By Tyler Wright
On Saturday 18 June, the Monbulk Historical Society facilitated the display of 35 historical images highlighting the history of The Patch and surrounds.
Photographs of early settlers and their dwellings in the 1980s, panoramic views of The Patch from between 70 and 120 years ago and the Monbulk Jam Factory were on show at The Patch Store from 10:00am to 1:00pm on the day.
Monbulk Historical Society President Armin Richter said fellow Society member Bev McAllister “loved” the old pictures of The Patch store (that she lives opposite to) posted of Facebook, and imagined it would be great to share more historic images of the area with locals.
“Bev is also a co-founder of the Dandenong Ranges Music Council and thought it would be a great way to get the community together again after Covid with a combined performing arts and history display in The Patch,” Armin said.
“The day was a success as many people turned out and even included a family reunion of descendants of early settlers, some of whom had never met before,”
Steam punk group The Brass Harpies performed and a photo booth allowed visitors to snap pictures of themselves on location.
Jasmin van der Werf, post office manager at The Patch Store, said old residents visited on the day to witness the exhibit.
“It was really nice to have everyone together again…because the weather was quite nice too, we were very lucky, we set a few more tables outside and everyone sat together, mingled and got to chat with each other,” Jasmin said.
“I think it was nice for the [older generation] to look back on the photos from the past and see what it looks like in comparison to now.”
The display will be up until Friday 8 July, and Armin Richter also thanked Natalie from The Patch Store for hosting the exhibit.
The Patch Store is located at 16 The Patch Rd, The Patch VIC 3792 if you wish to view the display before Friday 8 July.
