One of regional Victoria's most significant local history projects has received further recognition this month with a Civic Reception hosted by Mildura Rural City Council.
Mallee Living Histories is a widely recognised project that captures the memories of older Mallee residents living in aged care or living independently in Mallee communities.
The project's writers - all volunteers - visit the storytellers and help craft a memoir which is published, both in hard cover books and now online, ensuring that precious memories are preserved for generations to come.
Mildura Mayor Liam Wood said 59 memoirs have so far been recorded and published, with at least 14 more set to be added before the end of the year as part of the ongoing project.
A searchable database of these stories is now available, free of charge, at malleelivinghistories.com.au.
"This really is a landmark initiative in terms of preserving the valuable histories of a generation who shaped the communities of northwest Victoria," Cr Wood said.
"From a community perspective, this project delivers on so many fronts.
"It enhances the self-esteem and wellbeing of those whose experiences and stories form the basis of Mallee Living Histories, while at the same providing their children, grandchildren and great grandchildren with so much to be proud of.
"Importantly, it shines a new light on the value of elderly residents to our community."
Cr Wood said other benefits included positively influencing the future training of doctors and personal care staff following the involvement of Monash Rural Clinical School.
"Monash Clinical School has supported the initiative since its inception in 2019," the Mayor said.
"The school's involvement has led to changes in the training of undergraduate doctors in Mildura with students now required to spend time in aged care facilities.
"The Monash research illustrated the importance of personal engagement with residents in the pursuit of better outcomes in health and well-being.
"The findings have also led to changes in the work of caregivers who are now being encouraged to know more about the lives of those for whom they care."
Mallee Living Histories has attracted numerous accolades since its inception, including
Council's 2021 Australia Day Award for Community Event or Project of the Year.
This month's Civic Reception was attended by many of the volunteer writers as well as those who provided funding for the website.
Councillors and staff from both Mildura and Wentworth Shire Councils were also present to celebrate the importance of the project.
"It was great be able to provide further recognition of this significant project and to thank everyone involved for not only envisaging the initiative but continuing to deliver it," Cr Wood said.
"By doing so, they're creating a lasting legacy for our region which will endure for decades to come."
