October 1 - 31, 2026: Issue 659

 

Coaster's Retreat wharves: Bonnie Doon + Bennetts - Some History

Groyne and causeway and wood-plank wharves - both with shelter sheds

Boonie Doon Wharf at Coasters Retreat is shown as a ‘pier’ on 1922 and 1925 tourist maps – opposite is a ‘jetty’, for 'The Basin'.

This wharf is mainly a commuter wharf and a boat tie-up facility. Locals state Bonnie Doon Wharf was built in 1914 at the western end of the stretch of Coasters by the Ku-Ring-Gai Chase National Park to provide access for campers and visitors.

In Scotland, 'bonnie' means 'pretty, beautiful, or attractive', while Doon refers to the River Doon in Ayrshire, Scotland. Together, "Bonnie Doon" means the pretty or lovely River Doon, famously celebrated in Robert Burns's 1791 poem and song "Ye Banks and Braes o' Bonnie Doon".

The Ku-Ring-Gai Chase Trust was in charge of this area until the formation of the National Parks and Wildlife Service in November 1967 under the then NSW State Government and this National Park then came under the care and jurisdiction of state governments.

The president of the Ku-ring-gai Chase Trust in 1913 was Jacob Garrard (January 1, 1846 - November 5, 1931). A prominent trade unionist and former New South Wales politician, Mr. Garrard served as the managing trustee and president of the park's trust for over two decades, from 1905 to 1927.  

A 1912 report speaks of the discussion for a jetty being placed here in the near future - a few extracts are:

KURING-GAI CHASE.
A MAGNIFICENT ASSET.
37,000 ACRES FOR THE PEOPLE.
OVERLOOKED BY HOLIDAY-MAKERS.

Nearly at the head of Coal and Candle Creek there is a fisherman's track, running over to McCarr's Creek at Pittwater (the eastern side of the Chase). This is now being deviated, and connected with the trustees' wharf at Lovett's Bay. Near the entrance to Cowan, the Hunter River and Newcastle Company has the lease of a landing place, where on holidays as many as 2000 passengers are brought from Sydney, and left on shore for six or seven hours. The board of trustees is a body which meets regularly, and has done a great deal to improve Kuring-gai Chase. The president (Mr. Garrard) is a veritable tower of strength. He is tireless in his activity, and is a thorough enthusiast. He loves his work, and no effort is too much for him. He is a practical engineer, and his knowledge and high spirit find ample employment.

VIEWS FROM THE HEIGHTS. 

Setting out on the main inspection, the trustees left the houseboat by launch and visited the head of Smith's Creek, the head of Coal and Candle Creek, Jerusalem Bay, past Barrenjoey Lighthouse, Longnose Point, Pittwater, Lovett's Bay, and Towler's Bay. Here the climbing started. Almost overhead from the trustees' buildings at Towler's Bay are to be seen great overhanging lodges of rock, called Perry's Lookout, after Mr. John Perry, a member of the trust. To reach this point, a very steep ascent had to be negotiated. Once at the top, the energy of the climbers was well rewarded. The view was simply magnificent. Far below, about 450ft., were the buildings, the wharves, the launches, and the sea. Intercepting the view downward, were further ledges of rock and a forest of apple-tree, ironbark, oak, peppermint, cabbage-tree, etc. The sight of a forest of trees from above was distinctly novel. Just out to sea, and in a line with the vegetation were to be seen countless myriads ot jellyfish of enormous size. They dotted the water for a considerable distance. One could see Narrabeen and Big Reef in the distance, Pittwater, Scotland Island, McCarr's Creek, Bay View, and Church Point in the south. The ocean was in easy reach to the eastward over a ridge forming the eastern boundary of Pittwater. 

A walk of nearly a mile on an excellent track brought the trustees to Bairne trig station, where the view, possibly a trifle less perfect, was much more comprehensive. South Head and the lighthouse, distant about 15 miles, and the towers of St. Patrick's College, Manly, could be clearly seen. Many successive ranges of hills and Cape Three Points met the eye looking northward, while westward houses at Hornsby, and sometimes a train were visible. The expanse of ocean favored by the early afternoon sun heightened the attractions. With the aid of glasses the site of the wreck of the Maitland could be located to the northward. For the convenience of visitors, the trustees have erected fire places, and a tank of water at Bairne. 

Descending a zig-zag pathway, the travellers reached the Basin, where an informal discussion took place as to the best place to construct a landing jetty to afford protection for small craft from the north-easterlies. It is probable that this work and the erection of baths inside the Basin will be undertaken before very long. The Basin is very popular as an anchorage and yachting rendezvous. Launches and yachts can go round the beach— a spit — and sail in the stretch of water behind it. There is an area of about fifty acres adjacent to the beach, which, it is understood, the Government intends to resume for camping purposes. The trustees and the public interested are very desirous that this convenience should be afforded. There can be no doubt that with the wider dissemination of information concerning the attractions of the Chase, the area will become much more popular, and it may, in time, draw similar thousands to those who go to National Parks. KURING-GAI CHASE. (1912, October 22). The Daily Telegraph (Sydney, NSW : 1883 - 1930), p. 9. Retrieved from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article239175360

Bonnie Doon wharf, Coasters Retreat Pittwater, is listed as a Heritage item under Pittwater Council's LEP.

Bennetts Wharf, located at Coasters Retreat. This wharf is mainly a commuter wharf and a boat tie-up facility. 

Bennetts wharf – towards the Soldiers Point and eastern end, was built in 1944 by Alfred Edward and George Burton Bennett, with two lots of 't's', when they acquired some of the land that was sold at Coasters following further subdivisions, prior to the rest being resumed into the Ku-Ring-Gai Chase National Park.

Bonnie Doon has served as a marker for speed limits on the water as well:

PROCLAMATION.

NAVIGATION ACT, 1901, N.S.W.

I Sir Philip Woolcott Game, Governor of the State of New South Wales and its Dependencies, in the Commonwealth of Australia, with the advice of the Executive Council, and in pursuance of the powers and authorities vested in me by the Navigation Act, 1901, do, by this Proclamation, declare that the waters within The Basin, Coasters Retreat, Pittwater, discharging into Broken Bay shall, on and after the first day of February, 1931, be a harbour wherein all vessels, shall proceed at a speed not exceeding four (4) nautical miles per hour and such reduced speed shall be observed after passing to the westward of the Stone Wharf on the south side of The Basin channel.

Signed and sealed at Sydney, this third day of February, 1931.

PHILIP GAME, Governor. By His Excellency's Command,

JOHN T. LANG, Colonial Treasurer. (713) PROCLAMATION. (1931, February 13). Government Gazette of the State of New South Wales (Sydney, NSW : 1901 - 2001), p. 677. Retrieved from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article220236343 

Coaster's Retreat is so named because coastal trading ships used to wait here to sit out storms and to gather in convoys to sail to Sydney. Coasters has no road or land access and is entirely dependent on transport via the Palm Beach Ferry Service. Coasters Retreat is serviced by these two wharves, and a rural fire brigade.

The oldest house, 'Negunya', was built by the Norton Russell family in 1922, and the second oldest house was built by the Alldrit family in 1926, following a 1921 subdivision of the original land grant.

After the Coasters Retreat Progress Association succeeded in connecting to the electricity supply in 1967, the Association became dedicated to the preservation of the unique coastal environment at Coasters Retreat. Electricity lines were hidden underground, road building never initiated, fences not allowed, and communal postal services maintained in order to promote a tranquil non-suburban environment.

Original Custodians

Coasters Retreat on the western shores of Pittwater (in Ku-ring-gai Chase National Park) is an area of deep Indigenous significance originally inhabited by what Europeans called the Guringai (Kuringgai) people. 

On the foreshore at Coasters Retreat is an Aboriginal carving of a dolphin. The Basin Track Engraving Site, adjoining Coasters Retreat, features petroglyphs of hunters, kangaroos, wallabies, and fishing scenes. The 'Red Hands Cave', located on the headland just north of Coasters Retreat, features indigenous handprints in red ochre alongside other pictographs and middens.

The local Guringai population was heavily impacted and reduced following the 1789 smallpox outbreak that swept through the Sydney and Pittwater coastal strips.

Camping at the deep inlet called ‘The Basin’ was how the first European settlers lived in this beautiful little paradise. Rock carvings at The Basin of fish tell it was a place visited by the Indigenous peoples for thousands of years prior to this during the fish run seasons, usually winter for Pittwater according to literature on Aboriginal Women's Fishing Practices since 1788, with one such witnessing of this occurring here.

William Bradley (1757?-1833), First Lieutenant on the ship, Sirius, captained by John Hunter. He accompanied Arthur Phillip on exploratory trips, to Broken Bay, Manly Cove and the upper reaches of the Parramatta River. Of note in extracts from his journal during his trip to explore Broken Bay is that some of the crew were recovering from smallpox. Pittwater Council's website noted that in 1788-1790 many of our local Custodians died of this disease.

1788, March.

Wednesday. 5th AM: Followed the sw. arm up to the head found several Coves & good depth of water all the way up which I suppose to be about 7 Miles, we left two openings to the S.oward without looking into them & left this Arm without examining a large opening to the NW out of it about a mile & half above the Island: We went into the S.o Arm were caught suddenly by a thunder squall & had much difficulty in getting in:

In a Cove just within the entrance we were met by an Old Man & Boy. He had a stone in his hand which he laid down as he came towards us, he shew'd us the best landing place, brought us a stick of Fire & some Water signifying to us that the rain was very cold, we gave them fish & the Governor exchanged some things for Spears, this Man was but little scar'd about the body.

Thursday. 6. PM. Continuing to rain we secured every thing for the night, the Old Man was with us till the evening.

AM. Went up this Arm, saw several of the Natives in every Cove, the Old Man & boy followed us round to one of the Coves & shew'd us water; We stop'd in a Cove on the E.t side about 3 Miles up, several women in Canoes were fishing two of them came ashore the one an Old & Ugly, the other a young woman tall & was the handsomest woman I have seen amongst them, she was very big with Child, her fingers were complete as were those of the Old Woman. One of the Women made a fishing hook while we were by her, from the inside of what is commonly called the pearl oyster shell, by rubbing it down on the rocks until thin enough & then cut it circular with another, shape the hook with a sharp point rather bent in & not bearded or barbed, in this Cove we met with a kernel which they prepare & give their Children, I have seen them eat it themselves, they are a kind of nut growing in bunches somewhat like a pine top & are poisonous without being properly prepared the method of doing which we did not learn from them. Hard rain the greatest part of these 24 Hours.

Friday. 7. Were at the upper part of the S.o Arm, found in every part of it, very good depth of water except a Flat at the entrance from the Et point 2/3 of the way over, between which & the W.tern shore is a Channel with 3 f.m. at low water & that depth close to the rocks, the Land on the E.t side of this Arm is in general good & clear, on the W.t side all Rocks & thick woods.


Figure 5: ‘View in Broken Bay New South Wales. March 1788'. Courtesy Mitchell Library, State Library of New South Wales. IE number: IE1113857. This is the earliest European depiction of Pittwater. Geoff Searl OAM and Roger Sayers OAM did research a few years back which led them to believe this aspect is from Clareville - local First Nations peoples tell us they call this picture 'dancing with Redcoats'

This Petroglyph, photographed by Geoff Searl OAM, President of the Avalon Beach Historical Society, in a rock on our western shores is stated to be an aboriginal carving of Governor Phillip’s cutter when this first visited Pittwater in 1788.


on exhibit at ABHS 9th Great Historic Exhibition of 2018

Rowboat at Pittwater Basin, New South Wales, circa. 1880 by Charles Bayliss, Image No.: nla.pic-vn4277873, courtesy National Library of Australia.

Jim Macken about to board the Myra for Coasters in November 2013 - Palm Beach wharf was being upgraded. Photo: A J Guesdon

Jim Macken (R.I.P.), a long term resident of Coasters Retreat who researched and then kept 'mum' about the location of sacred sites of our original custodians in order to protect them from vandals, explained during his Profile:

You have written several history books on Pittwater. When I read these you get an impression that you have gone for a walk, stood in certain places, and can see what has come before you – the markings on rocks by original landowners, and those made by settlers – is this what has happened?

I have done extensive aboriginal and European settlement studies. With the aboriginal studies, I originally became interested because there were no aboriginal studies of interest on the Ku-Ring-Gai and West Head areas – so I went out and found where the songlines and markings were. Now I show others where the songlines are; they come to me and we try and trace them right through – I seem to know more about those songlines and the engravings than the aboriginals who visit now. There are a lot in very remote places – you can’t get to them now, they’re too far in the bush.

You can work out where most of them are going to be once you know there is a songline. You go to the end of a songline and you know that ten feet on there will be another one then another one and then another one – you can follow it. There’s a great one up there that goes right across to Flint and Steel beach.

We must be sensitive about this and protect the privacy of these sites from vandals – but what are the songlines that you sense or hear when there?

Well, most of the ones on that side of Pittwater are maritime songlines. There are other songlines which are about animals or mass engravings every quarter of a mile or so which seem to be mass burials. The one top Flint and Steel is all maritime though.

Do you think, as some state, these are interconnected with the seasonal returning of fish species?

I don’t know – I do know that every so often among them are some that I cannot explain – like an engraving of a goanna. Now, where that goanna is pointing is something significant but I cannot tell what it is, and it has got nothing to do with a songline.

When the aboriginals all died from the plague, those that survived left here in a great hurry. Before they left they destroyed all of their iconic figures – there’s one cave down there with the most beautiful art and they’ve rubbed it all out with mud and other paint.

Why?

Because they knew they’d never be back.

There are also sailors graves at Coasters?

That was the Pittwater Cemetery – the middle of The Basin. There’s also some graves among the terraces – those date from around 1806 through to 1830 – they’re very elaborate and run the whole length at the base of that hill at The Basin. And on the aboriginal side there, where they used to drink, there’s about four graves there too, probably more if you had a good look. 

The Basin from today's McKay Reserve, Palm Beach photo from and courtesy Australian National Maritime Museum album, 'Photographs of boating on Pittwater including steam yacht ENA' circa 1890 - RSYS's Basin Regattas of 1890s

When did you first move to Coasters Retreat?

I got moved there in 1960 odd – we’d always gone there on holidays and he (father) bought a house down there and it was reasonable but then my family got bigger so we bought another house there about 35 or 36 years ago. So we’ve got two houses there now – I have one and my brother has one. That’s my permanent residential address – Coasters.

Why do you like Coasters so much – it’s cut off, peaceful?

Yes – we don’t bother much with the law – the inspectors don’t both us much so you can do pretty much what you like and yet it’s close enough to the mainland so you can over if you like. We’ve got good sense – we can pretty much look after ourselves. 

Colonial Land Grant to Real Property Act

Patrick Flinn or Flynn applied for 50 acres at Coasters Retreat on January 21st 1839. This land was purchased by John Andrews on April 18th 1842. John Andrews, a former soldier of the NSW Army Corps by Governor Gipps, gave the name "Soldiers Point" on the western extremity of the south headland, with agriculture beginning on a small scale. 

Crown Lands.-A sale of crown lands took place yesterday ; there were only ten lots, put up, of which seven were sold. In the parish of Manly Cove, 20 acres were sold to John Wheeler at £l 14s. an acre; 17 acres to Charles Chapman at 29s. ; 19 acres to John Wheeler at 27s. ; 100 acres to John Thompson at 14s.6d. ; 100 acres to C. Andrews and J. Skully at 12s. In the parish of Broken Bay, 50 acres to C. Andrews at £1; and 30 acres to William Oliver at £1 10s. The total, amount of the sales was £311 16s., of which £110 is soldiers' remission money, so that the actual sum paid into the Treasury will not exceed £200. For a section in the county of Wellington, 37acres on the Bathurst Road, and 50 acres at Broken Bay, there were no offers. COMMISSIONERS OF THE SUPREME COURT. (1842, March 10). The Sydney Herald (NSW : 1831 - 1842), p. 2. Retrieved from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article12874119

James McCawley, a soldier in the 28th Regiment of Foot, from North Gloucester, which came to Australia in 1835, purchased the land adjoining John Andrews. Shelagh Champion OAM and George Champion OAM state in their Profile of the Pioneers (2013):

Regulations allowed discharged soldiers to take part of their pay by remission of the purchase price of land. As a Private, McCawley was entitled to £25 remission. He purchased 50 acres adjoining John Andrews’ grant for £30, paying the remaining £5 to the Colonial Treasurer. The land was granted to him on 18 April 1842. [LTO SN75/7] 

However, being chief constable at Cassilis, he never lived on the land. He sold it to Gordon Gwynne, surgeon of Parramatta for £23, and Gwynne sold it to John Williams of Baulkham Hills on 16 August 1843 for £15. [LTO Book 7 No.567] The land remained unoccupied. [2.] 


NSW Historical Land Records, Coasters Retreat and The Basin pre 1885 - land map cancelled December, 1886 - courtesy NSW Records and Parish and Historical Maps

Joseph Shaw was residing at Pittwater when John Andrews agreed to sell him six acres “to commence and be taken from the western boundary” of his farm at Coasters Retreat, on May 4th 1849. Andrews agreed to give Shaw legal title “at any time he may require” on condition of the purchase money being paid. John Collins drew up and witnessed the agreement. [LTO Book 82 No.492]   James Shaw, dealer in shells for lime at Pitt Water, was listed in the Sydney Commercial Directory for 1851. Joseph Shaw, with a freehold house and land at Pitt Water, was listed in the electoral roll (St. Leonards) for 1859-60.  Three children of Joseph and Susan Shaw are listed in the records: Joseph (b.1847); James (b.1849); and Martha (b.1852).   

The agreement for sale, indicating that Shaw paid £6 for the six acres of land at Coasters Retreat, was registered on April 8th 1863, suggesting that this had been, and was then, the Shaws’ place of residence. Joseph Shaw could not sign his name, and John Collins witnessed his mark. However, in a statutory declaration dated 6 July 1889, Collins’ widow Honorah stated, “At the time the conversation took place between Joseph Shaw and John Collins, Shaw said, ‘I have no money to give you for the land,’ when Collins replied, ‘I do not want any.’ My late husband put the receipt on the document at Andrews’ request.” 

In October 1859:

John Andrews, of Pitt Water, was charged, on the information of Joseph Shaw, with having wilfully and maliciously killed a calf, the property of informant. Mr. Borton appeared-for plaintiff; Mr. Moffatt for defendant. Several witnesses were examined, from whose evidence it appeared that about midnight of the 21st day of last month, prisoner entered plaintiff's ground adjoining his own at Pitt Water, and with a stick beat a calf belonging to complainant, from the effects of which the animal died the following day. Its head having been much bruised and its neck broken. The attorney for the prosecution having omitted to place complainant in the box to swear in support of the information, and to identify prisoner as the John Andrews there mentioned, defendant's attorney on those grounds raised an objection, which was ruled by the Bench to be fatal to complainant's case, and it was therefore dismissed. WATER POLICE COURT. (1859, October 5). The Sydney Morning Herald (NSW : 1842 - 1954), p. 3. Retrieved from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article13031574 

On November 4th 1859 John Andrews sold his grant to John Smith for £150. When Mr. Smith made a trip to Sydney then returned he found others in residence:

Owen Golden, James Scott, and Margaret Downs were, on the information of John Smith, charged with having committed an assault upon him. Smith stated that he was a farmer, residing at Pittwater. On the 14th of November last he went down to Pittwater to see some land he had purchased from John Andrews, when he found the prisoner Downs living there. He asked her if she was going to leave the place, as he wanted the land. She replied, " I will not leave it so long as there's a stick stands up in the building." 

The two other defendants were present. Smith showed them his title and deed of purchase, asking them to read the documents; but they said there was no necessity. He then told them he should take the door down, and he tipped it off the wire, and took it to his house, which was at a short distance. Subsequently he went back, and knocked one of the slabs off the house, and went inside. Golden then took up one of the laths from the sofa, and struck Smith with it on the arm; Downs seized the kettle and threw some boiling water over him. Whilst he way trying to remove a slab near the chimney Downs attacked him with a piece of burning wood ; but he kept her away with an axe until the three defendants set upon him, got him down, and took the axe from him. The house was empty when Smith purchased the land (which was a grant to Andrews), and whilst he was in Sydney prisoners took possession of it; the house was about fifteen rods within the boundary. The only thing that Scott did was to take the axe from Smith; Golden struck him on the wrist with a batten. John Andrews deposed to having sold the land and house to Smith, and when he put Smith in possession of them no one was living in the house. 

Some seven or eight years ago it was in the possession of a man named Joseph Shaw, to whom he agreed to sell it, with six acres of land ; Shaw built the house and was to give Andrews £6 for it, for the fulfilment of which he gave £1 as a deposit. There was a written agreement which Shaw kept, but he deserted the place in September last. Andrews then sold the place to Smith, the agreement with Shaw not having been completed. Smith (who lived with Andrews) on the day of the assault came home with his shirt nearly torn off his back, and his shoulders and loins so scalded that the skin came off in a day or two. He had also a cut on his arm which he could not use for several days, as well as a sear on his cheek like a burn. Downs, in defence, said her husband took possession of the house from Mr. Ross, custom-house officer, at Broken Bay. Scott was discharged, and Golden and Downs committed for trial at the next Quarter Sessions. Bail allowed. WATER POLICE COURT. (1860, June 5). The Sydney Morning Herald (NSW : 1842 - 1954), p. 3. Retrieved from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article13041403 

The original John Smith passed away from tuberculosis on April 13th, 1862, aged 37 and was buried on the land. This may account for one of the graves spoken of by Jim Macken.

The Andrews land was brought under Torrens Title in 1889:

NOTICE UNDER REAL PROPERTY ACT.

APPLICATIONS having been mode to bring the lands hereunder described under the provisions of the Real Property Act, Certificates of Indefeasible Title will issue, unless Caveats be lodged in Form B of the said Act, on or before the date named opposite each case respectively.

No. 7,492. Pittwater, 67 acres 2 roods 23 perches, near the Basin, comprises the land granted as 50 acres to John Andrews.

Applicant - Patrick John Collins of Pittwater. NOTICE UNDER REAL PROPERTY ACT. (1889, October 18). New South Wales Government Gazette (Sydney, NSW : 1832 - 1900), p. 7499. Retrieved from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article222101508

John Collins’ widow Honorah had conveyed this land to her son, Patrick John Collins, on September 28th, 1887. Patrick John Collins of Pittwater, born 1850, was the son of John and Honorah Collins of Avalon. 

In Volume-Folio 968-149 is charted the John Patrick Collins 'Coasters' land holding of 67 acres, 2 roods and 23 perches changing hands, first to William Cope of Sydney, Solicitor on May 14 1890, then some to Howard Castle-Smith on April 28 1898 and the residue came under Executors on March 15 1935:

Divorce papers Katherine Jane Castle Smith - Howard Castle Smith 1897 – decree nisi issued April 1897

A Sydney Mail pictorial provides a few glimpses of the foreshores of Coaster Retreat as an 'ideal camping ground on the Hawkesbury', with the beach at The Basin in the background, in 1903: 

A FAVOURITE HOLIDAY RESORT

THE BASIN, BROKEN BAY

A FISHERMAN'S HOME AT THE BASIN, WHERE MRS. MORRIS HAS RESIDED FOR 37 YEARS.

MRS. MORRIS AND HER PETS.

ENTRANCE TO THE HAWKESBURY RIVER. -THE BARRANJOEY LIGHTHOUSE.

HEAD OF THE BASIN. THE BASIN, BROKEN BAY, NEW SOUTH WALES.

BAY VIEW, PITTWATER. (possibly included here as the photographer was transported to The Basin from the Bayview Wharf)

AN IDEAL CAMPING GROUND, HAWKESBURY RIVER.

Above: "AN IDEAL CAMPING GROUND, HAWKESBURY RIVER. "1903 The Sydney Mail and New South Wales Advertiser article

Below: "GRILLED FISH FOR BREAKFAST." 1903 The Sydney Mail and New South Wales Advertiser article


 THE BASIN, BARRANJOEY. 1903 The Sydney Mail and New South Wales Advertiser

A FAVOURITE HOLIDAY RESORT. (1903, December 30). The Sydney Mail and New South Wales Advertiser (NSW : 1871 - 1912), , p. 1706. Retrieved from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article164902107

Coasters Retreat land map 1905

In 1911 acreage was dedicated to the park at Coaster's Retreat, amounting to 22 1/2 acres in all:

Department of Lands, Sydney, 17th May, 1911.
Proposals under section 105, Crown Lands Act of 1884, and section 7, Public Trusts Act, 1897, in respect of land dedicated for Public Recreation at Coaster's Retreat.

WHEREAS by a notice published in the Government Gazette of the 7th January, 1879, it was notified that the land at Coaster's Retreat, area 150 acres, had been duly dedicated for a Recreation Ground: And whereas His Excellency the Governor, with the advice of the Executive Council, being of opinion that it is expedient in the public interest to resume such portions of the said land so dedicated, as are described in the Schedule hereunder written, and the areas of which are about 71 acres and 15 acres respectively, has directed that his notice under my hand shall be published in the Government Gazette, setting forth the mode in which it is proposed to deal with the land in question : Now, therefore, notice is hereby given, in pursuance of such direction, and in accordance with the provisions of the 105th section of the Crown Lands Act of 1884, and the 7th section of the Public Trusts Act, 1897, that it is proposed to deal with the said land in the manner following, that is to say,—to revoke the dedication thereof heretofore made so far only as it affects the parts of the said area containing about 7 1/2 acres and 15 acres, respectively, and described in t he Schedule hereunder written, and to re-dedicate the said areas of about 7 1/2 acres and 15 acres, respectively, for Public Recreation as an addition to Kuringgai Chase.

[Ma. 1911-5,006] NIEL NIELSEN".

Schedule referred to.

Descriptions of areas of about 7 1/2 acres and 15 acres respectively being parts of area of 150 acres at Coaster's Retreat, originally dedicated for Public Recreation, the dedication of which parts it is intended ti revoke and which it is intended to re-dedicate for Public Recreation as an addition to Kuring-gai Chase.

(1) All that piece or parcel of land containing 7 acres 1 rood or thereabouts, situated at Coaster's Retreat, Pitt water, parish of Broken Bay, county of Cumberland : Commencing on original high-water mark of Pitt water, at the north-eastern corner of R. Mcintosh's 50 acres grant, dated 8th April, 1835, portion 14 on map ; and bounded thence by part of the northern boundary of that grant bearing west 1 chain 49 links; thence by lines bearing south 6 degrees 45 minutes cast 2 chains 10 links, south 5 degrees 14 minutes west 2 chains 98/,, links, south 43 degrees 47 minutes west 5 chains 59 ^ links, south 77 degrees 7 minutes west 3 chains 23 links, south 31 degrees 48 minutes west I chain 10 links, sou'.h 2 degrees 4 minutes west 1 chain 20 links, south 58 degrees 43 minutes east 1 chain 4i links, south 2 degrees 32 minutes west 3 chains 40 links, South 31 degrees 30 minutes west 7 chains 81 *ri links, south 38 degrees 20 minutes west 9 chains 49yr, links, north 28 degrees 6 minutes west 8 chains 70-fa links, and north 47 degrees 40 minutes west 2 chains 38 fC) links to the western boundary of R. Mclntosh's 50 acres grant before mentioned; thence by part of that boundary bearing south 1 chain 59 links to original high-water mark of The Basin ; thence by that highwater mark and the original high-water mark of Pittwater before mentioned bearing generally south-easterly and northeasterly to the point of commencement, as shown upon a plan in the Department of Lands catalogued Ms. 3,265 Sy. ;—being the land comprised in the 100 feet reservation from highwater mark in portion 14, R. Mcintosh's 50 acres grant before mentioned.

(2) Also, all that piece or parcel of land containing 15 acres or thereabouts, situated at Coaster's Retreat, Pittwater, parish of Broken Pay, county Cumberland: Commencing at original high-water mark, Pittwater, at a point east of the south-east corner of portion 15, John Andrews'50 acres grant; thence west 1 chain GO/,-, links to that corner; thence by lines (forming the eastern, northern and the north-western boundaries of that portion and part of the northern boundary of portion 3, James McCawley's 50 acres grant), bearing north 3 degrees 25 minutes west 91 links, north 24 degrees 4 1/2 minutes east 2 chains (50 links, north 4'J degrees 20 minutes east 3 chains 6 links, north 35 degrees east 3 chains 26^,, links, north 4 degrees 30 minutes west I chain 93 ,V, links, north 31 degrees 10 minutes west 2 chains lUir„ links, north 22 degrees 30 minutes west 3 chains 52.. links, north 23 degrees 16 minutes east 4 chains 51),',, links, north 10 degrees 17 minutes ca*t 3 chains links, north 37 degrees 30 minutes west 3 chains 49 links, north 56 degrees 42 minutes west 1 chain 39 jJ0 links, north 09 degrees 16 minutes we*t 1 chain 61^ links, south 88 degrees 13 minutes west 6 chains 81 ,*0 links, south 55 degrees west 5 chains 30^,, links, south 36 degrees 30 minutes west 4 chains 48 links, south 64 degrees 20 minutes west 2 chains 11 links, south 23 degrees 30 minutes west 1 chain t'0 links, south 52 degrees 35 minutes west 3 chains y\, links, south 51) degrees 46 minutes west 4 chains 38,",, links, south 45 degrees 58 minutes west 4 chains 6 j*,, links, south 35 degrees 18 minutes west 4 chains 17 ^ links, south 20 degrees 50 minutes west 1 chain 91^ links, south 46 degrees west 1 chain 83 r*0 links, south 72 degrees 4 minutes west 3 chains 99/,, links, south 66 degrees west 5 chains 67i links, south 4"> degrees 50 minutes west 1 chain 50 links, south 31 degrees west 2 chains 50,2o links, south 59 degrees west 1 chain /u link, south 8t degrees 40 minutes west 1 chain 05 A*u links, north 33 degrees 3 minutes west 5 chains 59",, links, north 75 degrees 15 minutes west 1 chain 23 ,',3 links, and south 62 degrees 53 minutes west 6 chains 66-j^j links to the north-west corner of portion 3 aforesaid; thence north 1 chain C6i70 links to original high-water mark, Pittwater; thence by that high water mark generally easterly north-easterly, again easterly, and southerly to the point of commencement, as shown on plan catalogued C. 39-2,063, Department of Lands and being the Crown Land intervening  between original high-water mark and land granted to John Andrews and James McCawley respectively, as aforesaid. Government Gazette Notices (1911, May 17). Government Gazette of the State of New South Wales (Sydney, NSW : 1901 - 2001), p. 2867. Retrieved from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article226772440

'Pittwater', courtesy Royal Australian Historical Society (RAHS), via ANMM, no date, likely The Inner Basin, circa 1890-1910-1930

Residents state the Bonnie Doon Wharf was built by the Ku-Ring-Gai Chase National Park in 1914 to provide access for campers and visitors.

