A group of local historians is seeking community input to explore producing a publication to mark City of Mitcham’s 175-year anniversary in 2028.
With unanimous support from City of Mitcham Council Members, the group has set out to build on and update ‘The History of the City of Mitcham’, published in 1954 by WA Norman.
Blackwood Action Group History Group member Lindy Taeuber said WA Norman’s book was ‘of its time’, containing little reference to Aboriginal history or the contribution of women.
“We want to update the first 100 years and fill the gaps between 1953 and 2028, because a lot has happened since then,” she said.
Major changes include the development of Flinders University and the Flinders Medical Centre, Centennial Park Cemetery, Craigburn Farm and Colebrook Reconciliation Park.
“There are also community advocacy stories, including campaigns to stop the dam in Brownhill Creek and protect Waite Street Reserve and the Waite gatehouse,” Lindy said.
The book would include listings of schools, businesses and industry and an overview of the COVID pandemic experience.
The group is calling on other history groups and any residents who would like to become involved, either through research, knowledge sharing or school projects.
To join the project, contact Lindy Taeuber on 0420372566 lindytaeuber@gmail.com or Geoff Sauer (Mitcham Historical Society) 0412125010 gsauer@bigpond.net.au.