General News
25 October, 2023
Donation sees history preserved
ALMA MacDonald was an unequivocal champion of Cobden throughout her lifetime.
ALMA MacDonald was an unequivocal champion of Cobden throughout her lifetime.
Daughter Ellen Meade gifted the Cobden and District Historical Society Inc a number of pieces from her collection of historical mementos last week.
“Mum passed away two years ago today (last Wednesday),” she said.
“I’ve donated a collection of her items including photos and books.
“Mum would have loved for it to all come up here and not sit in a cupboard collecting dust or thrown away.”
Cobden and District Historical Society treasurer Jennifer Kripp thanked Mrs Meade and her family for the donation.
She said Mrs MacDonald was a long-time member of the Cobden Historical Society.
“Alma lived in Cobden most of her life and she became the first female president of Heytesbury Shire and the last Heytesbury Shire president before amalgamation to Corangamite Shire,” Mrs Kripp said.
“Alma was in many organisations in Cobden. She formed the first Girl Guides, health services charity shop with doctors wife Mrs Reid, and they lobbied for the Cobden tip to be established as the botanical gardens we enjoy today.
“Her knowledge of Cobden was enviable and an asset to our society.”
Mrs Kripp said members were also looking to expand the Cobden and District Historical Society collection.
“We would be pleased to accept any books, photos, memorabilia of Cobden and Heytesbury Shire people would like to donate to Cobden society,” she said.
“We are always wishing to add to our museum and collection.”
For more information about the society visit the Cobden and District Historical Society Inc Facebook page.