Coasters Land map cancelled 1923 showing site of pier/jetty at 'B'

 ‘pier’ on 1922 and 1925 tourist maps showing site of The Basin Jetty and Bonnie Doon pier at Coasters Retreat. Section from full map - 'Ku-ring-gai Chase, the National Park along the Hawkesbury River [cartographic material] / compiled, drawn and printed at the Department of Lands, Sydney, N.S.W., 1922 – on 1925 version too. Variant title; Map and tourist's guide to Pittwater and Ku-ring-gai Chase. shows pier at Coasters Retreat - SLNSW_FL9189590 and pamphlet text' courtesy State Library of NSW

"The Basin Swimming pool Pittwater" - "Looking across water towards bushland rising in background, fence visible across surface of water." Title continues: "The fence is to keep the sharks out." [ca. 1926-ca. 1928].by Gladys E. Moss, 1900-1950, photographer. "The Basin; Pittwater" - Title inscribed on album page beneath image.- Courtesy State Library of Victoria, Image No. :701711210

"Looking along water towards two men walking across wooden bridge". Inscribed on album page next to image: "The netting under the footbridge keeps the sharks from the bathing-pool on this side. The rock in the foreground is jagged with oysters." [ca. 1926-ca. 1928].by Gladys E. Moss, 1900-1950, photographer.  "The Basin; Pittwater" - Title inscribed on album page beneath image. Courtesy - also described as 'an inlet of Cowan creek' for this Image No.: 701711211, Courtesy State Library of Victoria.

The December 28 1920 Warringah Shire Council Minutes of Meeting record:

Item 12. Scott &Scott, 24/12/20, further re subdivision of part of Sub. A. Portion 15, Coaster's Retreat, Pittwater. : Resolved, (Crs. Quirk and Campbell) That they be informed that the Council adheres to its requirement that Lot 15 should have a frontage to the public foreshores reservation. 

The same council's minutes of the same year provide nearby insights on what was happening:

February 9 1920: 23. Mrs. P. M. Stiles, 7/2/20, requesting permission to further re_subdivide Portion 10, Little Mackerel Beach, Parish Broken Bay and to sell the portion adjoining the Lot already sold Resolved, (Councijior Quirk, Councillor

April 19 1920: that Mr. Trevor-Jones be asked to dedicate a portion of his land fronting Newport Lagoon to the Council. 

June 21, 1920: Dredging & Reclaiming Narrabeen Lagoon works proposal: The Suburban Subdivision Company’s proposal for dredging Narrabeen lagoon was considered. A letter from Lagoon the Public Works Department of 12/6/20, setting forth the conditions under which approval to the dredging will be given was read. Resolved. (Councillors Quirk, Corkery) That Condition No, 2 be amended to provide that no dredging should be carried out within a distance of 50 feet of the lee of the bank extending from the bridge to the south west corner of Collins land, Resolved, (Cr, Quirk, Cr. Campbell) That Condition No. 7 be agreed to on the understanding that no reclamation will be allowed along the causeway between the large bridge and the south west corner of Collins' land, except at such corner, where Council will agree to reclamation of about two chains, so that greater depth may be given to the Lots of the subdivision fronting the main road. It was further decided that such reservation should be noted in red ink on the plan, and initialled by the President and Clerk. Resolved (Crs. Quirk &. Corkery) That the Company's proposal and the Department's conditions in regard thereto, as now amended, be approved, and that the President, or Deputy President, and the Clerk be authorised to sign the plan on behalf of the Council. 

July 26 1920: That the owners of Big Mackerel Beach be asked whether they desire the Council to complete the road work on their subdivision, in respect of which a guarantee deposit was paid by them. 

Minutes of the WSC Meeting of 18th April, 1921 record: Resolved.(Crs. Hitchcock & Hewitt) That the Seal be' affixed to Scott& Scott's amended plan of subdivision Sub. A. of land at Coaster's Retreats Pittwater.

With a 100 foot Reservation in place at Coasters, in 1921 the Howard Castle-Smith subdivision of the acreage at Coaster's Retreat was offered for sale:

Coasters Retreat Subdivision, Easter 1921. Item No.: c053460039, from Pittwater Subdivisions Folder - courtesy State Library of NSW

BROKEN BAY. BROKEN BAY.
THE BASIN. THE BASIN.
THE YACHTMAN'S PARADISE.
THE BASIN ESTATE.
SURROUNDED BY KURING-GAI CHASE, AND THE
ONLY LAND AVAILABLE FOR SUBDIVISION.
FOURTEEN CHOICE BUILDING BLOCKS.
Fronting WATER-FRONTAGE RESERVE in this
much-sought after position.
TORRENS TITLE.
TERMS; 10 per cent, deposit, balance 12 quarterly
payments at 0 per cent,
Lithos on application.
SPECIAL LAUNCH WILL LEAVE NEWPORT AT
2 P.M., RF.TURNING ABOUT 5 P.M. TICKETS ON
APPLICATION TO AUCTIONEERS.
This Fine Estate, with Northerly aspect, will be
submitted to Public Auction In Lots, on
EASTER SATURDAY, MARCH 26,
On the Ground, at 3.30 p.m.,
by
MARSHALL AND DEMPSTER,
AUCTIONEERS,
112 PITT STREET, OPP. G.P.O.
H. J. ASPINALL,
Solicitor for the Estate. (C6) '
SCOTT and SCOTT, Surveyors to Estate. Advertising (1921, March 23). The Daily Telegraph (Sydney, NSW : 1883 - 1930), p. 21. Retrieved from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article239729367

He sells Lot 8 to John Perry Adkins on January 2 1922 -Vol-Fol: 3289-57. This is transferred to his Widow, Lydia Janet Adkins of Mosman, on December 12 1923. She transfers the land to John Bryden Adkins of Mosman, Miller, on November 28 1923. He sells it to W. Taylor Limited on March 10 1930, and they hold onto this until January 21 1980 when it is transferred to Udie Solomon of Double Bay, Company Director.

Percy Norton Russell, Artist of Sydney, buys Lot 9 December 9 1923 Vol-Fol: 3542-151 – he transfers some to Aubrey Albert Russell of Bondi, Gentleman, on April 24 1939 and this becomes Vol-Fol: 5042-184 and for Aubrey: Vol-Fol 5042-185. Aubrey’s section to Nancy Evelyn Russell, Widow, on July 27 1948. Audrey Evelyn Shepherd and Stuart Norton Russell become joint tenants (owners) on March 6 1984. Percy sells his part of the holding to Victor Albert Boyd, solicitor, and George Alan Nunn Pattrick of Strathfield on April 16 1948. George passes away and Ian James Maxwell, another solicitor, form Sydney, becomes joint tenant with Victor Albert Boyd. 

Lot 6 is bought by Elizabeth Mansted, wife of Anthony Mansted of Hawkesbury River, Engineer – CofT in Vol-Fol: 3611-168 on December 31 1922. She sells to Johanna May Alldritt, wife of William Francis Alldritt of Coogee, Turf Commission Agent on August 4 1926. William Morthey Alldritt of Lewisham, Storeman, becomes owner on February 16 1960 and then John Reginald Alldritt and Pamela Margaret Alldritt, his wife, both of Coasters Retreat, become joint tenants on September 20 1975. This records the Alldritt family have been part of Coaster’s retreat life for 100 years this year, although records show the Aldritt family had connections through marriage with the Bulfin family of Newport Hotel from 1915. More in: John 'Allships' Alldritt - The Barefoot Legend Of Pittwater 

Lots 4, 5 and 10 of Deposited Plan 10830 are purchased by Robert Grant on October 3rd 1924 and he is given 20 months to pay. No Vol-Fol or C of T reference registered on sale sheet. 

Lot 11 is bought by James Henry Hughes on October 3 1924, he is given 38 months, and the C of T is registered in Vol-Fol: 3653-91

Lot 2 is bought by Charles William Oakes – Vol-Fol: 3655-65

Lot 3 goes to Albert Wilde Thornton registered in Cof T Vol-Fol: 3659-37, on July 22 1924

Lot 7 bought by Ernest Edgar Middleton on October 3 1924 Vol-Fol: 3667-86 

Lot 12 goes to Lorimer Llewellyn Griffiths of Randwick, Manufacturer, on December 16 1924, Vol-Fol: 3680-130 and containing One rood and ¾ of a perch. The Public Trustee eventually sells this to John Arthur Goulding  on February 22 1968.

Lot 14 goes to Norman Louis Frey Josephson Vol-Fol: 4102-215 on December 15 1927

Lot 13 is sold to Frederick Horace Willmott of Surry Hills, Labourer, Vol-Fol: 4694-36 on May 3 1935.

Howard Castle-Smith, of Woolwich and Sydney; overdue rates, £80 8s. 10d.; land, lot 1, being part of portion 15, Coasters Retreat, Broken Bay. OVERDUE RATES.—SHIRE OF WARRINGAH.—Land to be Sold (1943, June 25). Government Gazette of the State of New South Wales (Sydney, NSW : 1901 - 2001), p. 1098. Retrieved from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article222037688 

The Basin 'Jetty' - RMYC Royal Volunteer Coastal Patrol's Rescue exercises 1939, Item: SLNSW_FL9688912, courtesy State Library of NSW, The Mitchell Library

(1939). December 23, Pix, Volume 4, No. 26, pages 8-9. Retrieved from http://nla.gov.au/nla.obj-467076244

On December 20 1944 the Public Trustee, ‘in exercise of the power conferred by the Local Government Act 1919’, transfers to James John Errington of Waverly, Waterside Worker ‘of part’ (of the land) and this then becomes Vol-Fol: ‘5502-145 for residue’ which is measured as comprising 5 acres 1 rood and 34 perches.

Vol-Fol: 5502-145:

James John Errington Vol-Fol: 5502-145, Certificate of Title registered June 22 1945, sells to Thomas Ede Pearce of Waverly, Retired, and his wife Muriel Greta Pearce on June 7 1948. They sell to Antony John Macken, Articled Clerk, and John Christian Macken, Public Servant, both of Balgowlah, on October 21 1960, and which becomes officially the Macken family's on November 30 1960. That Deed is cancelled and placed into Lots 1 and 2 for the acreage of Vol-Fols: 9763-132 and 9763-133 respectively, after 1963. Deposited Plan 222622.

The further 'residue', of 59 acres, came under Executors on March 15 1935 in Vol-Fol 4683-100, named as the Perpetual Trustee Company and Donald Macintyre of Chatswood, Gentleman.

This land became the holding of Alfred Edward Bennett on March 12 1935, from whom we get the name 'Bennett's wharf' to provide access to these land lots and homes. The land sales are listed in Volume-Folio 4683-100 and continue until 1949:

The full list of land sales under 'Extras' below.

On December 1st 1947 Alfred Edward Bennett transfers to George Burton Bennett of Darling Point, Industrial chemist, and Ruby Evelyn Goffin (née Bennett 1913-1972), wife of George Robert Goffin of Brisbane, Engineer as joint tenants of part – Vol-Fol: 5838-21 – this comprises 53 acres, two roods and thirty-one perches.

Vol-Fol: 5838-21:

Land sales in Vol-Fol 6865-84 - comprises 49 acres, 1 rood and 39 perches - these sales continue into 1958:

As stated above, residents of Coasters Retreat wanted to keep the landscape and culture of this offshore community as real as possible - free from contrivances and postures. 

The post WWII way of life in Pittwater supported this with many local sailors carrying forward that culture of wind, water and sail that stretches back thousands of years.

In 'Coasters Retreat, the small sailing community that helped launch the Sydney Hobart Yacht Race' By Michael Troy, ABC News, December 25 2021 edition, Mr. Troy shares anecdotes from those days, including that land buyer at Coasters, Selwyn Dickinson, who owned a yacht called 'Sea Rover', was mates with Chips Rafferty and marine artist Jack Earl, and, with the Japanese in retreat by 1944, the Coasters Retreat boys often headed out to sea under the guise that they were helping keep an eye out for Japanese submarines. Peter Luke's "Wayfarer" and Charlie Cooper's "Asgard" were among those that volunteered for the surveillance duty. 

Neville Watkins recalled a "rebel" group of sailors from Coasters Retreat split from the Royal Prince Alfred Club and would unofficially race three Saturdays out of four, races that always ended at 'Dicko's' place. Norwegian shipping broker Sverre Berg and mining engineer John MacDiarmid Royle, both of whom purchased land at Coasters, also became part of the group. Mr. Berg, who owned a yacht called 'Horizon'and  was one of the original Sydney Hobart sailors, would go on to become Commodore of the CYCA.

The main meeting venue within the Cruising Yacht Club of Australia (CYCA) building is called the Coasters Retreat room on Level 1. 

CYCA recently completed refurbishments to the clubhouse and state:

When you climb the spotted-gum timber stairs to the members-only area, The Coasters Retreat, there is an elegant change in design. The contemporary concrete finishes give way to a warmer selection of materials, carpet and brass fittings.

Internally the space is divided by a double-sided fire place which offers a quiet and more relaxed lounge environment to the right, with an archives/reading space where the Board Room used to be. On the other side of the fire place is the new bar area, with high-back stools, tables and two longer benches. New glass sliding doors run the width of the upper floor offering enhanced soundproofing, a key issue addressed in all upstairs functions rooms. There is now only one expanded access point from Coasters Retreat into the Morna Room on the water side.

Yacht "Morna" rounding the buoy. Crewman up on halyard at Pittwater Regatta. Photo by Sam Hood, Jan 1st, 1934.

Their first "cruise" was from Manly to Coasters in Pittwater on the October long weekend in 1944. The fleet included: Archina, Asgard, Julnar, Horizon, Kathleen Gillett, Moonbi, Saltair, Stormbird, Enterprise, Thetis, White Wings, Wayfarer and Zephyr.

Mr. Watkins noted that Coasters was packed with anchored yachts and the party at Dicko's went on for some time. The Dicko's tin can cup was upgraded to the Founders Cup and won by Trygve Halvorsen's yacht, Enterprise.

They then decided to go a little further - all the way to Hobart. John Gordon, who was part of that first race December 1945 as a teenager, recalled:

What was the first one like?

Bloody hard work. The name of the yacht was the Winston Churchill. Beautiful boat. The history of the Winston Churchill is a wonderful thing. I started my sailing as bailer boy in my father’s 18 footer on the harbour before WWII, and I bailed Sydney Harbour out at least twice. It was a good upbringing. I started in a VJ there and I’ve always been interested in sailing, it’s in my blood. 

Bob Ross who founded Australian Sailing, a couple of other friends nominated me for anniversary celebrations. What came up was the 60th anniversary, the 50th anniversary was in 1994, so 2004 was the 60th and they looked around for anyone that was still alive and there were only six of us. One was the bloke who won it, Captain John Illingworth, his navigator was a Royal Navy lieutenant, Ray Richmond, and Ray was out here in Australia in 2004, so Ray, Geoff Ruggles and myself were the only three, Peter Luke was too sick. The three of us started the 60th rush; fired the cannons and all that sort of caper. 

The papers ran:

SYDNEY-HOBART YACHT RACE - CONSIDERABLE interest, not only in yachting circles but by the public generally, is being taken in the yacht race from Sydney to Hobart, which begins on Boxing Day. 

Ten entries have been received-eight from Sydney, and one each from Hobart and Melbourne.

Tasmanians will follow closely the performance of Winston Churchill, P. Coverdale's fine 52ft. cruiser, which is one of the largest and fastest on the Derwent. 

Other boats, entered are Saltair, Archina II., Kathleen, Wayfarer, Mistral II., Morna, Rani, Ambermerle, all of Sydney, and Warrana from Victoria. 

With favourable weather the boats should reach Hobart in about a week. The Cruising Yacht Club of Sydney, which is conducting the race in conjunction with the RYCT, has arranged for a daily aerial reconnaissance to be made by the RAAF, which will report the boats' positions. 

The Royal Ocean Racing Club's yacht rating rule will be used to assess the results for the award of the trophies. The rule, which was drawn up as a result of many years of experience, equalises the chances of yachts of widely differing types and sizes. It makes allowance, among other factors, for high freeboard, heavy hull construction, deep hulls, bulwarks, and propellers. Boats of cruising type with short overhang receive a lower rating than similar size boats of racing form. Rig allowances are granted to ketches, schooners, yawls, and a gaff sail receives an allowance on a Bermudan sail of the same area. Trophies will be awarded to the first four boats to finish under the RORC rating, and a special prize will be given to the first yacht to finish irrespective of rating.  SYDNEY-HOBART YACHT RACE. (1945, December 21). The Mercury (Hobart, Tas. : 1860 - 1954), p. 14. Retrieved from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article26154482

BIG YACHTS BEGIN EXCITING RACE FROM SYDNEY TO HOBART Rani leading Salt Air and Mistral just after the nine competitors  in the yacht race from Sydney to Hobart had entered open water yesterday. The race began with a flying start from Quarantine Point, inside Port Jackson  at 11 o'clock. (Story, page 4.) BIG YACHTS BEGIN EXCITING RACE FROM SYDNEY TO HOBART. (1945, December 27). The Sydney Morning Herald(NSW : 1842 - 1954), p. 1. Retrieved from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article17964643 

Archina had to retire. The Winston Churchill led all the way only to become becalmed off the coast of Tasmania. The Rani won, Captained by R.N. Captain Illingworth in what has become the longest race winner record!: 

The Winston Churchill, which had led all the way, is thought to be be-calmed off the east coast of Tasmania OCEAN YACHT RACE SYDNEY TO HOBART. (1946, January 3). Cairns Post (Qld. : 1909 - 1954), p. 2. Retrieved from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article42477854 Winston Churchill image from -Ocean Yacht Race:: Troops Return by Wanganella. (1946, January 1). The Argus (Melbourne, Vic. : 1848 - 1957), p. 7. Retrieved from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article22219974

Kathleen Gillett's crew - 1945 - in Hobart - Jack Earl at front on right. Picture courtesy ANMM and CYCA

CREW of the Rani 9 at Constitution Dock). Owner-captain, Captain J. H. Illingworth, R.N., is at right. Wives waited for racing yachts at Hobart. (1946, January 19). The Australian Women's Weekly (1933 - 1982), p. 11. Retrieved from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article47209487

John Gordon also consorted with Coasters sailors when he moved here, permanently, along with other legends:

''When I came up here (Pittwater), I knew Darkie Griffin, a legend. He had a boatshed down where the quays are now. I was always hanging around there and he built my first boat and I finished it off. I say to people ‘I did my apprenticeship with Darkie Griffin’.

My little trailer sailor, it was John Griffin, the son, who pioneered them and he talked me into getting one and I could never beat him. Hold on… I beat him once in a regatta. I was up in top class; this was on Pittwater and in the States and the Nationals, sailed in all those. I sailed with the Prince Alfred boats as crew, I had good navigational experience and worked well as a general boat hand.''

The Earl family continued and continue to visit Pittwater:

Ketch's World Cruise Delayed

A leak in the stern bearing of her auxiliary engine has delayed the world cruise of the ketch Kathleen, now lying at Pittwater, 20 miles north of Sydney. Kathleen, skippered by her owner, Jack Earl, and with a crew of four, left Sydney on Saturday afternoon, and put into Pittwater early on Saturday night. Earl plans to have the leak plugged by tomorrow, and then to leave for Gladstone (Queensland). He and the crew yesterday "slipped" Kathleen stern-first on logs alongside a stone jetty in Coasters' Retreat, Pittwater. They worked in shallow water to remove the propeller shaft and the leaking bearing. 

"We planned to put into Pittwater for only a few hours last night to lash down some stores and to wait for a decent breeze," said Earl yesterday.

"But the leak was becoming worse, and we decided to fix it properly. "We have missed a favorable wind, but we hope to sail to Gladstone in one 'hop.'" 

Earl's wife and his two children, Michael (13) and Marie (10), will join the yacht at Gladstone and sail with her to Thursday Island. Ketch's World Cruise Delayed (1947, June 9). The Daily Telegraph (Sydney, NSW : 1931 - 1954), p. 9. Retrieved from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article248481775 

And those RPAYC 'rebels' were still part of the RPAYC community. The Dicko Cup at the Royal Prince Alfred Yacht Club (RPAYC) is named after S.R. Dickinson ("Dicko"), who originated the fun-loving sailing event in the early 1950s. The 53rd official edition took place in January 2026 (its usual month for celebrations) over the Australia Day long weekend, through Pittwater's RPAYC. The family-friendly social regatta featured fleet races, a sailaway to Hallett's Beach, and a BYO beach BBQ.

At the inaugural RMYC Pittwater Festival Tiare Tomaszewski, one of the owners of Maris, a beautiful Alan Payne-designed, Jock Muir built Tasman Seabird, took part. Tiare is the granddaughter of the original owner of the Kathleen Gillett, Jack Earl. Tiare, who is yet absolutely another of the next generation of saltwater in their veins, kindly shared some insights and we tracked down a few others - including a little on 'Chips Rafferty' of Lovett Bay, Pittwater.

More in: A Salty Tale of the Kathleen Gillett – A Small Reminder and Celebration of Our 70th Sydney to Hobart, 2014 and John L. Gordon (1927-2021) - Profile - took part in first Sydney to Hobart Yacht Race and John William Pilbean Goffage MBE ''Chips Rafferty'' of Lovett Bay: Victory in the Pacific Day 2021

With much of the land snapped up during these land sales, Warringah Shire Council Minutes of Meetings provide insights on local works and residents:

The Meeting held on June 24 1929 records:  78. P. U. Allay. 15/6/29. Again complaining of inaccessibility of properties at Great Mackerel Beach on account of the condition of the wharf, also requesting  consideration of the question of providing a road from West Head Road to give access to Great Mackerel beach, Little Mackerel Beach and The Basin. To be informed that this wharf will be given favourable consideration in the formulating of the next loan proposal for A. Riding, and that the Council cannot see its way to give consideration to the second request. .

The Meeting held May 2nd 1944.: a) that regarding H.W.B. Livesay's buildings at Coasters' Retreat, proper plans and specifications be provided in accordance with the Ordinance, and fees paid, and he be informed the Council views the breach seriously and no further work must be carried out without Council's permission; 

The Tuesday, 23rd May, 1944 Meeting records: a) That Application No. 9 H.W. Livesay - timber cottage, Coasters Retreat, be approved subject to ceiling height of all living roots being at least 9 ft.; 

At the Ordinary Meeting held February 5, 1946: (34) Kuring-Gai Chase Trust, 30/1946, referring to letter from A. E. Bennett forwarded to the Trust by the Council, regarding unsightly lavatories at The Basin, and suggestion that the 100- ft. reservation on the southern side of The Basin might be transferred to the Council; the Trust's reply being to the effect that Mr. Bennett should know the difficulties regarding building, and that if there are any unsightly buildings on the Trust's land, the necessary steps will be taken when labour and materials are available, and emphatically stating that The Trust would not agree to any transfer of the 100-ft. reservation. Resolved, - That a copy of the Trust's letter be sent to Mr. Bennett. (Crs. Raffo Walehum) 

The Meeting held November 11 1947 records: The Shire Clerk reported verbally that three Court actions against the Council had been listed for hearing, viz - (2) W. Parley - Land & Valuation Court 15/12/47 - Appeal Buildings against Council's refusal to approve of a building application: (3) A. E. Bennett (Land & Valuation Court 15/12/47) - Appeal against Council's failure to approve of a subdivision at SubDd. A. Coasters' Retreat, Pittwater: Resolved; That the Kuring-gai Chase Trust be asked to support the Council before the Court in this case. (Crs. Harris, Dunbar)

The July 7 1952 meeting records: Jetty at Coasters Retreat: An amendment that the Council affirm that it will carry out repairs to the jetty, owned by Kuring-gai Chase Trust, provided there is no cost to the Council; and an estimate to be submitted to the Trust was lost.

At the Ordinary Meeting, February 1st 1954. : is in process of reclamation, and on completion of the reclamation the reserve will be gazetted and the Council appointed as trustee. 19. Resolved: That this matter be referred to the Shire Clerk for full report. (Crs. McKay) Gwynne) . Department of Lands, 18/1/54, replying to Council's letter of 1672/51) regarding complaint of growth of young mangroves at Careel Bay, stating that the question of an arranged tenancy over the land referred to has been given consideration, but in view of the nature of the area it is considered extremely unlikely that any tenancy with conditions attached to provide for the eradication of the mangroves could be arranged. Resolved, _That the letter be ;received;) and 20. the Shire Engineer submit a report as to any recommendation regarding mangrove growths, and as to whether permission has been given for the pumping of sand at Careel Bay. (Crs. Simmonds, McKay) (0) Coasters Retreat Progress Association, 19/1/54, informing Council of the names of its Executive Officers) and forwarding copy of Constitution. ‘Received’; and noted. (P) Avalon Beach Progress Association, 14/154, further regarding letter of 24/11/53 re mosquito nuisance, and suggesting that if the Council has no power to enforce owners to fill in swamp lands, that letters be sent to owners asking them to do so willingly. 21. Resolved; that this be referred to the Health & Building Committee. (Crs. McKay, Corkery) (Q) John Davis, Jnr., 15/1/54) stating that the pavilion and beach obstruction have now been removed from his jetty at Palm Beach and requesting that Council give consideration to allowing him to retain the extension to the jetty, stating that this work was carried out through his oversight in not supervising the Contractor properly, and has been in existence for approximately six years. 22. Resolved; That consideration of this matter be deferred

The Meeting held February 15 1954 records: Government Gazette notice, advising prohibition of taking of fish by means of nets of every description in the waters of that part of Pittwater south-west of a line drawn from the south-east corner of Portion 10 at the southern end of Little Mackerel Beach to Soldiers Point, embracing Coasters Retreat 17. and The Basin, for a period of five years from 1/2/54. 'Received'. 

The Meeting held October 27 1958 records: Cumberland County Council: forwarding for Completion under Seal, Declaration of Trust in respect of Transfer of Lot 3, DP 23104, Lovett Bay. Resolved; that this Document be Completed. Coasters’ Retreat Progress Association 16/10/58 regarding pathway between Bennett’s wharf and Bonnie Doon wharf, and council’s reply that the reserve through which ii is formed is under the control of the Kuring-Gai Chase Trust, and that it cannot expend its funds upon maintenance thereof; requesting that the council give specific details of the various rating assessments issued to owners in that area, and inquiring if the fact that the various lots front an unmade pathway, out of the control of council, is taken into consideration when rates are assessed. Response; That Kuring-Gai Chase Trust be informed that the Council regards this work as its (The Chases’) responsibility, and that the Council offer to carry out the works on the Trusts’ behalf on payment of the amount due; and the Engineer prepare an estimate top be forwarded with the letter; that the Council advise the Coasters’ Retreat Progress Association of the action taken by the Council and that all facts are taken into consideration when the Valuer General assess rateable values. (Crs. Fisher/Reynolds.) Coasters’ Retreat Progress Association – 16/10/58- asking that a Building Inspector make an early inspection of structures in the area from Soldiers’ Point on the western shores of Pittwater to Bonnie Doon wharf, residents being concerned about the erection of structures which obviously have not been subject of Council’s consideration. Received; Chief Health and Building Inspector stated this inspection had already been carried out. 

The December 6 1958 meeting records:

 (Z) Kuring-gai Chase Trust,. 28/11/58, replying that although the pathway between Bennett's wharf and Bonnie Doone Wharf may be within the 100-ft. reservation it is used almost exclusively by the owners of property on Soldiers Point, and it is not regarded as the Trust's responsibility to expend any funds on its maintenance. (NOTE: At Ordinary Meeting 27/10/58, on consideration of a letter from Coasters Retreat Progress Association, Council considered work on this pathway a matter for the Trust). 49.Resolved; That the Trust be informed that this Council abides by normal rules, and that since this land is in the Trust's area it is considered the responsibility of the Trust irrespective of whom it serves, and that further consideration be given to the project by the Trust. (Crs. Fisher/Reynolds). (AA) Coal & Candle Creek Bush Fire Brigade, 26/11/58, stating that the Brigade was formed on 25/11/58, and requesting formal appointment of C. Green as Captain, and F. King and P. Moore as Deputy Captains. 50.Resolved, That these appointments be approved. (Crs. Jones/Reynolds.--(AB) Avalon Bowling & Recreation Club, 25/11/58, requesting co-operation in beautifying Dunbar Park by permitting the Club to draw a further 1,000 tons of sand from the sand-hills at North Avalon, the Club to pay the cost of transport. 51.Resolved; That the request be approved. (Crs. Reynolds/ McClelland).

At the Meeting held on October 3, 1961:

(AS) Ampol Petroleum Ltd., 28/9/61 ; re proposed fuel installation for Basin Mackerel Beach Ferry ; advising further discussions with the Ferrymaster and committee members of the Broken Bay Game Fishing Club have resulted in the latter party's unwillingness to enter: into a signed agreement regarding this installation but that Mr. Buhl is agreeable to having responsibility for both petrol and distillate and can arrange with the Game Fishing Club to draw supplies for their members. Adding-that after conferring with the Shire President: the proposed agreement (amended) is forwarded, for Council's approval. Note Council resolved 0/M. 18.9.61 F/0.26 ',That the Engineer's report be received and adopted and that (a) additions to jetty be approved, subject to approval of structural details by. Shire Engineer and work being effected without cost to Council; (b) installation of petrol pump be approved; (c) erection of timber shed be refused as undesirable for the locality; (d) Agreement be entered into by applicants with Council. Resolved; That this matter be referred to the Finance Committee and that a report be brought forward from either the Shire Engineer or the Shire Clerk in relation to the Agreement ' and the plans. (Crs. Wade/Bertram.)„

Adjourned Ordinary Meeting, 9/3/1962:

BUSINESS WITHOUT NOTICE : INTRODUCED BY THE PRESIDENT. BASIN & MACKERAI BEACH FERRY SERVICE. The President announced that he had received a letter dated 7th March, 1962 from C.P. and D.W. Buhl, The Basin & Mackerel Beach Ferry Service, requesting that Council consider the granting of a franchise to operate from the Public Wharf at Pittwater Park, Palm Beach, such request having arisen out of the persistent habit of another ferry service outside the area picking up passengers from the public wharf and conveying them to the Basin picnic grounds at weekends and on public holidays. 37.Resolved; That this matter be referred to Council's solicitors for report re the granting of a licence.

A Bushfire Brigade for Coasters

The Warringah Shire Council minutes of meetings also chart the journey for Coasters Retreat residents to establish some bushfire protections for themselves, given they are surrounded by bushland and the Ku-ring-gai Chase National Park. 

