HERITAGE AWARD 2017 awarded to each of the 3 authors by Mornington Peninsula Shire and National Trust, “for co-research and publication of ‘RANELAGH – A Special Place’, a record of the heritage significance of the Ranelagh Estate Mt Eliza”.
COMMENDATION in the Victorian Community History Awards 2017, History Publication Award category. “This award recognises outstanding publications on Victorian history. Commendation awarded to RANELAGH – A Special Place”.
A very handsome and detailed publication. Congratulations on the book, I appreciate how much work has gone into this book. Tony Lee, Robin Boyd Foundation
It is not only eloquently and beautifully written, but incredibly interesting and informative. Congratulations! Alison Alexander
Just wanted to say how much I enjoyed reading this book. I think the authors have captured the spirit of not only the place, but also the ideals of those whose vision it was all those years ago. Carolyn Parker, Mount Eliza
My book was delivered today, and I must say it is amazing! Thank you to all who organised it, the contributors, authors and others. I am proud to own it. Derek Lippner
Congratulations on a magnificent publication. I would like to purchase another 4 copies as presents. Pam Hall
Full of intriguing history and anecdotes, and wonderfully generous with illustrations throughout. Hamish Ramsay, Adelaide
Excellent and fascinating. So much I didn’t know. The addition of VCAT cases very useful too. I congratulate all the contributors for their excellent research. Jane Hildebrandt
Review published in the National Trust of Australia (Victoria) magazine, issue 10, Spring/Summer 2017: Ranelagh, A Special Place charts the social history, heritage and future of Ranelagh in Mount Eliza, the designed garden estate of Walter Burley Griffin and Marion Mahony Griffin. With a focus on the rich social significance of this garden suburb, the book celebrates the successes of the estate, and investigates the challenges it has faced with over-development. The holistic approach taken to writing the book weaves a compelling dialogue about the importance of Ranelagh, from house names to architectural styles, marketing campaigns to personal accounts, fencing formats to driveway treatments. A real strength of the authors’ collaboration is the attention given to community involvement in the protection and conservation of this unique suburb, through reasoned debate and grassroots action. With grassroots community groups continuing to play an important role in heritage protection, this book will stand testament to what can be achieved with focused advocacy work. Whether you aspire to live in a well-considered suburb, have the skills to propose one, or are an admirer from afar, this book will inspire continuing scrutiny of how and why we should design suburbs for sustainable communities. Jessica Hood, Community Advocate – Environmental Heritage