North Gippsland Coursing Club Claret Jug presented by The Hon. William McCulloch, c1881

An impressive silver plated claret jug by James Dixon & Sons (Sheffield), featuring hand engraved and chased decoration adorning the body with an elaborate handle terminating to a ram's head at the rim symbolising strength and courage. Completing the design is the handle mounted with two natural bone spacers for heat protection and the lid with additional engraved decoration hosting a nicely proportioned finial.

In 1880, the North Gippsland Coursing Club (NGCC) was formed at a public meeting and it held the Australia Cup meetings on local estates in 1895, 1896, 1899 and 1902. The Gippsland Times reported a large attendance at the 1896 meeting with hares being plentiful but difficult to draw into the open despite the efforts of the beaters.

The Hon. William McCulloch: Represented Lonsdale Ward in the Melbourne City Council in 1872-76, an accomplished businessman, pastoralist and politician. In 1880-1903 he represented Eastern (Gippsland) Province in the Legislative Council, where he made arguments quietly, briefly and diplomatically. He spoke his mind, was not afraid to make clear and positive recommendations and was especially knowledgeable about sheep, cattle, rabbits, railways, horse-racing, betting and women's suffrage. He was pro-Federation and In 1890 was a prominent founder of the Pastoralists' Union in Victoria. In 1895 McCulloch was appointed minister of defence in George Turner's first administration

Provenance: A private family collection - Melbourne, Victoria.

Measurements: 37cm high

Condition: In overall good condition with no evident dents or restoration. There are surface scratches, tarnishing around edges and general surface wear commensurate with age.