Pics from the Past | Luscious fruit

He spoke in picturesque language about the Goulburn Valley, which produces the luscious peaches, apricots, plums and pears so highly valued by British housewives.

Victorian Agent-General Sir Louis Bussau emphasised how fortunate the Goulburn Valley was, with its excellent irrigation system enabling the cultivation of 20,000 acres of orchards and the export of tens of millions of cans of fruit to Britain.

In extending greetings from Shepperton, England, Sir Louis also referred to the town’s fascinating history — noting that it was at this location that Julius Caesar was said to have crossed the Thames.

A number of Shepparton district servicemen also sent greetings to their friends and families back home. (The Argus, 1943)