Pittwater Online News

Newport Oval, Pittwater: Some History

by A J Guesdon

Although Trafalgar Park was given to the Newport community in the pre-Newport 'Township' era form the 1880's on, it is Newport Oval that has proved to be a gathering place for fun from the late 1950's on. 

It began as a call for a sportsground at Newport Beach, and began the way many of these projects in Pittwater commenced, with the residents of that place designing and paying for other sports facilities first - specifically, in this case, a swimming pool at the north end of Newport Beach. Newport Oval has become the home of the Mona Vale Raiders during Winter and a place for cricket during the Spring and Summer. It has also hosted jazz festivals for decades, been where you rode your horse, where the community built a library for children and baby health centre, and where there is a small scout hall for youngsters.

The newspapers of the 1920's published:

PROGRESSIVE NEWPORT

Not all Progress Associations are really progressive, but the Newport Association lives up to its name. At the annual meeting a fine years’ work was disclosed. A definite scheme regarding the improvements of roads and more direct communication throughout the district, together with the opening of a sports ground, has been formulated and forwarded to the Warringah Shire Council, which has promised to give it serious consideration as soon as the revised ratable values are known. The new swimming pool on the south end of the beach has been completed, with the exception of safety ropes, and Is now the finest swimming pool on the coast. Warringah Shire Council would ….towards its contribution. PROGRESSIVE NEWPORT (1926, January 12). The Labor Daily (Sydney, NSW : 1924 - 1938), p. 8. Retrieved from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article239870137 

Bungan Head view north over Newport, 1920's - note the pool at headland verge of 'Crossways'.

The opening of that pool - please note that the 'Jeffrey' gentleman referred to is Fred Thomas Jeffrey, not 'J.P.', :

SWIMMING

Newport's New Baths AUSTRALIAN CHAMPIONSHIPS

Sydney will boost of another bathing pool after to-day. This afternoon the Chief Secretary, Mr. C. C. Lazzarini, will open officially the new rock baths at Newport.

For some time the local Progress Association, Inspired by the energetic secretary, Mr. J. P. Jeffrey, has been at work excavating the basin from the rocks. The baths which are 115ft. long by 50ft. wide and have an average depth of 3ft. 6in. cost £550 to construct. There will be a big gala for the official ceremonies, a large number of officials of the New South Wales A.S. Association having been Invited to attend. Misses Mottle Mealing (back stroke Australian champion) and Ethel Mealing (50 yards State champion) will give exhibitions of their skill. Local races, diving, and novelty events have also been Included in the extensive programme arranged by the hon. secretary of the Newport Club, Mr. George Snell. SWIMMING (1926, January 30). The Daily Telegraph (Sydney, NSW : 1883 - 1930), p. 12. Retrieved from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article245841393 

However, it would be two decades later that the council took action. Before that occurred the Council, led by local Real Estate Agent Fred Jeffry, and by others, commenced filling in the 'Newport Lagoon' between 1933 and 1934, under a relief scheme for those made unemployed through the 1930's economic depression.

Newport Lagoon and Beach, 1900. Photo courtesy NSW Records and Archives

'Morning at Farrell's Lagoon, Newport Beach', 1912. Photo courtesy NSW Records and Archives

Footbridge at Newport Lagoon, 1915 - Newport surf shed/clubhouse in the background on beach verge

This great photo shows the view south along the ‘Newport Lagoon’ (written on the postcard) which these days approximates the Bramley Street Car Park, under which flows the watercourse originally known as the Newport Lagoon! - Geoff Searl OAM ABHS - Hesketh Swiney photo between 1910 and 1916

Newport 1918 - note the large pipe. Photo courtesy History Hub, NBC

A CREEK AT NEWPORT BEACH, (Photo: C. S. Harnett.)

Along with that lagoon at the eastern edge of the beach, part of where it flowed through, from Crystal Bay and along the section between today's Gladstone street and Bardo Road, would also require being resumed and then filled in. The enlarged sections from this panorama of Newport in the 1920's show that section to the west:

EB Studios (Sydney, N.S.W.). (1920s). Panorama of Newport Beach, New South Wales, ca. 1920s (and enlarged sections from) Retrieved from http://nla.gov.au/nla.obj-162404370 - sections from:

This shows the ocean end of the Newport Lagoon - the large building at the front (left of photo) is 'Ocean House/The Combers'

Note this house on piles in the centre of the image - on the water thoroughfare area

This aspect is towards Barrenjoey road and Gladstone street - you can see the white line of the road through the tree edges and to the right behind the house roof a white patch that is water or sand - zoomed in closer:

There is a belief among existing Aboriginal descendants that the area around the now long gone Newport Lagoon may once have been a burial ground for their ancestors, which some published reports indicate has credence:

ABORIGINES' BONES.

An old aboriginal burying place was discovered by workmen making an excavation at Newport Beach yesterday. An almost complete skeleton was found about 8ft from the surface, and another collection of bones was turned up nearby. Constable Huckins, of the Narrabeen police, took charge of the remains. ABORIGINES' BONES. (1933, March 9).The Sydney Morning Herald(NSW : 1842 - 1954), p. 8. Retrieved from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article16967172 

This wasn't the only one found:

SKELETON ON BEACH

A human skeleton was discovered in a channel at Newport Beach yesterday afternoon by two set of twins, John and Peter Morris, 14, and their sisters, Judith and Joan, 8. "Look what I found," said John, excitedly thrusting the head of the skeleton in the face of a woman on the beach. The woman fainted with shock. Police say the bones have been there for years. They may be the bones of an aborigine. SKELETON ON BEACH (1942, April 5). The Sun (Sydney, NSW : 1910 - 1954), p. 7. Retrieved from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article231763395 

SKELETON PROBABLY 100 YEARS OLD

The action of the sea, assisted by the recent flood rains, on Saturday unearthed a human skeleton in a channel near the Newport Beach. The bones were examined by the Government Medical Officer, Dr. Percy, at the City Morgue yesterday, and he expressed the opinion that it was the skeleton of a female aboriginal, and had probably been buried for at least 100 years. SKELETON PROBABLY 100 YEARS OLD (1942, April 6). The Sydney Morning Herald (NSW : 1842 - 1954), p. 7. Retrieved from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article17816956 

Newport 1934, photo courtesy Newport SLSC History - the newly opened in 1933 surf clubhouse is in the background

This 1929 Lithograph shows a concrete drain from the main road across into the Boulevarde estate:

Newport Beach - The Boulevarde Estate 1929. Item No.: c050400067 Subdivision Materials, courtesy State Library of NSW

BEACHSIDE LOTS SALE AT NEWPORT

The Boulevards Estate, at Newport Ocean Beach, is to be sold on April 13 by Messrs. Hardie and Gorman, in conjunction with F. T. Jeffrey.

The subdivision stretches from the Barrenjoey-road towards the beach, and is handily placed for easy access to the surf and the "bus services which connects it with Manly.

Of the 47 allotments, seven are business sites, situated at a crossroad and opposite existing shops. BEACHSIDE LOTS (1929, April 5). The Sun (Sydney, NSW : 1910 - 1954), p. 2 (FINAL EXTRA). Retrieved from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article222707328 

POSTPONED SALE: NEWPORT BEACH LAND

Postponed from last Saturday because of weather, the sale of the Boulvarde Estate, Newport, will be hail next Saturday. Messrs. Hardie and Gorman, in conjunction with Mr. F. T. Jeffrey, will be the auctioneers. This estate extends from the Barrenjoey-road eastward towards the ocean beach. On its main road frontages provision has been made for shop sites near the existing business centre, and on an important cross-roads corner. Bus services connecting with the tram at Narrabeen and the Manly ferry pass along Barrenjoey-road, while another service terminates at Newport. Homes are already built on sections of this estate, which has a sheltered position in the lee of a coastal headland. Terms of sale will be: Ten per cent, deposit, and the balance in five years. ON SATURDAY (1929, April 17). The Sun (Sydney, NSW : 1910 - 1954), p. 2. Retrieved from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article222705206 

Barrenjoey Road at Newport, Looking East, dated 1930 by council's ''History Hub''

TROLLEY 'BUSES Suggestion to Committee SYDNEY, Tuesday. Before the Transport Advisory Committee to-day. Mr. F. T. Jeffrey. of the Newport Progress Association, suggested the use of trolley-'buses in order to provide faster transport and to effect economies. He said that by using trolley 'buses the Government would not have to scrap its present equipment. Such 'buses should be run from Manly to Narrabeen and Newport until a fast electric train service could be provided. The Deputy Mayor of Manly (All. Brady) said that the loss on the trams in the Manly municipality and the Warringah Shire was £30.000 in 1.30-31. The replacement of trams by gasolene 'buses was advocated by his Council. TROLLEY 'BUSES (1932, August 24). Newcastle Morning Herald and Miners' Advocate (NSW : 1876 - 1954), p. 8. Retrieved from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article136598993 

This Estate Agent, Frederick Thomas Jeffrey would, by 1946, have become the President of the Newport Progress Association, the forerunner of today’s Newport Residents Association, wherein he spoke up about the need to reclaim this area for the residents. 

Newport SLSC's history book 'The First Century 1909 - 2009' compiled by Guy Jennings, states:

Fred Jeffrey is considered the first Real Estate agent of Newport. Fred met and married a French girl, Sarah, in London after serving in the First World War. He worked for Fiat Motor Works in Sydney once they returned home but the work load caused his doctor to recommend 6 weeks by the seaside. On their eyes lighting on Newport, that was it, they were home to this place. They rented a cottage from 1922 at the corner of Bardo and Seaview roads. They had two sons and a daughter; Roland, Gerald (Gerry) and Georgette. 

Fred’s first shop was a 3 metre square fibro shack on the corner of Gladstone street and Barrenjoey road, with an awning he raised for sale s- of which, his first took 6 weeks. As sales improved he and his wife constructed a home at the corner of Seaview and Barrenjoey road, the same site currently of a petrol station. By 1929 it was one of the largest structures in Newport – a two storey home - upstairs was for the family while downstairs was a shop for the real estate business. 

Fred was Secretary then President of the Newport Progress Association – the forerunner of today’s Newport Residents Association, a member of the Beach Improvement Committee, a founding member of the Newport Bowling Club and a Life Member of Newport SLSC. All of his children were prominent members of the surf club.

At the Newport Oval end of the flat area, the community's next recreation centre was the bowling club - as sited on this 1936 lithograph for the 'Hollywood Estate' at Newport - being sold through local Mr. Jeffrey.

Warringah Shire Council meetings of minutes record in their June 25th 1935 records: Royston Darling, 13/6/35, re  construction of roads in subdivision of Mrs, Trevor Jones' land at Newport Beach - (a) requesting Council to waive the requirement for the tarring of the roads; and (b) applying for the use of the Council's roller; (c) suggesting that the southern road of the sub-division be named ‘’Hollywood Road''. This was referred to the Works Committee for report.

Newport - Beach - Hollywood Estate - Barrenjoey Rd, The Boulevarde, Myola Rd, Queen's Pde East, Januray 4th 1936. Item No.: c050400017, courtesy State Library of NSW

A proud tradition started in April 1938 when 13 local men formed the 'Newport and District Bowling Club', later changed to 'Newport Bowling and Recreation Club'. Negotiations with the shire council resulted in a portion of the then sports area being resumed for the club. The council accepted 2 ratepayer loans of 500 pounds each. One loan was spent on the construction of the greens; the second loan was used to build the original clubhouse, which was erected by Mr. Tom Lockart.

Newport Bowling Club in 1941. Source - Newport Bowling Club

Prior to 1960 the Pony Club that now uses space at North Narrabeen-Warriewood (Rat Park) reserves was known as the Newport Pony Club and met on the land where Newport Bowling Club is now situated and would also, once that was available, make use of Newport Oval until the council stopped this. Residents recall the then Warringah Shire Council promised to upgrade the grounds for the Pony Club but a new council of councillors were elected and in 1969 they voted to use the Warriewood-North Narrabeen as a site to 'fill in with rubbish' (a tip) and also gave the money allocated for the Pony Club to the Warringah Rugby Club. The Pony Club retained only a small area in the new configuration. 

Horses on Barrenjoey road at Newport, dated 1950 by council's History Hub

The Second World War meant the beach was closed off with barbed wire, the Bungan Tank Trap bridge cut all those north off from anywhere south, and materials and labour were directed towards the defence efforts. 

However, soon after peace was regained the council moved forward with the ideas that had been mooted 20 years earlier. The land was to come from that known as the 'Woolcott Estate'. Mr. Woolcott had earlier sold some of his holding to David Scott of 'Bay View House' and 'Scott's Sanitorium' and 'Scott's Hotel' on Crystal Bay. He also brought people, including the elected politicians of then, to Newport to try to convince them to extend the tramways to Pittwater.

William Chares Woolcott was the eldest surviving son of Charles Henry Woolcott (1821 -1905), His father was employed by the Municipal Corporation of Sydney from 1843 and succeeded John Rae as town clerk until 1887.

PA 21297. Title; Primary Application - William Charles Woolcott 9 acres 1 rood 5 1/2 perches in Gladstone and Bishop Streets and Barrenjoey Road at Newport in Shire Warringah Parish Narrabeen County Cumberland Volume 3154 Folio 163. Contents Date Range; 27-02-1918 to 08-02-1921 - NSW Records and Archives

No. 21,297. APPLICANT :—William Charles Woolcott, Sydney. LAND:—Shire Warringah, at Newport, 4 acres 1 rood 22 ¾ perches, 3 acres 3 roods 27 perches, and 3 roods 35 ¼ perches situated in Barrenjoey-road, Gladstone and Bishop streets, comprising section H, lots 7, 8, and 11 to 18, inclusive, section J, of Newport Township.

Diagrams delineating these lands may be inspected at the Land Titles Office, Sydney.

W. G. H-WILLIAMS, Registrar-General. 7th March, 1919.  NOTICE UNDER REAL PROPERTY ACT. (1919, March 7). Government Gazette of the State of New South Wales (Sydney, NSW : 1901 - 2001), p. 1468. Retrieved from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article229667678 

Volume-Folio 3154-163 shows his acreage in 1921 and the water that flowed through this end of the estate:

Newport Warwick estate - showing Woolcott 1920. Item No.: c050400006, Subdivision Materials, courtesy State Library of NSW - note the creek flowing through all the blocks of land

In an Oral history interview with Ila Solomon (Solomon’s Boatshed, Beaconsfield street, Newport) and Thelma James by Roslyn Burge, Australian Centre for Public History, UTS, Ultimo Thelma shared; 

Thelma grew up in Kingsford and when she married Cobby James she came to live in Newport. After the war Thelma’s husband had the market gardens in Gladstone Street growing tomatoes. The gardens were all along the site, there weren’t many houses. Thelma thought they’d never be able to build there due to the water running through and the 'swampy state of the land'.

Her husband also had a business renting surf-o-planes at the beach. Her parents-in-law had the Dew Drop Inn on Pittwater at Newport. Their visitors were officers from the ships during wartime, French officers. Kitty Miles had her wedding at the guest house. Thelma’s in laws came from Gordon to Taylors Point in the 1930s. They had a house but underneath was a shop, right opposite the Torpedo Base at Taylor’s Point. This shop was a general store. Then they moved to the guest house – the Dew Drop Inn.

Market Gardens, Newport, circa 1955-1960. Photos Source: Warringah Shire Council Town Planning

In the 1950s, Newport and the wider Pittwater region were transitioning from isolated holiday villages into permanent suburbs, with small-scale agriculture remaining a key feature of the local landscape. Gladstone Street in Newport was notably used for market gardening. Local growers focused heavily on fresh produce, such as tomatoes. Information: from Newport Residents Association – Warringah Shire Council records and Guy Jennings, The Newport Story 1788-1988, Aramo Press, 1987

The WSC persevered with the community's plan for a sportsground at Newport, with letters in The Sun editions of March 1946 stating:

Lose Home Sites

Owners of allotments on the Woolcot Estate; Newport, including returned men waiting for permits to build, recently received a curt letter from the Warringah shire council informing them that the shire was taking "appropriate steps" to resume the whole estate for a sports ground. No details were given as to the nature or uses of the sports ground or the necessity for it, or any notice taken of the fact that thrifty people required the allotments for homes. This is another example of the abuse of power by a constituted body.— "Taxpayer," Crow's Nest. Lose Home Sites (1946, March 4). The Sun (Sydney, NSW : 1910 - 1954), p. 4 (LATE FINAL EXTRA). Retrieved from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article228788281 

The reply was:

Newport Progress

"Taxpayer's" letter ("Sun,' Mar. 4), protesting against the proposed resumption of allotments on the Woolcott Estate, Newport, calls for an immediate reply. Warringah Shire Council is acting in this matter following a petition signed by 275 Newport residents for the resumption of the land which is badly needed as a general sports ground, a playing field for school children and a site for a community centre. Newport is a rapidly growing centre, but because of bad planning in the early days it has no adequate recreational area. School children have no playing field apart from the sloping school grounds which are rapidly becoming built upon and school attendance has doubled in the past seven years. The land in question, is largely inferior and a considerable area is swampy, and this is under embargo for building by the Board of Health The proper draining and reclamation of this area would, in itself, be sufficient reason for the proposed resumption. — F. T. Jeffrey, president, Newport Progress Association. Newport Progress (1946, March 7). The Sun (Sydney, NSW : 1910 - 1954), p. 4 (LATE FINAL EXTRA). Retrieved from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article228788828 

Residents were also asking Warringah Shire Council about what land is available for a Scout Hall in 'Bardo Road' in October 1947. Meanwhile, the council had to come up with the funds to buy out these owners, advertising:

WARRINGAH SHIRE COUNCIL.—The Council of the Shire of Warringah hereby notifies, in pursuance of section 180 of the Local Government Act, 1919, that:

—(1) The Council proposes to raise a special loan of £18,000 (eighteen thousand pounds) for the following purposes in connection with parks and reserves in the Shire:—Palm Beach—Improvements along ocean front, road widening, and provision of parking area, £3,500: Newport Sports Ground—Finalising resumptions, draining and levelling, £4,000; Lake Park—Levelling, dredging of adjacent Narrabeen Lake, reclamation, and provision of amenities, £3,700; Collaroy i Beach—Estimated contribution towards cost of resumptions by I Lands Department, £700; Griffith Park South—Provision of parking and picnic area, £1,000 ; Dee Why Oval—Completion of raising, levelling and draining, £1,000; Dee Why Rock Baths—Improvements, £1,800 ; North Curl Curl—Replacement of rock baths, £1,200 ; Warringah and Manly Memorial Park— Improvements, £1,100 ; total, £18,000. 

(2) The rate of interest on the proposed loan will be 3 5/16% per annum, and the securities will be issued at par. 

(3) It is proposed to repay the I loan over a period of twenty years by forty (40) equal half- ' yearly instalments of principal and interest combined, each amounting to £612 5s. 6d. 

(4) The Council does not propose to levy a loan rate for the purpose of providing for the payment of the abovementioned instalments. It is intended that the instalments shall be paid from income received from parks and reserves. 

(5) Further particulars of the loan proposal may be obtained at the Council's office during ordinary office hours. (6) A period of one month from the date of the publication of this notice is allowed in which any number, not less than 25%, of the ratepayers may petition the Council to take a poll of ratepayers on the question as to whether the ratepayers approve of the loan. The number of ratepayers on the roll is 21,144. W. U. GORS, Shire Clerk, Shire Hall, Brookvale, 29th May, 1948. 1512—£1 14s. WARRINGAH SHIRE COUNCIL.—The Council of the Shire (1948, May 28). Government Gazette of the State of New South Wales (Sydney, NSW : 1901 - 2001), p. 1321. Retrieved from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article224779479 

And coming under scrutiny by the Tribune - whose primary mission was to give a voice to Veterans:

Newport Land Resumption Plan Probed

A Local Government inquiry is being held following Warringah Shire Council's announced intention to resume three houses and 11 vacant building blocks at Newport for transfer of a recreation field. The inquiry follows protests from residents who claim the recreation field is being transferred from its present site to permit extension of the local bowling club grounds. The Local Government Act says that when a recreation field is resumed suitable ground must be found in the immediate vicinity. 

Homes in Danger 

The inquiry has been postponed because of the illness of the barrister briefed by the council. More than two years ago, owners of 14 blocks in Gladstone Street, opposite the bowling club, were told by the council not to make any more improvements to their land because it was to be resumed. Three homes were then in course of construction. One home is now completed and occupied, another is completed and will be occupied shortly by the owner, while the third, which is partly finished, is to be occupied by an ex-digger whose family is separated because of the housing shortage. If Warringah Shire Council goes ahead with its resumption plans these homes would have to be demolished. A Local Government official told the Tribune that his department held inquiries when there was a protest from any group of citizens against the actions of a council. A mediator was appointed to hear both sides of a case and submit a report to the Minister, who had the final say. Newport Land Resumption Plan Probed (1948, June 12). Tribune (Sydney, NSW : 1939 - 1976), p. 7. Retrieved from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article208110396 

The Warringah Shire Council records in Minutes from Meetings records at its June 8 1948:

The FINANCE & GENERAL PURPOSES COMMITTEE'S REPORT, as contained in the Minutes of that Committee's meeting of 1st inst. a copy of which had been supplied to each Councillor, was adopted on motion of Cr. Forster, seconded by Cr. Walsham, with the Newport exception that in regard to Paragraph 6 Newport Sportsground Best options the Shire Clerk report to the next meeting of the Finance Committee as to the probable cost of demolishing and re-erecting the two cottages, and the Finance Committee be empowered to act in the matter. 

Warringah Shire Council resumptions were focused on Section H of the Woolcott subdivision, which shows 4 acres 1 rood and 22 ¾ perches on the corner of Bishop, Gladstone streets and Barrenjoey road, measuring 325 feet 10 ¾ inches on Bishop street end, 588 feet and 3 inches on current Newport oval side, 542 feet 5 ¼ inches on Gladstone street side, and 346 feet, 3 inches on Barrenjoey road side.

This is split into 10 large lots which are further subdivided into smaller lots, some selling as bigger sections of land as well – for example the lots further and alongside these of 3 acres 3 roods and 27 half perches. 

Vol-Fol: 3235-80 records Louisa Jane James, wife of George James of Leichhardt, buy Lots 32 and 31 measuring 320 feet by 123 feet on October 6 1921 then sell to a builder, Ernest Henry Wheatley, of Campsie, on March 1st 1937. He sells to John Donald Moir of West Ryde, Foreman on November 28 1947, who subdivides and sells Lot 31 to Mary Robertson of Ryde, widow (Vol-Fol: 5981-63). Lot 32 he sells to Elsie May Wilson (Vol-Fol: 6017-128) with a covenant and then this is made smaller as part is sold to Enid Mary Corkery.

Vol-Fol: 7621-214 records resuming Lot b December 18 1958 of previous Lot 10 on Gladstone street, is bought by Bertie Lawrence Egan of Leichhardt, Tram Driver on April 27 1945. This had been owned by William Hamilton Matthews of Sydney, Engineer, who bought Lots 9 and 10 from Woolcott on September 13 1923 (Vol-Fol: 3503-107). 

