The exhibition will be held in the Memorial Hall located at the new Dunkeld Community Centre.

An extensive array of historical photographs from 1860’s to 1990’s will be on display. RSL and Red Cross memorabilia will also be featured.

The official opening of the exhibition will be held on Friday, October 23 commencing at 7pm with entry including light refreshments and drinks. The opening will also include a dedication ceremony for the RSL Room to WWII veteran and RSL life member, Mr Henry Leech OAM.

Mr Henry Frederick Leech enlisted in the army at Hamilton in July 1941 and served in the 2/29th Infantry Battalion (part of the 8th Division’s 27th Brigade) as a Bren Gunner in Singapore and Malaya.

In February 1942, the Allied Forces in Singapore surrendered and Henry became a prisoner of war and was taken to Singapore and Burma and was put to work in Changi, Mergui and Tavoy. He was only 17 years of age. In December 1942, Henry was sent to work on the notorious Burma Railway and remained there until the end of the war, then returning to Australia via Singapore.

RSL sub-branch president, Mr Terry Noble praised Mr Leech OAM. 

“Henry has been a tremendous supporter of the Dunkeld RSL sub-branch and has served as president, secretary and treasurer and was awarded one of the league’s highest honours in 2003 - the Meritorious Service Medal,” Mr Noble said. 

“He has been involved in many local clubs and organisations and was recognised for his community service in 2009 by being awarded the Medal of the Order of Australia (OAM).”

The Dunkeld Museum celebrates its 30th anniversary this year and a commemorative cake will be cut on the night. The Dunkeld Museum held their first meeting on March 2, 1983 and the official opening of the Dunkeld Museum (in Saint Andrew’s Presbyterian church building) occurred on October 12, 1985. 

To assist with catering, tickets for the opening night may be purchased from the RSL secretary on 5573 3353 or the museum secretary on 5577 2386 before Friday, October 16. Tickets will also be available at the door.

The exhibition will be open daily from Saturday, October 24 to Sunday, November 1 from 10am to 4pm.  Daily entrance fees: $10.00 Adults and $3.00 students. This historical photographic exhibition will be held during the Royal Historical Society of Victoria’s (RHSV) History Week and the Victorian Seniors Festival. Seniors and the general public are warmly invited to attend this event. 

Concession rates are available for seniors’ bus trips. 

Copies of any of the historical photographs may be ordered from the Dunkeld Museum.