The Warringah Shire Council June 11 1963 meeting records:

(B) Miss J.R. Keed. Coasters' Retreat, Palm Beach,28.5.63, listing names of certain members of Coasters Retreat Progress Assn. who, voted at their Annual General Meeting on 17.3.63 in favour of a motion that the Assn. apply for a fire break/fire trail to Coasters' Retreat. 38 Resolved; that this matter be referred to the Warringah Bush Fire Committee. (Crs. Beckman/McLean). 

The August 30 1963 meeting records: FIRE TRAIL - COASTER'S RENRAT. Cr. Wilson moved in pursuance of notice, That the Ku-ring-gai Chase Trust be requested to reconsider its decision not to permit the construction of a fire trail to Coaster's Retreat. The motion was seconded by Cr. Job, and CARRIED.

At the October 14 1963 meeting: BUSINESS WITHOUT NOTICE: INTRODUCED BY CR. PICKETT-HEAPS. CONSTRUCTION OF FIRE TRAIL TO COASTER'S RETREAT. (See also letter 'X' Precis of Correspondence, tonight's meeting). Permission having been granted by the President, this matter was introduced by Cr. Pickett-Heaps, who stated that he had been advised by the Coaster's Retreat Progress Association that they are prepared to construct a fire, trail at their own expenses estimated to cost £150. 25, Resolved, That this Council request the Outer Sydney Bush Fire Protection Organisation to approve the application of the Coaster’s Retreat Progress Association to construct at their own expense a fire trail from the road leading to West Head to Coaster's Retreat; and that a copy of this letter be for warded to the Ku-ring-gal Chase Trust; and the Coaster's Retreat Progress Association be advised accordingly. (Crs. Pickett-Heaps/Adcock'.)

By November 11 1963: (C) Coaster's Retreat Progress Association, 30.10.63, stating that to date they have received no communication from the Outer Sydney Bush Fire Protection Organisation regarding their offer re construction of a fire trail to Coaster's Re treat. (D) Outer Sydney Bush Fire Protection Organisation, 10.10:63, advising that in regard to the construction of a fire trail to Coaster’s Retreat, since the area in question is within Ku -ring -gal Chase, that Organisation has no authority in the matter of approval of the trail. Adding that as the Progress Association wishes to build the trail at its own costs, by its own means, and apparently for the main object of providing access, and thereby affecting such major issues as land valves, rates, ferry services, etc., the matter is entirely outside the competence of that Organisation. (1) Ku-ring-gal Chase Trust; 4.11.63, re Fire Trail to Coaster's Retreat - advising that the Trustees, reaffirm their previous decision and refuse to give permission for a fire trail to be constructed: from the West Head Roid Coaster's Retreat. Resolved, That the 'State representative, Mr. R W Askin MLA be requested by Council to thoroughly investigate the refusal by the Ku-ring-gai: Chase Trust and the attitude adopted by the Outer Sydney Bushfire Protection. (S) Ellitt & Law; Solicitors, 4.11.63, forwarding Notice of Intended action claiming damages in the sum of £20,000 for alleged injuries sustained by Mrs. M.W. Pepp, 34 Oak Street, North Narrabeen with care, control and management of its Jackson's Road Tip. Note: This Notice has been referred to the Council's Public Risk Insurers. The Government Insurance Office of New South Wales and the Deputy Engineer has been requested to forward a full report. 62. Noted. (Crs. Mauer/Jones).  Ku-ring-Rai Chase Trust, 4.11.63, re fire trail _Coaster's Retreat. Dealt with earlier in the evening _See Minute No. 46. 

The January 20 1964 meeting records: 'Outer-Sydney Bushfire Prevention Organisation forwarding minutes of 34th meeting of the Management Committee held on,11.12.63. Resolved, That the Outer Sydney Bushfire Protection Organisation be requested to make an early investigation of the need for a fire trail to Coasters Retreat. - (Cre':.:Becknan/mhver). 

The Minutes of the Meeting held March 2nd 1964 record there's still discussions taking place and:- Outer Sydney Bushfire Protection Organisation, 10.2.64, advising an inspection was carried out on 28.1.64 regarding the fire trail to Coasters Retreat and it will be discussed at the next meeting of the Committee. Asking if Council would be prepared to form and equip a bushfire brigade at Coasters Retreat. 66. Resolved, That the Outer Sydney Bush Fire Protection Organisation be advised that this Council is still of the opinion that a fire trail to Coasters Retreat is an urgent necessity, and it will assist in the equipping of a bush fire brigade; the Warringah Bushfire Equipment Establishment Committee to be asked to take this matter into consideration when formulating its 1964 Central Fund requirements. (Crs. Beckman/Riles). Petition from Mrs. M.E. Turner. 21/9 Mandelong Road, Mosman, and 16 others, 25.2.64, objecting to the establishment of a fire trail or any other form of road access to Coasters Retreat. 87. Resolved, That the petitioners be informed that this Council is of the opinion that a fire trail to Coasters Retreat is an urgent necessity. (Crs.Beckman/Maver). .Z2 (138) Mona Vale Chamber of Commerce, 6.2.64, stating they are concerned that the proposed ;A; Riding Community Hall, announced in 1963, has not been proceeded with. 88.Resolved, That the Chamber be advised that no action can be taken to commence this Hall in 1964, but consideration will be given to it in 1965.

The March 23 1964 Meeting records: A Mr. J.MacD. Royle 8 Stanton Road Mosman 18.3.64 - objection to the construction of a fire trail to Coasters Retreat. 61. Resolved; that the letter from Mr. J. MacD.Royle be read. (Crs. Gold/Miles). The Shire Clerk gave a precis of the letter and the President agreed that a copy of the letter be made available to C A. Beckman, Miles and Gold and that representatives be permitted to address Council on this matter. 62. Further Resolved, that the writers be advised of Council's decision earlier this evening (see min No.60.) (Crs. Beckman.Niles). During discussion on this item, time 10.29 p.m. Cr. Jones left the Council Chamber. 

On February 10 1947 a lease of Lots 9 and 10 is granted to Charles Paul Royle of Balmoral, Engineering Student (an infant born March 27 1927). Lots 9 and 10 sell to John MacDiarmid Royle of Balmoral, Engineer on May 19 1949, registered October 14 – Vol-Fol: 6079-96

Born 11th August 1887 at Randwick, John was the son of Charles John and Emily Bertha (nee Shaw) Royle. He was educated at King’s College, Goulburn and Sydney University where he gained his degree of Bachelor of Engineering.

Sydney Morning Herald Saturday February 19, 1916:

NEW APPOINTMENTS

The following appointments to the Australian Imperial Forces have been made:-  The provisional appointments of the following second lieutenants are confirmed:- H.E. Trousselot, V.B. West, R.Y. Langdon, W.J. McBride, A.L. Kennedy, B. Priestman, G.T. Crawshaw, J.D. Henry, H.W. Brown, D. Brigstock, P.J. Day, H.V. Seale, C.W. Whyte, P. Caro, J. MacD. Royle, L.G. Wilkins, O.H. Woodward, R.B. Hunter.           

John MacDiarmid Royle enlisted 18th October 1915 and, after completing Mining School on 14th December was assigned to the No.2 Tunnelling Company of the newly formed Mining Corps on 16th December 1915 with the rank of 2nd Lieutenant.  He named his mother, Mrs. Emily Bertha Royle, of “Winton”, Wahroonga, New South Wales, as his Next of Kin. He was promoted Lieutenant 1st May 1916 he was moved to the 4th Tunnelling Company and embarked from Sydney with the 1st Reinforcements to the Mining Corps on 22nd May 1916 on board HMAT A69 Warilda.  

Proceeding overseas to the 2nd A.D.B.D in France 29th August, he was attached to, and taken on strength of, the 1st Aust. Tunnelling Coy. 25th September.  After playing a major role in the firing of mines at Hill 60 and Caterpillar on 7th June 1917, he enjoyed leave in England from 21st September, rejoining his unit 7th October. He was attached to the AEMMBC 18th December 1917 and taken on strength at that unit 10th March 1918, taking further leave in September of that year. He departed England 25th March 1919 on board ‘Port Denison’ for repatriation to Australia, disembarking at Sydney 10th May 1919.  His appointment as an Officer was terminated 27th June 1919, and he was entitled to wear the British War Medal, Victory Medal and Oak Leaf due to a Mentioned in Despatches awarded in 1917.  John MacDiarmid Royle had completed 1347 days service, including 1084 days overseas service.

The 1919 Electoral Roll records John McDiarmid Royle working as a wellborer at Armraynald in  Burketown district. In 1921 John married Eadith M Stephinson at Rockdale, New South Wales. 

In 1930 John MacDiarmid Royle, engineer, and Eadith Mary Royle are living at 42 Ben Boyd Road, Neutral Bay, Sydney.  In 1933 they were living at 37 Johnson Street, Artarmon, Sydney. In 1934 he was a Pall Bearer at the Sydney funeral of his old comrade in arms; Sir Tannatt William Edgeworth David. 

John MacDiarmid Royle served during WW2 from 27th July 1942 to 25th May 1944 as N213766 Captain Royle, RAE (M). His address by then was 8 Stanton Road, Mosman, Sydney where he and Edith had lived since about 1935.

The 1949/1954 Electoral Roll records John, still working as an engineer, and Edith living at 8 Stanton Road, Mosman, Sydney, with Robin Royle, a secretary, and Mary Bethia Royle, typist. From 1958 thru 1972 the Electoral Roll records John, still working as an engineer, and Edith living at 8 Stanton Road, Mosman, Sydney, with Robin Royle, a secretary. 

Sailor and mining engineer John McDiarmid Royle with an electrical switch used to detonate explosives under Hill 60 at the Battle of Messines Ridge.  (Supplied: Australian War Memorial). 

The April 13 1964 Meeting records that although some who owned a weekender or land at Coasters lived at Mosman or further afield, they were still able to speak up form there:  Mr. M.G. Ross, Burnside, Parramatta, 25;3.64, objecting to a fire trail being constructed to Coasters Retreat; adding the person who first proposed this said that what he wanted was access to his property without the public having access. Quite recently he re-affirmed his desire for access because of his fears of the safety of ferry travelling and the inadequacy of the public wharf. I am prepared to attend a Council Meeting and confirm this statement (on oath if necessary). No one is more interested in fire protection than himself, but he agrees with the experts who state a fire trail would serve no useful purpose for fire protection in this area. 52.Resolved, That this matter be referred to the Bushfire Committee which is meeting on 22nd April. (crs. Pickett-Heaps/Adcock). 48) Scotland Island Progress Association, 25.3.64, Re: provision of water supply on Scotland Island; stating that an alternative scheme suggested by the LW's. and D. Board to serve to 140' elevation for filling household tanks deal* off peak periods was considered, and the entire cost would have to be met by local residents. The Board did not advise an estimate of costs of such an alternative scheme. Requesting council to seek feather advice from the Board as follows:- (1) probable cost of the alternative scheme as proposed in their letter to Council of 27.12.63. (2) consideration and details of Government assistance that might be available for such a scheme as is known to have been extended to other isolated areas within the Board's District. 51.Resolved, That the later Board be requested to meet a deputation from Council to discuss this matter and also the provision of water to all areas of the Shire and the provision of sewerage to all areas of the Shire. (Crs. Beckman/Pickett-Heaps). 

The May 4 1964 meeting records: (A45) Outer Sydney Bushfire Protection Organisation; 29.4.64, advising that, following an inspection of the Coasters Retreat area by, Messrs. Kartzoff, Beckman, Richards, Lowther, Dwyer, Buck, the following resolution was passed. ;That Warringah Shire Council be advised that this Committee is of the opinion that protection of Coasters Retreat could be well achieved by control burning-and , that a fire trail from West Head Road to Coasters Retreat is not sufficiently, justified by the degree of fire hazard present. The Committee 'either offers the services of its Executive Officer to advise on the measures that can be taken to ensure the safety of Coasters Retreat from bush fires 99. Resolved, That the Outer Sydney-Bushfire Protection Organisation be advised that this Council's Bushfire Committee is of the opinion that some bush fire protection is necessary, but this shoat-not necessarily be an access road /then to the water, and the request be reconsidered-on that basis. (Cm. Miles/Bookman). (A46) Mona Vale Chamber of Commerce. 30.44644 thanking Council for the use of drawings and model of the proposed: Mona Vale Baby Health and Community Centre at the March meeting. -.With regard to the third building which is to provide for a sports pavilion and -toilet accommodation it was pointed out that Mona Vale Park is now regarded as dangerous and-too small even for Junior Football and Cricket, therefore such a 'building would be superfluous; suggesting the,: establishment a Children’s Library or Scout. Hall in this building. 100. ' Resolved, That the Chamber of Commerce be informed that Council favours this proposal*; and is at present discussing with the architects. (Crs. Beckman/Pickett,Heape).

The following meeting, held May 25 1964, records: Mr. S. R. Dickinson, ‘The Blue Coben’. Coasters Retreat. Via Palm Beach,19.5. re Fire Trail for Coasters Retreat _stating that the allegation that he is, now asking for a ‘road access’ is incorrect. At no time since the application was in March 1963 has there been any attempt, or wish, to alter it in anyway. The original application asked for a fire-break/fire-trail for fire protection and it be closed to the public and used in exactly the same manner as the trail into -Lovetts and Towler Bays, which is completely controlled by a padlocked chained fence. Adding that the President of the Ku-ring-gai. Chase Trust, gave his assurance that the Trust would automatically grant permission for a trail if recommended by the Outer Sydney Bushfire Protection Organisation. Trusting this matter will receive the attention of Council's Bushfire Committee. 

Selwyn Rivers Dickinson of The Basin, Pittwater, Manufacturers Agent, bought Lots 3 and 4 of the Albert Edward Bennett’s holding  - CofT in Vol-Fol: 5848-227 and measure 1 rood 28 ¾ perches. Mr. Dickinson, or 'Dicko' as some locals called him, (1892 - 1971)  was born 1892 in Melbourne,  and died 23 August 1971 at about age 79 at Coasters. 

His holding was sold to Peter Lloyd Gill of North Sydney, Company Director, on December 13th 1973 - formalised January 8, 1974. The property was transferred again on April 17 1986 to Mirfield Holdings Pty. Ltd. and again on September 5 1990 to Ann Guidera Emms.

The word spat may indicate the warm cameraderie of post-World War Two Pittwater had gone.

The July 6 1964  meeting records: W. Alldritt, Deputy Fire Captain, forwarding copies of letters forwarded by him to Mr. Askin and the Chief-Secretary's reply thereto regarding Fire Trail - Coasters Retreat. (B14) Askin, Esq., M.L.A., 16.6.64, forwarding copy of a letter received from the Chief Secretary in answer to representations made regarding a Fire Trail to Coasters Retreat. -65. Resolved, That this Council submit an application for a Fire Trail to Coasters Retreat to the Chief Secretary's Department, requesting a full investigation into construction of the trail. (Crs. Beckman/McLean).

By July 27 1964: The Hon. C.A.Kelly, M.L.A. Chief Secretary and Minister for Tourist Activities. 22.7.64 _advising it is not considered that the proposed location of a fire trail at Coasters Retreat would be appropriate for the construction of a fire trail by the Outer Sydney Bush Fire Protection Organisation. 75 Resolved; that this letter be referred to Coasters Retreat Progress Association. 

By October 12, 1964: Under Secretary. Chief Secretary's Department, 12.10.64, advising the Outer Sydney Bush Fire Protection Organisation is of the opinion that a fire trail at Coasters Retreat is not justified and in any case finance is not available at this stage. The final arrangements would he between Ku-ring-gai Chase Trust and the residents of Coasters Retreat as the trail would be over land vested in that Trust. 7 Resolved, That this Council request the Chief Secretary to receive a deputation to discuss this matter, and a member of the Coasters Retreat Progress Association be also invited. (Crs. Beckman/Maver).

The November 30 1964 records celebration of a Bayview, Pittwater Olympian in the sport of Sailing, and: LETTER OF APPRECIATION _ALDERMAN W.H. NORTHAM. The President announced that a letter had been received from Alderman Northam, expressing the appreciation for the Civic Reception which had been tendered to him and his crew, and directed the Shire Clerk to read the letter to the Council. 72. Noted. Chief Secretary's Department, 16.11.64, advising that as pointed out previously the whole question of the construction of a fire trail at Coasters Retreat is one for determination and agreement between the residents of Coasters Retreat and the Ku-ring-gai Chase Trust. In the circumstances the Department does not consider any useful purpose would be served by the Minister receiving a deputation. 3. Resolved, That the Council again request the Minister to receive a deputation, and that he be acquainted with all the facts of the matter. (Crs.Beckman/Aindsay). 

At the February 8 1965 meeting: CORRESPONDENCE CATEGORY B _WHICH WAS TABLED. . _ (B2) Outer Sydney Bush Fire Prevention Organisation _forwarding minutes of 37th Meeting of the Management Committee held on 19.1.65. 63 Resolved, that the Under Secretary of the Chief Secretary's Department be again requested to request the Chief Secretary to receive a deputation from this Council as a matter of urgency to discuss the matter of the Coasters Retreat fire trail, (Crs. Beckman/Clark). 64 Resolved, that the remainder of the correspondence in Category B be-noted.

The March 22 1965 WSC meeting records: 66 Cr. Beckman: Could repairs to wharf at Coasters Retreat be carried out as a matter of urgency? I will ask the Engineer to have an estimate prepared for the next Works Committee Meeting. 67 That the request by Mrs. R.Mclaughlin for the extension of Binburra Road, North Avalon, be referred to the Works Committee and the Shire Engineer submit an estimate of the cost. Yes. 

By April 12 1965:  6) Careel Bay-North Avalon Progress Association, 20.3.65 - stating that that Association strongly supports any action Council will take to ensure a closed season during certain periods of the year for spearfishing in waters within the Shire boundaries. 4E Resolved,- that the Association be informed of Council's most recent decision. (A9) Chief Secretary's Department, 31.5.65, stating that. in regard to the provision of a fire trail at Coasters Retreat, it is not a matter for decision by Outer Sydney Bush Fire Protection Organisation or that Department-but re... for a decision between residents of the area and Kuringai Chase Trust. Resolved-,That Council seeks a conference with Ku-ring-gai Chase Trust, and that 5 representatives of Coasters Retreat Progress-Association be invited to attend

Weeks later, the meeting held May 24 1965 records: (A6)Ku-ring-Rai Chase Trust, 4.5.65 Re: Fire Trail to Coasters Retreat - advising they are of the opinion that no good purpose would be served by the suggested conference in this matter. Resolved; that Mr. Askin be requested to intervene in this mattes and to arrange a deputation with the Minister for Lands. (Crs. Beckman/Mill).

Meanwhile, a few suburbs south, the meeting held August 16 1965 records: Narrabeen Fire Station, 22.7.65 _extending a cordial invitation for a representative of Warringah Shire Council to attend a farewell function on the occasion of the retirement of volunteer fireman Donald McLean of the Narrabeen Volunteer Brigade to be held at the Pittwater R.S.L., Mona Vale Road, Mona Vale on Friday 27th August, 1965 at 7.30 p.m. Moved by Cr. Beckman seconded Cr. Mill that Cr. Mayer represent council, An Amendment was moved by Cr. Wilson seconded Cr. Knight that Cr. Lindsay represent council. DEFEATED. 45 The MOTION was thereupon CARRIED. 

Minutes Ordinary Meeting held October 25.1965 record the continued pushback - and the tender prices for Mona Vale Memorial Hall:  12 TENDERS. 74 Resolved,- that the tender box be opened, tenders endorsed and referred to the architects, Clarks, Gazzard and Partners for a recommendation to council. (Crs.Bookman/Job). The following tenders were received:- Mona Vale Community Centre - W. & D. Houston, Thornleigh £26,743. 1. 6 B.A. Pickworth & Sons Pty. Ltd., Balgowlah 30,708. 0. 0 Murwell Constructions Pty. Ltd., Lidcombe ,053. 0. 0 31 Samson Building Co. Pty. Ltd., Ryde 31,580. 0. 0 M.S.Rochford, Newport 32,475. 0. 0 Cleveland Constructions, North Manly 34,958. 0. 0 P.A. Molinari Constructions, Forestville 37,875. 0. 0 Crossroad Construction Co.Pty.Ltd. Crows Nest 46,525. 0. 0   The Hon. T.L.Lewis Minister for Lands, via The Hon. R.W.Askin,M.L,A. Premier and Treasurer of New South Wales, 14.10.65 advising in view of the fact that the Outer Sydney Bush Fire Prevention Association is firmly of the opinion that such a trail is not warranted and also that the Ku-ring-gai Chase Trust is opposed to the construction of a fire trail to Coaster's Retreat he does not consider that any good purpose would be served in meeting council's deputation. 7E, Resolved,- that Mr. Askin be requested to seek construction of this fire trail under the same conditions as the Elvina Bay/Towlers Bay fire trail. (Crs. Bookman/Job). 79 Rosolvod,- that the remainder of the correspondence in category R 'be received and notod. (Crs. Uilson/Khight).

The meeting held November 22 1965 records: CORRESPONDENCE CATEGORY B. (B13) The Hon. T.L. Lewis, Minister for Lands, via R.W. Askin, Premier,. and Treasurer of New South Wales: Advising-further inquiries will be made into the matter of a fire trail to Coaster's Retreat. Resolved; that.in view Of the recent serious bush fires in this area' , Mr.jAskin be again asked to make further representations for the establishment, of a afire trail to Coaster's Retreet.'5(0rs.-.Ileokman/ :

The December 20 1965 meeting records: MATTER OF URGENCY! INTRODUCED BY CR. F.M. BECKMAN. FIRE TRAIL TO COASTERS RETREAT. On being granted permission by the President, Cr. Beckman stated that he had attended a conference that day with the Minister for Lands - in company with members of the Coaster's Retreat Progress Association - when the Minister etc.. the delegates a report from Mr. Gabel, Technical Officer of the Bush Fire Committee, suggesting certain things which could be used for the protection of Coaster's Retreat. Cr. Beckman requested that Council forward a copy of the letter, which he handed in, to the Ku- ring-gai Chase Trust, the Warringah Bush Fire Committee, The Outer Sydney Bushfire Protection Organisation and the New South Wales Bush Fire Committee, requesting their comments and suggestions for implementation. 129.Resolved, That Council accede to the request Crs. Beckman/Watts). 

By January 17 1966 it all goes a little .... quiet... with documents going missing: (B7) _Outer Sydney Bush Firs Protection Organisation 5.1.66, re Fire Trail, Coasters Retreat. (Full details aivon on agenda). 64.Resolved, That a copy of this letter be forwarded to the Coaster's Retreat Progress Association. (Crs. Beckman/Huntingdon). 

Then the WSC meeting held March 14 1966 records: Item 10 - Appointment of Fire Control Officer. The President announced receipt of a letter dated 10th March, 1966, from the Outer Sydney Bush Fire Protection Organisation, which was read by the Deputy Shire Clerk. This letter advised that at the meeting of the Management Committee of the Organisation on 23rd February,1966, the opinion was expressed that it would be in the best interest of Warringah Shire to appoint a full time Fire Control Officer. This information was supplied without in any way wishing to influence the Council as to such an appointment. 30.Resolved, That a Fire Co-ordinator be employed, subject to the person selected also being appointed Fire Control Officer by the N.S.W. Government, at a salary of 03,750 p.a.; that his duties be as specified in Shire Clerk's Report No. 147/66 as amended; and that Mr. Brian Smith, Board of Fire Commissioners' representative on the Bush Fire Committee and Mr. Kartzoff, Executive Officer of the Outer Sydney Bush Fire Protection Organisation be requested to assist Council in the selection of this officer. (Crs. Huntingdon/Jenkin). re Item 5 - Fire Trail, Coasters Retreat. During discussion on this item it was moved by Cr. Beckman, seconded by Cr. Knight, That the Bush Fire Committee be requested to arrange a demonstration of a catamaran at Pittwater. CARRIED. BUSINESS WITHOUT NOTICE: INTRODUCED BY CR. BECKMAN. RECOGNITION OF SERVICES RENDERED Et MR. L.M. RHODES. On being granted permission by the President, Cr. Beckman moved, That the Warringah Bushfire Committee be requested to consider the possibility of arranging a function to honour Mr. Rhodes, who has acted in the capacity of Fire Control Officer for some time, and has been connected with the Bushfire Committee for many. years. 33.The motion was seconded by Cr. Mill, and CARRIED

By the June 27 1966 meeting:  Hon. T. L. Lewis, Minister for Lands, addressed to The Premier, Hon. R. W. Askin, MLA, 16.6.66 _re Coaster’s Retreat fire trail, stating that following on-the-spot discussions 'between Officers of his Department, Council representatives and other interested parties, an alternative plan has been agreed upon for the fire protection of Coaster's Retreat. Particulars of the plan are included in a Report attached to the letter. 74. Resolved, that the letter be referred to the Warringah Bushfire Committee.

The meeting held August 8 1966 records: Outer Sydney Bush Fire Protection Organisation, 22.7.66, advising that a trail from west to east will be built across Soldiers Point Peninsula, to be followed, if possible, by a trail from southwest to northeast along the back boundary of the properties at Coasters Retreat; seeking assurance of Council's support in the event of active local opposition. 56. Resolved, That this item be referred to the Bushfire Committee for consideration. (Crs. Huntingdon/Lindsay). ..  H. Wilshire-Webb, Son & Doyle, Solicitors, forwarding the following documents for execution under seal:- Proclamation for transfer of Lot 11 for public garden and space- subdivision Rednal St., Mona Vale; Application to Registrar for title deed.; Lot 17, D.P.217688;.

The National Parks and Wildlife Service (NPWS) was established in 1967 when the Fauna Protection Panel and the Parks and Reserves Branch of the NSW Lands Department were amalgamated under Lands Minister Tom Lewis AO. Lewis also established a charity, the National Parks Foundation, to assist the NPWS in raising funds for conservation. The first Co-ordinator General of the NPWS was Sam P. Weems, a former superintendent in the US National Park Service. Seven years after the founding of the NPWS, various state laws regulating flora and fauna were consolidated together into the National Parks and Wildlife Act 1974.

On 1 October 1967 the Service began an independent existence, with the Director of National Parks and Wildlife directly responsible to the Minister. The Act reserved twenty five areas, as National Parks, State Parks and Historic Sites, to be administered by the National Parks and Wildlife Service. Ku-ring-gai Chase National Park passed from being overseen by the Trust to NPWS.

