April 1 - 30, 2026: Issue 653

 

Paradise Beach Public Wharf + Pool: Some history of 'Whispering Sands'

by A J Guesdon

Paradise Beach Public Wharf is one of the later public access amenities on the Pittwater estuary which cannot discount the power of the pool and swimming as the boardwalk which forms the northern end of that pool is the access way for the wharf as well. This is also another required infrastructure that stems from residents itself as the original pool structure was built by local residents before becoming the responsibility of the then Warringah Shire Council.


Funded and built by residents in early 1947, it wasn't until December 1951 that the council took responsibility for the maintenance and repair of the baths and wharf.

Paradise Beach 1915

''The hand-written caption by Nan Henry says it all – ‘Paradise Beach where we spent many happy holidays, 1915’. Difficult to recognise if it weren’t for the caption, the site has changed dramatically since these days. The ‘guest house’ was a popular holiday home for employees of Fostars Shoes in the 1920s and 1930s.'' - Geoff Searl OAM, President Avalon Beach Historical Society

The above holiday cottage was on Lot 32 when the land was subdivided. Mary Powell, and Charles Lloyd Powell, whose occupation is listed as 'Clerk', may have rented out the cottage to others during holiday times - a then popular way to lift income. 

Also worth noting in regard to Paradise Beach is that the gentleman so many associate with Avalon Beach, Arthur Jabez Small, whose father had served as a Councillor at Manly, spent at least a few years when quite young at Manly, and stayed in the valley of Avalon in late 1912 when he brought his young family here for holidays. They stayed at the Scarr home on the road to Paradise Beach - near where it slopes down from Riverview road (Scarrs were also Manly Councillors, father and son). This home was recorded as being the retirement home of Herbert Scarr in 1933.

SCARR-MAYNE.—May 10, at St. Peter's Church, Woolloomooloo by the Rev. T. B. Tress, Herbert Agar Scarr to Innes Emmeline Mayne. Family Notices (1893, May 29). The Sydney Morning Herald (NSW : 1842 - 1954), p. 8. Retrieved from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article13922485 

The land itself was originally part of the Thomas Warner land grant which was later acquired and became part of the land bought from the J J Therry subdivisions by John Benjamin Powell the 'of Waverly' on November 2nd 1894. Book-No: 870-546 states he bought this from Theresa Clementine Wrench, Widow of Edward Thomas Jones Wrench of Woollahra, and Copley Horne, Bank Manager of Armidale for 'a consideration of Two Hundred and Fifty Pounds'; £250.

Pre- 1905 Land Titles Map - Showing Paradise Beach lots'. Courtesy Land Titles Office Historic Records of NSW.

Mr. Powell's estate, valued at £4050.00 in land and several houses in Camperdown, along with others in Paddington and Forest Lodge that were rented out when he passed away, while on the estate at Pittwater, in July the following year, came under the care of his son, Charles Lloyd Powell, 'Landowner', in 1920 who applied to bring this acreage under the Real Property Act to subdivide and sell it.

His father's will attests the rented properties were bringing in around £250 per annum. His mother's will shows an increase in the value of the real estate held, although only the Camperdown terrace houses and the land at Pittwater remains. Their first-born child and daughter Anne, wanted £200 from the estate in 1908 to do repairs to the Camperdown houses, but the estate remained virtually intact, jut deriving income from the rentals, until years after Mary Powell passed away in 1920.

Even then Charles Lloyd Powell, surviving son, and his elder sister Ethel May, both executors under their mother's Will, took until 1928 to begin formally breaking up the holdings - possibly because siblings were wanting their share, and all were getting older.

The NSW Records provides: 'PA 29660 Title: Primary Application - John Benjamin Powell Parish of Narrabeen County of Cumberland, Contents Date Range; 21-08-1928 to 21-08-1928. PA 29660; Title; Primary Application - Charles Lloyd Powell 18 acres 1 rood 24 1/4 perches on Riverview Road and on Pittwater in Shire Warringah Parish Narrabeen County Cumberland Volume 4397 Folio 115. Contents Date Range; 21-08-1928 to 15-04-1930'.

Which is Lots 1, 2, 5, 6 and 7 on Pittwater, and Paradise Beach.

Primary Application 29660:

No. 29,660. Charles Lloyd Powell, 18 a. 1 r. 24 p., lots 5, 6 and 7, sec. D of a subdvn. at Stokes Pt., and lots 1 and 2J, villa sites, Pittwater Este., Riverview-rd., Pittwater. NOTICE UNDER REAL PROPERTY ACT. (1930, January 24). Government Gazette of the State of New South Wales (Sydney, NSW : 1901 - 2001), p. 302. Retrieved from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article223073565 

The Powell family also owned:

PA 29659 Title: Primary Application - John Benjamin Powell, Stokes Point Parish of Narrabeen County of Cumberland. Contents Date Range: 21-08-1928. PA 29659. Title: Primary Application - Charles Lloyd Powell 3 roods 27 perches in Riverview Road and on Pittwater in Shire Warringah Parish Narrabeen County Cumberland Volume 4304 Folio 207. Contents Date Range: 21-08-1928 to 24-07-1929

No. 29,659. Charles Lloyd Powell, 3 r. 27 p., lot 13, sec. A, Stokes Point Est., in Riverview-rd. and on Pittwater, ph. Narrabeen, co. Cumberland. NOTICE UNDER REAL PROPERTY ACT. (1929, May 10). Government Gazette of the State of New South Wales (Sydney, NSW : 1901 - 2001), p. 1988. Retrieved from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article223021057 

Powell's PA 29659 - some of this, a one-fifth share, went to eldest daughter Anne Powell:

The Certificate of Title for the 18+ acres shows the ‘Public Garden and Recreation Space’ bequeathed to Warringah Shire Council on November 18th 1936 (Deposited Plan 17910), and a later certification for Pittwater Council on June 26 1995. An easement for drainage affecting part of Lots 15, 21,22 and 28 DP17910, transferred from Mr. Powell to the council occurs September 1st 1936.

Vol-Fol: 4397-115:

NB:

Lot 35 (Vol-Fol: 4841-86) sold to Edmund Charles Treverton (1876-1949) of 'Darlinghurst, gentleman'. The property, called 'Redleaf', goes to his widow Minnie May in 1949 [nee Benson born January 31 1880 in Collingwood Vic. Parents : Richard Benson (1850–1938) and Mary Murdoch (1857–1935) - they married in 1903 in Victoria] and when she passes away on June 29 1952 the property is sold in 1952 to Norman Richard Benson of Lane Cove, Linotype Operator. 

Edmund Charles Treverton was a son of Edward Treverton (1829 - 1890) born July 1829 in St Mabyn, Cornwall, England , Died 27 Nov 1890 at age 61 in Prahran, Victoria, and Mary (Cock) Cox (abt. 1827 - 1923) Born about 1827 [uncertain] in Redruth, Cornwall, England, United Kingdom  [uncertain]. Died 1923 at about age 96 in Thalia, Victoria. His parents married 9 April 1853 in Roche Church, Cornwall. 

He is living in Bondi when this watch is stolen from him:

Edmund Treverton, 5 Wellington street, Bondi. - Gent’s Swiss hunting keyless silver watch, nearly new, glass missing, "‘Dennison, maker ” ; 9-carat curb pattern chain; round gold medal, “T.G.” in raised letters in front and “ Presented to E. C. Treverton for 15 years faithful service ” inscribed on back. Government Gazette Notices (1915, June 23). New South Wales Police Gazette and Weekly Record of Crime (Sydney : 1860 - 1930), p. 294. Retrieved from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article251647077

TREVERTON - On the 24th November, 1923, at his residence, 110 Westbury street, East St. Kilda, John, dearly beloved eldest son of the late Edward and Mary Treverton, late of 29 Trinian street, Prahran (formerly of Newtown, Scarsdale) also dearly beloved brother of Katie (Mrs W. H. Mitchell, Watchupga), Emily (Mrs W. Allan, Thalia), William Alfred (Thalia), Rose (Mrs. E. Canaway, Sydney), Henrietta (Mrs J. Beard, Violet Town), Edmund Charles (Sydney), Bessie (Mrs J. L. Tucker, deceased), Mary Jane (Mrs. W. Ellis, deceased), George Edward (deceased), Louisa (Mrs J. Thompson, deceased). No flowers.

He has fought a good fight, he has finished his course, he has kept the faith; henceforth there is laid up for him a crown of life and not for him only, but for all those who love Christ's appearing.

TREVERTON - On the 24th November, at his residence, 110 Westbury street, East St Kilda, John, dearly beloved husband of Jane Ramsey Treverton and loved stepfather of Thomas Samuel Dennis and Robert Hendry Dennis and of our loving girl Jean. No flowers. I will dwell in the house of the Lord for ever. Family Notices (1923, November 26). The Argus (Melbourne, Vic. : 1848 - 1957), p. 1. Retrieved from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article1997468

TREVERTON - The Relatives and Friends of the late EDMUND CHARLES TREVERTON are invited to attend his Funeral to leave T J Andrews s Funeral Chapel 42 44 Walker Street North Sydney This Day at 3 15 pm for the Northern Suburbs Crematorium T J ANDREYY S PTY LTD A F D A. Phone LA2873. Advertising (1949, April 14). The Sydney Morning Herald (NSW : 1842 - 1954), p. 16. Retrieved from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article18111233

TREVERTON, Minnie May.—June 29, 1952, at her residence, Redleaf, Paradise Avenue, Avalon, loved sister of Elsie (Mrs. Fitzpatrick), Lil (Mrs. Ladner), Evelyn (Mrs. Elliott) and George. Family Notices (1952, July 2). The Sydney Morning Herald (NSW : 1842 - 1954), p. 22. Retrieved from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article18271414

Lot 34(Vol-Fol: 4832-184) sold Feb 2 1937 to Thomas William Deacon of 'Kirribilli, Contractor', who sells on January 28 1938 to Edith May Speers, wife of George William Speers of 'Griffith, Jeweller'.

Mr. Powell sells those lots from 1936 on and then the residue of 12 acres and 23 perches goes into Vol-Fol: 4866-246 with sales continuing from later 1937 onwards and including ‘right-of-way’ paths between the Lots and ‘Paradise Avenue’ dating from then too on the Certificate of Title and map for these Lots of land.

Vol-Fol: 4866-246 (in full under Extras):

Showing 'Public Garden and Recreation Space'. NB: Lots 2, 7, 26 to 29 and 34, 35, 43 and 48 are already taken in the Powell land sales (above) and the laneways measuring 20 feet wide between the blocks on the waterfront at the south and north end of the beach to allow public access. Total area of the subdivision then becomes 12 acres and 23 perches

May 22nd 1937 - transfer of Public Garden land, registered in September 1938 in VolFol: 4965-245, measuring one rood, three and one half perches:

Mr. Stapleton, after whom ‘Trapper’s Way’ was named, was also selling the land locally for him, as his agent. Land is purchased in the name of his wife, Grace Ethel Stapleton, being Lots 15, 16 and 15a in December 1938 with the Certificate of Title registered in April 1939 where they built 'Kooka Cabin'. By September 1943, with the last sale registered to Lily Frances Lynch, of over 5 acres, all have been snapped up.

The March 2015 Pittwater Heritage Study states:

‘Another pioneer for the preservation of Pittwater’s landscape was Jack Stapleton. He was involved in the subdivision of Paradise Ave Estate, Sanctuary Ave, Shoreline Estate, Riviera Ave, Cannes Drive, Trappers Way, Capri Chase Estate and many others.

Notes from his daughter reveal that Stapleton always aimed to arrange roads in his subdivisions that would leave as many trees as possible to avoid disturbing the native wildlife and bushland. Stapleton built his own house at Kooka Cabin (now demolished), a rustic sandstone and timber cottage built as a weekender cutting offcuts from pine logs. The house was fully immersed in the bushland, designed with the aim of preserving trees and the natural context of the steep site as much as possible.’

Meg Johnson, a granddaughter of J T Stapleton, states:

My mum recalls Paradise Beach originally being called 'Whispering Sands' which I think changed when official mapping/naming of roads was happening as more subdivisions and new roads were built in Pops time as an agent developer in the early days.

One advertisement from 1936 states:

HOUSES AND LAND FOR SALE.

ATTRACTIVE SEASIDE LOTS. Must be Sold. 

AVALON BEACH.- right at beach, £100,

TAYLOR'S POINT, deepwater frontage. £150.