Plans for community centre at Newport Beach

A scheme whereby all associations and committees in the Newport beach area would combine to assist major community projects, is being planned by members of the Newport Health and Community Council. The council hopes to establish a Baby Health Centre and Children's Library, on land granted to them recently by the Warringah Shire Council. A free pre-school community kindergarten is also being considered. President of the Newport Kindergarten Association, Mrs. L. Chapman, said that the 30 children enrolled in the present kindergarten had to pay fees, but it was hoped to eliminate the necessity for this by the support of different associations, such as the Returned Soldiers' League and Rotary. At present the kindergarten is being held at the Newport Surf Club. Plans for community centre at Newport Beach (1952, November 19). The Sun (Sydney, NSW : 1910 - 1954), p. 32 (LATE FINAL EXTRA). Retrieved from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article230731215 

NEWPORT BAIT FOR LEAGUE PLAYERS

(By Jim Mathers)

Newport Rugby League juniors make history today by announcing big terms for a paid coach and paid players. The announcement is by the club patron, Mr. Ken Ryan. Terms for the paid coach are: £12 for a winning match, £9 for a draw, £6 for a loss, in addition to free insurance against injuries Stronghold Terms for the players will be commensurate with the ability of those who offer their services. Newport plays in the Manly - Warringah Rugby League District, which is fast developing into one of the strongholds of football. 'The time is overdue,' Mr. Ryan said, 'when junior players must be catered for properly. Interested players should contact Mr. Ken Ryan, Newport Hotel. Phone XW9085. NEWPORT BAIT FOR LEAGUE PLAYERS (1954, January 17). Truth (Sydney, NSW : 1894 - 1954), p. 31. Retrieved from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article172053347 

MAIN ROADS ACT, 1924-1951.

Notification of Approval of Governor to Plans of a Proposal for the Realignment (by the Realignment Method of Acquisition) of Portion of Main Road No. 164 (Barrenjoey-road) in the Shire of Warringah under Division 1 of Part Vb of the Main Roads Act, 1924-1951.

IN pursuance of the provisions of section 27e of the Main Roads Act, 1924-1951, The Commissioner for Main Roads, who proposes to cause the alignment of Main Road No. 164 between Pittwater-road (Main Road No, 174) and Bassett-street, Mona Vale and between Beaconsfield-street and Neptune-road, Newport, in the Shire of Warringah, to be realigned pursuant to Division 1 of Part Vb of the Main Roads Act, 1924-1951, and to apply the realignment method of acquisition to the lands affected by such realignment hereby notifies that the plans of the proposal have been approved by His Excellency the Governor, with the advice of the Executive Council, and that such plans (being plans Nos. 164S.284, 164S.288 and 164S.289) may be inspected at the Department of Main Roads, and copies of such plans may be inspected at the Warringah Shire Council Chambers.

Signed and sealed at Sydney, this 11th day of January, one thousand nine hundred and fifty-four.

I, Howard Macoun Sherrard, The Commissioner for Main Roads, have hereto affixed the Official Seal of The Commissioner for Main Roads in the presence of— J. Fleming, J.P. (us.), H. M. SHERRARD. (D.M.R. No. 479-1,693) (1086) MAIN ROADS ACT, 1924-1951. (1954, January 22). Government Gazette of the State of New South Wales (Sydney, NSW : 1901 - 2001), p. 174. Retrieved from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article220288751 

Rules At Beaches

Sir,-On a recent Sunday I visited Newport Beach in my car, and was proceeding towards the public reserve which surrounds the beach when a man in plain clothes stepped in front of the car and informed me that the charge for entering was two shillings

This charge, he said, was made on behalf of the Warringah Shire Council lo enter the "official parking area". I refused to pay, and the attendants weak protest indicated that other motorists had done likewise.

The same arrangement obtained at Bilgola Beach, and a notice was elected on that beach stating that 'surf bathing was 'strictly prohibited between 1 30 p m and 4 30 p m during the progress of a surf carnival

It would be interesting to learn whether there is any law whereby public pleasure grounds are allowed to be appropriated as described above.

D. R. MULLINS, Coogee. Rules At Beaches (1954, March 26). The Sydney Morning Herald (NSW : 1842 - 1954), p. 2. Retrieved from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article18416613 

1955 NSW Rugby League article - they met at Newport Hotel for lunch S G Ball, and may have seen the Newport Oval not yet 'up to scratch'.

At the WSC Meeting held 28/11/55 L W. Jones, Solicitor, (letter dated: 23/11/55), is forwarding documents in connection with completion of the purchase of the rear part of Lot 6 Bardo Road, Newport for inclusion in the Newport sportsground, and requesting that the Council's Seal be affixed to the Memorandum of Transfer containing a reservation of the easement for Mr. Kilsby's septic tank and ancillary covenants thereof.

A Crown Land Aerial of the site are worth looking at by now in this sequence of events:

Newport showing Howells on the corner of Bardo, Seaview and Barrenjoey roads, 1955 - note the 'lagoon' on Newport Oval still

That November 28 1955 Meeting also records:

TENDERS. Demolition of buildings at Lot 14, Bishop Street, Newport, Newport Sportsground. Two tenders only were received - H.W.Jackson, £95; and E.O.Bailey, £21. Resolved, - That the tender of H. W. Jackson for £95 be accepted, subject to prepayment of this amount. (Crs. Quinlan, Corkery) 

The December 1955 meeting records a reversal of the above as:

H. W. Jackson, 5/12/55 stating his tender in connection with the demolition of the building at 11 Bishop Street Newport, was submitted under the impression that he was to be paid for clearing the site and removing all material and therefore withdrawing such tender and requesting refund of his deposit. Resolved, - That this matter be deferred until the next meeting of Council. 19/12/1955 - Item RB - Newport Bowling Club - Erection of weatherboard kiosk on Reserve, Barrenjoey Road, Newport: Cr. Jones reported that an inspection had been made when it was found that this building had already been erected. Cr. Jones moved, seconded by Cr. Corkery, That the building be approved, but that a letter of reprimand be sent to both the Club and the builder for having erected the building without the approval of the Council. An amendment was moved by Cr. McKay, seconded by Cr. Quinlan, that legal proceedings be taken against the Club for constructing the building without approval, and consideration of the application be deferred until the conclusion of such proceedings. The amendment was lost, and the motion carried.

The meeting held 14/5/1956 records a community not happy with council decisions: Re-alignment of Kalinya Street, Newport: Kalinya Cr, Gwynne moved, seconded by Cr. Corkery that the first Street part of the Committee's recommendation be deleted, the motion to read — "That the necessary steps for demolition be proceeded with within a period of three months." This motion was LOST and the recommendation of the Committee adopted. The balance of the Finance Committee's Report was otherwise adopted on the motion of Cr. Hewitt, seconded by Cr.Job. TOWN PLANNING COMMITTEE'S REPORT. The Report of the Town Planning Development Committee, as contained in the Minutes of that Committee's meeting held on 715156, was dealt with as follows:-. —Newport Chamber stating that the Chamber is unanimously opposed to the proposed Newport  resumption, realignment or acquisition of land on the western Shopping side of Barrenjoey Road, Newport  Beach, between Miss Hayes' Area — "Mytoys" shop and Mr. Dunwoodies Pharmacy, as such a project Parking would spoil the alignment and appearance of the immediate Area locality and the cost of the proposal would be in excess of its value' further stating that the Chamber is in agreement with the classification of land on the eastern side of Barrenjoey Road northwards from The Boulevarde as '1 Class A. Residential", making that portion of Newport  Beach a single sided shopping area, and suggesting that the Council consider the acquisition of the south-east portion of this area for parking space; and further contending that the widening of Barrenjoey Road by the Department of Main Roads, together with the suggested zoning on the eastern side would afford substantial parking facilities. Cr, Hewitt moved, seconded by Cr, Corkery, that paragraph of the Committee's recommendation be deleted, and paragraph be adopted; and that the Newport Chamber of Commerce be informed accordingly. This motion was LOST, and the Committee's recommendation adopted, Cr. Corkery recording his vote against it. The balance of the Town Planning Committee's Report was other- wise adopted on the motion of Cr. Quinlan, seconded by Cr. Job.

The meeting held 28/5/1956:

DEPUTY SHIRE CLERK'S REPORT. (a)fleet.... stating that Mr. V. Crawford has requested a name for the 33-ft. road running from Irrubel Road to Crystal Bay, and Street suggests either Elwyn Avenue or Crystal Crescent. Resolved, - That this road be named "Crystal Street" (Crs. Hewitt, Gwynne) 9.(ii) Stating that names are required for four new roads in a subdivision lying between Hillside Road, Newport, and The Outlook: Resolved, - That these roads be named Mariposa Road, Monterey Road, Kanimbla Crescent and Hillslope Avenue

PETITIONS. (a) R. Wallman and 25 other ratepayer/residents of the area adjacent to Crystal Bay, Newport  8/5/56 requesting favourable consideration to the extension of Bardo road from its junction with Nooal Street to Crystal Bay, in order to give access to reach their boats and to provide an entrance from Bardo Road to properties facing that road. Resolved, - That this be referred to the Engineer for report to the Works Committee as to the desirability and cost of such work. (Crs. Simmonds, Hewitt) By Cr. McKay - When will the Church Point parking area be placed before Council? The President stated that he would discuss this matter with the Shire Engineer, information being awaited from the Main Roads Department. By Cr. McKay - What is the position regarding Government Phillip camping area, and when will it be placed before Council again? The President replied that he would give a written reply in due course. By Cr. McKay - Will you have the Ranger take action in respect of trawlers and other craft moored for long periods (days in some instances) at Church Point, Newport and Palm Beach public wharves, and have the matter of erection of notices referred to the Works Committee? The President replied that the Shire Ranger would be instructed to take action in this matter. 

The Meeting held 9/7/1956 records Newport Oval still isn't as it should be yet: 

Proposal by H.E.Solomon for subdivision of Lot 29, Section E, Beaconsfield Street, Newport. Resolved - That the Council adhere to its previous decision that consideration be deferred pending inspection by the whole Council. Newport Progress Association, 2/7/56, stating the Association strongly disapproves of the proposed acquisition of land on the western side of Barrenjoey Road, Newport  Beach, for car parking purposes, and is of the opinion that the land affected is too valuable for such purposes in comparison with other suitable land which could be acquired at much lower costs contending this would be a grave traffic hazard, and that on completion of the main road widening there will be no need for additional car parking facilities. Resolved, - That the Association be informed of the deputation to be received by the Council on 16th July. (Crs. Simmonds, Jones) Item (?) Newport Parents & Citizens Association, 27/6/56 stating the Association is greatly concerned to learn of the proposed parking area in Barrenjoey Road, Newport, whilst the recreation ground adjoining the Health & Community Centre remains in a far from playable condition, and requesting the Council to put into areas operation immediately per Cr.Fisher's personal promise of almost three years ago that the area west of Barrenjoey Road would be a good oval within three years; and suggesting that silt be dredged from Crystal Bay if more filling is required. Resolved, - That this be referred to the Engineer for report as to the cost and question of dredging silt. (Crs, Simmonds, Hewitt) 

The Meeting held 7/8/1956 records problems with the lagoon the council fed into concrete - which may have been part of the problem:  By Cr. Hewitt - Will you arrange for the Chief Inspector to conduct analytical tests on the open channel of the Newport main drainage and to furnish a report thereon to Council at an early date together with recommendations to alleviate the nuisance which obtains in relation to adjacent residents and the general danger to public health? The President replied that this would be treated as a matter of urgency. By Cr. Simmonds - Could the grader be put over the northern end of the Newport parking area to give more parking space? Yes, if considered possible by the Engineer.

Meeting held November 25 1957: Newport Health & Community Centre, 15/11/57,, thanking Council for its 'further financial assistance. ;Received;.

The Newport Children's Library was part of a baby health clinic on the north-west corner of Gladstone St and Barrenjoey Road and opened on 30 October 1954. The Library closed in 1973 after the opening of the new Mona Vale Library in 1972. It then became the much asked for Newport Community Centre until the new one was built at 11-13 The Boulevarde, Newport 

Luncheon by Committee of Newport Children's Library held at home of Mrs Gordon Allman, 28 June 1965 / photographs by Alec Iverson - 28 June 1965 and Newport Community Centre later - nbote the front entranceway has changed

Newport Community Centre in 1988 - council photos - changed again

Newport Community Centre in The Boulevarde, March 2016

The Meeting held August 5th 1958 records:

… Newport Progress Association, 23/7/58, stating it is the opinion of the Association that any plans for a new Shire Hall should be deferred until such time as a referendum is taken on the question of a division of the Shire into two or more Shires, owing to the terrific burden on the ‘A’ Riding Councillors. 41. Moved by Cr. Jones, seconded by Cr. McClelland that the Association be informed that Council has, for a long time, been working under very adverse conditions at the Shire Hall and that it is imperative that a new building or extensions to the existing premises be constructed in the near future. An amendment was moved by Cr. Wilson, seconded by Cr.- Fisher pro forma, that the Association be informed that Council will conduct a referendum before making any decision on the building of a new Shire Hall. This amendment was DEFEATED. The motion was CARRIED, Cr. Wilson requesting his name to be recorded as having VOTED against this motion. (L) Newport Sub-Branch. R.S.L., 23/7/58, stating that the Branch is considering a further Roll for personnel who served in the 2nd World War and in Korea, suggesting that the existing Memorial be moved to a more central position, contending that its present location in the proximity of the hotel is not in the best interests, and requesting that the Council allocate a more suitable site, say in the new recreation reserve being constructed in Pittwater Road, Newport; and should this be agreed to, that consideration be given to naming the playing field 'Newport War Memorial Park' or some similar name. (Note; Council has requested the Acting Engineer to report on the feasibility of moving the Memorial to a site on the Newport sportsground - F/C. 14/7/58). 1 42. resolved, - That the Newport Sub-Branch; R.S.L. be advised of Council's action. 

It's worth noting that the Newport Sub-Branch RSL had their clubhouse in what is today the Newport Rugby Club's clubhouse - details under Extras. WSC's Meeting held on March 31 1959 places in the archives:

Newport Progress Association, 19/3/59, inquiring whether it would be possible for Council to request the Main Roads Department to put the question of widening Barrenjoey Road from Beaconsfield Street to the Newport shopping centre high on the list of priorities. 76. ' Resolved, _That the Association be informed the Council is in sympathy with this request and will do all it possibly can to further it. (Crs. Reynolds, Job) (AF) Newport Progress Association, 19/3/59, pointing out that the public conveniences at the surf sheds are too far away from the shops at Newport Beach, and asking that early steps.be taken to erect conveniences on public land near the main road. 77' Resolved, _That this matter be referred to the Parks and Reserves Committee. (Crs. Reynolds, Job) (AG) Newport Progress Association, 19/3/59, requesting that householders be permitted to throw empty bottles into the Newport tip, and failing that, asking that the garbage collectors be instructed to pick up all bottles, or that the Council provide a receptacle at shopping areas where bottles could be deposited. 78.Resolved, _That-the Association be informed. the Council cannot see its way to agree to] the suggestion for the placing of a receptacle at shopping areas. (Crs. Job, -Reynolds) , (AH) Avalon Progress Association, conveying appreciation for the. courteous and prompt answers to the many and varied requests needing attention. ;Received; (AI) Local Government Departmenti.23/3/59 replying that it is regretted the allocation-of-£105,000 for borrowings by the-Council during 1958/59, cannot be increased.

September 21 1959:

(E) :Boy Scouts Asscn. 1st Newport Group`23/8/59, asking for use of Newport Oval for 1st Newport And-Associated District Scouts for the forthcoming' sports carnival, adding-that this is an annual event in-which all Scout Troops compete and having won the event last year Newport has the right to hold-this important Meeting in this locality. ;Resolved' _That permission be given. (Crs:'_Reynolds/Berry).

Heath Howell's, corner of Bardo and Barrenjoey Rd.s, Newport, NSW, circa 1959 – titled ‘2835-2840. Heath Howell, Bardo Rd, Newport, 1953-58’ from Mitchell Library, State Library of New South Wales and Courtesy Merewether and Bagot, Architects and Builders

Dave Whiteman:

Heath started the dealership and built the Scout Hall next door at the edge of the oval. I bought my first car from Heath in 1969, a 1959 Holden and it cost $175!

The oval was pretty basic back then but I used to cross Barrenjoey Rd, cross the oval and walk to Newport public school back then.

In that photo in the background just where the road narrows on the left there is a two story building. It was back then a Chinese restaurant and the stink was terrible. Was eventually knocked down and an Ampol servo built. On the right just out of view down opposite the Chinese restaurant and set back from the road was an abandoned grand old 1920s villa called “The Lodge”. It was a favourite haunt of some of the local lads who used to entertain their girlfriends there. 

The Ordinary Meeting. 28/3/1960 records the Gazettal of another Reserve on the Newport Loop:

Ingleside Progress Association, 21/3/60 advising that at its last meeting a resolution was passed protesting against the increase in Bridge charges on the Harbour Bridge, and that the Association absolutely disagrees with Warringah Council's endorsement of the increase, and believes that consideration should be given to abolishing toll charges completely not increasing them. 43. Resolved That the Association be advised in terms of , Minute No. 39 above. (Crs.. Job/Fisher), (N) Warringah Federation of Progress Associations, 22/3/60, advising that at its last meeting the Federation decided unanimously to support the request made by ;C; Riding Combined Associations. to Council urging earnest consideration to the adoption of the scheme known as the ''Warringah Mall''; which would no doubt be of great benefit to the whole Shire. (See Minute 60 below).... (R) Department of Lands, 8 /3/1960, notifying that by Gazette 19/2/1960 Council was appointed Trustee of Reserve No. 82181 for Public,-Recreation at Newport. (Note This land is Portion 155, of 25 perches and lies between Beaconsfield Street and Pittwater); Resolved; That the contents of this letter be .. and that it be Council's  policy to keep this reserve clear and in good condition, and that the Shire Clerk and-the Shire' Engineer watch to see that n illegal use is made of it in any way or building erected thereon without Council's consideration or consent. 

Ordinary Meeting, 27/6/1960. Re Item 17 _L. & L.A. Muras, Lots 31/32, Section 5, D.P. 620, Foamcrest Ave., Newport (L414/60). Application for approval, in principle, to erect 3-storey _twelve flats _;C; Class residential flat building. (See Committee's report for detailed introduction of this matter). 21. Resolved, _That this Council approves the application in principle, and requests the Local Government Department to proceed with the revocation of the Residential Proclamation to permit this application to proceed. (Crs. Jones/Fisher). Re Item 19 H.C. Edwards, Lot 6, D.P.10455, Nullaburre Road, Newport Beach (6721/59) _Application to erect two-storey ;C; Class residential TIP:building. (See Committee's report for detailed introduction of this matter). Moved by Cr. Jonesseconded by Cr. Fisher, that this Council approves the application in principle, and resuesta the Local Government Department to proceed with the revocation of the Residential ' 22. Proclamation to permit this application to proceed. DEFEATED. ...

The Ordinary Meeting 19/9/60  records: 19. OLD BARRENJOEY ROAD, NEWPORT - Letter 13/9/60 from Cumberland County Council, requesting Council's views on proposal by Metropolitan Water, Sewerage and Drainage Board to erect an additional reservoir of 2 million gallons capacity adjacent to the existing Newport reservoir. TOWN PLANNER'S RECOMNENDATION: The Cumberland County Council be informed that this Council does not object to the proposal. The above recommendations numbered (1) to (19) inclusive were ‘received’ and dealt with as follows:_re Item 1 _Carter Road Brookvale -. Applicant _owner, J.M. Atlee. Application 14/7/60 for permission to conduct a day nursery on Lot 33 DP 9504 Carter Road. Resolved _that an inspection be made (Councillor Job/ 74., CouncillorTIF6FT. re Item 2 _Recreation Areas _Reports by Riding Councillors, following inspection of recreation areas acouired under Section )33 of the act, as instructed by Council, following Town Planning Development .Committee of 15/8/60.' Resolved. that as regards ;A:1 Riding, steps be taken to investigate whether the Council can dispose of land at corner of Norma and Whale Beach Roads, land being Lot A Coonanga Road, and land at Hudson Parade, Refuge Cove if it is possible to dispose of residue after leaving access to the water; and that Council regards it as essential that other lands listed in the Engineer's Report be retained. (Crs. Brown/Miles). _At this juncture, 10.55 p.m. Councillor Miles left the Meeting. re Item 5 _Hudson Parade, Avalon _Applicant _S. Fox. Letter 25/8/60 requesting permission to install underground fuel tank on Lots 28/29 D.P.13760 Hudson Parade for refuelling, cruiser. 76.Moved by Cr, Fisher, seconded by Cr. Job; that Council refuse this application as being inimical to the interests of the locality and having regard to Council commitments. in ;A; Class Residential area. DEFEATED. re Item 6 _Bona Crescent, Lovett Bay _Letter from West Pittwater Progress Association addressed to the President, regarding possible removal of jetty, adjoining Mrs. Canfield's property, but which is used by the public, and requesting Council to' protect the, interests of the residents in this matter. Resolved _that the*; applicant be advised that Council adheres to its previous decision. Brown/Job). re Item 14 _The Avenue, Newport-Applicant--; owner A.R. Gray. ' Application 9/9/60L,to use proposed 1;01 resub.-0 :-DP'4616.The Avenue-) Newport for a nursing home. , Resolved _That this matter be set down for inspection, (Crs. Brown/Job)._ADOPTION OF RECOMMENDATIONS MADE BY TOWN PLANNER AND ACCEPTED

The Ordinary Meeting. 12/12/1960 records praise of Bert Payne, a founder of the local Scout Group:

Combined Associations of Newport, 29/11/60 _re George Shelley, J.P. and Albert Payne - stating that it is the unanimous opinion of members that these gentlemen, due to their devoted services to this community, and particularly to the Newport Surf Life Saving Club, should be honoured in some way, Mr. Shelley having been an active member of 'the Newport Surf Club and now occupying the position of President of Newport Surf Club and now occupying the position of President of Newport Chamber Of-Commerce, member of Pittwater Rotary etc., and  Mr. Payne being-a Rotarian, one of the founders of the local Scout Group and-At present organising the North Metropolitan Championship Surf Carnival and a valued member of the Newport Surf Club for 17 years Asking Council to give consideration to the following: To name the park or portion of the Park on the Beach Reserve, after Albert-Payne, namely, Bert Payne Park. TO name the roadway near the Park Reserve,:-.George Shelley Drive. and seeking that consideration is given that the matter.be put into effect before the commencement of the North Metropolitan Surf Carnival (Note{ by**Shire Clerk.: Any naming of these Crown reserves should only be done after the consent The Lands Department has been first obtained or Warringah Shire Council. (C) Mr. Warwick Kells, c/_Post Office, Palm Beach, 29/11/60 _I requesting permission for the P.M.G's Department to run a telephone cable from the Beacon Store in Governor Phillip Park to the beach on the Pittwater side, where a submarine cable will then be buried in the sand below water level; adding that the request is in connection with a telephone service at Barrenjoey Lighthouse. Also . stating that the application was recommended by the Police Department, and has been approved by the P.M.G. subject to Council's written concurrence. 46.Resolved;That this matter be referred to the next meeting of the Works Committee with a report thereon from the Engineer. (Crs. Fisher/Bertram.)

During a Special Meeting held 23/1/1961 an expansion of the use of the Childrens Library and Healht Clinic is mooted:

Foamcrest Kindergarten, Newport, 10/1/1961, advising they now have 54 children enrolled and because of the licence limiting the number to 30, they have to be rostered. At present there is £600 in their building fund which has been raised over a period of three years, they pay £6.0.0. per week rent which could be used as a weekly repayment to Council, they have the support of the Combined Associations of Newport in their request for a building to house the kindergarten, and they feel an extension to the existing Baby Health Centre and Children's Library would be most suitable. This letter was supported by an enclosure from the Combined Associations of Newport. Resolved -that this matter be referred to the A Riding: Councillors. (Wade/Brown.)

