Pucka employee’s eclectic life’s work on display in Benalla

By Simon Ruppert

Aug 2, 2023

Former Puckapunyal Environmental Ofiicer, Max Harker, was a collector and maker of marvellous things.

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Benalla is currently home to his life’s work. One of the most extraordinary and eclectic exhibitions you are likely to see in your lifetime.

Titled ‘One Man’s Life Unfinished’ it will be on display at the old NEA building at 126-128 Bridge St East for 12 months.

The collection has been curated by Max’s brother Brian Harker and it’s so comprehensive it would be easier to list things that are not included than those that are.

Seaside: Max Harker's collection features a variety of sea shells. Photo by Simon Ruppert

You will see the most amazing collections of crystals and geodes, a range of sea shells, a photography exhibition, hundreds of pastel drawings, wind chimes made from repurposed army equipment, a collection of old bottles and jars, an extensive stamp collection, science equipment, photographic equipment and much, much more.

The only way to appreciate this incredible exhibition and find out about the man who dedicated his life to collating it, is to pop along and see it for yourself.

The Ensign was in there for maybe half an hour, and we are certain there will be bits we missed.

Repurposed: One of Max Harker's hobbies was making wind chimes out of old army equipment. Photo by Simon Ruppert

Mr Harker said when his brother passed the family stored his collection for safekeeping, all of which was in his Euroa home.

“Max was born in Major Plains, between Devenish and Dookie and was in the army most of his working life, more than 36 years,” Brian said.

“He finished his career over at Puckapunyal, where he was the environmental officer. He was at Watsonia Barracks before then.

“So people will also see army memorabilia, and things made from recycled items from the barracks.”

Artistic: Max Harker painted, drew, knitted and crocheted whenever he could. Photo by Simon Ruppert

Outside of work Max had varied interests and his desire to collect, collate and document the things he loved has led to this extraordinary exhibition.

We cannot recommend this one enough.

The exhibition is open Wednesday - Sunday from 10am - 4pm.

It is $5 entry. However if it’s an educational visit, Brian said he won’t charge people who want to come and study.