The April 24 1967 WSC meeting recorded: CLERK'S/REPORT TO ORDINARY MEETING OF WARRINGAH SHIRE COUNCIL TO BE HELD ON 24TH APRIL, 1967, RESPECTING THE WARRINGAH BUSH FIRE COMMITTEE'S RECOMENDATIONS MADE AT ITS MEETING ON 18TH APRIL, 1967. The Warringah Bush Fire Committee meeting was attended by the Administrator, Mr. C.J. Barnett (Chairman), L. Rhodes (Group Captain), D. Stroud, D. Maher and P. West (Deputy Group Captains), M. Jenkins (Headquarters), C. Huntingdon (Beacon Hill), M. Reid (Belrose), R. Cleland (Coal and Candle Creek), J. Crouch (Cottage Point), K. Joiner (Duffy's Forest), K. Foulds (Forestville), G. James (Ingleside), G. MacLean (Scotland Island), B. Brown (Terrey Hills), J. Brass (Tumbledown Dick), W. Alldritt (Coasters Retreat), J. Erskine (Ku-ring-gai Chase Trust), L. Gill (Chief Clerk), IL Quinn (Fire Control Officer), T. Sweeney (Relieving Clerk). ITEM 1. CONFIRMATION OF MINUTES OF MEETING OF WARRINGAH BUSH FIRE COMMITTEE HELD ON 7TH MARCH, 1967. It was resolved that the minutes of the meeting held on 7th March, 1967, as duplicated and circulated, be taken as read and confirmed. ITEM APPRECIATION OF SERVICES RENDERED BY MR. L.M. RHODES. The Administrator welcomed the representatives in attendance, and assured them of his support for the voluntary bushfire brigade movement. He expressed his appreciation of the services rendered during the past twenty years by the retiring Group Captain, Mr. L. Rhodes, and Mrs. Rhodes. RECOMMENDATION: That the Warringah Bushfire Committee's recommendation be adopted, i.e. That an appreciation be recorded of the devoted services given by Mr. and Mrs. Rhodes in the prevention of bush fires; also that the Council arrange a Testimonial to honour Mr. L. M. Rhodes on his retirement as Group Captain of the Warringah Bush Fire Brigades. ITEM 3 - SELECTION OF GROUP CAPTAIN.' Nominations were received for Messrs. G. Harman, G. James, D. Maher, P. Moore and D. Stroud. A secret ballot was held, and Mr. D. Stroud was selected. RECOMMENDATION. That Mr. D. Stroud be appointed as the Group Captain for the year ending 30th April, 1968. ITEM 4 - SELECTION OF THREE DEPUTY GROUP CAPTAINS AND DETERMINATION OF SENIORITY. Nominations were received for Messrs. J. Crouch, D. Jackson, G. James, D. Maher, P. Moore and P. West. A secret ballot was held add selections were, in order of seniority - Messrs. D. Maher, P. West and P.-Moore. RECOMMENDATION. That Mr. D. Maher be appointed Senior Deputy Group Captain; Mr. P. West tier appointed No. 2 Deputy Group Captain and Mr. P. Moore be appointed No. 3 Deputy Group Captain for the year ending 30th April, 1968. ITEM 5 - TERREY HILLS FIRE SHED. A Sketch plan of the proposed fire shed was tabled. Estimated cost $9,250. RECOMMENDATION: That the recommendation of the Warringah Bushfire Committee be adopted, i.e. That' an amount of $9,250 be included in the estimates of probable expenditure from the Eastern and Central Divisions Bush Fire Fighting Fund for the construction of the Terrey Hills Fire Shed, including„ toilet and shower, as shown in sketch plan. No. BF1, as tabled; that the approval of the Department of Lands be sought for the erection of the building on Reserve No. 73335, and the Shire Engineer prepare plans and specifications, and that on receipt of approval from the Local Government and Lands Departments, the work be carried out by the Shire Engineer's Department. ITEM 6 - ESTIMATES OF EXPENDIIURE FROM THE EASTERN AND CENTRAL DIVISION BUSH FIRE FIGHTING FUND,FC;:. THE PERIOD 1.7.63 TO 30.6.68. RECOMMENDATION: That the Warringah Bushfire Committee's recommendation be adopted, i.e. That the estimated requirements as submitted to-the meeting, as amended by the deletion of one standpipe and the addition of one fire extinguisher auto C.T.C, be submitted to the Department of Local Government. … The Administrator Mr. C.J.Barnett (Chairman), D. Stroud (Croup Captain) P. West, P. Moore (Deputy Group Captains) B. White (Headquarters), C. Huntingdon (Beacon Hill), R.J.Healy (Belrose) J. Crouoh,(Cottage Point) K. Joiner (Duffy's Forest), K. Faulds (Forestville), G. James (Ingleside), B.E.Brown,(Terrey Hills), K.M.Watts (Tumbledown Dick), J. Alldritt (Coasters Retreat) A. Grosvenor (West Pittwater), J. Erskine (Ku-ring-gai Chase Trust), L.W.Oill (Chief Clerk), E.J.Quinn (Fire Control Officer), T. Sweeny(Relioving Clerk). 1.CONFIRMATION OF AINUTES OF MEETING HELD, 11.7.67. hold on It was resolved that the minutes of the meeting., 47 11th July, 1967 as duplicated and circulated, to be taken as read and confirmed. C.Huntingdon/P.Moore. 2.APOLOGIES: Apologies were receive? and accepted on behalf of J. Brass (Tumbledown Dick Brigade). 3.NATIONAL PARKS & WILDLIFE SERVICE. Letter 3.8.67 requesting the appointment of Mr. J. Hatfield, an employee of the Service, as a Deputy Captain of the Headquarters Brigade. Resolved to Recommend, That Messrs. Hatfield and Barnett be invited to become members of the Coal & Candle Bushfire Brigade and that subject to the recommendation of that Brigade, Mr. Hatfield be appointed a Deputy Captain and that he be invited to attend the next meeting of the Warringah Bushfire Committee. . 4; PRECIS OF CORRESPONDENCE RELATING TO THE APPOINTMENT OF REPRESENTATIVES OF VOLUNTEER BUSHFIRE BRIGADES TO THE N.S.W. BUSHFIRE COMMITTEE. Ref. Warringah Bushfire Committee 11.7.67, Min. 14. An attachment was presented to the meeting listing correspondence between the Council, Members of Parliament, State Government Departments and other Councils relating to this matter. Resolved to R000mmond, (a) That the Council submit a motion for inclusion on the agenda of the next Annual Conferences of the Local Government Association and the Shires Association requesting that the Bushfire Committee be reconstituted to include representatives of Volunteer Bushfire Brigades. (b) That the precis of correspondence be made available to the Chief Secretary and he be requested to reconsider the reconstitution of the Bushfire Committee by the inclusion of representatives of volunteer bushfire brigades, and it be suggested that the appointment to the Bushfire Committee of a full time-Fire Control Officer employed by a Council may been the best interest of the brigades, as he would 'be in direct contact with volunteer bushfire brigades and may be better able to express the viewpoints of those brigades. CONSIDERATION OF ITEMS BROUGHT FORWARD FROM MEETING OF CAPTAINS AT. TERREY HILLS ON15.8:67. -, (a) The dam on Rhoker Reserve, which was constructed as a Water filling point for bushfire brigades, is badly silted and the Council is requested to have this cleaned out Estimated pest $120.. , (b)Request the Council-to fill the potholes in the access road to the Headquarters

Government Printing Office 2 - 37100 - Ranger activities at Kuring-gai Chase National Park, including West Head [National Parks and Wildlife; Ku-ring-gai Chase National Park (N.S.W.); bush; roads & streets] [GPO original locations or series - St80061] [29-30/4/1969], Items: NRS-21689-2-GPO2_37099 and NRS-21689-2-GPO2_37106, courtesy NSW Records and Archives

Report to Warringah Bush Fire Committee 29th July 1981: Zlyg PAGE B.P. REF. 23 15 Report to Property Management Panel, and July. 1981 2.0 PROPERTY DzvtOP1 WI ;Attachment 2.1 ELVINA BAY BUSH FIRE BRIGADE STATION _PROPOSED BUILDING SITE LOT 13, D.P. 13449 WIRRINGULLA AVENUE, ELVINA BAY (Files SF520211.13 & BFI1) A report on this subject was considered by P.M.P. 3.4.1981 when the Panel's Decision was:;That the Fire Control Officer prepar, a further report outlining the overall plan for the Bush Fire Brigade operation as it relates to the Western Foreshore area and that this report be considered by the Panel at a future 'nesting, at which time an inspection of the site will be mace.*; A copy of the report referred to it attached. the West Pittwater area is made up of eight small pockets of residential development, containing quite a large number of homes with a mixed population consisting of retired persons, persons who work away from the area and occasional residents, i.e. weekend and holiday residents. the only permanent access available to the area is by water, using either a commuter ferry service or private vessels. Fire protection along the shoreline is. the ,responsibility of the West Pittwater Bush Fire Brigade. 3hould fire occur, it is most important that immediate local action is taken. Therefore it has been necessary to decentralise the brigade and this has been done as follows:(I) Brigade Headquarters stationed at Lovett Bay housing one tanker and other portable equipment. Land Rover for equipment and troup transportation is also kept in the Lovett Bay area, this is housed at various officers' hones from time to time, as permanent accommodation is not available. (2) One tanker obtained by the brigade at its own expense is kept in the Elvina Bay area and is parked on a member's property, as no brigade accommodation is available. (3)A small equipment shed is provided at Coasters Retreat and this houses a portable pump, McCloud tools and knapsack sprays. (4)Mackerel Beach also has a small equipment shed _with the came general equipment as Coasters Retreat. Because of the limited number of members available, it is usual that assistance from the southern end of the shoreline would be required for fires north' of Lovett Bay, this being the area of greatest available population. Such assistance must utilise water transport for personnel and equipment. As equipment must be loaded onto vessels, unloaded and carried to the scene of the fire, it is of the utmost importance that the movement can be made with speed. (contd) 15 PAGE Minutes Property Management Panel _Warringah Shire Council _2nd July, 1981

The Meeting held July 30 1981 records: Report to Warringah Bush Fire Committee, 29th July 1981 1 Attachment; 3) A small equipment shed is provided at Coasters Retreat and this houses a portable pump, McCloud tools and knapsack sprays. I.) Mackeral Beach also has a small equipment shed  - new shed proposed for Elvina bay:

Coasters residents have always taken the approach that they must 'do for themselves'. Long-term resident John Oliver recalled at the Celebration of the life of John 'Allships/Alshi*t Aldritt, another family that have been part of Coasters for a century this year, that John Alldritt followed in his father's footsteps in his approach to this :

John Oliver (Ollie) and Brian Friend (Friendly): 

Ollie: Before we start I’d like to state, as President of the Directors (of Palm Beach RSL/Club Palm Beach), there’s a few things we’ve got to clear up. He was a vey naughty boy here in the club some time ago, like we’ve all been naughty in this club, and he was banned. So, I’m unsure whether he should be in here. Although, it’s a bit hard to ask him to leave now. (laughter)

Friendly: well, you’re a Director aren’t you? We better settle it. Put your hands up if you want him to stay. Can Allshitt stay in the club?

(All present raise their hand – many ‘aye’s.)

Ollie: ok then. I’ve known John for about 45 years, and during that 45 years I’ve been 'doing it wrong' – for 45 years. 

But as Friendly no doubt is about to say, he had a heart of gold, would help anyone in trouble, on the bay, anywhere. You called him up, and he was there.

I have great memories of John and Pam and over the years we had great fun together. I found he was a very very knowledgeable man, bad seas, outboard motors – he knew them, he knew a lot.

He picked me up one day and we went over to The Basin and up into the bush and he took bark off this tree. I said ‘what are you going to do with his Allships?’ he said ‘I’m going to boil it up and put the fish net and all the ropes in it so they don’t rot.’

I mean, who would think of that – who would know that – you get this gum out of this bark, boil it up and use it to save the ropes and nets – they didn’t rot, so he knew what he was doing.

He was like a spare motor himself. When he went to sea, even though he’d go south when the wind was blowing south, he liked to really rough it, it would be like taking a spare outboard motor; he could fix anything, electrically, mechanically, he’d tie it up with a bit of string or wire, some gaffa tape, and he’d keep the thing going and off we’d go again – he was just fantastic. He reminded me of that John Williamson songline from ‘True Blue’;

Hey True Blue, can you bear the load

Will you tie it up with wire

Just to keep the show on the road

He was just one of those guys.

The problem is he’d leave it the way it was and he wouldn’t put it back to solvent until it shit itself again, and then he’d tie it up again – keep it running for ages.

I’ll hand over to you for a bit Brian.


Friendly: I sat down at Russell’s boatshed the other day and did a lot of writing and tried to put it into perspective as to what brother Allships was like, which is quite hard because if you don’t know him, you wouldn’t believe half the stories. Anyway I’ll start.

I first met John Alldritt in the 1970’s when I was working with Her Majesty’s Water Police, Broken Bay. In those days Pittwater was a peaceful place to enjoy boating. Quite often we went out on the launch and were told by our boss Buster Brown not to sit on our bums but to go forth and make acquaintances with the people who use this wonderful waterway. By this he meant boatsheds, Volunteer Rescue volunteers, skippers, The Basin Ranger, but that this did not include the Royal Prince Alfred Yacht Club, the Royal Motor Yacht Club or the Pittwater Aquatic Club, who were purveyors of alcohol. This soon went by the wayside and was a nice little break from our strenuous duties. 

When conditions became bleak, and storms would appear on the horizon, it became a fulltime job to attend and complete the cries for help as the Broken Bay area is four and a half ties the size of Sydney Harbour. This is when we found out who our friends in the professional Marine Rescue and among the local Mariner Base were. 

Welcome to the three musketeers of Pittwater; John Alldritt, Carl Gonsalves, R.I.P., and John Oliver. 

These three legends were like our right arm, and jumped into action whenever we needed a hand. Don McKay owned the Palm Beach Ferries but then he sold to Peter Verrills, and this became another string in our bow, so to speak. We also had Marina Base with Barry Kirkhin, with Derek Barnard, the VCP at Newport and the Coast Guard at Cottage Point. Ricky McBuhl and his men down there at the MSB and Lindsay Wellings and his crew at Palm Beach Marine. This is just to give you some idea as to how much we valued these wonderful people, and that man especially.

Personal description – this is the hardest part; rough as guts, went hard, very knowledgeable in everything that affects people and their welfare, and, a complete know-all.  

Did you know that John was part of the team that installed x-ray machines at the Royal North shore Hospital? This is part of the skills that the man maintained throughout his life. You can imagine him putting in x-ray machines and getting told by this bloke with no shoes that you’re doing it wrong.

Why did he turn from Electrical Engineer to Professional Fisherman? We don’t know -it’s got a lot of people stumped. But he did, and he made a living out of it. 

Home sweet home was Coasters’ Retreat, and the love of his life was his wife Pammy who presented him with Christopher and Rebecca, who are here today, mourning the loss of their father.  

To share some of the background, not all of it as we’d still be here next Friday, of some of his achievements and misadventures, the man himself was known as the Barefoot Legend of Pittwater. He’d give the shirt off his back, his right arm or last dollar to anyone. I was going to say last beer, but there were some things he would not part with.

He would go out in any conditions to help his fellow man and wouldn’t take any remuneration for it. He’d often say; ‘buy me a beer sometime’.

Water Police officers thought the world of John and knew whenever he turned up with his boat to assist in the rescue of a boat or a person that it would be his way, because he knew best. 

I recall one incident where a cruiser was on fire in The Basin. The fire was approaching a gas tank on the deck of the cruiser and John and Carl turned up, threw an anchor over the bow of the boat as it was burning through the mooring line, and towed it out of there. At that time the camping area was full, people everywhere, boats all around, if it had drifted inshore it would have set alight other boats. John and Carl towed it around to Currawong – I have a photo of a helicopter and the Valiant turning up to put it out.


There was another – a little yacht on fire near his home wharf, Bennett’s wharf. We were out in the Falcon, with a couple of guests on board, and we couldn’t get close enough to this yacht on the mooring. Next thing Allshitt turns up and says ‘I’ll fix it for you.’

He pulled out this thumping great axe and said ‘when it lifts up and down in the wash I’ll punch a hole in the base, it’ll sink down to the gunnels and put the fire out.’

His first hit was about this far from the top of the vessel, and then he hit below the water, and down she went.

John also rescued many vessels during the 1974 Sygna storm, just absolutely fantastic he was. Many a time you’d swear he was a copper because he was aboard one of our Police boats.

Ollie – you can help me with this one – the Yogi Bear sinking, November 1979.

Ollie: One night John called me up about 8 o’clock at night and said ‘Col hasn’t come back from fishing’. He normally did a shot out near Birchgrove Park but Col had a boat that was a prawn boat, not really a fish trawler, and there was a bit of a sou’easter blow on. Allships said, ‘we've got to go look for them’. He said, ‘throw your tin boat in’ – I had a 15-footer then with a 70’ on it - ‘we’ll go look for them’. 

We went out to where Birchgrove Park was, which was a wreck in 60-70 metres, and we stopped every half-mile with a spotlight and yelled out for them; ‘Col, Bob, where are you?’

It as getting more horrendous, the sea was getting up, we got right out to about 60 metres and we said ‘maybe they did a shot somewhere else – or what else could be going on?’.

We’d spent about three hours out there so we turned around to come back in a rising sea, and went down in a following sea and there we smelt diesel. We said ‘this is it’.

I turned the sounder on and we found it underwater, put a couple of markers on it  - the Police were up near Maitland Bay looking, so we called them up; no mobile phones then, radios only. They came up and got radar marks on it. The divers dived on it the next day.

Without John coming and saying ‘we’ve got to look for these guys’ we wouldn’t have gone out there – it was just so horrendous.

Then the whole of Pittwater got involved in it, Ollie diving, Pete Verrills and more – everyone got involved in getting this boat up from about 120 feet of water and getting it back in and fixed up to sell.

Johnny Alldritt was the man behind the whole thing; looking for it with me and then getting it back to the surface (for the family).

He was around for and up for everything.

Friendly: yes; I actually found one of the bodies over at Tallows’ Beach about a week later. Very sad. It was a real shame; something that shouldn’t have happened.

The bushfires of 1994 John (Ollie) – they came right through The Basin and we were evacuating people out of The Basin, Robbie Bullen was there, I jumped on the Caroline with Jimmy Goddard. I remember when it was coming right over the top of The Basin there was you and John and Carl and Putrid were lighting fires? I thought that was pretty stupid, but then you explained to me later on why you did….

Ollie: Carl Gonsalves, Tornado and myself joined Allships – it was pretty horrendous; the fire was coming down real quick and going to wipe all the houses at Coasters out. John said, it was his call, and it was a big call, he said ‘we’re going to backburn’.

''You and Carl race along and light the fires behind the houses''. I said; ‘wow, that’s a big call.’ Allships said; ‘yeah, we’re going to do it, it’s the only way to stop it’.

So I got behind the first house and the Firies had the hoses on on the bush, wetting it down. I’d given up smoking so I had no matches on me. I went up to the Firies and said ‘anyone got a match on them?’.

They thought I was pretty stupid.

Then when I got the matches I couldn’t light the fire because everything was too wet. I had to go further up into the bush and light the fire up the top.

To cut a long story short – this guy here, he instigated the whole thing, and I’ll tell you what, that was a BIG call and we saved every house. 

He was just an amazing guy, amazing.

Friendly: another thing a lot of people maybe don’t know; John was actually designated as a Deputy Sheriff. He was sworn in on a cruise ship going to Tasmania. I was one of the security blokes along with a good mate of ours from Scotland Island, Graham Botham, God rest his soul, would be my offsider as far as security was concerned. Boges did his back in halfway down there so we got Allships up and the girls made a little star for him; Beryl was on the trip, Pete was on the trip, Ollie was on the trip, the whole lot, and we signed him up as a Deputy Sheriff. 

Ollie: if I remember rightly, he turned into a Marshall. When we got to Melbourne he manned the gangplank and wouldn’t let anyone on or off – unbelievable. My sister, who lived in Melbourne, came up for a drink and we were on the back deck enjoying a chat and a drink. Allships came up and said ‘time to go’ – ‘off you go’ – we were halfway through our drinks, and here’s this Marshall, ordering them off.

Your dad, Beccy and Chris, was one hell of a bloke, one hell of a guy.

Friendly: also, if you needed any learning powers or whatever, the four o’clock log was another place John would dispense them.

The Four o’clock log was this little place over at The Basin, he formulated that club. All the people that owned boats, as well as the coppers, would meet there for a tipple and some wisdom.

He was also a Life Member of the Sand Crab Disco at Careel Bay Boatshed, with Jimmy Goddard. Many a good ‘dance’ held there.

He was also a lifelong supporter of supplying the Water Police with prawns for the annual Christmas party.

So quite a talented bloke when you think about it; what a waste; now he’s in a box going somewhere – no good.

Ollie: we’ll book one in for you Ted (Teddy Allen) – don’t worry. What are we going to do when Ted’s off Friendly – won’t be much money on the bar….

(laughter – Ted laughing too).

Ollie: the other night when we were all on the ferry you were saying they’re all leaving us and Pete Verrills turned around and said ‘I’m not going anywhere!’

The last 10 years I haven’t really called him ‘Allshitt’, I’ve called him ‘John’ or ‘Allships’ or ‘Ships’. I named him ‘Allshitt’ about 40 years ago – the reason I called him ‘Allshitt’ is it did rhyme with Alldritt but it relates to things happening on the bay. There’d be smoke coming up from somewhere, Scotland Island, or there’d be a helicopter landing somewhere and we didn’t know what was going on, there was no mobile phones or anything like that. And you’d see Allships walking down the wharf and I’d say to Carl –‘ I’m going to go and find out what’s going on because Johnny Alldritt’s over there and he knows all the shit that’s going on in the bay’.

So, from then on we called him ‘Allshits’, and he accepted that name, I think he even signed it on his licence .... and his will.

In closing – in the future years, down the track, we’re all going to think about him, talk about him, and really miss him. He has left a touch of himself in all of us – and I personally am really going to miss the guy.

Friendly: Thank you very much.

RIP Allships, you were one of a kind. - Brian Friend OAM


John Oliver and Brian Friend OAM


Verrills family, Peter and Ros, Mark and Kimberley (centre)

The Bairne Trail (9.6km) is a long (but easy) track along the ridge line, with great views over Pittwater. The track splits into two after 2.4km: the best view, across Pittwater to Scotland Island and beyond, is from the right-hand fork that goes to Towlers Lookout. The left-hand fork becomes the Soldiers Point Track. This firetrail continues to a lookout over Pittwater, from where a narrow walking trail descends to the small community of Coasters Retreat.

See: Bairne Walking Track - Ku-Ring-Gai Chase National Park - Photos By Kevin Murray and Joe Mills, September 2020

Bush Fire Council of New South Wales & NSW Rural Fire Service. (1978 - article from 2005 Vol 27 No3). COASTERS RETREAT – FIREFIGHTING WITH A VIEW, Bush fire bulletin Retrieved from http://nla.gov.au/nla.obj-292907076

However, fire boats are also employed should NSW RFS volunteers need to defend people and property at Coasters.

Heading into the Coasters Retreat fireground, Saturday July 8th 2023. Photo: Northern Beaches Rural Fire District

Coasters Retreat fireground, July 9, 2023. Photo: Northern Beaches Rural Fire District

Access Via Ferries

Coasters Retreat remains a mostly 'water-access' only place - unless you like a good hike in via the Bairne track. If you didn't own a boat or sail, this wasn't the place for you. However, since the 1860's steamers and then fossil fuel run ferries would bring 'excursionists' to Pittwater and then those who lived here but didn't have a boat needed transporting to and fro across the estuary. This became more prevalent during the holiday seasons and, with the formation of Ku-ring-gai Chase National Park, tourists who came to stay in the area.

The north end of Pittwater - The Basin and Coasters, along with the eastern side of the estuary, apart from the Broken Bay Customs Station one on Station Beach at Barrenjoey, didn't have access points via wharves or jetties other than private ones until land subdivisions began to occur - Palm Beach land sales to which people would be transport first occurred in January 1912, Great Mackerel in the 1920's. The Basin and Coasters Retreat by 1914 according to some records, and definitely on tourist maps by 1923.

Barrett’s Launch is coming into Palm Beach Wharf – likely to be about 1912. Photo: Goddard Family albums

 Observation Point, Palm Beach, Newport Digital Order Number: a106120 circa 1912, Broadhurst Image, courtesy State Library of NSW.



EB Studios (Sydney, N.S.W.). (circa 1917). Panorama of Palm Beach, Pittwater, New South Wales Retrieved from http://nla.gov.au/nla.obj-162376896 - Section from shows Albert Verrills home, structure beside it is original 'Barrenjoey House'. On the hill above them can be seen the The Maitland home, built by the Verrills - at base the road leading from Sandy point to Snapperman beach.

Although people could hire launches to ferry themselves - this also came with a few problems on occasion, as Artist Percy Norton Russell, the gentleman whose weekender is named as the first to be at Coasters, found out:

LAUNCH WRECK

SYDNEY, Wednesday.

In the District Court yesterday, Henry James Agar, of Newport, trading as 'Agar Bros.,' claimed £130 damages from Percy Norton Russell, of 14 O'Connell-street, Sydney, for alleged negligence. The case for the plaintiff was that he hired a motor launch to the defendant for the purpose of carrying goods from the wharf at Church Point, Pittwater, to a wharf at The Basin, Pittwater. The launch was wrecked, and he suffered loss and damage and the use of the vessel. His Honor gave a verdict for the defendant. LAUNCH WRECK (1922, December 20). The Newcastle Sun (NSW : 1918 - 1954), p. 5. Retrieved from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article163196540

However, then, as now, Pittwater was more connected to the Hawkesbury River and the Central Coast than anywhere south of these areas - and had been since the earliest days of European settlement in examples such as the First Lightkeeper of Barrenjoey Lighthouse, George Mulhull, or the mail run to Pittwater, which was carried up the estuary and to the Central Coast aboard the S.S. Florrie. Ferries that did a river run or one over to Patonga also included the main wharves as they were then, of Pittwater. Some residents even wanted this expanded - for example:

BROKEN BAY FERRY.

A suggestion for the opening of a motor car ferry service from Bayview, Pittwater, to Gosford, Brisbane' Water, is put forward by Mr. James Booth, of Mona Vale, in a letter to the 'S.M. Herald. ' 'A service of this sort to . link up the roads to Newcastle,' writes Mr. Booth, 'would be -quite practicable. 

The journey to Bayview by car is about an hour 's run, and the trip by water to Gosford — about 16 miles — would take, say, an hour and a half. This would land one at Gosford within three hours, the direct distance being 36 miles, while the present ; route along almost impassable roads is about 100 miles.' BROKEN BAY FERRY. (1925, August 6). The Gosford Times and Wyong District Advocate (NSW : 1906 - 1954), p. 16. Retrieved from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article166836133


The Phoenix pulling into Palm Beach wharf, pre 1931 - circa 1925, from John Cowper's family albums. The SS Phoenix used to call to wharves on the eastern side of the estuary: 

HAWKESBUBY-NEWPORT FERRY. Daily Excursions to Patonga Beach, Palm Beach and Newport. S.S. Phoenix leaves Hawkesbury Railway at 11 a.m. Special trips to Patonga, Thursday 4.30pm., 8.30 p.m., 10.15 p.m.: Good Friday, 9 a.m. 8 p.m.  A. J. SMITH. Advertising. (1925, April 9). The Sydney Morning Herald (NSW : 1842 - 1954), p. 1. Retrieved from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article16214103


Clareville wharf Pittwater near Avalon Beach - Small steam passenger vessel coming in - photo by Rex Hazlewood, circa 1921-1925 Image Courtesy The Mitchell Library, State Library of NSW, No.:c046220013h - S.S. Phoenix

And mishaps:

ASHORE
PITTWATER FERRY 
PASSENGERS RESCUED

Shortly after 3 o'clock this afternoon the ferry, Lady Alicia, running from Newport to Pittwater, ran aground on the rocks behind Scotland Island. There were only two passengers aboard and they were rescued in the speed launch The Soon after leaving Newport the engine broke down and the ferry, which Is about 200 feet long, drifted rapidly for nearly two miles before striking the rock. She is about 100 yards from shore and should be refloated at high tide to-night unless she has been holed. ASHORE (1931, January 24). The Sun (Sydney, NSW : 1910 - 1954), p. 6 (CRICKET STUMPS). Retrieved from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article224675997

Goddard family records state William Goddard commenced a regular ferry service to the western foreshores of Pittwater in 1932, running from Palm Beach to Coasters Retreat, The Basin, the Stiles’ Wharf at Little Mackerel Beach and Great Mackerel Beach Wharf.

There is also evidence in the council records of then that the Goddards were supplementing the use of their jetty at Snapperman beach when Palm Beach Ferry wharf was under repairs as well, in the 1920s.

Goddard’s Wharf pics (or Taylors Point wharf according to some for one directly above), January 1937. Goddard's Boatshed and wharf, at 118 Iluka Road, Palm Beach. 'December 1, 1937, or January 6, 1938'. photographed by Ray Olson - courtesy the Mitchell Library, State Library of NSW 

The Goddards were definitely transporting campers in 1950, as this report records:

 Across the blue water for a camping holiday: 1950


PACKING LINEN in the aluminium bath at home in Willoughby, Sydney, are Roy Dutch, his wife Olive, daughters Eileen and Lois. In adjoining room, packing cutlery and kitchen utensils, are daughters Mavis and Enid. Mrs. Dutch takes 10 pairs of sheets, washes a sheet a day during holiday.

LOADING UP THE TRAILER. Years of camping have taught the Dutch family discrimination in packing. They take only what is needed for comfort, leave behind non-essentials, which add to the burden of travelling and clutter up the camp. To pack and load the trailer takes more than two hours.

Camping these days does not mean roughing it, with ants in the jam and sour m i I h in the tea. modern campers take with them all kinds of amenities. Here is the holiday story of one of the thousands of IMAtralian families who camp at the seaside.

FREEDOM AHEAD. With luggage for their summer camping holiday piled on the cabin-top of the launch-ferry Rambler, the Dutch family and other holiday-makers wave good-bye to Palm Beach wharf as they set off across Pittwater for The Basin, on opposite shore, 20 miles from Sydney. The Basin is a favorite ground for hundreds of camping fans, and the Dutch family have spent holidays there for years. Ferry trip - only connection with mainland - is highlight of annual pilgrimage.

DOWN THE JETTY. Before casting-off children ride on rail-trolley at Palm Beach, where car, trailer are garaged.

WHEN THE TENT IS PITCHED, Enid, Mavis, and Eileen fill their palliasse with straw. They take pillows from home, sleep under six long blankets sewn together. The long bed, which stands firmly on pipe legs, is divided into six compartments for daughters. Palliasse hay is brought in bale from home.

FIRST SWIM. While Mr. and Mrs. Dutch, and married daughter Joan, rest on the grass after making camp, the five other Dutch daughters race off for a swim in the shark-proof pool, enclosed by steel mesh. Pool is shallow for many yards from the shore, is considered perfectly safe for children.  

Across the blue water for a camping holiday (1950, December 30). The Australian Women's Weekly (1933 - 1982), p. 12. Retrieved from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article47806278

Kincumber Orphanage Ferry, the Stella Maris, circa 1940s-50s - who also did the north end of Pittwater run. Photo Max Boorman, Boorman Family Albums

view over The Basin towards Coasters from on high, circa 1945-50 - not size of Norfolk Pines - Max Boorman's dad planted the Norfolk. Photo Max Boorman, Boorman Family Albums - Max recalled in his recent interview, Profile to run Spring 2026 in PON, ; ''All those pine trees that are along there now, we planted them. I planted a lot of them with my father. Every time these tides and storms were starting to scour the beach out, he'd cut the bottom branches off the pine trees and just throw them in.''

However, when the Port Jackson and Manly Steamship Company took over Goddards, and eventually moved the jetty around the corner to Sandy Point and what would become the Goldthorpe and Smith boatshed, they also commenced a ferry service using one of the ferries that still plies the Church Point Ferry Service routes when needed - the Elvina, ex-Falcon - as well as:

Two More Ferries For Pittwater

Two more motor ferries are being obtained by Port Jackson and Manly SS Co., Ltd., for its Pitt-water services, the general manager (Mr. C. E. Cameron) said today. The company had developed services from Church Point to Scotland Isle and around the Pittwater foreshores, and from Palm Beach to The Basin and Mackerel Beach. A diesel ferry to accommodate 100 passengers would be completed in a few days The second ferry, also with the same capacity, was a naval craft under conversion. Two More Ferries For Pittwater (1946, April 10). The Sun (Sydney, NSW : 1910 - 1954), p. 14 (LATE FINAL EXTRA). Retrieved from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article229471158

FERRY FOR BROKEN BAY; The Port, Jackson and. Manly Steam-ship Company announced yesterday that the Rover is expected to sail tomorrow from Circular Quay to begin a ferry-boat service at Broken Bay. The vessel will join the three other ferries operating in the Palm Beach, Hawkesbury River, and Pittwater-area. During the war the Rover was used as a patrol boat by the R.A.N. FERRY FOR BROKEN BAY. (1946, May 3). The Sydney Morning Herald (NSW : 1842 - 1954), p. 10. Retrieved from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article17992931 

ATTENTION Is invited to Notice in Government Gazette of 7th December 1934, calling for objections to application by the Port Jackson and Manly Steamship Co., Ltd., to reclaim and purchase about 32 perches of Crown land below the high-water mark of Pittwater, fronting Lots 3,4, and 5. of Section E. of the private township of Newport. Objections, accompanied by a deposit of £10. and lodged with the Metropolitan District Surveyor on or before the 4th January, 1935, will receive consideration. G. F. ALLMAN, Under secretary for Lands. Advertising. (1934, December 7). The Sydney Morning Herald(NSW : 1842 - 1954), p. 9. Retrieved from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article17142562

The Elvina, built by William Joseph Goddard at Palm Beach, is considered by many the original Pittwater ferry. Launched as the Falcon in 1928, this vessel was built as a motor launch for an A Sutton of Brooklyn. 

She was sold back to Mr Goddard in 1942, perhaps to add capital value to his own assets briefly as he then sold his business to the Port Jackson & Manly Steamship Company the same year, including the Falcon, his ferry business (to Western shores of Pittwater) and a general store that had liquor licence.  This company had begun purchasing land at Newport during 1933 in anticipation of a ferry boom or simply realising how many thousands travelled to and stayed in Pittwater. The Falcon was then one of four PJMSC ferries operated in Pittwater and her surrounds by 1946, the other two being the Currawong and Swanhilda.

