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Valley of Gold is Launched

Historian John Aldersea and his partner Barbara Hood have recently launched their first book titled "Walhalla: Valley of Gold" at the Mechanics Institute and Free Library in Walhalla.

By Eimear McNelis - 31st October 2003 - Back to News

The launch also included the exhibition "a Stone upon a Stone", researched and curated by Raelene Marshall which concentrated on the history and heritage of dry stone walls in Walhalla and other parts of Victoria and New South Wales.

The launch was attended by many descendants of Walhalla who contributed to the book and was officially launched by Baw Baw Shire Mayor, Geoff Davey.

Mr Aldersea and Ms Hood described the creation of the book a team effort and thanked everyone that contributed to the book in one way or other, the book taking three and a half years to compile.

Mr Aldersea told the audience that the book was a compilation of over 20 years of research on his part, visiting descendants from as far away as Adelaide and Swan Hill, locating old and sometimes dangerous mines in Walhalla and even locating one of Walhalla’s original steam trains that is still in use today.

Cr Davey said that it was a great honour to launch the book, which provided a unique look through the historian’s eyes and filled the gap that other books on Walhalla in the past had left.

"Even now the word ‘Gold’ conjures up excitement. In the height of the gold rush era there was a population of 3,500 in Walhalla, it was the second largest town in Gippsland and was very multicultural, with over 10 nationalities present," said Cr Davey.

"History books can sometimes be sterile, but the passion that John has for history and his love for Walhalla are clearly

reflected in this book."

"John adds a personal touch as he relates people and personalities to stories, which bring the book to life."

Cr Davey said that he thoroughly enjoyed the book, which would greatly benefit generations to come.

"This book ensures that the history of Walhalla is not forgotten."

"Walhalla: Valley of Gold" is a modern book of approximately 300 pages which features many photographs, included among them are 94 colour photographs. It also includes maps and illustrations relating to the town.

Copies of the book are readily available from Occasions Giftware in Midvalley Shopping Centre in Morwell.

For further distribution points or for more information, please contact Barbara at Walhalla Publishing, on (03)5633 1014 or email walhalla@tpg.com.au

Source: http://gippsland.com/

Published by: news@gippsland.com

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