26/02/2026
The Yarram & District Historical Society Inc. remembers with great fondness our most valued member, Bill Bodman.
As a local historian and author, Bill’s knowledge and passion for the district’s history is well known and highly regarded. Bill recognized during his time with the Society that the Historical Society needed to include recognition of the prior occupation by the Bratwoloong tribe of the Gunaikurnai people as the first inhabitants of this area many thousands of years ago. As a result, Bill with the assistance of the Society, wrote a book called, ‘Place Names of the Bratwoloong People of South Gippsland’, 2016. He reached out to Grattan Mullet of the Gunai Kurnai Land and Water Corporation at Bairnsdale whose assistance helped him greatly and along with the work of Doris and Tim Paton, the book came into fruition. The book was launched at the Society’s old rooms at the Butter Factory. Bill invited Shaun Braybook, General Manager at Wulgunggo Ngalu, to launch the book and an ‘acknowledgement to country’ was to be included. It was a proud moment for Bill, his family, and the Society.
Bill was prolific in his writing and recording of his early life and that of the district, and much of the last two years’ contributions to the Bridge newspaper, was Bill’s work. Bill of course wasn’t just about writing and remembering. He also contributed hugely to the overall running of the Historical Society, helping to preserve and care for the Society’s collection.
As a long serving Society member, and much-loved President for 4 years, Bill’s knowledge, wisdom, and gentleness will be missed. Bill was a man of integrity who contributed greatly to the Society.
Our warmest sympathies to Marg and all Bill’s family. RIP Bill.
Image 1. Lots of fun archiving the old newspapers.
Image 2. Always something to be done - treating old milk churns to keep borer at bay
Image 3. End of an era - locking up the rooms at the old museum
Image 4.Sharing knowledge when primary school students visit
