The Other Side Of The Same Coin: What Was Happening Behind The Facades During These Times
Ken's reminiscence, and what was told to him through his job of selling papers as a lad, occurred in a time when post-war sensitive men were trying to ensure women resumed the roles they had had prior to WWII - that of apron wearing, meal preparing, drudgery bearing and child rearing duties. This was an era when a female still lost her name after marriage and became Mrs. Keith Jones - all very proper as per the societal decrees of then, but all very dismissive of the rights and recognition of the fairer sex.
The healing of the men in many cases was apparently dependent on the wounding of women on their return home. This is something our nation is still addressing in terms of removing glass ceilings on one hand and ensuring men don't bring up their little boys to physically abuse women on the other hand. Determined to shake off a few thousand years of caveman type attitudes and what they have rent upon our society, successive governments have introduced successive programs, but we still live in a society where many, as individuals and as 'bully-boy' groups who benefit from such practices, are ever determined to keep women and girls 'in their place' - showing the better side and definition of gentility has been usurped.
Women running hotels in Australia commenced with colonisation; it was a means, along with running a boarding house, for a widow to provide for children. There is a stigma that has always attached to such a profession though, and remains in many a place. Of course every woman wants to be raised as a princess and get to live her life as a queen - but any lady, whether a mother and a worker, or both at the same time, also can be a lifelong queen and princess as well as a hard and capable worker - in fact most real life princesses and queens do just that - all their lives
Although Charlotte Boutin was an original Narrabeen Hotel lady, and thrived in the business without need of a man and clearly fobbed off any attempts to subjugate her, a few decades on, on the verge of 1950, renowned for its suppression of women and making sure everyone stuck to 'men first' and 'little girls should be seen and not heard' credo, an element at Narrabeen seemed determined for a man to be in charge of the Narrabeen Hotel that had been run by a woman for 11 years. Through 11 hard years from the end of the The Depression, through beer restrictions during WWII and out the other end, when everything was still rationed and any business staying open did so, in some part large or small, through the sacrifice and generosity of its proprietor.
A campaign to drive her out commenced and proceeded - some of it entailing actions that would land any other person in gaol. Such a 'tiff' is the what sells newspapers and this was covered in great detail, showing an apparent obstinacy on both sides amid post war recovery when many men needed to meet in places where they could talk to those of similar experiences and have a quiet drink - or two, or three, or more. Thus the advent of RSL clubs in our areas and in places where they were absent, the local hotel was the place to meet, to commiserate (although many men, as with all other conflicts, never discussed what they had seen with their wives and family) to allow yourself to exhale as a manly man, and be men together.
PICKETS AT SEASIDE HOTEL
Twelve men today picketed the Royal Hotel, Narrabeen, because they said they did not like the attitude of the licensee. On Saturday a cracker was thrown into the public bar of the hotel and the manageress closed the bar. The licensee was not available for comment today.
PICKETS AT SEASIDE HOTEL (1949, May 2). The Sun (Sydney, NSW : 1910 - 1954), p. 3 (LATE FINAL EXTRA). Retrieved fromhttp://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article229767866
PICKETING OF HOTEL
Patrons of the Royal Hotel, Narrabeen, picketed the hotel yesterday. The licensee stopped serving beer on Saturday after a fire-cracker was set off in the bar. This picture, taken during the rush hour last night, shows the few who ignored the pickets and had their beer in comfort. PICKETING OF HOTEL (1949, May 3). The Sydney Morning Herald (NSW : 1842 - 1954), p. 4. Retrieved from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article18113875
Licensee Draws Line At Bungey In Bar
A "black" ban on beer and the posting of pickets caused a stir at the Royal Hotel, Narrabeen, yesterday. Origin of the ban is an incident in the hotel on Saturday. A large "bunger," or basketbomb, was thrown into the crowded bar and exploded.
The licensee, Mrs. Mary Ryan, who has strict views on any form of horseplay in her hotel, immediately turned off the beer and closed the bar.
Disgruntled drinkers among her clientele then declared the hotel "black."
All day yesterday pickets loitered about the gateways, under the watchful eye of a group of police, led by Sergeant Laird, of Narrabeen, and the Manly District Licensing Officer, Sergeant Arthurson.
Many prospective customers were turned away. Near closing time there was only a handful of drinkers instead of the usual six-deep crowd around the bar.
Mrs. Ryan said last night: "I have conducted the hotel for 11 years on decent lines, and am not going to be browbeaten by hooligans.
"I have a code of rules for behaviour in the bar. It has to be obeyed or I refuse to serve."
Sergeant Arthurson said Mrs. Ryan's conduct of the hotel was a fine example to any hotelkeeper. The police supported her attitude against hooliganism.
Spokesman for the pickets, Mr. Arthur Smith, said Mrs. Ryan had adopted "a high-handed attitude."
A meeting would be held in Narrabeen to-night to discuss the ban.
Licensee Draws Line At Bungey In Bar (1949, May 3). The Sydney Morning Herald (NSW : 1842 - 1954), p. 3. Retrieved fromhttp://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article18113901
Terms To Lift Hotel Ban Proposed
Narrabeen beer strikers met in the open air last night and drew up,terms for lifting their ban on the Royal Hotel. They appointed a delegation of six men to interview the police and try to arrange a meeting with the licensee, Mrs. Mary Ryan.
They will ask for:
Reopening of portion of the bar closed for some years to provide more room at rush hours;, reopening of a second lounge.
"More civility" by the staff to regular customers.
A ticket system for rationing bottled beer to regular customers.
A spokesman for the strikers said after the meeting that, if Mrs. Ryan did not consent to an interview or rejected the terms, the strike would continue.
Regular drinkers at the hotel declared it "black" after Mrs. Ryan turned off the beer at noon on Saturday. She did this after a large firework "bunger" exploded in the bar. Yesterday only a handful of people braved the pickets to enter the bar of the hotel.
("Picketing Illegal"-Page 4.)
Terms To Lift Hotel Ban Proposed (1949, May 4). The Sydney Morning Herald (NSW : 1842 - 1954), p. 3. Retrieved September 14, 2017, fromhttp://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article27577951
Picketing A Hotel Illegal, Says Court
The Court of Criminal Appeal yesterday ruled that it is illegal to picket a hotel and tell intending customers the beer is "black."
In a reserved judgment, the Court dismissed an appeal by Nicholas Van der Lubbe against his conviction and fine of £5 for having picketed The Lakes Hotel, Gardener's Road, Mascot, on February 17, 1948.
Van der Lubbe was convicted under Section 545B of the Crimes Act on a charge of having "watched and beset" the hotel, with the object of compelling the licensee, Joseph Murphy, to keep open for the sale of liquor though he had a legal right to abstain from doing so.
The appeal came before the Court on a case stated by Judge Barton, to whom Van der Lubbe had appealed against his conviction by a magistrate.
Judge Barton asked the Court of Criminal Appeal to decide whether he was legally right in deciding to dismiss the appeal on the ground that the "watching and besetting" was wrongful and without legal authority.
The Chief Justice, Sir Frederick Jordan, in his judgment, said the authorities took Judge Barton's view that Van der Lubbe's action was one against which Murphy could take legal action. Van der Lubbe was chairman of a public meeting which, in January, 1948, declared black three hotels, including The Lakes, and was one of the pickets which tried to persuade customers not to enter them.
Mr. Justice Street and Mr. Justice Maxwell were with the Chief Justice on the Bench. Picketing A Hotel Illegal, Says Courts (1949, May 4). The Sydney Morning Herald (NSW : 1842 - 1954), p. 4. Retrieved from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article27577923
NO PICKETS POSTED
There were no pickets out-side the Royal Hotel, Narrabeen, yesterday. The hotel was declared "black" on Saturday when the licensee, Mrs. M. E. Ryan, cut off beer supplies at noon after somebody exploded a large fireworks "bunger" in the bar.
Pickets had been posted out-side the hotel throughout Saturday afternoon, Monday, and Tuesday to prevent intending drinkers from going in.
In dealing with another matter, the Court of Criminal Appeal held on Tuesday that hotel picketing was illegal.
NO PICKETS POSTED (1949, May 5). The Sydney Morning Herald (NSW : 1842 - 1954), p. 3. Retrieved from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article18114096
ALP Men Defy Ban On Hotel
WHEN customers declared the Royal Hotel, Narrabeen, "black," two leading members of the local ALP branch were among the few who defied the "black" ban. A photograph in Tuesday's Herald showed that of four patrons drinking in the hotel in spite of the ban, two were leading lights in the local ALP branch. Customers object to the licensee turning off the beer on the slightest excuse.
Last Saturday, when the beer was stopped after a fire-cracker had been let off in the bar, customers refused to leave, and formed a committee which decided to declare the hotel "black" and to picket it. It has been decided to circulate petition lists asking for:
• Opening of the whole bar at busy hours (at present part of the bar is kept closed).
• Tickets to be issued for bottled beer at week-end.
• Beer to be sold over the bar at the correct times.
• Civility to be extended to all patrons.
ALP Men Defy Ban On Hotel (1949, May 7). Tribune (Sydney, NSW : 1939 - 1976), p. 6. Retrieved from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article209388665
Narrabeen Hotel War Warming Up
At a meeting at Narrabeen yesterday 200 people decided to oppose renewal in June of Mrs. Mary Ryan's licence to conduct the local hotel. They opened a fighting fund and collected £40 to brief counsel.
THIS was the latest development in a battle which has been raging since last Saturday, when someone tossed a lighted 'bunger' into the bar. In retaliation, Mrs. Ryan turned the beer off and closed the bars. Some of the customers then held a meeting outside and decided to declare the hotel 'black.'
A spokesman for the 'strikers' said last night that Mrs. Ryan adopted a high handed attitude towards customers and that beer was not 'on' often enough.
Mrs. Ryan has been licensee for 11 years. Earlier in the week she said that the code of behavior she had laid down had to be obeyed or she would refuse to serve.
Narrabeen Hotel War Warming Up (1949, May 8). Truth (Sydney, NSW : 1894 - 1954), p. 3. Retrieved from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article168883445
CONTEST RENEWAL OF HOTEL LICENSE
SYDNEY, Sunday.-A meeting of 200 residents of Narrabeen yesterday morning raised £50 to contest the renewal of Mrs. Mary Ryan's license- for the Royal Hotel in Narrabeen. Claiming that Mrs. Ryan had not given them a fair deal, the residents had declared the hotel "black."
However, a Narrabeen police officer said last evening that the police were quite satisfied with Mrs. Ryan's conduct of the hotel.
CONTEST RENEWAL OF HOTEL LICENSE (1949, May 9). Advocate (Burnie, Tas. : 1890 - 1954), p. 3. Retrieved from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article69357059
NARRABEEN HOTEL
Patrons Object To Licence
Eleven men who said they had been regular customers of the Royal Hotel, Narrabeen, gave evidence objecting to the renewal of the licence of the proprietress, Mrs. Mary Ryan, before Mr. V. H. Wells, S.M., in the Licensing Court yesterday.
Mr. Wells did not admit as evidence a petition signed by a large number of objectors in the Narrabeen district.
The objectors opposed renewal of Mrs. Ryan's licence on various grounds.
Leonard Thomas Peat, 383 Pittwater Road, Narrabeen, said that over a period he had received one dozen bottles of beer a week from Mrs. Ryan. For these he was charged 24/, he said.
On Anzac Day, 1948, a stranger standing near him in the bar bought two glasses of beer and began to walk away, said Peat.
He said that Mrs. Ryan came from behind the bar, pushed her way through the crowd and said to the man: "You know you can't take glasses away."
Mrs. Ryan took one of the glasses and threw the beer in his face, said Peat.
The man retaliated by throwing the contents of the other glass at Mrs. Ryan.
William Edward Berry, of Pittwater Road, Narrabeen, and Harold Holdsworth Putsey, of Marine Parade, Narrabeen, both said they had obtained dozen lots of bottled beer from Mrs. Ryan and had been charged 24/.
The hearing will resume on June 17. NARRABEEN HOTEL (1949, June 11). The Sydney Morning Herald (NSW : 1842 - 1954), p. 4. Retrieved fromhttp://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article18118684
Leonard Thomas Peat: Date of birth - 22 Jun 1899
WWI - Service Number - 2512, enlisted 6th of February 1917 at age 19 years and 7 months. Joined 'A' Details Moascar- HT Mashobra, Bombay (18/3/1917) - Suez. Sent to Egypt. Taken on strength and sent to 4th Australian Camel Corps (5/5/1917). Transferred to 2nd Light Horse Regiment (25/5/1917). Transferred to 6th Light Horse Regiment (18/7/1917). Transferred to Supply Dept. (27/10/1917). Rejoined 6th LHR 24/11/1917 - did duties - various theatres - Embarked per HT "Madras" at Kantara for Australia June 27th, 1919.
6th Light Horse Regiment in Egypt - 1917 to 1918
From AWM: Back in Egypt, the 2nd Light Horse Brigade became part of the ANZAC Mounted Division and, in April 1916, joined the forces defending the Suez Canal from a Turkish advance across the Sinai Desert. It fought at the battle of Romani on 4 August, at Katia the following day, and participated in the pursuit that followed the Turks' retreat back across the desert.
The regiment spent late 1916 and early 1917 engaged on patrol work until the British advance into Palestine stalled before the Turkish bastion of Gaza. It was involved in the two abortive battles to capture Gaza directly (27 March and 19 April) and then the operation that ultimately led to its fall - the wide outflanking move via Beersheba that began on 31 October.
With the fall of Gaza on 7 November 1917, the Turkish position in southern Palestine collapsed. The 6th participated in the pursuit that followed and led to the capture of Jerusalem in December. The focus of British operations then moved to the Jordan Valley. In early 1918 the 6th was involved in the Amman (24-27 February) and Es Salt (30 April-4 May) raids, both of which were tactical failures but helped to convince the Turks that the next offensive would be launched across the Jordan.
