Last week dozens of history enthusiasts braved the icy weather and gathered for a day of grand opening events in Urana. The day featured the long-awaited official opening of the Dexter Horizontal Windmill as well as several exciting Urana Progress Association projects, some of which featured Frederick Fox LVO, milliner to the Royal Family and several Hollywood films. A Freddie Fox short documentary, a new book showcasing his hats and the General Store and McCaughey Memorial Hospital interactive displays were launched at the Urana Courthouse Museum.
The events not only gained interest from Urana locals, but drew a crowd from further afield such as Corowa, Wangaratta, Melbourne, Canberra, Hay, Albury and Wagga Wagga.
The day commenced with the windmill opening where attendees heard from speakers such as Karin Coghill, Secretary of Urana Inc., Federation Council Mayor Cr Pat Bourke and the windmill’s mechanic, Tim Matt on how the project was made possible by the hard work of many committed individuals. The windmill project was made possible through funding from the NSW Government’s Regional Cultural Fund.
The community came together for a delicious free lunch at the museum which led into the final part of the day’s celebrations. The Urana Progress Association launched a glossy book outlining the Frederick Fox LVO story, featuring a curated selection of hats from the 1960s onwards which form part of the Urana Courthouse Museum Collection. Attendees were also treated to the premiere of the Frederick Fox LVO short documentary.
The book and short documentary was compiled with assistance from several staff members of the Museum of Riverina, projects which were made possible with funding from a Tim Fischer AC bequest. Many members of the Fox family were present on the day as well as Tim Fischer’s siblings Carol, Vicki and Tony who officially launched the book and video.
The new display attractions of General Store and McCaughey Memorial Hospital and their collections were explored by attendees, proving to be fantastic new additions to the museum which will delight future visitors. These “buildings” were funded by a Riverina Water Community Grant with containers being supplied by David Nicolls of Rural Container Supplies in Albury. David ensured they came complete with doors, windows, skylights, lining, floors and facade structures. Volunteers added the roof, verandah iron and paint to complete the newest accession in the museum’s “outdoor village”.
The Dexter Horizontal Windmill can be viewed on Federation Way opposite the Urana Aquatic Centre. Frederick Fox LVO books are available to be purchased from the Urana Courthouse Museum for $35. The museum is located at 13 William Street, Urana and is open Tuesday 9.30 am to 3.00 pm and Saturday 10.00 am to 2.00 pm.