The Elvina moored in Lovett Bay. Photo: AJG/PON

During World War II, like all vessels in Pittwater, she was put to war work moving troops to the gun emplacements on West Head as well as people around Pittwater. When peace resumed she was returned to the PJMSC and continued her Pittwater runs. By 1950 this company was experiencing financial difficulties and the Falcon, along with the Swanhilda and Currawong, were sold to sold to E.H. Caldwell of Church Point in December 1951 who renamed her ‘Elvina’ after beautiful Elvina Bay. This man appeared to have financial difficulties too as the company took back their fleet in 1952.

Verona Webster bought Lot 10 on April 11 1956 of the Alfred Edward Bennett subdivision at Coasters, registered in Vol-Fol: 7282-202 on May 3rd 1957. She sold to Colin Peter Buhl of Elvina Bay, Ferry Proprietor, and his wife Daphne Winifred Buhl, on April 26 1960, who onsells to Elizabeth Anne Craig Carson of Mona Vale, Company Director, on September 9 1966.

Colin Peter Buhl was born July 10 1923 at Redhaven private hospital, Alfred-street, North Sydney, to Mr. and Mrs. Peter Buhl. He enlisted to serve in WWII on 17 December 1941 as an 18 year old, listing his next of kin as Clarence Buhl. Last Rank: Lieutenant, Last Unit: HMAS Penguin (IV) 1939-1940/HMAS Brisbane 1940-1942/HMAS Moreton (I) 1942-June 29, 1949(Depot). He stayed in the Reserves until 1970: Appointment—Lieutenant Colin Peter Buhl, Royal Australian Naval Reserve, is appointed Lieutenant, with seniority in rank of 5th August, 1950, dated 21st September, 1956. NAVAL FORCES OF THE COMMONWEALTH. (1956, December 6). Commonwealth of Australia Gazette (National : 1901 - 1973), p. 3773. Retrieved from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article232989756

He and Daphne married in 1948:

Guests at the wedding of Daphne Cotterill and Lieut. Colin Buhl, RAN, at Chatswood South Methodist Church tonight, will include Lieut. -Commander and Mrs. H. Dwyer and Commander E. Kingsford-Smith.  Daphne is the youngest daughter of Mr. and Mrs. R. G. Cotterill, of Willoughby. Colin is the eldest son of Mr. and Mrs. C. H. Buhl, of Bellingen. see and hear (1948, February 6). The Sun (Sydney, NSW : 1910 - 1954), p. 11 (LATE FINAL EXTRA). Retrieved from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article229040842

The WSC meeting held on October 3, 1961 records: (AS) Ampol Petroleum Ltd., 28/9/61 ; re proposed fuel installation for Basin Mackerel Beach Ferry; advising further discussions with the Ferrymaster and committee members of the Broken Bay Game Fishing Club have resulted in the latter party's unwillingness to enter into a signed agreement regarding this installation but that Mr. Buhl is agreeable to having responsibility for both petrol and distillate and can arrange with the Game Fishing Club to draw supplies for their members. Adding-that after conferring with the Shire President: the proposed agreement (amended) is forwarded, for Council' .s approval. Note Council resolved 0/M. 18.9.61 F/0.26 ',That the Engineer's report be received and adopted and that (a) additions to jetty be approved, subject to approval of structural details by. Shire Engineer and work being effected without cost -to Council; (b) installation of petrol pump be approved; (c) erection of timber shed be refused as undesirable for the locality; (d) Agreement be entered into by applicants with. Council. Resolved; That this matter be referred to the Finance Committee and that a fun report be brought forward from either the Shire Engineer or the Shire Clerk in relation to the Agreement ' and the plans. (Crs. Wade/Bertram.)„

The Adjourned Ordinary Meeting, of March 9 1962 records:. BUSINESS WITHOUT NOTICE : INTRODUCED BY THE PRESIDENT. BASIN & MACKERAI BEACH FERRY SERVICE. The President announced that he had received a letter dated 7th March, 1962 from C.P. and D.W. Buhl, The Basin & Mackerel Beach Ferry Service, requesting that Council consider the granting of a franchise to operate from the Public Wharf at Pittwater Park, Palm Beach, such request having arisen out of the persistent habit of another ferry service outside the area picking up passengers from the public wharf and conveying them to the Basin picnic grounds at weekends and on public holidays. 37.Resolved; That this matter be referred to Council's solicitors for report re the granting of a licence.

Coasters resident Don MacKay then took over the Swanhilda for the northern end of the Pittwater estuary ferry runs, as well as using the ferry named 'Raluana'. He had been in business at Mona Vale:

NOTICE is hereby given that the partnership heretofore subsisting between the undersigned Donald Bowman Mackay and Jack Norman Dickens, carrying on business as motor car repairers at- 1623 Pittwater-road,' Mona Vale, as Mackay & Dickens, has been dissolved by mutual consent as from the expiration of the 30th June, 1956, and all debts due to and owing by the said late firm will be received and-paid by Donald Bowman Mackay, who will continue- to carry on the business under the firm name o£ Jock Mackay Motors, Pittwater-road, Mona Vale.—Dated this 2nd day of July, 1956 D. B. MACKAY. Witness,—H. F. Giblin, Solicitor; Sydney J. DICKENS. Witness,H. F. Giblin, —£1 2s. NOTICE is hereby given that the partnership heretofore (1956, July 6). Government Gazette of the State of New South Wales (Sydney, NSW : 1901 - 2001), p. 1933. Retrieved from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article220388085

The February 2 1970 WSC meeting records: Could an estimate for the installation of a light at Bennett’s Wharf, Coasters! Retreat, be requested from Mackellar County Council? Yes. 

Photo: RALUANA (1968). MV. Don McKay's ferry, Pittwater. Unique IDA-00081097 Series; Graeme Andrews Working Harbour Photograph Collection, Date Between 1st January 1973 and 31st December 1973, courtesy City of Sydney Council historic archives

Don Mackay's ferry SWANHILDA, ex ENA, in Coasters Retreat, Pittwater. Unique IDA-00079884 Series: Graeme Andrews Working Harbour Photograph Collection, Date Between 1st January 1970 and 31st December 1970, courtesy City of Sydney Council historic archives

At the Meeting held on February 19, 1973: BASIN-MACKERAL BEACH FERRY SERVICE. Letter, 5.2.1973, W.J. Hensley, stating the owner of the Ferry Service, Mr. McKay of Coaster's Retreat, advises he cannot continue the winter service as it is quite unprofitable. Before discussion on this item, the President announced that a phone call had been received from Dr. Hensley requesting that the Council agree to meeting the Progress Associations, and Mr. McKay, Ferry Operator, on Tuesday, 27.2.1973 at 7.30 p.m. 54. Resolved; That a meeting as arranged, be held on the 27.2.1973 in the Shire Hall, commencing at 7.30 p.m. comprising from the Council all interested Councillors. (Crs. Dawson/Creagh)

The January 21, 1974 meeting records: BASIN/MACKERAL BEACH FERRY SERVICE Letter, 20.12.1973, the Hon. M.A. Morris, M.L.A., Minister for Transport, referring to Councils letter of 10.12.1973; advising that the State Government reimburses private ferry operators for transport of pensioners and children travelling to and from school, however, it does not provide assistance in respect of general operations. Adding that if subsidies on general operations of privately-owned public transport systems were introduced, it could lead to very substantial expenditure and thereby reduce the funds available for other essential services. Because of serious budgetary problems the Government is, therefore, unable to embark on the provision of assistance in such a form at this stage. 66 ;Noted;. (Crs. Sainsbery/?ittle)

The November 25, 1974 WSC meeting records: Basin and Mackerel Beach Ferry Service Subsidy $2,112; 

The WSC Meeting of September 9 1974 records: Cr. Creagh 97. Could urgent attention be given to the pathway in front of properties at Coaster's Retreat as it is no longer passable in spots? I will ask the Engineer to look into it. 

The May 17 1976 WSC meeting records: Town Planner's Report 76/196 _Proposed Alterations and Additions _Camping/Picnic Area _The Basin/Coasters Retreat, Western Pittwater (contd) (a) (i) Standard conditions Al-A5; J1. (ii) A 15m. building line to mean highwater mark of Pittwater Foreshore. (iii) That National Parks & Wildlife Service submit to Council for approval additional drawings for the proposed information centre, shelter sheds, landscaping details and location of septic tanks and absorption trench for proposed development. (b) That the National Parks and Wildlife Service be requested to submit to Council a follow-up study of the proposal in the form of a Review of Environmental Factors as per Council's policy in respect of Environmental Statements adopted T.P.D.C. 17.12.1974 within 12 months of completion of the proposal. TOWN PLANNER'S REPORT 76 196 _PROPOSED ALTERATIONS AND ADDITIONS _APPLIC T-: NATIONAL PARK AND WILDLIFE SERVICE. 58; Resolved _That the recommendation of the Town Planner be adopted, viz: (a)-That the application for camping/picnic area at the Basin/Coasters Retreat be approved and the National Parks and Wildlife Service be requested to comply with the following; -

Donald Bowman MacKay, who passed away August 16 1979, Parents: Hugh Ross (born 1889 in Scotland-appointed a Policeman March 1st 1912 in NSW) and Ethel Freda (died January 15 1976), needed to rest. He got off the ferries and the Verrills family stepped up.

The WSC meeting held on July 19, 1976 records: THE BASIN & MACKERAL BEACH FERRY SERVICE Also: SHIRE CLERK'S REPORT NO. 218/76 (CONFIDENTIAL) (Copy supplied to each Councillor 12.Resolved _That this item be dealt with later in the evening in ;Committee of the Whole;. FERRY SERVICES _PITTWATER (See Minute 11) (a) THAT the recommendation of the Works Committee, 12.7.1976 Item 50 _be adopted with the addendum recommended by the Shire Clerk in his confidential report 216/76, viz: ;without reference back to the Council provided the complainants first make arrangements satisfactory to the President and Shire Clerk and Council's solicitors for payment of all costs associated with the proceedings;. THE BASIN & MACKERAL BEACH FERRY SERVICE (See Minute 12) (b) THAT the application by F.L. Verrills & Sons to conduct a new ferry service on Pittwater, be refused. 

However, that was soon rescinded - the people of Pittwater needed a ferry service and the Verrills family, as they have done so for generations, served the community first, last and always.

The WSC meeting held February 1st 1977 records: CONFIDENTIAL Report to: Property Staff 6 Industrial Committee Meeting _1/2/77 2.9 FERRY SERVICES (a PITTWATER _Proposed Discussions (File 28 Pursuant to Council's decision of 20/12/76, attempts were made to arrange for discussions to be held with representatives of Church Point Ferry Services Pty. Ltd. and Pittwater & Western Shores Co-op. Limited in conjunction with this meeting of the Committee. Unfortunately, due to the fact that the Works Committee's Meeting is also being held on this date (at.5.00 p.m.), it was not possible to settle upon a time which was convenient to all parties. It is now proposed that the discussions will be held at 5.30 p.m. on Tuesday. 22/2/77, in conjunction with the Committee's meeting on that date. On the same occasion (pursuant to the decision of Council on 29/11/76) it is also proposed to include in the discussions the decision of Council to grant permission to F.L. Verrills & Sons to use public wharves at Palm Beach, Careel Bay, Newport and the Basin as pick-up and set-down points. RECOMMENDATION: That the foregoing be noted. TRANSPORT SERVICES, TRAFFIC AND PARKING Due to the isolated location of Scotland Island and the western foreshore settlements, the provision of water transport services is a major consideration in their future development. This is necessarily linked to the availability of on-shore parking, and access to job opportunities in the Sydney Region. For Cottage Point, which is linked by road through Ku-ring-gai Chase, the consideration is the impact on the National Park likely to result from increased traffic generated by population growth. a) Commuter Power Boats: This fox, of transport is used primarily by residents of Scotland Island and the western foreshores, as Cottage Point is road-connected. Access to the north western foreshore settlements is primarily from Pittwater Park, Palm Beach. However, no commuter moorings wharf is provided here. Information suggests that the number of commuters from the Mackerel Beaches and Coasters Retreat is presently negligible, although this situation would clearly change with further development. The main present end potential problem area is Church Point, where residents of Scotland Island and the south western foreshore settlements connect to the transport system. Council provides a commuter moorings wharf at Church Point, and midday field counts in June 1976 and June 1977 indicated 71 and 92 craft respectively. The total capacity of the wharf was filled at the latter count, so the problem of providing adequate commuter mooring facilities would be substantial, on full development of the residential zones. b) Public Transport - Ferries: Pittwater is serviced by three ferry companies, two of which operate the sass route in the southern section. Both companies operate from Church Point, and serve four wharves on Scotland Island, than Towler's Bay, Hall's Wharf at Lovett Bay, Elvis. Bay, and back to Church Point. Each company has a similar timetable and operates alternately on the some route. Services are concentrated in the morning and afternoon peak periods, due to the number of commuters using the ferries. One company has three ferries of 130, 60 and 28 persons capacity, and the other 45, 45 and 20 persons and these provide ample capacity at the present time. Coasters Retreat, the Basin, and the Mackerel Beaches are served by ferries connecting to Pittwater Park, Palm Beach. This service is irregular, depending on the season and time of day. During winter, services are provided only every second day, and the operators claim that no commuters live permanently in the places served by their ferries. However, it can be expected that population growth in the north-western Pittwater locations will require ferry services of great.: frequency and reliability. The Services are, at this time, provided by private companies and in one case, a co-operative. In this sense, their cost is borne by the recipients, except for the terminal facilities provided by Council and hence the community. However, it is conceivable that massive population growth, the potential for which exists under the present zoning, would in the longer term result in the services having to be provided by a public authority, as has increasingly occurred on Sydney Harbour, due to the inability of private operators to provide adequate services at economic rates. This would bring the cost of the services on to the community as a whole. PAGE MINUTES - TOWN PLANNING & BUILDING CGIIy S Shire Clerk rman

Peter Verrills, who commenced the Palm Beach Ferry Service, which included reinstating the run to Patonga Pittwater and Central Coast residents had enjoyed in much earlier times, and had the Myra built in 1985, shared in his Profile of 2013:

And then you went on to the ferries in 1976. What was the first ferry you had?

I decided I’d get into ferries. I didn’t get the first ferry until 1976. In 1974 I went with a mate of mine called Billy Martin being an absolute hard basket over in the New Hebrides. He was in carting cargo and salvage of wrecks on Middleton reef. We salvaged the Runic, a couple of others off Middleton reef, a couple of Jap trawlers there; then a couple in New Caledonia and then I came back to do the ferries because I’d earned the money to do it. The first boat was one I named after my mother, it came from her mother’s family in Newcastle, from the Walters, the Stockton Ferries, I bought one of their boats. Up there she was called the Arthur G Walter; we brought her down here and rebuilt her and called her the Ellen Anne after mum.

The Goddards had a ferry service out here..

They were the originals. There was also Goldthorpe and Smith which became Palmarine.

So yours was a carrying forward of a local Palm Beach ferry service?

Yes, the water was always in my blood, I loved the water, loved boats. So I started Palm Beach Ferry Service; took over from Don MacKay.

Where were you running to?

When I first started the run was to Bobbin Head on a daily basis. I bought the Ellen Anne in '76. Later in '76 I bought the Merinda with the Basin-Mackeral Beach Ferry Service. So then I had two runs, which didn’t leave me with a back-up boat if something went wrong or if we had overloads anywhere. So I figured we needed three boats and of course it just kept growing from there; you had to get your contracts through the Department of Transport, as it was called then, in those days. Then it became the Department of Motor Transport now it’s the Roads and Transport.

How many ferries did you have over that time?

I had 19 ferries. There was Ellen Anne, second one was Merinda, third was Merinda II, 4 was the Hawkesbury, a Brooklyn boat, which I renamed Melissa after my daughter, then the Myra which was my mother in laws name, then we were starting to get everything else; I’d sold the Ellen Anne to build the Merinda II…and everything was starting with an ‘M’ and we didn’t realise it at the time, and ending with an ‘a’. so we kept that going for quite a while. After the Myra came the Mirrigini which was a local boat from here; Don Mackay was the previous owner, then the Mia, which was named after my dog; she was named Mia, she originally came from Brisbane River. She was a little cross river ferry up in Brisbane River and I used her as a backup for The Basin run. Mind you, as I was buying one I’d be selling one, so really we did increase in numbers but after we’d have three or four I’d sell a boat.

Friendly used to drive one; the Ellen Anne; she was a good boat to drive, like the Merinda. Merinda was a good boat to drive but a terrible boat for passengers; she was a well decker where you’ve got to walk down into them, and the Mia was a well decker too; they were the only two well deckers I had.

Photo: Pete with his old business shirt on

Friendly: Melissa II was a heap of junk; that was that twin screw single rudder…

Peter: Melissa II was great; it’s Melissa I you’re thinking of.

Friendly: Don Mackay was always on the southern end with the Marrigini and then we’d come in on the Melissa I from the northern end and it’d be blasting from the south, and as soon as you’d get your stop-go to bring her in the bow would just get blown away and you’d get blown towards Gonzales boatshed because this thing wouldn’t go backwards. You’d give if full stern and it’d still…so you’d have to come in at this angle, and I taught his young son, young Mark (Peter’s son) who was my deckhand at the time, I taught him to take a pylon with the deckline at 70 feet; I’d come at the wharf and he’d give it a hoy, get the pylon and and begin tying up!

Cowboys of Pittwater it sounds like!

Friendly; Geez they were good days.
Peter: Yep.
Tom Gilbert: Friendly certainly was.

Which was your favourite?

My favourite ever…the Myra, she’s still running. She’s just the most beautiful boat to handle. She did everything you asked her; it shouldn’t have been called ‘Myra’, it should have been named after a bloke because it behaved so perfectly.


Brian Friend OAM, Peter Verrills and Tom Gilbert (RIP) at Station Beach, Palm Beach - 2013


The Myra

in May 2013 at Palm Beach ferry wharf - Pete's ferries photos: AJG/PON

Friendly, Brian Friend, kindly provided a bit more about Palm Beach Ferries;

As his business flourished and he became more popular, in 1981, Peter bought his 3rd. ferry the HAWKESBURY which he renamed MELISSA after his daughter. This boat was a dog of a thing with twin propellers that, if you used them as a fan, they would not keep you cool on a hot day. Anyway Pete was on a roll and no one could stop this man who was on a mission. After consulting his mates (Martin, Dicko, Goddard etc) in 1983 he decided to actually build a new ferry to HIS specifications. 

Now according to Pete, if I can build a house, then there’s not much more needed to build a boat. Norman Wright & Sons of Queensland agreed to Peter’s demands and with a bit of changes here and there (they removed the ensuite and the sauna from the plans) they built the ferry MERINDA II for the Bobbin Head run and of course this vessel was and is still carrying out those duties.

A growing community

These following items form the minutes of Warringah Shire Council meetings serve to record the changes of the Coasters and north part of the Pittwater estuary community's changing needs.

The WSC February 21 1977 meeting minutes state: GARBAGE AND EFFLUENT/SULLAGE SERVICE _SUMMARY OF OPERATIONS (FILE 313) 1.1 GARBAGE SERVICE STATISTICS Figures for the three week period ending 12.2.77 recording complaints lodged with Council and services rendered in the respective zones. Contractors Zones Services Complaints Substan_Previou Rendered Received tiated 7-week Complaints period ,J.Johnstone P/Ltd. 1 & 2 35,718 6 2 9 B.Wall 3&4 32,088 1 1 5 K.R. & C. Edwards 5,6,7 & 8 88,474 32 22 37 0 V. Arrowamith 9 & 11 52,566 28 18 38 Forest Excavations 10 32,466 4 4 17 W.D.Health Services 12,13&14 62,712 35 21 57 Dawes Trade Waste 15,16&17 54,390 4 7 12 368,374 110 71 171 'Substantiated Complaints' include those which, upon investigation by either the Contractor or Council's Garbage Supervisor, indicate departure from contractual procedure by the Contractor and include damaged bins, missed services, half-emptied bins, spilled garbage, excessive noise. The annual 'Clean Up' for Coasters Retreat and Mackeral Beach in Pittwater was conducted over the long week-end and Tuesday, 29.147 to 1.2.77. Approximately 40 cubic yards of 'Clean Up' material was removed. RECOMMENDATION: That the information be noted,

In the records of the meeting held April 17 1977: PROJECTS PROPOSED FOR INCLUSION IN THE FUTURE WORKS LEDGER _NORTHERN DISTRICT - Progressive Provisional 9 Number Description of Project Estimate - 34 (File 446) Bennett's Wharf, Coasters Retreat: Installation of a second flight of steps at Bennett's Wharf, Coasters Retreat Note: The ferry moors across the existing flight of steps each night, so that the second flight of steps is requested by residents in case of emergency $5,300 

The August 22 1977 meeting records yet another request for these exact same works: PROJECTS PROPOSED FOR INCLUSION IN THE FUTURE WORKS LEDGER _NORTHERN DISTRICT -Progressive Provisional 9 Number Description of Project Estimate a 34 (File 446) at Bennett's Wharf, Coasters Retreat ; Installation of a second flight of steps at Bennett's Wharf, Coasters Retreat Note: The ferry moors across the existing flight of steps each night, so that the second flight of steps is requested by residents in case of emergency $5,300 35 

By the meeting held on 17th October, 1977 records works at Coasters and the miss-spelling of the name of Bennetts wharf - which seems to have become a permanent part of the council records: BUILDING & SERVICES. 1. CONSTRUCTION. Work is in progress on Nolan Reserve Kiosk, mobile caravans, new bus shelter for Mona Vale, Newport Beach Inspectors Roos, Harbord Beach Power Boatshed Extension, Bonnie Doon Wharf (steps), Bennet's Wharf (buffer pile) and demolition of derelict shed at Scotland Island.

The November 21st 1977 meeting records: RESERVE OFF BARRENJOEY ROAD, PALM BEACH _ACCESS TO PALM BEACH WHARF. (File 713/190) The Coasters Retreat Association have requested the provision of ‘No Parking’ notices at the Wharf entrance and that they be policed by Council. As an alternative to policing they ask if action would be taken on Statutory Declarations where breaches are observed. (Copy letter dated 23.9.77 attached)

A Report to a Special Meeting, 1st July 1986 records: 20- 4. COASTERS RETREAT PROGRESS ASSOCIATION (Pres) K. Jones There is a need for: a Floating pontoons positioned along West Pittwater to act as wharves for residents. b. Maintenance of public facilities (pathways to wharves, car parks, seating at wharves). c. Control of water pollution In Pittwater. 5. WEST PITTWATER ASSOCIATION (Sec) Mrs. Carol Marriott Represents approximately 170 families. Major Issues: a. Commuter wharf Church Point. b. Need to expand the Church Point car parking area. c. Acknowledgement of Church Point's focal role in the region. 6. BAYVIEW/CHURCH POINT PROGRESS ASSOCIATION (Pres) Robert Weilman Major issues: a. Lack of government environmental concerns. . b. SEPPS estates and State government policies are questionable. c. Local problems include: Water quality: McCarr's Creek and Mona Vale industrial area Brown's Bay - sediment build-up, erosion Congestion at Mitchell's Marina and the cargo wharf Church Point pressures from Scotland Island Car parking problems Public access to foreshore Bayview Baths mangroves area is dying Saturation situation of boat moorings Scenic road classifications and the issue of traffic congestion Medium density, townhouses, strata development; issue of public housing  

Report to Corporate Services, Finance and Personnel Committee Meeting, 24th April. 1990 _STORAGE S D PALM BE&CH WHARF 7.20 (File: 115/006/012 Part 2) BACKGROUND The Property Management Panel initially dealt with a submission on behalf of the Palm Beach Ferry Service to rebuild a shed for the storage of goods pending there delivery to residents of the western foreshores in 1984. Initially the proposed structure was to be located on the Palm Beach Public Wharf, 30m seaward of the adjoining public reserve and was to be 3.8m x 2.3m, constructed of weatherboard and metal deck roof to match the waiting shed. However the Town Planning Branch and the Metropolitan Lands Department when consulted in relation to the location of the shed on the wharf raised objections and the siting of the storage shed was altered to a position on , Crown Reserve No. 60988. It was intended that the funding for the wharf would be provided by the Ferry Service. The Metropolitan Lands Office advised that the siting of a storage shed on the Crown Reserve could not involve commercial utilisation of the shed , without there being a separate Licence Agreement in existence. The Lands Department advised that if the shed was to be located on the public wharf and used solely for the purpose of storage of goods pending distribution to the western shores then no separate permissive occupancy would be required as such a facility would be considered a component of the public wharf pursuant to Ordinance 35A to the Local Government Act. WLEP 1985 would prohibit the commercial utilisation of the shed on the reserve. The siting of the storage shed as consented to in Consent 88/7 is adjacent to the existing amenities building in Pittwater Park approximately Son from the wharf structure. That consent has now lapsed and the storage shed remains unconstructed. In 1987, in view of the derelict nature of the previous storage shed the Council hIred a ;wrecicair; shed to act as a temporary facility at a cost of $60 per month. 2. WESTERN FORESHORE Discussions have been held with various parties involved in the siting and provision of this facility. A representative of the western foreshores resident, Alderman K Jones, the President of Coasters Retreat Association is emphatic that the approved location of the storage facility adjacent to the amenities shed does not meet the demands of the users. He claims that there was no consultation with the western foreshores groups in relation to this location and that the only suitable location would be on the .wharf or adjacent to it. He claims that the facility must meet the convenience of the ferry service as without the involvement of the ferry service the storage facility will not function properly as it is the ferry service who provide the security for goods delivered to the shed as well as providing the subsequent delivery service to the western foreshores. Whilst acknowledging  Town Planning Branch advise that it would not support the location of a shed at the end of the existing wharf nor adjacent to it. They advise that notwithstanding the views of the ferry operator and Coasters Retreat Association concerning the location adjacent to the amenities block; the perceived difficulties which may be endured by locating the shed adjacent to the amenities block do not warrant its relocation either adjacent to the wharf or on the wharf. In summary the position therefore is:- 1.The current temporary arrangements for a storage shed are being funded - by Council at a monthly rental of $50 and has been ongoing since 1987 i.e. the continued hiring of the temporary structure is now excessive in relation to the cost of a permanent siting. 2.The users of the service and the provider of the service, the Palm Beach Ferry Service insist that the storage facility be replaced adjacent to or on Palm Beach Wharf. 3.Such a location is objected to by the Palm Beach Association and the Town Planning Branch who advise that the previously consented adjacent to the amenities building is the appropriate location. 4.The consented to location is satisfactory to the Metropolitan Lands Office as would a storage facility on the wharf itself subject to limitations as to any commercial utilisation of the facility. S. Previous consents have now lapsed and there remains no offer of funding from the ferry operator, the resident associations nor Council AWA in 1990s budget. The Property Branch is of the view that there is little point in the construction of a storage facility that does not meet the requirements of the user groups. The observations of spokesman for the western foreshore community as to the requirements, for security and storage in conjunction with the ferry service are logical and reasonable and in those circumstances it would appear that, if a storage facility is to be provided at Palm Beach Wharf then it should appropriately be located on the wharf of adjacent to it. The design of the shed could be sympathetic to the existing wharf and the dimensions of the shed would be kept to an absolute minimum to ensure that the visual impact of the structure is reduced as far as possible. There would be no intention to provide anything other than a storage facility for the receipt goods to the western foreshores and certainly no intention to provide an office or staff amenities room associated with the ferry service. Accordingly the view of the western foreshore representative is that the building need not exceed 2m x lni2.  If this option is acceptable then it would be proposed that an appropriate plan be prepared, referred to the western foreshore representative, the ferry operator and the Palm Beach Association for their comments as well as the Metropolitan Lands Office and that funding arrangements be discussed with the ferry operator and the western foreshore residents. If this option is not acceptable to the Property Management Panel then it would be recommended that the Council remove the temporary facility from Pittwater Park and advise the ferry operator, the Coasters Retreat Association and the Mackeral Beach Association that the Council does, not intend to provide a storage facility for goods awaiting transportation to the western foreshores at Palm Beach Public Wharf. RECOMMENDATION OF PROPERTY MANAGEMENT PANEL That subject to satisfactory design Council provide a suitable storage facility to be located on- the Palm Beach wharf as an extension to the existing waiting shed. !Item 7.20! COUNCIL DECISION That the storage shed be re-sited to the approved location adjacent to the amenities shed and not located on the Palm Beach Wharf, that a suitable design be developed and the project for a permanent structure proceed as soon as possible. . (Crs Dunn/F Beckman) N9I: Cr P Couvret was absent from the Chambers during consideration of and voting on this item.  

The Report to Corporate Services, Finance and Personnel Committee Meeting. 24th April, 1990 (Item cont) Town Planning Branch advise that it would not support the location of a shed at the end of the existing wharf nor adjacent to it. They advise that notwithstanding the views of the ferry operator and Coasters Retreat Association concerning the location adjacent to the amenities block, the perceived difficulties which may be endured by locating the shed adjacent to the amenities block do not warrant its relocation either adjacent to the wharf or on the wharf. In summary the position therefore is:_1.The current temporary arrangements for a storage shed are being funded by Council at a monthly rental of $60 and has been ongoing since 1987 i.e. the continued hiring of the temporary structure is now excessive in relation to the cost of a permanent siting. 2.The users of the service and the provider of the service, the Palm Beach Ferry Service insist that the storage facility be replaced adjacent to or on Palm Beach Wharf. 3.Such a location is objected to by the Palm Beach Association and the Town Planning Branch who advise that the previously consented adjacent to the amenities building is the appropriate location. 4.The consented to location is satisfactory to the Metropolitan Lands Office as would a storage facility on the wharf itself subject to limitations as to any commercial utilisation of the facility. 5.Previous consents have now lapsed and there remains no offer of funding from the ferry operator, the resident associations nor Council in 1990's budget. The :Property Branch is of the view that there is little point in the construction of a storage facility that does not meet the requirements of the user groups. The observations of spokesman for the western foreshore community as to the requirements for security and storage in conjunction with the ferry service are logical and reasonable and in those circumstances it would appear that, if a storage facility is to be provided at Palm Beach Wharf then it should appropriately be located' on the wharf or adjacent to it. The design of the shed could be sympathetic to the existing wharf and the dimensions of the shed would be kept to an absolute minimum to ensure that the visual impact of the structure is reduced as far as possible. There would be no intention to provide anything other than p a storage facility for the receipt goods to the western foreshores and certainly no intention to provide an office or staff amenities room associated with the ferry service. Accordingly the view of the western foreshore representative is that the building need not exceed 2m x 1m2

The October 30 1990 meeting the minutes record: On the 24th April 1990 the Council considered a report involving the current temporary shed and proposed new structure and resolved:_;That the storage shed be re-sited to the approved location adjacent to the amenities shed and not located on Palm Beach Wharf, that a suitable design be developed and the project for a permanent structure proceed as soon as possible;. That resolution was communicated to The Basin and Mackeral Beach Ferry Service and to the resident spokesperson being the Secretary of the Coasters Retreat Association. A copy of that earlier report and the Council's C resolution is appended hereto. As a result of that resolution A Riding Councillors were contacted by Western Foreshore representatives expressing concern at the Council's resolution by virtue of the unsatisfactory location proposed for the new storage shed. Attempts to convene a meeting to discuss the intent of the Council's resolution have proved unsuccessful and accordingly the matter is relisted for Council's consideration. 1.That Council resolve its preferred location for the permanent provision of a storage shed associated with Palm Beach Wharf and that funding for such a facility be included in the 1991 Building Improvements Program. 2.That in the event that that location as resolved by Council being unsatisfactory to the Western Foreshore's residents, they provide the ferry operator with seven days notice and rem present temporary shed and take no action to provide a storage association with Palm Beach Wharf. RECOMMENDED TO COUNCIL by General Manager/shire Clerk

Environmental Services and Town Planning Committee Meeting. 13th February 1990 (Item cont) 100. ;Bonnie Doon; wharf Below MHWM, south side of Coasters Retreat, adjoining Ku-ring-gai National Park

Warringah Shire Council April 9 1991 heritage listings: Bonnie Doon; wharf Below MHWM, south side of Coasters Retreat, adjoining Ku-ring-gal National Park

Status: Investigation and plan preparation to be carried out prior to liaison with N.S.W. Public Works. 0.51 -. COASTERS RETREAT – BONNIE DOON project; Provision of ramp from wharf to pathway to provide access for elderly 1fl1j5 1 - $0.00 Organisation/Club - $0.00 Deprt. of National Parks to be sought for permission to build and acceptance of final structure as their Jinient referred to in Item Shire Council 04/02/92

Warringah Shire Council also worked to apply more fairness in the care and maintenance of Pittwater wharves, reasoning that as visitors to Pittwater used these facilities the state government should also help with ensuring they were of a standards they should be. 