Instead, the offensive was launched along the coast in September 1918, with the 6th taking part in a subsidiary effort east of the Jordan. It was part of the force that captured Amman on 25 September, which proved to be its last major engagement of the war; Turkey surrendered on 30 October 1918. The 6th Light Horse was employed one last time to assist in putting down the Egyptian revolt of early 1919, and sailed for home on 28 June.
Retrieved from: https://www.awm.gov.au/collection/U51040
Leonard Thomas Peat:
WWII - Service Number NX2705
[PEAT Leonard Thomas (Private) : Service Number - NX2705 : JORY Onslow Stanley Milton John (Private), NX69573 : Unit - Australian Reserve Ordnance Depot : Date of Court Martial - 15 March 1942]
So Mr.Peat, married to Ella by WWII, would have witnessed and been subjected to, some pretty distressing scenes and experiences.
William Edward Berry:
WWII - four gentlemen enlisted under this name. One born in England, one in Concord, one in South Australia and one in Victoria. Mr. Berry of Narrabeen appears in another dispute two years later:
GARAGE SUIT SETTLED
Settlement of a dispute between the owner and lessee of Narrabeen Lakes Garage over an agreement to sell only Shell products was announced in the Equity Court yesterday. Mr. C. A. Porter, for the owner, William Edward Anthony Berry, made the announcement. The terms were not disclosed.
On August 23 the Chief Judge in Equity, Mr. Justice Roper, granted Berry an interim injunction against the lessees, Allan Lancelot Peck and Alice Isobel Peck, prohibiting them from doing any-thing to prevent the supply and resale of numerous brands of petrol and oil. Berry had alleged that Peck entered into an agreement with the Shell Company Ltd. without his consent.
GARAGE SUIT SETTLED (1951, September 8). The Sydney Morning Herald (NSW : 1842 - 1954), p. 5. Retrieved from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article18229569
Dispute Over Agreement Settled
SYDNEY, Fri. — A dispute between the owner of a Narrabeen Lakes garage and the leasees, over an agreement to sell only the brand of petrol, and oil, has been settled privately, the Equity Court was told to-day. William Edward Anthony Berry, owner of the garage, was granted an interim injunction on August 22, against the lessees Allan Lancelot; Peck and his wife, Alice Isobel. Peck, restraining them from preventing the sale of numerous brands of oil and petrol. The action, the first taken since certain oil companys introduced their plan to institute one brand service stations, was settled for undisclosed terms. The interim order against the lessees restrained them from making alterations to the premises or advertising signs, or doing anything to impair or injure the goodwill of the business. Berry alleged that Peck had entered into an agreement with the Shell Co. Ltd.-to sell only Shell products without, his consent, and in breach of the terms of the lease.
Dispute Over Agreement Settled (1951, September 8). Daily Examiner (Grafton, NSW : 1915 - 1954), p. 3. Retrieved from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article194972548
In 1953, the National Archives of Australia records: BERRY William Edward Anthony versus The Commissioner of Taxation
Harold Holdsworth Putsey, contractor:
DRIVER PINNED DOWN BY TRUCK.
Harold Holdsworth Putsey (30), of Aubrey Street, Stanmore (formerly of Fairfield), was pinned by the right arm under his motor truck for half an hour on Thursday night. He was turning from Belgrave Street. Manly, into Smith Street, when the vehicle overturned.
Manly Ambulance took him to Manly Hospital, where he was admitted with a compound fracture of the arm.
DRIVER PINNED DOWN BY TRUCK. (1944, May 25). The Biz (Fairfield, NSW : 1928 - 1972), p. 6. Retrieved from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article76277252
Of course anytime beer is mentioned, or the curtailing thereof, the newspapers will have a field day, and some elements of what really went on comes forward in their reports - leading out with a day famed for a tendency for overdrinking in some, ANZAC Day:
Anzac Day beer in man's face
A witness in the Licensing Court today said he had seen Mary Eileen Ryan, licensee of the Royal Hotel, Narrabeen, threw a glass of beer in a customer's face. The witness, Leonard Thomas Peat, hairdresser, said that on Anzac Day, 1948, a stranger had ordered two glasses of beer. The bar was packed and the man took the two glasses towards the door. Mrs. Ryan came from behind the counter, pushed her way through and asked the man why he was taking the glasses outside, Peat stated. "She then took one glass out of his hand and threw the beer in his face. He then threw the contents of the other glass of beer over her." Peat said he had bought beer from Mrs. Ryan at a dozen for 24/- on many occasions. Mrs. Ryan is applying for a renewal of her licence and a number of local residents have lodged objections. Mr. Wells; SM, said today that the most important grounds alleged were that Mrs. Ryan was uncivil to customers and had sold beer above the fixed price.
Anzac Day beer in man's face (1949, June 10). The Sun (Sydney, NSW : 1910 - 1954), p. 10 (LATE FINAL EXTRA). Retrieved fromhttp://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article229777869
DRINKERS SAY MARY IS QUITE CONTRARY
DOWN Narrabeen way a number of the locals who do not see eye to eye with the licensee of the one and only hotel refer in hushed tones to 'Mary, Queen of the Scotch,' with all the awe you might expect when liege subjects speak of an omnipotent ruler.
These local topers aver that unless Mary gives the high sign you get no Scotch, you get no beer, but you stand a good chance* of seeing the 'royal' disfavor manifested in no uncertain fashion. In fact the disgruntled ones contend that if you are not 'in' with the dispenser of convivial good cheer you may very well be 'out' — perhaps on your ear. The Mary they speak of is Mrs. Mary Ryan, mine host of the Royal. So incensed are they at what they allege is a reign of tyranny by Mrs. Ryan that they have petitioned against her being granted a renewal of the licence, and Mr. H. V. Wells, Licensing Magistrate, is now considering the position.
CAUSE of all the pother seems to have been a lighted bunger tossed into the arena, that is to say the bar, by someone who apparently had imbibed not wisely but too well. Mrs. Ryan quickly .made evident her strong disapproval of such behavior, and disgruntled patrons began picket duty of the establishment. Some continue to stand watch over the approaches. However, there seems to be considerable ground for a suggestion that those who are complaining most vociferously in this cold war are inspired by pique, and unslaked thirsts. Thus it may be significant that the Metropolitan Licensing Inspector (Mr. Noonan) does not oppose renewal of the licence, and that the police speak in the highest terms of the manner in which Mrs. Ryan conducts the hotel.
But the 'Battle of the Bunger' goes on. Hearing of the objections to the renewal began last Mon day, was adjourned to Friday, and has now been adjourned to June 17. Burden of the objectors', complaints is that the Royal bar gives indifferent service, that Mrs. Ryan is an over-rigorous disciplinarian, and that incivility often is more biting than a shot of undiluted metho.
Among the grounds of the objections are allegation's that Mrs. Ryan is not a fit and proper person to hold the licence; that she has sold beer at black market prices; that she has closed the bar during normal drinking hours, and that she is consistently uncivil to such an extent as to interfere with normal activities of the drinking public.
Specific 'objectionist' allegations included: One man had been struck over the head with an empty drink tray. Another customer had beer thrown In his face. Beer was once turned off when a customer laughed. Leonard Thomas Peat, 383 Pittwater Rd., Narrabeen, and William Edward Berry, Narrabeen, told the court that they had paid 24s a dozen for bottled beer. Berry aided: 'I have seen Mrs. Ryan snatch men's glasses out of their hands, pour the beer down the sink, chase them out of the hotel, and not refund them their money.
'Everybody is afraid to go against Mrs. Ryan because they would be barred from the hotel,' he said.
Thomas Nilan Eric Hill
Eric Gordon Hill, 355 Pitt water Rd., Narrabeen, plumbing contractor, said that one of his friends had been struck over the head with an empty beer tray for 'no reason at all.' Gilbert Frank Alexander Powder Works Rd., Narrabeen. proprietor of a radio shop in the district, said he visited the hotel about four or five times weekly and found Mrs. Ryan rude and abrupt.
'Within the last few months I saw her washing a glass and deliberately throw water down a customer's face,' he said.
Andrew Henry Lethard, of Narrabeen, said that several occurrences at the hotel had led to the local people declaring it 'black.'
'It has brought to a head the tyranny that has been going on for years,' he added.
Thomas William Nilan, poultry farmer, of Warriewood, and former contender for the Australian heavyweight wrestling championship, said conditions at the hotel were so bad he had not returned there for a drink for some time.
Sgt. J. Milne (for the Metropolitan Licensing Inspector); Mr. T. L. Warren (for Mrs. Ryan); Mr. H. Maguire and Mr. D. G. Gregor (by J. O. Williams), for the objectors.
Mrs. Mary Ryan, who is seeking a renewal of her licence.
DRINKERS SAY MARY IS QUITE CONTRARY (1949, June 12). Truth (Sydney, NSW : 1894 - 1954), p. 13. Retrieved from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article168880064
Licensee may leave hotel
Mrs. Mary Eileen Ryan, renewal of whose licence for the Royal Hotel, Narrabeen, is being opposed by Narrabeen residents, is seriously ill, and will probably withdraw from the hotel. This was announced in the Licensing Court today by Mrs. Ryan's solicitor (Mr. T. L. Warren), who asked for an adjournment, adding "after which it will probably be essential for me to withdraw the application for renewal." The hearing was adjourned until Monday. Opposition to the renewal of Mrs. Ryan's licence was on the grounds that she had sold beer above the fixed price and she was consistently uncivil to customers. Licensee may leave hotel (1949, June 17). The Sun (Sydney, NSW : 1910 - 1954), p. 9 (LATE FINAL EXTRA). Retrieved fromhttp://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article229769103
'BATTLE OF THE BUNGER'
LOOKS LIKE WIN FOR BAR-ROOM BRIGADE
Mr. Wells, S.M.
'THE right royal 'Battle of the Bunger' at the right royal Royal Hotel, one and only hostelry in Narrabeen, has virtually ended. The probable capitulation of one of the generals — the one normally buttressed behind the fortifications of the bar — is hinted at in latest communiques.
IF this happens, it will go down in the annals of the Bar-leaning Brigade that the Invaders from without defeated the Keeper of the Bar within. But it is still likely that when the Black Watch goes into battle down on the wide vista of the Narrabeen plain, the pipes will skirl — perhaps a lament — for 'Mary, Queen of the Scotch.' The 'Mary' spoken of in hushed tones by the local topers, is elderly Mrs. Mary Eileen Ryan, mine hostess of the Royal, and so incensed - have the topers been over what they describe as her 'rude' treatment of customers requiring a drop of the doin's, that they ganged up and opposed renewal of the licence. Matters seemed to come to a head some time ago when a lighted bunger was tossed into the bar. Mrs. Ryan turned off the beer and closed the hotel as a result. The hotel was then declared ?'black,' and was picketed. The local drinkers organised themselves and decided to oppose renewal of Mrs. Ryan's licence.
First blast was fired a week ago, and the hearing of the application for renewal continued on Friday before Mr. H. V. Wells, S.M., became a damp squib, when it was announced on Mrs. Ryan's behalf that she would not continue with the application because of her failing health.
Among the grounds of objection made at last week's hearing, were allegations that Mrs. Ryan was not a fit and proper person to hold a licence; that she had sold beer at blackmarket prices; that she had closed the bar during normal drinking hours; and that she was consistently uncivil to such an extent as to Interfere with the normal activities of the drinking public.
At the hearing last week, specific 'objectionist' allegations included; One man had been struck over the head with an empty drink tray; Beer had been thrown in the face of another customer ;Beer was once turned off when a customer laughed.
MRS. RYAN
It should be said in Mrs. Ryan's favor, however, that the Metropolitan Licensing Inspector (Mr. Nunan) raised no objection to her application for renewal, and that the police speak in the highest terms of the manner in which Mrs. Ryan conducts the Royal Hotel.
When the hearing resumed at the Licensing Court on Friday, Mr. Warren (for Mrs. Ryan) said his client had seen a specialist (Dr. R. St. John Honner), who had recommended that Mrs. Ryan retire from business activity for health reasons. Mr. Warren produced a doctor's certificate indicating that Mrs. Ryan was suffering from a heart condition, and the publicity given to the case had affected her.
'Upon this information, I feel I cannot put my client into the witness box to refute allegations made by people objecting to the renewal of the licence,' said Mr. Warren. By consent, the hearing was adjourned until tomorrow, and Mr. Warren announced that he felt it would then be essential for him to withdraw Mrs. Ryan's application.
Sgt. J. Milne for the Metropolitan Licensing Inspector; Mr. T. L. Warren for Mrs. Ryan; Mr. H. Maguire and Mr. D. G. Gregor (by J. O. Williams) for the objectors; Mr. O'Halloren for Tooheys. Ltd., owners of the freehold, and also for the company leasing the premises.
"BATTLE OF THE BUNGER" LOOKS LIKE WIN FOR BAR-ROOM BRIGADE (1949, June 19). Truth (Sydney, NSW : 1894 - 1954), p. 14. Retrieved from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article168880261
Narrabeen licence
Application by Mrs. Mary Ryan for renewal of her licence of the Royal Hotel Narrabeen was withdrawn in the Licensing Court today. Mr. T. L. Warren (for Mrs. Ryan) said his client was too ill to continue with the licence. He asked that an order be made for a temporary transfer of the licence to Mrs, Ryan's sister, Miss K. McGrath, conditional upon her transferring the licence within two months to a man.
Mr. H. Maguire, who appeared for objectors to the renewal of Mrs. Ryan's licence, said he did not object to this so long as the transfer to Miss McGrath was only a temporary measure. Mr. Wells, SM, ordered the application to be withdrawn.
