“Psst, want to know a secret?” I ask. The Melbourne Club stands before us a bastion of history and exclusivity. Founded in 1838, the Melbourne Club is more than just a building. It’s a symbol of Australia’s British social heritage.
Let’s step back in time. Imagine 23 gentlemen gathering on December 17, 1838. They met to establish what would become the Melbourne Club. Initially, they used John Pascoe Fawkner’s hotel. It stood at the corner of Collins Street and Market Street.
In 1859, the Melbourne Club found its permanent home. The purpose-built premises at 36 Collins Street were designed by Leonard Terry. Terry chose the Renaissance Revival style. The Melbourne Club expanded in 1885. Terry and Oakden added a dining room wing. This wing featured a bay window.
Inside the Melbourne Club, you’d find many rooms. There’s a library for quiet contemplation. The main dining room hosts grand meals. Private dining rooms offer intimacy. A breakfast room starts the day right. Billiard rooms provide recreation. The lawn room and bedrooms offer relaxation.
The Melbourne Club is listed on the Victorian Heritage Register. This recognizes its historical and architectural importance. At the rear, a private courtyard garden offers tranquility. Arborist-horticulturalist John Fordham maintains it. The garden hosts parties and functions. It boasts the largest plane tree in Victoria.
Membership in the Melbourne Club is exclusive. It’s believed to be around 1500. The Melbourne Club has connections to similar clubs around Victoria. Members were often of Anglo-Celtic background.
For many years the Melbourne Club was male-only. To join, one needs sponsorship from several members. A single “no” vote can block an application. The joining fee can be substantial. Annual fees can also be quite high.
Notable members have included Governors-General. Sir Isaac Isaacs, Richard Casey, and Ninian Stephen were all members. Governors of Victoria like Henry Winneke and James Gobbo also belonged. Chief Justices of Australia, such as John Latham and Owen Dixon, were members too. Prime Ministers like Viscount Bruce of Melbourne and Malcolm Fraser were also members. The Melbourne Club has also counted prominent businessmen and artists among its ranks.
The Melbourne Club has seen its share of spirited behavior. Early members were known for duels and other antics. Over time, the Melbourne Club has grown more staid. It remains a symbol of tradition and exclusivity in Melbourne. The Melbourne Club stands as a testament to a bygone era. Its history is etched into its walls and woven into the fabric of Melbourne society.