THE recent reproduction of a historic book is aimed at reminding residents how far Bacchus Marsh has come and revealing progress made by keepers of the town’s history.
Bacchus Marsh and District Historical Society has reprinted Bacchus Marsh: A Pictorial Chronicle, first published in 1986 for the town’s 150th anniversary celebrations. Written by society life members Gwyn Moore and Jean Oomes, the book was launched by then Conservation, Forest and Lands Minister Joan Kirner. While the group doesn’t have enough funds to hold an official relaunch, society members like Nancy Daley and Chris Stancliffe (pictured) hope to fund more historic publications through the sale of the book.
Society spokeswoman Christine Bonchinetti said the book, which contains photos from as far back as the 1850s, had not been publicly available for many years.
“At the time of putting this book together, the historical society didn’t have a home of its own,” she says.
“Members met at the Buffs Hall and the small collection they had was housed at members’ homes.”
The society which clocks up 44 years in October, leases a room at the new Lerderderg library.
“Inquiries come from all over Australia and overseas for information about descendants of pioneering families and the part they played in developing the community we enjoy today,” Ms Bonchinetti says.
Soft-cover books can be purchased for $40 at Lerderderg library, Bacchus Marsh Newsagent, Village Homewares and Collins Bookstore.-Ben Cameron