Narrabeen licence (1949, June 20). The Sun (Sydney, NSW : 1910 - 1954), p. 2 (LATE FINAL EXTRA). Retrieved from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article229769500
HOTEL LICENCE TRANSFERRED
Transfer of the licence of the Royal Narrabeen Hotel, Narrabeen, from Mrs. Mary Ryan to her sister, Miss Catherine Ann McGrath. was approved by Mr. V. H. Wells. Licensing Magistrate, yesterday. Miss McGrath said she had entered into negotiations for a country licensee lo take over the Narrabeen licence. She expected that an application for a transfer would be lodged within two months.
Mrs. Ryan lodged an application for the renewal of the licence, but later withdrew it on the grounds of ill-health. Renewal of the licence was objected to by a group of customers of the hotel.
HOTEL LICENCE TRANSFERRED (1949, June 28). The Sydney Morning Herald (NSW : 1842 - 1954), p. 6. Retrieved fromhttp://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article18120597
Mary Ryan of Narrabeen
BIRTHDAY CELEBRATIONS
Great' excitement, was caused among the staff of the Royal Hotel, Narrabeen, on May 25, when Colin ("Pop") Hawhorne, late of Grafton, celebrated his 21st birthday. The staff's dining room was decorated with green and pink, and his chair and knife and fork were tied with pink ribbon. In the centre of the table was the staff's birthday gift in the shape of a boot box, tied with green ribbon and a big poker-work key with 21 inlaid in silver.
After unwrapping yards of paper he finally came to a beautiful wristlet watch, suitably engraved, from Miss Violet Smith, Mrs. Baker, Miss Jean Pattent, Mrs. Smith, Messrs. Stan Berger and Bob Andrews and a lovely brush and comb from Mrs. Ryan, Mrs. McGrath and Miss McGrath. He also received a nice cake from his mother, one from Miss Violet Smith and one from his many friends in Narrabeen.
At night a surprise party was given in the hall by his friends. Over the door was a very large key, each member putting his name to it. A dainty supper was served at which Miss Violet Smith acted as hostess, wearing an evening frock of blue mariette with trimming of sequins and silver head-di-ess. and carried a posy of orchids. The evening came to a close with the singing of 'For He's a Jolly Good Fellow.'' — Contributed. BIRTHDAY CELEBRATIONS. (1938, June 3). Daily Examiner (Grafton, NSW : 1915 - 1954), p. 4. Retrieved from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article192646080
Two Women Thrown From Car
Mrs. Mary Ryan, licensee of the Royal Hotel, Narrabeen, and her sister. Miss Catherine Mc-Grath, were injured today when they were thrown from a car
which skidded in the rain and struck an electricity pole in Pitt-water-road, Manly. The car was badly damaged and electric light wires were brought down. Manly Ambulance took both women to Manly Hospital, where they were treated for abrasions and shock, and later allowed to leave. Two Women Thrown From Car (1945, April 25). The Sun (Sydney, NSW : 1910 - 1954), p. 7 (LATE FINAL EXTRA). Retrieved from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article231716846
RYAN Patrick John -July 6 1952 at hospital Bowral formerly of Manly beloved husband of Mary Ryan of Mittagong Requiescat in Pace
RYAN - Patrick John - July 6 1952 loved father of Evelyn (Mrs R Fairbank) Ronald James Owen Patrick Gregory (deceased) and
Florence (deceased) Requiescat In Pace.
Family Notices (1952, July 7). The Sydney Morning Herald (NSW : 1842 - 1954), p. 10. Retrieved from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article18272012
An insight into some of what happened during post-war shortages - many a Profilee in this news service has spoken of having to wait to live somewhere, how building materials were scarce and some lived in converted garages for the first few years of marriage with shortages prevailing into the early and mid 1950's:
Bankrupt blames racketeers for loss of £10,000
SYDNEY blackmarkets are blamed by English butcher, Arthur William Bull Hotham, 41, for the loss of £10,000 aim less than two years.
He was faced with blackmarket rents and fleeced by blackmarket meat prices, he said.
This week, Hotham told the Bankruptcy Court that he had nothing, except debts, of the £10,000 he brought to Australia in October, 1947. The Court has adjourned Hotham's examination. Yesterday, Hotham told The Sunday Sun that he had had to pay heavy living expenses for himself, his wife and his young son at a leading hotel because he couldn't get a flat at the legal rental.
"Wherever I sought a flat or a home I was asked for 'key money'," he said. "Each place had a few sticks of furniture. "For a house for sale at Narrabeen I was asked to pay £7500, being £4000 by cheque and £3500 in blackmarket cash, ostensibly for the furniture. "At Dover Heights there was a flat for £4500, being £2300 b.y;. cheque and the rest in blackmarket cash. "For the key to enter an 18-guinea flat overlooking the Harbor, I was asked to pay £1800 for some practically worthless furniture.
"Lost thousands"
"I lost thousands on a beef-boning business because I had to buy meat at blackmarket prices and had to sell at the legal ceiling prices.
"As a newcomer to Australia, I was quite unaccustomed to the prevailing rackets and blackmarkets, and, consequently, I lost my money," said Hotham.
Bankrupt blames racketeers for loss of £10,000 (1949, September 4). The Sun (Sydney, NSW : 1910 - 1954), p. 32. Retrieved fromhttp://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article230939154
Rebuilding Of Hotel
Sir,-I suggest there is a large section of the public which will take a view entirely contrary to that expressed by Mr. Don Richardson on the question of the rebuilding of the Hotel Kosciusko. It will include those who are struggling desperately to get homes built in the face of the present shortage of nearly every material needed for building.
For the State Government to even contemplate replacing a building which provides pleasure during the winter for a very small pro-portion of the population wealthy enough to be able to afford the cost would be deplorable at the present time.
P. J. MARSH.
Narrabeen.
Rebuilding Of Hotel (1951, April 21). The Sydney Morning Herald (NSW : 1842 - 1954), p. 2. Retrieved from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article18209466
Many people took to living in tents in camps at Narrabeen, Avalon, an Palm Beach, although perhaps not as many as who had once camped at Bilgola, Clareville, and Whale Beach. Post-war shortages caused the taking to canvas, some of them remaining there for years until these were all closed by the council, bar Narrabeen:
An Easter Encampment - Picture: One of the prettiest beaches to the north of Sydney is Whale Beach. It is a favorite haunt of motor-campers. An Easter Encampment. (1931, April 10). The Land (Sydney, NSW : 1911 - 1954), p. 3. Retrieved from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article111602977
Visit: Camping at Narrabeen – A Trickle then a Flood or Avalon Camping Ground or Barrenjoey Boat House – Station Beach or Pittwater Reserves: The Green Ways Bilgola Beach - The Cabbage Tree Gardens And Camping Grounds or Pittwater Restaurants You Could Stay At Jonah's Road House – Whale Beach or Narrabeen Lagoon And Collaroy Beachfront: Storms And Flood Tides Of The Past
Some more Narrabeen happenings from before and after the Great Bunger Debacle:
People At Beach Don't Want Hotel
Residents of Avalon objected in the Licensing Court today to transfer of the licence of the Royal Standard Hotel, Redfern, to a site overlooking Avalon Beach. Proposal is to build a £120,000 tourist hotel, with accommodation for 80 guests and 200 diners. Henry Robert Holmes, retired clergyman, told Mr. Cassldy, KC (for the objecting residents), that it was a quiet district, essentially suited to family life, as enjoyed by the retired folk and people with voung children, who lived there. Bottles tnrown over the small cliff behind the proposed site would endanger people below, he said. About 1000 campers used the area at peak holiday periods, but so for the rowdy element had been absent. Holmes said that he was not assuming that only drunken types would frequent the hotel. At the same time, drinking conditions at other hotels, in Dee Why, Newport and Narrabeen, were disgusting. The case was adjourned until June 6. People At Beach Don't Want Hotel (1947, June 3). The Sun (Sydney, NSW : 1910 - 1954), p. 3 (LATE FINAL EXTRA). Retrieved from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article231542442
AGED MAN CHARGED
Woman's Neck Wound
Clara Ethel Lowther, 54, of Ocean Street, Narrabeen, was admitted to Manly Hospital last night with a six-inch wound on the right side of the neck.
William Makin, 74, was later charged with maliciously wounding her.
Lowther is suffering from loss of blood and severe shock. Hospital authorities said last night her condition was fair. She was not able to be interviewed by police.
Detectives H. Hughes and J. Berry, of the Northern Wireless Patrol, and Constable Jenkins, of Narrabeen, arrested Makin.
Makin told the police that he and Lowther were living in a caravan at the rear of a cottage in Ocean Street, Narrabeen. While preparing tea, he was cutting some bacon with a knife. The woman, he said, exclaimed: "You are not doing it properly."
Makin said he turned round and the knife accidentally slipped, cutting the woman on the neck. AGED MAN CHARGED (1948, December 22).The Sydney Morning Herald (NSW : 1842 - 1954), p. 3. Retrieved from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article18089685
MIXED BLESSINGS OF N.S.W. DELUGE.
SYDNEY, Jan. 10:
Since Saturday night, suburbs and northern parts of the State have received a deluge of ten Inches, which has caused chaos and damage near Sydney but has been beneficial to crops in the country.
With steady rain continuing, serious flooding can be expected unless it eases shortly. During a gale this afternoon, a tug was sunk in Sydney Harbour. Scores of other craft were damaged. Already, hundreds of miles of low-lying areas close to Sydney have been flooded but while many homes have been marooned throughout the day, the greatest damage has been caused to campers' tents in crowded holiday areas. Rail services have been interrupted by landslides and washaways within 50 miles of Sydney, buildings have been damaged in the metropolitan area by gales and interstate and overseas plane schedules have been thrown into confusion. Great possible benefits continue to be reported from the country areas where scores of districts are enjoying the best January rains for many years. Falls of from seven to ten inches are numerous in northern towns. Crops have received soaking rains which ensure their success. The rain will put hundreds of thousands of pounds into the pockets of farmers and graziers.
SEVEN-YEAR RECORD.
The Sydney suburb of Roseville, on the North Shore line, and Concord, a western suburb, have both had more than ten inches of rain since Saturday night while many other suburbs are approaching that level. The city area has had more than seven inches. The fall of more than five inches during the 24 hours to early today was the heaviest January rain for a 24hour period for seven years. The cyclonic disturbance which brought the rain to N.S.W. did not penetrate far inland. It is now moving eastwards from a point 160 miles east-north-east of Sydney. Thousands of campers who had been spending the holidays in big camping areas in the Narrabeen district spent hours of terror from late last night as the heavy rain caused the Narrabeen Lakes to flood. Floodwaters banked back and swirled through the tents to a depth of 4ft. in places.
CAMPERS' ORDEAL.
During the night, the 6,000 occupants of the tent town fought against the swirling waters to keep their tents upright. By early morning, furniture was floating away from some of the tents.
At Milson's Point, close to the north side of the Harbour Bridge, the heavy rain loosened the foundations of a big double garage and tons of rock and earth crashed into the courtyard of a block of flats adjoining. In St. Peters early tonight, a double-decker bus loaded with workmen tilted dangerously when the edge of the road gave way under its weight at a point where rain had caused damage. The men scrambled from the bus unharmed. Fire brigades were kept busy in the city during the day and night answering calls to pump out flooded basements of buildings. At the points where the washaways occurred on the main northern line, .hundreds of passengers are stranded tonight in their compartments because the rain is too heavy to allow them to walk to nearby towns for food. Water was a foot deep in the bars of the Gosford Hotel late today and severe damage was caused to many shops in the town. More than five inches of rain fell in less than three hours this afternoon. Many roads and bridges in the district have been flooded and creeks are at danger level. Three persons were hurt late today when their car collided with a blitz waggon in heavy fog and rain- at the top .of Bulli Pass. Water racing down from nearby areas has caused severe damage to. many of the- city beaches. In some cases, whole sections of the beaches have been washed away. Last night, more than 150 passengers on interstate planes were forced to spend the night at Wagga aerodrome because their machines could not go on to Sydney.
MIXED BLESSINGS OF N.S.W. DELUGE (1949, January 11). The West Australian (Perth, WA : 1879 - 1954), p. 2. Retrieved fromhttp://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article47637269
THE WONDERS OF WARRINGAH
IN FIVE YEARS Shire Has Doubled Its Population
Valuations made recently by Mr. P. Carew, a former shire clerk and famous International footballer, speak more eloquently than words ever can regarding the growth of Warringah Shire, of which Narrabeen is such an important centre. The unimproved value of shire lands for rating and the number of rate payers are shown in parallel columns for the past five years:
Year. Rating. Population.
1920 £1,086,056' 6,050
1921 1,386,847 8,365
1922 1,903,179 9,308
1923 2,137,618 9,424
1924 2,390,850 10,654
1925 2,926,890 11,577
The population of the shire all the year round is estimated to be between - 13,000 and 14,000. There are about 6500 buildings in the shire.
COUNCILLOR ATKINS is Narrabeen's. universal 'provider.
COUNCILLOR HAROLD ATKINS. president of the local Progress Association and a prominent man in other directions at Narrabeen, followed, in the father's steps, for he, too, is a nursery man. A scheme the Progress Association has in hand is building a first-class road right round Narrabeen Lake.
Electric light and city water are laid on in the portions of the district which range from Manly to Narrabeen, and the whole of this area now carries within the Sydney fire district. The area of the shire is 109 square Miles, and it extends from Manly on the south to Barrenjoey on the north, from the Pacific Ocean on the east to Middle Harbor, French's Forest and Pymble' on the west.
MR. ROBERT GEORGE JAMIESON has been Shire Clerk for the past 10 years. He came to Warringah from Coolamon.
