Olive Holttum (Mellor) paved the way for full-time women students at Burnley Horticultural College by persuading the Minister of Agriculture to give her special permission to become a full-time student.

In "Everylady's Journal", 1 Jan., 1927, "Wilma" writes: Despite ridicule and opposition, this pioneer spirit did the course and so efficiently that she was made an instructress in horticulture at the college. In June, 1916, full-time classes for women students were an accomplished fact.

Mellor taught at Burnley during Walling's student days and is quoted as saying she designed over 500 garden plans. Mellor replaced Walling as a contributor to the "Australian Home Beautiful" in the 1930s. Mellor is the author of the following two books:

"Complete Australian Gardener Illustrated", Melbourne, Colorgravure Publications, [1952?],SLT 635.90994 M48C
"The Garden Lovers' Log", Melbourne, Robertson & Mullens, (Melbourne, Brown, Prior, Anderson), [1940?]

Notes:


"This book, inspired and organized by Mrs. Joseph Levi for all those who find peace in a garden, is dedicated by her to the men of the A.I.F. 1914 and 1940."
"To aid the Red Cross."