GRAEME Stoney will lead the Mansfield Historical Society for another term hoping to see the museum opened by the end of 2025 during his leadership.

The Society held its AGM recently where about 30 members and guests attended.

In his report he outlined progress on the building and fundraising to enable to museum to be fitted out for displays.

“The basic building is now completed and locked up,” he announced.

“We have a current promotion of named pavers currently running to raise more funds which will see the entrance courtyard paved.

“Being well supported this indicates again the Mansfield communities’ support for this new museum.

“We have currently in the bank for the museum fitout project almost $300,000 – approximately half of what is needed to complete this part of the overall project.”

In conjunction with Mansfield Shire Council, the society recently assessed several professional consultants, with one to be chosen and an announcement forthcoming the near future.

He said the museum project would not have occurred without the strong support of the shire including previous mayors, James Tehan and Steve Rabie, who have helped in leading the charge implemented by shire CEO Kirsten Alexander and her executive.

Mr Stoney went on to acknowledge many who have been dedicated to helping the society in its progress and in particular the museum.

He also acknowledged the loss of two valued members, Sue Gardner and Frank Gray.

Apart from the ongoing work put in by many members the society also acquired possession of the original ‘Super Shed’ in the Railway Precinct which will be used for storage of artifacts for future exhibition.

“When we took possession, Russell Jones, almost on his own, began to prepare the shed for use – a mighty effort by Russell,” Mr Stoney said.

Cr James Tehan was invited to conduct the election of office bearers for the coming year.

Graeme Stoney was re-elected, unopposed, as president, Malcolm Kinloch has taken on the role of treasurer (taking over through the year from former treasurer Peter Gardner), vice president will be held by Jenny Delaforce and a new secretary was appointed – Dianne Williams.

Former secretary, Ann Ware, will take on a new position in the new year – yet to be announced.

Committee members will comprise Geri Allen, Bernie Anstee, Maureen Davies, Clint Desmond, Kevin Hogarth, Russell Jones, Susan Kinloch, Peter Mahoney, Neil O’Halloran, Emma Oliver, Colyn Ranken, Julie Warren and Tim Watson.

Two new committee members were welcomed; Pam Zierk-Mahoney and Gwen Cornelious.

Two life memberships were presented – the first to Russell Jones in recognition of his dedication and hard work in maintaining buildings and contribution to restoration of carriages and sheds throughout many years, along with his keen interest in preserving the history of the Mansfield District.

The second Life Membership went to Maureen Davies, also for her dedication to the Society of ‘too many years to count’ according to her upon receiving her certificate and badge of honour.

Guest speaker for the afternoon was Brigadier David Westphalen who spoke on his assignments to Afghanistan during the peacekeeping times for the Australian Defence Forces.

The Historical Society still retains The Station until it moves to the new Museum some time in the new year which will share space with the Information Centre which will also occupy the premises.

The Station is open Friday through to Sundays from 10am to 3pm each day.

Visitors are welcome to view the current displays both in the Station and in the railway carriages on the Midland Highway at the entrance to town.