The Ordinary Meeting, 10/4/1961 records objections to what will become the Beachcomber flats near the beach: 

(E) 37 residents and ratepayers of Newport, re application by Ryan Hotels Pty. Ltd. for permission to erect a Hotel and Motel on Lots 22 and 23 Ross Street, Newport - asking Council to refuse this application as they believe it objectionable on the following grounds: - (1) The proposed development would be contrary to the high residential standard of the surrounding area and is not in accord with the Class A zoning in the Council's local Planning Scheme; (2) The proposed development would cause noise, nuisance and annoyance ,from persons and vehicles resorting to the hotel; (3) The proposed development is adjacent to a public reserve and would detract from the use of such reserve for recreational purposes and relaxation and would injure the nature and proper use thereof; (4) The erection of a hotel and motel on the proposed site would tend to commercialise and to spoil a beautiful place of public resort; (5) The children desiring to have access to the area in general and to the beach in particular, would be brought into contact with the hotel and such of its activities as may be undesirable from this aspect; (6) The proposed development will generate great vehicular traffic which will cause inconvenience and danger having regard to the narrowness of access roads; (7) The site is inadequate and its development is contrary to the public interest. 33.Resolved, - That the petitioners be notified of Council's resolution matter. (Ors. Jones/Bertram.) BUSINESS BROUGHT FOEWARD BY THE PRESIDENT, WITHOUT NOTICE, Letter Brokenre,/3/61 asking permission to place scales capable of weighing in the catches on public wharf at the foot of Queens Parade, Newport. Adding that this would not interfere or inconvenience the users of the wharf, as their vessels would unload, Weigh, record and subsequently return their catches to the craft concerned. The President stated that he had tentatively given permission. 34.Resolved, -That the President's action in granting permission be endorsed during the Council's pleasure. (Crs. Fisher/Jones.) 

The Ordinary Meeting, 1/5/1961:

Newport Rubbish Tip - Provision of Water Supply; estimated Cost £410. 15.Resolved,. _That the Metropolitan Water, Sewerage & Drainage Board be Written to and be advised that one of the objects of Council's intention to extend this watermain as to assist in extinguishing fires which could cause serious damage to the Board's own premises/and to fires which could start on the Board's land which is heavily overgrown with scrub, and that the Council considers the matter to be one of great urgency and the utmost co-operation in this regard would be greatly appreciated. (Crs. Brown/Ellis.) 

The Ordinary Meeting of 13/6/1961 records a found a resolution for the Kindergarten. representatives of the Newport Foamcrest Kindergarten in regard to the transfer or lease of a parcel of land for the establishment of a public kindergarten. The President, speaking for the ;A; Riding Councillors and Councillor Job to whom this matter was referred by Council, stated that he and Crs. Job and Bertram inspected three sites in Newport, found that Part Lot 9 Queens Parade, Newport, measuring 120' x 80' was suitable for the purpose, and recommended that Council form a Section 530A Committee, and this land be used for the purpose of the Foamcrest Kindergarten and for the benefit of Newport. 21. Resolved, _That the President's recommendation be received and adopted. (crs. Bertram/Job.)

The Meeting held August 21 1961 records changes to the huge pipe running out onto the beach will proceed:

1961 Works Programme _Report by Shire Engineer, with regard to 1961 works programme as at 8.8.61. 9.Resolved, _that the ;A; Riding Councillors agree to the further reUEdifr of their Works Programme but that the items to be deleted be left in the hands of the ;A; Riding Councillors to present to the next Works Committee. (Crs. Brown/Wade). re. Item 31. Newport Beach Outfall _Report by Shire Engineer, submitting details of work involved in this job, as requested by Committee, 1.8.61. 10.Resolved; that the Engineer proceed with the preparation of these plans. 

The September 18 1961 records a new home for the Newport Cenotaph instead of Newport Oval:

Newport Sub-Branch, R.S.S. & A.I.L.A.,_14/9/61,(addressed, to the President),_re Newport District War Memorial Special meeting between the President, Councillors. and Members of the Sub-Branch, proposed siting of War Memorial at Trafalgar Park' -submitting a plan which has been approved by Members. Adding that should council favour the plan, work could commence within 4. weeks.: 55.Resolved, _That the plan be approved. and that the Sub-Branch be notified forthwith so-that work can be commenced.

The Ordinary Meeting of 18.12.61 records facilities for Newport Oval are being progressed, and although they will be referred for scrutiny, this council usually chose the least expensive tender:

TENDERS _DRESSING ROOMS AND TOILETS AT NEWPORT OVAL. Resolved, That the tender box be opened and tenders received be endorsed by the President and referred for report. (Crs. Brown/Bertram.) Tenders were received from the following: J.R. Hanrahan £4,960: F. Beckman, £5,760; L. Kaiser, £6,375 and A. West, £6,842.10. 

At the same meeting:

The Blind Book Auxiliary Younger Set, 7.12.61  Requesting permission to hold a 'Newport Jazz Festival' in late January or early February, 1962; anticipating placing two bands at the back of the S.L.S. Clubhouse at Newport in the vicinity of the parking lot and having ln mind using two table-top trucks, placing members of the bands on them, setting out from Manly about 1.00 p.m. on a Sunday, arriving Newport about 2.00 p.m. and staying there until approximately 9.00 p.m. _50. . Resolved _that the Younger Set be advised that approval cannot be, given for such an operation to be carried out on a Sunday but consideration will be given to such request for a Saturday, providing that no amplification' is used,. (Crs. Brown/Bertram). (H) P. Webb. 20 Eloura Ave.. Avalon, addressed to the President, 1.12.61, stating Council has shown great wisdom in closing the road through the Avalon shopping centre and that the re-opening has created dreadful hazard to the increasing number of children attending Avalon Public School. Adding that the Traffic Superintendent should, make the final decision in regard to this matter. ' Resolved -that Mr.. Webb be thanked and a letter be given to this Council's Solicitor*;for use in-legal proceedings if thought advisable.-/(Crs. Fisher/Wade).; ''(I) The Palm Beach  District Citizens Assn. 8.12.61  -notifying; that at a recent meeting of the Association it was resolved that the Shire Council be advised that the Association fully-supports the development of the Barrenjoey Headlands as a Picnic or Recreation Area if, or when, that is contemplated. Resolved; that this item be noted. ...Department of Aciculture 4/12/61,c_re eradication campaign/. designed to stamp out swine fever from pigs _notifying there have „been several outbreaks in the French’s Forest-Terrey Hills area and advising that the Department's Intention is to undertake destruction in these areas using firearms, probably of gauge shot guns wherever practicable or rifles and asking Council to co-operate with the Department in the task;:Adding the Police, Department and the Chief Guardian of Fauna have been contacted, as ,r 'well, as the Kuringai Chase Trust; 

At an Adjourned Ordinary Meeting held 9/3/1962 the minutes record:

(D) P.J. Edwards, 12 Bishop St., Newport and 58 other ratepayers and residents of Newport(addressed to the President), 204 .62 ; Strongly protesting against the erection of toilets and dressing sheds in the corner of the Newport Sports Reserve adjoining the junction of Bardo Road and Bishop Street, Newport, as it is felt that the location selected is most unsuitable and totally unacceptable to immediate ratepayers an residents, and asking that Council immediately review and relocate the position for these buildings. 42. Resolved; That the petitioners be advised that Council considers the location of the toilets in the best position. 

The Ordinary Meeting, held 9/7/1962, records the Newport Community needs a Community Hall ... as the Surf Club only used the hall at weekends in the surfing season. Adding the Association would welcome the opportunity-to discuss this matter with one or more of the elected representatives of A Riding. 31. Resolved, _That the writer be advised that Council knows of no area at Newport for a community hall in the Newport district and it is recommended that the association re-open its negotiations with the Newport Surf Club with a view to the useage of the hall over the surf sheds. (Crs. Brown/Job.) July 9 1962: Newport Progress and Ratepayers Assoc'. (addressed to the President)..,-.: ;4 '-', l5/6/62_re;letter of :31st May. advising that it is not Council’s intention to incorporate a Community Hall in the Kindergarten Building, at Queen’s Parade Newport – advising that it is felt that serious consideration should be given to providing a Community Hall for the use of the people of Newport and again asking Council to consider arranging for the hall over the surf Sheds to revert. to public use

The Ordinary Meeting, held Monday 23/7/1962, records: Newport Beach Reserve Planting. During discussion on this report Councillor Brown asked the President could the matter of planting around the surf club of Newport Beach Reserve be placed on the Parks and Reserves Agenda for tomorrow evening. The President replied in the affirmative. Contract No. 21/61 Bilgola Swimming Pool. During discussion on this report Councillor Brown asked the President for the finishing date of this contract. The President referred the matter to the Shire Engineer who advised that the contractor had had 2 extensions already and the second one had expired. It was thereupon moved by Councillor Wade, seconded by Councillor Jones that the contractor be asked to interview the next meeting of the Works Committee and that he be advised that Council has in contemplation the non-extension of his contract, 31.CARRIED. Bayview Pool. During discussion on this report Councillor Brown moved, that the plans be brought forward to the Parks and Reserves Committee Meeting tomorrow. ...

An Ampol petrol station at Newport is recorded Ordinary Meeting, 7/8/1962 and the tip is being moved: Item 23  -Barrenjoey Road The Boulevarde & Ross Street, Newport-_Applicant owner, Ampol Petroleum Limited. Letter,, 16.7.62, requesting reconsideration of Council' s refusal to permit the erection of a brick Red Cross Hall on part of Service Station site, Iots-D/21 and 39, D.P:184.1-5, Barrenjoey Road, The Boulevards and Ross Street, Newport. 11.Resolved, - That this application be granted. (Crs. Berry/Bertram.) Newport Progress & Ratepayers Assn. addressed to the President, 20.7.62 _stating that it is understood that in the near future the Newport Tip will cease to operate and asking what alternate arrangements will be made for a Tip in Newport. 57. Resolved, that the writers be advised of the location of the new tip. (Crs. Brown/Bertram).

The Meeting held August 20 1962 records:

M) Metropolitan Water Sewerage & Drainage Board, 13.8.62 _advising the board proposes to construct a welded steel plate elevated reservoir of 50,000 gallons capacity on land being acquired by it at the rear of Lots 40/41, D.P.12838, Plateau Road, Newport, as shown on Plan No.159207 and in the future, a surface reservoir of approximately 500,000 gallons capacity together with a small pumping station;for pumping from the surface reservoir to the elevated reservoir will be constructed adjacent to the latter.. Adding the top of the elevated reservoir will be approximately 66 feet above ground level and approximately 32 ft. in diameter; three minor auxiliary fittings, viz; ventilator, handrail and davit will be 18*; 3'6*; and 7'0*; respectively above the height mentioned: Adding both the Department of Civil Aviation and Cumberland County Council have been informed of the Board's proposal. 47. Resolved,_That the Board be congratulated for the work it is about to carry out, and the Board be asked to advise this Council at its earliest possible-convenience of the anticipated time of reticulation of the Plateau Area.

Randall ‘Snowy’ Whiteman, David Whiteman's father, put in a submission to the council that an open space in Newport be named 'Gretel Park' after the yacht and to honour the America's Cup challenge by the Packer family in that year.

Dave explained during his Profile:

''That little park at Ross Street and the Boulevarde, called ‘Gretel Park’, was just overgrown weeds when we first went there in the late 50’s. There was an open drain that used to run through the centre of it and there was no kerb and guttering then. In the early 1960’s when Packer’s yacht Gretel went to contest the America’s Cup, my dad put in a submission that the park should be called ‘Gretel Park’ after the yacht. All those trees around there, the Norfolk Pines, he planted those and they are still there.''

The Warringah Shire Council Meeting held October 2nd 1962 records in its Minutes: 

R.H. Whiteman, 6 The Boulevarde, Newport Beach, addressed to the President, 26.9.62 - placing on record his appreciation of the fine job done by Council in recently completing the kerb and guttering of The Boulevarde, Myola Road and Ross Street, Newport Beach; in completely covering in the existing open drain running across the Park at the intersection of The Boulevarde and Ross Street and in remaking the roadway adjoining this area. Re: small park which is now defined by the new kerb and guttering recently completed (unnamed). Suggesting this park be named 'Gretel Park'. 58. Resolved: That the contents of the letter be noted and the park be named 'Gretel Park'. (Crs. Wade/Brown). 

Gretel Park Newport, Google street maps

The WSC Meeting held October 2nd 1962 also records the sheds at Newport Oval must be close to completion as they missed something vital along the way - younger readers may not know that prior to the installation of good sewerage systems everyone had 'septic tanks which were pumped out by council workers regularly and taken to where the waste could be processed: 

Newport Oval Dressing Sheds: During discussion on this report Councillor Brown asked the President why approval had not been given to the septic tank application( The President replied that he would look into this natter. Resolved, ; That the Shire Engineer's Report No. G62/112 be received and adopted. 

The Ordinary Meeting of October 29 1962 records:

(4) Newport Community Kindergarten notifying Annual General Meeting of 530A Committee will be held on 8.10.62 at Kindergarten's premises, at 8.00.

The November 26 1962 records the kindy needs to be improved:

...to commence building as soon as possible; the present building is well below the standard required by the Child Welfare Department and the Committee fears. the Department will not tolerate the conditions under which they work any longer. Also the increase in the number of children now living in the area has strained accommodation to the limit; they are being forced to turn away children; and it would be a great boon to many residents of Newport if the new kindergarten could be officially opened for the first term in 1963; they would appreciate Council's help in achieving this. The letter added that Mr. Kristenson's quote is approximately £2,000 lower than the next lowest tender owing to the fact that he is a kindergarten parent and is foregoing his usual profit. MOVED by Councillor Wade and SECONDED by Cr. Bertram that it be recorded that this Council considers the erection of the Newport Community Kindergarten is a matter of urgency in view of the evidence placed before it as to the inadequacy of the present accommodation, and in view of the fact that a greater number of children will be enrolled in the coming year and in order to provide proper accommodation the Council accepts the quotation of Mr. D. C. Kristenson for the sum of £7,356; and that the Council enters into a contract with Mr. Kristenson as soon as possible after the acceptance of this tender; and that it be recorded that this quotation was accepted in accordance with the proviso of Clause 6 or Ordinance 23; and that the Shire Clerk be authorised to enter into the covering contract on the Council's behalf; and that the Council accepts the Bank's undertaking to make an advance of £3,000 available to the Section 530A Committee. An AMENDMENT was moved by Cr. Brown and seconded by Cr. Wilson; that the Newport Community Kindergarten be advised that Council regrets that in view of the disparities, discrepancies and the problems arising out of the Local Government Act that this matter should be deferred and brought forward to the first Finance Committee Meeting in 1963, at which time at least three members of the Committee, together with the Architect, be invited to be in attendance to discuss and finalise this matter; and that tenders be called by the architect forthwith and submitted to this Council. 49. This Amendment was CARRIED, and on being submitted as the motion was again CARRIED; Councillors INEFFY, Ellis and Wade requested that their names be recorded as being-opposed to this motion. _(F) .H. Wilshire Webb & Son, Solicitors, 20.11.62 _Forwarding for completion under seal: (1) Contract for the said of land by Warringah Council to Mackellar Council for £17,500 of 5 Acres of its Dee Why West land on the corner of Dympna Street and Middleton Road referred to in survey plan as tat 1. (2) Contract of Sale by Mackellar Council to Warringah Council for £8,000 of Lots 13/14 Section 5 having a frontage of 132' to Winbourne Road, and 91, to MitcheIlRoad, Brookvale. (3) Agreement between Mackellar and Warringah Councils covering the payment of £5,000 by Warringah to Mackellar for such 'alterations.-. and additions as have been made to the: premises adjoining the Shire Hall out of the funds of Mackellar County Council*;and_Warringah Council's former elettricity works trading fund, a consideration being the granting of vacant possession in favour of Warringah and to complete the contract regarding the Dee Why, West

Meeting held February 10 1964:

The following tenders were received: Use of Football Grounds 1st April to 31st August, 1964. 

Manly-Warringah District Rugby League Football Club:_

Mona Vale Oval £25 

Newport oval 15 

Griffith Park, Collaroy 25 

Lake Park 25 

Harbord Park 25 

Beverley Job Park 20 

Allambie Heights Reserve. E20. 

Manly Warringah Junior Baseball Association:_

Griffith Park, Collaroy £25 

John Fisher Park _South Eastern Corner £5. 

Curl Curl Youth Club _John Fisher Reserve L10.10.0 

Warringah Junior Rugby Union:

Inman Reserve £2 _Saturdays and Sundays 

Griffith Park £1  Saturdays only 

Allambie Heights Reserve £1 Saturdays only 

Collaroy Plateau Park £1 Saturdays only 

Collaroy Plateau Youth Club: Collaroy Plateau Park: £10 

Manly Warringah Soccer Association: 

Forestville Area ‘8’ £20 

Dee Why Oval £20 

French's Forest Oval £20 

North Narrabeen Reserve£20 

Allambie Heights Reserve £20 

Newport Junior Sports Club: Newport Oval £25 per year 

Correspondence Category A _O.M. 22.3.65

G.T.Wardrop, 106 Grandview Drive, Newport Beach and 14 others, 5.2.65. requesting that they be included in the new Postal District of Bilgola Plateau. To effect this they suggest the south east boundary be altered to include lot 355 along Crown of Newport Reserve to Lot 55, thence aoross Grandview Drive to in_clude lot 40. 37 Resolved,_that this matter be referred to Mr. Wentworth. (Crs. Mill/Wilson). (A5) Avalon Junior Sports Clubs 28.2.65 _asking Council to make representations to the Department of Education to ascertain if the Club could lease the ground at North Avalon for the use of sports. 38 Resolved,_that the Club be advised to refer the matter to the Department of Eduction. 

WSC's May 4th 1964 Meeting:

(429) Mona Vale Sports Club, 23.4:64, addressed to the President,' stating that at a meeting of representatives of a number of Organisations held on 22.4.64 held at the Pittwater R.S.L. Club, it was decided to request Council to receive a deputation to discuss the future of. Kitchener Oval and the sporting facilities necessary to the youth of the District.' Organisations represented were Mona Vale Chamber of Commerce, Public School and Sports Club; Narrabeen.Girls High Scheel, Pittwater R.S.L. Sub Branch and Rotary Club; Manly Warringah Junior Rugby League football club and Cricket Association, Narrabeen Boys High School P. & C. Association. 83.' Resolved, That the representatives be invited to-attend the next' Ordinary meeting of Council. (Cie. Beokman/Maver).

The meeting held on the May 25 1964 notes:

Long Reef Rugby Union Football Club, 19.5.64 _tendering as follows for the use of Newport Oval every Saturday afternoon from 1 p.m. to 5 p.m. until the end of September. Adding the fee will be paid by the Metropolitan Sub-District Rugby Union Organisation. 63 Resolved, that approval be granted 'until the end of August at a fee of £10. (Crs. Gold/Adcock). . 

During the WSC meeting held on November 30 1964 the council approves an opportunity that would persist for decades - the use of the oval for jazz and folk festivals - although the jazz festival would outlast the folk ones:

The Troubador, 155 New South Head Road, Edgecliff, 12.11.64, making application to use the Newport Cricket Oval the second week in January to hold a Folk Singing Festival similar to the Jazz Festival held annually at Newport, M.B.A. Resolved, That the application be approved subject to the same conditions imposed, and set out in Min. 46

The newspapers of then provide a few insights:

Music program, Newport Folk festival, Newport Oval, paper / metal, maker unknown, Newport, New South Wales, Australia, 1965 - Obtained by Bob Yates when he was promoting folk concerts, and kept for his personal collection. The Newport Folk Festival in January 1965 at Newport Oval on the northern beaches of Sydney was a landmark Australian folk music event. Mounted as part of Trade Union Youth Week, the festival showcased Australia's top contemporary folk acts to a large, enthusiastic audience. Organized professionally with the support of the Australian Elizabethan Theatre Trust, the event aimed to give a solid platform to the rising folk movement Down Under. The 16-page concert program featured some of the brightest stars of the 1960s Australian acoustic scene. The lineup included:

• Marion Henderson
• Gary Shearston
• Tina Lawton
• Martin Wyndham-Reade
• Lenore Somerset
• Jeanne Lewis
• The Wayfarers

The performances were compered by well-known actor and broadcaster Leonard Teale – information, Powerhouse Museum, Sydney

Organiser of folk festival

A young community personality is prime mover of a new venture in the entertainment business.

He is Brian Nebenzahl, publisher and from time to time concert promoter, who is associated in a group titled Newport Festivals, which from January 8 will present an all-Australian Folk Festival at Newport Oval, near Sydney’s Newport Beach.

The Festival will be held over three days (five concerts) in the big theatre tent which the Elizabethan Trust used for its presentation of Henry V at Rushcutters Bay.

MR. B. NEBENZAHL

Brian Nebenzahl, who publishes the programs for several city theatres, has been interested in other concert promotions, including a Folk Singing concert and Sydney’s first “Hootenannie” —both at the Town Hall.

He is Organiser of the Newport Folk Festival, which will include seminars, films. lectures, as well as the five public concerts. Organiser of folk festival (1964, December 11). The Australian Jewish Times (Sydney, NSW : 1953 - 1990), p. 12. Retrieved from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article263104073 

Newport folk | concert

THE Newport Folk Festival held last weekend gave another crashing emphasis to the  demand of a large section of Australian youth for a genuine culture. The week-end concerts were packed and on Saturday night over 2000 well-behaved young people filled the tent to capacity. Seasoned performers at the concert like Marian Henderson, Glen Tovcasetti, Martin Wyndham-Reade and Brian Mooney excelled themselves.  New singers like Jean Lewis made impressive "debuts". The quality and range of the songs extended from Ireland of 200 years ago right round the world through the intervening years and up to Gary Shearston's present-day song about conscription in Australia. "The Galahs", the three singing Grivas brothers (who were far from being "galahs" at singing) gave the show a strong link with the traditional Australian ballads. The audience, which joined in choruses and hand-clapping rhythms, demonstrated marked appreciation for protest songs about burning modern problems like World peace and racial equality.- -D.K. Newport folk concert (1965, January 13). Tribune (Sydney, NSW : 1939 - 1991), p. 11. Retrieved from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article236351514 

Australian jazz musicians will get their biggest boost ever , in January next when promoter Brian Nebenzahl will present a three day, five concert Festival of Jazz.

The Festival will be staged from January 7 at Newport Oval in the Tent Theatre which was used early this year for the Newport Folk Festival.

BRIAN NEBENZAHL

Over one hundred musicians have been engaged to appear at the Newport Festival of Jazz and the program is designed so that all jazz enthusiasts and the public in general will get enormous value.

Each concert will present Traditional jazz, Mainstream and Modern jazz. Certain relatively little-heard groups are being specially re-formed to play at the Festival.

