bridges but the old ford, used before the bridge was erected, is covered with debris, and the Messrs Gilbert Bros., and others on the same side have to go by way of Whitelaw's Track to reach Yinnar (13). The ford was eventually cleared, but it does not appear that the road bridge was rebuilt.  

Debris in Middle Creek after the June 1909 flood. Photographer: Martin Walker.

Image: Gippsland and Regional Studies Collection, Federation University

http://researchonline.federation.edu.au/vital/access/HandleResolver/1959.17/80745

However, in 1917 the Morwell Shire Engineer prepared specifications, etc.for a timber foot bridge over the Middle Creek, near Gilbert's Ford (14). Fifteen years later, in November 1932, the Council moved a motion that an application be made to the Country Roads Board for  a grant for a bridge with concrete piers and timber top  to be erected at the ford (15); in March 1934, a motion at a Council meeting was moved to ask the Country Roads Board to inspect the proposed bridge site across Middle Creek now known as Gilbert's ford (16). 

A year later, in  March 1935, the Council received a letter from James Gamble and A. C. Gilbert asking for a bridge at the Middle Creek Ford owing to danger and inconvenience, also asking for repairs to footbridge (17).  This was referred to Country Roads Board (CRB) and they responding promising an inspection of Gilbert's Ford. The visit was reported in May 1935 and the visit produced the good news that they [the CRB] were prepared to allocate portion of the money for a bridge, provided the Council and the settlers contribute portion of the cost (18). In the June the CRB approved the plans and specifications for the bridge and gave the Council permission to commence the works (19). 

Again  I have no information as to when the bridge was opened, but the local residents must have been overjoyed to once again have a bridge at Gilbert's Ford. There is a small reserve near the bridge, originally called Yinnar South Reserve, but now known as Martin Walker Reserve. Martin Walker was a farmer at Yinnar South and a Morwell Shire Councillor for many years from 1924 until the 1970s. He died in 1977, aged 85.  He was also a photographer and some of his photographs are at the State Library and some at the Gippsland and Regional Studies collection at Federation University at Churchill. Two are shown in this post. (20). 

Acknowledgment - The photographs by Martin Walker in this post were found on the Gippsland History Facebook page, see here, posted by the Friends of the Gippsland and Regional Studies Collection Facebook group, see here. The information on Martin Walker was also from the Gippsland History Facebook page, see footnote 20. 

Trove list - I have created a list of newspaper articles on the bridge at Gilbert's Ford, access it here. 

Footnotes 

(1) Morwell Advertiser, January 10, 1902, see here. 

(2) Morwell Advertiser, August 25, 1899, see here. 

(3) Morwell Advertiser, July 27, 1900, see here.

(4) Morwell Advertiser, August 3, 1900, see here.

(5) Ibid

(6) Ibid

(7) Morwell Advertiser, October 13, 1899, see here. 

(8) Morwell Advertiser, January 10, 1902, see here. 

(9) Ibid

(10) Ibid

(11) Morwell Advertiser, February 14, 1902, see here;  Morwell Advertiser, March 21, 1902, see here. 

(12) Morwell Advertiser, June 18, 1909, see here. 

(13) Ibid

(14) Gippsland and Mirboo Times, April 5, 1917, see here. 

(15) Morwell Advertiser, November 17, 1932, see here. 

(16) Morwell Advertiser, March 22, 1934, see here.

(17) Morwell Advertiser, March 21, 1935, see here. 

(18) Morwell Advertiser, May 23, 1935, see here. 

(19) Morwell Advertiser, June 20, 1935, see here.

(20) Information on Martin Walker from a post on the Gippsland History Facebook site, by Helen Martin, posted April 14, 2020. 

Carlo displays an ignorance of the value of Red Gums

The Age newspaper reported on June 22, 1899 that the Forest Commission met yesterday morning for the purpose of taking evidence upon several matters recently brought under consideration.  At this meeting -
Mr. Carlo Catani, Engineer of Roads and Bridges, in the Public Works department, was examined concerning the work of constructing levees, which is being carried out on the banks, of the Goulburn River. The work now in progress, he said, extended 40 miles along one side of the river, and would cost about £5000. The work would greatly enhance the value of land in the vicinity, as it would protect it from floods. He admitted that there was a probability that a forest of red gums  - a tree that requires periodical inundation to live -  would be destroyed, but did not think that in any case the timber there was particularly valuable. Red gum timber was but little used for building bridges, although useful for sleepers and paving blocks.

The Chairman: What puzzles us is why the public first should he called upon for £38,000 to improve private owners' property.

Mr. Catani said that there were at least 20,000 acres of land which, at present, would not fetch £1 an acre, even if 20 years were given in which to pay. it. After the completion of the levees the land could be sold for £3 per acre. A written offer had been made some two years ago to buy the whole of the land protected by the Cobram levee at £2 10/ per acre. The work was to be carried out by workmen recruited from the ranks of the unemployed. The unemployed had become quite an institution.

Mr. Ham: Yes; a Government Institution.

Mr. Catani: Well, every year £5000 or £6,000 has to be spent as a sop to the unemployed. (Laughter.) This work was intended to relieve the hard times of these people.

It was decided that the commission should pay a visit of inspection to the works as soon as the necessary arrangements could be made.

Red Gums, Dandenong, pre 1954, some of the many red gums growing 

south of the Dividing Range (see letter below) 

Photographer: Archibald G. Campbell (1880-1954). Coloured lantern slide. 

Museums Victoria https://collections.museumsvictoria.com.au/items/1449231

This was the end of the matter for Carlo on that day at the Forestry Commission meeting. However, a reader of The Age report took umbrage at  Carlo's comments on red gums and wrote a letter to the Editor of that paper, which they published under the heading of - Is it ignorance or what?

Sir, -  Mr. Catani, engineer of roads, &c., is reported in your issue of this morning as having stated before the Forest Commission "That the red gum is a tree that requires periodical inundation to live." This statement is so contrary to the fact that, coming from such a quarter, it needs contradiction. The truth is that south of the Dividing Range scarcely any red gum grows subject to the conditions referred to, and the large supplies used in Melbourne and suburbs are mainly drawn from forests absolutely incapable of being inundated. He further implies that the timber referred to is not of great value, yet what a different tale the timber merchants of Melbourne tell. I should not have referred to the matter but the ignorance displayed in certain quarters about our native timber is lamentable, and doubtless accounts for the ruthless destruction which is constantly going on of our most valuable native trees.  Yours. &c.,  RED GUM. 22nd June.

A rare public rebuke to Carlo.

Sources
The Age, June 22, 1899, see here.
The Age, June 24, 1899, see here