By Karin Orpen
Secretary of Knox Historical Society

Knox Historical Society (KHS) celebrated their 60th anniversary at Millers Homestead with an afternoon tea for the volunteers along with some special guests.

Mayor Cr Lisa Cooper presented a diamond shaped award marking the milestone and congratulated the Society for the role it undertakes in preserving our past for future generations to enjoy.

Federal Member for Aston, Mary Doyle also congratulated the Society for its commitment to local history and State Member Jackson Taylor, who was at Parliament, sent a letter of congratulations on behalf of the district.

Two long term volunteers, Murray Snell and Inta Jaunzemis both long term residents of Ferntree Gully, were recognised for their contribution and awarded Life Memberships at the event.

Murray, who began volunteering with KHS in 2003, oversees the accessions for donated artefacts and assists during tours with visiting schools.

Inta Jaunzemis commenced volunteering with KHS in 2002 following a visit to Ambleside seeking her school photos. Her contribution over many years training volunteers and overseeing their input into the Society’s database was recognised along with her astounding knowledge of the contents of the ‘temporary’ shipping container, which she has affectionately named the Tardis.

Every guest received a copy of the publication ‘Celebrating 60 Years – Knox Historical Society’ thanks to the grant received from Knox Council’s Minor Grant Program.

The booklet chronicles for the first time, the Society from its commencement following the inaugural meeting in June 1965 through to its present-day activities including its aspirations for a purpose-built Resource Centre to provide an appropriate space for its volunteers and visitors.