The presentation will be fully professional in the Big Tent and will not be “in the round”. Special emphasis is being placed on the accoustics and the tent is expected to create a unique atmosphere. Jazz (1965, December 24). The Australian Jewish Times (Sydney, NSW : 1953 - 1990), p. 2. Retrieved from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article262958469 

Folk singer Marion Henderson. Mona Vale, 5 September 1964 / photographs by David Cumming

The bulletin. Vol. 88 No. 4479 (8 Jan 1966). Article - A Good, Cheap Night Out identifier at: http://nla.gov.au/nla.obj-702090857 

Kerry Male and Ray Price at Newport Jazz Festival, December 1965 / photographs by David Cumming at: Kerry Male and Ray Price at Newport Jazz Festival, December 1965 / photographs by David Cumming  - Subjects: Pix (Sydney, N.S.W.). and courtesy State Library of NSW

The March 1st 1965 meeting records a shift from rugby union towards rugby league at the oval:

Use of Sports Grounds. - Manly Warringah District-Rugby League football. Club, .2.. Mona Vale Oval:£25; Griffith Perk, Collaroy £.25;; Lake Park, Narrabeen £25; Harbord Park'£20:' Newport Oval £25; Beverley Job Park £20.

Crown Land Aerial of Newport Oval in 1965 - note the change sheds site - no 'kiosk' yet - the cricket pitch and practice nets are visible too; between the approved sets of flats

The Minutes of the Ordinary Meeting 24.5.65 record some of factors the council had to deal with in protecting local reserves:

By Cr. Beckman: Will the Engineer investigate the damage at Avalon Reserve allegedly caused by circus elephants and report to the Parks and Reserves Committee on cost of restoration? I will refer it to the Shire Engineer for report. 

WSC's April 4 1966 meeting records:

Minutes 0.M. 26.4.66. (A1) Mona Vale Progress Association 13.4.66 ; drawing council's attention to the dangers faced at present by pedestrians crossing Pittwater Road in the area between Mona Vale Road and Barrenjoey Road Junction. Asking council to arrange with the Main Roads Board for at least this section of the highway to be provided with a median strip as a safety zone and also widened if necessary. Adding this danger will be increased as a result of the development of Kitchener Park as an Oval and also the opening of the Mona Vale Hotel. 45. Resolved,; That council consults with the Department of Main Roads to provide a median strip and safety zones between Mona Vale Road, Pittwater and Barrenjoey Road junction through the shopping area, aid after council receives this report that it be referred to the Transport Safety Committe. (Crs. Knight/ Beckman). Newport District Chamber of Commerce, 17.4.66 ; requesting council to supply them with a copy of the A Riding Works Programme for 1966, as soon as it is available. 48. Resolved,; that this information be supplied to the Chamber of Commerce. (Crs. Bridges/Miles).

The June 6 1966 records why Newport Oval had a second Folk Festival later this year - Folk music was IT! - and pony rides mooted for Newport Oval:

3 _Use of building at Lake Park Camping area by Folk Arts Club. Moved by Cr. Mill, seconded by Cr. Beckman, That the Shire Engineer prepare a report diving estimated cost of repairing the building and bringing it to a safe condition for submission to the next meeting of 35. the Parks and Reserves Committee. DEFEATED. Note: A notice of rescission on item 33 of the Parks and Reserves Committee's Report 31.5.66, signed by Crs. Mill, Beckman and Lindsay, was handed in prior to the conclusion of the meeting re: Item 42 _Newport Oval - Use for pony rides. 36.Moved by Cr. Bridges, seconded by Cr.Watts, That the Committee's recommendation be adopted, with the addition of: ''and that any damage done to the Oval be repaired to the satisfaction of the Shire Engineer''; DEFEATED. Adoption of Parks and Reserves Committee's Report 31.5.66. 37.Resolved, That the report of the Parks and Reserves Committee, 31.5.66, as written, be adopted. (Crs. Knight/Watts). 

The October 10 1966 records council's dealings with one of Australia's best ever photographers and a Newport regular for decades by then - visit:   Max Dupain of Newport: Pittwater Photographer 

A3) J.R. Wilkins & Co., Solicitors, forwarding form of Agreement for execution under seal: Grant of Easement, Calvert Parade, Newport-Dupain.

The April 10 1967 records the plight of the Mona Vale Raiders, reformed after the Mona Vale Sports groups went their sperate ways, and needing a home ground and clubhouse as soccer had taken over Kitchener Park, where it is still payed today. Initially the council offered what we today call 'Patricia Giles Reserve' (then to be called 'Bangalow Reserve') - on Bassett Street or Bangalow Avenue - the original 'deal' between the council and the developers ruled that out:

Special Report by Acting Shire Clerk. 6. 10th April, 1967. ITEM 28 _LOT 33, SECTION A, D.P.6195, SURFVIEW ROAD, MONA VALE, ZONED 'OPEN SPACE' Deferred from Parks & Reserves Committee meeting 6.3.67 pending inspection. The Valuer-General's Department has advised that the current market value with vacant possession of Lot 33 is $10,000. The letter from the Managing Agents stated: ''We have been instructed by the Executors of the Estate of the late F.P.H. Fewtrell to offer this property to the Council for the sum of $9,000. Although the property is at present tenanted under. a 5A lease at $17 per week, the property would be offered either with the existing tenant in occupation, or with vacant possession. According to your records, the property is in a zoned ;recreational area; and we understand the Council owns the adjoining property. We also note the V.G. in 1962 was $11,500 and under the circumstances feel the Council should view the resumption at $9,000 as particularly good value''.; The Parks & Reserves Committee recommended that this item be referred back to the Finance Committee for further consideration. RECOMMENDATION: That this matter be referred for consideration in conjunction with-the 1968' estimates.

The Parks and Reserves Committee recommended ;that the following action be taken with regard to questions by members of the Committee:.. (a) A quotation be obtained from Mackellar County Council for floodlighting French's Forest Community Hall and submitted to the Ordinary Meeting on 10th April; (b) A quotation be obtained from Mackellar County Council, and submitted to Ordinary Meeting on 10th April, for transferring the floodlights from Dunbar Park to the old field at Hitchcock Park for this season, in view of Council's decision to rest Dunbar Park. (c) The Parks and Reserves Supervisor be asked to attend the next mating of the Parks and Reserves Committee with suggestions for beautification of one reserve in each Riding, and estimated cost of same, the Parks and Reserves Supervisor to consider in his suggestions Harbord Park, Collaroy Beach north of Arlington Hall and Newport Oval. (d) That report be submitted to the next meeting of the Parks and Reserves Committee on estimated cost of providing either two or four courts on Allambie Heights Reserve and at North Balgowlah. (e) That the Engineer report on affect of stormwater drainage on wall of No. 1 Allen Avenue and Council's Solicitors be requested to expedite transfer of the beach reserve to Council.; RECOMMENDATION. (a) that a quotation be obtained from Mackellar County Council rating French's Forest Community Hall; and for (b), (c) and (d) no further action be taken; (e) to be dealt with by Engineer administratively.

By May 8 1967 the ponies were being sent south to Warriewood and more space for cars was being sought:

Newport Oval. Signs prohibiting horse riding erected. BARE CREEK GARBAGE DISPOSAL AREA _Comments. Council carried out partial piping of natural watercourse on the garbage tip during 1966, but a further 150 lin.ft. of 36' dia, pipes are now required to complete piping to western end of the disposal area. Estimated cost, $1,300.00. Engineer's Recommendation. That $1,800.00 be voted to carry out additional piping of natural watercourse in Bare Creek Garbage Disposal Area. 42. ROBERTSON ROAD, NEWPORT BEACH _Department of the Interior, regarding proposed licence to Council over part of the Newport Beach Post Office site for car parking, and Council's request that requirement for sealing of the area be deleted, advising that the matter has been reconsidered, but it has been decided that the site may only be available subject to Council accepting all conditions; also that, if Council wishes to proceed, an assurance can only be given that the land will be available for car parking until 31st December, 1968, after which date the licence would carry over on a month to month basis. Engineer's Recommendation. That the Department be informed that Council is not prepared to seal this area. 

The follow up for cars came in June 19 1967 and became a delay:

NEWPORT BEACH RESERVE PARKING _Newport District Chamber of Commerce, requesting that, pending finalisation of proposed parking area in Foamcrest Avenue, Council provide an area at the southern end of Newport Beach Reserve for parking by shoppers. Comments. This area was previously submitted to Council for possible development, but was not proceeded with. The estimated cost of paving the area, together with line marking and external fencing is $3,500. The proposed parking area forms part of Bert Bayne Park, which is a Crown Reserve. RECOMMENDATION. That, as available funds for works this year have been allocated, the proposal be listed for consideration when preparing the 1968 works programme.

The July 4 1967 records the Breakers need more space and here too the council was unable to allocate funds - yet:

NEWPORT OVAL  Newport Junior Rugby Football Club, requesting erection of storage shed at Newport Oval for storage of gear and jumpers and soft drink bottles. Comments. Estimated cost to erect storage shed, 10' x 10', with 4 ½ ’ brick walls, slab roof to match dressing sheds/toilets, near eastern end of dressing sheds and with shelving 2' wide to all walls except door wall, $800. RECOMMENDATION. That this work be listed for consideration when preparing the 1968 works programme. , P&R 3. SEAFORTH OVAL Manly council, advising expenditure on this Oval up to 8th May was $40,045.96, of which this Council's share was $15,012.98, suggesting carrying out of the following further works further minor underscrubbing; treatment of embankment batters; completion of grass planting; grass cultivation; final top-dressing; completion of parking area fencing; construction of cricket pitches; construction of access from Wakehurst Parkway and construction of dressing pavilion and toilets. Comments. The total estimated cost of these works, together with works as executed 7.7$11,726, of which this Council's share would be $33,963. Council set aside $30,000 in 1966 and $6,000 in 1967. RECOMMENDATION. That Council agrees to the additional work being undertaken. P&R 4. BUNGAN BEACH SURF CLUB BUILDING _Manly-Warringah Branch S.L.S.A. of Aust., supporting request by Bungan Beach for the provision of funds for the construction of a clubhouse at Bungan Beach. Comments, Amended plans have been submitted by the Club, indicating that the estimated cost of construction of stage 1 of the proposed building (ground floor only) is $8,800, which it is proposed to finance as follows _contribution by Club, $2,000; loan from ;Herald; gear fund, $2,000, leaving a balance of $4,800 to contributed by Council. RECOMMENDATION, That the Bungan Beach S.L.S. Club be advised that, as all funds have been committed for the current year, Council cannot contribute towards the project at this stage, but will further consider the matter when preparing its 1968 Estimates, 

The Report by Shire Engineer of 25th, September, 1967 states, among a very long list of works done:. Cheryl Crescent Reserve -Open cut off drain installed across face of embankment. 

The November 20, 1967 records:

NEWPORT COMMUNITY KINDERGARTEN _Kindergarten Committee, requesting construction of a shade awning over portion of existing concrete deck area adjoining kindergarten building on western side. Gemsents. Estimated cost to cover an area 20' x 15' over the entrance on the west wall of the building, using timber rafters and battens, P.V.C. sheeting and pipe stanchions and including painting and drainage, $500. RECOMMENDATION. That an item provision of shade awning at Newport Community Kindergarten, at an estimated cost of $500 be listed for consideration when preparing the 1968 works programme.

1969 Newport U6's at Newport Oval.  Tim Bristow(coach) on Left. Wazza (manager) on Right. Back Row: #2 Paul Martin, #6 Cam Miles  Middle Row: #1 Michael Johnstone Front Row: Could be Steve Lidbury blond hair bottom row or one of the Moses boys ? John in centre holding ball. Photo: Cam Miles

REPORT OF THE SHIRE ENGINEER SUBMITTED TO THE ORDINARY MEETING OF W5. WARRINGAH SHIRE COUNCIL HELD ON 2nd JANUARY, 1968:

Ina. 1968 REVENUE & LOAN WORKS PROGRAMME (CONT.). PARKS AND RESERVES. LOCATION WORK AMOUNT Reserve for future voting $10,000 Narrabeen Lagoon Levelling & greasing reclamation- south shore (transferred from 1967 programme) 5,000 Newport Oval Enclose playing area by fencing 1,000 Erect storage shed 1,000 Kitchener Park Filling & grassing southern section 5,000 Iluka Park Construction of toilet block 6,000 John Fisher Park Dressing shed and toilet block 10,000 Narroy Park Stormwater drain 2,400 Forestville Oval Fence Melwood Avenue frontage 700 Lionel Watts Park Topdressing, grassing, water supply 10,000 Church Point Parking Area - seal near Pasadena 1,500 Provision of boat harbour 5,000 Bayview Reclamation in vicinity of B.Y.R.A. (contribution by D.M.R. $10,000 additional) 6,000 Lakeside Reserve Enclose playing hid 1,200 Allambie Heights Oval Floodlighting 500 Beverley Job Park Connecting Scouts' Hall and ova buildings to sewer 700. BEACHES & RESERVES. Bayview Pool. Cleaned on 3.1.68 Warriewood Beach. Steps repaired. Paradise Beach. Catwalk to baths repaired. New life buoy box & buoy fitted to post on beach. Avalon Beach Reserve. 18000 sq.ft. turf laid, turf cut from North Narrabeen polo fields. Careel Bay Reserve. Turf replaced and 1I2 yds. of top soil spread. Florence Park. Stone monument erected. Narrabeen Street Reserve. 200 yds. filling spread and levelled. Avalon Golf Links. Maintenance attention given. Narrabeen Lakes. Dredging in progress. Stony Range Reserve. Maintenance attention given. 

In January 30 1968: Laneway cleared, Bishop Street, Newport. Stormwater drain cleared Surf view Road, Mona Vale. 

February 12 1968:

FEES FOR USE OF PLAYING FIELDS - 1ST APRIL TO 31ST AUGUST, 1968.

The use of playing fields on Saturdays, Sundays and public holidays is allocated on the recommendations of the Manly-Warringah Sporting Union. The fees are to be determined by Council. RECOMMENDATION: That the following fees be charged:- $

Garden Street Reserve, N.Narrabeen. 20 2 fields. North Narrabeen Reserve. 120 New toilets and dressing sheds - 3 fields. Kitchener Park. 80 Toilets and dressing shads.. 2 fields. Mona Vale Reserve. 20 Newport Oval. 40 Dunbar Park. 20 Hitchcock Park 40

The February 24 1968 meeting records more works done:

Warriewood Beach. New box line stand erected. Paradise Baths. Steps alongside springboard repaired temporarily and will be replaced with new set made of galvanised piping. John Fisher Park. Fencing repainted. 45 yds. of top dressing spread and all basketball fields marked out. Lakeside Reserve, Painting of new fence around oval completed. Trafalgar Park, Seats and fences repainted. Dearin Reserve, Seats and fences repainted. Newport Oval New fencing painted, together with seats and toilets. Florence Park. Plaque fixed to bush stone memorial. Careel Bay Playing Fields Approximately 180' of new park rail fence erected. Mona Vale Oval, All worn areas on playing field re-turfed and area topdressed, using 7000 sq.ft, of turf and 110 yds. of soil. 

The Meeting held March 25 1968 in its Engineers report lists: Newport Oval. Storage shed commenced. John Fisher Park. Erection of toilets and dressing sheds commenced 

The April 22 1968 lists more works in the Newport Oval 'campus' area:

Dunbar Park. Area cleared for relocation of Scout Hall. Greendale Crescent Reserve. Area cleared and trimmed, 100 yds. soil spread. Bilgola Reserve. Area cleared and trimmed in vicinity of No. 1 The Serpentine. Michelle Road Reserve. … additional goal posts being erected at Hitchcock Park (5 sets basketball); Warriewood Beach. Internal walls of men's dressing room repainted to obscure writing. Warriewood Depot. Flyscreens made and fitted to windows of Engineer's Office. Toilet block repaired and repainted internally. Brookvale Depot. Storage racks built in yard store shed. Girl Guides Hall, Narrabeen. Broken glass replaced. Newport Baby Health Centre. Broken glass replaced and new lockset fitted to rear door. French's Forest Baby Health Centre; Notice board and poster frames made and fixed to internal walls. Macpherson Street, Warriewood. Timber cottage at corner of Warriewood Road demolished and material stored at Cromer Depot. 

REPORT OF THE SHIRE ENGINEER SUBMITTED TO.THE ORDINARY_MEETING OF WARRINGAH SHIRE COUNCIL HELD ON 17th JUNE, 1968:

Dunbar Park; Two sets of male and female toilets erected on north western corner of oval for use pending completion of toilets attached to Community HaIl. Timber saps erected at entrance to Boy Scouts' Hall. Hitchcock Park. Two sets of temporary toilets erected on south-western corner of Park and shed erected for dressing facilities. Whale Beach. Repairs to brick piers under dressing shed completed. Box line and stand replaced at northern end of beach. Mona Vale Beach. Rusted iron stripped from roof of shelter shed at northern end of beach and material on order for replacement of same. Newport Surf Clubhouse. 8 galvanised tie bolts fitted to timber steps on beach side of building to replace rusted ones. Other repairs in hand. Newport Rock Pool Dressing Shed. 8'; besser block Wall repaired and door and jamb to swimming clubroom repaired. Warriewood Beach Dressing Sheds. Pedestal pan in gent's toilet replaced by plumber. Four light fittings repaired by Mackellar County Council. Warriewood Beach Surf Clubhouse, Broken windows on eastern side of building and double doors on north side repaired. North Narrabeen Surf Clubhouse. Storm damage to roof repaired. Two fibro sheets and ridging replaced. Avalon Golf Links. Roof tiles on clubhouse and kiosk replaced following Storm damage. 460' of park rail fence adjoining Barrenjoey Road repaired and repainted. Two cane chairs replaced in ladies' rest room and other requests being attended to.

July 15 1968:

Newport Oval, Soil spread and general maintenance attention given. Wilshire Park. Clearing in progress.

August 12 1968:

VILLAGE RESERVE NEWPORT - Mackellar County Council, requesting Council's approval to construct a 33,000 volt sub transmission line across the Village Reserve to link Newport with North Avalon and cater for the rapidly increasing load in the peninsular area. Comments. The route would follow Burke Street at southern foot of the headland, thence through the village reserve adjacent to existing utilities areas, passing the reservoir at extension of Wollombi Road and rejoining Barrenjoey Road at foot of quarry reserve on northern side of headland. The County Council states that, because of the topography of the headland, very little of the line would be readily visible to the casual observer and only minor clearing of timber and other vegetation would be required. The only acceptable alternative route available to lay this transmission line would be to follow Barrenjoey Road itself between Newport and Avalon and, as this would involve the location of tall power poles on both sides of the roadway, it was rejected in favour of the proposed route. RECOMMENDATION. That Mackellar County Council be given approval to lay the proposed 33,000 volt sub transmission line across the village reserve at Newport', provided clearing of natural vegetation is kept to a minimum and subject to the concurrence of the Lands Department. 

November 17, 1971:

81.Could the Parks and Reserves Engineer report to the next Parks and Reserves meeting on the cost of planting suitable trees around the perimeter of Newport Oval? I will ask for a report to be provided.

Worth noting is what is being chased up in the March 13 1972:

By Cr. Dawson -. 83.Could the engineer advise when the warning notices of koala bear crossings will be erected at Newport as directed by Council? I will have a report made urgently. 

More following up and following through in the August 28 1972 meeting - and a clubhouse for Kitchener park sports players:

77.Could a plan of tree planting and drainage of Newport Oval be provided for the next Parks and Reserves Committee? I will ask the Engineer to make a report. KITCHENER PARK, MONA VALE. Note: Cr. Dawson reported at the meeting of the Committee that the Pittwater R.S.L. Club have been offered a cottage at Dee Why, owned by the Dee Why Bowling Club. Also Shire Engineer's Report No. A72/218 - Proposal for Removal of a weatherboard Cottage from Dee Why Bowling Club and Relocation at Kitchener Park, Mona Vale. Also Miscellaneous Correspondence Category A, A11 and A12 - Letters from Dee Why Bowling Club and Pittwater R.S.L. Youth Club respectively. 30.Resolved - That investigation proceed immediately as to whether or not the time for removal of this building can be extended for a further fortnight; that the A Riding Councillors meet the Engineer immediately this is known and make a recommendation to next Monday's Finance Special Meeting so that if necessary, action can proceed within that fortnight for the removal of the building; and that the Engineer having inspected the building, draft a sketch plan for submission to the Department of Lands for their approval and report on the cost of brick veneering the building to bring it up to the standards of the Chief Secretary's Department. (Crs. Hoy/Dawson)

The June 4 1973 records:

LAND ADJOINING PORTER RESERVE, NEWPORT. Letter, 29.5.1973, the Hon. J.G. Beale, Minister for Environment Control, advising that due to heavy Ministerial commitments he is not able to meet the Parks and Reserves Committee; however, if -Council would like to make a further submission in writing he will be happy to have it fully considered. 81. Resolved _That a further letter be sent to the Minister advising that the matter is extremely urgent and that a copy of the letter be forwarded to the Premier, Messrs. Viney, Healey, Mackellar. and Wentworth advising-of the dilemma and seeking their urgent assistance in the matter. (Crs. Dawson/Beckman) 

The July 16 1973 records:

LAND ADJOINING PORTER RESERVE NEWPORT (BARRENJoEY ROAD) Moved by Cr. Begaud in pursuance of notice, seconded by Cr. Anderson, That Minute. No. 42 of the Town Planning Development Committee meeting 2.7'1973 reading-:’That Council seek rezoning by sec. 3421 action of the residential lots to proposed Open Space, and at such time as this rezoning takes place, Council considers negotiations on the method and the time of remuneration to the Crown in respect of this property. Council indicate to the State Planning Authority that at this stage it is unable to acquire the land but would like to enter into

A Special meeting held December 7 1974:

Item 41 _Acquisition of land adjoining Porter Reserve, Newport; $170,000. THAT. this item listed at $170,000 be not included in the Estimates. …. Item 46 - Publishing of History of Manly-Warringah. 56.THAT this item be included in the Estimates at an expenditure of $3,000 and an estimated income of $2,475. 

Ordinary Meeting, Monday, 23rd May, 1977:

1.1 (Cont'd) B. PARKS. RESERVES AND BEACHES. 1. NORTHERN DISTRICT. Work was completed on Epworth Park (drainage); Hordern Park, Wilshire Park, Porter Reserve, Newport Oval, Hitchcock park, North Narrabeen Reserve and lake Park Oval (erection or steel gate.). Fences repaired around sand dune stabilisation areas at Mona Vale and Avalon. 

The May 30 1977 records damage to the oval and trying to get those who did this to pay for repairs: 

NEWPORT OVAL. METROPOLITAN WATER, SEWERAGE & DRAINAGE BOARD RESTORATION. (File 711/i Report NO. A77/142 (S/E) The Metropolitan Water, Sewerage & Drainage Board has disputed payment of a restoration charge of $1,222.67 in respect of a cricket wicket at Newport Oval. After several discussions on the matter, the Board has offered an 'Act of Grace' payment of $450.00, subject to Council executing a Deed of Release. There appears to be little doubt that the damage was caused by the Board's employees and actual restoration cost amounted to $1,222.67. However, there could be difficulty in proving the case and the high restoration cost is due to wet weather which occurred at the times. For these reasons it is considered the offer should be accepted. RECCOMMENDATION. That Council accept the offer made by the Metropolitan Water, Sewerage & Drainage Board in respect of the restoration of the cricket wicket at Newport Oval; and approval be given for execution under seal of Deed of Release. 