CLAREVILLE, PITTWATER, minute beach, £95,

CAREEL BAY. PITTWATER, right at water, £80. For particulars write or ring sole Selling Agents, J. T. STAPLETON and CO., LTD., 133 Pitt-street! Tele . B7806. 

REAL ESTATE AUCTION SALES.

DEEWHY. CORNER TOR and FISHER ROADS.

NEAR PUBLIC SCHOOL AND TRAM.

The Cottage Residence known as "OLENEDGE," No. 2 TORH-ROAD, Very well constructed of rusticated weatherboard, on stone foundations, containing porch, entrance hall, 3 bedrooms, lounge, dining-room, side verandah, lobby, kitchen, and bathroom. Detached are the laundry and garage. Grounds laid out in gardens and lawns, frontage of 40ft by a depth of 161ft. Torrens Title.

li OBEY, HANSON, and STRONG, LTD., will offer IX the above-described property at AUCTION. In their ROOMS. 33 THE CORSO, MANLY, at 11 a.m. on SATURDAY, 15th FEBRUARY, 1936....

TRUSTEE CO (LTD), EXECUTRIX and EXECUTORS OF THE WILL OF THE LATE ALBERT ROBERT BARNES.

PITTWATER, PEARL OF PITTWATER ESTATE.

Choice Bench and Reservation Frontage!,

1. VACANT LAND, being Lot 2. DP. 13291, having a frontage of 33ft to Hudson-parade by a depth of 240ft on one side and 200ft on the other .side .and a rear line to the highwater mark of Pittwater Torrens Title.

2. VACANT LAND, being Lots 22 and 23, D.P. 1329). Lot 22 has a frontage of 48ft to Delecta avenue by depths of 183ft on one side and 160ft on the other side, the rear line being about 57ft In Recreation Reserve, Lot 23 has a frontage of 3Tft to Delecta-avenue by depths of 183ft on one side and 105ft on the other side, the rear line being about 57tt to Recreation Reserve. Torrens Title. These lots will be offered In one line, and If not sold, will be submitted separately,

Messrs. S. E Cook and Son, Solicitors to Estate.

ROBEY, HANSON, and STRONG. LTD.. will offer the above-described Land at AUCTION, In their ROOMS 33 THE CORSO. MANLY, at 11 A.M. on SATURDAY, 15th FEBRUARY, 1936.

CLAREVILLE, Pittwater.-Sandy beach frontage 100 x 350, beautiful timber, worth £500, owner wilI take £300. No agents. 6942, Herald._ Advertising (1936, February 5). The Sydney Morning Herald (NSW : 1842 - 1954), p. 22. Retrieved from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article17322225 

John Stapleton and his wife Grace purchase Lots 13 and 14 in November 1947 Vol-Fol: 5830-31, sells two lots residue goes into Vol-Fol: 6779-103, being Lots 12, 13, 14 and 14A, but then one lot sold comes back to 'J T Stapleton' soon afterwards.

A little about homes in the vicinity in 1939, including Kooka Cabin:

Week-Enders That Grow
The week-ender idea is developing rapidly in N.S.W., and the reason is the intrusion of flats into suburban and city life. 
IT is quite conceivable that within the not-too-distant future all city, people will, be flat dwellers. And what then of home-life and a garden to potter about in? 

The week-ender is the answer, and the solution to the problem of happy living in a crowded city. An amazing change has'taken place 1 in the building of week-enders. Fast disappearing are the one-room, crudely-constructed shacks, with no conveniences. People are building houses to live in at the week-ends. Houses with electric light and refrigeration, with modern bathrooms and kitchens, and hot and cold water laid on. The general idea in week-enders seems to be to start with a small construction and extend.

Intriguing Examples 
Round about Avalon are some intriguing examples that have evolved into homes. Generally known as "the daddy of them all is "Trees," once a weekender and now the permanent home of Mr. and Mrs. J. D. Handley. "Trees" was named after the beautiful gum trees that grow abundantly on the hill at the back of Avalon. It was built around one strangely-grown angophora gum that inspired the quaint design of the house as it grew bit by bit. At first it was one main room, the walls and roof of split Douglas fir with the bark left on. Wings were added at either side, each with a walk-out on to a flat roof. Passers-by have often called "Trees" the "House of the Seven Dwarfs" because of the random stonework that Mr. Handley has himself covered the chimney and the foundations with. Every stone is water-washed and carried up in his car from the from the beach.

Another of Avalon's most delightful places Is the log cabin, Kooka Cabin, on the Paradise Beach estate, overlooking Pittwater,   where Lieutenant and Mrs. J. T. Stapleton and their two little daughters, Patricia and Margaret, spend most of their week-ends. The cabin was originally one room divided down the centre, and had a gauze enclosed verandah. The cost of the original cabin was approximately £275. 

A week-ender near "Trees" and in the Tree Colony is "Timbers," and belongs to Mr, and Mrs. A. G. Cable. It is a big house that has been built around one main room. It occupies three blocks of land . . . total cost £450 . . . and the initial cost of the house was £1000, most of that amount going into foundations for the steeply sloped land. The big main room, which makes a baby grand piano look quite a small article of furniture, has galleries at either end. Mrs. Cable has since added two wings with walk-outs from the gallery rooms to each roof. 

Just along the road is the weekend house with a wonderful view of Avalon beach through the timber.
This belongs to Miss Stella James and Miss Camilla Wedgwood. They bought four blocks in front of them to preserve the trees. 

A house recently constructed at Palm Beach of lined and papered fibro with tiled roof, all electric, with modern bathroom and kitchen, three bedrooms, a living-room 15ft. by 16ft., with flagged pathways and stone retaining walls cost £1200 to build, including £325 for the land; £100 was spent on furnishing it simply but adequately. To bring in some return it is let at £4 10s per week for a three months' tenancy. For short bookings in the peak period it, brings in £12 a  week. For the rest of the year it belongs to the family who owns it to enjoy their weekends away from the rush of  the city. 


"TREES", the house overlooking a timber-framed panorama Avalon Beach, considered the most original house of the northern beaches . . . it just grew and grew from a week-ender to be the permanent home of Mr. and Mrs. J. D. Handley. Mrs. HANDLEY is in the picture. Inset is the actual name-plate of the house, carved in bark.



"KOOKA CABIN", Lieut. and Mrs. J. T. Stapleton's log cabin among the trees at Paradise Beach, with Mrs. STAPLETON having tea on the sun terrace. Motorists on the road above, seeing the cabin for the first time, can never resist stopping their cars to exclaim on its charm as it nestles into the hillside. 



"TIMBERS," the week-end home of Mr. and Mrs. A. G. Cable. It started with one big room, but like, most week-enders, just keeps growing and growing. Mrs. CABLE and her sister, novelist DORA BIRTLES, are on the terrace.
Pretty BUNTY SCOTT FELL in her new season's beach coat of candle-wick cloth, has known many happy holidays at the week-end house belonging to her grandmother, Mrs. Arthur McDonald, at Careel Bay. 
F.S.D. OF HAPPY LIVING (1939, November 26). The Sun (Sydney, NSW : 1910 - 1954), p. 1 (WOMEN SECTION SOCIAL). Retrieved from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article231502146 

'Kooka' cabin sounds like the kookaburras that sing from the trees of Riverview road still.


Photo from ABHS: ''John Thomas ('JT') Stapleton pictured here with with his fiancée and life-long soul-mate Grace Chegwyn. They were married in 1926 and built 'Kooka Kabin' in Riverview road where they spent much of their lives with their two daughters.'' - Geoff Searl OAM, ABHS

On Saturday, 11th instant, the marriage of Miss Grace Chegwyn, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. W. H. Chegwyn, of Auburn, and Mr. Jack Stapleton, son of Mr. and Mrs. J. Stapleton. of George-street, Parramatta, was solemnised at St. Mary's Cathedral, Sydney, by Rev. Father Lee. The honeymoon is being spent at Tasmania. PERSONAL (1926, September 24). The Cumberland Argus and Fruitgrowers Advocate (Parramatta, NSW : 1888 - 1950), p. 4. Retrieved from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article104959540

J. T. Stapleton, ABHS photo - courtesy ABHS and Stapleton family.


The home known as 'Barling House, 4 Paradise Avenue Clareville', was listed by Pittwater Council as having heritage values due to its being an example of what was built then.

Warringah Shire Council minutes from meetings chart the establishment of the Paradise Beach pool and its boardwalk/wharf:

The meeting held November 3rd 1936 records:

7 Clareville 3. Re Reserves for Access on Clareville Beach Estate: Resolved, That the Council take steps to resume all the reserves on this Estate, and then make application to the Governor for approval to sell one of them to Mr. R. B. Penniman by way of exchange. (Crs. Hewitt, Hitchcock) 4. Re: Reserve described as ‘’Public Garden and Recreation Space’’ on Deposited Plan of Paradise Estate Subdivision, Paradise Clareville: Resolved, - That the registered proprietor be now required to transfer this reserve to the Council, & each party to bear its own costs in the matter. (Crs. Campbell, Hewitt) 

The meeting held December 15 1936 records:

3. J.T. Stapleton & Co.’s application To proposed re-subdivision of Lots 15/22, Paradise Beach Estate, Clareville: Resolved, That the plan be approved. (Crs. Hewitt, Hitchcock) 

And this is worth noting:

46. .V. Niness, 15/3/37, reporting that she and her friends have on three occasions been ordered out of rock pools on the northern shore of Avalon Beach on the grounds that the pools were on private property, inquiring whether this is so and if so, would the council construct crock pool at North Avalon for the public. ‘’Received’’ . 

The meeting held March 23rd 1937 records those who have purchased affordable blocks of land are living on them - either camping out or in the garages built - this would be a reflection of Australia starting to come out of the economic depression that commenced earlier that decade:

43. Replies to Notice's issued by Council respecting use of garages for residential purposes, viz - (a)H. E. Morgan, 19/2/37,. (garage in Palmgrove Road, Avalon) - stating he resides there occasionally at week-ends for the purpose of making additions, and requesting permission to continue to do so; (b) G. E. Tierney, 27/2/37 (garage in Paradise Estate) - stating he resides in the garage only at week-ends while having his ground cleared and levelled, requesting permission to continue doing so until he is able to build; to) Dr. P. Richards, 18/2/37, Garages stating he is submitting plans and specifications for proposed residence, requesting permission to reside in the garage in Plateau Road, Avalon, until the structure is completed; (d) Mrs. D.Rudoluh,24/2/37, stating the structure is not a garage, but a shed in which tools, tent and other camping gear are kept temporarily, stating she had permission from the Inspector to camp on the land pending commencement of building operations. Resolved:, - That no consideration be given to such requests until plans of the proposed dwelling houses are submitted to, and approved by, the Council, and a definite statement to be furnished of the date on which building operations will commence, and the approximate time for completion. (Crs. Hewitt, McPaul) Resolved, - That in future when permits are granted for the erection of tents, it to be stipulated that the permit is for a period no longer than one month. (Crs. Campbell, Hitchcock)

The meeting held on December 6 1938 states:

13. P. Sydney Nott, 29/11/38, submitting plan of proposed subdivision of part of Hollywood Estates Palm Read and Myola Road, Newport. Referred to the Works Committee for report. 14. A. Stafford, 23/11/38, submitting proposal for sub-division of Lot 48, Paradise Estate, Clareville. Approved, as recommended by Engineer … 19. Mona Vale Progress Assoc., 21/11/38, requesting (a) that each side of Gordon Road between Samuel Street and the Gordon Rds entrance to the cemetery be cleared so that cars can park there; (b) that one week's work be made available at Xmas for the men who are receiving food relief and men who have been unemployed for the past six months and are registered at the A. Riding Branch of the Labour Exchange; (c) that the Main Roads. Department be asked to expedite the completion of the of drainage work at the intersection of the main road and Gordon Road so that kerbing and guttering can be carried out in front of the properties of Messrs. Cocks and Pinkerton; (d) that Herbert Street be widened, it being understood that a new bus Herbert St. service is.likely.to use the road shortly; (e) that Council resume for public recreation and for parking purposes the property of Mr. Taylor, known as ‘’Taylor’s Flat;, Bayview Rd. Bayview. Council's decisions:- (a) that-one man be put on to this clearing for-about one week; (b) the Association be informed that this work will be given to the unemployed as far as practicab1e;.(c) that the Council requests the -Department of roads to do the Work; (d) referred back to Engineer for a further report; .. (e) the Assooiatjon.be informed this matter must stand :over on account of the Council's financial position. 

