Summary

Three pages of personal letters or notes expressing personal frustrations about betting on horses and cards, and the disappearance of a knife or pencil (?). The first is signed 'Rastis' and addressed to 'Norm'. The two remaining pages contain abusive language and possible sexual references.

One of the letters is written on the back of a lands plan of Honuna (now Goolgowi region), New South Wales; another plan names Mallan, also in NSW. The name Gardiner (sp?) is written on the back of two of the pages, in the same hand-writing as the notes themselves.

The letter was found under the floorboards of the balcony level of the Gallery, Great Hall, Royal Exhibition Building, when replaced in 1989 as part of a restoration program. Many other items dating back to the 1940s were also found, providing an insight into the lifestyle and interests of RAAF personnel stationed in the building.

The formal wartime occupation of the Exhibition Building began in October 1940, when it was requisitioned for the RAAF under the National Security (General) Regulations. Partitioning work began in January 1941, and on 15 March the RAAF no.1 School of Technical Training was moved to the Exhibition Building from West Melbourne Technical School. Before long the Great Hall and surrounding areas were crowded with Air Force personnel. About 500 to 700 men lived there for varying periods of time; numbers peaked in 1942, when about 2000 personnel were accommodated. The central part of the building was a mess hall. The arena was occupied by a kitchen, laundry blocks, a storeroom and a playing field. The southern and eastern sides of the building were used for parades and drilling. The RAAF remained in control of the Exhibition Building until October 1946. (David Dunstan,1996, Victorian Icon)

Physical Description

Three pages of personal notes written in blue ink on the back of a town plan. Handwritten text in blue ink and blue pencil.

More Information