The meeting held on 17th October, 1977 notes:

1.8 TOP DRESSING OF PLAYING FIELDS (File 611) Listed at the direction of the President. An amount of $30,000 was provided in the 1977 Estimates for topdressing of playing fields and a further $30,000 was voted on 29.8.77 from anticipated savings in maintenance. These funds have been allocated on the basis of $20,000 per district. At the end of the football season, all playing fields were rr'.v3ted and fertilised and topdressing operations are currently in hand. Because of the cost of Windsor soil ($6.90 per tonne delivered), it is only possible to topdress a small percentage of the total number of playing fields in each district with the funds available. The playing fields schedules for topdressing in each district are:_ NORTHERN Careel Bay park 1 and 2 (Completed) Boondah Road Reserve I and 2 Hitchcock Park (In hand) Terrey Hills Oval, Kitchener Park Porter Reserve North Narrabeen Reserve; Dunbar Park, Newport Oval. BUILDING & SERVICES. 1. CONSTRUCTION. Work is in progress on Nolan Reserve Kiosk, mobile caravans, new bus shelter for Mona Vale, Newport Beach Inspectors Rooms, Harbord Beach Power Boatshed Extension, Bonnie Doon Wharf (steps), Bennet's Wharf (buffer pile) and demolition of derelict shed at Scotland Island.

By November 14 1977:

The Shire Engineer report to the next Reserves Committee clarifying expenditure of funds at Beacon Hill Oval. (5) The matter of $300 voted 1.6.76 for Lionel Watts Oval Lighting be deleted and revoted. (6) The $800 voted for Lay Cold Surface of practice wickets be applied to: I) Lionel Watts Oval. ii) Newport Oval. iii) Dee Why Oval, iv) Allambie Heights Oval, or Curl Curl Reserve (John Fisher Park) … 

That the foregoing recommendation be adopted COUNCIL'S DECISION (19.12.77) rest of December 19 1977 contained Works Programme for following year – 1978: NORTHERN DISTRICT: $ The Outlook, Bilgola Plateau - kerb & gutter construction west side, Daly Street to Plateau Road 80,000 Londale Road, North Narrabeen - reconstruct full width west of Venetian Street 75,000 Bishop Street, Newport - kerb & gutter, road widening, stormwater drainage between Gladstone Street and Bardo Road, together with vehicle parking bay along oval frontage 47,000 Central Road, Avalon - stormwater drainage from Katandra Close easterly 20,000 Park Street, Mona Vale - reconstruction from Pittwater Road to Dygal Street 25,000 Iluka Road, Palm Beach - shoulder widening - east side 15,000 vineyard Street, Mona Vale - kerb & gutter remaining un- kerbed sections both sides from Warriewood Road to Pitt- water Road 50,000

By December 15 1977:

PRACTICE WICKETS REPORT NO. 6.77/109 (s/i) (FILE NO.611) A vote of $800 was made at the Special fleeting, 10th January, 1977 for the laykold surfacing of five (5) practice cricket wickets being: Lionel Watts Reserve Newport Oval, Newport Dee Why Oval, Dee Why Allambie Heights Reserve, Allambie Heights John Fisher Park, Wingale Quotations for the work have been received and are summarised as a) Metropolitan Civil Contractors, Marrickville .2,180 b) North Shore Paving Co. pty. Ltd., Cast Lindfield $3,300 c) Action Surfaces Pty, Ltd., Strathfield $2,006 It is suggested that the additional $1,206 required to undertake the work, if Council accepts the quotation of Action Surfaces Pty. Ltd., be voted from the $20,000 provided For sewerage connections to various reserves. The Treasurer concurs in this recommendation. RECOMMENDATION: That the quotation of Action Surfaces Pty. Ltd. be accepted for the laykold surfacing of five (5) practice cricket wickets for the sum of $2,006 and the funds be voted an suggested above.

Report to: Ordinary Meeting 27.2.78:

cont'd 1978 PARKS AND RESERVES IMPROVEMENT PROGRAMME APPENDIX 'B' ESTIMMI. Kitchener Park Part completion of road and carpark as as per Plan R5494 25,000 Dee Why Lagoon Reserve - Clearing of exotics and improvement 8,000 Terrey Hills Oval - Additional practice wicket 2,000 Dee Why Oval - Construction of car park off Lismore Avenue 5,000 Epworth Park - Clearing West of tennis courts 3,000 Howell Close Newport - Extension of pipeline through reserve at rear of No.5 $1,500 Dee Why Oval - Construction of timber footbridge at Billarong Ave. 5,000 Mona Vale Village Park - Proposed development 16,000 Brookvale Oval - Additional toilet facilities in north eastern corner 32,000 Dunbar Park, Avalon - Asphalting of area between scout and guide halls 1,600 Hitchcock Park - Erection of amenities block at new equestrian area 22,000 North Narrabeen Reserve - Fencing of equestrian area and construction of Amenities building 32,000 General - topdressing and fertilising reserves 60,000 General - Tree planting reserves 15,000 General - Sewerage connections to various reserves 20,000 General - floodlighting of various reserves 20,000 Wyatt Avenue Tennis Courts - Shelter Shed 6,000 Harbord Park - Additions to Kiosk 2,000 Beacon Hill Oval - Construction Sportsfield 33,000 Harbord Park - Sealing entrance to carpark adjacent to Kiosk 1,500 Total: $310,600 

Report to Reserves Committee, 17th July. 1978:

(Item 1.7 contd.) Avalon Golf Links - erection of chain wire fencing to screen the full length of the third hole 3,000 Forestville Oval - additional parking adjacent to tennis courts 10,000 Ingleside Park - installation of water service 3,000 Reserve, Maralinga Road, Elanora - clearing and tree planting 4,000 Reserve, Earl Street, Beacon Hill - lantana clearing 3,000 Toilet block - Reserve adjacent Community Centre, Terrey HIlls 30,000 Remedial work to eliminate further landslips - McCarrs Creek Reserve, Church Point (subject to contribution by adjoining property owners 18,000 Forestville Park - 8m. asphalt pavement, end of Currie Road to a point 250m. east of existing sealed surface 20,000 Reserve, adjacent to No. 125 Prince Alfred Parade, Newport - stabilisation of rocks in the embankment to alleviate possible obstruction to the watercourse by landslips from the northern side 4,000 Lionel Watts Oval - provision of piped .drainage system for disposal of surplus water from bubblers/taps 6,000 Hitchcock Park, Avalon -. turfing of the remainder of the field contained inside the equestrian exercise track, together with erection of a dividing park rail fence 8,000 Provision of seats and name signs within reserves (Minute 1969 O.M. 31.10.1977) 20,000 Narraweena Tennis Club, Beverley Job Park - construction of public amenities block (Mm. 2535, O.M. 19.12.1977) 40,000 Weldon Reserve - cricket sight screens - northern and southern ends of the ground 3,500 Alleyne Avenue Reserve, North Narrabeen - clearing of lantana and noxious weeds and erection of H fence at the edge of the cliff above the old I quarry 2,000 Marine Reserve, Avalon - clearing of a fire break at the rear of properties in Binburra Ave 3,000 Palmgrove Park Avalon - clearing of firebreak adjacent to No. 29 Dress Circle Road 1,000 Opala Reserve, Belrose - provision of arris rail fencing around the Jilliby Place frontage 200 Wabash Reserve, Cromer - levelling, topdressing and turfing 3,000 Dee Why Beach - Stage 2 car park 35,000 North Curl Curl - Stage 2 car park 30,000 South Curl Curl - retaining wall and parking area (future grant) 45,000 Harbord Lagoon - concrete weir and pipeline at North Curl Curl Beach (future grant) 70,000 (contd.) Report to Reserves Committee, 17th July, 1976. (Item 1.7 contd.) ESTIMATE Governor Phillip Park - regrassing & trees 30,000 Yachtsman's Paradise Reserve - construction of rubble sea wall 40,000 Wakehurst Parkway Reserve - public toilets 30,000 Devitt Street Reserve - kerb & gutter & pavement - west end for access and parking 8,000 Truman Reserve, Cromer Heights - dressing sheds and toilets 40,000. Griffith Park - provision of sealed car park 30,000 Dee Why Oval - four tier open wooden stand, 80ft. long 3,000 Forestville Oval - log barriers along Melwood Ave 8,000 Forestville Memorial Oval - ripping, fertilising and turfing . 10,000 Killarney Heights Oval - storage and canteen 20,000 Glenrose Reserve - construction of two additional tennis courts 23,000 John Fisher Park - construction of car park at Fay Street 15,000 John Fisher Park - construction of car park at Park Street 12,000 Quarry Reserve - fill depression, drain and turf area at corner of Quilpie and Amourin Sts 9,000 Cared Bay - fencing west side near salt pan 8,000 Careel Bay Public Wharf - toilets 30,000 Stapleton Park - clearing and removal of noxious weeds 7,000 Crown of Newport Reserve - clearing lantana 10,000 John Fisher Park Parking area at Curl Curl Youth Centre 20,000 John Fisher Park - dressing rooms and toilets near Adams Street 30,000 John Fisher Park - dressing rooms and toilets west of Weldon Reserve 30,000 Pavilion Street/Bridge Road Reserve - development 8,500 Hinkler Park.- construction of public toilet block 30,000 Burnt Bridge Creek Reserve - clear firebreak 7,500 Forestville Oval - ear park near amenities block 30,000 Arndale Reserve - development, tree planting 5,000 Bergonia Park, Mona Vale - clearing & tree planting 3,000 Bayview Reserve - replace pan toilets with septic tanks 30,000 Elvina Bay Reserve - retaining wall on waterfront 14,000 Elanora Reserve, North Narrabeen - access road and drainage 10,000 Terrey Hills Oval - fencing for track 5,000 Kinka Road Reserve - clearing and fencing for riding track 8,000 Narrabeen Lake - regeneration northern isthmus Middle Creek . . 8,000 Robertson Street Reserve - development plan adjacent to Narrabeen Lagoon 30,000 (contd.) 

The Spring September 10 1979 meeting records a Report to Reserves Committee Meeting: TURF CRICKET WICKET DEVELOPMENT. (File 611) Councillor Jones has requested that a report be brought forward ;on the future development of turf cricket wickets bearing in mind Warringah Shire has only one turf wicket;. Warringah Shire's only turf wicket is at Weldon Reserve, Curl Curl. Turf wickets although not expensive to instal (say $5,000) are expensive to maintain as they require a high labour input in the form of a permanent groundsman. Cost of installation Is $5,000 while the annual cost of maintenance is estimated at $10,000. Turf wickets are best sited between winter sport playing fields although they can be maintained in the centre of a football field if some restraints are imposed on the type and frequency of the football played. Soccer and central turf wickets are incompatible due to the heavy midfield ground wear caused by soccer play. Some playing field arrangements will allow for the positioning of a wicket between two adjoining fields. Existing playing fields considered physically suitable for the installation of turf wickets are Lake Park Oval, North Narrabeen; Griffith Park Oval, Long Reef; Hitchcock Park, Cared Bay; Newport Oval, Newport; Lionel Watts Oval, Frenchs Forest. Installation of a turf wicket on any of these fields would require the employment, of a full-time groundsman but construction would be possible and can he accommodated within the existing uses. A test pitch of synthetic turf is to be installed at Harbord Park at the completion of the 1979 winter sports season. It is hoped that this synthetic surface will provide a much improved cricket playing surface without the high maintenance cost of a turf wicket. The cost of installation is approximately $5,000, a similar figure as a turf wicket but not requiring a $10,000 per annum outlay. It is intended to monitor the performance of this synthetic surface during the coming cricket season and the following football season. A report will then be brought forward on its performance. It would seem prudent to await the testing of the synthetic surface material, because if It proves satisfactory and every indication is that it will, then it will be a far more economical solution to the provision of adequate cricket pitches within the Shire. RECOMMENDATION: That the above information be noted and that a report be brought forward in June 1980 on the performance of synthetic turf as a cricket pitch surface. PROCEEDINGS III BRIEF: Mr. Frank Gray, Secretary of Warringah Shire Cricket Club and Secretary of the Manly Warringah Cricket Association, _was given leave to address the Committee. Bilgola Beach _Landscape _improvements. .$ 6,000 A County Road Reserve Belrose _construction of playing field at Lot 11. $ 20,000 A Howell Close Reserve, Newport _drainage works. $ 6,000 A Hitchcock Park _development of northern area $ 10,000 A Macrarlane Parade Reserve _drainage $ 4,000 A Crescent Reserve, Newport _general landscaping. $ 8,000 

A Report to Reserves and Community Services Committee, 17th _February, 1981. 5.5 TENNIS COURT FACILITY FOR NEWPORT AREA. _(File 611/184) A request has been received from a Newport resident for the consideration of having tennis courts established in the Newport area. There are existing private courts in Gladstone Street, however it is a real concern that these will shortly be sold for redevelopment. These are the only two courts in the Newport area. There is a lack of usable reserve land for these facilities in the Newport area. A suggested site is reserve land near Hillslope Road and Sybil Street but the terrain may be such as to make this area not capable of this type of development. Porter reserve is being used to its capacity while an alternative could be Newport Oval. No funds are presently available, but items similar to this could be financed by the Tennis Court Fund. RECOMMENDATION: That the Reserves Planner bring forward a report on suitable sites in the Newport area for tennis courts. COMMITTEE'S RECOMMENDATION (17/2/1981): That the foregoing recommendation be adopted. COUNCIL'S DECISION (23/2/1981):

Newport Tennis Courts in Gladstone Street. Title: 'Tennis courts; Young farmers at Newport, 24 January 1950' / photographs by B. H. Mahoney- Part of ACP Magazines Ltd. photographic archive including Pix magazine negatives, 1930s-1980s, Creators; Australian Consolidated Press and Consolidated Press -and courtesy the State Library of NSW -  you can also see one of these alongside the 1955-1960 photos of the market gardens in Garden street, as above

Meeting held in 1982 – no exact date on:  RESIDENTIAL FLATS. Nos. 33-35 Gladstone Street, Newport __Appeal to Land & Environment Court against refusal _318. _Approval of, subject to conditions

Community Facilities Committee Meeting, 21st April 1987 records: LANDSCAPE IMPROVEMENTS TO BANGALOW RESERVE, MONA VALE (File: 315/108/00) residents of the Landcom subdivision adjacent to Bangalow Reserve are annoyed (?) that a playing field will be established on the Reserve. The residents have actively petitioned Council, requesting that the Reserve be for passive recreation only and propose that the entire reserve be loped as a 'passive recreation park.' ;GROUNDS ‘Pittwater Grove’ Landcom subdivision, which included the land on which slow Reserve in now situated, took into consideration the severe :age of playing fields in the Mona Vale area. Bangalow Reserve was gned to accept a playing field and associated carparking as it was seen as the last opportunity of establishing a playing field in the Mona Vale appears that residents of the subdivision believe that Bangalow Reserve planned to be used for passive recreation only. Residents concern began November 1985 when the Pittwater RSL Junior Rugby League Club sought to establish a home ground playing field. The application was withdrawn as a It of resident opposition. '1T SITUATION is no development application for any form of development at Bangalow :ye before Could/ at the present time. The Open Space Needs Study conducted by Council in 1986 indicates that the for active recreation open space at a neighbourhood level in the Mona Vale area remains. However, the views of residents have been well expressed some justification can be given to retaining a portion of the Reserve for passive recreation. It is recognised that it would be desirable to be an effective visual buffer and physical relief between the Landcom division and the Bassett Street Industrial Area. The buffer would provide ming for residents located on the lower elevations of the subdivision and also providing an amenity for the local community. Landscape plans have been prepared on the basis of a passive recreation area these plans were discussed with local residents who appear satisfied the proposals outlined. The attached sketch shows the concept in Me form. No provision has been made for the works to be included in the Reserves Improvements Programme. However, funds may be available under Bicentennial Scheme. A major portion of the work could be completed for 900 and this would include tree planting, concrete paving and turfing. Residents have indicated that they are willing to assist with the work and be able to contribute towards installation of seats, playground equipment, etc. Work could be undertaken in association with the residents other community groups. 

This is today's Patricia Giles Reserve (Bangalow Reserve) - on Bassett Street or Bangalow Avenue

The WSC meeting of February 27th 1990 records:

BUILDING CATEGORY COMMENTS - Newport Oval, Bishop Street: Concrete Cancer and Downpipe problems 

The May 29th 1990 Minutes of the WSC Meeting record:

The following organisations have applied to Council seeking a donation in lieu of 1988 and 1989 rates. All clubs have paid their rates in full with the exception of Curl Curt Women's Bowling Club ,which has made arrangements to pay off the outstanding amount on a progressive basis:

Curl Curl Womens Bowling Club Rates in 1988: $1,623.01 Rates in 1989: $1,956.62 Lands Dept Lease - rent paid to Crown. Newport Womens Bowling Club Rates in 1988: $1,369.73 Rates in 1989: $1,765.59 . Lease expired 1983 to be renegotiated. Current rent $20.00 pa. Newport Bowling Club rates in 1988: $1,454.16 in 1989: $1,574.56 Lease expired 1978 _to be renegotiated Current rent $20.00 pa. Mona Vale Bowling Club Rates 1988: $1,623.01 . Rates 1989: $2,338.68 Lease expired 1977 _to be renegotiated Current rent $29.00 pa. Warringah Rugby Club Rates 1988: $1,876.30 Rates 1989: 2,275.01 30 year Lease from 1971 Current rent nil.

The July 31st 1990 WSC Meeting formalises: 7.22 Porter Reserve, Newport  Lease to  Newport Rugby Club and Newport. Junior Rugby Club - BP Ref: 350 Renewal of the lease 

Of course, all this pushing a natural flow of water across the land at Newport into concrete pipes does not stop that from reappearing when there are downpours, as seen in the rainfall of February 22 through to March 9 2022:

Newport - at lights flooded - corner of Barrenjoey Road and The Boulevarde. Photo by and courtesy Zenne Manger:

Dave Whiteman, whose childhood home was in Newport at Ross St and the Boulevarde next to Gretel Park, (originally built in the early 50's by Bob Turnbull who had a Real Estate agency in Newport - Mrs Turnbull had a hair salon in the main street), recalls; ''Gretel Park was named after a suggestion to Warringah Shire Council by my father after Frank Packer's yacht Gretel challenged for the Americas Cup in Newport Rhode Island in September 1962. Whenever there was heavy rain, the drains would overflow and the whole area would flood.''

Dave's archive of photos from then:

At Newport the old footprint of the lagoon that once rushed out just south of where the Combers now stands, stretching all the way back to the Bowling Club and brimmed west by current day Barrenjoey road made a reappearance along its old channel across and through this landscape - flooding at the lights, along Ross street and even through the carpark behind the Combers recurred. At the Cocoa Bar, Newport Beach - exterior and interior storage area (their photos):

Newport Oval isn't the only reserve associated with the Woolcott estate that has provided green open space to the community.

In late July 2015 the former Pittwater Council approved for exhibition the draft Community Gardens Policy and nominated Woolcott Park, Woolcott St. Newport (off Gladstone St.) as a potential site. 

At the Council Meeting of Monday 2 November, 2015, reiterating having always supported establishing community gardens in Pittwater, Woolcott Reserve was formally adopted for use as a community garden at the meeting. Pittwater Council put aside compost bins, a worm form and a little boat for the garden.

Woolcott's community garden begins! See their Profile for more details

Pittwater Parks, Reserves and Playgrounds Inventory & Assessment Form records: 

Reserve / Park Name(s): Woolcott Reserve Reserve No.: 453 Area (ha): 0.0797 Asset No: A12025 Location ( eg, street frontages): Suburb / Locality: Land Title Reference: Woolcott street Newport Lot 25, DP 10548 Classification: LGA 1993, Category(s): Zoning: Community Land Park 6 (a) Existing Recreation Photograph: Description: A small neighbourhood park, rectangular in shape in shape, adjoining residential lots on three sides. The park consists of flat lawn areas, picnic table and some remnant native and planted trees including Eucalyptus robusta, Acacia floribunda and Allocasuarina littoralis

Above: In 2018

Above - the 2021 Inaugural Patrick Soars Cup - a Newport Rugby Club, Breakers initiative - now an annual Summer event

Practice nets for cricket at Newport Oval in 2021 (above) - in 2026 (below)

Newport Oval is a high use area throughout the year - cricket throughout Summer, Rugby League throughout Winter and the home ground of the Mona Vale JRLFC - the Raiders.

It's Newport's other Village Green. 

All Newport Oval needs now is a clubhouse....some shelter form the rain at one of the few local sportsgrounds that doesn't close during weather events - or do we need a large Pittwater community tent?

Extras - References

1. TROVE - National Library of Australia
2. State Library of NSW
3. Warringah Shire Council Minutes of Meetings, digitised by Warringah Council
4. Oral history – interview with Ila Solomon (Solomon’s Boatshed, Beaconsfield street, Newport) and Thelma James (Market Gardens in Gladstone Street, Newport) by Roslyn Burge, Australian Centre for Public History, UTS, Ultimo
5. Newport Residents Association
6. Guy Jennings. The Newport Story 1788-1988. Aramo Press. 1987
7. Geoff Searl OAM, President Avalon Beach Historical Society
8. NBC's History Hub; combines Pittwater, Manly and Warringah's donated by families records and photos - available online
9. Newport Residents Association – PON Profile of the Week, July 2017
10. Pittwater Roads II: Where The Streets Have Your Name - Newport
11. Pittwater Summer Houses: Ocean beach House - The Combers, Newport beach
12. Trafalgar Square, Newport: A 'Commons' Park Dedicated By Private Landholders - The Green Heart Of This Community
    
13. Newport Hotel Wharf Named For Queen Victoria
    
14. Collin’s Retreat, Bay View House, Scott’s Sanatorium, Guest and Boarding House: Crystal Bay, Newport
    
15. The Newport School: 1888 To 2018
    
16. Pittwater Roads II: Where The Streets Have Your Name - Bungan Beach
17. Pittwater's Ocean Beach Rock Pools: Southern Corners of Bliss - A History
18. The 'Newport Loop': Some History
19. Photographers Of Pittwater Capture Historic Insights: A. J. (Arthur James) Vogan, 1859-1948  
20. Boulton's Jetty on 'Old Mangrove Bay' + Newport hotel jetty + Newport Public wharf: Some history
21. Crescent Reserve, Newport, on Old Mangrove Bay: Some History + 2026 Photos 
22. The Baird family of Mona Vale - the Wentworths of Newport
23. Remembrance Day 2016: War Memorials - Mona Vale, November 14, 1926
24. Boy Scouts - the pre-Nippers Life Savers: some notes on local troops from 1909
25. Remembrance Day 2021: Mona Vale's Hales-Smith Haynes Smith, Holding, Brentnall and Roby - A.I.F. men of World War One
26. Boulton's Jetty on 'Old Mangrove Bay' + Newport hotel jetty + Newport Public wharf: Some history
27. Photographic Postcards of Hesketh George Henry Swiney: ABHS June 2026 Meeting
28. February 22 To March 9 2022 Weather Event: Some Records
29. David Whiteman - Profile of the Week, Issue 283, October 2016
30. The Inaugural Patrick Alexander Soars Cup: Newport Breakers Off Season Cricket Fun

31. Yachtsmans Paradise Newport - A Public Wharf + Reserve: Some History + 2026 Site Investigation Photos

Newport's Ila Solomon and Thelma James Interview by Roslyn Burge, Australian Centre for Public History, UTS, Ultimo - and also courtesy of both Warringah and Pittwater Councils, 1990's:

Ila was born in Booker Bay but came to live in Newport when she married Herb Solomon in about 1930. Herb moved from Booker Bay with his brother George in about 1927 and built the boatshed in Old Mangrove Bay. [Their brother Fred worked in Jack Miles’ boatshed for a number of years.]