By the end of 1940:

10/12/1940:  J,T.Stapleton Pty. Ltd., submitting for approval under Council Seal plan of Paradise Estate subdivision. Resolved, - That the Seal of the Council be affixed to the plan on the condition that the Council be granted by legal document an Easement for Drainage over the strip shown on the plan. 

The Ordinary Meeting held January 8th 1946. 

By Cr. Forster - Can a light be placed between the two existing lights on the corner of Central Avenue and the turn-off to Paradise Beach? The President replied that this would be referred to the Electrical Engineer.

The Ordinary Meeting of January 22, 1946:

for leasing a property at Paradise Beach, and inquiring whether Council would permit him to build small boats on the property, necessitating the installation of a small band saw and circular saw electrically driven. Resolved, - That he be informed this is in a residential area, and Council would not favour such a proposal. (Crs. Forster, Dunbar) 

The June 11 1946 meeting is a landmark of sorts, although nothing seems to happen via the council at this stage:

43) Land Board Office, 5/6/46, stating that a petition has been received from 30 residents of Paradise Beach, requesting consent to the construction of a swimming bath below highwater mark fronting the public reserve, stating they are prepared to contribute £300 towards the cost, the balance to be financed by Council, inquiring whether Council desires to make application for-the baths, the rental of which would be £2 per annum. Resolved','- They be informed Council has no knowledge of the proposal, and that the petitioners be asked to make their representations to the Council. 

The Ordinary Meeting of July 9, 1946 records questions from then councillors that were answered in the affirmative and include:

Can the Engineer be instructed to peg the two drainage easements leading into Paradise Beach from Riverview Road at the River- view end; also, will the Committee inspect the turning-space at the foot of Paradise .Avenue, and the need for a short retaining wail and the extension for a drain pipe there; and via the Engineer have the dead stump encroaching on the road in Paradise Avenue removed?  By Cr. Dunbar -,Will the Works-Committee inspect an-alleged drainage trouble at Paradise Beach, and to enable this to be done, 

On August 9 1946: By Cr. Dunbar Will the Shire Engineer's report regarding drainage at Riverview Road and Paradise Beach be expedited? 

By October 1, 1946:

2) Cr. Dunbar moved - That the sum of £50 be voted for the construction of a stone wall at the foot of Paradise Avenue turning point conditionally on the residents contributing the balance of the cost and carrying out the work themselves, and that the necessary concrete piping be provided to continue the existing drain under the road through the turning-point, the residents to fix same and provide the necessary additional Paradise filling and labour, under the supervision of the Shire Avenue Engineer. Cr. Forster seconded. Carried.

February 4 1947 meeting records:

The WORKS COMMITTEE'S REPORT, as contained in the Minutes of that Committee's meeting held on 29th ult. was adopted, Cr. Forster recording his vote against the recommendation in para. Special 11+ regarding the granting of a Special Lease to A.C.W. Amory Leases of land between Clareville and Paradise Beaches.  (5) Application by F. Scharer for permission to build a boat-shed at Careel Bay: Resolved, - That the matter be referred to Buildings the Health & Building Committee for consideration of the plans. (Crs. Forster, Dunbar) 

Fred Scharer served in both WWI and WWII and settled in Pittwater soon afterwards although the family had been camping at Paradise Beach for years prior to that. His aunt owned land there  after the initial land sales and he would walk over the hill to gaze at Careel Bay. More on his time at Careel Bay wharf and boatshed is available in: Careel Bay Jetty-Wharf-Boatshed

The March 3 1947 meeting records:

Land Board letter of 13/2/47 inquiring whether there is any objection to the granting of a Permissive Occupancy to N. M. Waring for a boat-shed, slipway and approach off Paradise Avenue, Clareville. Referred to Works Committee, detailed plans to be submitted. (6) Same 14/2/47, inquiring whether there is any objection to the granting of a Permissive Occupancy to G.E.Daly for boat- house, with verandah and skids off Riverview Road, Clareville. Do. Referred to Works Committee, detailed plans to be available. 

A few weeks later the then Council minutes of meetings records Mr. J.A. Mackinnon has written (letter dated 29/5/1947), stating he has received a letter from a property owner at Paradise Beach, Avalon, requesting a donation towards the cost of swimming baths recently constructed at a cost of £650, that a subdivision plan shows the present location for a proposed public swimming enclosure, and that it is the general impression that Council decided to carry out the construction of the baths as a benefit to local ratepayers and visitors, and requesting clarification of the position. Council replied that the Council did not build these baths and was not consulted the matter.

Nicholas Hart, a descendant of one of these lots of land, recalls:

My family been here since before WW2 - my grandfather Bert Hart helped built Paradise beach pool and after his death my grandmother Molly Hart lived in Riverview Rd alongside her sister Grace who was married to Jack (JT) Stapleton, who was one of the original real estate developers/ agents and a real character. He was also known as Trapper John hence Trappers Way…

Albert Hugh Hart bought Lot 17 on November 24, 1938, with 'right of accessway' (Vol-Fol:5000-118). Albert Hugh Hart also bought another Lot from PA29659 in Lot 19 in October 1947 - (Vol-Fol: 5800-43; nb this is incorrect Vol-Fol). 

He also married one of the Chegwyn girls, a sister of Grace:

PRE-WEDDING TEA

Miss Lally Fisher, of 'Eastcote,' Rose Bay, was hostess at a pre-wedding party given at her home in honor of Miss Molly Chegwyn, whose approaching marriage to Dr. A. H. Hart will take place at St. Philip's Church, Sydney, on Saturday, January 28. Those entertained were Mesdames J. Stapleton, R. Tubb, N. Heydon, F. Mombrey, J. Mitchell, Walker, the Misses M, Rawlingson, E. Hart, G. Folkard, J. Doyle, I. Suffrage. PRE-WEDDING TEA (1928, January 22). Sunday Times (Sydney, NSW : 1895 - 1930), p. 13. Retrieved from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article122816517

They'd known each other for some time:

Farewell To Dr. Hart 

On Monday night, Dr. Hart, of the Parramatta District Hospital, was the guest of honor at the White Way Service Station, Lidcombe, prior to his departure for America. Flags and streamers formed the bright decorations of the hall. During the evening Mrs. W. E. Hart presented Dr. Hart with a travelling rug from his sisters. 

Among those present were: Mrs. Lorking, who wore amethyst taffeta edged with pink ribbon; Miss Lally Fisher, nattier floral georgette; Miss Mona Vidler, flame georgette; Mrs. Hart (Dr. Hart's mother), black georgette and lace; Mrs. Folkhard, floral georgette; Miss Mabel Siely, flame morocain and gold lace; Miss Gwen Folkhard, ivory and mauve beaded morocain; Mrs. Lundie, black satin, beaded; Miss Essie Hart, powder blue georgette, 'feather trimming; Miss Grace Chegwyn, silver lame and flamingo georgette; Mrs. Milling, biscuit satin and lace; Miss Tina Bruntnell, lemon georgette; Mrs. Willis, jade beaded georgette; Mrs. Jack Harti, cinnamon morocain; Mrs. Muddle, jade beaded georrgette; Miss Molly Chegwyn, sunflower satin, feather trimming; Miss O. Wilson, black chiffon velvet; Miss Gladys Chegwyn, pink georgette antd silver tissue;. Miss E. Willis,. sapphire blue velvet; Mrs. Chegwyn, black crepe and chine; Miss McGrail, navy blue relieved with grey; Mrs. Pratt, putty morocain; Miss Chegwyn, ivory georgette. Also present were: Miessrs. J. Rawlinson, Ken Crosier, J. Stapleton, L. Cash, Ken. Lake, L. Lorking, Clive Champion, F. Membrey, W. Hart, V. Milling, J. Hart, W. Turnock, Shaw, and C. Vidler. Farewell (1926, June 18). The Cumberland Argus and Fruitgrowers Advocate (Parramatta, NSW : 1888 - 1950), p. 4. Retrieved from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article104950930

The June 24 1947 WSC records:

Land Board Office, asking whether there are any objections to a Permissive Occupancy application by C. Jaros for a slip in front of Lot 47 D.P. 17910, Paradise Avenue. Resolved, - That the Council raise no objection subject to the provision of satisfactory access.

The Meeting held July 8 1947 records:

By Cr. Forster - Will Council approach the Education Department and the Traffic Department in an endeavour to provide transport for the children who attend Newport Public School and live at Paradise Beach Taylor's Point and Clareville, 'as apparently there was sc4e arrangement between the Education Department and a local Transport Company for some weeks past which has not been fulfilled? By Cr. Forster - Can repairs be effected to the Taylor's Point baths? The President replied that the Engineer would furnish Baths an estimate of the cost. 

At the meeting held on the 21st of February 1948:

Land Board Office 21/1/48, inquiring whether there is any objection to the granting of a Permissive Occupancy to W.G.Ward for a jetty, ramp, slip, wharf and bath fronting Lot 33 Paradise Avenue, Claraville. Referred to Works Committee. 

Finally, at the May 17th 1949 Meeting the local residents association requests:

(50) Avalon Beach & District Progress Assoc., 10/5/49, (a) stating the Association has received a letter from the Main Roads Department advising that it adhexes to the deviation across Avalon Beach Reserve, and now asking Council to take steps to widen the corner of Barrenjoey Road, Plateau Road and Old Barrenjoey Road to improve visibility at this spot; (b) requesting Council to undertake-the maintenance of the public swimming pool at Paradise Beach; (c) requesting erection of street name-boards in the numerous streets off George Street, Careel Bay, Cd) asking that the hole in the roadway in Kevin Avenue near Park Avenue be filled; (e) requesting erection of a protecting fence across the entrance to the old Careel Road; (f) requesting that grass and weeds be cleared from the footpath...

Nothing happened though.

The October 4, 1949 meeting records:

(16) Bert Oldfield, 26/9/1949, drawing attention to the condition of Riverview Road, Paradise Bay, his property having been damaged by a stormwater from the road, suggesting that a water- table be provided on the top side of Riverview Road, the drainage diverted to either side of his land, and that the surface of the road be given attention. Resolved, - That -the Engineer inspect and report to the Works Committee. 

The November 29 1949 states:

Land Board Office 21/11/49, inquiring whether there are any objections to the granting of a Permissive Occupancy to H.H.York for boatshed and slips at Paradise Avenue, Clareville. 48. Resolved, - The Board be informed the Council objects to any Permissive Occupancy in front of a reserve or public place. (Cr. Butcher) 

At the December 13, 1949 meeting: G. Simpson, stating he has no objection to the lopping of a gum tree on his property at 'the corner of Paradise and Riverview: Roads, Clareville. - - He be informed of the Engineer's report that this tree is 'on private property, and the Council has only jurisdiction regarding limbs which overhang its land,

Then, at the WSC meeting held on April 18 1950:

(23) Paradise Beach Swimming Pool: Resolved, - That the report Pittwater be adopted, subject to the addition of the words - ''but no Baths expenditure to be incurred on the repairs until a Permissive Occupancy has been obtained''. (Crs. McKay, Thomas) also in same meeting: ENGINEER'S REPORT was dealt with as follows:- Pittwater (1) Scotland Island - Recommending the acceptance of quotations from Mr. McTaggart, of Palm Beach, for repairs to the baths at Tennis Court Wharf and Bell Wharf: Resolved, - That the quotations of £261 and £179 respectively be accepted, as recommended. (Crs. McKay, Thomas)

At the July 11 1950 meeting another Paradise Beach resident is experiencing flooding problems:

Paradise (72) Win. Lieberman and Tobias, 7/7/50, on behalf of Mrs. Stewart, regarding damage to her property at Paradise Avenue, Paradise Beach. Resolved, - That the Engineer make an inspection in company with Mrs. Stewart. (73). P. Shermz, 6/7/50, regarding work carried out on the property of G.K. Cowlishaw at Darley Street, Mona Vale, and asking that the fence and bridge be replaced, and levels of the mound of earth raised along the creek on the north side. 69. Resolved, - That this be referred to the Engineer for an inspection and to have the damage remedied.