THE WONDERS OF WARRINGAH SHIRE (1925, February 1). Sunday Times (Sydney, NSW : 1895 - 1930), p. 7 (Social and Magazine Section). Retrieved from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article128164179
Of the many glories of Warringah Shire — which embraces 109 square miles of picturesque country, and charming ocean beach between Manly and Barrenjoey — is. Narrabeen, the progressive seaside resort, famed for its surf beach, lake, and beautiful bushland. A great future awaits a spot so lavishly favored by Nature. From many parts of the Commonwealth people are now building handsome homes by Narrabeen's sea beach and lake waters.
ELANORA ESTATE
300 Allotments for Sale
Elanora Estate, Narrabeen, is a portion of 640 acres purchased last year by a company composed of wealthy and mostly retired gentlemen for the purpose of subdividing into building allotments.
Last year the first subdivision was opened to the public for purchase. This subdivision contained 127 allotments, which were sold within six weeks of the date of opening. The prices ranged from £1 .to £3/3/ a foot. The majority of purchasers are people living in and around this district, and every block sold was inspected before purchase. The company have now opened up a second subdivision, which contains about 300 allotments, the prices ranging from 25/- to 50/- a foot. An amount of approximately £10,000 has been expended on the subdivisions by way of clearing and road-making, surveying, etc. Every allotment has a frontage to a properly constructed 66ft. road, and practically every allotment has permanent panoramic outlooks of lake and ocean.
FINE FRONTAGES.
The surveyors in laying-out this estate have taken great care not to repeat the mistakes which were made in the majority of our present-day suburbs. Every allotment has an area of over 5000 feet, and has a frontage of 50 feet. There are no narrow roads or laneways, and this should be an inducement to any person desirous of becoming a land-owner. World tourists who have inspected this estate say there are no views in the world better than those to be obtained from practically every part of the estate. Narrabeen is situated exactly seven miles by tram from the Manly Wharf. An idea of the growth of this part of the coast can be formed from the figures given elsewhere. With the ad-vent of the North Shore Bridge, and the electric railways all that part of the coast which lies between Manly arid the Hawkesbury River must be-come the finest suburban sites for the city of Sydney.
WONDERS OF THE LAKE.
Elanora Estate, situated as it is, should prove to purchasers a splendid investment over a period of a few years. Narrabeen will, on account of its lake and ocean beaches, be the premier suburb lying along the coast-line. Narrabeen at the present time is a tram terminus. Motor 'buses meet each tram at this terminus for all the surrounding beauty spots. Narrabeen Lake is one of the most beautiful in New South Wales. Week-ends find it thronged with the tired business man seeking his pleasures and relaxation in a way that is cheap and healthy. Boating, fishing, swimming, and picnicking are some of the charms offered on this lake.
'I bought two blocks of land when I arrived at Narrabeen several years ago. They cost me £50 for the-pair — a pound down and a pound a month. Recently I sold them. A man cheer-fully gave me £650; and he can get more already for them. Is there any-thing wrong with this place?' Narrabeen resident ELANORA ESTATE (1925, February 1).Sunday Times (Sydney, NSW : 1895 - 1930), p. 7 (Social and Magazine Section). Retrieved fromhttp://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article128164075
NARRABEEN AND ITS PANORAMAS
ARCADIAN SPOT OF SURF AND LAKES HAS DOUBLED ITS POPULATION IN LAST FIVE YEARS
NARRABEEN, with its golden beach', shining lake, and flowery forest, is a jewel in a fairyland called Warringah. Electric trams, motor bus services, and motor cars have enabled city folk to easily reach this beautiful spot, but greater wonders still have been worked lately. The new bridge across the Spit has had an effect upon Narrabeen, which very few people anticipated. Any number, of motorists are now driving across Spit bridge and direct into Narrabeen, thus avoiding the detour through Manly. Narrabeen is naturally very happy on this account. When the North Shore bridge is built, and the railway is running through Narrabeen, as it is anticipated it will, the place will be- one of great importance. It is difficult, as one regards crowds of gaily-dressed bathers on Narrabeen's beaches to-day, to realise that 20 years ago there were but three houses in the place.
FURLOUGH HOUSE, Where, thousands of soldiers' wives and children have received kindly treatment.
NARRABEEN AND ITS PANORAMAS (1925, February 1). Sunday Times (Sydney, NSW : 1895 - 1930), p. 7 (Social and Magazine Section). Retrieved from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article128164073
The panoramic picture above depicts the beauties of Narrabeen, its rugged headlands, bushland, highlands and beautiful lake.
MR. PAT McCAULEY,
Boniface of Narrabeen
Mr. Patrick Bernard McCauley, proprietor of Narrabeen Hotel, is known from end to end of the shire, and is a popular figure in several spheres, though he has been in the district only three years.
Born at Clyde River N.S.W., half a century, ago, he takes a keen interest in all sports, and before moving to Narrabeen was known from Newcastle to Goulburn, an area of 200 miles. Recently he showed his horses at Gosford Show and won two first prizes. He is a member of the executive of Warringah Shire Association, and works hard to make the annual show a success. Mr. McCauIey was for 15-years a member of the Metropolitan Fire Brigade, hold the Bronze Medal, and was present at many of the biggest fires in Sydney. During the time he has resided at Narrabeen Mr. McCauIey has made his presence felt, by building shops and dwellings, and laying out an area for fruit growing. He is also the owner of a mixed farm, and guests of his at the hotel are always assured of everything fresh.
MR.McCAULEY'S NARRABEEN HOTEL.
MR. P. B. McCAULEY. of Narrabeen, is a prominent figure in Warringah Shire.
WHAT BRIDGES MEAN.
As a result of the construction of a bridge of concrete across Middle Harbor between Roseville and French's Forest, the distance between the northern suburbs as far west as Parramatta and the coastal beaches north of. Manly has been greatly reduced.
Traffic over the roads leading from the bridge to the coast, especially at weekends, and on holidays, is enormous. The council is asking the Main Roads Board to proclaim the chief road a main road, so that it may be kept in reasonably good order.
The construction of the bridge brought French's Forest and the adjoining, settlement of Belrose within easy-distance of the North Shoreline, and in consequence the development of French's Forest, by way of subdivision and increased values, is considerable.
NARRABEEN LAKE.
Rapid development is taking place on the northern side of the lake. An estate recently cut up (Collins' Estate) is rapidly being built; on. Other large estates on the northern side are now being subdivided, notably, Macpherson's Wimbledon Estate, Carefree Estate, and Elanora Estate. In each case portions of the lake frontage are being dedicated to the council for public recreation purposes, and the time when there will be a public road or public reserve right round the lake, should not be far distant. Some of the land on the north side is low-lying, particularly part of Wimbledon Estate — the land nearest the main road — but the owner, with commendable enterprise, has just entered into a contract, for the raising of the land by dredging operations. This will not only render useful what is now waste land, but will deepen the lake channel and make it more attractive for boating, etc. '
‘About £30,000 was sunk in the electric lighting scheme, the president went on, 'and 500 private consumers were benefiting — after two years. We thought that was wonderful, but to-day we have 1400 people subscribing. And hundreds of -new applications are coming in from all parts, of the shire.
THE PREMIER'S GIFT.
'The new reinforced concrete; bridge over Middle Harbor, between Roseville and French's Forest, has proved a splendid thing for the district. Sir Geo. Fuller, when he sanctioned this work, rendered a great service to a large number of Returned Soldiers who hardly needed employment at the time. Those who had land at French’s Forest had it converted into residential block.’
Councillor Parr does not make mention of the fact, but, as a matter of fact, the returned men of French’s Forest showed their appreciation of the work he had put in on their behalf during the agitation for a bridge by presenting him with a handsome silver service.
The projected road of concrete between Manly and Newport – 9 ½ miles —is still a live matter in the shire and it is hoped that it will not be long ere the work is begun. As soon, as the Main Roads Board is formed the shire hopes for, better treatment in the way of monetary grants, and when it is mentioned that among her beaches are Harbord, Curl Curl, Dee .Why, Collaroy, Narrabeen, Mona Vale, Newport, Avalon, Whale Beach, and Palm Beach, it will be realised the need there is for good communication between Sydney and these populous spots.
COUNCILLOR PARR
President of the Shire
The Shire President, Councillor Arthur George Parr, was born in Sydney 47 years ago of Australian parents, and he takes a real Australian view of things Warringah. Though it is but 12 years since he entered the shire, he has prospered in business, and all his eggs are in one basket
'I wouldn't have money anywhere else,' he says, 'for I think the shire has a wonderful future. It seems only yesterday since we got electric lighting. Now we are busy promoting all sorts of bigger schemes, and will go on doing so for many years, I hope.
COUNCILLOR PARR, the Shire's President.
'BOOST IT'
Narrabeen has no more ardent admirer than Mr. Edward N. Atkin, of Lagoon-street. Born 46 years ago at Auckland, N.Z., he tripped round the world for five years as a lad, and worked as a sugar boiler in almost every European capital before he settled 'in the richest district in Australia,' to quote his own words. Mr. Atkin says Narrabeen, less than 20 years back, boasted three houses, and no roads other than the main road.
Today the total-assessments of the shire every year exceed £1,000,000:
'All I make here in business I invest in 'Narrabeen. That's what I think of the place, ''he added. 'The place badly needs boosting, and I am glad to know the Sunday Times is out to give it a shove along.'
He thinks not another resort on the coast can be compared with Narrabeen, which has bush-flowers, beautiful panoramic views, glistening beaches, and jutting headlands, and a wonderful beach.
Two buses ran daily between Manly and Narrabeen. To-day a string of fashionable cars almost continually passes through the town. 'In two decades roads have been cut, bush has been cleared, surf sheds erected, a capital hotel has been built, businesses established, and a residential population has sprung up. Who can tell what Narrabeen will be in another 20 years ?
MR. ATKIN, an old resident of Narrabeen.
SURF AND GOLF
Linking Up of Collaroy
Mr. A. C. Greenwood, J. P., who has been prominently identified with real estate transactions and the progress of the district for a decade, says it is typical of the area that the values of business sites in Collaroy have increased during that period from 17/6 to £50 a foot. Choice residential sites are now worth up to £20 a foot.
There is little doubt that this pretty spot will before long lose its week-end aspect, and become a suburb of Sydney in which business men of Sydney will reside permanently. Speedier transit is all that is required, and that is coming fast.
AN £11,000 SALE.
The popularity of the district was never so much in evidence as it is this season, and this in spite of the wretched climatic conditions which have prevailed. People from many parts of the country were present on January 3 at the sale held by Messrs. Raine and Horne, of Sydney, associated with Mr. A. C. Greenwood. Forty seven lots were sold out of 65 offered. Prices ranged from £2/15/ to £5/15/ a foot, and the total proceeds of the sale were approximately £11,000. The land forms part of the famous Collaroy Heights Estate, owned by the Salvation Army, and is opposite the pretty Dee Why Lagoon. At the present time the Army authorities are constructing, at their own expense, a footbridge on the northern end of the lagoon, and this should prove a boon to residents, for it will provide a quick cut to the surfing beach.
A BEACH SCHEME.
Attention is directed to the Plateau Estate, the views from which are said to be quite equal to those obtained from the heights of Bulli. About 800 subdivided lots of this estate were acquired by the late Mr. T. H. Green; who was a successful speculator and a keen judge of land value. The estate is rather difficult to get at owing to the steep grade of Alexander street, the natural link between the estate and the main street; but once it is possible for a motor car to reach the Plateau Estate, this land will be of great value indeed for residential purposes. Vendors and persons, interested should bestir themselves to obtain better access to this valuable rate-producing estate.
The beach resumption at Collaroy is eagerly awaited in its final stages. About half of the purchase price is already assured, as the result of the Government contribution of £6000, a gift of £2000 from the Property Board of the Salvation Army, and £1000 from the ratepayers in the immediate vicinity. When the area is finally resumed, no doubt schemes of beautification will be carried out. The Surf Club have money in hand for the erection of a club-house worthy of the club and the district. Another great attraction to Collaroy is the nine-hole golf course, which is exceptionally well patronised. The tennis courts have been so popular, as to warrant extensions. The swimming pool or rock bath is a big draw.
MR A. C. GREENWOOD has land to sell.
Telephone .Y 8249.
A. C. GREENWOOD,
VALUATOR and REAL'' ESTATE AGENT.
Offices: Collaroy- Beach Tram Section, and at Corner South Creek-rd., Dee Why.
SURF AND GOLF (1925, February 1).Sunday Times (Sydney, NSW : 1895 - 1930), p. 7 (Social and Magazine Section). Retrieved fromhttp://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article128164070
The bridge opening are they referring to:
Above: OPENING OF THE BRIDGE ACROSS MIDDLE HARBOUR. THE CEREMONY NEAR ROSEVILLE ON SATURDAY, AFTERNOON. OPENING OF THE BRIDGE ACROSS MIDDLE HARBOUR. (1924, September 22). The Sydney Morning Herald (NSW : 1842 - 1954), p. 12. Retrieved from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article16174040
Below: OPENING OF THE MIDDLE HARBOUR BRIDGE. Several thousand people attended the official opening on Saturday afternoon of the –Middle Harbour Bridge between French's Forest and Roseville. After the opening ceremony, which was performed by the Premier, Sir George Fuller, hundreds of motor cars passed in procession over the bridge. Sir George Fuller said the new bridge would prove an important link between the northern suburbs and the important beaches on the northern side of Sydney Harbour, besides substantially assisting settlers in French’s Forest. OPENING OF THE MIDDLE HARBOUR BRIDGE. (1924, September 24). Sydney Mail (NSW : 1912 - 1938), p. 10. Retrieved from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article169149144
Narrabeen Hotel Licence Transfer Trail And Extras
NORRIS.—June 21, at Narrabeen, the wife of R. Norris, of a daughter. Family Notices (1887, July 2). The Sydney Mail and New South Wales Advertiser (NSW : 1871 - 1912), p. 48. Retrieved from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article165222147
An application on behalf of Thomas Henry Purves for a publican's license at Narrabeen Lake, Narrabeen, was granted. LICENSING COURT. (1888, October 19). The Australian Star (Sydney, NSW : 1887 - 1909), p. 6 (FIRST EDITION). Retrieved from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article228416840
LICENSING COURT.
