About Us

About the Society

The Whittlesea Historical Society was founded in 1975, then known as Whittlesea & Conservation Society. Bill Payne, who wrote the first history of the Shire of Whittlesea, was a Foundation member and President from October 1976 until his death in 1983.

Purposes of the WHS include:

  • The encouragement of the study of Australian, Victorian & local history
  • The production of properly researched analytical local histories
  • The collection, preservation, dissemination and publication of historical documents and photographs and when necessary other items of historical interest
  • The location, identification and preservation of significant local heritage features
  • Encouragement of and participation in the study of Australian, Victorian and local history in schools and other educational institutions in the area
  • Promotion of cultural tourism
  • Exchange of information and co-operation with other historical societies through membership of the RHSV and co-operation with other bodies in related fields of conservation and genealogy
  • To so conduct its affairs that it has a continuing existence and is financially viable

Some of our recent activities include:

  • Display at the 170th Anniversary of the Yan Yean Reservoir
  • Digitalisation of our photographic collection
  • Guest Speakers at meetings
  • Representation on the Yarra Plenty Heritage Forum
  • Outings to local places of interest
  • Attendance at workshops and seminars presented by the Royal Historical Society of Victoria
  • Publication of our Newsletter four times per year

Office Bearers 2023/2024

  • President: Barbara Miller
  • Vice President: Ross Mugavin
  • Secretary: Karen Wilson
  • Treasurer: Shayne Beauchamp
  • Committee: Virginia Greenwood, Albert Miller, Chris Scull, Judy Clements, Sarah Barnard