By December that year the pool and wharf are making the papers:

SAFETY QUERY ON TWO POOLS

The shark-proof netting at two pools near Avalon had almost rotted away, Mr. A. Baird said yesterday. Mr. Baird is a member of the Avalon Progress Association. The two pools are Paradise Pool, about a mile and a halt from Avalon, and Taylor's Point Pool, about two miles from Avalon. 

''Hundreds of people swim at the pools each weekend," Mr. Baird said. -- "At Taylor's Point you could drive a bus through the holes in the netting." 

Warringah Shire Engineer (Mr. L. Botham) said last night his department usually looked after the Paradise and Taylor's Point pools.

"The trouble is that galvanised steel mesh rusts quickly; and normally lasts only, one season,-' Mr. Botham said. 

"Difficulty in obtaining materials for repairs and replacements is our main trouble." ; "Positive menace" 

The secretary of the Royal Life Saving Society (Mr. L. M. Type) said last night that the executive of the society had decided to take immediate action on pools with faulty shark nets. Although local councils controlled the pools, the society, was interested in the safety of the pools in the same way as the Surf: Life Saving Society patrolled open beaches, he said.

"We will ring or call on the Warringah Shire Council about the Avalon pools tomorrow," Mr. Type added.' "If they are unable to do anything, then we will see the Minister for Local Government (Mr Cahill). "Human life is very precious, and the society is appalled at the state off these pools. ' 

"They are a positive menace to the lives of all swimmers, particularly children. "I think the Council should warn people not to swim in these pools." SAFETY QUERY ON TWO POOLS (1950, December 19). The Daily Telegraph (Sydney, NSW : 1931 - 1954), p. 5. Retrieved from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article248410964 

Paradise Beach 1950s. ABHS Postcard

Geoff Searl OAM, President of Avalon Beach Historical Society, who attends postcard fairs just to get these images, states:

''This quality Murray View postcard portrayed the idyllic setting at Paradise Beach in the 1950s. We’re sure the current residents would agree it is still an idyllic setting. It appears to be a king tide as the piers supporting the netted swimming enclosure are barely visible.''

The May 14 1951 meeting records:

Land Board Office, -/4/51, inquiring if there are any Occupancy objections to the granting of a Permissive Occupancy to E. R. Corben for boatshed and slip fronting Lot 46) D.P. 17910, Paradise Avenue. Resolved, That the Council raise no objection) subject to the provision of access for the public between the structures and the owner's land.

However, it is still almost a year longer before the wharf and pool are formalised as a council responsibility. Finally, during the meeting held on December 17 1951 it is recorded:

Land Board Office, 7/12/51, stating it has been decided to offer the Council a Permissive Occupancy for baths at Paradise Beach, and requesting the completion, under Seal, of the necessary agreement; the annual rental being £1. Resolved, - That the Seal be affixed to the document. 14) K. S.,Roberts, 12/12/51, stating that as a Ranger under the Fauna Protection Act and the Wildflowers & Native Plants Protection Act, he is concerned at the amount of sand and soil being removed from areas in the Shire, particularly near Oxford Falls, and suggesting that the Council give him authority to take action in the matter. Cr. Horn moved, Cr. McKay, seconding, …

The March 31 1951 edition of PIX magazine shares an insight into the tent home of Vassily Alexandrovich Prootkovsky at Paradise Beach, which, along with extra photos taken for this report and held by the Mitchell Library, The State Library of NSW, show us all those trees Trapper Stapleton tried to save.

This also illustrates the post-war shortage of building materials, when everything had been geared towards supporting defence services and personnel, and how many residents had to do the best they could with what was available to construct homes. For example, Doug and Joan Crane recall making their own bricks on site at Avalon in order to build.

Vassily Prootkovsky was born in Russia on 28 July 1889 and was commissioned as an officer in the Imperial Russian Army in 1909. Early in the First World War Prootkovsky served with the 33rd Siberian Rifle Regiment, was wounded by bayonet in December 1914 near Warsaw and by a shell in February 1915 near Prasnich. Later he fought in France before taking on a role as a diplomatic courier between London, Norway, Sweden, Finland and Russia.

A bitter opponent of the Bolsheviks who seized power in Russia in 1917, Prootkovsky enlisted as a Private in the Slavo-British Legion. The Legion, led by British officers, was created by British authorities as a kind of ‘Foreign Legion’ to fight with White Russian forces in the Russian Civil War. Its aim was to defeat the Red Army and force the Bolsheviks from power. When British troops were evacuated from Russia in 1919, Prootkovsky transferred to the White Army under the command of the Baltic German Yevgeny Müller.

As a result of his contribution to the Slavo-British Legion, Prootkovsky was personally awarded the British Military Medal by General Edmund Ironside, who commanded the Allied intervention force in northern Russia. With the failure to overthrow the Bolsheviks, Prootkovsky eventually made his way via Norway, Sweden and Germany to the White Russian émigré community in Shanghai and worked mainly in the shipping trade. In 1926 he arrived in Australia, where after stints cutting cane and gardening he began working as a merchant seaman on coastal ships. During that time he maintained his hatred for the Soviet Union and continued to advocate for its overthrow as a leading member of the Russian National Revolutionary Party, which ran a magazine titled Fascist. In Prootkovsky’s own view, his commitment to his party in no way compromised his loyalty to Britain and its empire.

After Hitler invaded the Soviet Union in June 1941 and the Soviet Union joined the Allies in the war against Nazi Germany, Prootkovsky came to the attention of Australian military intelligence. Although he had been awarded a Military Medal and his loyalty to the British empire was not seriously questioned, it was decided to intern him. 

Extract from the Detention Order for Vassily Prootkovsky, not questioning his loyalty to Britain but suggesting that he ‘is fanatically anti-Communist, and to a large extent pro-Fascist’. NAA: MP508/1, 255/742/557.

He was in Loveday, the largest internment camp in Australia in the Second World War, near Barmera in the South Australia Riverland from October 1942. Loveday was established in 1941 during WWII and at its peak housed 5380 internees of German, Russian and Japanese families.

In February 1944 he wrote from Loveday to the British High Commission:

Early in 1919, while visiting Archangel I was invited to the British Garrison Mess where General Ironside explained to me that I was decorated in the name of his Majesty King George V and that in future I would receive Great Britain’s protection in any part of the British Empire against the enemies whom I fought under the British flag … During my internment my teeth have been destroyed. I am on diet with duodenal ulcer. My eyesight has been destroyed and lately I developed heart trouble … I wish to protest before you, Sir, as the representative of Great Britain against such a treatment, which is in full contrast to the obligations made to me by Great Britain 25 years ago … as an ex-serviceman of the British Army I apply to you, Sir, for your assistance in my release and in the re-establishment of my good name.

Mr. Prootkovsky was released from Loveday in June 1944. After the war he settled in Sydney and Paradise Beach Pittwater specifically. He died in 1975 and was buried in an unmarked plot at the Russian Orthodox Cemetery in Rookwood. -

The Warringah Shire Council Meeting held February 4 1949 records:

Land Board 28/1/49 inquiring if there is any objection to the granting an application by V. A. Prootkovsky for a Special Purchase fronting Lot 4 Riverview Road, Careel Bay. Resolved. - They be informed that alienation of any part Of foreshores is contrary to the Council' s policy, but there would be no objection to the applicant being given a Permissive Occupancy, subject to the provision of public access along the foreshore. (Crs. Bayliss, Butcher) 

Houses adjoining Paradise Beach continued to be hired out at holiday times, as this report would indicate:

BOY, 8, SAVED

Manly-Warringah ambulance men yesterday applied oxygen for half an hour to revive an eight-year-old boy who was dragged unconscious from the water at Paradise Beach, near Newport. The boy, John Suttor, of Greendale Street, St. Ives, was swimming at the beach, where he was holidaying with his parents, when he disappeared.

A man dragged him from the water and took him ashore. Lifesavers applied artificial respiration until the ambulance men arrived.

The boy was taken to Manly District Hospital and treated for immersion and shock. Youth Drowns In Creek; Toll Now 6. (1954, December 29). The Sydney Morning Herald (NSW : 1842 - 1954), p. 6. Retrieved from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article18444052

The meeting held February 14 1955 records:

Application to fence off an area 66’by24’ at Paradise Beach Reserve to prevent cars encroaching on an area ideally situated for picnicking: A motion by Cr. McKay seconded by Cr. Jones, that consideration be deferred pending an inspection of the area,

The meeting held May 14 1956 records:

Application for a Special Purchase by V A Prootkovsky in respect of part of the foreshores of Pittwater near Paradise Beach: - That this be taken later in Committee.  and: 14/5/56. COMMITTEE OF THEWHOLE. The Council hereupon resolved that it go into Committee of the Whole. Upon resuming later in Ordinary Meeting, it was recommended that the action taken in briefing Counsel in connection with (a) Mining Warden's Inquiry re application to enter Portion 558 by Mr. A. H. Morris; and (b) Land Board inquiry re Special Purchase Application by V. A. Prootkovsky (as mentioned in the Legal Officer's Report) be endorsed. Resolved:, - That the recommendation by the Committee of the Whole be adopted. The meeting thereupon terminated at approximately 11.25 p.m. 

The newspapers and Gazette of then provide the insight he wished to buy crown waters and had applied to in 1948 originally, soon after finally getting to become an Australian. His 1980's Notice for distribution of his estate records he worked as a 'watchman' after coming to Pittwater, although his postal address is given as Clareville Post Office, then near the site today known as Clareville Kiosk, so he may have rowed south rather than walked east to Avalon Beach village. 

Those threads:

CERTIFICATES OF NATURALIZATION.

IT is hereby notified for general information that the Minister of State for Immigration has granted Certificates of Naturalization to the persons named in the sub-joined list.

T. H. E. HEYES,

Secretary, Department of Immigration.

...Prootkovsky, Vassily Alexandroviteh...CERTIFICATES OF NATURALIZATION. (1946, August 8). Commonwealth of Australia Gazette (National : 1901 - 1973), p. 2125. Retrieved from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article232893861

Sydney, 2nd September, 1955.

OBJECTIONS TO SPECIAL PURCHASES

IT is hereby notified that applications have been lodged for the purchase of the areas particularised below.' Any objections should be accompanied by a deposit of £10 and lodged with the Metropolitan District Surveyor, Sydney, on or before 2(>th September, 1955.

A. R. JONES, Under-Secretary for Lands.

Land District—Metropolitan; Shire—Warringah.

Special Purchase 48-53, parish Narrabeen, county Cumberland, of an area of about 10 perches below high-water mark at Pittwater, fronting lot 4 of deposited plan 19,402; applicant, Vassily Alexandroviteh Prootkovsky, Riverview-road, Avalon, c.o. Clareville Post Office. Tenure 55-4,064.OBJECTIONS TO SPECIAL PURCHASES, (1955, September 2). Government Gazette of the State of New South Wales (Sydney, NSW : 1901 - 2001), p. 2601. Retrieved from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article220387142

IN THE LAND AND VALUATION GOURT OF NEW SOUTH WALES.

NOTICE is hereby given that a Sittings of the LAND AND VALUATION COURT OF NEW SOUTH WALES will be held at "the Land find Valuation Court, Sydney, commencing at 10 a.m. on Monday, the 3rd day of September, 1950, for the hearing of Appeals and References in respect of which notices have been issued, and of all such other matters as may lawfully be brought before the said Court.

10th August, 1956. ' R. E. WALKER, Registrar.

The following cases will be heard

Council of the Shire of Warringah - Appeal against Local Land Boards decision of 25th May, 1956, and in the matter of an investigation by the said Board to consider a reference by the Minister for Lands in connection with Special Purchase application 1948-53, Land District Metropolitan by. V. A. Prootkovsky under section 68, Crown Lands Consolidation Act, 1913.IN THE LAND AND VALUATION COURT OF NEW SOUTH WALES. (1956, August 10). Government Gazette of the State of New South Wales (Sydney, NSW : 1901 - 2001), p. 2337. Retrieved from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article220389354

Department of Immigration,

Canberra. A.C.T.

27th May, 1965.

CERTIFICATES OF NATURALIZATION.

THE Minister of State for Immigration has granted Certificates of Naturalization to the following people living in New South Wales

A L NUTT, Acting Secretary

... Prootkovsky, Ekaterina Ksavenevna 139 Riverview-road, Avalon, ...CERTIFICATES OF NATURALIZATION. (1965, June 17). Commonwealth of Australia Gazette (National : 1901 - 1973), p. 2294. Retrieved from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article241020597

Album: Campers tame birds & animals at Pittwater / photographed by R. Donaldson. Date: 23 January 1951, courtesy Mitchell Library, State Library of New South Wales - showing the view down to Paradise Beach and the surrounds from Vassily's block:

However, Paradise Beach Public Wharf still didn't rate a mention here:

LOCAL GOVERNMENT ACT, 1019.—PROCLAMATION.

