The Heidelberg School Art Foundation

The Old England Hotel is a proud sponsor of the Heidelberg School Art Foundation and supports its Vision for an Art Gallery & Museum Complex to be built as an iconic building and landmark in Heidelberg. This will be dedicated to the artistic heritage of the Australian impressionism movement – which had its beginnings in Heidelberg and surrounding areas. The Foundation believes this project will ensure the preservation of a significant cultural and artistic heritage, which began with the artists colonies of the “Heidelberg School artists”, when they first promoted the Australian landscape and way of life through their work, not only to the world but to Australians themselves.

In September 2006, the Foundation held the inaugural “Heritage Art Festival”, which comprised of an art exhibition and competition, a series of lectures, a corporate breakfast with the Foundation’s chairman, Professor Geoffrey Blainey AC, and a scholarship program for high school students.

The Old England was a major sponsor of this event and continues to support the work of the Foundation in gaining government and private funds to achieve its vision.

The now Premier of Victoria Mr John Brumby, officially opening the Heritage Art Festival

Professor Geoffrey Blainey, Patron of the HSAF, speaking at the corporate breakfast held at the Old England Hotel, part of the inaugural Heritage Art Festival.

For more information go to heidelbergschoolart.com

 

The Old England Sponsors Banyule Festival 2009

The Old England Hotel has been a significant sponsor of the annual Banyule Festival since 1992. As an associate sponsor, the Old England is supporting Banyule Council in bringing together a diverse and exciting community festival. 

For the sixth year , the Old England is sponsoring the Festival's Outdoor Sculpture Award and Exhibition, supporting the region's connection with the arts.  This is a rare opportunity for artists to exhibit their work in a public forum and it provides a synergy between past artistic movements centred around Heidelberg, while giving it a more contemporary connection. 

Further information from Banyule Council - 9490 4222 www.banyule.vic.gov.au

 

The RACV Centenary Hill Climb: Heidelberg 1904 - 2004

On Sunday 23rd of May, some 30 pre1905 cars and motorcycles took part in a historic re-enactment, in Burgundy Street, Heidelberg. The original event was held on May 28th 1904 as part of a series of Hill Climb contests organised by the Automobile Club of Victoria, "in order to demonstrate the ease with which motors can climb, even steep grades".

,p>An estimated crowd of 7,000 came to watch this historic event and were entertained by the sight of meticulously maintained veteran cars and their owners many of whom dressed in period costume and literally transformed Burgundy into a colourful picture of yesteryears. The crowd was entertained watching these beautiful cars put through their paces as they hurtled their way up Burgundy Street in a series of heats, as they did 100 years ago. Penny farthing cyclists also took part in the program and many other veteran cars were on display for public viewing. It was a fantastic day for the whole community to enjoy.

The Old England was proud to be a primary sponsor of this event and hosted an afternoon tea for over 100 participating drivers and co-drivers after the event - once again, re-enacting the events of 1904.

 

Other Charities and non-profit organisations:

The Old England supports many local charities, non-profit organisations, schools and sporting clubs in their fundraising activities. These include:

• The Lions House Foundation
• Banksia Palliative Care Services
• Banyule Council's Family Services - Holiday Camps for disadvanted children
• Austin Health
• Olivia Newton-John Cancer Centre Appeal
• Very Special Kids
• Royal Women’s Hospital
• Many primary, secondary and pre-schools
• Football clubs, Bowling Clubs and others