The Lorne Howell Family

Hubert and Rhita Howell, moved to Lorne in the late 1920’s from Ballarat. They lived at “Moogoogong” in a home which previously belonged to Mr and Mrs George Armytage family at 152 Smith Street. They started a small business renting, buying and selling holiday homes. This business existed for over 40 years prior to becoming the forerunner of Lorne Real Estate which is now Great Ocean Road Real Estate, Lorne.

Hubert Howell was an organist at the Lorne Anglican church from 1929 to 1958. There is a memorial window gifted by the Howell family above the little organ. Hubert had a wonderful baritone voice. Accompanied by his organ playing he contributed to the music over nearly 30 years at All Saints. Betty Howell was also a gifted pianist and cellist and in her early days played the latter with the Melbourne Symphony Orchestra for a short period.

Ian Stribling, Betty Stribling (nee Howell), Rhita Howell, Mrs Lambeth, 1934

Hubert and Rhita Howell’s daughter, Betty Howell, married Kenneth Stribling, and had three sons Ian, Neville, and David Stribling.

c1920s, Moogoogong, 152 Smith Street Lorne.

In the photo above, we can see the Howell family on the balcony of Moogoogong. Second from the left Betty Howell (later Betty Stribling), Betty’s brothers Bob and Ted Howell standing in front outside the balcony and parents Rhita and Hubert Howell. Moogoogong currently owned by Tom Howell, cousin of David Stribling.