(l.s.) J. NORTHCOTT, Governor. 19th August, 1953.

ORDINANCE No. 35a, as proclaimed in the Government Gazette of 12th November, 1920, and subsequently amended, is hereby further amended in clause 1 by inserting under the heading "Shires" after the words "Coal and Candle Creek Wharf, Cowan Creek" appearing opposite the word "Warringah" the words "Palm Beach Wharf in Pittwater Park, Salt Pan Wharf, Taylor's Point Wharf, Great Mackerel Wharf, four wharves on Scotland Island".

(S. 53-787)

By His Excellency's Command,

J. B. RENSHAW. [7199] GOD SAVE THE QUEEN! LOCAL GOVERNMENT ACT, 1919.—PROCLAMATION. (1953, August 28). Government Gazette of the State of New South Wales (Sydney, NSW : 1901 - 2001), p. 2736. Retrieved from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article220068015 

These images show the quick changes between January 1951 Paradise Beach and that of a few years later, in 1955 and 1956:

Section from Historical, Aerial and Satellite Imagery, Paradise Beach 1955

Paradise Beach public wharf and baths, January 1956. family slides courtesy the Mitchell Library, State Library of NSW



Paradise Beach baths boardwalk-wharf behind this happy trio in April 1956 - family slides (Kir), courtesy the Mitchell Library, State Library of NSW


Section from lithograph for Riviera Estate Item c027560031h - 1957, courtesy State Library of NSW - from Avalon Subdivisions folder. Stapleton Park was established in 1957. Note the drawing includes the Paradise Beach Public Wharf and 'Baths'.

The WSC Ordinary Meeting of January 18 1960 records: 

90.By Cr. Brown: Will the Shire Engineer give immediate attention to the shoulders of Riverview Rd. from corner opposite Paradise Ave. to the top of the hill where it joins the extension of Riverview Rd. approximately opposite the tennis court, if possible widening the pavement by 1 ½ to 2 feet? The President replied that he would ask the Engineer to look into the matter

The September 10 1963 meeting minutes states:

85 By Cr. Beckman: Could the P. & R. Engineer report to the P. & R. Committee on the need for the establishment of a kiosk at Salt Pan and Paradise Baths? Yes. 

At the November 25 1963 meeting:

QUESTIONS WITHOUT NOTICE. The following questions were asked by the Councillors named, the replies by the Shire President being indicated alongside:_: Could a 'No Through' sign be placed on Paradise Ave., Clareville? 

The December 16 1963 records one of the reasons people started drifting away from these close-by estuary netted swimming pools towards the oceanside of Pittwater, and some of the problems then to be addressed:

Noel Ward, 222 Barrenjoey Rd., Newport, 5.12.63 applying for council's approval to hire out Malibu surf boards on Newport Beach during current sum-nr season. Stating a bronze medallion surf life saver will be in attendance at all times, adequate supervision will be given to ensure hirers use boards only in prescribed area, a public risk policy of £10,000 will be taken out with Mercantile Mutual Insurance Co. Ltd. 43 Resolved, permission be granted and a fee of £1 per board per season and surf craft regulations of council be observed; each board be registered and a public risk policy to the extent of £10,000 be taken out. Cr. Job asked that her name be recorded as being opposed to this motion. F.C.Jones, 26 Careel Head Road, Whale Beach‘,29.11.63 asking to be granted permission to be an honorary ranger as he receives many complaints re vandalism, dogs on beach and other happenings in his capacity as lessee of Avalon Dressing Sheds. Resolved,.that approval be granted

The meeting held on November 22 1965 records:

B.C. King, 103 Barrenjoey Road, Mona Vale, 16.11. 65 stating certain facts about a dog swimming in the Mona Vale rook pool on 16.11.65 and the fact that he had been bitten whilst removing the animal from the pool, - Council: 'Noted'. 

There were also new homes being built at Paradise Beach as the Lots changed hands that weren't the simple post-war make-do homes or the holiday shacks of the eras prior to then. One example is in this Women's Weekly feature form 1966:
HOLIDAY HOUSE AT PARADISE BEACH
Dr. and Mrs. Lochhead's holiday home at Paradise Beach, N.S.W. Above is the dining end of the living area, and through the open door the kitchen.
The "dormitory," which contains five double bunks, was intended for the children and their friends, but curtains allow the room to be divided into cubicles.
Living area, with large sliding windows over- looking the water and a veranda running round the three exterior walls. Stairs lead up to two further levels.
Photographs this page and page 1 by Ron Berg
Built at Paradise Beach, N.S.W., as a holiday home for Dr. and Mrs. Lochhead, this house was designed by Keith Cottier, A.A.S.T.C., A.R.A.I.A., of Allen, Jack, and Cottier. The rocky site consists of a long, thin wedge of land, which slopes up from the beach at a gradient of almost one in two and is covered in tall gums. The house enjoys particularly superb views to the west, overlooking Pittwater. Constructed almost entirely of timber, the house is set up off the ground on a framework of posts and beams, and within this framework are three "platforms" which step up the hill. All the external walls are set at least 3ft. in from the frame, which thus resembles a cage. The three levels consist of a ground floor, first floor (which is one full storey up), and a third level, the "dormitory," which is half a floor up again. The timber framework is exposed both internally and externally, the roof is covered with terracotta tiles, the internal walls and ceilings are plaster sheeted and painted white, and the floors are of polished tallowwood.

Picture at left shows how the house is constructed on different levels. To overcome difficulties of access to their house, built on a very steep hill, the owners had an inclinator installed.
PARADISE BEACH
Looking down through one of the "hatches" in the main bed- room, over the stairs to the living-room below. Extensive use of glass ensures that the house is always light and airy.
Main bedroom, which has its own small veranda (not shown). "Hatches" along the front of the room, with sliding wooden doors, can be opened for additional air circulation.
Photographs this page and opposite by Ron Berg
HOLIDAY HOUSE AT PARADISE BEACH. (1966, December 21). The Australian Women's Weekly (1933 - 1982), p. 111 Supplement: Australian Homes for EXPO 67. Retrieved from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article44555978

Another local problem, particularly on the estuarine side of Newport to Palm Beach, was the rapid loss of koalas due to cars, fences being put in between them and their food trees/annual big walk from one site to the other, and those who didn't stop dog attacks on them. Koalas once thrived in the trees around Paradise Beach as well.

John W. Stone on Koalas – 1967: "Avalon Animal Clinic would look after koalas that had been hurt. We used to look after the koalas once they had attended to them, had them in a big bird cage up the backyard.”  


John's photo from Thursday June 1st 1967 edition of Pittwater News - the caption reads 'An alert John Stone was able to snap this picture of an "Avalon koala" as it strolled beside his car near Paradise Beach.'

WSC's October 23, 1967 meeting minutes:

BEACHES & RESERVES. Salt Pan Baths Wharf. Repairs to palings and steps in progress. Worn lifebuoy replaced. Taylors Point Baths. Material for repairs on order. Paradise Baths. Repairs to netting completed.  Palm Beach. Beach erosion. Works carded out to prevent further damage to dressing Waralo loads of stone placed along beachfront to prevent further erosion. North Narrabeen Reserve. A further 60' limit. of 601' dia, pipes laid and  45 lin.ft. of kerb and gutter disturbed in process restored. Dee Why Beach Reserve. Cleared of sand and made ready for parking. Long Reef Beach Reserve. Cleared of sand and made ready for parking. Narrabeen Beach Reserve. Cleared of sand and made ready for parking. Fishermen's Beach. Maintenance attention to access road: McKillop Park. Access road shoulders tar patched full length. Harbord Beach Reserve. Playground equipment and seats painted. Dee Why Beach Reserve. Picnic tables and seats repaired and repainted. 

Those who grew up on this side of Pittwater or spent time cycling over the hill to swim at Paradise Beach public wharf and pool recall the diving board was great fun. They have wondered, being youngsters at that time, why it was removed.

This section from a Crown Lands aerial of January 1 1961 shows the wharf and pool, along with a diving board and a structure or barge in the water alongside these:

Section from Historical, Aerial and Satellite Imagery, Paradise Beach Jan 1, 1961 - diving board can be seen in north corner

The November 27 1967 WSC meeting records repairs to this board:

Bayview Baths. Life buoy replaced and box fitted with door to prevent interference with equipment. Toilet paper dispensers fitted in adjoining conveniences. Taylors Point Baths, Sharkproofing of seaward wall of pool completed and numerous palings replaced on side walls. Oysters cleaned off. Paradise Baths. Spring board repaired and bearer replaced under decking. 

The 'REPORT OF THE SHIRE ENGINEER SUBMITTED TO THE ORDINARY MEETING OF W11 WARRINGAH SHIRE COUNCIL HELD ON 18th DECEMBER, 1967' records:

Collaroy Plateau Park. Erection of cyclone fence around cricket practice wickets in progress.. Grasmere Crescent Reserve. Firebreak cut and ganeral clearing carried out. Avalon Golf Links. Maintenance attention given. Narrabeen Lakes. Dredging in progress. Stony Range Reserve. Maintenance attention given. South Narrabeen Beach. Shark alarm repaired and cover renewed. Paradise Baths. Sharkproof net repaired on seaward walls and south side, Paradise Baths. Repairs to netting completed.

While the January 30 1968 meeting records some form of non-slip material is applied to the diving board:

Paradise Beach. Catwalk to baths repaired. New life buoy box & buoy fitted to post on beach. Paradise Baths. Rusted sharkproof netting completely replaced on north side of pool and matting fixed to diving board. Careel Bay Reclamation Area. 10,000 turfs laid and 250 yds. of soil spread. 

The February 26 1968 meeting minutes records:

Palm Beach. New box line stand erected. Taylors Point Baths. Handrail alongside pool and seats in area repainted. Bayview Pool, Drained and cleaned on 24.1.68 and 7.2.68. 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. 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 top dressed, using 7000 sq.ft, of turf and 110 yds. of soil.

In the WSC meeting held March 26 1968:

Dee Why Beach. Surfcraft sign at northern end replaced. ;Dogs Prohibited' signs repaired. Palm Beach North. Damaged surf reel replaced. Careel Bay Playing Fields. Fencing around area and slip rail entrance completed and painted. ;Betsy; Wallis Reserve, Avalon. Memorial plaque erected. Salt Pan Baths. Timber pickets around pool and door to emergency lifebuoy box repaired. Paradise Baths. Sharkproof netting inspected and found to be intact around entire pool. Salt Pan Wharf. Five steps repaired. Bayview Baths. General cleaning of precincts carried out on 21.2.68 and 6.3.68, together with application of copper sulphate to all steps. 

By October 8 1968:

BEACHES & RESERVES. Whale Beach. 180 lin.ft. of la*; dia. pipes laid and backfilled, one sump and headwall constructed. Bayview Baths. Shell growth removed from steps and vertical rod sharkproof surrounds, prior to bluestone treatment on 23.9.68. South Curl Curl Beach. Following erosion during week ending 8.9.68, 339 c.yds. of heavy rock filling swilled and placed south of Surf Clubhouse. 30 new 4' x 2' posts erected along beachfront. 135' x 4' concrete footpath restored and broken sullage pit lid replaced, 9'x 6x 4*;, Taylors Point Baths. Timber palings around pool repaired, oysters cleaned off piles. Salt Pan Baths. Timber palings replaced, where necessary, and depth gauge marker renewed. Bilgola Beach Reserve. Rubbish cleared. North Narrabeen Reserve. Levelling carried out. Jacksons Road Basketball Fields. Guide posts erected and some levelling carried out. Iluka Park. Levelling carried out. Betsy Wallis Reserve. Rubbish removed. Paradise Beach Park. Leveller, seeded, top dressed, and trees planted.

Among the minutes from the meeting held on December 5 1968:

BEACHES & RESERVES. Appian Way Reserve. 24 lin.ft. of 24*; dia. pipes laid and backfilled. Avalon Beach. 8 guide posts and 4 ;Be Tidy; bins erected at northern end. Bayview Baths. Cleansing maintenance carried out on 30.10.68 and 13.11.68. Progress Park. Decking replaced in foot bridge across Mullet Creek, adjacent to The Crescent. Paradise Baths. Depth gauge renewed and non slip material fixed to spring-board. Guard railing along catwalk repainted. Mackeral Beach Reserve. Repairs to timber bridge abutments in hand.