The February 21 1992 meeting records:  Report to Corporate Services. Finance & Personnel Committee Meeting, 03/03/92 C .43 - PITTWATER WHARVES - ASSET MANAGEMENT SURVEY. Project; Preparation of an asset management subsidy, waterways infrastructure development program (WIOP) in conjunction with the N.S.W. Public Works. Design; In-house and N.S.W. Public Works. Funding: Council - $0.00 Organisation/Grant - $0.00 Status: Application to be made to Public Works for joint funding. C.44 - PITTWATER WHARVES - 1992. Project; Repairs and maintenance to existing wharves - Eastern wharf, Church Point and Elvina Bay North. S mgi. Council - $0.00 organisation/Grant - $0.00 i Investigation and plan preparation to be carried out prior to liaison with N.S.W. Public Works. C.45 - COASTERS RETREAT - BONNIE BOON WHARF. Project. Provision of ramp from Bonnie Boon Wharf to pathway to provide access for elderly. r -house. F: .tcil - $0.00 Organisation/Grant - $0.00 C on3ent of National Parks to be sought for permission to design, build and acceptance of final structure as their property. This is the attachment referred to in - S

The March 26 1992 meeting also records: 01 9 15 Attachment; BP Ref t to Coastal Services 07/04/92 C.43 - COASTERS RETREAT - BONNIE DOON WHARF. P protect: Provision of ramp from Bonnie Doon Wharf to pathway to provide access for elderly. Design: In-house. Funding: Council - $0.00 Organisation/Grant - $0.00 Status' Consent of National Parks to be sought for permission to design, build and acceptance of final structure as their property.

As does the Warringah Shire Council meeting April 24 1992: 01:55 PM DI3 Page: 10 Report to Corporate Services. Finance & Personnel Committee Meeting. 38 05/05/9 2 C.37 - COASTERS RETREAT - BONNIE DOOR WHARF. P Project: Provision of ramp from Bonnie Doon Wharf to pathway to provide access for elderly. Design: In-house. Funding: Council - $0.00 Organisation/Grant - $0.00 Status: Consent of National Parks to be sought for permission to design, build and acceptance of final structure as their property. 

Pittwater Council was proclaimed and boundaries gazetted on October 25 1991. with the area proclaimed as the Municipality of Pittwater on 1 May 1992. 

The above Warringah Shire Council minutes from meetings, and a push back against the proclamation of Pittwater Council despite the boundaries having been gazetted the year before, persisted by Warringah Councillors, even into the first few years of that council. This created a bad culture between the two, according to those who worked to set up Pittwater Council in those early months, including alleged 'creative accounting' in the transfer of rates already collected and debts. 

Local Pittwater people were then employed to maintain and build or replace wharves as needed. The council also had developed Plans of Management for each - including those on the north-western side of Pittwater.

Pittwater Public Wharves Plan of Management, June 2008 
By Pittwater Council

The POM applies to ‘reserved’ Crown Land administered by the Department of Lands. To date Pittwater Council has been appointed Corporate Manager of seven (7) of a potential twenty eight (28) Public Wharf Reserve Trusts (refer listing). The Trust is charged with the care, control and management of the wharf reserves and Council manages the affairs of the Trust. The wharf reserves are designated for the public purpose of ‘Access’. 

Pittwater Public Wharf Reserves included in the POM are: 

  • Bells Wharf, Scotland Island (R1010808) 
  • Bennetts Wharf, Coasters Retreat (R1010809) 
  • Bonnie Doon Wharf, Coasters Retreat (R1010810) 
  • Cargo Wharf, Scotland Island (R1010811) 
  • Carols Wharf, Scotland Island (R1010812) 
  • Mackerel Beach Wharf, Great Mackerel Beach (R1004208) 
  • Tennis Court Wharf, Scotland Island (R1010813)

A summary of the capital works and indicative total cost at each Public Wharf reserve followed as: 

• Bells Wharf – extension of wharf head, provision of access ramp, pontoons, ‘ferry compatible’ pontoon and licensed boat tie-up spaces (approx 20-25): approx works cost $200,000 

• Bennetts Wharf – monitoring and replacement of White Ant infested timber, extension of wharf head (domestic waste storage area), pontoon and licensed boat tie-up spaces (approx 5-10): approx works cost $60,000 with allowance of $150,000 to White Ant infestation treatment 

• Bonnie Doon Wharf – investigation of ramp access at wharf entry, structural review of heritage stone groyne, provision of timber screen to domestic waste storage area, pontoon and licensed boat tie-up spaces (approx 5-8): approx works cost $50,000 with allowance of $40,000 to heritage stone groyne investigations and works 

• Cargo Wharf – construction of concrete access ramp, new timber jetty, ramp, pontoon and licensed boat tie-up spaces (approx 15-25) and ‘ferry compatible’ pontoon, picnic furniture / seating and non-powered watercraft storage: approx works cost $300,000 

• Carols Wharf – installation of signage, community notice boards, provision of access ramp and ‘ferry compatible’ pontoon, two (2) pontoons with licensed boat tie-up spaces (approx 50) and non-powered watercraft storage: approx works cost $210,000 

• Mackerel Beach Wharf – extension of wharf head with additional licensed boat tieup spaces, construction of domestic waste bin area (determined at the detailed design stage), roof extension between existing shelter sheds and non-powered watercraft storage: approx works cost $95,000 

• Tennis Court Wharf – provision of access ramp and ‘ferry compatible’ pontoon (dual function), pontoons with access ramp (south side of existing wharf) and licensed boat tie-up spaces (approx 40-45), and non-powered watercraft storage: approx works cost $450,000

Pittwater Council's POM described Coaster's retreat community and wharves as;

The small community of Coasters Retreat encompasses around fifty (50) houses with an average of eight (8) permanent residencies, the remainder holiday or weekend homes. The two public wharves, Bennetts Wharf and Bonnie Doon Wharf are located at either end of the residential block extent (refer relevant Chapters for further detail).

General public wharf use includes:

• public access to the regular Palm Beach Ferry Service;

• commuter boat tie-up (generally at Bonnie Doon Wharf);

• pick-up / drop-off facility – water taxis etc;

• domestic waste collection;

• general clean-up (household) collection (Bonnie Doon Wharf);

• mail collection from the post box;

• public notice board (information and social hub); and

• passive and active recreation.

The wharves are generally low use but essential public access and service facilities. Alternate access via private jetties is limited with a small number of timber structures adjoined to remnant stone groynes (of varying size and condition). The majority of residents tie their boats to the stone groyne structures or buoys.

Only five (5) boats where identified using the wharves to tie-up, two (2) at Bennets Wharf (utilising an existing pontoon tied to the wharf piers) and three (3) at Bonnie Doon. The numbers may fluctuate increasing at weekends and holiday periods.

Figure 9-2 ⏐ Bonnie Doon Wharf Reserve Survey Plan

Bonnie Doon Wharf is one of only two public wharves at Coasters Retreat. It generally serves the residents of the southern portion of this small community, with access via the Ku-ring-gai Chase National Park. The residential zone is set back from the shoreline approximately 30 metres within the National Park forming a buffer to properties. No surfaced roadway exists within the buffer zone only a connecting footpath along the full length with many informal access tracks.

Bonnie Doon Wharf is the subject of a Heritage Listing (refer 9.3). The wharf has been recognised as culturally significant, associated with early recreational and residential development of the area in the period 1880-1920. The wharf is also distinctive in the locality due to the regular inundation of the structure during ‘king’ high tides.

A description of the Reserve, wharf structure, related features and management is summarised in the table below.

Bonnie Doon Wharf Reserve Profile

Site name: Bonnie Doon Wharf Reserve

Address: Accessed from informal access track through Kuring-gai Chase National Park.

Reserve: Crown Reserve: Bonnie Doon Wharf Reserve

(R1010810), gazetted for Access on 13 May 2005, comprising Lot 7019

Ownership: State of New South Wales as Crown Land administered by Department of Lands under Crown Lands Act 1989

Management: Bonnie Doon Wharf (R1010810) Reserve Trust (appointed 13 May 2005) charged with care, control and management

Trust Manager: Pittwater Council manages the affairs of the Trust

Area: Approx. 1295 square metres

Existing Uses: Public access – general public, commercial ferries, water taxis and commuter boats, Passive & active recreation, Access Boat access from mainland, 

Stone steps with timber handrail to both sides which adjoins informal access track through National Park.

Zoning: Pittwater Local Environmental Plan 1993 7(a1) – Environmental Protection - Waterways

Schedule 9 – Heritage Item (“Bonnie Doon’ Wharf)

Adjacent Zoning: 6(a1) – Waterways Recreation

6(d) – National Park and State Recreation Area

6(a) – Existing Recreation ‘A’

2(a) – Residential ‘A’

Condition: Generally good, minor wear to access steps supports observed (Docker Smith Pty Ltd – 3rd April 2006). White ant damage noted in vicinity of shelter shed (timber replaced and ongoing inspection). Concrete surfacing with minor cracks at junction between stone groyne and timber jetty head. Displaced stone noted to base of groyne head.

Maintenance: Pittwater Council:

 - Timber repair

 - Graffiti removal and painting

- Domestic waste removal

 - General repairs to shelter / jetty head (works to stone groyne and internal hardwood piling subject to heritage approvals)

Assets: Approx. 35x3m wide heritage stone groyne (concrete surfaced) with 4.7 x 2.2m timber jetty – no railings. Fixed timber access steps to either side of jetty head, weatherboard shelter shed at entry (inc notice board, seating, post box), elevated rubbish bin platform (railings to three sides) to west side of shelter shed, solar lighting, signage.

Unattached Assets: Domestic waste ‘wheelie’ bins (number varies – mixed use)

Leases / Licences: None

Income: None

Caveats / Easements: n/a

A description of Bennetts Wharf from the same document shares:

Bennetts Wharf is one of only two public wharves at Coasters Retreat. It serves the residents of northern Coasters Retreat, with access via the Ku-ring-gai Chase National Park. The residential zone is set back from the shoreline approximately 30m within the National Park forming a buffer to properties. No surfaced roadway exists within the buffer zone only a connecting footpath along the full length with many informal access tracks.

A description of the Wharf Reserve, structure, related features and management is summarised in the table below.

Bennetts Wharf Reserve Profile

Site name: Bennetts Wharf Reserve

Address: Accessed from informal access track through Kuring-gai Chase National Park.

Reserve: Crown Reserve: Bennett’s Wharf Reserve (R1010809), gazetted for Access on 13 May 2005, comprising Lot 7020

Ownership: State of New South Wales as Crown Land administered by Department of Lands under Crown Lands Act 1989

Management: Bennetts Wharf (R1010809) Reserve Trust (appointed 13 May 2005) charged with care, control and management

Trust Manager: Pittwater Council manages the affairs of the Trust

Area: Approx. 1565 square metres

Existing Uses: Public access – general public, commercial ferries, water taxis and commuter boats Passive & active recreation, Access Boat access from mainland, Jetty adjoins informal access track through National Park.

Zoning: Pittwater Local Environmental Plan 1993

7(a1) – Environmental Protection - Waterways

Adjacent Zoning: 6(a1) – Waterways Recreation

6(d) – National Park and State Recreation Area

2(a) – Residential ‘A’

Condition: Wharf subject to infestation of white ants in joists, planks, toe rails and pile tops. Replacement of all parts recommended. (Docker Smith Pty Ltd – 3rd April 2006). Small section at shore end replaced, ongoing inspection and works.

Maintenance: Pittwater Council:

 - Timber / structural repair

 - Graffiti removal and painting

 - Domestic waste removal

 - General repairs to buildings, shelters

Assets: 32m timber jetty – railing to one side, timber jetty head (approx. 5x5m), fixed timber access steps, weatherboard shelter shed (inc notice board, post box, seating), lighting, signage 

Unattached Assets: Domestic waste ‘wheelie’ bins (approx 6-12no – dependent on seasonal use) chained to jetty handrail

Timber bench (resident owned)

Residents pointed out on a July 2026 run across the bay to update the photos for this history page that the surface of Bonnie doon's groyne has recently had its cement top redone.

Photos from 2012 on to July 2026:

Bonnie Doon wharf, Coasters Retreat May 15, 2014. Photos: A J Guesdon


Bennetts wharf, Coasters Retreat May 15, 2014. Photos: A J Guesdon

Bonnie Doon - Bennetts Wharf: July 2026

Bennetts wharf:

Bonnie Doon:

groyne causeway surface cement has been redone and shelter shed repainted

view east of Bonnie Doon wharf

view alongside of Bonnie Doon of Coasters Retreat shoreline

References - Extras

  1. TROVE - National Library of Australia
  2. National Archives of Australia
  3. National Museum of Australia
  4. NSW Records and Archives - as digitised by the Museums of History New South Wales
  5. Historical Land Records Viewer (HLRV) of NSW
  6. The Mitchell Library, State Library of Australia
  7. Warringah Shire Council Minutes of Meetings Archive
  8. NSW Planning Portal Spatial Viewer - Crown Lands Aerials
  9. NRS-13889-4-[2/5028]-O404 | Surveyor-General's Field Books - Larmer - Survey of Mullet, Breakfast, Dinner and Cockle Creeks. Ranges and Hills. Parish of Patonga. Farms in Parishes of Spencer, Cowan etc. North Head and Broken Bay County of Northumberland. Road from Burns Wharf to Milsons Point Parish of Willoughby. Farms - Great Sirius Cove. Parishes of Willoughby, Concord etc. County of Cumberland. year only 01-01-1833 to year only 31-12-1833
  10. 'Garrard, Jacob (1846-1931)', Australian Dictionary of Biography, National Centre of Biography, Australian National University, https://adb.anu.edu.au/biography/garrard-jacob-3595, published online 1 January 2006
  11. This plan may be cited as Pittwater Local Environmental Plan 1993. Pittwater Council. ENVIRONMENTAL PLANNING AND ASSESSMENT ACT 1979 (1994, February 4). Government Gazette of the State of New South Wales (Sydney, NSW : 1901 - 2001), p. 501. Retrieved from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article231929549
  12. Hon. James Joseph Macken (Jim) - Profile
  13. North Head Quarantine Station, Manly: Some history - Governor Ralph Darling saved Australians; saved Australia - Pittwater Online News 2020 Issue 443
  14. Sydney’s 1789 smallpox epidemic came from the First Fleet and killed up to 220,000 Indigenous Australians: new research - Pittwater Online News, July 2026
  15. Pittwater Roads II: Where The Streets Have Your Name - Coaster's Retreat and The Basin
  16. On The Verge Of The 2019-2020 Sailing Season - Historic Insights From The Australian National Maritime Museums 1890 Pitt Water 'Era' Yacht Collection - Pittwater Online News, Issue 419
  17. Marine Rescue Broken Bay Unit's Beginnings In The Volunteer Coastal Patrol -  Some RMYC BB Connections - Pittwater Online News, Issue 474
  18. Palm Beach Ferry Rides to the Western Shores of Pittwater on the Myra - 2014 - Pittwater Online News, Issue 163
  19. A Salty Tale of the Kathleen Gillett – A Small Reminder and Celebration of Our 70th Sydney to Hobart, 2014
  20. John L. Gordon (1927-2021) - Profile - took part in first Sydney to Hobart Yacht Race
  21. John William Pilbean Goffage MBE ''Chips Rafferty'' of Lovett Bay: Victory in the Pacific Day 2021
  22. Coasters Retreat, the small sailing community that helped launch the Sydney Hobart Yacht Race By Michael Troy, ABC News, December 25 2021
  23. The Myra + Merinda II: Pittwater Ferries of the Palm Beach Ferry Service  + A Few Other Verrills Ferries Of The 1980's to Early 2000's + Palm Beach Boatshed Insights - a chat with Chris Alldritt, Jayson McDonald, Russell Walton, Brian Friend, Peter Verrills - Pittwater Online News, Issue 596
  24. John 'Allships' Alldritt - The Barefoot Legend Of Pittwater - Pittwater Online News, 2021, Issue 515
  25. Carl Gow and Frank Gonsalves Boatshed, Palm Beach - Pittwater Online News
  26. Bill Goddard Shares Family Insights At Avalon Beach Historical Society's 2022 AGM - Pittwater Online News
  27. Goldthorpe & Smith Boatshed Becomes Port Jackson & Manly Steamship's Palm Beach Marine Service: Palm Beach Boatsheds - Pittwater Online News
  28. Snapperman Beach, Pittwater: 1790-2026 - Pittwater Online News
  29. The Basin, Pittwater: 1788-2026- Pittwater Online News
  30. Careel Bay Jetty-Wharf-Boatshed - Pittwater Online News
  31. Bairne Walking Track - Ku-Ring-Gai Chase National Park - Photos By Kevin Murray and Joe Mills, September 2020
  32. NSW Government - Historical, Aerial and Satellite Imagery
  33. Pittwater Summer Houses: Waiwera - Hopton Lodge, Bayview
  34. Australian Sailing's Barranjoey Pin Program Brings A “Change In The Wind”
  35. Stokes Point Careel Bay: The Shift From Warner's Hut In 1813 To Finisterre In 1924; 1934 Additions Probably Designed By Australia's First Female Architect, Beatrice (Bea) May Hutton - A Pittwater Rendezvous Site For Royal Sydney Yacht Squadron Members Is Still A Home With A View For Those With A Passion For Sailing  - Pittwater Online News
  36. Barrenjoey Boathouse In Governor Phillip Park  Part Of Our Community For 75 Years: Photos From The Collection Of Russell Walton, Son Of Victor Walton - Pittwater Online News
  37. Iluka Park, Woorak Park, Pittwater Park, Sand Point Reserve, Snapperman Beach Reserve - Palm Beach: Some History - Pittwater Online News
  38. MV Elvina (Falcon) - Church Point Ferry Service
  39. Palm Beach Sailing Club's Hosting of State and National Championships: 77 Years of 'mucking about in boats' - the VJ' State Championships of February 25 1956
  40. The Mulhalls Of Broken Bay and Barrenjoey: George Mulhall First Champion Of Australia In Rowing, First Light-Keeper At Barranjuey Headland - Commenced July 20 1868
  41. The Mail Route To Pittwater + Establishment Of Local Post Offices: Some History
  42. SS Florrie - early ferries of Pittwater series
  43. SS Phoenix - early ferries of Pittwater series
  44. Pittwater Roads II: Where the Streets Have Your Name - Whale Beach

Pittwater public wharves history series 2024-2025-2026:

Application For Permissive Occupancy Coasters Retreat Prog Association Ku-Ring-Gai Chase National Park. Contents Date Range: 22-04-1968 to 14-02-1983

Ku-Ring-Gai Chase National Park Acquisition of Lots 40 & 41 D.P. 21474 at Coaster's Retreat M.E. Turner. Contents Date Range: 30-10-1978 to 03-10-1979

Coasters - Bennet Land Sales

The residue came under Executors on March 15 1935 in Vol-Fol 4683-100, named as the Perpetual Trustee Company and Donald Macintyre of Chatswood, Gentleman, become the Proprietors .

Alfred Edward Bennett – Vol-Fol: 4683-100, Perpetual Trustee Limited and Donald MacIntyre of Chatswood, gentleman April 12 1935, by virtue of Certificate of Title Vol-Fol: 968-149, joint tenants of 59 acres and thirteen perches, being part of land originally granted to John Andrews by Crown Grant dated April 14 1842:

They sell to Alfred Edward Bennett of Vaucluse, Public Accountant, on February 10, 1942.

COASTER'S RETREAT ESTATE, Coaster’s Retreat, Pittwater, via Palm Beach, subdivision of land etc. Commenced 18/9/43. Prop Alfred E Bennett. Reg 30/7/46. (Vol. 76 No. 8 (August 23, 1946). REGISTERED FIRMS., Dun's gazette for New South Wales Retrieved  from http://nla.gov.au/nla.obj-795177033

February 10 1947 a lease of Lots 9 and 10 is granted to Charles Paul Royale of Balmoral, Engineering Student (an infant born March 27 1927).

On December 1st 1947 Alfred Edward Bennett transfers to George Burton Bennett of Darling Point, Industrial chemist, and Ruby Evelyn Goffin (nee Bennett 1913-1972), wife of George Robert Goffin of Brisbane, Engineer as joint tenants of part – Vol-Fol: 5838-21 – this comprises 53 acres, two roods and thirty-one perches.

They sell Lots 39 and 40 to Alice (Alison) Mary Northam – sale on June 28 1949 registered August 16 1949 Vol-Fol: not registered – however she is also registered as purchaser of Lot 41 on August 16 1949 which is in Vol-Fol: 6048-235, October 27 1949- note on sheet states CoT 20/7/49 F46733 Lots 39 & 40 F70036 Lot 41. 

Alison Mary Dwyer, née Walker, was the second wife of Sir William Herbert Northam (1905–1988), Olympic yachtsman, businessman and alderman, and a resident of Bayview. See: Pittwater Summer Houses: Waiwera - Hopton Lodge, Bayview and Australian Sailing's Barranjoey Pin Program Brings A “Change In The Wind”

David Jones buys Lot 38, March 1st 1949 also registered October 27 1949 in Vol-Fol: not noted in sale sheet

Lot 37 is sold to Jack Bennett on May 9 1950, Vol-Fol: 6155-227

Residue goes into Vol-Fol: 6865-84- now 49 acres, 1 rood and 39 perches – map shows are, exclusive of bits coloured yellow

Cumberland County Council resumes land -  in Vol-Fol: 7134-222, October 18 1954 – described September 19 1955 and officially registered July 12 1956 as 45 acres and 3 roods – which is transferred to the Crown (Her Most Gracious Majesty Queen Elizabeth the second) on May 23rd 1963:


Eric Charles Denny and his wife Josephine Ada Denny take Lot 3 on July 9 1956, not Vol-Fol on sale sheet

Allan Alexander Dunne and Marion Ruth Dunne buy Lot 9, again no Vol-Fol on sale sheet, other than officially registered on December 12 1956 after purchase/deposit of November 29 1956

Albert John Braine buys Lot 6 on April 11 1956, registered February 22 1957 but no Vol-Fol on sale sheet C of T

Arthur Maxwell Goldsmith buys Lots 11 and 12 on November 1 1955, registered in Vol-Fol: 7257-7

Verona Webster buys Lot 10 on April 11 1956, registered in Vol-Fol: 7282-202 on May 3rd 1957 – she sells to Peter Buhl of Elvina Bay, Ferry Proprietor, and his wife Daphne Winfired Buhl, on April 26 1960, who onsells to Elizabeth Anne Craig Carson of Mona Vale, Company Director, on September 9 1966

Lot 7 is sold to Sidney Albert Victor Darke, no Vol-Fol registered on sale sheet, just date of April 11 1956

Lot 4 is transferred to Sinclair Stapley Vol-Fol 7372-59 on July 15 1957

Lot 1 goes to Harold Edward Mann and Dorothy Auld Mann on August 19 1957 Vol-Fol: 7405-192

Lot 5 to Keith Raymond Harmer, November 22 1957 Vol-Fol: 7424-161

Last record sale is of Lot 8 to James Henry Coyle and Ruth Eileen Coyle on July 8 1959 – Vol-Fol: 7746-99

Of Albert Edward Bennett’s holding – sales recorded are:

Lot 14 is sold to Montrose Graham Ross, of Parramatta, Superintendent Vol-Fol: 5848-222 CofT registered July 13, 1948

Lot 17 sells to Henry Waterworth Bligh Livesay of Woollahra, Retired Naval Officer, CofT in Vol-Fol: 5848-242, also registered July 13 1948

Lots 3 and 4 sell to Selwyn Rivers Dickinson of The Basin, Pittwater, Manufacturers Agent, CofT in Vol-Fol: 5848-227 and measure 1 rood 28 ¾ perches;

Selwyn Rivers Dickinson (1892-1971) -  Born 1892 in Melbourne, South, Victoria, Australia Died 23 Aug 1971 at about age 79 in 'Newport – Coasters Retreat' and stated to be one of those behind original Sydney to Hobart Yacht Race

Lot 16 sells to Berle Blanche Brienesse CofT in Vol-Fol: not listed

Lot 15 sells to Rita Alice McGregor, wife of Leonard Percival McGregor of Naremburn, Dynamo Attendant, CofT in Vol-Fol: 5893-44 fronts 100ft Reserve at front of Coasters – this sells to George Piper of Lane Cove, Engineer February 24 1959 who sells to John Stephen Coolahan of Warrawee on December 21 1962

Lots 5, 6 and 7 sell on November 4 1948 to Sverre Almund Berg of Sydney, of Sydney, Ship Broker and Steamship Agent - CofT in Vol-Fol: not noted in sale register – he also buys Lot 1 same date with again the Vol-Fol not written on the sale form.

Sverre Oddmund Berg (1892–1979), was a prominent Norwegian-born (Trondheim, Sør-Trøndelag, Norway) ship broker and maritime manager who later operated out of Sydney, Australia. Born in Norway in 1892, Berg left his home country in 1913 to gain international shipping experience in Glasgow, Scotland, and Nantes, France. In 1916, he travelled across Russia and Siberia to reach Hong Kong. He spent 24 years there, establishing himself as a significant figure in East Asian maritime logistics. Berg became the General Manager of the Hong Kong branch of Thoresen & Co in 1920. In 1928, he struck out on his own, registering Berg & Co. Ltd in Hong Kong and establishing his own sole ship management operations. Alongside his ship brokerage business, he served as the Norwegian Consul in Hong Kong. During World War Two he joined the Hong Kong Volunteer Defence Corps, was wounded in action in 1941, and spent the remainder of the war as a Prisoner of War (POW). After the war, Berg relocated to Australia, basing his shipping activities in Sydney.  In Australia, he continued his work as a ship broker and vessel operator, famously operating the Hong Kong-built motor ship Kurimarau. His fascinating life across Norway, pre-war China, and Australia was documented by his son, Derek Berg, in a biography titled The Shipping Broker: From Norway to the Turmoil of Pre-War China. He had two children with Constance Mary Hendry, 1893–1929, including Derek Oliver Berge, 1926-2014, and a daughter who passed away when born. Constance died of cerebral malaria on 20 October 1929 and was interred in Hong Kong. He married Tui O’Kane  on 19 January 1931 at St. John's Cathedral, Hong Kong Island, Hong Kong and they had a child Margaret-Anne, 1932-2015.

Lots 11, 12 and 13 sell to Herbert Transmar Allan on January 18 1949, once again to vol-Fol recorded

Lots 1 and 2 sell to George Edward Tesq on January 17 1049, not Vol-Fol recorded once again

Lot 18 sells to Eric Robert Corben and Edith Corben on March 15 1949 – no Vol-Fol record

Lot 22 sells to William Albert Willes on on April 6 1949 – no Vol-Fol record

Lot 19 to Violet Mitchell on August 24 1949 with Cof T registered in Vol- Fol: 6040-165

Lot 20 is sold to William Bell on August 24 1949 with Cof T registered in Vol- Fol: 6016-223

Lot 21 to Patrick Joseph Pyne on August 5 1949, registered September 12 1949 in Vol-Fol: 6026-35

Lots 9 and 10 to John MacDiarmid Royle of Balmoral, Engineer on May 19 1949, registered October 14 – Vol-Fol: 6079-96. John Stephen Coolhan of Seaforth, and Kathleen Agnes Coolahan become owners/joint tenants of March 21 1967

Lot 23 goes to John James Thompson on December 22 1949, registered January 26 1950 in Vol-Fol: 6089-152

Alfred Edward Bennett (1889–1963)

Birth: 26 September, 1889, Balwyn, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia

Death: 17 April, 1963 (aged 73), Vaucluse, Sydney, New South Wales,

Religious Influence: Theosophist

Occupation or Descriptor: accountant, child welfare reformer, company managing director, political activist, radio station manager

Alfred Edward Bennett (1889-1963), broadcasting executive, was born on 26 September 1889 at Balwyn, Victoria, son of George Jesse Bennett, schoolmaster, and his second wife Harriet Ann, née Bentley. He was educated at Balwyn State School and at Hawthorn College and had become secretary of the Freezing Co. Ltd at Murtoa, when he married Ruby Adelaide Frauenfelder at St James's Old Cathedral, Melbourne, on 11 June 1912. Next year he moved to Shepparton as secretary of the Goulburn Valley Industries Co. Ltd, and about 1919 he went to Western Australia to manage a meatworks at Carnarvon.

In 1922 Bennett began business in Sydney as a public accountant. In 1926 he was appointed manager of the Theosophical Society in Australia's commercial radio station 2GB, which began broadcasting on 23 August. A Theosophist himself from 1920, he reassured doubters that 'we have no axe to grind … we have no right to use wireless unless we utilise it for the Nation's uplift and progress'. Although a tire in show business, he shrewdly assessed public taste, enlisted popular talent from other stations and gave unknown performers a chance. Among those he promoted were Eric, brother of Hollywood actor Ronald Colman, 'Uncle' George Saunders, 'Bimbo' Arthur Hahn, Jack Davey and Charles Cousens.