In the Water Police Court this morning the following transfers of publicans' licenses were granted : — Narrabeen Hotel, J. H. Purvis to J. W. Lloyd; LICENSING COURT. (1889, March 8). The Australian Star (Sydney, NSW : 1887 - 1909), p. 6. Retrieved from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article227306302
The Glebe Bicycle Club's Tour.
The postponed run to Narrabeen Lakes, and Barrenjoey was successfully carried out last Saturday, when eleven members captained by Mr. G. H. Williams, left the Railway Station (Redfern), at 2.15 p.m., catching steamer to Manly. Machines were then mounted, and after a very pleasant hour's ride Narrabeen Hotel was
reached. The party here was somewhat lessened by the compulsory, though reluctant, return of several of the members, leaving six to enjoy themselves. After tea a walk of three miles was made to Rocklily Hotel, returning early enough to carry out an impromptu smoke concert, in which several members showed good talent, by songs, recitations, &c.
After breakfast, on Sunday, a start was made for Barrenjoey. After, proceeding three miles two came to grief, one injuring, his knee the other breaking off his handle bar. These were compelled to stay, at the Rocklily Hotel. and one other, out of compassion for them and knowledge of bad roads ahead, resolved to stay with them, leaving Messrs. G. H. Williams, F. Poppenhagen and Geo. Endicott to continue the journey,some 15 miles, which, after calling at Mona Vale, Green Dale, and Newport, were reached without mishap by 11.45 a.m. . As nothing of interest, save the splendid scenery, necessitated a lengthy halt, a return was soon faced. At 2 p.m. the tourists reached Narrabeen Hotel, and again did the disappearing trick with the good things prepared by Mrs. Norris. The final departure was made at 3.15 p.m., a steady pace being maintained to Manly, and as the captain decided to reach Sydney overland, a smart pace was kept up to the spit at Middle Harbour, where after forty minutes delay, the punt conveyed them ovor, and as darkness was fast approaching, and the roads good, a regular road race ensued, along the Military Boad to Milson's Point, all arriving at Ciroular Quary at 6 p.m. The Glebe Bicycle Club's Tour. (1889, May 18). Balmain Observer and Western Suburbs Advertiser (NSW : 1884 - 1907), p. 3. Retrieved from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article132302002
PROPOSED TRAM TO NARRABEEN.
The three progress associations ; of Narrabeen, Newport, and Pittwater united their forces on Saturday evening, and held a very enthusiastic public meeting at Norris's Narrabeen Hotel. A party of gentlemen left Manly in one of the Pier Hotel drags, and after an hour's drive arrived at their destination at 8 o'clock: Alderman T. J. West (Mayor of Paddington) presided, and there was a splendid attendance. Among those present were Messrs. Dugald Thomson, M.L.A., H. S. Badgery, Alderman Fred. C. Passau (Mayor of Manly), Aldermen C.C. Tucker and N. W. Montagu (Manly), Rev. A. G. Stoddart, Rev. P. M. KJynn, H. T. Robey, George Harrison,. C. R. Austin', J. Wheeler, T. Gibbons, F: Ellis, D. M'Lean, D. C. M'Lachlan, T. H. Macpherson (secretary to the Narrabeen Progress Association), J. Waterhouse, H. Graham, W. Bclton; W. Reynolds, C. Harlock, and S. Greigg. The Port Jackson Co-operative S.S. Company notified by letter -that their sympathies were entirely with the movement. The chairman said that all were agreed that if proper travelling facilities were afforded hundreds of city folks would come to Narrabeen -and district, and enjoy the beautiful scenery and fresh air. They would only be too glad to. get '\a way from the smoky city. The time had arrived when a man should be able to jump into a tram at the Manly Wharf and be taken to Narrabeen in decent time, and with some degree 'of' comfort. Statistics showing that the average number of people carried by the Port Jackson Company amounted to 100,000 monthly had been obtained. The line could be constructed along the road almost the whole way from Manly. People owning land that would be necessary for the construction of tire tram would willingly give the ground. - (Cheers.) Large numbers of people would take up residences in the district if the tram were constructed. In order to give an idea of the passenger traffic, the persons passing the hotel for a week were counted, and they totalled 956, and that in the depth of winter. If they united their forces,' there -was no doubt the matter would be carried -to a successful issue. Mr. J. Waterhouse said the aim of the residents was a purely federal one—they wished to be united by a tram. The line 'of f oiite was as level as a table top, and he wondered the people had suffered so long. It meant the best part of a day getting to the beauties of the district. He moved — 'That this meeting, consisting of the Progress Associations of Narrabeen, Pittwater, and Newport, direct the attention of the Government by deputation to the necessity of constructing a tram from Manly to the district.' ? Mr. Powell seconded the motion, which was carried unanimously. Mr. H. S. Badgery said he was pleased to be present, and help in endeavoring to procure the construction of the tram. Mr. Dugald Thomson said he was always to be found among those who were striving for benefits or improvements for the suburbs on the north shore of the harbor, i Alderman Montagu and Mr. Symonds also supported the motion. Alderman Fred. C. Passau moved— 'That a deputation (consisting of the whole of the meeting) wait on the Minister for Works with reference to the construction of a tram to Narrabeen.' Mr. S. Greigg seconded, and Alderman Tucker, Mr. H. T. Robey, and Mr. J. Bolton supported the motion, which was carried. PROPOSED TRAM TO NARRABEEN. (1898, June 27). Evening News (Sydney, NSW : 1869 - 1931), p. 3. Retrieved from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article109646515
Mrs. Norris [Morris ?] and family group outside Narrabeen Hotel Circa 1890, by Perier, A. J. (Albert James), 1870-1964, Image No: Home and Away – 34425, Courtesy State Library of NSW Licensee, Robert Morris (Sands 1890); Robert Norris (Sands 1900) - [see also ON 260/423 with "Robert Norris' Narrabeen Hotel" shown over the front door]
Narrabeen Hotel Pre 1905 - from album Box 14: Royal Australian Historical Society : photonegatives, ca. 1900-1925, courtesy State Library of NSW
NORRIS—WELLS.—April 16, at St. Barnabas' Church, by the Rev. Joseph Barnier, Robert, third son of Mr. W. J. Norris, of Forest Lodge, to Emily Jane, eldest daughter of Mr. G. Wells, of Forest Lodge. Family Notices (1878, April 25). Evening News (Sydney, NSW : 1869 - 1931), p. 2. Retrieved from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article107935552
BURGLARY AT NARRABEEN.
THE NARRABEEN HOTEL ENTERED.
There seems to be a boom just now in hotel robberies. On Tuesday night a box, containing some £20 In money, and other valuables, was stolen from the Federal City Hotel, at the corner of Bathurst and Sussex streets; and the Narrabeen Hotel, Narrabeen, was burglariously entered between 11.30 last night, and 1.30 this morning. Entrance was effected by means of a side window, which had been left unfastened, and a sum of £34, comprised of cheques and gold and silver, was stolen from a safe, together with a canvas bag, containing a bank deposit-book. The safe, it appears, had been left unlocked and the movements of the thief were such as' to lead to the assumption that he was not altogether unfamiliar with his surroundings. Mr. Robert Morris is the licensee of the hotel. The police have the matter in hand.
BURGLARY AT NARRABEEN. (1899, February 25). The Daily Telegraph (Sydney, NSW : 1883 - 1923), p. 10. Retrieved fromhttp://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article236794069
NORRIS.—September 18, at her residence, Narrabeen Emily Jane, dearly beloved wife of Robert Norris, and daughter of George Wells, auctioneer, of Sussex-street, Sydney. Family Notices (1899, September 19). The Sydney Morning Herald (NSW : 1842 - 1954), p. 1. Retrieved from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article14248725
Advertising (1900, February 3). The Sydney Morning Herald (NSW : 1842 - 1954), p. 17. Retrieved from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article28247734
NORRIS. -In sad but loving memory of our dear mother, Emily Jane Norris, who departed this life on the 18th September, 1899, aged 43 years. Lost to sight, but to memory dear. Inserted by her loving family.
NORRIS.-In sad but loving memory of our dear daughter, Emily Jane Norris, who died at Narrabeen, September 18,1899. inserted by her loving parents, G. and S. Wells, Boulevard, Strathfield, Leaves may wither, but memory never. Family Notices (1902, September 18). The Sydney Morning Herald(NSW : 1842 - 1954), p. 1. Retrieved from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article14510128 - This IN Memorium Notices continue until 1908 - soon after:
NORRIS - December 9, 1910 at Sydney, Robert Norris late of Narrabeen aged 60 years. Family Notices (1910, December 10). The Sydney Morning Herald (NSW : 1842 - 1954), p. 14. Retrieved from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article15184934
Mrs. Florence Gertrude Moore.
The death occurred in Carlyle Private. Hospital, Wingham, on Friday afternoon, 10th October, 1947, of one of Wingham and district's best known and mast highly respected residents, rude Moore. Mrs. Moore was ill for three weeks, having been stricken down suddenly by a stroke. She was conveyed to Carlyle Private Hospital promptly after this sad happening, and there received the best and kindliest of attention. However, it was all to no avail. The late Mrs. Moore was a daughter of the late Mr. and Mrs. R. Norris, of Narrabeen. She was first married to Mr. K. E. Mclntyre, and they settled at Strathfield. The result of that' union was two sons — Mr. K. M. Mclntyre and Mr. John Edwin Mclntyre, both of whom were with their mother before she passed away. Later on she married Mr. James Manning Moore. They lived first at Chatswood, and later at Bobin. It was at the latter place that Mr. Jim Moore died. Prior to coming to Bobin, Mr. and Mrs. Moore lived for about 12 months in New Zealand. Mrs. Moore leaves one sister and one brother. The sister is Miss Stella Norris, of Leyim. (New Zealand). The brother is Mr. R. Norris, of Drummoyne. The late Mrs Moore was a kindly hearted lady, and she had many sincere friends throughout town and district. She was one who was ever charitable 'and generous whenever it came to h^pin7 a deserving case or cause, no matter from what organisation the 'appeal came, and for her kindness of heart she will ever be remembered. Death at the finish came as a happy release. She was 57 years of age. The funeral took place on Sunday afternoon last, after a service in St. Matthew's Church of England, Wingham, conducted by Rev, W. Griffith Cochrane, who made feeling reference to the passing of deceased. Obituary. (1947, October 14).The Wingham Chronicle and Manning River Observer (NSW : 1898 - 1954), p. 2. Retrieved from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article168525687
WATER LICENSING COURT.
The weekly meeting of the Water Licensing Court was held yesterday, when the following transfers of publicans' licences were granted:
Robert Norris to Ralph A. Stennett, Narrabeen Hotel, Narrabeen; WATER LICENSING COURT. (1900, March 1). Evening News (Sydney, NSW : 1869 - 1931), p. 3. Retrieved from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article117032457
CLAIM FOR HOTEL COMMISSION.
In the District Court on Thursday, Clement Layton Ramsay, of Ferry-road, Glebe Point, sought to recover from Ralph Stennett, licensee of the Narrabeen Hotel, Narrabeen, the sum of £19 15s, alleged to be the balance due' for work: done and commission as agreed between him and the defendant in connection with the purchase of the lease, licence, goodwill, and furniture of the Narrabeen Hotel. The plaintiff stated that on February 5 last the defendant agreed to give him £25 if he secured a three, years' lease of the hotel for him, together with the goodwill, licence, and furniture.
He worked in the defendant's interest, and secured the lease from the Perpetual Trustee Company for £225, the defendant shortly afterwards going into possession. The 'defendant paid him £5 5s in two' sums on February 5 and 12 last respectively, and, when asked for the balance, which he admitted owing, said he was not in a position to pay the amount just then. The defendant, for whom Mr. N. Montagu appeared, pleaded that he had paid the plaintiff sufficient for what he had done in connection with the purchase of the hotel. The defendant, it was explained, was not in attendance,- evidently not being aware that the case was down for hearing yesterday. His Honor said he found in favor of the plaintiff for the amount claimed, together with costs, and that if the defendant's solicitor paid the amount into court, he could apply for a new trial on the following day. Subsequently, it was agreed that the defendant should pay the amount of the verdict by monthly instalments of £3 each, the first to be paid on Monday next. CLAIM FOR HOTEL COMMISSION. (1900, September 7). Evening News (Sydney, NSW : 1869 - 1931), p. 3. Retrieved from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article112586877
A DISHONEST LODGER.
A young German named Frederick Trantwein, visited the Narrabeen Hotel, Narrabeen, about a week ago, and made arrangements with the proprietor, Mr. Ralph Stennett, to take up his residence there at the rate of 25s per week. He explained that his week would-be up where he had been staying on the following day, when he would go for his trunk. The trunk never came, and, when asked why he had not gone for it, Trantwein said that he had done so, but it had been sent away from the place without his authority. Mr. Stennet thought it rather hard on the young fellow to lose his property in that manner, so he brought him to Sydney, and took him to the German Consul to lodge a complaint.
From the information received from the Consulate concerning his boarder, Mr. Stennett was not at all satisfied, and subsequently he accompanied him to No, 4 Police Station, where he was searched. To the landlord's astonishment, a bronze- medallion, a pince-nez, a pencil case, part of a gold ring, set with pearls, and a purse, of a total value of £2, his property, were found on the German.