In the October 25, 1971 meeting's minutes:

Cr. Beckman: 54. Could the Parks and Reserves Committee investigate parking facilities at Paradise Beach? Yes. 

A May 18, 1972 Crown Land Aerial shows the diving board is still in place, as does a July 22 1975 updated aerial done for Crown Lands, and another captured on March 29 1978. And then the diving board disappeared.

A few years later newspapers reported:

(COURT REPORTS)
Record award

SYDNEY: Record damages of $981,333 were awarded yesterday in the Supreme Court to a Wahroonga girl paralysed in a diving accident.

The award, the highest ever in NSW for personal injury, was made to Miss Annette Merryl Jamieson, 26, of Wahroonga.

Miss Jamieson became a quadriplegic seven years ago after she dived off a board into a tidal pool at Paradise Beach, Pittwater, breaking her spinal cord.

She sued Warringah Shire Council, which has care and control of the pool, alleging negligence. COURT REPORTS Record award (1979, October 12). The Canberra Times (ACT : 1926 - 1995), p. 8. Retrieved from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article110604707

The Bulletin ran: 

NSW Records hold the papers pertaining to this case as: 'NRS-12616-2-[18/192]-C.224/39. Title: Warringah Shire Council claim against Council for injuries sustained in diving accident Paradise Beach tidal baths. Contents Date Range; 19-09-1979 to 21-08-1986'.

This also led to a bit more focus on private estuary pools. The Town Planning & Building Committee TOWN PLANNING REPORT. of Wednesday 15th June, 1977 notes:

No: 77/236 File 5?? TIDAL POOLS – PITTWATER. There is a considerable number of tidal pools in Pittwater fronting and used by private properties. These pools are covered by Permissive Occupancies in the normal way for Pittwater foreshore development. Council's adopted policy (0.14. .11.68, T.P.Minute 6 for private pools) states: "Tidal pools: only nylon or non-corrosive mesh pools will be permitted, mesh size to be not less than 6" with the piles allocated to the Maritime Services Board requirements".  The normal material used is nylon fishing net which is to measure 611 LA (150mm) between the diagonally opposite knots of each mesh when stretched. This means that the undistorted mesh of the net is a square of approximately 3" (75mm) side. Letter dated 29..77 from the N.S.W. State Fisheries refers to joint inspections which reveal that many pools are constructed with material that does not conform with Fisheries and Council's Foreshore Planning policy. It advises that the Department of Lands has been asked to review all pools in conjunction with Council's staff, in order to obtain compliance with the requirements. The purpose of this report is to advise Council of the situation and to attempt to give maximum publicity to the correct 6" (150mm) minimum nylon mesh size for tidal pools. Net of this mesh size or slightly larger, if necessary, is readily available from metropolitan netmakers. RECOMMENDATION: Notation, and that appropriate publicity be given to Council's policy requiring nylon or non-corrosive net of minimum 6" (150am) mesh size for all tidal pools in Pittwater. PaN 24.5.77 244 COMMITTEE'S DECISION (15.6.77): That the foregoing recommendation be adopted, AND THAT a joint report be submitted to the next Town Planning & Building Committee meeting by the Town Planner and Deputy Principal Building Inspector on Council's considered position in dealing with these pools. (Crs. Huntingdon/Sainsbery) PAGE 3 MINUTES - TOWN PLANNING & BUILDING COIIITTEE MEETING SHIRE HELD 0N DATE 15/06/1977

The WSC's Ordinary Meeting, held 23rd November 1981 records that many of the former estuarine pools on Pittwater have disappeared and that the then Pittwater MP's efforts to restore these are rebuffed:

PRECIS OF CORRESPONDENCE 1.0 CATEGORY 'A' CORRESPONDENCE 1.1 PITTWATER SWIMMING AREAS (File 600) The Member for Pittwater, Mr. R.M. Smith, M.P., has written to Council suggesting the provision of eight swimming enclosures around Pittwater in 'addition to the protected swimming areas already existing at The Basin and Paradise Beach. He states that the public outcry created by the demolition of the Taylors Point pool raised in his mind the need for protected swimming areas around the shores of Pittwater. He states that last year there was a Bronze Whaler Shark caught off Mackerel Beach and his request for shark warning signs was refused by Council because of the cost. Mr. Smith says there have been many shark sightings in the period since he has lived in Palm Beach and to reject the possibility of an attack as remote would be foolhardy. 

The eight locations suggested by Mr. Smith for provision of swimming areas using floating nylon nets and piles are as follows: Mackerel Beach, Palm Beach near public wharf, Sand Point, Palm Beach, Clareville Taylors Point (existing) Bayview boat ramp, McCarrs Creek, Towlers Bay. In support of his request, Mr. Smith states that people swim regularly in all of the locations and it is important that protected swimming areas are provided. RECOMMENDATION That Mr.R.M. Smith, M.P. be advised that in view of Council's heavy commitments in maintaining thirteen rock pools along the ocean front and three enclosed pools in Pittwater, no additional funds are available for the construction of additional swimming enclosures in Pittwater. COUNCIL'S DECISION (23.11.1981) 1310 ADOPTED. (Crs Hummerston/Bradford)

Section from Historical, Aerial and Satellite Imagery, Paradise Beach - August 19 1986

A report to the Environmental Services and Town Planning Committee Meeting, 1st March 1988, records:

A. LIST OF APPEALS TO LAND & ENVIRONMENT COURT - BUILDING MATTERS NAME/PROPERTY MATTER LODGED COMMENTS 1. J Ward Appeal against November 1986 Hearing date 21 Paradise Ave demolition order awaited

The Committee Meeting of 27th February 1990 lists:

WHARVES 

Palm Beach A 

Church Point A 

Bayview A 

Rowland Reserve, Bayview A 

Newport A 

Taylors Point B *

Salt Pan A 

Careel Bay A 

Browns Bay A 

Paradise (& Baths) A 

Bennetts A 

Bonnie Doon A 

Mackerel Beach C  Work in progress 

East (By water to Scotland Island) B 1990 program 'I 

Tennis Court B 1 

Cargo B 

Bells B

Warringah Shire Council records end there – although it is clear Pittwater Council maintained the walkway/wharf at some stage during the intervening decades as the width and materials are not the same as those of  earlier photos.

Paradise Beach, March 4, 2011. Photos: A J Guesdon

Pittwater Council also received a grant in February 2015 to install the dinghy storage area, then MP for Pittwater Rob Stokes announcing:

Boost For Pittwater’s Boating Facilities 

20 February 2015 

Member for Pittwater Rob Stokes today officially opened the new Palm Beach Ferry Wharf and announced a further $1.4 million for boating infrastructure projects throughout Pittwater. 

The Palm Beach Ferry Wharf is one of Pittwater’s key commuter hubs and provides a vital link between the Central Coast and western foreshore communities. 

The NSW Government provided Pittwater Council with $1.5 million for the project which has extended the wharf and seen it become more accessible for larger vessels and disabled and elderly commuters. 

An additional $1.4 million has now been secured for further boating infrastructure projects throughout Pittwater. These Include; 

  • The expansion of the Church Point commuter wharf; 
  • Improvements to Rowland Reserve’s boat launching facilities at Bayview; 
  • Installation of dinghy storage facilities at Paradise Beach, Clareville; and 
  • The extension and upgrade of Bayview Wharf 

“The Palm Beach Wharf has been transformed into a modern and fully accessible transport hub,” Rob Stokes said today. 

“The former wharf served our community well but simply couldn’t handle increasing commuter numbers and larger vessels. 

“Our community is heavily dependent on the operation of our local boating infrastructure so extra funds are really important. 

“Rowland Reserve’s ageing boat ramps have become victims of their own popularity and improvements are certainly needed. 

“These projects will help broaden boating opportunities for local residents and make access to our waterways as safe and convenient as possible. 

“I’m delighted the State Government is continuing to partner with Pittwater Council to deliver vital infrastructure improvements throughout our community,” Rob Stokes said. 

Pittwater Mayor, Jacqui Townsend said that Council is very pleased that the State Government has responded to its advocacy for better water-side facilities.

“It’s great to be partnering with the State Government in delivering better facilities that will benefit the many recreational users that both live in and visit the area,” Cr Townsend said.

“Our boating facilities are integral to the lifestyle in Pittwater with many residents relying on them on a daily basis,’ she said. 

“We look forward to working with both the State Government and the locals to make these projects happen. 

“Wear and tear and the changing needs of our growing community all come at a high cost, and I’m thrilled that we can share the financial burden to upkeep these facilities with the state, avoiding Council having to pass on all the cost to our community through its rates,” she added.

May 2017, Issue 314 - A J Guesdon photos

January 27, 2018 King Tide at Paradise Beach Public Wharf - Australia Day Long Weekend. Photo: Neil Johnston

Paradise Beach Baths is part of the Beachwatch Program and forms part of each annual 'State of the Beaches' report. The State Government describes it as 'a 30 by 20 metre netted swimming enclosure on the eastern foreshore of Pittwater.'

The consistent Beach Suitability Grade of Good for the baths/pool indicates microbial water quality is suitable for swimming most of the time but may be susceptible to pollution after rain, with several potential sources of faecal contamination including stormwater.

Enterococci levels increased with increasing rainfall, often exceeding the safe swimming limit in response to 10mm or more of rainfall.

The site has been monitored since 1996.

The measurement of 30x20m is approx.. 23.72 perches

This is also a Heritage item: Tidal swimming pool at 40C Paradise Avenue, Avalon Beach Pittwater Item: 2270348

Pittwater Council's POM and data lists:

Paradise Beach wharf 

Located off Paradise Avenue, Paradise Beach, Avalon. This wharf is mainly a recreational wharf with nearby dinghy storage and swimming enclosure. 

Pittwater Council's inventory of Parks and Reserves records:

Paradise Beach Reserve - Reserve No.: 36 Area (ha): 0.1 Asset No: A11790 Location ( eg, street frontages): Suburb / Locality: Land Title Reference: Paradise Avenue Avalon Lot 2, DP 635433 vol.15403 fol.61 Classification: LGA 1993, Category(s): Zoning: Community Land Park 6 (a) Existing Recreation

A small strip of foreshore open space adjoining Paradise Beach. It comprises a grassed embankment with stands of remnant native and planted Allocasuarina glauca and Eucalypts. The reserve adjoins the beach, swimming enclosure and jetty. The area is also used as a dinghy launch area and there are excessive numbers of dinghies along the grassed embankment. There is a small carparking area at the end of Paradise Avenue that is partially within the reserve. Recreation Setting Category(s) %: Native Vegetation Type (s): Soil Landscape (s): Beach and Shoreline(100%) Beach and dunes Watagan.

On July 28 2020 Manly MP James Griffin welcomed hundreds of thousands of dollars allocated  in funding from the NSW Government to deliver jetty and ramp upgrades under the Boating Now program. Among the allocations was that to the Northern Beaches Council for 'Paradise Beach Wharf Upgrade Design, Pittwater - funding allocation; $20,655'.

During May 2023 the council commenced inviting feedback on its design. Features of the proposal were: 

  • Widened tidal steps, an external ladder and tie up location on the north side and widening of the wharf deck.
  • A new internal stainless steel ladder.
  • Raising the wharf deck and pool walls to keep them above water levels in higher tides.
  • Replacing the collapsing rocky groyne with a new sandstone block groyne topped with a sand coloured concrete slab. The groyne is proposed to be reduced 2-3m in length and increased to 2m in width.
  • Maintaining the heritage aspect of the wharf and pool by providing timber decking and timber materials on the upper portion of the structure including a timber waler along the top of the pool walls.
  • Long term durability of the structure will be achieved by using steel piles surrounded by black HDPE (high density polyethylene) sleeving. Timber fender piles will be used to maintain the heritage feel at the end of the wharf.
  • New shower and foot tap.


Paradise beach pool design with stairs leading from the beach. Artists impression. Image courtesy NBC

Just over a year later, reconstruction of the Paradise Beach tidal pool, wharf and groyne had commenced. Demolition of the old structure was completed by July 2024 and the timber work construction was set to continue over the next few months.