On Armistice Day 1929, with G. S. Arundale Bennett founded the Who's for Australia? League and became its first president until 1931 when his elder brother Brigadier General Gordon Bennett, president of the Chamber of Manufactures of New South Wales, took over. A. E. Bennett placed his faith in 'the discovery of a “strong man”' to lead Australia, and openly admired Mussolini. In March 1931 he became a vice-president of the All for Australia League and later that year, as a United Australia Party candidate, was defeated for the House of Representatives seat of Lang.

Bennett visited the United States of America in 1933-34 and in 1935. He obtained exclusive Australian rights to World Broadcasting Wide Range recordings, introduced radio transcriptions, and helped to found an Australian industry to produce radio programmes locally; he also set up American Radio Transcription Agencies (later Artransa). In 1934-36, as president of the Australian Federation of Commercial Broadcasting stations, he strongly urged them to defend themselves from government encroachment; he demanded equal status with the Australian Broadcasting Commission, which, he argued, should 'cultivate a civic consciousness—a national sentiment—inculcate a high appreciation of music in Australian homes'. He was also a director of radio stations 3AW Melbourne and 5DN Adelaide.

In 1935 Bennett, feeling threatened by differences among local Theosophists, was appointed managing director of the Theosophical Broadcasting Station Ltd for seven years 'with extraordinarily full powers'. When next year 2GB combined with 2UE, he became managing director of the Broadcasting Service Association Ltd formed to run the two stations and soon sold his shares in the company. Asked to resign in 1937, next year he successfully sued the association for the agreed compensation, and in 1947, with (Sir) Garfield Barwick as counsel, he won a High Court appeal against the commissioner of taxation, maintaining that the compensation was a capital payment.

After Bennett retired he devoted himself to welfare work among children and old men, and became general secretary of the Australian Child Welfare Association. Survived by his wife, son and daughter, he died of coronary vascular disease at the wheel of his car outside his home at Vaucluse on 17 April 1963, and was cremated. His estate was valued for probate at £21,085.

Philip Geeves, 'Bennett, Alfred Edward (1889–1963)', Australian Dictionary of Biography, National Centre of Biography, Australian National University, https://adb.anu.edu.au/biography/bennett-alfred-edward-5207/text8763, published first in hardcopy 1979 

Smallpox impact on Pittwater's First Nation peoples- Bradley's Journal

During 1789 a major epidemic raged in Sydney. Journals from the year prior to suggest that it was either smallpox or chickenpox, probably smallpox, which was present in some of those coming into contact with our indigenous peoples. In William Bradley's Journal 'A Voyage to New South Wales - 1786-1792', he records his Exploration Of Broken Bay, Pitt Water and the Hawkesbury' of March 1789 and in May of 1789, near Manly and on the harbour;

9 May 1789

9th. Falling to leeward of the North Head we made a trip with success and at 3 passed between the Heads. At 6, anchored in Sydney Cove where we found the Supply.

We found that a native man had been taken by force by Lieutenant Ball, commander of the Supply, for the Governor, it not being possible to persuade any of them to come amongst us. He was for some time kept with an iron about his leg and, when on board the Supply going down the harbour, he jumped overboard, but was taken up and prevented from joining his countrymen and old companions who were near. He was so well reconciled to his situation when we arrived that he was allowed to walk about by himself. His irons were taken off.

[Page 162]

When an old man and his child were brought up to Sydney Cove with the small pox out on them, soon after this old man, another native man was found in the same situation, with a child laying by him, both of which were brought up to the hospital. The native at the Governor's (Arrabanoo) met them without fear of the disorder, by which it was then supposed that he was ignorant of that disorder, or that he had had it and was recovered. The two men died before we arrived, but the children were then on the recovery.

From the great number of dead natives found in every part of the harbour, it appears that the small pox had made dreadful havoc among them. We did not see a canoe or a native the whole way coming up the harbour and were told that scarce any had been seen lately except laying dead in and about their miserable habitations, whence it appears that they are deserted by their companions as soon as the disorder comes out on them, and those who are attacked with this disorder left to shift for themselves. We judge this from their having been found not buried, in every part of the harbour. Some have been found with a child laying dead close to them and some, who have apparently used their utmost exertions to get at water, having been found laying dead between a cave and a run of water.

And from later that same year:
[Page 165]

17 June 1789

Wednesday, 17th. The Governor and party returned from Broken Bay. In the branch running to the NW out of the SW arm they discovered that an opening round an island, which had not been examined before, led to a fresh water river up which they went about twenty miles from the island at the mouth of it, when they were obliged to return for want of provisions to enable them to proceed.

When they gave up their pursuit they had 6 fathomss water and made use of it both for drinking and cooking. They met with but few natives and found some that died of the small pox laying near the path between Port Jackson and Broken Bay.

In a Cove of the southern arm they met with a woman who had just recovered but was so reduced and weak that she could not accompany her companion who ran away on the boat coming in near where they were. This poor creature crawled in among the long grass to hide herself and was by chance found in that situation. After having received every relief that could be given her, she became familiar as her fears subsided, but was not to be found when the boats came away. By Captain Hunter's Observation, taken near the inner South Head of Broken Bay, it appears to be 15 miles to the northward of Port Jackson.


Adams, Michael. (1793). Captains Hunter, Collins & Johnston with Governor Phillip, Surgeon White &c. visiting a distressed female native of New South Wales at a hut near Port Jackson Retrieved from http://nla.gov.au/nla.obj-135775134 

Pittwater Cemetery at The Basin/Coasters - Per Jim Macken: Potential Internees

There are also reports of people passing away in the area and some stones in the area bear carved memorials of sailors who have been interred.

An open boat was on Friday se'nnight lost in a heavy squall off Barenjoy, and two men that were on board her, out of four, unfortunately perished. They went out of the Cove that morning for Broken Bay, the weather at the time of their departure very boisterous. In clearing the South Head she was repeatedly in danger of filling by the heavy surfs that beat in upon the rocks ; the violence of the weather increasing, the people now too late repented their rashness and imprudence in attempting the passage under such forbidding circumstances. When off Barenjoy, at nearly a mile and a half from the shore, their danger soon visibly increased, the surfs succeeded with such rapidity and force as to render every skill and exertion necessary to their immediate safety ; but alas ! their adverse destiny was unavoidable -- three heavy waves at once curling on the little wretched bark, filled her in an instant ; the next succeeding wave washed off three of the people, two of whom viz. James Partridge and J. Sampson, never reached the shore ; the third by swimming happily saved his life; & the other, who clung to the boat, which tho' full had not gone down, but had drifted towards the beach, when within 40 yards of which, was miraculously thrown up by a surf, which upon its reflux left him in safety on the shore. SYDNEY. (1803, December 4). The Sydney Gazette and New South Wales Advertiser (NSW : 1803 - 1842), p. 2. Retrieved from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article625905 

On Thursday sailed the Marcia and Surprise for Bas's Straits; but the latter returned the day following into Broken Bay, having met with a very heavy gale shortly after she went out, in which her sails were sent to pieces. She is intended to sail again this day.
Came in on Friday the Bee Colonial vessel with lime from Broken Bay, to sail again this morning. PORT NEWS. (1803, December 18). The Sydney Gazette and New South Wales Advertiser (NSW : 1803 - 1842), p. 4. Retrieved from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article625932 

BOATS - On Monday sailed the James, Raby, for Broken Bay, and came in again on Friday with a freight of lime. And on Thursday arrived the Nancy, A Thompson owner, and the William from Hawkesbury, with wheat. The Nancy sailed from hence for Hunter's River on the 21st of October; took on board 40 logs of very fine Cedar, mostly measuring 20 feet and upwards, and squaring more than 3 feet; and arrived at Hawkesbury with the freight the 1st of the present month. SHIP NEWS. (1803, December 25). The Sydney Gazette and New South Wales Advertiser (NSW : 1803 - 1842), p. 4. Retrieved from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article625948 

Another handsome Sloop built by Mr. A. Thompson, was on Thursday launched from the Green Hills; her keel was laid by Mr. Kelly, now master of the Nancy, her bur-then is computed at 30 tons, and in compliment to the spot of her nativity, she has received the name of the Hawkesbury.
Highly to the credit of Captain Balch, Commander of the American ship Mary, and no doubt in consideration of the polite attention he experienced during his stay here, upon discovery of a woman that had been secreted, when at a considerable distance at sea, put his vessel back into Broken Bay, and there landed not only the woman, but two of his ship's Company also, who had been accessory to her concealment. By such a conduct has Capt. Balch shown himself worthy the liberal reception he met with, and has given a wholesome lesson to those, who losing sight of the fair prospect which a reformed conduct invariably presents, are induced to have recourse to stratagem however impracticable, and to sacrifice their immediate comfort to an illusive shadow, which only realizes accumulated hardships, the certain and necessary consequences of disappointment. Bench of Magistrates. (1804, February 19). The Sydney Gazette and New South Wales Advertiser (NSW : 1803 - 1842), p. 4. Retrieved from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article626050 

The people belonging to the 'Improvement', late from Hunter's River, report their having been surprised with the appearance of a white man upon Ash Island, which lies in that River, and who, when first discerned, was in the act of charging a musquet. They repeatedly called to him, but received no answer, and appeared to be wholly disregarded, as he walked gently into the brush and was no more seen. Any attempt to pursue him must have proved abortive, owing to the surrounding flat being at that time impassable, as it was low water. - Three men some weeks since took away a boat belonging to Serjeant Day, which one of them, viz. William Johnson, had previously hired for a whole week, on pretence of emergent business at Parramatta, which required that he should take a boat up, but has been missing ever since. The day after they left Sydney an account was brought in by several of the Broken-Bay Natives that three men in a boat, answering the description, had been seen by them making after one of the late American Ships, but having no prospect that could encourage the continuance of their course, they had at length put back, and took shelter that night among them; and the next morning taking again to their boat, shaped their course for the Northward. Other Natives have since described the boat, but added that there were then only two men with her, the loss of the third is therefore the only inference, and that they were in extreme dis-tress.— The appearance of a man upon Ash Island may be hence accounted for; and, if the reports of the Natives, which tallied with tolerable exactness, can be considered as credible information, he may possibly be the only survivor, unless a second were concealed in the brush. As men thus reduced to the most deplorable but desperate circumstances imaginable by their own folly and impetuosity may be capable of attempting the execution of the wildest projects, it is the duty and interest of those who traverse the Coast to be perpetually watchful against surprise, or any wicked effort of people thus unhappily situated, and to provide for their own future safety by endeavouring to secure such offenders. SYDNEY. (1804, March 4). The Sydney Gazette and New South Wales Advertiser (NSW : 1803 - 1842), p. 3. Retrieved from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article626066 

The Keel of a new Vessel was last week laid by Messrs Kable and Underwood, opposite to the yard of the latter, all the planks of which are to be cedar, and her dimensions not under those of the Governor King.
Two handsome Sloops both built at Hawkesbury, lately came into the cove for the first time, one of which we before mentioned to be built by Mr. A. Thompson, named the Hawkesbury, conveniently carries from 7 to 800 bushels ; and the other called the Speedy about 500 bushels. Both these little performances, and that of the Nancy, will doubtless operate as a spur to emulation and industry, which are the founders of opulence, and the certain tread to happiness and social independence.
Seven insurgent fugitives lately apprehended by the Settlers and other loyal inhabitants of Hawkesbury, were part of a body fifteen in number, who, mostly armed, had taken refuge at the foot of the Mountains, but were then on the maraud about the exterior limits of the Settlement. Of the seven made prisoners one was induced by remorse and dread of impending punishment, to inform the captors where they had deposited their arms in concealment ; but whether this confession was sincere or not could not be ascertained, as none were found, and must consequently have been removed if ever lodged there. Hughes, who has in so many instances shown himself an abandoned and profligate offender, and against whom a writ of Out-lawry was some time since issued, is we understand, among the above number not yet apprehended, whose intent it was to cross the foot of the mountains for Broken Bay, there to seize upon the first boat that presented itself ; and without loss of time commit themselves to the perils of the sea. Several Natives have since confirmed the account given by these people, by declaring that they were actually on their travel towards Broken Bay, where it may be anxiously hoped their infamous and desperate design will be disappointed by the caution and vigilance of the Boatmen, whose safety is thus daringly menaced. SYDNEY. (1804, April 1). The Sydney Gazette and New South Wales Advertiser (NSW : 1803 - 1842), p. 2. Retrieved fromhttp://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article626111 

We are at the same time extremely concerned to state the Loss of the James, belonging to Mr. Thomas Raby, on Wednesday evening last near Broken Bay, the crew, five in  number, all saved. She sailed from Newcastle on Monday morning very leaky, and  shortly after her departure encountered a gale of wind, during which the water gained fast upon her; and the contrary wind continuing, baffled every exertion, and kept the pumps constantly at work. On Wednesday morning both pumps were choaked, the sea running very high, and the people were obliged to bale with buckets ; but at length, losing all hopes of bringing the vessel in, stood on to a sand-beach, nearly full, where she was soon after dashed to pieces by a tremendous surf. The people were picked up on Thursday by the Resource, at the North Head, and brought in. The James was also freighted in coals and cedar, the latter of which may possibly be recovered, with her anchor and part of her rigging.SHIP NEWS. (1804, April 29). The Sydney Gazette and New South Wales Advertiser (NSW : 1803 - 1842), p. 4. Retrieved fromhttp://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article626170 

On Tuesday appeared in sight the ship Alexander, Captain RHODES; but unable to make the Port owing to contrary wind, brought up in Broken Bay, from whence she may be expected round as soon as the wind permits. Ship News. (1804, May 20). The Sydney Gazette and New South Wales Advertiser (NSW : 1803 - 1842), p. 2. Retrieved from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article626207 

Thos. Desmond, a prisoner who has a third time effected a temporary escape from the settlement at King's Town, was last week apprehended at Broken Bay by the people belonging to the Hawkesbury, and sent in initially to Parramatta ; and from thence committed to the county gaol, to be returned to Newcastle by the Resource.  SYDNEY. (1805, February 10). The Sydney Gazette and New South Wales Advertiser (NSW : 1803 - 1842), p. 2. Retrieved from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article626624 

A report was yesterday current that a passenger had been murdered by the natives in the road between Sydney and Parramatta; but this appears to be unfounded; as the party made choice of as the subject of the rumour we know to be at the present moment in the land of the living.
The natives seem inclined to try their dexterity in piratical achievements, now that they are assured we are tolerably upon the guard against their atrocities by land, which we hope a strict adherence to HIS EXCELLENCY's Order of the present date will bring to a speedy crisis. The exploit we now have to allude to was audacious and outré, and might possibly have been fatally successful had not vigilant resolution been opposed to it. While the William & Mary, Miller, lay at Pittwater, about 8 days since, the small boat was dispatched for a supply of water and fuel; and although the natives were numerous, yet they did not appear to have any evil design in contemplation until the boat was about to put off again; when several rushing towards her, one of them made good his grappling, in order to board on the bow, but receiving a smart earnest crack across the knuckles from one of the boatmen, was induced to relinquish his claim. Irritated at the disappointment, and considering resistance a sufficient provocation for all that was to follow, in a few moments a squadron of five vessels was equipped and sent out, under command of the commodore whose knuckles had already tingled; but sheering alongside, he, in plain English commanded the William 'to strike', though he had reason to be satisfied that he had already had striking enough in conscience. Miller replied to the summons of this sooty son of Erebus & Nox, by pointing his musket constantly at him only, and declaring his determination to kill the first that should dare to venture nearer: and none choosing to put his veracity to the test, they all turned tail; contenting them-selves with threats and imprecations. SHIP NEWS. (1805, April 28). The Sydney Gazette and New South Wales Advertiser (NSW : 1803 - 1842), p. 3. Retrieved from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article626744 

BOATS.---Came in from Hawkesbury on Saturday last, the 19th inst. the William and Mary, W. Miller owner, laden with wheat. On Tuesday came in from Hawkesbury the Raven, Thomas Raby owner, also laden with wheat ; and same day the Hope of Hawkesbury, A. Thompson owner, with wheat, barley, and oats. And on Thursday came in the Argument, Ward and Eaton owners, with wheat.---On Thursday the Hope sailed again for Hawkesbury. SHIP NEWS. (1803, March 26). The Sydney Gazette and New South Wales Advertiser (NSW : 1803 - 1842), p. 4. Retrieved from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article625468

A month ago two labouring men who were employed in procuring and salting fish in Broken bay, went out of Pittwater in on open boat, and have not since been seen. SYDNEY. (1807, July 26). The Sydney Gazette and New South Wales Advertiser (NSW : 1803 - 1842), p. 2. Retrieved from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article627479

On Thursday evening two fishmen came in from Broken Bay, with the doleful tidings of the death of William Parkhurst, who had accompanied their excursion for the purpose of procuring and salting fish. Their accounts states that at the entrance of an inlet in which they had before proved successful, a ???? gang appeared, which had not before been noticed, then opposed their progress ; and a ??? boat setting upon the bank. ??? examined the boat, from which the deceased could not ???? exertion extricate himself as far as the ???? ???? the survivors found the body, which they interred on shore, and afterwards made the best of their way to shore.  SYDNEY. (1807, August 9). The Sydney Gazette and New South Wales Advertiser (NSW : 1803 - 1842), p. 1. Retrieved from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article627485
William Parkhurst was one of 301 convicts transported on the Royal Admiral, March 1800, to New South Wales.

On Thursday a boat came in from Broken Bay, with the melancholy information of the total loss of the Argument, Pate, loaded in wheat from Hawkesbury, and the death of all the persons on board, comprising Pate himself, a woman of the name of Mary Kirk, and James Dicey, Pate's boat assistant. Their bodies were found about the short reef, nearly four miles from the Heads of Broken Bay, and interred on the morning of Thursday last. We last week mentioned her sailing out of Pittwater in company with the Hazard and Experiment, the latter of which got safe in the 17th ultimo, without being able to give any further account of the above vessel than that they lost sight of her in a heavy squall on the Sunday previous. The conjecture therefore is that Pate, although well experienced in this navigation, had in the dark, mistaken the short reef for the entrance of Broken Bay, whither he thought it prudent to return; but unfortunately this mistake proved fatal.—The vessel was dashed to pieces Another small colonial vessel, the property of Daniel McLeese, laden with lime, has since also been lost near the same place, but no lives lost.
SHIP NEWS. (1809, April 2). The Sydney Gazette and New South Wales Advertiser (NSW : 1803 - 1842), p. 1. Retrieved fromhttp://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article627714

Jim's Sally Morris records the loss in 1872 of the Caledonia near Resolute Beach while making for the shelter of Coaster's Retreat and the drowning of the captain with some ascribing the 'ghost' of a seafarer dressed in sou'wester who turns up in early photos taken at The Basin as this poor soul:

BARRANJUEE— BROKEN BAY.
Friday. — The schooner Caledonia, from Sydney to Port Stephens, capsized in a strong southerly squall to-day in Pittwater, and went down in four fathoms. The captain, Donald Melville, was drowned, but his body has been recovered. The rest of the crew are saved.
Several were picked up by a boat from the ketch Prince Alfred, anchored close to the spot. The remains of the captain are lying at the Customs station, Broken Bay. The crew have been supplied with what they required by Mr. A. Black. BARRANJUEE—BROKEN BAY. (1872, October 8). The Newcastle Chronicle (NSW : 1866 - 1876), p. 2. Retrieved from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article111145067

These souls are not the only ones whose final resting place is at The Basin. Jim Macken's Sally Morris of the Basin records a Mrs. Kempster being buried in The Basin midden in December 1881 with Sally in attendance.

Looking after the Environment so The Environment May Look after you
There have been a few instances of proposals to further develop what land was privately owned at Coasters and at what we today called 'Currawong' but which was once called 'Little Mackerel beach'. 

The WSC meeting of September 9 1977:

TOWN PLANNING REPORT(contlnuatlon sheet 6 ) No: 77/3614 APPENDIX 1 POPUlATION PROJECTIONS In order to quantify the impact of full developeent on Scotland Inland, the western foreshore settlements and Cottage Po±nt, & study has been made of the existing residential zonings, the number or allotments, their potential for resubdivieion, dwelling stocks and occupancy rates. This has provided the following caSculations of the potential population in those areas currently zoned Residential 2(a). More details on these estimates are contained in Table 1 over. Population Scotland Island, Coasters Retreat, Cottage Total Elvinn Bay, Little Mackarel Point Lovett Bay and Beach, Towlerb Bay Mackarel Beach Population (1971 Census) 31? 39 67 1418 2 Estimated Population (current subdivision) 4 1.0 p.p.d. 569 186 62 817 0 2.9 p.p.d. 1650 539 180 2369 Estimated Potential Population (Resub- division) O 1.0 p.p.d. 648 233 75 9514 * 2.9 p.p.d. i8Bo 676 212 2767 Clearly, the population of the Study Area would almost double if all existing lots were developed, based on the present Study Area dwelling occupancy rate of 1.0 person per dwelling. It would riae some O% if the occupancy rate increased to the average of the Shire as a whole, 2.9 persons per dwelling. Furthermore, if the residential tomes were subdivided to their maximum potential, and then fully developed, the population would more than double its present level, on the Study Area occupancy rate, while if the occupancy rate increased to the Shire's average, the population increase would be about 660% of the present level. Given that the existing population already has a significant impact on the environment of Pittwater and Ku-ring-gai Chase National Park, such increases would clearly cause a complete change in the character of these areas, and in the viability of their current, predominantly recreational land use. The details of this impact are examined in the following appendices. In addition, surveys have been undertaken of all residential development in the Study Area, including occupancy, building materials and condition of dwellings. This information is indicated in Plan PA 1948. The ownership of all land in the Study Area, and whether dwellings are occupied by their owners is indicated in Plan PA 1940. This is largely updated information to that used to calculate the population estimates contained in Table 1. The prescribed zoning and Varying Scheme Mo. 7 proposals for Us Study Area are indicated in Plan PA 1914k. 

Due to the isolated location of Scotland Island and the western foreshore settlements, the provision of water transport services is a major consideration in their future development. This is necessarily linked to the availability of on-shore parking, and access to job opportunities in the Sydney Region. For Cottage Point, which is linked by road through Ku-ring-gai Chase, the consideration is the impact on the National Park likely to result from increased traffic generated by population growth. a) Commuter Power Boats: This fox, of transport is used primarily by residents of Scotland Island and the western foreshores, as Cottage Point is road-connected. Access to the north western foreshore settlements is primarily from Pittwater Park, Palm Beach. However, no commuter moorings wharf is provided here. Information suggests that the number of commuters from the Mackerel Beaches and Coasters Retreat is presently negligible, although this situation would clearly change with further development. The main present end potential problem area is Church Point, where residents of Scotland Island and the south western foreshore settlements connect to the transport system. Council provides a commuter moorings wharf at Church Point, and midday field counts in June 1976 and June 1977 indicated 71 and 92 craft respectively. The total capacity of the wharf was filled at the latter count, so the problem of providing adequate commuter mooring facilities would be sub'sntiel, on full development of the residential zones. b) Public Transport - Ferries: Pittwster is serviced by three ferry companies, two of which operate the sass route in the southern section. Both companies operate from Church Point, and serve four wharves on Scotland Island, than Towler's Bay, Hall's Wharf at Lovett Bay, Elvis. Bay, and back to Church Point. Each company has a similar timetable and operates alternately on the some route. Services are concentrated in the morning and afternoon peak periods, due to the number of commuters using the ferries. One company has three ferries of 1309 60 and p8 persons capacity, and the other 1+5, 1+5 and 20 persons and these provide ample capacity at the present time. Coasters Retreat, the Basin, and the Mackarel Beaches are served by ferries connecting to Pittwater Park, Pals Beach. This service is irregular, depending on the season and time of day. During winter, services are provided only every second day, and the operators claim that no commuters live permanently in the places served by their ferries. However, it can be expected that population growth in the north-western Pittwater locations will require ferry services of great.: frequency and reliability. The Services are, at this time, provided by private companies and in one case, a co-operative. Is this sense, their cost is borne by the recipients, except for the terminal facilities provided by Council and hence the community. However, it is conceivable that massive population growth, the potential for which exists under the present zoning, would in the longer ten result in the services having to be provided by a public authority, as has increasingly occurred on Sydney Harbour, due to the inability of private operators to provide adequate services at economic rates. This would bring the coat of the services on to the community as a whole. Those residents of Scotland Island and the western foreshore settlements who either commute to work, or use service facilities located in the larger centres (and in both cases this is necessary), suat necessarily use water transport, and that either public or private vehicle transport to their destinations. In addition to the matter of traffic considered above, the provision of adequate parking facilities for those residents with private cars is a major problem. Warringah has the highest rate of car ownership in the Sydney Region, and it Is likely that a high proportion of residents own their own vehicles, and these must be parked near the water transport terminals. For residents of Coasters Retreat and Mackerel Beach, adequate parking is presently available at Pittwater Park, Palm Beach, However, as these zones have not yet been developed to their maximum potential, the provision of sufficient parking could be expected to become a problem. The counts for Pittwater Park included in the following table were midday-winter time, and even at the present level of development, a parking problems is likely to exist in the sumter months. Residents of Scotland Island and the south-western foreshore would use Church Point as their interconnection point. Here the parking problem is already considerable, with little surplus capacity available, ewen at the sidday/wintertiae count. The situation would clearly be worse in summer months when recreational activity on Pittvater is intense, and will be exacerbated by full development of the reeidintial tones. The provision or adequate parking is clearly a cost which tends to be borne by the cosaunity, and not directly by the recipients of the service. The cost will increase concomitant with further development of the residential tones in the Study Ares. I Location Capacity Vehicles 9.6.1976 Vehicles 22.6.1977 S (Pittwater Park) 73 2'. 10 Constructed Car Park Unserked Bitumen Area 50(appx) 71 16 east of p80 (appx) 77 cars + trailers 90 cars1 10 + trailers In front of Pasadena 15 *; 15 *; 10 Rd. between Pasadena & Mitchells 60 *; 39 *; 30 M4t,he11scarPark 

The Ordinary Meeting held on December 19 1977 records;

ORDINARY MEETING _PRECIS OF CORRESPONDENCE 19.12.77 3.0 Category 'B' Correspondence _cont'd Item 3.15 _cont'd *;Then there was a wide ranging discussion dealing with various questions Including Council's concern over subdivisions, the need to preserve the present environment in the areas under discussion, the concern of ratepayers about the proposed change in zoning and the view of ratepayers that Council and its planners should further the views of the constituents of Councillors rather than Government policy on acquisition of land by the National Parks and Wild Life Service. 

After further discussion it was MOVED by Mr. A. J. Macken of Bennetts Wharf, Coasters Retreat (postal address 7/75 Bradleys Head Road, Mosman, 2088); 'THAT this public meeting rejects the recommendations contained in Planner's Report 77/364 and calls upon Council to adopt as its policy to guide the work of its planning staff the principle that the ratepayers of Scotland Island, West Pittwater and Cottage Point are entitled to retain their present Residential 2(a) Zoning.' *;The motion was SECONDED by Mr. L.M. Stewart of 'Camelot' Bonnie Doon Wharf, Coasters Retreat (postal address 10/8 Waruda Avenue, Kirribilli, 2061) 'There followed further discussion and questions were addressed to the Chairman which he answered. It was then MOVED. 'That the question be put. This notion was carried on a show of hands, The Chairman suggested that the best method of voting on Mr. Mackens motion would be for the meeting to divide. The Chairman then put the motion and an attempt was made to count hands but this was soon abandoned and, in accordance with the Chairman's suggestion, the meeting divided. On a physical count of the ratepayers the motion was CARRIED by a MAJORITY of 211 to 16. *;The meeting was informed that 29 proxies were held and these were proposed to be cast in favour of the motion. The Chairman sought the opinion of the meeting on the question of acceptance of the proxies and the Chairman ruled the proxies accepted on the voices. *;The Chairman then announced that Mr. Macken's motion was carried by a majority of 240 to 16. *;There followed further discussion during which the Chairman sought approval of the meeting to the principle that ratepayers were opposed to any further large scale subdivision on the Western Foreshores of Pittwater. The Meeting agreed on the voices.

Report to Town Planning and Building Committee Meeting, Wednesday, 7th June, 1978. 