The medallion, Mr. Stennett said, had been presented to him by Lord Beauchamp for life saving, and he would not have lost it for £1000. Trantwein pleaded guilty at the Water Court yesterday to stealing the above articles, except the pince-nez, which he stated he had been using, and had forgotten to place where he had taken it from. He was sent to gaol for two months. A DISHONEST LODGER. (1901, July 20). Evening News (Sydney, NSW : 1869 - 1931), p. 6. Retrieved from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article114034038
WATER LICENSING COURT.The weekly sitting of the Water Licensing Court was held yesterday before Mr. Payton, S M., Mr. Smithers, S.M., and Mr. Penny, L.M. The following transfers of publicans' licenses were granted: ... Ralph A. Stennett to Charlotte Boutin, Narrabeen Hotel, Narrabeen.
WATER LICENSING COURT. (1901, October 3). The Sydney Morning Herald (NSW : 1842 - 1954), p. 3. Retrieved from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article14413483
HOTEL ROBBERY.
The police have been Informed of the theft of from £18 to £20, which took place at the Narrabeen Hotel on Friday. The money was put in a place where It was supposed to be safe, and was not missed for some time. HOTEL ROBBERY. (1902, December 22). The Australian Star (Sydney, NSW : 1887 - 1909), p. 5. Retrieved from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article228950652
NARRABEEN HOTEL, Tel. 152 Manly-Madame C. Boutin. Close to beach, rod fishing, shooting-, etc. Advertising. (1904, September 20). The Sydney Morning Herald (NSW : 1842 - 1954), p. 10. Retrieved from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article14624820
NARRABEEN. — SUNDAY MORNING TROTTING MATCH.
At the Water Summons Court today, before Mr. Donaldson, S.M., James Hetdrick, of Oakville-road, Willoughby, and George Taylor, of Narrabeen, were proceeded against on a charge of furious driving on the Narrabeen road on Sunday, January 15. Both defendants pleaded guilty. From a statement made by Sub-inspector Mitchell, it appeared the defendants engaged in a trotting match on the Narrabeen-road, near the Narrabeen Hotel. The match took place about 11 o'clock in the morning, and it drew an immense crowd to the place, including a large number of people in buggies, sulkies, etc. Previous to the match coming off, Senior-constable Taylor, of Manly, warned the defendants, who were both in sulkies, that they would be committing an offence if they held it. They however carried it out, the distance being, in the senior-constable's opinion, about a mile. All along the route they were followed by people in vehicles, and the highway was made very dangerous for travellers of every kind. The defendants were each fined £5, with costs of court. FURIOUS DRIVING AT NARRABEEN. (1905, January 25). Evening News (Sydney, NSW : 1869 - 1931), p. 4. Retrieved from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article112748474
Charlotte Boutin, a Belgium born French speaking lady who worked at the Rock Lily from 1881, alongside Leon Houreax is associated with the hotel in one way or another until around 1920
From Narrabeen Lakes Estate, 1906 / Arthur Rickard & Co. Ltd Auctioneers. 1906. MAP Folder 114, LFSP 1695 (Copy 1). Part 2. (sales brochure) Image No.: 22704748, courtesy National Library of Australia.
On April 24th 1907 the Narrabeen Hotel, an edifice of some 20-22 bedrooms at the time, burnt to the ground at 5am in the morning.
DISASTROUS FIRE
NARRABEEN HOTEL DESTROYED
NARROW ESCAPE OF THE INMATES
DAMAGE ESTIMATED AT OVER TWO THOUSAND POUNDS
A rather sensational and disastrous fire which resulted In the destruction of over two thousand pounds worth of property, occurred at Narrabeen, near Manly, early this morning. The Narrabeen Hotel. which is distant about seven miles from Manly, and on the road to Pittwater, of which Madam C. Boutin is the licensee, was the scene of the conflagration. The building was a weatherboard one, and consisted of 22 rooms. It was built on a square, all the rooms being on the one floor. All the rooms were destroyed, including several small structures which stood away from the house, and all that now remains to remind travellers of what was once an exceedingly popular house Is a small building at the rear of the hotel, which .managed to escape the flames, and a heap of charred and smouldering wood.
It was shortly after 4 o'clock that Madam Boutin who had secured the building late last night, was awakened, and felt a smothering sensation. She immediately jumped out of bed after donning some clothes warned the other people who were asleep in the house. The building was filled with smoke, and after some little difficulty they got out of the building. The alarm was Immediately given to the neighbours, but fortunately there was little need for alarm, as the wind was blowing from the west. A few minutes later the hotel was in flames, which, fanned by the stiff breeze, devoured the woodwork in a very short space of time.
The Manly branch of the Metropolitan Fire Brigade was notified by telephone of the conflagration, but on one of the firemen asking whether assistance was needed— the hotel Is situated outside the brigade area— he was answered In the negative. In the meantime Madam Boutin and the other people were sheltered in a neighbouring house. The occupants of the house and a number of others watched the building burn, as any efforts they might have put forth would have been useless. The flames had a hold of the building, and as they were assisted by the wind the light structure made excellent food for them. As the fire spread from room to room the furnishings were devoured, and all the crowd could do was to watch helplessly and see the building gradually destroyed. In about an hour after the first intimation of the fire was received the hotel had been razed to the ground, and it was then found, that a rather valuable little dog belonging to Madam Boutin had perished in the flames.
The licensee of the hotel, who is suffering from shock, and the effects of the smoke, is being cared for by one of the neighbours. The damage Is estimated at between £2000 and £3000. It Is not yet known whether the building or Its contents were covered by Insurance. DISASTROUS FIRE (1907, April 24). The Australian Star (Sydney, NSW : 1887 - 1909), p. 4 (FIRST EDITION). Retrieved from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article229525734
FIRE AT NARRABEEN. BRIGADE DID NOT ATTEND.
Shortly before 5 o'clock yesterday morning the Narrabeen Hotel, at Narrabeen, which is a few miles from Manly, was discovered to be on fire, and before the flames could be checked the building, which contained 20 rooms, was entirely destroyed. Madame Boutin, the licensee, and the barman, named BATTISTELLA, each heard a crackling noise, as if the ceiling was falling. They rushed from their rooms to the back of the premises, and cried out, "Fire!" Battistella awoke the cook and other inmates, and they had just time to escape in their night attire.
Fortunately there were no boarders in hotel at the time. A valuable dog was, however, burnt, and Mme. Boutin's birds were rescued from the front verandah under difficulties. The fire, which had broken out in the front portion of the hotel, burnt with great rapidity, and within an hour there was nothing left but smouldering ruins.
As soon as the fire was discovered Mr. Donald M'Lenn, at the local post-office, telephoned to the Manly fire brigade, but as Narrabeen is outside the municipality of Manly the Manly brigade replied that the scene was outside their jurisdiction. Consequently no brigade was present, and the neighbours were left to do the best they could. The hotel-a large cottage-was the property of Mme. Boutin, and was insured in the Australian Mutual Fire Insurance Company for 800 pounds. FIRE AT NARRABEEN. (1907, April 25). The Sydney Morning Herald (NSW : 1842 - 1954), p. 8. Retrieved from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article14836988
METROPOLITAN LICENSING COURT
THE NARRABEEN HOTEL -
The Metropolitan Licensing Bench sat yesterday (.Messrs. Smlthers, Macfarlane, and Donaldson), and adjudicated In the following business as under:...
Charlotte Soutin, of Narrabeen, applied for leave to carry on the bar business In a building put up temporary. The hotel had been recently burned down and the proposed bar for temporary service was 12 x 14ft. It was explained that this was quite large enough for all requirements until the building could be rebuilt.Mir. Donaldson, S.M., did not consider it to be sufficient, and put some queries to the applicant as to the rental of a house in the vicinity. She explained that she lived In a cottage at the rear, but considered It preferable to sell In temporary premises. The application was adjourned for a fort- ' night. METROPOLITAN LICENSING COURT (1907, May 3). The Australian Star (Sydney, NSW : 1887 - 1909), p. 7. Retrieved fromhttp://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article229521824
Business was clearly booming as Charlotte was buying lots of lands at Brookvale and at Mona Vale (Turimetta Village) during 1907. Brookvale lots listed in Land Titles Office Vol. 1524 Fol. 122, her lands at Mona Vale can be seen in Pittwater Roads II: Where The Streets Have Your Name - Mona Vale, Bongin Bongin, Turimetta and Rock Lily
In 1911 Charlotte transferred the licence to Charles Bacon, one of those whom added his name to her second last In Memorium to Battistella almost twenty years later.
Charlotte was advertising a Green African Parrot next to the Narrabeen Hotel in 1920 but soon after George’s death she began buying other Hotel licenses closer to town; The Imperial in Alfred Street North Sydney and the Flagstaff in Princes Street, The Rocks in 1923 and 1924. One of these changed license hands less then six months later.
Her romantic side surfaces as the last visible note in her marriage to John C Elliott in 1924 when she must have been mature. After that she disappears apart from the annual notices for George until her death on July 26th. 1932;
BATTISTELLA -In loving memory of our dear friend Benevenuto Battistella (George of Narrabeen), who departed this life January 25, 1920.Inserted by his friends, C. Boutin, W. Porter, and C. Bacon. Family Notices. (1930, January 28). The Sydney Morning Herald (NSW : 1842 - 1954), p. 10. Retrieved from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article16621341
ELLIOTT-July 26 Charlotte beloved wife of John C Elliott at Randwick Private burial. Family Notices. (1932, July 30). The Sydney Morning Herald (NSW : 1842 - 1954), p. 12. Retrieved from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article16912266
HOTELS TRANSFERRED.
The licensing Bench sitting at the Central Police Court yesterday granted the following applications for transfers of hotel licences; Narrabeen
Hotel, Narrabeen Charlotte Boutin to Charles Bacon. HOTELS TRANSFERRED. (1911, March 3). The Sydney Morning Herald (NSW : 1842 - 1954), p. 4. Retrieved from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article15215280
Charles Bacon was present for the opening of the tram to Collaroy and the hotel hosted the banquet that occurred afterwards. These article provides one of the few found interior images of the hotel as it was then:
OPENING THE TRAMWAY.
A special tram nicely bedecked with ferns, flowers and ribbons conveyed a number of invited guests from the wharf at Manly to Collaroy, where the opening ceremonies — starting of the tram and turning on of the water — took place. Mrs. M'Gowen, wife of the Premier, with a pair of golden scissors cut the ribbon stretched across the end of the line at Collaroy Beach, and Mr. Griffith, Minister for Works, turned on the water in the presence of a large gathering of interested spectators. Among those present were: — Mr. J. H. Cann (State Treasurer), the Lord Mayor (Alderman G. T. Clarke), Dr. Arthur, Messrs. Black, Keegan, Levy, Nobbs, Ms.L.A., and Colonel Ryrie, M.P.; also representatives of the Water and Sewerage Board, Mr. W. J. Milner (president),
Alderman T. H. Barlow (vice-president), Mr. T. Henley, M.B.A., and Mr. J. Leitch. Mrs. M'Gowen, to mark the occasion, was presented with a, diamond brooch shaped like a tram.
THE WATER SUPPLY.
The water supply at Narrabeen consists of four miles of 6in wood pipe for 250ft head pressure. In testing this pipe line it gave excellent results — a great testimony to the pipes manufactured by the Australian Wood Pipe Company. Limited — as in some places the pipe was standing an over-burden of nearly 33 1-3 per cent, more than it was specified to stand. The estimated cost of iron pipes was £3100, the wood pipes costing £2400, showing a saving of £700, or equal to 30 per cent.
At a banquet given by the Australian Wood Pipe Company, Limited, to celebrate the opening of the water supply, held at Bacon's Narrabeen Hotel in the evening, there was a large and representative gathering. Mr. C. E. Ludowici presided. Among those present were Mr. Griffith (Minister for Works), the Lord Mayor (Alderman G. T. Clarke), Dr. Arthur and Mr. T. Henley, (Ms.L.A.), Mr. H. E. Pratten (president of the Chamber of Manufactures), Alderman Middleton (Mayor of Mosman), the aldermen of the Manly Council, and councillors of the Warringah Shire. . Mr. Griffith, in replying to the toast of 'The Ministry" said that those people who stated that they were heavily taxed in Australia did not know what they were talking about. The revenue derived from the railways and tramways was not necessarily the taxation of the country; it was direct payment for services rendered. Those who would lead them to believe otherwise were making misstatements to the people. The Minister added that no article that could be produced in this country ought to be imported. ‘’The system of wooden pipes for water supply was economical, and the Australian Wood Pipe Company had carried out the work" in a most satisfactory manner. Dr. Arthur thanked the Australian Wood Pipe Company for the activity with which they had brought the water to Narrabeen, and Mr. T. Henley also thanked the company for coming to the rescue of the Government at the time when pipes were scarce. Mr. A. G. M'Donald proposed "The Visitors," which was responded to. by Alderman G. T. Clarke (Lord Mayor), and Messrs. W. G. Milner, A. G. Pratten, J. Leitch, G. H. Barlow, and W. Hews (president of- the Warringah Shire Council). Other presentations made during the afternoon were a diamond bracelet to Mrs. Arthur (wife of Dr. Arthur, member for the district), and Mr. Griffith was handed a cable bracelet for Mrs. Griffith from the Australian Wood Fine Company, Limited, which laid the pipes for the water supply.
BACON'S HOTEL NARRABEEN.
This establishment is well and favorably known to visitors to Narrabeen, and the owner (Mr. Charles Bacon) is determined to keep ahead of the times. Mr. Bacon has been at Narrabeen for IS months, and prior to that was caterer at the Manly Golf Club for two years. Recognising that the opening of the tramway would result in a great influx of visitors, Mr. Bacon has lately completed extensive and substantial alterations to the hotel, and part of the general scheme of improvement will be the addition of another storey to the premises. Plans of this work are now being prepared by Mr. Trenchard Smith, and already a new and handsomely-fitted saloon bar has been added, while the dining-room has been renovated and re-decorated, the table appointments being by Walker and Hall. The new roof will be a flat one, from which splendid views of ocean and lake may be obtained.
