150 Years Stories

Had William Smith been alive today he would probably have ascribed his longevity to living an outdoors life, and eschewing tobacco and alcohol.

George Coppin was a man of influence. His career spanned politics, theatre, pharmacy, and he was keenly concerned about housing for working class families and older people. Throughout his career he met other influential individuals who had contributed greatly to the early history of the colony of Victoria.

May Hedin moved to Braeside Park in 2010 and, immediately, knew she had found her home. She has her hands in many of the village’s events and most recently, is the person behind the edible garden.

Fourteen serviced apartments were constructed in 1999, all clustered around a central garden and close to the communal dining room. Ali Gwyer is one of the residents.

Life Governor Miss Myra Roper AM was a woman ahead of her times, urging young women in 1952 to use the phone less and think more.

Lois Pitman and her friend, acclaimed Olympic athlete and military woman, Doris Carter, had much in common, including friendship, military life and Rushall Park, where they both lived in their latter years.

Olympic champion and decorated military officer Doris Carter may not be remembered by people currently living at OCAV’s Rushall Park, but the former resident’s name is carved into many history books, both in Australia and in England.

Rushall Park has been home to many actors over the decades, but it’s also had its share of political activists and veteran Melbourne communist Olga Silver is perhaps one of the better known.

Leith & Bartlett Architects continue their long-standing relationship with OCAV by being appointed architects to the Association’s latest village.