Ila and Herb Solomon had two children but their boatshed was a mecca for lots of children in the district. She talks about life in the 1930s when it was quieter, enjoyable with neighbours and there was a great sense of community – ‘all helped each other’. Both Ila and Thelma also talk about their experiences of wartime – the internment camp established at St Ives, tank traps, soldiers on guard in the hills above The Basin, air-raid shelters.

The wartime events were clearly of importance to both women; Herb Solomon put up the anti-submarine boom/barrier between Barrenjoey and West Head during the war. Went to the Bayview Sands – Herb sometimes put a net out. All the river and the banks were stuck with material to prevent landing of the Japs. Even the house block (9 Beaconsfield Road) was covered with materials to block the Japanese. 

Solomon Brothers later bought Jack Miles boatshed next to the public wharf at Newport, previously occupied by Charlie Johnson and John Wheat. After Herb Solomon’s death in 1959 their boatshed continued to operate until it was sold about four years later and became the Newport Boat Shed. High priced apartments now fill that block.

Thelma grew up in Kingsford and when she married Cobby James she came to live in Newport. After the war they had market gardens in Gladstone Street (growing tomatoes). Her husband also had a business renting surf-o-planes at the beach. Her parents-in-law had the Dew Drop Inn on Pittwater at Newport. Visitors were officers from the ships during wartime – the French officers. Kitty Miles had her wedding at the guest house. Thelma’s in laws came from Gordon to Taylors Point in the 1930s – they had a house but underneath was a shop – right opposite the Torpedo Base at Taylor’s Point. This shop was a general store. Then they moved to the guest house – the Dew Drop Inn.

Boatshed at Newport – Ila and her husband and brother-in-law built it at the end of Beaconsfield Road, next to the hotel. Husband - Herbert Solomon, always called him ‘Solly’. He and his brother George built the boats. Both brothers came from Sydney to Booker Bay and learnt their trade in Sydney. Progress, a step up. They started the boatshed. Built yachts. Ila didn’t build the boats – she was too busy looking after children and ensuring they didn’t fall into the water. Her children, Helen and John; one child born at Queens Parade and her son was born when living at the boatshed ‘a real water baby’.

Queens Parade was a dirt track – Arthur Price lived there in Queens Parade – the Porters, Livingstone’s dairy (one of the Livingstones during the year of the interview (2001) lived at the top of Beaconsfield Road). The store was Mrs Snape’s store which was also the post office store; and also known as Campbells store near the current Mirage. 

Ila and her husband started building boats for doctors and solicitors. They looked after their boats.

The interview took place in Mrs Solomon’s loungeroom. Her granddaughter, Shane Pocklington, helped arranged the interview and was present, together with Ila’s friend of 60 years, Mrs Thelma James, who had lived in Newport since 1940. 

Market gardens – open paddocks. Thelma grew tomatoes – had their own land and leased other land. On the flat at Mona Vale where the depot was where they grew cabbages – government had first call on produce and big army trucks used to come out to collect produce.

Wartime – all the boats were taken away up the Hawkesbury and a dreadful storm came and the boats were badly knocked about, washed up on rocks. Herb wanted to enlist but his trade was restricted – had to build lifeboats for the Queen Mary. Only two boats were left in the harbour.

Ila: Helping in the business – filled boats with petrol, answer the phone. Children were demanding and a dozen other children visiting. Ila cleared the land near the boatshed and made a beach for swimming, established a garden. 

Boatshed – bought the land later. (From Mr Greentree)

Wartime – on the hill they had the internment camp for those who weren’t allies (at St Ives). Weren’t allowed near the camps. They got things locals weren’t able to buy – like cheese – was given to internees. 

Thelma’s father-in-law had air raid shelters built – he was building a septic tank and instead made it into an air-raid shelter. Herb built shelters in the school for the children.

Yacht Club loaded a boat with petrol and it caught fire – terrible bang. Black out blinds – it was eerie. Big explosion when a boat was being refuelled and caught fire – “like a bomb going off… everyone thought the Japs were here”. Barbed wire on the beaches. Tank trap – near Cecil Road.

Thelma’s husband had the market gardens in Gladstone Street – all along, there weren’t many houses. She thought they’d never be able to build there.

All around was market gardens. Very few houses, scattered. Not many people lived permanently, mostly holiday places. Tomatoes were grown in the open.

Glass houses were in Warriewood – Yugoslavs.

‘We weren’t impoverished, might have been restricted. Had to go to Narrabeen for butchers – made your own cloths. Ila made her own, made for her mother when she left school. In your spare time you made cloths.

Boat – sometimes went to The Basin. On the hill were guards watching the water – weren’t allowed to walk on the hills, had to get permission.

Palm Beach had a camping area – only time Thelma went was when she was about 20 – she came with a work-mate from St Peters who was camping with her family. She first met Cobby – her husband to be and his family who were camping at Palm Beach from Gordon.

More land to extend Newport Public School:

NOTIFICATION OF RESUMPTION OF LAND UNDER THE PUBLIC WORKS ACT, 1912.

IT is hereby noticed and declared by His Excellency the Governor, acting with the advice of the -Executive Council, that as much of the land hereunder described as is Crown land has been appropriated, and so much thereof as is private property has been resumed, under the Public Works Act, 3812. for the following public purpose, namely, a Public School at NEWPORT, and is vested in the Minister of Public Instruction oil behalf of His Majesty the King for the purposes of the Public Instruction Act of 1880.

Dated the fourteenth day of January, one thousand nine hundred and forty-eight.

J. NORTHCOTT, Governor. By His Excellency's Command,

< R. J. HEFFRON, Minister of Public Instruction.

Description of Land referred to.

All that piece or parcel of land situate at Newport, Shire of Warringah, parish of Narrabeen, county of Cumberland, and State Of New South Wales, being lot 40 in deposited plan 8,110,—having an area of 1 rood 2£ perches or thereabouts, and said to be in the possession of Nicholas Lancelot Boyden.

Also, all that piece of parcel of land situate as above, being lot 23 of section F of the town of Newport Subdivision, and also being the land comprised in deed or conveyance No. 465, book 1,634,<—having an area of 1 rood 11 perches or thereabouts, and said to be in the possession of (Mrs.) Elsie Louise Hodges.

Also, all that piece or parcel of land situate as above, being lot 24r of section F of the town of Newport Subdivision, and also being the land comprised in deed of conveyance No. 377, book 1,614—having area of 1 rood lo perches or thereabouts, and said to be in the possession of Robert Sunimerville Abbott.

All that piece or parcel of land situate as above, being Lot 41 and 42 in deposited plan 8115,—having an area of 2 roods and ¼ perches, and said to be in the possession of Norman Richard Johnston. (9136). NOTIFICATION OF RESUMPTION OF LAND UNDER THE PUBLIC WORKS ACT, 1912. (1948, January 16). Government Gazette of the State of New South Wales (Sydney, NSW : 1901 - 2001), p. 88. Retrieved from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article225374105 

NOTIFICATION OF RESUMPTION OF LAND UNDER THE PUBLIC WORKS ACT, 1912, AS AMENDED.

IT is hereby notified and declared by His Excellency the Governor, acting with the advice of the Executive Council, that so much of the land described in the Schedule hereto as is Crown land is hereby appropriated, and so much of the said land as is private property is hereby resumed, under the Public Works Act, 1912, as amended, for the following public purpose, namely, a Public School at NEWPORT, and that the said laud is vested in the Minister of Public Instruction as Constructing Authority on behalf of His Majesty the King.

Dated this eighth day of December, one thousand nine hundred and forty-eight.

J. NORTHCOTT, Governor. By His Excellency's Command, E. J. HEFFRON, Minister of Public Instruction.

The Schedule.

All that piece or parcel of land situate at Newport, Shire of Warringah, parish of Narrabeen, county of Cumberland, and State of New South Wales, being lot 39 in deposited plan 8,115, —having an area of 1 rood perches or thereabouts, and said to be in the possession of Arthur Keeling Boyden. (4975) NOTIFICATION OF RESUMPTION OF LAND UNDER THE PUBLIC WORKS ACT, 1912, AS AMENDED. (1948, December 24). Government Gazette of the State of New South Wales (Sydney, NSW : 1901 - 2001), p. 3454. Retrieved from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article224785616 

Attunga and Newport's new tip:

Sydney, 26th October, 1956.

RESERVES FROM SALE AND LEASE GENERALLY.

IT is hereby notified that, in pursuance of the provisions of sections 28 and 29 of the Crown Lands Consolidation Act, 1913, the Crown lands hereunder described shall be temporarily reserved from sale for the public purpose hereinafter specified and temporarily reserved and exempted from lease generally, and they are hereby reserved and exempted accordingly.

ROGER NOTT, Minister for Lands. 

FOR PUBLIC RECREATION.

Land District—Metropolitan; Shire—Warringah.

No. 79,011 from sale (79,012 from lease generally). Parish Narrabeen, county Cumberland, about 24 acres 1 rood, shown by black hatching on diagram hereunder. P. 56-4,825.

FOR RUBBISH DEPOT.

Land District—Metropolitan ; Shire—Warringah.

No. 79,009 from sale (79,010 from lease generally). Parish Narrabeen, county Cumberland, about 1 acre 2 roods 30 perches, shown by black hatching on diagram hereunder. P. 56-4,825.

RESERVES FROM SALE AND LEASE GENERALLY. (1956, October 26). Government Gazette of the State of New South Wales (Sydney, NSW : 1901 - 2001), p. 3156. Retrieved from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article220346864 

Porters being used as tip:

LANDS DEPARTMENT NOTICES.

(3273) Sydney, 1st February, 1957.

ERRATUM.

Land District—Metropolitan; Shire—Warringah.

IN the notification in the Government Gazette of 25th January, 1957, folio 218, of the appointment of trustees for "Reserve No. 79009 for Public Recreation at Newport" read "Reserve No. 79009 for Rubbish Depot at Newport". P. 56-4,825.

ROGER NOTT, Minister for Lands. LANDS DEPARTMENT NOTICES. ERRATUM. (1957, February 1). Government Gazette of the State of New South Wales (Sydney, NSW : 1901 - 2001), p. 348. Retrieved from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article220350260 

LOCAL GOVERNMENT ACT, 1919

Cumberland County Council: Proposed Resumption of Land at Newport

HIS Excellency the Governor, with the advice of the Executive Council and in pursuance of the Local Government Act, 1919, has approved of the Cumberland County Council's causing a notice of resumption of the land together with all mines or deposits of coal, ironstone, kerosene shale, limestone, slate or other minerals under the said land (excepting any such mines or deposits as were reserved to the Crown in the original grant of the said land) described in the Schedule hereto, together with a description of such land, to be published in the Government Gazette and in a newspaper circulating in the area in which the land is located, such land being required by the Cumberland County Council for the purpose of carrying into effect the provisions of the County of Cumberland Planning Scheme. (S. 59-2,186)

J. B. RENSHAW, Minister for Local Government. Department of Local Government,

Sydney, 4th September, 1959.

Schedule

Ail that piece or parcel of land situate in the Shire of Warringah, parish of Narrabeen and county of Cumberland, being lots 37 and 38, deposited plan 12,994,-—-having a total area of 3 roods 20 perches or thereabouts, said to be In the possession of Roderick W. Healey and shown on plan with the Department of Local Government, Sydney. (1896) LOCAL GOVERNMENT ACT, 1919 (1959, September 4). Government Gazette of the State of New South Wales (Sydney, NSW : 1901 - 2001), p. 2685. Retrieved from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article219942264 

Newport Rugby Club shares:

Newport Rugby Club was established in 1963 (largely for ages below 18). However, in 1966, the first Senior team was formed to play in the NSW Suburban Rugby Competition. In 1969, the "Tip" at Porter Reserve was converted into a playing field (by way of a bulldozer's demonstration day) to create our current home...

Porter's Reserve, circa 1969

In the early 70s - the then Newport RSL Club (adjoining the oval) was transferred for the use of the Rugby Club and became our first clubhouse. And in 1972 we won our first Premiership...

Woolcott Estate Background

Real Property Act:

No.: 16,118. APPLICANT:—John Farrell, Newport.

LAND:—County Cumberland, parish Narrabeen, shire Warringah, 132 acres 2 roods, on McMahon's Creek and South Pacific Ocean,— being lands granted as 60 acres (portion 21 of parish) and 30 acres (portion 23 of parish) to John Farrell, and 50 acres (portion 22 of parish) to Martin Burke, and part 50 acres (portion 38 of parish) granted to Robert Henderson, and also part 1200 acres (portion 20 of parish) granted to the Reverend John Joseph Therry, exclusive of the road 1 chain wide from Manly to Barranjoey, the area of which has been deducted from the total area; adjoining properties of M. Dowling and A. M. Bowman, P. J. Shopee, J. Stevenson, W. C. Woolcott, G. Skinner, J. H. Slater, S. Oliver, M. Eason, J. McGlynn, A. Middows, New South Wales Realty Co., W. S. de Wilde, and H. M. Malcolm and Crown Land. NOTICE UNDER REAL PROPERTY ACT. (1910, February 23). Government Gazette of the State of New South Wales (Sydney, NSW : 1901 - 2001), p. 1112. Retrieved from  http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article227062930

Primary Applications

In Vol-Fol 1749-227 is the Porter Grant and current day eastern end of Wallumatta, Irrubel and Bardo roads, Newport and sold off by NSW Realty Company from October 6th 1906 on, on behalf (power of Sale from Widows Fund Life Assurance Society). There’s a resumption of land for water thoroughfare at eastern end there too – to Warringah Shire Council – they put all the creeks into pipes.

PA 17898. Title; Primary Application - Jane Adela Chisholm 3 acres situated in The Queen's Parade Newport Shire Warringah Parish Narrabeen Volume 2382 Folio 129. Contents Date Range. 28-05-1912 to 12-07-1913

PA 17899. Title; Primary Application - Jane Adela Chisholm 1 acre situated Gladstone Street Newport Shire Warringah Parish Narrabeen Volume 2461 Folio 39. Contents Date Range; 28-05-1912 to 26-03-1914

PA 21297. Title; Primary Application - William Charles Woolcott 9 acres 1 rood 5 1/2 perches in Gladstone and Bishop Streets and Barrenjoey Road at Newport in Shire Warringah Parish Narrabeen County Cumberland Volume 3154 Folio 163. Contents Date Range; 27-02-1918 to 08-02-1921

No. 21,297. APPLICANT :—William Charles Woolcott, Sydney. LAND:—Shire Warringah, at Newport, 4 acres 1 rood 22 ¾ perches, 3 acres 3 roods 27 perches, and 3 roods 35 ¼ perches situated in Barrenjoey-road, Gladstone and Bishop streets, comprising section H, lots 7, 8, and 11 to 18, inclusive, section J, of Newport Township.

Diagrams delineating these lands may be inspected at the Land Titles Office, Sydney.

W. G. H-WILLIAMS, Registrar-General. 7th March, 1919.  NOTICE UNDER REAL PROPERTY ACT. (1919, March 7). Government Gazette of the State of New South Wales (Sydney, NSW : 1901 - 2001), p. 1468. Retrieved from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article229667678 

William Charles Woolcott 

Two men of the same name - one was a brother of Charles Henry Woolcott and the other his eldest and first-born son who was given the same name. 

In the Supreme Court of New South Wales. (22,798)

IN INSOLVENCY AND IN BANKRUPTCY.

In the Insolvent Estate of William Thomas Cunningham and William Charles Woolcott, trading as "Cunningham & Co.," of Bridge-street,

THIRD MEETING.

WHEREAS the estate of the abov6named insolvents was, on the 12th day of December, 1887, placed under sequestration, by order, and the First and Second Meetings of creditors have duly been held: I hereby appoint a Third Public Meeting of the creditors of the said William Thomas Cunningham and William Chas. Woolcott, to be holden before me, or before the Registrar in Bankruptcy, at the Court, Chancery-square, Sydney, on Friday, the 13th day of April next, to commence at 11 a.m., or as soon afterwards as the course of business will permit, for the proof of debts against the said I estate, and to receive the report of the Official Assignee as to I the then condition of the same ; also, for giving him directions as to its future management, and as to whether the creditors will permit the said insolvents to retain for their own use their household furniture, wearing apparel, bedt>, bedding, and tools of trade, or any part thereof respectively*—Dated at Sydney, the 9th day of March, a.d. 1888.

GEORGE HERBERT DEFFELL,

Chief Commissioner of Insolvent Estates.

ARTHUR HENRY,

Registrar in Insolvency. Official Assignee—Augustus Mobbis. IN INSOLVENCY AND IN BANKRUPTCY. (1888, March 13). New South Wales Government Gazette (Sydney, NSW : 1832 - 1900), p. 1870. Retrieved from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article222122473 

[Notice of Application for a Certificate of Conformity,  In the Supreme Court of New South Wales.(22,798)

In the Insolvent Estate of William Thomas Cunningham and William Charles Woolcott, of Sydney, tourist agents; ex parte William Charles Woolcott.

To the Official Assignee and Creditors.

TAKE NOTICE that the abovenamed insolvent intends to apply to His Honor the Judge in Bankruptcy, fit the Court, Chancery-square, Sydney, on Tuesday, the 30th day of October next, at 11 a.m, or so soon afterwards as the course of business will admit, that a certificate be granted to him, under and according to the provisions of the Acts 5th Victoria No. 17, 7th Victoria No. 19# and 25th Victoria No. 8.—Dated this 24th day of- September, 1888.

VILLENEUVE-SMITH & DAWES,

Attorneys for the abovenamed Applicant. 6458 . 6s. 6d. In the Supreme Court of New South Wales. (1888, September 25). New South Wales Government Gazette (Sydney, NSW : 1832 - 1900), p. 6776. Retrieved from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article219882522 

Will of WILLIAM CHARLES WOOLCOTT, late of Manly,

In the State of New South Wales, retired, deceased.—Probate granted by Supreme Court of New South Wales on 31st January, 1947.—Pursuant to the Wills. Probate and Administration Act, 1898-1940 (Testator's Family Maintenance and Guardianship of Infants Act, 1916-1938, and Trustee Act. 1925-1940), Rosamond Mary Woolcott and Charles Hugh Woolcott, the executors of the will of the said William Charles Woolcott, who died on 6th March, 1946, hereby give notice that creditors and others having any claim against or to the estate of the said deceased are required to send particulars of their claims to the said executors, care of the undersigned, on or before the 14th May, 1947, at the expiration of which time the said executors will distribute the assets of the said deceased to the persons entitled, having regard only to the claims of which they then have notice.—Dated 13th February, 1947. L. O. MARTIN & SONS, Proctors for the Executors, 147 Victoria-street, Taree. By their Agents,—Martin & Lamport, 129 Pitt-street, Sydney. 542—£1 RE of WILLIAM CHARLES WOOLCOTT, late of Manly, (1947, February 21). Government Gazette of the State of New South Wales (Sydney, NSW : 1901 - 2001), p. 469. Retrieved from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article224766375 

NSW BDMS Death; WOOLCOTT WILLIAM CHARLES 3580/1946 parents: CHARLES HENRY and HELEN, registered at MANLY

Parents marriage: 1040/1862 WOOLCOTT CHARLES H to INDER, HELEN registered at CHIPPENDALE – Helen was born in 1831 - Born 23 Sep 1831 in Somerset, England, United Kingdom. Died 19 Jan 1910 at age 78 in St Leonards, New South Wales

Charles Henry Woolcott was Born 1821 in Exeter, Devon, England, Died about 23 Aug 1905 at his home on Berry’s Bay.

Daughter of Jacob Inder  and Louisa (Pople) Inder

Children of union:

WOOLCOTT WILLIAM CHARLES 4166/1863 CHARLES H HELEN ST LEONARDS – married 1896 to Rosamond Hall – registered at St Leonards, died 1946, death registered at Manly - WOOLCOTT—HALL.—On April 23rd, at Christ Church, North Sydney, by the Rev. A. Yarnold, M.A., William Charles, eldest son of Charles Henry Woolcott. of North Sydney, to Rosamond, second daughter of Robert Hall, of Melbourne. They have one child registered as being born 1898, registered at Chatswood: Charles Henry Woolcott.

WOOLCOTT MARY LOUISE 4392/1864 CHARLES HHELENST LEONARDS – married 1907 to Edward Bayly, died 1936, death registered at North Sydney

WOOLCOTT NORAH C 4450/1866 CHARLES H HELEN ST LEONARDS – died 1867

WOOLCOTT EDITH H L 4797/1867 CHARLES H HELEN ST LEONARDS – married 1900 to William Hunt, died 1929, death registered at Chatswood

WOOLCOTT ELLA M 4764/1868 CHARLES H HELENST LEONARDS – died 1868, named ‘Ellen’ in NSW BDM’s

WOOLCOTT HARRY 5419/1871 CHARLES H HELENST LEONARDS – died 1871

WOOLCOTT ALFRED H 6634/1877 CHARLES H HELEN ST LEONARDS – died 1942 at Picton

WOOLCOTT.—August 23, at his residence, Ivy Cliffe, Berry's Bay, Charles Henry Woolcott, in his 84th year. No flowers. Family Notices (1905, August 24). The Sydney Morning Herald (NSW : 1842 - 1954), p. 6. Retrieved from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article14729338 

The death is announced of Mr. Charles Henry Woolcott, formerly town clerk of Sydney. The deceased gentleman was for many years closely identified with the municipal life of this city. He took much interest in matters relating to the early history of Sydney, and some years ago the City Council accepted from him a gift of pictures which give a good idea of Sydney as it appeared in the early days. The late Mr. Woolcott passed away at his residence, Ivy Cliff, Berry's Bay, yesterday, in his 84th year. PERSONAL. (1905, August 24). The Sydney Morning Herald (NSW : 1842 - 1954), p. 6. Retrieved from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article14729385 

FUNERAL OF THE LATE MR WOOLCOTT.

