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Melrose
137-163 Harkaway Road,HARKAWAY, Casey City

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Statement of Significance


Melrose, an imposing Victorian villa with a tower on an elevated site, built c1875 for John Edward Deeble, has regional significance as an important district landmark for more than a century and a fine example of a nineteenth century rural retreat. It is significant for its use between 1938 and 1958 as the Try Boys Home, a training farm for boys. It has associations with William Mack Forster, founder of the Try Boys Society and also of the City Newsboys Club and the Gordon Institute for Boys. The E. H. M. Ratcliffe Cottage (named after the Try Society's honorary secretary), and a number of outbuildings provide significant evidence of the property's use during the 1930s era.
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    • Physical Description 1

      Melrose - Physical Description 1

      This imposing Victorian residence with its tower and elevated position commands panoramic views towards Western Port and Port Phillip Bays and, in the distance, the Strzelecki Ranges.

      Today, despite some alterations and additions, Melrose is substantially intact providing a good example of a grand Victorian residence. The square tower positioned over the main entrance makes an imposing landmark, but overall the design is very simple with Classical ornamentation on the tower and main facade. The hip roof extends an extraordinary distance back from the facade, complete with enclosing verandah on three sides. A recent rear addition features large windows overlooking the garden. The Ratcliffe building, dairy shed, stables and garage, all dating from the 1930s Try Boys Home era, are also intact. It is set on a rural allotment of 26.51 hectares.

      Heritage Study and Grading

      Heritage Study and Grading

      Casey - Casey Heritage Study

      Author: Context Pty Ltd
      Year: 2004
      Grading: Local

      Casey - Heritage of the City of Berwick

      Author: Context Pty Ltd
      Year: 1993
      Grading:

Public contributions

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