Here we are at the halfway mark of a year that is certainly flying by.

We’ve had our ups and downs with members over the last few months: the passing of our dear friend Margaret Fullard, our sympathy goes to Geoff and family; Thelma Mayze, who has spent some time in hospital – we wish Thelma a speedy recovery; and to all others on the sick list, we hope you are all on the road to good health.

On a brighter note, the Making Tracks display has finally opened and I would like to thank all who have taken part by volunteering to man the display. Many thanks to Ron for his assistance in arranging people to do this while Robena and I took a short break. Thanks also to Dawn and Ron who helped Wendy (from the Latrobe City) and me in putting up photos. The retired railway employers, the model engineers and rail historian, Barry Sykes, have contributed many collectables and photos. To all the other historical societies, thank you for the wonderful photos and stories you have given for the display. Our rail history is great in Gippsland and we have only scratched the surface with what is on display. To all these people, we extend our sincere thanks.

Lois Couch has been active in obtaining very good guest speakers for our meeting nights. We’ve had some most interesting talks on local families and events that have taken place in our town and district.

In September our Annual Dinner will be held at the Grand Junction Hotel with guest speaker Damien Tripodi, so keep this night free and join us for a great evening.

At the last meeting of the Victorian Support Group at the RHSV we were enlightened by two young ladies who are recording the day-to-day lives of senior people by videoing them in the small country town Snake Gully near Ballarat. In addition, a couple from Mornington have burnt photos to DVD and recorded voiceovers about local history - so we move into the modern age of recording our history.

Till we meet again,

Weston Bate and Jim Hood at the official opening of Making Tracks