The council anticipated the project would be completed in September 2024, weather permitting.

The council Paradise Public Wharf and Pool project webpage stated:
'Staff have considered this feedback and have decided that the groyne will not be reduced in size and re-built. Instead, the groyne will undergo maintenance including a new sand coloured concrete top. A stainless steel handrail adjacent the repaired groyne is also being considered. The installation of a shower has been put on hold and will be considered in future if funding is available.'

'Due to its heritage listing, the footprint of the new wharf and pool would have similar proportions as the existing structure, to maintain its heritage aesthetic as well as minimise any impact to the threatened species of Posidonia seagrass in the vicinity.

Council prepared a seahorse relocation plan in consultation with the Fisheries Department. Both a heritage impact study and aquatic ecology study of the works area have been undertaken. These studies and plans informed a Review of Environmental Factors (REF) that was considered by Council staff prior to the works being approved. Appropriate mitigation measures outlined in the REF and Fisheries Permit will be applied during the construction phase to minimise environmental impacts.'

The successful Tenderer was GPM Marine Constructions Pty Ltd with the estimated amount payable to the contractor under the contract (excluding GST) being listed as $810 706.00.

A further October 2024 visit to the Paradise Beach shores showed the works had progressed.  

On Friday November 22 2024 another visit showed the site was deserted, the contractors gone, and the works looked to be complete - bar a few site tidying up tasks and the re-installation of the wharf's name - which was in place by January 2025.

Photos from before and after the latest renewal run below.

Paradise Beach Pool Renewal Project Update: June-July 2024

Pre- Renewal - January 16, 2023:



Pre- Renewal - January 13, 2024:








Renewal Under Way - July 6 2024:




Pics: AJ Guesdon/PON.

Paradise Beach Wharf + Taylor's Wharf renewal projects: october 2024 pictorial update

Paradise Beach Wharf + Taylor's Wharf - update pics of Paradise Wharf and Pool renewal, pre-renewal Taylors Point wharf + a few others of Pittwater on a Spring Saturday afternoon, taken September 28 2024

Background available in:

Paradise Beach Pool and Wharf renewal





November 22, 2024:

All that was left was the falling to bits plastic barrier marking off the work site, blowing fragments of the same into the estuary waters. 

All that's missing is the restoring of the jetty name sign for visitors to the estuary.

Some pictures below.

References - Extras

  1. TROVE - National Library of Australia
  2. The Historical Land Records Viewer (HLRV)
  3. The Mitchell Library, State Library of Australia
  4. Warringah Shire Council Minutes of Meetings Archive
  5. NSW Planning Portal Spatial Viewer - Crown Lands Aerials
  6. Geoff Searl OAM, President of Avalon Beach Historical Society + Hart and Stapleton family members
  7. Loveday Lives project, at: https://lovedaylives.com/
  8. Doug and Joan Crane - Profile interview, June 2011
  9. John W. Stone - Profile interview, July 2016
  10. The Clareville/Long Beach Reserve: some History 
  11. Early Pittwater Paddlers, Oarsmen, Rowers and Scullers: The Paddon Family of Clareville 
  12. Pittwater Roads II: Where the Streets Have Your name - Clareville
  13. Clareville Public Wharf: 1885 to 1935 - Some History 
  14. Careel Bay Jetty-Wharf-Boatshed
  15. NSW Government - Historical, Aerial and Satellite Imagery
  16. Stokes Point Careel Bay: The Shift From Warner's Hut In 1813 To Finisterre In 1924; 1934 Additions Probably Designed By Australia's First Female Architect, Beatrice (Bea) May Hutton - A Pittwater Rendezvous Site For Royal Sydney Yacht Squadron Members Is Still A Home With A View For Those With A Passion For Sailing 
  17. Avalon's 'Telford' Road to have signage about its Heritage 
  18. Avalon Beach Historical Society March 2019 Meeting: focus on Trappers Way by Roger Sayers and David Lyall, edit by AJG
  19. Boating Now Program to Deliver Upgraded Boat Ramps and Jetties from Manly to Pittwater
  20. Council's Draft Operational Plan and Budget 2023/24 open for feedback until May 21, 2023 - specific projects listed for Pittwater include 10.3m for Warriewood Community Centre - Paradise Pool and Wharf renewal design feedback
  21. Paradise Beach Pool Renewal Project Update: June-July 2024
  22. Paradise Beach Wharf + Taylor's Wharf renewal projects: September- October 2024 pictorial update
  23. Paradise Beach Baths Renewal Complete - Taylor's Point Public Wharf Rebuild Underway - October-November 2024
  24. Summer in Pittwater: January 2026's Aquatic Events - Full PON January 2026 Paradise Beach Album 

Pittwater public wharves history series 2024-2025-2026:

John Benjamin Powell 

John Benjamin Powell - Date of Death 28 July 1895, Place of residence Macpherson street, Waverley. He died intestate which meant his wife, Mary Powell, had to apply to be Administrator – eldest daughter Anne wished to borrow £200 on the estate. 

Edward Thomas Jones Wrench (1828–1893) was an Australian businessman and auctioneer. In 1860, he co-founded the wool merchant and real estate company Richardson & Wrench alongside his partner, Robert Richardson. Wrench was born was born on 11 January 1828 in London, England to Edward and Anne Wrench. He married Mary Ann Smith on 25 January 1851. The following year, the couple moved to Sydney,  where he gained employment at the Australian Joint Stock Bank. In 1860, he joined Robert Richardson to establish Richardson & Wrench. Mary Ann died in 1876. On 3 June 1879, Wrench married Theresa Clementine Throckmorton (née Horne), a widow who had five children. He died in Woollahra, New South Wales on 26 October 1893, and was buried at St John's Ashfield.

He passed away at Pittwater:

POWELL.—July 28, at Pittwater, suddenly, John Powell, of Parkhurst, Macpherson St, Waverley, aged 64 years. Family Notices (1895, July 30). The Sydney Morning Herald (NSW : 1842 - 1954), p. 1. Retrieved from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article13988807

POWELL.—July 28, at Pittwater, John Powell, of Parkhurst, Macpherson-street, Waverley, aged 64 years. Family Notices (1895, August 3). The Sydney Mail and New South Wales Advertiser (NSW : 1871 - 1912), p. 256. Retrieved from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article162673124 

NSW BDM’s record his parents as:

POWELL JOHN B 9075/1895 parents: JOHN and ANN – death registered at: MANLY

Birth (?):  must be circa 1831

His father passed away prior to his mother. There were several other men named John Powell.

...Ruth, 14, Powell, from Pittwater, with 250 bushels shells ...COASTERS INWARDS. (1846, November 18). The Sydney Morning Herald (NSW : 1842 - 1954), p. 2. Retrieved from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article12899849

THE FRIENDS of Mr. JOHN POWELL are invited to attend the Funeral of his deceased SON, John ; to move from his residence, John-street, Woolahra, THIS (Thursday) AFTERNOON, at a quarter-past 2 o'clock, to the Necropolis. W. J. DIXON, Undertaker, 21, Oxford-street, and 121, York-street. Family Notices (1874, December 3). The Sydney Morning Herald (NSW : 1842 - 1954), p. 12. Retrieved from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article30943086 

NSW BDM's lists several John Powells: 

POWELL JOHN 6609/1867 WILLIAM MARGARET NEWCASTLE

POWELL JOHN 5517/1860 AGE 74 YEARS DIED PENRITH PENRITH

POWELL JOHN 2763/1874 parents JOHN MARY PADDINGTON

POWELL JOHN7256/1874 AGE 85 YEARS DIED PARRAMATTA PARRAMATTA

POWELL JOHN 3308/1873 AGE 64 YEARS DIED BATHURSTBATHURST

 POWELL JOHN J702/1872 CHARLOTTE SYDNEY

POWELL JOHN 3752/1880 AGE 69 YEARS DIED PADDINGTON PADDINGTON

John Powell, for allowing a nuisance to remain on his premises at Paddington, was sentenced to pay a fine of £2 with costs.  ..POLICE COURTS. (1876, March 8). Evening News (Sydney, NSW : 1869 - 1931), p. 3. Retrieved from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article107191749

Mother passed away in:

In the Supreme Court of New South. Wales.

ECCLESIASTICAL JURISDICTION.

In the will of Ann Powell, late of the Glebe, near Sydney, in the Colony of New South Wales, widow, deceased.

NOTICE is hereby given, that after the expiration of fourteen days from the publication hereof in the Government Gazette of New South Wales, application will be made to this Honorable Court, in its Ecclesiastical Jurisdiction, that probate of the last will and testament of Ann Powell, late of the Glebe, near Sydney, in the said Colony, may be granted to John Powell and Elizabeth Powell, the executor and executrix named in the will of the abovenamed deceased.—Dated this 28th day of December, a.d. 1876.

WILLIAM WHALEY BILLYARD,

32, Hunter-street, Sydney. ECCLESIASTICAL JURISDICTION. (1876, December 29). New South Wales Government Gazette (Sydney, NSW : 1832 - 1900), p. 5252. Retrieved from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article223099608

NSW BDM's: POWELL ANN 2827/1876 Parents: THOMAS and ELIZABETH registered at GLEBE

POWELL-HARPUR.— April 17, at St. Joseph's Church, Woollahra, by the Rev. Father Leeming, John, eldest son of Mr. J. Powell, to Ellen, second daughter of Mr. E. Harper, Richmond. Family Notices (1876, May 1). Evening News (Sydney, NSW : 1869 - 1931), p. 2. Retrieved from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article107185760 

ROGERS — POWELL. —June 5, at St. Joseph's Church, Woollahra, by the Rev. Father Leeming, Patrick, the youngest son of Mr. Francis Rogers, to Elizabeth, second daughter of Mr. John Powell, of Paddington, Sydney. Family Notices (1876, August 5). The Sydney Morning Herald (NSW : 1842 - 1954), p. 1. Retrieved from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article13377775 

THE Friends of Mr. JOHN POWELL are kindly invited to attend his Funeral; to move from his late residence, Parkhurst, Macpherson-st., Waverley. THIS (TUESDAY) AFTERNOON, at 3.15, for Waverley Cemetery. WOOD and COMPANY, Undertakers and Embalmers. 799 George-st., Sydney; with branches at Balmain (North and South), Petersham, North Sydney, Leichhardt, and Pyrmont. Telephones: 726, Sydney;5. Balmain; 22, Petersham; 9. North Sydney. Family Notices (1895, July 30). The Daily Telegraph (Sydney, NSW : 1883 - 1930), p. 8. Retrieved from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article238519742 

Charles Lloyd Powell born January 6 1882 at Newtown - died October 27, 1961. Married in 1922 at Petersham to Jean Rose Marie Webster,   b. 13 Jun 1895, Wilcannia, d. 5 May 1980, Sydney (Age 84 years).

Born; POWELL CHARLES LLOYD 6376/1882 to JOHN B and MARY registered at NEWTOWN

Passes away: POWELL CHARLES LLOYD 28657/1961  JOHN MARY registered at SYDNEY

Born same year: POWELL ELIZABETH LLOYD 6375/1882 JOHN B MARY NEWTOWN so either twins or born early in year and a child born later same year

Children of John B and Mary Ann:

POWELL ANNIE 4498/1876  JOHN MARY NEWTOWN

POWELL ETHEL MAY 4720/1878  JOHN BENJAMIN MARY NEWTOWN

POWELL BEATRICE B 5395/1879  JOHN B MARY NEWTOWN

POWELL BENJAMIN LLOYD 5727/1880 parents: JOHN BENJAMIN and MARY at NEWTOWN

POWELL CHARLES LLOYD 6376/1882

POWELL LUCY 7956/1885  JOHN B MARY at NEWTOWN

POWELL ANNIE 316/1889  JOHN MARY SYDNEY

Marriage (?)

1024/1871 POWELL JOHN to HANNIGAN MARY at SYDNEY

178/1876 POWELL JOHN to CLARKE MARY SYDNEY

And who is this – a sister of John B?: POWELL.—January 27, at her residence, Parkhurst, Macpherson-street, Waverley, Elizabeth Powell, aged 67 years. Family Notices (1896, January 28). The Sydney Morning Herald (NSW : 1842 - 1954), p. 1. Retrieved from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article14034846 

THROWN FROM A TAXI-CAB.

