General News
1 September, 2023
Museum visit rouses memories
Dimboola Probus Club Embarks on a Historic Journey to Rupanyup's Woods Farming and Heritage Museum. On a rare sunlit day, breaking the frosty spell of recent weather, a spirited convoy of Dimboola Probus Club members embarked on a delightful trip...
Dimboola Probus Club Embarks on a Historic Journey to Rupanyup's Woods Farming and Heritage Museum.
On a rare sunlit day, breaking the frosty spell of recent weather, a spirited convoy of Dimboola Probus Club members embarked on a delightful trip earlier this month to the town of Rupanyup.
Their destination: the renowned Woods Farming and Heritage Museum.
The museum’s collections were begun by the venerable Woods family in 1910, and the museum underwent further expansion in 2000 and was officially opened to the public in 2007.
This museum boasts an astonishing collection of memorabilia that caters to every taste, including eight nostalgic recreations of historic freehold establishments, and various household rooms like old-fashioned laundries, meticulously capturing the essence of the past.
The pride of the exhibit, however, lies in the extensive display of vintage farm implements.
With no descendants to inherit it, the Woods brothers bequeathed the museum to the Rupanyup community.
The museum now benefits from the tireless efforts of approximately 30 dedicated volunteers, who diligently maintain and run the museum.
Upon arrival, the Probus group’s 19 eager members received a warm welcome and an engaging introductory talk before indulging in a substantial lunch.
Energised and enthused, they then set out to explore the captivating collections.
The sheer magnitude of the exhibits proved overwhelming for some, with member Lois McKenzie exclaiming “I could spend hours here - days even - just to see everything.”
Of particular interest was the grocery store section, where shelves were adorned with historic print packaging, evoking cherished childhood memories for many in the group.
Interestingly, some classic Australian staples from yesteryear are still available on modern supermarket shelves, evoking a sense of nostalgia for bygone eras.
Adding to the museum’s allure is the recently donated collection by the late Noel Funke, which comprises an astounding 850 Tonka toys, and piques the curiosity of visitors.
Presently, the curators are working on an exciting new display focused on fire station memorabilia, promising an even more engaging experience for future visitors.
Probus members concluded their perfect day at the museum with a delightful afternoon tea, which provided them with an opportunity to share their impressions and create lasting memories of their extraordinary journey through history.