The Upper Murray Historical Society has celebrated a landmark year, capped by the recent installation of a new memorial board for Jack Riley at the Corryong Cemetery – a tribute that reflects both the region’s rich history and the dedication of the volunteers who preserve it.

Much of the year’s activity was sparked by Corryong’s 150th anniversary celebrations in July, prompting extensive research and renewed exploration of the district’s past.

This work resulted in striking artworks blending historic and modern images of Corryong, along with a comprehensive timeline of the town’s history.

Volunteers also completed and edited missing chapters of Jean Carmody’s historical research, safeguarding important local records for future generations.

History was brought to life for younger audiences with the launch of ‘The Colt from Old Regret’ by Dianne Wolfer and Erica Wagner, while research contributions informed the heritage street signs and walking trail around Corryong.

The society’s work extended into major community events with the annual historical play at the Man From Snowy River Festival and the museum welcoming thousands of visitors throughout the year, sharing Upper Murray stories with locals and tourists alike.

One of the year’s most popular projects was the creation of a commemorative tea towel featuring surnames from the 1903 Federal Electoral Rolls of the Upper Murray. Showcasing more than 230 family names from both sides of the border, the tea towel offers a unique snapshot of the community at the time of Federation and is available at the Man from Snowy River Museum or online, with proceeds supporting ongoing preservation work.

The year concluded with the installation of a memorial board for Jack Riley at the Corryong Cemetery, telling the true story of an Irish orphan who survived the Potato Famine and later inspired The Man from Snowy River. The board honours both the legend and the man behind it.

Adding to this momentum, the society has recently secured a grant to enhance the Jack Riley display at the Man from Snowy River Museum, ensuring this important story continues to be shared.

Run entirely by volunteers, the Upper Murray Historical Society remains at the heart of preserving, interpreting and celebrating the history of the Upper Murray.

This article appeared in Corryong Courier, 18 December 2025.