A step back in time at the Bond Store Museum with Volunteer, Mike Leegwater
Story by Kim Parnell
Sixty nine year old Mike Leegwater has been volunteering at the Bond Store Museum in Maryborough for nearly nine years, and has seen many people pass through the doors. He particularly enjoys meeting new people from many different cultures and diverse nationalities.
Originally a ‘Dutchman’ Mike came out to Australia with his family in 1952 at the tender age of 5. He lived in Albury, Wodunga for a period of time before moving to Greta in New South Wales. When he was seven years old Mike moved to Scone, in the upper Hunter Valley, and then onto Sydney at the age of thirteen.
For the last Thirty Five years Mike and his wife of Forty years, Irene have called Tinana home. They have three grown children and three much loved Grandchildren.
All throughout his youth Mike hated History, and didn’t think it was ever going to be a useful subject to learn in his life, until many years later he read volume I and II of ‘River of Dreams’, a history of Maryborough. These books were written by acclaimed Author, Dr Tony Matthews in 1995, and proved to be a very interesting read indeed. Now whenever Mike travels or visits other regions he has a love of history and has a need to learn all he can about the places he visits.
The Bond Store Museum is a great place for the whole family to visit all throughout the year, and during the school holidays. Some exciting tours and events take place from within its walls.
On January 7th, , Tipples and Tales will be offering a tasting experience guaranteed to wake up those taste buds. Why not try some regional ports and liqueurs while nibbling on a tasty testing platter. Time: 2.30pm, Cost: $25, Bookings are essential.
January 7th, Maryborough Stories by night. This magic night begins at the Bond Store and continues through the historical streets of Maryborough. Listen and be swept away, to stories about the people and events of yesteryear. Time: 6pm, Cost: Adults $15, Child (6-17) $5 Bookings essential.
Please phone the Bond Store Museum, Wharf St, Maryborough on: 4190 5722 or the Maryborough Visitor Information Centre on 1800 214 789 to Book.
