Please use this identifier to cite or link to this item: http://hdl.handle.net/1959.3/509

Title

A tradition of giving : seventy-five years of Myer family philanthropy

Author(s)

Liffman, Michael

Abstract

In the history of private philanthropy Australia has a limited tradition. The Myer family is an honourable exception. This book explores the remarkable influence of this family on the lives of so many Australians. Michael Liffman vividly brings to life Sidney Myer's classic 'rags to riches' story, which sets the foundation for four generations of Myer philanthropists. His generosity was epitomised by the legendary Christmas lunch he staged at the Melbourne Exhibition Building for 11, 000 hungry souls hard hit by the depression. As unemployment worsened Sidney Myer increased the staff in his stores and supported numerous building ventures, in order to provide employment. Sidney Myer's sons, Ken and Baillieu, continued their father's tradition and with the help of other family members, established The Myer Foundation as the leading philanthropic organisation in Australia. As the Myer family has grown in influence and number, so too has its generosity and scope of vision. The Myer Music Bowl, the Howard Florey Institute and the Asialink Centre at the University of Melbourne are all the result of its philanthropy. The Foundation has contributed to the production of music, dance, and theatre; it has encouraged and supported scholars, artists, and professionals; and has significantly supported minority and welfare groups. This book is more than a history of one family. It is a celebration of a 'tradition of giving' which has become part of the fabric of the Australian community.

Publication type

Book

Research centre

Swinburne University of Technology. Faculty of Life and Social Sciences. Institute for Social Research

Publication year

2004

Keyword(s)

Myer family;  Myer, Sidney Baevski, 1878-1934;  Sidney Myer Fund;  Myer Foundation;  Philanthropists -- Victoria -- Melbourne;  Endowments -- Victoria -- Melbourne

Publisher

Melbourne University Press

Format

248 p.

ISBN

0522850626

Publisher URL

http://www.mup.unimelb.edu.au/catalogue/0-522-85062-6.html

Peer reviewed