In memory of Mona

An exhibition of memorabilia of one of Bairnsdale and District's early photographers.

4th April 2009 to 31 May 2009

Mona Catherine McLeod (c.1898 - 1964) photographed East Gippsland from 1912 until her retirement in 1959. The daughter of Alexander and Christine (nee. Roberston), she was born near Bemm River and recieved her first camera when 11 years old. At the aged of 14 she left home and, after waiting on tables, commenced an apprenticeship with Howard Bulmer at Bairnsdale. While still in her twenties she opened her own studio in Bairnsdale and at various times employed up to three female assistants. She was one of the few photographers in the district and was known to rarely refuse a job. While her photographic career spanned a time when cameras were changing rapidly she continued to use her old fashioned bulky plate camera, which is now lodged a the Historical Museum at Bairnsdale. This was the camera she used while covering newsworthy events, sports, pictorials and studio work. Many of her photographs were used to illustrate reports in the Argus, Herald, and Weekly Times newspapers. She is remembered for her vivacious attitude and good humour. Her imprints were many and varied.

(Article from Gipplsand in Focus)

Tantalising and Torturous

An exhibition of over 100 years of women's undergarments

Recent displays at the Museum:

Tantalising and Torturous

8th October to 5th November 2008

To see more images of past exhibitions we use "My Connected Communities", please click HERE

The display includes items from the 1840's through to the present day, and features nightgowns, corsets, chemises, and bloomers, as well as a range of accessories.

The garments are made from a range of fabrics from heavy weight linens to fine silks and cottons, and inlcude the hand made unmentionables that granny kept in the cupboard for years, to new Austrailian designs created by Elle McPherson in the 1990's.