1.7 PREPARATION OF DRAFT BUILDING CODE - SCOTLAND ISLAND, WESTERN FORESHORES OF -PITTWATER AND COTTAGE POINT - M/Misc.4/39/78. (FILE 531/1/2) Arising from the resolution of the Town Planning and Building Committee on 3.5.78, meeting was held at 2 p.m. on 25.5.78 at the Civic Centre and was attended by representatives from - Scotland Island Residents' Association, West Pittwater Progress Association, Cottage Point Progress Association, Coasters Retreat Progress Association, The Investigative Committee - the Shire Health Surveyor, Town Planner and Deputy Town Planner, and was chaired by Councillor Bateman. Apart from several issues which are to be redrafted and submitted to a later meeting, the representatives in attendance were generally in agreement, with two exceptions, with principles enunciated by the Draft Code. Minutes are to be distributed to the representative organisations for discussion at their, respective Associations and a further meeting is to be held at 2 p.m. on 6.7.78 at the Civic Centre. RECOMMENDATION: 143 That the information be noted. COMMITTEE'S DECISION (7.6.1978): That the foregoing recommendation be adopted. (Crs. Begaud/Power)

Special Meeting held February 6 1980: Report to Town Planning & Building Committee Meeting, 6th February, 1980 3.14 SUBDIVISION APPEAL LOTS 40 & 41, D.P. 21474, COASTERS RETREAT (File SF1045/Lot 40 & 41) The Development Unit on 30.8.79, considered an application for the subdivision of Lots 40 and 41, D.P. 21474, Coasters Retreat into six allotments. The application was refused for reasons including unsuitability of the site for disposal of septic effluent, the instability of the land and overhanging rock formations, insufficient suitable land for the erection of dwelling houses, adverse affect on the amenity of the area, and that the proposed subdivision contravenes Council's policy (0.M. 20.12.71, reaffirmed T.P.B.C., 8.2.78) of refusing further subdivision on the western foreshores of Pittwater. The applicant appealed against this decision, and the appeal was heard by the Local Government Appeals Tribunal on 11th, 12th & 13th December, 1979. The Board found in Council's favour in refusing the subdivision application, on the grounds of:(1)the adverse affects that human activities at the higher levels of the site would have on the lower sites, particularly construction of access ways and dwellings on the site at higher levels; (2)as the site is unsuitable for the disposal of septic effluent; (3) due to the unique problems of access and servicing the subject land. In outlining the reasons for its decision, the Board specifically discounted the planning considerations given as a reason for Council's refusal of the subdivision. Particular reference was made to Council's policy of prohibiting further subdivisions on the western foreshores of Pittwater as follows:_*;We have weighed the Council's policy decision and the planning' background as was urged upon use by Mr Doyle. However, we are unable to find in that policy any sound reasons for the refusal of the subdivision. The land is zoned Residential 2(a). That zoning is one primarily for the erection' of dwelling houses. Provided a subdivision proposes allotments which prima facie are suitable for such use, then we think it impossible to justify any policy of prohibiting subdivision per se in an attempt to limit population expansion within these western areas of Pittwater. Quite apart from the obvious objection that such a prohibition may not achieve this intent, it is in direct conflict with the planning decision taken to zone the areas Residential 2(a). *;Furthermore, the Council's approach seems, de facto, to be one of attempting to impose a Non-urban zoning or an Open Space reservation on privately owned land zoned Residential. In the report to the Council's Development Control Unit and in the Statement of Evidence of Mn Fleming, the Council's Development Controller, there is an identical statement in the following terms:

Report to Town Planning & Building Committee Meeting, 6th February, 1980 (Item 3.14 cont'd) ;This Department is primarily concerned that the proposed subdivision involves a substantial area of bushland in a prominent position on the western foreshores of Pittwater and it is considered to be in the public interest to preserve the amenity of this land by retaining the remainder of undeveloped land in its natural state. Whether such an approach is desirable or not, it is, in our opinion, illegitimate unless the appropriate steps are taken to amend the present zoning. 'Without going into detailed comparisons, it is obvious that the present allotments are very considerably oversized and lend themselves to further subdivision provided a suitable subdivision can be designed. Given the zoning and the land ownership we do not think that a subdivision can be refused on Town Planning grounds.; This decision of the Board reiterates similar decisions on appeal previously made in relation to subdivision on the western foreshores of Pittwater, where the Board has refused to uphold Council's policy as it is inconsistent with the zoning provisions of the Warringah Planning Schema. The policy, by virtue of the fact that it cannot be successfully defended in appeal situations, is therefore ineffective. Council should therefore again consider either rescinding this policy, or suspending the Residential 2(a) zone on Scotland Island, the western foreshores of Pittwater and Cottage Point and reintroduce a zoning with provisions prohibiting further subdivision in those areas, as was originally resolved T.P.B.C. 16.10.74, and again proposed T.P.B.C. 7.9.77 but not adopted by T.P.B.C. 8.2.78. Rezoning limited to land in this are', with subdivision potential is also an option, and would have the effect of consistency between the Planning Scheme and the State Government's acquisition policy for this area. RECOMMENDATION: 1.That Council note the decision of the Local Government Appeals Tribunal in relation to the subdivision appeal concerning Lots 40 and 41, D.P. 21474, Coasters Retreat. 2.That Council either abolish its policy of no further subdivision on the western foreshores of Pittwater; or seek suspension of the Residential 2(a) zones on Scotland Island, the western foreshores of Pittwater and Cottage Point (or part thereof), and introduction of a zoning with the provision prohibiting further subdivision in these areas. COMMITTEE'S RECOMMENDATION AND COUNCIL'S DECISION (6.2.1980): 1. That Council note' the decision of the Local Government ' Appeals Tribunal in relation to the subdivision appeal concerning Lots 40 and 41, D.P. 21474, Coasters Retreat. 2. That a report be submitted urgently on implementation of a change of zoning on selected parts of Scotland Island, the Western Foreshores of Pittwater and Cottage Point where subdivision potential exists. (Crs.Power/Hummerston) 

Report to Town Planning and Building Committee Meeting, 4th June, 1980: 3.3 FORESHORE /1 Pt. 3) Background At Special Meeting 6th February, 1980, Council considered a report (80/82) on the decision of the Appeals Tribunal to refuse a subdivision appeal at Lots 41 and 42, DP 21474 Coasters Retreat. However, the Tribunal rejected, as one of the reasons for refusal, Council's long standing policy of opposing further subdivision on the western foreshores of Pittwater and described it as 'illegitimate'. It re;affirmed the advice of a number of previous appellate bodies who have considered this policy, and said that significant weight cannot be given to it unless and until it is incorporated in the statutory zoning. Council was recommended either to give that policy a statutory C basis or to abandon it, and it chose the former course. At Special Meeting 2nd April, 1980, Council considered a report arising out of it's decision on the above, and identifying subdivision potential on Scotland Island, the western foreshores of Pittwater and Cottage Point. It was recommended that Council proceed with re-zoning by suspension of the whole of these residentially zoned areas and the reinstatement of all the present zoning provisions with the addition of a statutory prohibition on subdivisions which create new residential allotments. It was also suggested that Council consider whether it wished to include other aspect-s in any suspension, particularly to give a statutory basis to the advisory building code which was drawn up in conjunction with local residents' associations and which has been operating for some two years; and whether it wished to recommend to the State Government that certain visually prominent headlands, hilltops and elevated hillsides should be reserved for County Open Space because of their environmental significance around Pittwater. Neither of these two aspects was recommended for inclusion. Council resolved that the Interim Development Order should [1 contain both of these points and called for a further survey identifying the land which should be reserved for County Open Space (Minute 387(2)). _Therefore, the survey was carried out and reported to Council in two documents at Special Meeting 30th April, 1980, viz: a ' report (80/240) and a map (TPGOA). These documents were specific as to which land was affected by Council's proposal to recommend to the State Government that land be reserved for County Open Space, Council decided to exhibit its proposal accordingly (Minute 538). At Special Meeting 21st May, 1980, Council considered Presidential Minute No. 23/80 which recommended that Council review the matter of the proposed County Open Space reservation. Council resolved **;that Council's decisions to exhibit this proposal (Minute 538, Special Meeting 30/4/1980 and Minute 387, Special Meeting)-_2/4/1980)be deferred and the exhibition removed, and -hat the pri5nil be the subject of a further… The Deputy Shire Clerk has received a letter dated 27th May, 1980, from the Scotland Island Residents' Association conveying a motion of no confidence in the Chief Town Planner which is said to have been carried unanimously by 160 residents and ratepayers present at an Extraordinary General Meeting of the Association held on Sunday, 25th May, 1980. a The letter sets out three reasons for the motion and goes on to request that the Chief Town Planner be relieved of his current position and transferred to other duties. The letter indicates that copies of it were sent to all Councillors and also to Mr. M. Smith, M.P., and the following Progress Associations; West Pittwater, Coasters Retreat, Mackeral Beach, Cottage Point. After examination of the contents of the letter, the Deputy Shire Clerk formed the opinion that it may be defamatory of the Chief Town Planner, and he consulted with me in accordance with the Council's policy (adopted 619/1955) relating to receipt of communications considered likely to be defamatory. Council's policy is as follows *;The following procedure be observed upon receipt by the Shire Clerk of any communication which in his official capacity the Shire Clerk considers is or may be defamatory: 1.Upon receipt of such communication the Shire Clerk shall confer with the President thereon and shall forward the communication to the Council's solicitors who shall be instructed on behalf of the Council; the President and the Shire Clerk to advise upon the following points: Whether the communication is defamatory or not. Whether Its publication to the Councillors or any Officers of the Council Is protected by the provisions of the Defamation Act, 1958 or otherwise. (c) What action is open and advised to the Council on the matter. 2.Upon receipt of the Solicitors' advice the same (if to the effect that the publication to the Councillors or any appropriate Officers is protected) then the opinion of the Solicitors shall be communicated to the President and the Council at a Committee Meeting at which the press and public are excluded, to be held as soon as practicable thereafter. 3.If the Solicitors advise that the communication is not privileged then the same shall be retained in their confidential files and any action recommended in respect of the same shall be taken by the recipient of such communication. 4.Where such communication alleges a serious crime or a serious offence against the Local Government Act, 1919, and or the report and consideration at Town Planning and Building Committee 4th June, 1980*;. Present Situation The present situation is now as it was prior to Town Planning and Building Committee 2nd April, 1980. Therefore, the same report is annexed to this report and it is recommended that Council consider again the recommendations therein. If Council decides to proceed with all three components of the re-zoning, Map TP60A will again be available at the meeting for consideration and decision by Council. RECOMMENDATION: 1.That the above information be noted and that the recommendation on the attached report (from T.P.8.C. 2/4/1980) be considered by Council. 2.That, irrespective of Council's decision on I above, any suspension include the Residential (a) zone at Currawong, Little Mackeral Beach as County Open Space Reservation in pursuance of the statement by the Minister of Lards in Parliament on 22nd November 1978, that this State Labour Council land will be added to the Ku-ring-gai Chase National Park. PROCEEDINGS IN BRIEF: Mr. Eric Simes, Preident of West Pittwater Progress Association and Chairman of the Investigative Committee formed of all Progress Associations in the area, was given leave to address the Committee. Mr. Simes commented that it appears the Council's decisions of 2nd and 30th April, 1980 had been based on exaggerated populations. He said many owners of land in the areas would agree to put voluntary covenants on the titles of their properties restricting further development, with power of revocation being vested with the Registrar General or Council, rather than have a statutory planning control imposed. He said that the present building code was being successfully administered, and requested that the decisions be rescinded, and asked Council to consider, the report which his Association had presented to Council. Mr. Macken, President of Coasters Retreat Progress Association, was given leave to address the Committee and outlined the history of this matter and said that Council had used its powers for improper, unlawful purposes. He said that the State Government was only interested in acquiring land offered to it by the owners. Mr. Macken said that Council should rescind its decisions of 2nd and 30th April, 1980. … This report is marked confidential under criteria (c, in order to 9iv7 Council the opportunity of discussing the various issues and options in relation to the rezoning of selected parts of these areas so that CouncLl can determine its own prefevence for a strategy prior to the issue being made public; and to avoja pr,judicSng Council's interests in the proposal whtch could arise If the same misunderstandings as . occurred with Council's earlier rezonin; proposals are repeated. 2.COUNCIL RESoLUTION: At Town Planntg and Building Coznttee ot 6th February. 1980, Council noted the decision of the Local Government Appeals Tribunal in relation to a subdivision apoeal concerning LOts 40 and 41, D.P. 21474, Coasters Retreat, and at Special :teeti.ng of 6th February, 1980, Counctl resolved:;That a report be submitted urgently on the implement_ation of a change of zoning on selected parts of Scotland Island. the Western Foreshoree of Pittwater and Cottage Point where subdivision potential exists.; 3.SunvEy: in response to Council's resolution at Special Meetin; of 5th February. 1980, a survey has been carrted out, identtfying those allotments on Scotland Island. the Western Foreshores and Cottage Point capable of further subdivision on the basis of present ownership and subdivision pattern. Table 1 summarises numertcally the existing numbers of residential allotments and estimated potential resubdivision calculated on the basis of area and access requirements, but not accounting for allotments required for dedicatton as public reserve as part of any further subdivision. It is emphasised that the survey does not snclude subdivision potential which could arise from consotidatton of existing allotments, land -swaps or other anements between neishbours or demolition or alteration of buildtngs such that further subdvtsion of existing allotments nay be achieved. Subdivision potential of this nature cannot be meaningfully predicted or accurately surveyed, although it co'ild constttute a signifcan: pr000rtion of subdivision po:enttal in the Western Fcreshores locality. The total ,oten:Lal increase in the number of residential eJ.lotments wn:h would occur only on the basis of ,otenttal resubdivision identtfted tn the survey oonstttutes at 12,4% increase over the extsting number of allotments. Takint the averace occupancy rate catcuated from the 1976 Census for the Western Foreshores, Scotland island and Cottaze Point of 1.2 persons per dwelling. Calthough this is only an average figure and does _no: reflect the peak weekend occupancy rates and the likelihood 

COMMITTEE'S RECOMMENDATION AND COUNCIL'S DECISION (4.6.1980): That_1. Council's decisions of 2nd and 30th April, 1980 (Minutes 387 and 638) be rescinded and further that the area of Cottage Point be deleted from any future deliberations. a special 'sub-committee be formed under the chairmanship of the Deputy President, Cr. R.J.D. Legg, and to consist of the Town Planner, Shire Health & Building Surveyor, a representative from each of the Mackerel Beach Progress Association, Coasters Retreat Progress Association, West Pittwater Progress Association, Scotland Island Residents' Association, Bayview Church Point Progress Association and Palm Beach Association, and the 'A' Riding Councillors, the sub-committee to report to the August Town Planning & Building Committee on the following matters_(a)The means of implementing Council's longstanding policy prohibiting further subdivisions within the Western Foreshores of Pittwater and Scotland Island. (b)The problems that could arise should full residential development take place on all subdivided blocks available within this area. (Crs. Dawson/Power) FURTHER THAT Council advertise the suspension of the Residential (a) zoning at Currawong (Little Mackerel Beach) and its rezoning as County Open Space Reservation in pursuance of the statement by the Minister of Lands in Parliament on 22.11.1978 that this land, owned by the Labour Council of N.S.W., will be added to the Ku-ring-gai Chase National Park, (Crs. Dawson/Berrell) (Note: The foregoing was carried on amendment, a motion by Crs. Beckman/Jones to the effect_;That the decisions of Council at 9,4.80 and 30.4.80 be rescinded and any initiative on OPSfl space acquisitions be left to the State Government and that a Sub-Committee be formed (coitpristcrg the membership listed above)._to discuss altep±ves put forward by the West --'n cwater Progress Association in its subrnission(6irding the subdivision potential proposal in all areas, this sub-committee to repoz7t to the August meeting of the Town Planning &) Building Committee.; having been superseded). 

Report to Town Planning & Building Committee Meeting 9th July, 1980 1 (Item 3.17 - contd) Applications for substantial development on these restricted battle-axe handle waterfronts have caused problems of contravening riparian boundaries. Some applications have proposed jetty, ramp, pontoon, boatshed, slip, reclamation, on a frontage of 4m., and more than half of the development was proposed in front of an adjoining property. Because of these problems, a minimum private waterfrontage of Sm. is recommended in accordance with the practice in Gosford and this will also be incorporated into the current review of Council's subdivision policy. (g) Riparian boundaries in bays run from an assumed centre of the bay. Previous practice has been for Lands Department field staff to decide, but not record, this arbitrary point. In discussion, they accept CouncIl -: - initiative to define these on a plan to form -part of the code, after exhibition. RECOMMENDATION 1.That the information in this report be noted, and that the attached draft policy be placed on public exhibition for a period of 28 days to gauge public response to the proposals, as a more detailed revision of Council's existing policies. That the State Government Departments mentioned in this report and the Bayview/Church Point Progress Association, Avalon Preservation Trust, Newport Progress Association, Palm Beach Association, Scotland -' Island Residents' Association, Great Mackerel Beach Progress Association, West Pittwater Progress Association, and Coasters Retreat Progress Association, be specifically asked for their comments within the above period. 2.That after. the expiry date, a further report be prepared ) to the Town Planning and Building Committee summarising f: the response. 84u COMMITTEE'S RECOMMENDATION AND COUNCIL'S DECISION (9 7 1980) That the foregoing recommendation be adopted, subject to the substitution in clause, 1 of 116011 days in lieu of ''28''. - (Crs Dawson/Hummerston)

Report to Town Planning and Building Committee Meeting, 6th August, 1980 (Item 3.8 Cont'd) (b) A letter, 18.7.80, the author of which refers to himself as a consumer of holiday facilities offered by the Labour Council, who, whilst supporting the proposal to rezone Currawong, asks) why Council has delayed the matter until now following the Minister for Lands' statement in Parliament 22.11.78 and asks why Council does not also include other land on the western foreshores at Great Mackerel Beach and Coasters Retreat areas in the rezoning proposal fI' 06unty Open Space. Comment: Following the Minister for Lands' statement in Parliament 22.11.78, Council was under the impression that the State Government a$ negotiating the acquisition of the Labour Co4 ii's land. Council's resolution 4.6.80 rescinded earlier proposals for inclusion of other land in the area as County Open Space Reservation. 4. SUMMARY Council’s consistent approach has reflected public opinion and has been that the Currawong area should not be developed as a residential subdivision, and should be acquired by the State Government and incorporated Within Ku-Ring-Gai Chase National Park. In view of the continue4 interest of the State Government in acquiring the State Labor Council land at Currawong, and Council's continued opposition to the residential subdivision of this land, Council should approach the Minister for Planning and Environment to seek the rezoning of this ltnd to County Open Space Reservation. RECOMMENDATION: That Council request the Minister for Planning and Environment to suspend the Residential 2(a) zoning of the Labour Council of N.S.W. land at Currawong, and introduce an Interim Development Order including this land as County Open Space Reservation. Re (1) above, the Labour Council has previously expressed its intention to develop Its site for residential purposes by submitting a subdivision application for 39 residential allotments in the Residential 'A' zoned part of the land. The Labour Council could well change its recent intention from that stated in its letter 6.7.80 and again seek subdivision for residential purposes. Re (2) above, there would be no reason for a devaluing of the property. 14, is understood that the State Government (FEC) values properties for acquisition on the basis of current market value regardless of a County Open Space Reservation. Re (3) above, this decision would rest with the Labour Council [1 A County Open, Space Reservation would not prohibit furt.:er development of the site for its present use. Re (4) above, a County Open Space Reservation expresses the intention of the FEC to acquire the property. Under Clause 18 of Warringah Shire Planning Scheme Ordinance, upon written notice from the property owner of land reserved for County Open Space, the responsible authority must acquire such land. Two additional letters were received from interested parties. (a) The Coasters Retreat Association, by letter 18.7.80 expresses its opposition to the proposal, basically on the grounds that:_*;The Coasters Retreat Association has no policy and therefore expresses no opinion on the acquisition of Currawong by the National Parks & Wildlife Service if effected in circumstances where the land is offered for sale to the Service by the owner as outlined in the Minister's letter of 4th May, 1980. What is opposed is the attempt to disadvantage one party to any such transaction or to hasten its consummation by the suspension of the established Residential 2(a) zoning. Although primarily a matter for Council's own legal advisers, the decision taken by Council, having regard to the reasons set out in the resolution itself, would appear not to be a bona fide exercise of the powers of Council. From Council's considerable experience, compulsory acquisition is not carried out by the State Government, but rather voluntary acquisition upon offer of the owner of the land. The suggestion that Council's proposal to rezone this land ;is not bona fide; is refuted and no evidence to substantiate this claim is offered by the Association. COMMITTEE'S RECOMMENDATION AND COUNCIL'S DECISION (6.8.1980): That the foregoing recommendation be adopted. (Note: An amendment was unsuccessfully proposed by Crs Bate_man/Beckman to the effect;That the views of the Labor Council be sought and this matter be reported back to a subsequent meeting.

Report to Town Planning & Building Committee Meeting 3rd September, 1980 3.18 SCOTLAND ISLAND/WESTERN FORESHORES SUB-COMMITTEE (File: 531/1/3) The Scotland Island/Western Foreshores Sub-Committee was established by resolution of the Town Planning & Building Committee on 4.6.1980 (Min. No. 658). The Sub-Committee was established with the following terms of reference:_;(a) the means of implementing Council's long standing policy of prohibiting further subdivisions within the western foreshores of Pittwater and Scotland Island. (b) the problems that could arise should full residential development take place on all subdivided blocks available within the area.; The Sub-Committee has held five evening meetings and was not able to report to the August meeting of the Town 111-:r ling & Building Committee, as desired by Council. The Sub-Committee comprised the following: Coasters Retreat Assn. (Mr. Tony Macken) Gt. Mackerel Bch. Prog. Assn. (Dr. Hensley) West Pittwater Prog. Assn. (Mr. Eric Simes) Scotland Is. Res. Assn. (initially Mr. R. Green, then Mr. Paul Curtis) Bayview/Church Pt. (Mr. Dick Pearse) Prog. Assn. Palm Beach Progress Assn. (Mr. Martin Hastings) Shire Health & (Mr. Lance Castle) Building Surveyor Chief Town Planner (Mr. Peter Nichols) 'A' Riding Councillors (Crs. Bateman, Beckman & Dawson) Vice Chairman Cr. Legg Crs. Beckman and Legg attended each of the Sub-Committee meetings and the representatives of the various Associations also attended each Sub-Committee meeting, as did the Chief Town Planner, the Assistant Town Planner, firs. S. Stewart and the Shire Health & Building Surveyor. Concern was expressed by a number of the Committee members from time to time about what they considered to be the unduly restrictive terms of reference. Throughout the meetings of the Committee, it was very difficult to ascertain whether matters raised came within the terms of reference. It also became obvious during the meetings of the Sub-Committee that there was broadly a division of view between the representatives of the Coasters Retreat Association, Great Mackerel Beach Progress Association, West Pittwater Progress Association, Scotland Island Resident's Association and (usually) Palm Beach Association on the one hand, and the representatives of the Bayview/Church Point Progress make provision for extra population growth on the western foreshores. (Mr Simes/Dr Hensley) Mr Peatse's dissent recorded. D. This Sub-Committee recommends that, based on the future premise that at the end of a 5 year period there will be a need for a further 70 boats and 60 cars (estimated by Scotland Island Residents Association), the vehicles generated by the lower West Pittwater foreshores, a contingency plan to deal with this be prepared by Council. (Messrs Curtis/Simes) E. Council consider that where adjacent blocks are in the same ownership in the affected area, Council draw the rate levy only from the block on which the dwelling is situated. (Messrs Curtis/Hastings) F. The Sub-Committee is of the opinion that the present and future issues of development at Coasters Retreat, Mackerel Beach, the Western Foreshores, Scotland Island, Church Point and Palm Beach are distinct and solutions need to be sought for distinct areas. (Messrs Pearse/Curtis) G. That it be recognised that- (i)there are possibilities for further growth on the western foreshore area (Elvina/Lovett Bay) in the order of 48% over current population based on total subdivision as calculated by the West Pittwater Progress Association; (Messrs Pearse/Nichols) (ii)there is even greater potential on Scotland Island, in which on current subdivisions alone, the 175 dwellings in 1980 can be increased to approx. 338; (Messrs Pearse/Nichols) (iii)a joint study should be made by the Associations of ratepayers and residents directly affected to ascertain the present and likely future land use of Scotland Island and the southern areas of West Pittwater and Church Point with a view to the adoption of common policies reconciling requirements and interests of all. (Dr Hensley/Mr Curtis) H. In principle, local residents, associations on the western foreshores, Scotland Island and Bayview/Church Point support reasonable limitation of future growth provided it is in a fair and equitable manner and not detrimental to individual landholders. (Mr Pearse/Dr Hensley) 

Report to Town Planning G Building Committee Meeting. 2nd December 1980 3.11 PITTWATER FORESHORES _POLICY TO CONTROL DEVELOPMENT _REVIEW (File: 537/23) Introduction Town Planning Report 80/179 to TPBC 9/7/80 outlined the background to development control in Pittwater under Clause 59 of the Warringah Shire Planning Scheme Ordinance, the existing statutory control of the Council and the various government bodies. Because of growing pressure for more intensive waterfront development, it identified the need for more detailed expression of the guiding principles agreed by Council and the other relevant authorities in the 1960s. The proposed revised policy was attached as Appendix 1. Council's decision was as follows: ;1. That the information in this report be noted and that the attached draft policy be placed on public exhibition for a period of sixty (60) days to gauge public response to the proposals, as a more detailed revision of Council's existing policies. That the State Government Departments mentioned in this report and the Bayview/Church Point, Progress Association, Avalon Preservation Trust, Newport Progress Association, Palm Beach Association, Scotland Island Residents Association, Great Mackerel Beach Progress Association, West Pittwater Progress Association and Coasters Retreat Progress Association be specifically asked for their comments within the abciiie period. 2. That after the expiry date, a further report be prepared to the T.P.B.C. summarising the response.*; This is the further report. Results of Advertising and Comments A. PUBLIC. RESPONSE The public response took two forms _three replies from residents' associations and nine letters from individual residents. (i) West Pittwater Progress Association. The W.P.P.A. stated that *;our Association supports the objectives of the policy and we endorse Council's intention to be flexible in its implemen_tation *; With regard to. specifics, it objected to using pitch of roof as a means of assessing boatshed applications and commented upon the 2m wide restriction (with steps recessed) of jetties as being too narrow. Comment. Rather than using a specific angle of pitch as a guide for traditional boatsheds, the revised policy Specifies ratio of roof area to total height and length. With regard to jetty width, it need be emphasised that such structures are for private use and 2m is considered sufficient.

The Report to Reserves and Community Services Committee Meeting, 17th November. 1981 records:. 6.5 LARGE LITTER DISPOSAL BINS. (Files 17/6, 611 & 440) This report follows Notice of Motion by Councillor. Green at the Ordinary Meeting of the 23rd March, 1981, requesting the investigation of the feasibility of installing large litter disposal bins throughout our Shire, similar to those at present being used by the Gosford City Council on its beaches and reserves. This Council during the Summer season places 44g. drums and Be Tidy bins throughout the Shire's Beaches and Reserves. The bins are relocated with the change of seasons and during Winter, re-painted-for the heavy Summer period. Currently, 4-yard containers are in location at Manly District Park and Pittwater Park, Palm Beach, where the latter receives, in addition to litter generated from day trippers, domestic garbage from Coasters Retreat and Mackerel Beach. Residents may dump all non-putrescible waste at Kimbriki Tip free, from sedans, station wagons, car type utilities, panel vans, single axle trailers of limited size, conditional upon the driver being a resident of the Shire and the material being of domestic origin, and at the rate or $101§0 per tonne where disposal is by other vehicles. The present Warringah garbage service is twice weekly to all properties lottftin the Shire excluding Cottage Point; in addition. three r Clean-Up Campaigns are conducted per year. Gosford The Shire has a static population of 90,000. Twice weekly 'domestic garbage service and once yearly Clean-Up is conducted by contractors for the Shire. Because of the long distances of travel from parts of the Shire to the three tips owned and conducted by the Council (in some instances 25 kilometers 'separate residential areas from tip locations), Council has placed 2-yard containers in strategic locations chiefly in the beach areas of the Shire;. some 46 of these have been located and in several locations, banks of up to 4 containers on a concrete pad have been installed. Usage is heavy, requiring generally, daily clearance and up to three clearances per day in the heavy Summer months. The Senior Officer contacted advised that it is proposed to install mini transfer stations to replace some of the higher usage container placements. Despite the provisions of these containers, very significant illegal dumping is continued, to the extent that in some parts of the Shire, undeveloped.. blocks of land in dead-end streets have become illegal dumping sites and in the steeper terrain, retrieval of dumped material is virtually impossible. 

Report to Ordinary Meeting, 23rd November 1981: 1.2 NOTICE OF COUNCIL TOWN PLANNING INITIATIVES AFFECTING COASTERS RETREAT (File 537/23) The President of the Coasters Retreat Association, Mr. A.J. Macken, has informed Council that at the 1981 Annual General Meeting of the Coasters Retreat Association it was resolved: ‘That Warringah Shire Council be requested to advise this Association in advance of any meeting of Council at which any proposal for the preparation of a draft local environmental plan or environmental study affecting the whole or any parts of the land at Coasters Retreat is to be or may be considered by Council, in sufficient time to enable this Association to be represented thereat.’ Mr. Macken states that their members are aware and appreciative of the provisions of the legislation relating to public exhibition of an environmental study to invite public submissions thereon, in particular Section 59. Members wish to be informed at the earlier stage, when a decision may be called for from Council as to what areas of Warringah Shire Council are to be included in, or excluded from, a draft local environmental plan. Council will be aware that it has adopted as policy the notification of neighbouring property owners of applications for local environmental plans prior to these applications being submitted to Council. It would appear that this policy should satisfy the requirements of the Association without the necessity for it to be separately advised. Given the large number of citizen associations throughout the Shire, it would create administrative difficulties if particular associations are written to regarding events that may occur in the future. . RECOMMENDATION That the Coasters Retreat Association be advised of Council's policy. COUNCIL'S DECISION (23.11.1981) 1311 ADOPTED

For twelve years the Friends of Currawong, and the then MP for Pittwater Rob Stokes, ran an intensive campaign to save Currawong from developers. On the 8th of April 2011 Currawong came under the ownership the the NSW State Government and the management of Pittwater Council.

Over 1000 people attended the Currawong Day celebration at Currawong Beach on Sunday 29th of May, 2011. The day was filled with showers, rainbows, sunshine, a kookaburra watching the proceedings from the Jacaranda tree outside Midholme and other omens of blessing and success. In the lines waiting patiently to catch ferries a sense of bonhomie. On the ferries strangers greeted each other and shared stories as though they had all been going to this place for decades together like this - which some of them actually had been doing. The excitement and happiness created a party atmosphere that lasted all day.

Currawong Day 2011. Pic: AJG/PON


Charles 'Chick' Witchard in the tender with his best mate 'Becky'. Photo courtesy Avalon Beach Historical Society, Geoff Searl OAM


This photo shows the staff of Palm Beach Marine Service in 1973. Left to right they are: Ron Parker, Bob Tatterdel, Bob Lyall, Don Carrol, Lindsay Wellings, Lance Knight, Jim Faulkener, Owen Morris, Jim Fisher and George Hannaford. Photo courtesy Avalon Beach Historical Society, Geoff Searl OAM


Lindsay Wellings and John Aldritt Pic: AJG/PON, 2013


Left to right - Pittwater legends: Chris Alldritt (John's son), Jayson McDonald, Russell Walton, Brian Friend (all former Water Police as well), and Peter Verrills - all of whom helped with the Goddards and Goldthorpe & Smith research. Pic: AJG/PON

Left to right - Pittwater legends: Bill Goddard (son of Jim), John Forbes (Olympian and Palm Beach Sailing Club member) Max Boorman (PBSC and RPAYC) and Commodore of Palm Beach Sailing Club, Dick Clarke, during a recent community session on local history, particularly The Basin (where Max's family lived - his dad was Ranger) and Palm Beach (Sailing) - Max is a founding member of PBSC - his Profile runs this Spring. Pic: AJG/PON

Veteran Commercial Fishers 

Meet father and son, Santo and Robert. They are commercial fishers of the Hawkesbury River. They have both been professionally fishing all of their lives. Nowadays they only fish two nights a week, mainly in Broken Bay, which is by far the roughest waters in the Hawkesbury and they’re on the smallest, oldest boat in the fleet. This is even more amazing when you consider Robert is 71 and Santo turns 101 in November. Both fishers are always compliant with the rules and polite and courteous towards Fisheries Officers.

Text/photos courtesy NSW DPI Fisheries, October 2021 - ran in PON Community News (the locals' page for News + Notices)
NB: this boat is/was slipped at Careel Bay Boatshed annually and many locals are great friends with Robert and Santo.


Coasters Retreat wharves: Bonnie Doon + Bennets - Some History; threads collected and collated by A J Guesdon, 2026