Charles Verso, of 'Versdale' Nutfield, kept diaries of his daily activities from December 1901 up to the time of his death in June 1924. His wife, Anne Shiel Verso, died in 1929. Charles and Anne's grand daughter Ethel Gwenda ('Gwen') Halliley, daughter of their fifth son Allan Joseph John ('Coon') Verso and Helen Ethel Murphy, has preserved the diaries which provide an interesting insight into the labour intensive industry of a family of orchardists and an important record of a developing community.

The pocket-size note books remained in pigeon holes in a corner of the living room at 'Versdale' until 1961 when they were given to Gwen by Cecil ('Cess') Verso after the death of his sister Constance ('Connie'). A disastrous fire, caused by a spark from a smouldering pine log burnt down the old 'Versdale' homestead in 1967. The interpretation of the handwriting presented a challenge in many instances. Local knowledge and familiarity with the subject matter was of great assistance. Gwen proof read the final copy and was able to make a number of corrections and interpretations of entries, which may otherwise have remained a puzzle.

The diaries provide a personal record and reference in relation to many community events and activities. Of particular note is the purchase and development of the Memorial Park at Hurstbridge, where the Ben Frilay Oval is now located. The park stands as a memorial to both the World War I 'diggers' of the district and the community spirit of the pioneers who set the land aside for the use of future generations. As suggested by Charles Verso at a meeting of the Hurst's Bridge Memorial Park Committee held on 25 October 1921, there should be 'a proper board at the entrance denoting that it was the memorial park'.

Bruce G. Draper
26 September 2002--More to follow