A history of what happened on the home front during the First World War in the Yarra Valley's Shire of Lillydale. Includes the impact on local Germans, women, those on the land, school children, sport and commerce. The role of patriotic welfare groups such as the Red Cross and the Belgium Relief Fund. Significant events such as the conscription referendums, enlistment rallies and the Armistice celebrations. Notable residents such as Dame Nellie Melba, Vice Admiral Sir William Rooke Creswell and Mrs Aeneas Gunn. Life in the post-war era including the story of local soldier settlers. Maps, B&W images, appendices and index.

Includes index. Annotation.