The capabilities of the Hotel Narrabeen may be judged by the fact that the banquet given by the Australian Wood Pipe Company, to celebrate the turning on of the water supply, on August 3, was held in the main dining-room, nearly 100 guests being present. Mr. Bacon makes a special feature of the midday meal on Sundays, and has a tea garden for afternoon tea. Mr. Bacon is a prominent resident of the district, and is the president of the Narrabeen Progress Association, and also one of the bondsmen for the water supply. The Hotel Narrabeen is up-to-date in every respect; it is connected with the city water supply, and has extensive stabling and garage accommodation. The floors of the garage and stable are concreted, and vehicles ' and cars may be washed down. A septic tank is also in course of construction.
Photo: Mr. Charles Bacon's Hotel Narrabeen.
Photo: Banquet given by the Australian Wood Pipe Company, Limited, at Bacon's Hotel Narrabeen, on August 3, to celebrate the turning on of the water supply.
The water mains— wood pipes— were supplied by the company, and the advantages of the pipes were praised by the Minister for Works (Mr. Griffith) and others at the banquet.
Opening Up a Beautiful District -- Tramway and Water Supply for Narrabeen. (1912, August 7). Australian Town and Country Journal (Sydney, NSW : 1870 - 1919), p. 32. Retrieved from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article263890494
Mr. Bacon subsequently transferred the license to:
LICENSING COURT.
The following transfers of publicans licenses were granted at Thursday's sitting of the Metropolitan Licensing Court :—From Charles Bacon to Maurice Garwood, Narrabeen Hotel, Narrabeen ; LICENSING COURT. (1913, October 25). The Sydney Morning Herald (NSW : 1842 - 1954), p. 10. Retrieved from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article15460592
INFLAMMATORY REMARKS. (1915, July 22). The Maitland Daily Mercury (NSW : 1894 - 1939), p. 3. Retrieved from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article121722180
SLY-GROG AT NARRABEEN — FINE OF £100 .
"Insulting" Thirsty Men
After a hearing occupying, two days, Mr. Love, S.M. yesterday afternoon imposed a find of £100 on. Mary Hyde, of-Narrabeen, for selling liquor without a license, this being her second offence.
Inspector Carson asked one of the witnesses, if he belonged to the "thirsty circle" at Narrabeen, and after deep thought the witness replied that he did not think so. Going on with his evidence the witness said that after the local hotel closed he and the informer went to Mrs. Hyde's, where the informer said he could get half a dozen of beer. Inspector Carson: Well, what happened? Witness: Mrs. Hyde insulted us. She said she had plenty of 'teetotal stuff. Then she told us to clear out, and I was frightened and left. SLY-GROG AT NARRABEEN (1916, December 6). The Sun (Sydney, NSW : 1910 - 1954), p. 4 (FINAL RACING). Retrieved from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article223373712
Narrabeen's New Church
A HISTORIC FUNCTION.
A most interesting ceremony was performed by the Archbishop of Sydney when, he recently blessed the new Church of St. Joseph at Narrabeen, in charge of the Rev. Father E. Brauer. In welcoming his Grace, Father Brauer said that 42 years previously Archbishop Vaughan visited the little church, which was then situated on the shores of Creal Bay, about eighteen miles from Manly, on land which had been .selected by the late Father Therry. For some years Mass had been celebrated at Mrs. Gorman's cottage, Narrabeen, but the congregation had grown too large, and it was decided to transfer the building from Creal Bay to Narrabeen. The cost of taking down the church and its reerection, together with the new roof and sacristay, was £160, which work had been carried out under the supervision of Mr;' Jack Hennessy. Th« land cost £400, making a total, with, sundry expenses, of £601.
St Joseph's at Careel Bay before moving to Narrabeen in 1917. - courtesy of and from an original photo held at Maria Regina, Avalon and Lakes Parish, St. Joseph's Narrabeen.
Original Careel Bay Church, moved to Narrabeen - courtesy of and from an original photo held at Maria Regina, Avalon.
HIS GRACE THE ARCHBISHOP. His Grace the Archbishop stated that he was a very willing servant of the people of Narrabeen. The great increase in the population of the district called for the erection of the church, and in helping to-day the people were carrying on the work of God, as did the priests of the old days, like Dean Hallinan and their worthy successors, the priests of St. Patrick's! College, who shared in being the apostles of the district. The Mass is .the great sacrifice of our faith, and we must have a place worthy of the great act. Life would be a desert without the spiritual nourishment we obtained from the Holy Mass. Narrabeen's New Church. (1918, January 10). Freeman's Journal (Sydney, NSW : 1850 - 1932), p. 32. Retrieved fromhttp://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article116772010
Charles Mitchell (one-armed gentleman in centre) and friends at Narrabeen in circa 1920-24. National Museum of Australia photo
LOOKING FOR SAFE
The Manly police are looking for a safe which was stolen from the bedroom of Maurice Garwood, licensee of the Narrabeen Hotel, Narrabeen, between 9.30 last night and 6 this morning. There were about £1 In cash and some papers In It. When Miss Clara Longstaff, the housemaid, made the rounds of the house at 9.30 p.m. the safe in the licensee's room was all right. The thieves apparently entered the room by way of a window, and were so quiet in their work that they failed to disturb people sleeping not far off. The safe was lifted ' through the window and carted off. The sandhills at the back of the hotel were being searched by the police this morning in the hope of coming across the safe.
… ROBBING SAFES (1920, December 2).The Sun (Sydney, NSW : 1910 - 1954), p. 8 (FINAL RACING). Retrieved from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article222658590
FOUND IN SCRUB
A Narrabeen Hotel Safe DOORS BLOWN TO PIECES £300 Removed Before Robbery
The safe which was stolen from the Royal Hotel, Narrabeen, on Wednesday night or early yesterday morning, was found late yesterday afternoon about 160 yards from the hotel, in the scrub on the other side of the road.
It had been blown open. The cracksmen did a clumsy Job. Their Judgment of explosives was very much at Fault, for the charge of gelignite was probably sufficient to blow up a safe ten times the size of the one damaged. The door was blown to pieces and the sides and back broken. The thieves took 6s in copper, postal notes, and papers, and left behind a half-sovereign, a sovereign case, and several spurious half-crowns. On Wednesday night £300 was taken from the safe and placed somewhere else for security. The police are Inclined to think that the cracksmen had some idea that there was a big sum of money in the safe, and it was certainly fortunate the money was removed. FOUND IN SCRUB (1920, December 3). The Sun (Sydney, NSW : 1910 - 1954), p. 8 (CRICKET EDITION). Retrieved from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article222661915
August 17th, 1921 - Advertising
LICENSING COURT.
At yesterday's sitting of the Metropolitan Licensing Court the following applications for the transfer of publicans' licenses were granted:- Royal Narrabeen Hotel, Narrabeen, from Maurice Garwood to Patrick Bernard McCauley: LICENSING COURT. (1922, April 28). The Sydney Morning Herald (NSW : 1842 - 1954), p. 6. Retrieved from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article15999880
Mr. Mc Cauley would stay in the Narrabeen area for a long time and eventually buy the lots of land on which the Narrabeen RSL at North Narrabeen/Elanora now stands, where he opened a cabaret venue with a swimming pool and 9 hole golf course called the 'Sunray golf course' after a favourite horse, a show jumper, that did extremely well for years. More can be read in Narrabeen Cenotaph + RSL History: 100 and 65 Years Markers Of Service In 2021
MR. PAT McCAULEY,
Boniface of Narrabeen
Mr. Patrick Bernard McCauley, proprietor of Narrabeen Hotel, is known from end to end of the shire, and is a popular figure in several spheres, though he has been in the district only three years.
Born at Clyde River N.S.W., half a century, ago, he takes a keen interest in all sports, and before moving to Narrabeen was known from Newcastle to Goulburn, an area of 200 miles. Recently he showed his horses at Gosford Show and won two first prizes. He is a member of the executive of Warringah Shire Association, and works hard to make the annual show a success. Mr. McCauIey was for 15-years a member of the Metropolitan Fire Brigade, hold the Bronze Medal, and was present at many of the biggest fires in Sydney. During the time he has resided at Narrabeen Mr. McCauIey has made his presence felt, by building shops and dwellings, and laying out an area for fruit growing. He is also the owner of a mixed farm, and guests of his at the hotel are always assured of everything fresh.
MR.McCAULEY'S NARRABEEN HOTEL.
MR. P. B. McCAULEY. of Narrabeen, is a prominent figure in Warringah Shire.
SURF AND GOLF (1925, February 1).Sunday Times (Sydney, NSW : 1895 - 1930), p. 7 (Social and Magazine Section). Retrieved from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article128164070
BATHING AT NARRABEEN, FOR CHILDREN AND HORSES.
NEW USE FOR PNEUMATIC TYRES.
A GROUP OF MERRY YOUNGSTERS AT NARRABEEN.
No title (1926, January 3). Sunday Times (Sydney, NSW : 1895 - 1930), p. 10 (Social and Magazine Section). Retrieved fromhttp://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article128132989
Narrabeen Life Savers' Dinner
The annual dinner of the North Narrabeen Life Saving Club will be held at the Royal Narrabeen Hotel on Saturday, June 19, at 8 p.m. Members should apply to . Mr. S. Hughes (hon. secretary) for admission tickets. Narrabeen Life Savors' Dinner (1926, June 11). The Sun (Sydney, NSW : 1910 - 1954), p. 11 (FINAL EXTRA). Retrieved from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article224202557
NEW HOTEL.
With the commencement of work on the new hotel at Woy Woy, near the railway station, being erected by Tooheys Ltd., local activity has brightened. The building, which is to have 22 bedrooms, will cost approximately £20,000, and is to be completed by Christmas. Everything in connection with the building is to be of the very latest and best obtainable. Garages will be provided, and all the hundred and one things that go to make up modern hotel convenience will be furnished. Local labor, as far as possible, is to be employed; and, with the season just finished, this opportunity may be handy to several residents.
The contractor, Mr. B. J. Nicholas, of Manly, is at present just completing a fine hotel building at Narrabeen, for Mr. P. B. McCauley, some few years ago licensee of the Union Hotel at Gosford. Mr. F. W. Thompson is foreman, and Mr. E. R. Justelius, Sydney, is architect. NEW HOTEL. (1927, June 9). The Gosford Times and Wyong District Advocate (NSW : 1906 - 1954), p. 12. Retrieved from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article161287513
Royal Narrabeen Hotel - August 1930 - Front and Rear Views - courtesy Australian National University
COLLAROY HOTEL APPLICATION.
The hearing of the petition of Mr. S. O. Twight for a hotel license for premises at Collaroy was continued at the Water Police Court yesterday, before Messrs. Adrian (chairman), Le Brun Brown, and Arnott, members of the Licensing Bench.
Evidence of Henry Tamm, licensee of a hotel at Narrabeen, was to the effect that the requirements of the district were adequately met by his premises, which were never taxed to capacity. He said that during the last year the locality seemed to have gone back. The case is part heard
Mr Watt, K C, and Mr J Bathgate are appearing for the petitioner, Mr H O Ed-wards (instructed by Mr J M Love, Crown Law Department), for Inspector Winter and the police, Mr W Clegg for several objectors; and Mr R Windeyer and Mr. B Clancy for other objectors. COLLAROY HOTEL APPLICATION. (1930, March 18). The Sydney Morning Herald (NSW : 1842 - 1954), p. 5. Retrieved from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article16634272
LICENCES TRANSFERRED.
Royal Narrabeen Hotel Narrabeen from Ethel May Tamm (executrix of the will of H R Tamm deceased) to Ethel May Tamm LICENCES TRANSFERRED. (1934, June 7). The Sydney Morning Herald (NSW : 1842 - 1954), p. 7. Retrieved from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article17086632
LICENCES TRANSFERRED.
Royal Narrabeen Hotel, Narrabeen, from Ethel May Tamm to Clara Ellen McGrath. LICENCES TRANSFERRED. (1937, November 25). The Sydney Morning Herald (NSW : 1842 - 1954), p. 6. Retrieved from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article17411814
Clara is Mary's sister, and this commences her '11 years'.
1945 Bus To Narrabeen
Bus queue. Carrington Street at Wynyard Park, 1945 / Max Dupain Source: Mitchell Library, SLNSW (PXD 965/36)
Soon after the 1949 debacle:
Whale High and Dry
A 30ft whale, which had been attacked by sharks, was washed up dead near South Narrabeen Beach last night. The whale is near the Narrabeen Hotel.
(Picture shows the whale and some hardy children.)
"We heard just before closing time that there was a whale on the beach, but thought it was just a bar-rumor," a hotel employee said today. Then this morning we got wind of it, looked out, and there it was, dry and very high. Residents said they saw flocks of birds hovering over a, dark mass in the water on Monday, and thought sharks must have been attacking a school of fish. The whale had been bitten all along the side by the sharks.
Whale dry-- and high (1950, October 6). The Sun (Sydney, NSW : 1910 - 1954), p. 3 (LATE FINAL EXTRA). Retrieved from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article229625805
What's Wrong With Our Hotels?
"Tied-House" System Under Fire
By
REG MAHONEY
"PURCHASE of the licence of Petty's Hotel, Sydney, by a brewery focuses attention on the spread of the "tied-house" system in New South Wales. Critics are asking whether this -system is often responsible for the decline of hotel standards-crowded, beer-slopped bars, poor accommodation, poor service-and concentration on liquor sales.
'THE critics admit that, on paper, some of the projected hotels look "civilised," but they point to the ever increasing consumption of beer in Australia.
- In 1938-39, Australians drank just over 84 million gallons of beer-12.13 gallons a head.
- In 1948-49, they drank nearly 140 million gallons-17.87 gallons a head.
