The book consists of photographs from the City of Melville’s photographic collection and pieces of historical information that share and highlight the lead up to Melville's 40 years as a City.

Mayor Russell Aubrey said the photographs used in the book celebrated what it was like to live, work and play in the Melville area. "The City of Melville has an extensive and diverse history,” he said. “The project will allow the visual heritage of Melville to be appreciated by a wider audience.”  

The book, which presents aesthetically compelling and historically relevant photographs, gives the City the opportunity to share its history with locals and visitors to the City of Melville. It has also further developed the Museums and Local History digitisation project which is working toward preserving the historical records of the City.

Curator Soula Veyradier said the publication complemented the existing historical publications and museum displays that already contribute to the Melville community. “The key to the success of the project has been in identifying significant historical photographs that relate to experiences of living in the Melville area,” she said. “The City of Melville Museum and Local History service has so far developed and produced a number of publications including three dealing with a chronological account of the area, one dealing with the local community and one focusing on the multicultural contribution to Melville.”

Preserving and making this local history accessible to a diverse audience is a key factor of the project. The photographic publication is set to appeal to a wide audience with an appreciation of the historical context in which the photos are situated in.

The City of Melville, through its Museums and Local History service, is active in preserving existing cultural heritage material and developing collections and public programs that explore diverse heritage themes.

Melville, A City in the Making will be made available through all City of Melville libraries, the Melville Discovery Centre and the Heathcote Museum and Galley.

The afternoon tea was held at the Melville Civic Centre, 10 Almondbury Road, Booragoon.