The Collection of the Late Bruce McBrien, OAM (1926-2013): Part 1

From the time of his birth to his passing this year, Bruce McBrien was steeped in the cultural and social history of Melbourne.  From 1929 to 1956, his father, L.H McBrien, was secretary of the Victorian Football League and was instrumental in the purchase of the League’s first headquarters, Harrison House, at 31 Spring Street, Melbourne, so named after Henry Harrison, an early contributor to the formulation of the rules for Australia Rules Football.

Bruce McBrien’s passion for Melbourne and its social history led to his appointment as the first curator/manager of the National Trust property, Rippon Lea, a position he held for seventeen years.

Bruce’s creativity found its expression in music theatre, an interest he pursued throughout his life, culminating in his foundation of the Music Theatre Guild in 1986 and in 2000, he was presented with the Medal of the Order of Australia for his services to music theatre.

The items presented here were judged as representative of Bruce McBrien’s love of theatre, culture and all things Melbourne.  A further selection of items from the collection of the late Bruce McBrien will be offered in the Classic Furniture, Objects and Collectables Auction on Sunday 27th October, 2013.Catalogue for part 1 online Wednesday 9th October 2013