The funeral of the late Mr Charles Henry Woolcott, ex Town Clerk of Sydney, took place in the Church of England Cemetery, Gore Hill, on Friday afternoon. The chief mourners were Messrs. C. P. and L. S. Woolcott (sons), C B. Woolcott, S G. Mansfield (nephews), W.L. Hunt (son-in-law). The City Corporation was represented by Mr. W L. Layton (Acting Town Clerk), Mr. S. E. Lees, ex-Mayor, and other officials. Messrs: Trevor Jones, A. C. Mountain, E. M. Sayers, Dr. Andrew Houison, Edward Downing, Jas. Dalgarno, R V Saddington, A. Saddington, J. P. Brindley, E A. Holden, R. T. Carter, P. H. Johnstone, E. W. and F E Hey-wood, Mordaunt Clarke, F. Rae, R. Old, A. Rat ray, Jass Johnson, M. Ryan; W. and A. Pownall, H. Rae, Asher Day, Henry C. Mitchell (Chamber of C & Commerce), H A Hunt, J M Small; (Water and Sewerage Board), Davidson, Loxton, , W Younger, D. H Barton,F. Blakeman, Clarke, jun.,J Dolton, T. W. Haricks, John Coleman, ; H. Inder, and many others, including old resi dents and identities. The Rev. J.H. Maclean, of Christ Church Liavender Bay --of which deceas ed was a warden for a long period--read the burial serylce,~and delivered a feeling address at its close. Mr Woolcott lived for fifty years at Berry's Bay on North Shore, in the pretty stone residence, "Ivy Cliff", erected by himself at the head of the picturesque bay and he used to row daily to and from Miller's Point to attend his duties at the town Hall for thirty two years. In those early days Mr Woolcott interested himself with the late Dr Ward and Mr E M Sayers, in establishing in 1859, the St Leonards School of Arts. The latter gentleman is still a trustee of that institution, and he drove from Mosman to attend the funeral, although about the same age as was the deceased. Mr Woolcott was also a trustee of the School of Arts. Mrs Woolcott, two sons, and two daughters survive deceased. FUNERAL OF THE LATE MR. WOOLCOTT. (1905, August 26). Evening News (Sydney, NSW : 1869 - 1931), p. 4. Retrieved from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article114471565 

The funeral of the late Mr. Charles Henry Woolcott took place yesterday at the Gore Hill Cemetery, in the presence of a large and representative gathering. The chief mourners were Messrs. William Woolcott and Harold Woolcott (sons), A. Incer [Inder] (brother-in-law), and William Hunt (son-in-law). Amongst others present were - Messrs. James Dalgarno, F. H. Johnson, J. P. Brindley, E. W. Haywood, James Johnson, H. Hunt, A. E. Haywood, W. Juncker, John Coleman, F. Ryan, E. Trevor-Jones, J. Small, F. Rae, Lee, A. Saddington, R. C. Saddington, Asher Day, H. C. Mitchell, J. Doulton. E. M. Sayers, G. H. Barton, Dr. Houlson. W. Mordaunt Clarke, R. Old, E. A. Holden, Rattery, T. W. Harricks, W. L. Lay-ton (Sydney Town Hall), A. C. Mountain, W. Pownall and E. Dowling. The Rev. J. H. McLean officiated at the graveside. PERSONAL. (1905, August 26). The Sydney Morning Herald (NSW : 1842 - 1954), p. 11. Retrieved from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article14712517 

Harry died as a baby in 1871.

City of Sydney Council archives state: Shortly before his death, he donated his collection of 25 paintings, hoping they would form the nucleus of a municipal art gallery.

Watercolour - Kenilworth Castle, Warwick by Charles Henry Woolcott, 1876

Circular Quay by C H Woolcott

View of the overgrown ruined remains of Kenilworth Castle in Warwickshire, England by Charles Woolcott, 1876. Regarded as one of the finest surviving example of a semi-royal palace of the later middle ages and significant for its scale, form and quality of workmanship, it is distinguished by its Norman keep and fine Tudor gardens. Charles Henry Woolcott (1821 - 1905) was employed by the Municipal Corporation of Sydney from 1843 and succeeded John Rae as town clerk until 1887. 

Portrait of Charles Henry Woolcott, Municipal Council of Sydney, 1878

This is a portrait of Charles Henry Woolcott, Clerk to the City Treasurer, 1843-1846; Assistant Clerk to the City Surveyor, 1846-1847; Clerk to the City Treasurer, 1847-1849; Assistant to the Town Clerk, 1849-1853; Acting Town Clerk, 1851; Secretary to the City Commissioners, 1854-1857; Town Clerk, 1857-1887. He died in 1905. Dates from Marilyn Mason's 'Employees of the City of Sydney 1842-1900'.

Painter and public servant, was born in Exeter, England. In 1832 he accompanied his parents to Sydney, where he began to work with the City Corporation. lived in Redfern until 1864, when it is believed that he moved into Ivycliff. He joined the City of Sydney Council as a clerk to the city treasurer in 1843 and held various positions, including draughtsman to the city surveyor and secretary to the Mayor before becoming assistant town clerk. He became town clerk in 1857 and served a record 44 years on the council, he resigned in March 1887. Whilst living at Ivy Cliff Charles Woolcott rowed daily across the harbour to attend his duties at City of Sydney Council. He continued to reside at Ivy Cliff until his death in August 1905 at 83 years of age. His wife Helen stayed on in the house after his death. After her own death in January 1910 their daughter Mary Bayly retained ownership of the house. At this time the property was advertised for auction in the Sydney Morning Herald as a “water frontage residence, built of Stone (in main) and Weatherboard, and containing 9 rooms, kitchen, laundry, bathroom, pantry and other offices”. She leased it out to a succession of tenants, the most notorious being William James Chidley, philosopher with unconventional theories on sex, diet and clothing, who reportedly sunbathed naked with his followers upon the lawns at the rear of the house (with followers) in full view of trains passing by.

The Building of Ivy Cliff: Charles Henry Woolcott purchased lots 1-5 sec E of the Blues Estate in 1858. However it would appear that the house was commissioned by him and built by 1865, as in 1866 he advertised the house for auction: 

‘That delightfully situated WATERSIDE VILLA known as IVY CLIFF, at the head of BLUE’S BAY… The house is most substantially built of stone, and contains hall, six good rooms, kitchen, laundry, servant’s room, store etc. There is a verandah 60 feet by 8 feet on the western, and a balcony with two porches on the southern end of the house…the internal work is of picked cedar, and no expense has been spared in completing it as a comfortable residence, replete with every family convenience. It is possible that no suitable offer was received for the purchase of Ivy Cliff and hence Charles Woolcott remained owner and occupant of the home until his death in 1905.’ – North Sydney Council Heritage notes

DEATHS

On the 4th January, at Ivy Cliff, Berry's Bay, Harry, infant son of Mr. Charles H. Woolcott. Family Notices (1871, January 14). Australian Town and Country Journal (Sydney, NSW : 1870 - 1919), p. 30. Retrieved from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article70464266 

Mr. C. H. Woolcott.

One of the last of the old City Council Brigade, who died at his residence, Berry's Bay, North Sydney, on Wednesday, in his 84th year. Mr. C. H. Woolcott. (1905, August 24). Evening News (Sydney, NSW : 1869 - 1931), p. 5. Retrieved from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article114464366 

In the Supreme Court of New South Wales.

PROBATE JURISDICTION.

In the will of Charles Henry Woolcott, late of "Ivy Cliff’’, Berry's Bay, North Sydney, in the State of New South Wales, Esquire, deceased.

NOTICE is hereby given that all creditors and other persons having any debt or claim upon or affecting the estate of Charles Henry Woolcott, the abovenamed deceased, who died on or about the 23rd day of August, 1905, and probate of whose will was granted by the Supreme Court of New South Wales, in its Probate Jurisdiction, on the 18th day of September now instant to Alexander Allan Rattray, of O'Connell-street, Sydney, accountant, the executor named in the said will, are hereby required to send in particulars of their claims to the said Alexander Allan Rattray or to the undersigned Frederick William Walker, on or before the 18th day of November next at the expiration of which time the said Alexander Allan Rattray will proceed to distribute the assets of the said deceased among the persons entitled thereto, having regard to the debts and claims only of which he shall then have had notice; and the said Alexander Allan Rattray will not be liable, for the assets so distributed, to any person of whose debt or claim he shall not have had notice at the time of such distribution.— Dated this 27th day of September, 1905.

FREDERICK WILLIAM WALKER,

Proctor for Executor,

36, Castlereagh-street, Sydney.

785 7s. 6d. PROBATE JURISDICTION. (1905, September 29). Government Gazette of the State of New South Wales (Sydney, NSW : 1901 - 2001), p. 6627. Retrieved from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article220950996 

William C. Woolcott and Direct Fruit Supply Co. of Basement, Queen Victoria Markets. 

William Prout Woolcott was a Businessman and entrepreneur who developed English style pleasure gardens at Cremorne.

WOOLCOTT, William Prout (William Prout WOOLCOTT; W. P. WOOLCOTT). Music seller, music publisher, general publisher, bookseller, stationer, art dealer, real estate and land agent, venue proprietor. Born Exeter, Devon, England, 1825; baptised St. Stephen, Exeter, 6 October 1825; son of William WOOLCOTT (1784-1862) and Mary PROUT (1787-1860)

Arrived Sydney, NSW, 29 October 1832 (per Nancy, with parents). Trading as Woolcott and Clarke, Sydney, NSW, 14 April 1851 to 19 August 1856. Married Lucy KEPPEL, VIC, 1864. Died Sydney, NSW, 30 September 1887, aged "61"

NOTICE is hereby given, that William Prout Woolcott, of the Cremorne Gardens, near Sydney, in the Colony of New South Wales, gentleman, and Henry Marsh, of the same place, licensed victualler, trading together at the place aforesaid, under the firm of "Woolcott and Marsh," did, on the eighteenth day of March instant, duly make and execute an Assignment of all their Estate, credits, and effects whatsoever and wheresoever, unto John Miller, of Sydney aforesaid, wine merchant, one of the firm of "John Miller and Company," and William Goodman Henfrey, of Sydney aforesaid, cordial manufacturer, in trust for the benefit of all their Creditors . . . Dated this eighteenth day of March, one thousand eight hundred and fifty seven . . . "NEWS OF THE DAY", The Sydney Morning Herald (1 October 1887), 13 http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article28348823

WE regret to have to announce the death of Mr. W. P. Woolcott, sen., house and land agent, which occurred suddenly yesterday afternoon. Mr. Woolcott at the time of his death, was on his way from his office, Fitz-Evan-chambers, Castlereagh-street, to join his brother (the late town clerk), when he dropped dead, it is supposed from an attack of apoplexy. "Deaths", The Sydney Morning Herald (4 October 1887), 1 http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article13652167 - WOOLCOTT. - September 30, at Fitz-Evan-chambers, of apoplexy, William Prout Woolcott, aged 61 years.

Other Gladstone Street land holders:

PA 35664. Title; Primary Application - William George Denchfield 1 Acre 7 3/4 perches on Gladstone Street Newport in Parish Narrabeen County Cumberland Volume 5502 Folio 123. Contents Date Range; 31-07-1944 to 22-06-1945

PA 35748 | Primary Application - Elizabeth Denchfield 2 Acres 3 roods 24 3/4 perches on corner Gladstone & King Streets Newport in Parish Narrabeen County Cumberland Volume 5565 Folio 77. 02-11-1944 to 26-03-1946

PA 36420. Primary Application - Sarah Ann Collins 1 Acre 3 roods 36 1/2 perches on Gladstone & Princes Streets Newport in Parish Narrabeen County Cumberland Volume 6461 Folio 35. Contents Date Range; 03-07-1947 to 11-03-1952

NRS-17513-26-135-PA 45026 | Primary Application - Ronald Theodore Cropley & Others 29 3/4 perches in Gladstone Street at Newport in Parish Narrabeen County Cumberland Shire Warringah Volume 10429 Folio 136 01-06-1966 to 01-11-1966

NRS-17513-26-166-PA 45283 | Primary Application - Stanley Borrill Close 1 rood 16 perches in Gladstone Street at Newport in Parish Narrabeen County Cumberland Shire Warringah Volume 10535 Folio 51 06-10-1966 to 19-04-1967

William Charles Woolcott

To David Scott – Book-No: 415-230, Lot 22 Section I –  

To Herbert Scott - Book-No: 415-320, Lots 10, 9 Section J

Suburban Railway Agitation.

At the invitation of Mr. W. C. Woolcott (of the Tourists' Bureau), a party of gentlemen, consisting of Mr. J. F. Burns, M.L.A., Mr. Cullen, M.L.A., and Mr. M. McMahon (of McMahon's Point), drove from town on Saturday morning to attend a meeting at Newport, advocating the construction of a line of railway from North Shore to Manly, thence to Newport and Pittwater. Newport is a beautiful watering place, surrounded by scenery that rivals the best to be found in Middle Harbor, and is a favorite resort for tourists and holiday folk. It is situated some twelve miles from Manly, and is at present approached by ocean boats — Broken Bay being in close proximity, and two lines of stage coaches. In the village itself there are manifest signs of progression — a church, a post and telegraph office, and a very comfortable hotel are boasted by the little community. A public school is in course of construction for the benefit of the twenty-one infantile Newporters that are growing up thereabouts; and a commodious hall for public purposes is about to be erected. 

After the party had been shown over the village an adjournment was made to the Newport Hotel, at which place the meeting was held. There were some forty gentlemen present, prominent among whom were Messrs. John Wood, F. Chave, T. W. Willans, D. Scott, L. Houreux, M. Roche, W. Boulton, M. Robertson, F. West, O. West, and McLaughlin. Mr. Chave was voted to the chair, and, after briefly explaining the object of the meeting, called on Mr. Willans to move the following resolution — 'That in the opinion of this meeting the time has arrived when Manly and Pittwater should be connected with North Shore by rail way.' Mr. W. Boulton seconded the resolution.

Mr. J. F. Burns, in supporting the resolution, said that the mission which had brought Mr. Cullen and himself to the district was in connection with the proceedings lately taken at Manly to secure railway communication with North Shore. Speaking for himself, he thoroughly believed the time had arrived when the Pittwater and Manly districts should be connected with the railway system of the colony, and he was therefore quite prepared, and intended, to advocate the project. It seemed from the slow progress of the Public Works Committee that the vexed question of the extension of the North Shore rail way to the deep waters of Port Jackson would not be decided in a day; but this delay could not last for ever, and when the question was decided they would be enabled to see at what point the Manly branch would junction with the North Shore line. One could not fail to be impressed with the attractions of the Pittwater district for settlement, and, as at holiday times, the number of visitors by coach and steamer ran into thousands, it was fair to assume that the great attractions of the place were becoming known. The land was valuable and rich, the scenery beautiful, the whole place healthy, and a good start made with settlement, hence there could be no question that, with the construction of a railway, would come a large population. There was every reason to believe that the cost of a line would be very small, for the country through which it would pass was almost a dead level. Once communication of this kind was opened up, the question of the site of the quarantine station could very easily be settled, and with satisfaction to all concerned. He looked forward to the time when there would be a great demand in Pittwater for building sites, where gentlemen engaged in the city could establish their homes. It was the same with Newcastle. As soon as communication with East Maitland was opened up, the well-to-do business men of the coal city established their homes there. There were so few difficulties in the construction of a line from North Shore to Pittwater that he felt persuaded the line within a very few years would pay good interest upon the cost of construction, and therefore he felt confidence in urging the work upon the attention of the Government and of the Parliament. 

Between January and May of this year one Sydney company had booked as many as 5000 passengers to Pittwater on excursion days by one line of steamers. And then he was informed that the Manly traffic was increasing at such a rate that the steamers could hardly cope with it. The present population of Manly was about 4500, while the population at North Shore that would contribute traffic totalled some 18,000. Then between Manly and Pittwater was a very area of Crown land, which if sold now would bring a very good price; but the value of this land would be very largely increased by the construction of a railway. In the Manly Cove district proper were 11,800 acres of Crown land, in Narrabeen 2200 acres, and at Broken Bay 25,000 acres so that in those three districts were over 36,000 acres of Crown land, all of which, being benefited by the railway, would be increased in price. At the present time the passenger traffic to Manly amounted to upward of 300,000 per annum, and there could not be the slightest doubt that this would be largely in creased by an efficient railway service. For these various reasons it appeared to him that the Manly Railway League was fully entitled to the support of all who could give it to secure a line of railway from North Shore; and, although it might take some time to accomplish the object, yet that object being a reasonable and just one, it was bound to be accomplished in due time. The resolution was carried unanimously. Mr. David Scott moved: "That a branch league, to co-operate with the North Sydney, Manly, and Pittwater Railway Extension League, which has for its object the collection of information and proof of the feasibility of the proposed line, be now formed, and that the names of members at the branch league be received." Mr. W. C. Woolcott seconded the resolution. Mr Cullen, M.L.A., in supporting the resolution, said that frequently when persons were advocating public works, charges were levelled against them of being prompted by motives of self-interest, of being land-sharks, and so forth. No doubt there had been and were cases of men using land illegitimately, but he believed that a great deal of nonsense had been talked about land-sharks. He was prepared to give credit to any far-seeing man who bought land at the market price, and by opening up the district in which the land was situate, increased its value. 

Such men were the pioneers of a district, and were deserving of credit. He had a great respect for the good taste shown by the pioneers of Pittwater, and felt that their settlement was bound to go ahead, for in the matter of the railway, as in all the concerns of the district, they were putting their whole heart and working together. In making their request for a railway they should show to the Minister for Works that the importance of Manly and Pittwater was sufficient to justify the request, and that the line had good prospects of paying at an early date. It was not sufficient to show that the railway would pay, for there were other parts of the colony crying out for railway communication, and promising an equally, good return, but it would be necessary to show that the importance of the Manly and Pittwater districts justified early attention. He firmly believed that the line the meeting was advocating would pay well, and that, so far as the cost of construction was concerned, it would be one of the cheapest in the colony. At the outside the cost would not exceed £3500 per mile; the price at which the Cootamundra to Temora line was to be built, and he was persuaded that from the very outset the passenger traffic would pay interest on the cost of construction. He knew of one instance where it was estimated that passenger traffic on a railway proposed to be built would not yield more than £6000 a year, when, as a matter of fact, a line of coaches that then did duty for the railway was earning as much as £5000 per annum, showing how unreliable the railway estimate was. He felt sure that when comparative figures, in connection with a line of railway from North Shore to Pittwater were put in proper form it would be clearly seen that the line would pay well from passenger traffic alone. 

Apart from this, there was the fact that the railway would very greatly enhance the value of the large tracts of Crown land in the district. He urged his hearers to state their case to the Minister for Works, and said he was prepared to go with them without the slightest reservation or hesitation, for he had the fullest confidence that what they were advocating would not merely benefit the district, but the colony at large. The resolution was carried unanimously. Mr. Shorter moved, — ' That in conformity with the resolution passed at the meeting of the North Sydney, Manly, and Pittwater League, held in the Oddfellows' Hall, Manly, on June 9, 1890, an executive committee, consisting of six members, be now elected for the purpose of co operation with the Manly committee.' Mr. Hodges seconded the resolution, which was carried unanimously. The following gentlemen were chosen as an executive committee: Messrs. T. W. Willans, David Scott, Roche, F. Chave, McIntosh, and W. Boulton. Suburban Railway Agitation. (1890, June 23). Evening News (Sydney, NSW : 1869 - 1931), p. 3. Retrieved from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article128778044 

Newport lagoon reclamation and the Jeffrey Family

Warringah Shire Council Minutes of Meetings:

18. F. T. Jeffery. .27.11.26. advising that application has been made to the Lands Department, for a Special Purchase of part Leases of the bed of Newport lagoon; and requesting the Council's approval to same- : Resolved, - (Crs. Hope, Atkins) That it be referred to the Works Committee. 

The February 7th 1927 Meeting records:

Elvina Bay Wharf: Resolved Cr.s Simpson, Hope; that the approach to the wharf at Elvina Bay be repaired as soon as funds are available and Mr. Fitzpatrick be informed. Scotland Island baths; that the baths at the northern wharf of Scotland island be repaired at the estimated cost of £2. Salt Pan Estate; that the Engineers recommendation that the balance of the deposit for the construction of roads be refunded. Adopted. 34. F. T. Jeffrey. 31/1/27. Asking that Council reconsider Mr. Scott-Scott's application to purchase portion of bed of Newport Lagoon. Resolved (Ore. Hope, Parr) that it be referred to the Works Committee for attention when convenient. Mr. Jeffery to be informed that proposition must be in definite form, so as not to waste Committee's time. 35. Same.31/1/27. On behalf of Mr. Gallen, asking Council to attend to drainage of Foam Crest Avenue. Referred to Overseer Brooks. 37

Newport Progress Assn. 7/1/29. Asking that the Council protest and lodge objections to the application of J..C. Bulfin in Newport to reclaim and purchase an area of 21 perches of the Newport Lagoon, Newport  Resolved (Crs. Robertson, Austin) that in-view of the resumption and the proposed reclamation work in the vicinity, the Council lodge an objection.' 

21/1/1929: F.T Jeffery. 12,11/29. Respecting proposal to extend the reclamation of Newport Lagoon, recommending the acquisition Newport Lagoon of part of Lot 13, Section 6, Ocean Beach Estate, and offering the land at £4 per foot. Referred to A. Riding proposed reclamation 47,  Newport Progress Association. 14/1/29.. Also respecting and reclamation of Newport Lagoon, and requesting the Council co-acquisition acquire the whole of the lands on the ocean side of Barrenjoey road north of the present reclamation; also again drawing attention to the unsatisfactory condition of the public dressing sheds on the beach, referred to A. Riding Councillors. 48. Same. 14/1/29. Repeating the Association's offer to advance the money for the erection of concrete dressing shed at the Newport rock bath, on the condition that the Council refund half the cost when the rate revenue is available. Referred to A. Riding Councillors  E. E. Isley. 19/1/29. submitting petition containing 50 signatures for early measures to be taken to do away with the quarry at Newport and requesting that in the meantime the making of unsightly earth dumps &c be discontinued.. The council resolved (Crs. Robertson, Austin) - That that the Association be informed the Council regrets it cannot see its way to close the quarry, but will give consideration to using the matter in the dumps for the purpose of topdressing the beach....

ATTENTION is Invited to Notice In Government Gazette of 8th March 1929, calling for Objections to an Application by Boulevarde Estates (Newport), Limited, to Reclaim and Purchase areas of 8 perches and 2 perches on each side of the channel at the outlet Into Farrell's Lagoon, between the main Barrenjoey road and Ross street. Warringah Shire, parish Narrabeen. Objections. accompanied by deposit of £10, and lodged with the Metropolitan District Surveyor on or before 5th  April, 1929. will receive consideration. W. J. ROPER. Under-Secretary for Lands. Advertising (1929, March 8). The Sydney Morning Herald (NSW : 1842 - 1954), p. 18. Retrieved from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article28050359

F T Jeffrey – Bouldevarde estates advertisement- the 'Boulevarde Estate' was also a Trevor-Jones subdivision :

Advertising (1929, March 23). The Daily Telegraph (Sydney, NSW : 1883 - 1930), p. 23. Retrieved http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article245634126 

Newport Beach - The Boulevarde Estate 1929. Item No.: c050400067 Subdivision Materials, courtesy State Library of NSW

BEACHSIDE LOTS SALE AT NEWPORT

The Boulevards Estate, at Newport Ocean Beach, is to be sold on April 13 by Messrs. Hardie and Gorman, in conjunction with F. T. Jeffrey.

The subdivision stretches from the Barrenjoey-road towards the beach, and is handily placed for easy access to the surf and the "bus services which connects it with Manly.

Of the 47 allotments, seven are business sites, situated at a crossroad and opposite existing shops. BEACHSIDE LOTS (1929, April 5). The Sun (Sydney, NSW : 1910 - 1954), p. 2 (FINAL EXTRA). Retrieved from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article222707328 

POSTPONED SALE: NEWPORT BEACH LAND

Postponed from last Saturday because of weather, the sale of the Boulvarde Estate, Newport, will be hail next Saturday. Messrs. Hardie and Gorman, in conjunction with Mr. F. T. Jeffrey, will be the auctioneers. This estate extends from the Barrenjoey-road eastward towards the ocean beach. On its main road frontages provision has been made for shop sites near the existing business centre, and on an important cross-roads corner. Bus services connecting with the tram at Narrabeen and the Manly ferry pass along Barrenjoey-road, while another service terminates at Newport. Homes are already built on sections of this estate, which has a sheltered position in the lee of a coastal headland. Terms of sale will be: Ten per cent, deposit, and the balance in five years. ON SATURDAY (1929, April 17). The Sun (Sydney, NSW : 1910 - 1954), p. 2. Retrieved from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article222705206 

TROLLEY 'BUSES Suggestion to Committee SYDNEY, Tuesday. Before the Transport Advisory Committee to-day. Mr. F. T. Jeffrey. of the Newport Progress Association, suggested the use of trolley-'buses in order to provide faster transport and to effect economies. He said that by using trolley 'buses the Government would not have to scrap its present equipment. Such 'buses should be run from Manly to Narrabeen and Newport until a fast electric train service could be provided. The Deputy Mayor of Manly (All. Brady) said that the loss on the trams in the Manly municipality and the Warringah Shire was £30.000 in 1.30-31. The replacement of trams by gasolene 'buses was advocated by his Council. TROLLEY 'BUSES (1932, August 24). Newcastle Morning Herald and Miners' Advocate (NSW : 1876 - 1954), p. 8. Retrieved from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article136598993 

This Estate Agent, Frederick Thomas Jeffrey would, by 1946, have become the President of the Newport Progress Association, the forerunner of today’s Newport Residents Association, wherein he spoke up about the need to reclaim this area for the residents. 