Critics declare that, while the brewery monopolies own the greater proportion of our hotels, the accent will remain on bartrade, because there is more pro-fit in selling draught beer than there is in selling bottled beer or providing accommodation.
Some authorities say that the breweries own more than 75 per cent, of the 2,028 publicans' licences in N.S.W.
The licence of Petty's Hotel was nought by Wintersloe Investments Ltd. (an associate of British Brew-eries) from the Red Cross at an undisclosed figure.
. . .
THE latest report by the N.S.W. Licensing Bench and the Licences Reduction Board shows that there are 618 hotels in the Sydney Metropolitan Licensing District-most of them in the city and industrial areas.
In No. 1 police division (from King Street to Hay Street, from College Street to Pyrmont) there are 77 hotels.
No. 3 division (East Sydney, Surry Hills, King's Cross and Woolloomooloo) has 69, and No. 7 division (Redfern, Waterloo, Mascot, and Alexandria) has 66.
By contrast, the now-closely settled eastern suburbs of No. 15 division (Randwick, Coogee, Kensington, Daceyville, and Maroubra) have only 13 hotels.
On the other side of the Harbour, No. 6 division, North Sydney, Mosman, Neutral Bay, Crow's Nest and Northbridge) has 19 hotels, and No. 14 division,which runs from Manly to Narrabeen, has 9.
A Licensing Court official told me last week:
"There are too many hotels in some areas and not enough in others, but when it comes to re-moving a licence the people where there are plenty don't want to lose one, and the people where there is none don't want one."
' Many critics believe that if hotels, instead of concentrating on a "stand up" rush bar trade, provided for unhurried drinking, better accommodation, and bottled beer, they would be more welcome additions to any district.
. . .
IN their last report, the New *? South Wales licensing magistrates stated that hotels were frequently taxed to their utmost accommodation and many tried to give good service.
"Some licensees, however, still endeavour to avoid their responsibilities in regard to the supply of meals and accommodation," they added.
"With an expected influx of overseas and interstate visitors in the coming years, added to the increasing local tourist traffic, we look with some anxiety on the capacity of hotels to meet demands for accommodation."
Mr. J. B. Scobie, former chair-man of the Licensing Court, believes there should be a redistribution of hotel licences, and that licence fees should be reduced for. hotels that provide more accommodation.
[Publicans' licence fees are assessed at the rate of 5 per cent, of liquor purchases; last year the fees ranged from £1 to £7,000.]
Over a "cup of tea last week, Mr. Scobie told me he thought there should not necessarily be more., hotels, but there should be bigger and better hotels, more sensibly distributed.
Mr. Scobie believes the State Government should appoint a non-party committee to revise the liquor laws.
He thinks hotels should be open for a period in the evening, but says:
"The people voted against it here, so that's that."
MR.. R. WINDEYER, K.C., a fighter- for liquor reform, told me:
"The one great evil in administration of the-Liquor Act is that the whole of Parliament is too ready to accept the breweries' methods.
'The hotels have no consideration for comfort or decency, either in drinking or providing accommodation. In this country the liquor trade '.as become a moneymaking racket by cultivating a taste for beer.
"I'm not a wowser, but I object to the swill-tubs of the pubs."
' Reforms urged by Mr. Windeyer are:
. More community hotels.
. Opening of hotels for an evening period.
. Removal of licences from congested areas to outer suburbs.
. Construction of hotels with adequate accommodation.
Mr. Windeyer pointed out that the breweries made no secret of the fact that they owned most hotels, yet the Liquor Act stated:
"any person at any one time holds a beneficial interest, whether in the name of himself or anyone else, in more Than one licence for the sale of liquor . . . he shall be liable for every day during to which he holds such interest to a 'penalty not exceeding £5."
Mr. Windeyer added: "Brewery ownership of hotels was challenged on this section some years ago, but Mr. Justice James ruled that it did not apply to hotels owned and financed, by the breweries."
I asked Mr. Windeyer what he thought would be the answer to the hotel question.
He said the move for community hotels was encouraging because their object would not be to make profits from draught beer.
"But you'll have to get more honest politicians before you. can get liquor reform," he added. What's Wrong With Our Hotels? "Tied-House" System Under Fire (1950, September 10). The Sunday Herald (Sydney, NSW : 1949 - 1953), p. 2. Retrieved from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article18481585
JOINED FORCES
Mr. W. R. Dovey, K.C. (assisting the Commissioner), to Hooker: Not only did you enlist the co-operation of the brewery, but you enlisted the co-operation of the Whelan family,-Yes.
[Last week Mr. Dovey said the Whelans were "by far the largest private group owning N.S.W. hotels."]
In respect of one new licence you found you were in competition with the Whelan family?- We would have been.
And so you decided to join forces rather than compete?
Yes.
Hooker said they had similarly "joined forces" in respect of two other licences.
The Commissioner said that if somebody could get an order for the conditional removal of a licence it might hold up a perfectly legitimate and proper application from somebody else.
"I'm not assuming at all that this large number of removal orders indicates that there is anything in the way of trafficking," he said.
"I see no reason to assume that these are not genuine investments of companies in hotels, but 1 don't propose to take anything for granted." . BOTTLES VANISHED
Barry McDonald, solicitor for the Whelan family, said that when they took over the lease of the Coogee Bay Hotel from the Trautwein family near Christmas last year, a thousand dozen bottles of beer which had been on the premises when they first inspected the hotel had disappeared before the deal was completed.
"Mr. E. E. Harten, the manager at the time, told us the owners took it," McDonald said.
WHELANS' PLANS
He said the Whelan family had a general policy in regard to their hotels to the extent that they agreed on the degree to which they left their managers alone; had shown preference for freehold properties; and were reluctant to grant leases.
The family planned to: Rebuild the Club House, Railway, and Royal Hotels. Gunnedah, and the Royal Yass, at a cost of about £280.000.
To Erect new hotels at Bankstown, Maroubra Junction, Concord, and Forster at a cost of more than £300,000.
Joseph Andrew Whelan, who with his three unmarried sisters owns the main interest in 35 N S W hotels, said yesterday that he visited most of the family's hotels to see how they were being run.
He said that with Claude Ryan he was lessee of the Coogee Bay Hotel. He had a half share in the Oceanic Hotel, Coogee, a third share in the Occidental Hotel, York Street, and the Narrabeen Hotel, Narrabeen, and owned the Robin Hood Hotel, Black town, and the Bankstown Hotel, Bankstown
Whenever the firmly had found themselves m competition with Mr Hooker's interests they had come to terms
The hearing was adjourned until 10 o clock this morning. NEW HOTELS PLANNED (1951, November 29). The Sydney Morning Herald (NSW : 1842 - 1954), p. 4. Retrieved from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article18241774
Folly Of Easy Money For Homes for the "NEW RICH"
Every week, hundreds of Australian homeowners, dazzled by the bloated prices being offered for vacant-possession houses, are selling their properties to reap what appear to be fantastic profits.
Every seller naively plans to buy a cheaper home and pocket the difference. Too late the "new" rich are discovering that there are no "cheaper homes" arid that it is a thousand times easier to get. out of a house than into one.
RE S U L T is a rapidly mounting army of families living in tents, garages and humpies, even though they have more money in the bank than they ever dreamed of, and another vigorous nudge to the inflationary spiral. Properties are being offered for sale in Australia at the rate of about 3000 a week. This seems crazy in view of the desperate housing shortage. The explanation lies mainly in the get-rich-quick hunger of short-sighted homeowners.
In the Warringah Shire, Sydney, alone, over 1000 families are living in garages, shacks and tents. Some, of course, moved from single rooms and living conditions so intolerable that a lean-to on the beach would be a heaven by comparison. But a great number of them are ex-home owners caught in the inflated money trap. Some are living in tents beside Narrabeen Lake where they rent plots of ground from the council on a three-monthly basis. Others submitted house plans to the council, had them approved and found they could do no more than build a garage because of material shortage, lack of builders and cost of construction.
A former Dee Why resident, now a tent dweller, bitterly told Smith's his story: "I built my home, a pleasant fibro cottage just before the war for just on £800. Two years ago an agent called and offered me £2100 for it. I led him on and his final price was £2300. "My wife and I considered this a magnificent chance to get some money behind us. A clear profit of £1500 seemed good business. "We weren't so silly as to imagine that we could get another house for £800. But we thought we would be able to get something for about £1500 and still have £800 clear which would enable us to get a car and still have something over. "We sold out and moved in with relations. After three months the arrangement broke down, and after, a row my wife, three children and myself moved into an hotel — just as an emergency measure. We were forced to stay at the hotel for just on six months. "During all this time I was trying desperately to buy another house, but couldn't find anything comparable with our old place for £2500.
"I bought a bit of land but couldn't find a builder who would give a reasonable quote even though I approached over 70 contractors. "I now have only £1200 left. For almost a year my family has been living in a tent plus a garage on our land. I now have a builder interested. But I will have to borrow over £1000 and will finish with a home far smaller and inferior to the one I sold at Dee Why." At Curl Curl, close to Manly, a new area was opened up four years ago and some very attractive fibro cottages built. Residents made a happy community until, more than a year ago, a home owner, offered a high price by a migrant, sold out and built a small shack nearby until such time as he could build another home. Two other householders then sold out. One went into a garage, the other into a tent. All three sellers are still homeless. In all strata of society people are being tempted to sell by door-to-door canvassers. A young Sydney barrister who built a 15-square home at Pymble, on Sydney's elegant North Shore line, for £3250 in 1947 received a cash offer of almost £7000 six weeks ago. Before agreeing to accept he insisted on making a survey of homes . .offering to see if he could buy a ..
give him a reasonable profit on the deal. He looked at homes in exclusive suburbs only. At Roseville he saw a home 3 squares smaller than his own, 16 years old, few mod. cons., and 15 minutes from any transport for £5500. The Valuer-General's valuation was £ 1500. At Balmoral, a smallish two-bedroom home in need of repair, £5000. V.G. £1800. At Athol, within earshot of the yak's cage at the Zoo, small two-bedroom home, no garage…
After inspecting eight properties, the barrister decided that by the time he had bought new curtains, blinds, and carpets, paid transfer and legal expenses, not only would he move into a far inferior home to his own, but his profit would be negligible. But few people, either of high or low station, take the care the barrister did. They grab the money first and start worrying after. There are, naturally, odd cases where the proposition is too good to be missed. Within the last month, a 40-year-old home in Milner Street, Mosman, was put up for auction sale. It had originally been bought for £850. Some repairs had been done to it before the sale. Top and successful bid was £7653. Since this sale, estate agents have been canvassing the homeowners in the street inviting them to put their houses up for auction.. ' As an added inducement, they are offering to find flats for them if they surrender their homes. A few months ago, two young boys were sailing a boat on Sydney … a pleasant home at Rose Bay, which had cost his parents about £4000 a few years ago. His young friend said: "My father has never been inside your house, but he likes the look of it very much." Jokingly the lad replied: "Oh,-my dad would sell it to him for £15,000." That concluded the conversation between the boys. But that evening the homeowner received an urgent phone call from the father of his son's pal. He was told: "I hear you're selling your house and your price is £15,000. I'll take it." The deal was clinched next day. Inflated money or not, a profit of £11,000 on £4000 was too good to pass by. Instances such as these are unique. In the majority of cases, no matter what the price paid, the man who gains a home is the winner and the seller is the dupe. Too many homeowners allow themselves' to be dazzled by the quantity of money offered and blind themselves to the fact that the quality has been stripped from it by inflation. The Rural Bank has worked out a rough yardstick with which to compare past house values with present. A brick home built in 1939 for £1000 now costs, a minimum of £2500 to build. , A fibro house, £756 in 1939, £2000 in 1950. But that is only part of the picture. Even with the modern money in your pocket you still have to find someone to build for you and the longer you wait, with inflation ever growing, the less valuable your money becomes. In other fields besides housing the greed of owners is driving, them to sell their goods foolishly.
Tradesmen who have long battled to get hold of a new truck to replace a worn out model are being immediately besieged by buyers who wave masses of paper money before their eyes and offer apparently large profits. In face of the deceptively easy profit, all memories of the struggle and trouble involved in obtaining the article seem to vanish. A taxi-truck operator who needed a certain type- of America utility to replace a completely exhausted model finally got one for £1050. Within two days he was offered £1450 for it and snapped up the cash. Now he is paying for his shortsightedness. His old bus has collapsed." He can't get a new model of the type he needs under a year. And with the war scare developing the second-hand price had jumped to over £1500. People who have sold their homes in the past few years have been foolish. Those who sell from now on will be plain crazy. The great housing shortage will continue for many years yet, being bolstered in its effect by the masses of migrants pouring into the country. And inflation is going to continue mounting under, the stimulus of vast non-productive defence preparations and big public works such as the Snowy River Scheme.
Folly Of Easy Money For Homes (1950, October 7). Smith's Weekly (Sydney, NSW : 1919 - 1950), p. 1. Retrieved from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article235986602
Plenty Of Beer
SYDNEY, Thurs— Thousands of bottles of local beer remained unsold in a Narrabeen Hotel to-day. The beer, in unlimited supply, offered customers the choice of four or five brands. But stacks of unsold bottles remained on the hotel's bar when it closed at 6 p.m. A fortnight ago, people were refused bottled beer because they did not have tickets. Plenty Of Beer (1952, August 22). Daily Examiner (Grafton, NSW : 1915 - 1954), p. 3. Retrieved from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article194759331
The Royal Narrabeen Hotel name remained to 1963 when it became the Royal Antler Hotel - the place where my generation saw the Oils (Midnight Oil), INXS, the Flowers (later Icehouse) Moving Pictures, Dynamic Hepnotics, Celibate Rifles, among many others, lift the roof for a few hours.Narrabeen Hotel Licence Transfer Trail And Extras - threads collected and collated by A J Guesdon, 201