By Mikayla van Loon
With the help of a number of community groups from Montrose and Mount Evelyn, the now Yarra Ranges Shire will celebrate 150 years of local government in the area.
The Montrose Environmental Group, Montrose Township Group, Montrose Fire Brigade and Mount Evelyn Scouts have been involved putting together a display that will open on 5 February.
For nine months the Lilydale and District Historical Society has been working with these groups and other local organisations to compile an exhibition called ‘Working Together’ ready for people to view.
“Working through the networks of the township groups of Seville, Coldstream, Kilsyth, Montrose and Lilydale, the society invited any groups involved in sport, community, service, business, and education to write 100 words about their organisation working with the council. Each group was also invited to submit two images,” historical society president Sue Thompson said.
From scouts groups to fire brigades, cricket clubs to op shops, 18 organisations contributed to the display and shared stories of how they have worked alongside the council over the years.
On 11 February 1872, the Shire of Lillydale was proclaimed, transforming the area forever and creating a sense of community.
“A group of residents lobbied for the creation of the Shire of Lillydale because they wanted their towns to grow and provide the range of services and facilities to create the community residents want,” Ms Thompson said.
Although now named the Yarra Ranges Shire, the current council has continued to establish connections with local residents and groups, ensuring the foundations that the people of the 1800s worked so hard to build remain.
The display, opening at the Lilydale Historical Society site at the Old Court House on Castella Street, celebrates this milestone event and how local government has worked with the community to create the opportunities, services and experiences available in the present day.
People are welcome to join in the festivities and opening of the display at 2.30pm on Saturday 5 February.
As part of the CovidSafe plan, the event will be held outside, with patrons requested to bring their own chair. Those who attend must be double vaccinated. Upon entering the Court House, masks must be worn.
The Old Lilydale Court House is located at 61 Castella Street, Lilydale.