F T Jeffrey Estate Agent Date of Death: 16/3/1958 Place of death: Newport

- NRS-13012-1-[6/10280]-PA 24581 | Primary Application - Frederick Thomas Jeffrey and Emma Florence Jeffrey (his sister - would marry George Power of Balgowlah in 1931), Parish of Willoughby County of Cumberland 08-11-1922 to 08-11-1922

Newport SLSC's history book 'The First Century 1909 - 2009' compiled by Guy Jennings, states:

Fred Jeffrey is considered the first Real Estate agent of Newport. Fred met and married a French girl, Sarah, in London after serving in the First World War. He worked for Fiat Motor Works in Sydney once they returned home but the work load caused his doctor to recommend 6 weeks by the seaside. On their eyes lighting on Newport, that was it, they were home to this place. They rented a cottage from 1922 at the corner of Bardo and Seaview roads. They had two sons and a daughter; Roland, Gerald (Gerry) and Georgette. 

Fred’s first shop was a 3 metre square fibro shack on the corner of Gladstone street and Barrenjoey road, with an awning he raised for sale s- of which, his first took 6 weeks. As sales improved he and his wife constructed a home at the corner of Seaview and Barrenjoey road, the same site currently of a petrol station. By 1929 it was one of the largest structures in Newport – a two storey home - upstairs was for the family while downstairs was a shop for the real estate business. 

Fred was Secretary then President of the Newport Progress Association – the forerunner of today’s Newport Residents Association, a member of the Beach Improvement Committee, a founding member of the Newport Bowling Club and a Life Member of Newport SLSC. All of his children were prominent members of the surf club.

Chief Secretary's Department,

Sydney, 11th December, 1934.

HIS Excellency the Governor, with the advice of the Executive Council, has appointed the undermentioned persons to the Commission of the Peace for the State of New South Wales, viz. :—  …. 

Jeffery, Frederick Thomas, Jeffrey's Corner, Newport Beach; Government Gazette Appointments and Employment (1934, December 11). Government Gazette of the State of New South Wales (Sydney, NSW : 1901 - 2001), p. 4363. Retrieved from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article223064594 

GYMNASTICS DID YOU SAY? 

No wonder the girls keep their schoolgirl figures. A little nonsense now and then fills in a moment or two as the quartette knew between events at yesterday's Bondi Surf Carnival. Falstaff would have given anything to pose as did Miss J. Howarth when life-savers Jeffrey and Evers, of Newport, gave her a lift in the world. Brenda Gibbon, the girl in the spots on the left thought it great fun. Of course it was. No title (1936, March 22). Truth (Sydney, NSW : 1894 - 1954), p. 10. Retrieved from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article169580577 

Votes For Surf Girl

GEORGETTE JEFFERY (21) pretty blonde chosen as the Newport Surf Life Saving Club's girl in the Princess of the Pacific contest. Georgette is a commercial artist, rides the surf in boats and on skis for hobby.

TEN minutes after Georgette Jeffrey had been chosen as Newport Surf Life Saving Club's girl in the Princess of the Pacific contest, 2400 penny votes were sold to start her campaign. She is a natural blonde with personality, aged 21, and has a soft coating of sun-tan. Many girls who go to the surf can't surf. Georgette can. She is slick with a boat, picks up a wave with the best of the club men and can handle the tricky surf ski. , She Is secretary of the local girls' surf club with a member-, ship of 70. Her occupation Is commercial art which she considers creative and far more interesting than office work or a sales lob. A combined meeting of the men's and women's clubs decided to give the Princess of the Pacific contest every support. The men are going to do all in their power to help Georgette to become Princess. Entries for the quest will close to-morrow week. Surf Clubs and hospitals throughout the State, which have not vet entered, are advised to be quick or they will be left in the trough of the voting seat. Votes For Surf Girl (1941, December 7). The Sun (Sydney, NSW : 1910 - 1954), p. 4. Retrieved from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article230961353 

Births: JEFFREY GEORGETTE 24759/1920 parents: FREDERICK T and SARAH registered at AUBURN

Newport Lagoon Reclamation - continued - Warringah Shire Council minutes form meetings:

62. A. T. Keirle. 1/8/29. Re proposed reclamations at Newport Beach, and suggesting Engineer point out on the ground to his representative exactly what work the Council proposes to carryout. Resolved. That the Engineer make arrangements for a conference as requested. 

November 4th 1929; Sydney Harbour Trust Commissioners. Same. 3. 25/10/29..replying that the Council's application for permission to reclaim an area at Farrell's Newport  Beach, will be dealt, with at the earliest opportunity. Received

July 28th, 1930 The SHIRE CLERKS REPORT was read and dealt with as follows - Items 1 and 2 relating to extension of electricity service beyond  Newport, and the existing electricity loan rate in A Riding were deferred till later in the meeting to enable Councillors to inspect the electrical Engineer's plan showing particulars of proposed extension. 12. J. C. Bulfin, 11/7/30. Stating he will withdraw his application to the Lands Department for a portion of Newport Lagoon if the Council recompense him to the extent  of £25. To be' requested to furnish a statement of his out of pocket expenses in connection with the matter. 

25th of August 1930; Resolved, - That application by made to the Unemployment Relief by Council for a grant, of a sum sufficient-to regrade, Unemployment reform and ballast Lagoon Street from one end to the other, and that the Shire Engineer, furnish the necessary plans, Relief Work specifications and estimates to accompany' the applcation as soon as possible. (Crs.Grcc-;wod,Ross) Resolved, - That the drainage of Mona Vale Flat be included in the application. (Cr8. Austin, McPaul) Resolved - That application be also made at the same time as for a grant for the proposed reclamation work at Newport Lagoon, excluding the construction of the outlet pipe (Crs. Robertson1 ilcPaul). 6. Manly Council, circular. Submitting, with a view of cooperation the following resolution - "That with the object of relieving distress, consequent upon unemployment action be taken to bring under the notice of the Government the advisability of investigating the circumstances of females employed in Government Departments, with a view to the retrenchment of those persons whose domestic financial status does not justify their employment in preference to males with family responsibilities and/or other females in less fortunate circumstances who are qualified to give equal and perhaps more efficient service." Resolved, -That the letter be received. (Crs., Ross, Austin)

Monday. 20th October 1930. -_The ENGINEER'S REPORT was read, received and dealt with as follows:_1. Resolved, That the Engineer's amended estimate for Newport Lagoon reclamation be adopted, and that a copy of Reclamation the Engineer's plan, specification and report be forwarded to the Unemployment Relief Council, with a request that the work be carried out as a relief work. (Crs. Robertson, Austin) 

16th of January 1933

Correspondence: herein.), It was resolved in regard to Newport Lagoon reclamation and drainage unemployment relief work, the Labour Department be asked to permit the Council to put on at least 20 single men at the next call-up for; the job. (Crs. Hughes, Nicholas) 

26. Newport Progress Assoc., 25/9/35, requesting (a) that ornamental locality sign boards be erected at each and of Newport Beach Reserve, at the beach, and at Newport wharf; (b) that either rails or a light be installed at the Ocean Avenue culvert over the crack in Ocean Avenue to do away with an existing danger; (c) that the Newport Beach stormwater channel be cleaned out the decaying vegetable matter becoming a nuisance; d) that attention be given to the loose planks in the decking of the bridge in The Boulevarde e) that the iZe.in Roads Department be asked to paint in black and white stripes the posts adjacent to the main road at Newport Beach; especially at curves and intersections. Council's decisions:- (a) Association to be informed there are no funds available for the purpose; (b) that a rail be erected, as recommended by the Overseer; (c) that the grass be removed from the sides, as recommended by the Overseer; (d) that the decking be attended to; (e) that the Department be asked to paint the posts, as requested. 

Alice Kuhlmorgan

Wounded Soldier and Nurse.

At a ball at Mona Vale, between Narrabeen and Newport, in aid of the Belgian Fund, little Patty Maley (daughter of Private Maley, who is now at the Dardanelles) appeared as a wounded soldier; and Mrs. Clamorgan's youthful daughter (whose brother is on the way to the front) was attired as a Red Cross nurse. Photo: Sweeney. Wounded Soldier and Nurse. (1915, July 14). Sydney Mail (NSW : 1912 - 1938), p. 31. Retrieved fromhttp://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article162494200 

The Commission for Relief in Belgium or C.R.B. , also known as the Belgian Relief, was an international organisation that arranged for the supply of food to German-occupied Belgium and northern France during the First World War. 

The surnames of these young girls seem to be be misspelled here - Kuhlmorgen rather than Clamorgan is closer to members of one family among those who was sent from Mona Vale, Newport, Bayview, Narrabeen, Warriewood and Church Point, and the little girl, in looks and age, matches members of the Kuhlmorgens of Newport. Two daughters, Ethel (born 1905) and Edna (born 1908) may be this young nurse. Three sons - Carl John, Walter Edwin and Harry Moritz Kuhlmorgen served in World War One. 

Their mother, Alice Kuhlmorgen (nee Bellchambers), who was a widow with eight children, had a brother also previously living at Newport with her young family prior to enlisting, William Bellchambers. He too enlisted and was sent to The Front.

Carl John and Walter Edwin both came home, both wounded. Harry and William did not. What was sent back to Alice, according to the records, was in William's case; 'Leather cigarette case, Handkerchief, Razor hone' - then later; '2 Post cards, photo, letter.'. 

A package is recorded as being returned as Harry's effects but not what was in it. He served on the Gallipoli Peninsula in October 1915 as part of the 18th Battalion and then was sent into France in March 1916. Pte Kuhlmorgen enlisted on 3 May 1915 and embarked from Sydney aboard HMAT Runic on 9 August 1915. He saw service at Gallipoli Peninsula when he was taken on strength on 17 October 1915. On 25 March 1916 he was sent to France and killed in action on 25 July 1916, aged 21.

Right: Image No: P04708.001, Maker: The Johnson Studio, circa May 1915. Courtesy Australian War Memorial Studio portrait of 1959 Private (Pte) Harry Moritz 'Pat' Kuhlmorgen, 3rd Reinforcements, 18th Battalion, of Newport via Manly, NSW. 

Harry was buried in the Gordon Dump Cemetery, La Boiselle, France. He was 21 years old. On August 23rd, 1921 Alice received a letter stating where he had been placed,  while in January 1923 she is informed a plaque has been placed on his grave. 

In this WWI Cemetery 1676 with 1,053 of the burials unidentified - UK 1582, Canada 2, Australia 91, India 1.

William was killed in France on the 5th of November 1916 and buried in the Bulls Road M Cemetery,  Flers, Somme, France. He was 37 years old.

On the 11.11.1920 photographs from the War Department of his grave were sent to Alice. This lapse between the telegram informing of 'killed in action' and ongoing turning up of letters and medals and photographs of graves for years after a loved one had been lost would have not helped with grief.

What is also worth remembering about the state these mothers and wives were left in is that the correspondence from the Australian Army of then would not allow these widowed mothers or wives have their service medals or any estate bequeathed to them, or any entitlements and pension due automatically - they always asked 'where is his father' as the rules then were that everything was to go to the eldest male heir of the family, even if that was an uncle in a different branch of the family living elsewhere. 

Alice was a widow with eight children. Women could carry them for nine months, go without everything bringing them up if their father had died early or abandoned them, weep forever after when they were killed serving Australia, but were second-class citizens in every other respect - a patriarchy still exerted itself, and lends further insight into why the 1918 Womens' Legal Status Bill was so important for New South Wales women and why Pittwater's Maybanke worked so hard to be able to divorce, and own property, and be in charge of the money she earnt, finally realised in 1876. 

Alice had three sons and her, then, living with her brother William Bellchambers, who enlisted and served. Her sons Carl John and Walter Edwin both came home, both wounded. Her son Harry Moritz and brother William did not. The Army was determined that any Soldiers Wills written by her sons or brother, leaving her their all, did not count - all was to go to her brother William. It took months, and in some cases, years, before these women received what had been left to them by sons, brothers and husbands - and all the while they must keep the home shelter and other children clothed and fed. Milliners flourished among these women, great sellers of eggs from chickens kept at home they were - but, some were still taken to court, bankrupted so what little they had could be seized and sold for far less than it was worth to fulfil financial obligations. 

All these widowed wives and mothers were eventually subject to the The Deceased Soldiers Act of 1918. 

As an insight, in Britain:

Within a week of the outbreak of war, provisions were announced by Prime Minister Asquith, which extended the minimum level of separation allowances and war widows’ pensions to those off the strength and to the wives of all volunteers. The Government had acted quickly in making the announcement without working out how these payments were to be paid.

This was to have repercussions for much of the War. In 1914, the machinery to administer separation allowances, and, as men began to die, war widows’ pensions too, was practically non-existent. The huge numbers who responded to Kitchener’s call for volunteers in the first months of the War meant that army paymasters in the War Office were totally inundated. They were also unable to validate many of the claims from regular soldiers’ wives; they had refused to acknowledge the presence of off-the-strength families (off-the-strength; men who had married without seeking permission to) and therefore had no lists of their names. Delays in the payments of allowances caused terrible hardship. Many servicemen’s wives were forced to apply to the Poor Law in the first months of war. Not only was there no administrative machinery, there was also no clear idea of from where the money was to come. The Government was loath to commit any but the very minimum amount of state money to such an open-ended commitment.

Therefore, although the narrow entitlement to the 5 shilling (25p) pension for the widows of regular soldiers, which was in place before the War began, was, in theory, extended to the widows of the men who volunteered, in practice, in the first months of the War, payments were largely inadequate, frequently late or non-existent. Widows and children of Kitchener’s volunteers were largely dependent on the Patriotic Fund for help, the Patriotic Fund in its turn relied on the SSFA for much of the work of validating claims, and both the Patriotic Fund and the SSFA had to apply to the National Relief Fund for money. Even when the state pension was finally paid, the payments from the Patriotic Fund were still needed to supplement the meagre amount given. The amounts given by the Patriotic Fund varied from 7s (35p) to 9s (45p) per week according to age and ‘the station in life of the beneficiaries’.

For much of the War, separation allowances remained higher than the war widow’s pension. The Treasury justified this by the fact that a pension might be for life while a separation allowance was of limited duration. They also insisted that widows’ expenses were less. This was because wives had to  keep the home going for their husband’s return, while widows were told they could move to somewhere cheaper. As Sir Charles Harris, put it:

The man who goes to fight is entitled to expect that his home or cottage, or whatever it is, shall be kept together as long as he is alive ...

When the man is dead it is in all ranks of society customary for the widow to move into a smaller house ...

Janis Lomas (2000) ‘Delicate duties’: issues of class and respectability in government policy towards the wives and widows of British soldiers in the era of the great war, Women's History Review, 9:1, 123-147, DOI: 10.1080/09612020000200233

In Australia:

DECEASED SOLDIERS' PLAY.

Complaints have been received at the "Herald" office from the widows or the dependents of deceased members of the A.I.F., to the effect that they have been unable to draw the soldiers' pay owing to his paybook not having been forwarded from Egypt.

According to a statement just issued by headquarters a new regulation is to be immediately brought into force whereby this delay will be done away With. It is proposed that within two months of the official receipt of the notice of the death of a member of the A.I.F., full payment, including deferred pay, will be made by the military authorities, and the widow or dependents can then come on the pensions list. This prompt settlement of accounts will also be a help to the various patriotic funds, as it will prevent the long drain on them that in many instances has been made before widow or dependents could obtain a satisfactory settlement from the military. DECEASED SOLDIERS' PAY. (1916, January 24). The Sydney Morning Herald (NSW : 1842 - 1954), p. 10. Retrieved from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article15638719

For the mothers of deceased soldiers who had not married and who had bequeathed their pay, pension and estate to their mothers, even after the war:

MOTHERS OF DECEASED SOLDIERS (1931, December 6). Sunday Times (Perth, WA : 1902 - 1954), p. 12. Retrieved from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article58653104

Edna Kuhlmorgan, 1922 Qualifying Certificate from Newport Public School

Kuhlmorgan children of Newport 1899. The eldest five Kuhlmorgen children, Newport, 1899 - Ruby Alice Kuhlmorgen is the baby in the photo. She was three weeks old. The other children are Carl, Connie, Elise and Harry (Patrick). Pat was killed in France in World War I. The children went to Newport and Mona Vale Schools. Photo Courtesy NBC History Hub

Kuhlmorgan family at Newport, 1917. A photograph of the Kuhlmorgan family in front of their house, on Gladstone Street. From left to right, Alice Kuhlmorgan, Ethel, ‘Topsy’ (Edna), Les and their dog, Jack. Photo Courtesy NBC History Hub

The gentleman after whom Dunbar Park Avalon was named:

Bowling man’s death on green

The New South Wales sales manager of the Australian General Electric Company, Mr. George Killigrew Dunbar, collapsed and died on the green at the Newport Bowling Club today. Mr. Dunbar had been with the AGE for more than 30 years. He was treasurer and a member of the board of management of the NRMA, a director of NRMA Insurance Ltd. He is survived by his widow. Bowling man's death on green (1949, August 6). The Sun (Sydney, NSW : 1910 - 1954), p. 2 (FINAL FOOTBALL LAST RACE). Retrieved from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article231050221 

Ratepayers protest

Ratepayers in the Newport, Avalon and Palm Beach areas will hold a special meeting tonight to discuss increased rate charges imposed by Warringah Shire Council. Ratepayers' protest (1952, April 23). The Sun (Sydney, NSW : 1910 - 1954), p. 30 (LATE FINAL EXTRA). Retrieved from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article230711009 

A January 1952 Bulletin perspective on all of us:

Pony Club at Warriewood Common now called Rat Park, Warriewood, c1960

Warringah Council promised to upgrade the grounds for the Pony Club but a new council of councillors were elected and they gave the money to the Warringah Rugby Club. The Pony Club retained only a small area. Prior to 1960 the Pony Club was known as the Newport Pony Club and met on the land where Newport Bowling Club is now situated – 

At the WSC Meeting held April 8th 1969:

ITEM 2 _NORTH NARRABEEN RESERVE _PROPOSAL TO FILL SECTION OF THE RESERVE WITH DRY RUBBISH Moved by Cr. Gray, seconded by Cr. Beckman, that representatives of the Warriewood Beach Progress Association be granted the courtesy of addressing Council on the proposal to fill North Narrabeen Reserve with rubbish. 50 DEPEATED. Moved by Cr. Gray, seconded by Cr. Creagh, that a home ground be developed at North Narrabeen Reserve for 'Warringah Rugby Union, by levelling an area the site of a football field filling to an appropriate height to be achieved by using material other than rubbish. DEFEATED A division was called for resulting: For:..... ADJOURNMENT OF MEETING. Resolved that this Meeting stand adjourned until 7.30

NORTH NARRABEEN RESERVE contd. Warringah Horse and Pony Club. Letter regarding: As a resident of the North Narrabeen area I wish to lodge formal objection to Warringah Shire Council's proposal to develop North Narrabeen Recreation Reserve by the rubbish fill method. This letter had been duplicated, and 151 copies of it had been received. ‘The Case for Warringah’ was a bound presentation by the Warringah Rugby Football Club; P. cope 0: which was supplied to each Councillor. Moved by Cr. Creagh. pursuance of notice, seconded by Cr. Gray, That Council to resolution naboalod in 'ism 2 eS the Parks and Reserves Committee, Report to the Special Meeting of Council held on Tuesday, 0th April, 1969;That the Committee adheres to its previous recommendation, i.e. that Council makes application to the Board of Health for approval of the ores of approximately 12 acres, shown on tabled Plan A6-4234, for use as a depot for rubbish disposal for the development of playing fields; be and is hereby rescinded, and it be resolved in lieu:;That the c,ire No: .er bring forward a comprehensive report on all alternative methods of filling the area with relative costs in each case, and that the Shire Engineer prepare a detailed plan showing levels throughout the whole area (including the level on the western side of Pittwater Road.) 9. DEFEATED. A division was called for, resuming: For: .... Against:_...

Fortunately, the State Coastal Protection Council formed in 1979 put paid to pretending dumping rubbish in wetlands is not causing harm to that environment and all those living in it, although that didn’t stop the sleight of pens to facilitate continued destruction. The  majority of people who seek public office in this country are doing so with the best intentions of their communities at heart, and that the public servants who work alongside them are trained to ensure continuance and adherence to laws and regulations - and yet it still drifts far from the obvious in many instances:

A Report to Special Meeting, 28th September, 1979 records: Further, commitments have been made to commence work on; Warriewood Surf Club, Cromer Community Centre, Elanora Heights Community Centre, Forestville Senior Citizens Centre (extensions) Narrabeen Lagoon Management Plan This unique plan, formulated from inputs from Council, Government Departments, Statutory Authorities, local environment groups and private citizens represent efforts over many years to arrive at a plan to co-ordinate all action in the future for this sensitive environment which is such an asset to the Shire. Already Council has accomplished tangible results with the dredging of Mullet Creek and areas of the Lagoon. The Coastal Protection Seminar held in 1978 has led to wide spread realisation of the plight of our beaches and helped co-ordinate action between Council and the Public Works Department. So far major works have been carried out at Harbord and Collaroy Beaches with positive public reaction. It is good news to hear that Cr. Rod Power has been appointed as local government representative on the newly formed State Coastal Protection Council. Council's action of manager of its, a'.'ea has been demonstrated in the formulation and submission of a development strategy plan for Warriewood Valley to the Minister for Planning & Environment. After extensive public participation Council has taken steps to implement changes in the area of administration of Council owned tennis courts through the establishment of a Tennis Liaison Committee. We have seen the first steps taken to establish Senior Citizens Centres at Frenchs Forest and Dee Why. Two cottages were purchased in Regent Street, Dee Why in late 1978 to give permanent shelter to the Women's Resource Centre. The Warringah Co-Ordinating Committee for the International Year of the Child has been very active in promoting special services, programmes and activities for children. Council has constantly recognised the necessity and appreciation of all the community groups within the Shire that help make the social environment that we all so much appreciate here. We have had receptions involving Scouting, Rotary, Lions, Zonta, Quota activities as well as Surf Life Saving Association reception and the presentation of the Sportsman of the Year Awards. We have also honoured the many Management Committees of Council (Section 530A/527 Committees) for their service. Administrative Initiatives 1979 has seen the introduction of certain administrative improvements ;in house; with the establishment of the...

Newport Oval environs: Winter of 2026

the Change rooms (sheds), store room and Kiosk

Where the water used to flow down from Bardo, Seaview and Walllamatta hill as well as along from Crystal Bay - into a concret drain:

in 2026

in 2010 - Newport Oval 2010 photos taken by Lana Prideaux-Remin for Mona Vale Library and Pittwater Council