Yarra Ranges Opens it Doors to the Public

After years of planning (the first serious discussions began in 1992) the newest museum in
the country is finally open. Director Maggie Solly and her team have worked tirelessly
towards this day. After the welcome to country by Aunty Joy Murphy, the speeches and finally
the ribbon cutting, the enthusiastic guests were allowed into the body of the building.

But of course I would be lying if I didn't say that I was there to enjoy the release of
our little digital story, Edith's Lyrebird. Commissioned by the museum and made in
collaboration with Malcolm McKinnon we have been waiting for months for the film to be
available for general viewing. It was a treat to finally see a small audience chuckling away
at the antics of 'James'. And I am so proud of the music arranged and performed by
my buddies, Greg O'Leary and Michael Stewart from the Newport Fiddle and Folk Club. Now
we have had a taste of movie making, we would love to make more.

The Dame Nellie Melba collection is one of the draw cards to this museum and visitors will
not be disappointed when they see the Melba case -the woman travelled and dressed in style!
I was struck by one of the labels in the Melba section '... she was the first singer in
international standing to broadcast on radio.' Lyrebird James, the star of our little
film was the first lyrebird to be broadcast on the radio - a beautiful coincidence.
Learn more: Yarra Ranges Regional Museum