"Even when we consider how long we will live, social network studies have shown that a large network later in life increases our survival by 22 per cent. With such profound implications, to be more conscious of our network and our friendships would seem to be wise. Of course, such wisdom has existed in anecdotal form for centuries ('choose your friends wisely'), but network science is making it harder and harder to ignore."
This 2016 article made me think of Lilydale social networks in days gone by. It makes me think of the older people I know who live long lives. Australian country people are usually incredibly sociable, they like people, even though some have a reputation
for shyness.
In just about every article I read about Lilydale pre-WW2, the names of the old established families recur again and again. People were deeply and daily engaged with each other in community efforts of all sorts. They knew about each other and came running in times of crisis small or large. It was still the case in the 1960s and I know many people try - despite the hypnotic tv, the fast cars and good roads that make other places more accessible - to keep alive that sense of active, connected community and mutual help. Young Dr Steven Davis of RMIT reckons we are all wise to do so and smart not to lose it.
This 1930 article exemplified for me how all those old Lilydale families gave time, money and goodwill in an endeavour for the common good, the bush nursing scheme, even when times were tough.
LILYDALE BUSH NURSING SCHEME
(May 1930)
At the last meeting of the Lilydale Council it was decided that the Warden (Councillor L. A. Procter) confer with the local committee of the Bush Nursing Scheme and discuss with them the future control of the scheme. The meeting was held on Monday evening in the council chambers. Mr. W. C. Sulzberger presided, and the large attendance of local citizens and representatives of Karoola, Tunnel and Bangor was an encouraging feature.
Amongst those present were: Councillors L. A. Procter (Warden), F. Kelp, C. W. McCarthy, Charles Haas, Sister C. A. Stammer (supervisory nurse), Sister D. M. Stuart (nurse in charge of the Lilydale district), Rev. W. C. Brenton, Mrs. R. A. Gardam, Mrs. W. Walker, Mr. H. Haas, Jun., Mr. G. F. McCarthy (Karoola), H. Haas, jun. (Tunnel), Messrs. M. Mackey, J. Griffin, J. Watkins (Bangor), and Mr. R. L. Bardenhagen, president of the Lilydale branch of the Returned Soldiers' League. Apologies were received from Mrs. John Keogh, Lebrina, and the Rev. M. J. Stephens and Mr. R. A. Gardam.
The Warden at the invitation of the president, addressed the meeting and outlined the views of the council.
There seemed to be a feeling among councillors that the people in the central portion of the municipality, who were receiving the benefits of the scheme, were not taking sufficient interest, in it. The fees at the end of each month were nearly all unpaid, and in the opinion of the council, not sufficient assistance was received in this regard. The council suggested that a local committee might take complete control of the scheme.
The council clerk (Mr. W. Wilson) explained the financial position, the question of transport, and the difficulties of collecting fees. The duplication of insurance was discussed and Sister Stammer expressed the view of the Health Department in
connection with this matter. Sister Stammer also stated that the council had carried out the scheme very efficiently, and she would like to see them carry on the work.
Rev. W. C. H. Brenton moved-"That a letter of appreciation be forwarded to the council for the manner in which they had carried on the work. That they be asked to continue to do so." The motion was seconded by Mr. M. Collins, and carried unanimously.
The following resolution was also carried unanimously: "That the committee be reformed with all those present as members and Messrs. W. C. Sulzberger and H. Wilson, the president and secretary." Mr. M. Collins was appointed treasurer in place of Mr. W.B. Viney, who is leaving the district. The president, secretary and treasurer, with Mr. D. Whiting and Mr. Brenton were appointed an executive. It was decided that the executive meet monthly and that the council be requested to appoint representatives of the council to meet them with a view of helping in the administration of the scheme.
The arrangement for the local committee to raise £40 a year was confirmed, and if the whole amount of £40 could not be raised by June 30, the council be asked to accept £20 before that date and £60 next year. Collectors were appointed for Karoola. Tunnel,
Bangor and Lebrina. Collecting for Lilydale, Mr. H. Wilson collected a substantial sum in the meeting.
Cr. C. Haas moved.-"That a record of appreciation be recorded in the minutes of the very fine work performed by Sister Stuart since she has been stationed at Lilydale." He gave instances of her very self-sacrificing work, which had gained her the esteem of the district. The motion was seconded by Mr. Brenton, and carried.
LILYDALE. (1930, May 29). Examiner (Launceston, Tas. : 1900 - 1954), p. 5 Edition: DAILY. Retrieved January 10, 2016, from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article51664666