At the City Coroner's Court yesterday, the Acting City Coroner (Mr. H. S. Hawkins) held an inquiry into the death of Benjamin Lloyd Powell, who was fatally injured by being thrown from a taxi-cab near the Spit, Middle Harbour, on December 4. Mr. C. Mosley ap-peared for the relatives of deceased.

Barrett, driver of the taxi-cab, stated that deceased came to him on the day in question and asked to be taken to Manly. He was slightly under the influence of liquor. He was taken to Manly, and later was driven towards town. When between Manly and the Spit, deceased asked to be taken on to the front seat, and was allowed to sit there. After crossing on the punt at Middle Harbour, the motor skidded on some loose sand, and deceased was thrown out on to his head. Deceased was shouting something to a passing car when the skid occurred. Anybody leaning out of the car at the time of the skid might have been thrown out.

Death was due to a fracture of the base of the skull, and a verdict of accidental death was returned. THROWN FROM A TAXI-CAB. (1911, December 14). The Sydney Morning Herald (NSW : 1842 - 1954), p. 10. Retrieved from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article15296444

FARMER'S FATAL TAXI RIDE.

Mr. H. S. Hawkins held an Inquest at the City Coroner's Court concerning the death of Benjamin Lloyd Powell, a farmer, who was killed by being thrown from a taxi-cab at the Spit, Mosman, on December 4. Charles Lloyd Powell, a clerk, living at 50 M'Pherson-street, Waverley, said his brother was usually of temperate habits. Witness last saw him alive at 2.30 p.m. on December 4. He was then perfectly sober, and in the best of health. He had booked seats tor the theatre for that night. He was a farmer by occupation. 

William Henry Barrett, a chauffeur, and a Housed taxi-cab driver, living at 136 New South Head road, Paddington, said Benjamin Lloyd Powell came to him on the Martin Place rank about 3.30 a.m. on December 4, and said the other chauffeurs had refused to take him, as they were then too busy. He was lightly under the Influence of drink. He told witness he wanted to go to Manly, and would wait there for an hour or an hour and a half. He would then, be explained, bring two or three people back with him. They drove to the North Steyne Hotel, and Powell then paid witness 30., the price agreed upon. They went to a house, and spoke to an elderly lady. They then drove to the North Steyne Hotel and had a drink. On the way home he asked witness to allow him to sit on the front seat. He did so, and after crossing the Spit punt the car skidded In a loose patch of sand. The taxi swerved, and Powell was thrown to the roadway. A number of people arrived on the scene, and he was put back in the car, and witness moved him to Dr. Mason's surgery. Dr. Mason was out, and the Injured man was taken to the Royal North Shore Hospital. Witness went on and reported the matter to a traffic constable at Circular Quay. Witness was not travelling at more than 18 mile, an hour. Further evidence of a corroborative character, was given, and Dr. Palmer, who made a post mortem examination of the body, deposed that a long fracture of the skull was the cause of death, which occurred soon after his admission to the hospital. A verdict of accidental death was recorded. FARMER'S FATAL TAXI RIDE. (1911, December 14). Evening News (Sydney, NSW : 1869 - 1931), p. 6. Retrieved from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article115279255

POWELL.—December 4, 1911, Benjamin Lloyd, elder son of the late John Powell and Mrs. Powell, of Parkhurst, Waverley, accidentally killed at North Sydney. Family Notices (1911, December 9). The Sydney Morning Herald (NSW : 1842 - 1954), p. 22. Retrieved from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article15295310

Mary Powell passes away March 11 1920 and leaves Charles and daughter Ethel May in charge of her estate:

POWELL.—The Interment of the late Mrs. MARY POWELL, late of Parkhurst Macpherson street, Waverly, will take place at the Waverly Cemetery This (Friday) AFTERNOON, at 1.45. Family Notices (1920, March 12). The Sydney Morning Herald (NSW : 1842 - 1954), p. 7. Retrieved from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article15868681

'Parkhurst' is described as a two-storey weatherboard house at 50 Macpherson Street, overlooking Bronte Beach. An advertisement in 1919 to demolish this describes it as such, although this may not have gone ahead - worth noting is this, as this place may have rented out rooms as well;

Maxwell Francis OAKES
Regimental number 2692
Place of birth Sydney New South Wales
Religion No religion
Occupation Reporter
Marital status Single
Age at embarkation 21
Next of kin: Mrs Mary Powell, 'Parkhurst', McPherson Street, Waverley, Sydney, New South Wales
Enlistment date 29 August 1914
Date of enlistment from Nominal Roll 1 September 1914
Rank on enlistment Driver
Unit name Divisional Ammunition Column
Embarkation details Unit embarked from Brisbane, Queensland, on board HMAT A22 Rangatira on 25 September 1914
Rank from Nominal Roll Driver
Unit from Nominal Roll 2nd Field Artillery Brigade
Recommendations (Medals and Awards): Military Medal
Recommendation date: Unspecified
Fate Killed in Action 27 October 1916
Place of burial Thistle Dump Cemetery (Row E, Grave No. 13), Longueval, France. Panel number, Roll of Honour,  Australian War Memorial 12
Medals: Military Medal - Source: 'Commonwealth Gazette' No. 62, Date: 19 April 1917

Vassily Prootkovsky

Vassily Prootkovsky was born in Russia on 28 July 1889 and was commissioned as an officer in the Imperial Russian Army in 1909. Early in the First World War Prootkovsky served with the 33rd Siberian Rifle Regiment, was wounded by bayonet in December 1914 near Warsaw and by a shell in February 1915 near Prasnich. Later he fought in France before taking on a role as a diplomatic courier between London, Norway, Sweden, Finland and Russia.

A bitter opponent of the Bolsheviks who seized power in Russia in 1917, Prootkovsky enlisted as a Private in the Slavo-British Legion. The Legion, led by British officers, was created by British authorities as a kind of ‘Foreign Legion’ to fight with White Russian forces in the Russian Civil War. Its aim was to defeat the Red Army and force the Bolsheviks from power. When British troops were evacuated from Russia in 1919, Prootkovsky transferred to the White Army under the command of the Baltic German Yevgeny Müller.

As a result of his contribution to the Slavo-British Legion, Prootkovsky was personally awarded the British Military Medal by General Edmund Ironside, who commanded the Allied intervention force in northern Russia. With the failure to overthrow the Bolsheviks, Prootkovsky eventually made his way via Norway, Sweden and Germany to the White Russian emigre community in Shanghai and worked mainly in the shipping trade. In 1926 he arrived in Australia, where after stints cutting cane and gardening he began working as a merchant seaman on coastal ships. During that time he maintained his hatred for the Soviet Union and continued to advocate for its overthrow as a leading member of the Russian National Revolutionary Party, which ran a magazine titled Fascist. In Prootkovsky’s own view, his commitment to his party in no way compromised his loyalty to Britain and its empire.

After Hitler invaded the Soviet Union in June 1941 and the Soviet Union joined the Allies in the war against Nazi Germany, Prootkovsky came to the attention of Australian military intelligence. Although he had been awarded a Military Medal and his loyalty to the British empire was not seriously questioned, it was decided to intern him. He was in Loveday from October 1942. In February 1944 he wrote from Loveday to the British High Commission:

Early in 1919, while visiting Archangel I was invited to the British Garrison Mess where General Ironside explained to me that I was decorated in the name of his Majesty King George V and that in future I would receive Great Britain’s protection in any part of the British Empire against the enemies whom I fought under the British flag … During my internment my teeth have been destroyed. I am on diet with duodenal ulcer. My eyesight has been destroyed and lately I developed heart trouble … I wish to protest before you, Sir, as the representative of Great Britain against such a treatment, which is in full contrast to the obligations made to me by Great Britain 25 years ago … as an ex-serviceman of the British Army I apply to you, Sir, for your assistance in my release and in the re-establishment of my good name.[1]

Prootkovsky was released from Loveday in June 1944. After the war he settled in Sydney and Paradise Beach Pittwater specifically. He passed away on August 29 1975 and was buried in an unmarked plot at the Russian Orthodox Cemetery in Rookwood.

NOTICE of intended distribution of estate.—Any person having any claim upon the estate of VASSILY ALEXANDROVITCH PROOTKOVSKY, late of Avalon, retired watchman, who died on 29th August, 1975, must send particulars of his claim to the administrator, Gerts Valdez, care of G. S. Madden, Williams & Bicknell, 10th Level, Kindersley House, 22 O'Connell Street, Sydney, N.S.W. 2000 (D.X. 175, Sydney), within two calendar months from publication of this notice. After that time the administrator may distribute the assets of the estate, having regard only to the claims of which at the time of distribution she has notice. Letters of administration were granted in New South Wales on 23rd November, 1984. (1545)NOTICE of intended distribution of estate.—Any person having any claim upon the estate of VASSILY ALEXANDROVITCH (1986, August 15). Government Gazette of the State of New South Wales (Sydney, NSW : 1901 - 2001), p. 4029. Retrieved from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article231299562

Refs:

  • Damien Wright, Churchill's Secret War with Lenin: British and Commonwealth Military Intervention in the Russian Civil War, 1918-20, Solihull: Helion & Co., 2017.
  • Damien Wright, ‘The Slavo-British Legion, North Russia 1918-19: The story of a Russian recipient of the Military Medal and his imprisonment in Australia during World War II’, Medal News (April 2009), 31-34; (May 2009), 27- 30.
  • NAA: MP508/1, 255/742/557, Vassily Alexandrovich PROOTKOVSKY - Detention Order
  • NAA: A435, 1945/4/4384, PROOTKOVSKY Vassily Alexandrovitch - born 28 July 1889 - Stateless [formerly Russian]
  • NAA: MP1103/1, N1678, Prisoner of War/Internee: Prootkovsky, Vassily Alexandrowich; Date of birth - 28 July 1889; Nationality - Russian
  • [1] Cited in Damien Wright, Churchill’s Secret War with Lenin, p. 296.

Vol-Fol: 4866-246 in full:

In Vol-Fol 4304-207, 3 roods and 27 perches, Charles Lloyd Powell transfers Lot 2, of 29 perches, to Leslie Thomas Powell of Sydney, 'Company Director' (Vol-Fol: 4983-203) on October 28 1938. On November 25 1938 he sells this to Ann Craws Law of Homebush, Widow. She sells, on December 2 1938, to May Janet Downing, wife of James William Downing of St. Ives with the transfer taking place on December 16 1938. May Downing sells the property to William George Medbury (1915-2001) of Coogee, Supply Officer, on February 4 1942 with the transfer taking place on February 13 1942. On November 14 1956 Alfred Ivan Frank Silver and his wife Eileen Mary Silver, both of Gladesville, become joint tenants. Ian Adrian Dopper, of Garran, Project Manager, and his wife, Lana Pamela Margaret Dopper, become joint tenants on April 11, 1978.

Of the 21+ acres, 5 acres, 3 roods and 37 perches was sold on to Lily Frances Lynch wife of George, Foreman, Parramatta (Vol-Fol: 5134-11):

Lot 32, where the Powell holiday cottage was, of 38 perches: sold to George Mead Waring of Northbridge, 'Departmental Manager' in July 1941 (Vol-Fol: 5252-160) - and becomes both he and Nellie Margaret Waring as tenants in common in equal shares on May 3rd, 1985:

Albert Hugh Hart also bought another Lot from PA29659 in Lot 19 in October 1947 - (Vol-Fol: 5800-43; nb this is incorrect Vol-Fol)

Grace Stapleton Lots 13 and 14 in November 1947 Vol-Fol: 5830-31, sells two lots residue goes into Vol-Fol: 6779-103, being Lots 12, 13, 14 and 14A, but then one lot sold comes back to 'J T Stapleton' soon afterwards.

Land adjoining Powell's holding was the Crowley lots and land which was resumed in 1900 for a landing area and approach (road) to the Clareville wharf. This was gazetted as:

GOVERNMENT GAZETTE.

Land has been resumed at Marrar for improving the water supply for the South-western-Railway; at Battle Abbey, for a public school; at Clareville, Pittwater, for a wharf; … GOVERNMENT GAZETTE. (1900, January 8). Evening News (Sydney, NSW : 1869 - 1931), p. 3. Retrieved from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article117033146 

The resumption notice states:

NOTIFICATION OF RESUMPTION OF LAND UNDER
THE "LANDS FOR PUBLIC PURPOSES ACQUISITION ACT," 44 VICTORIA No. 16.
PROCLAMATION
New South Wales,
to wit,
(L.S.)
BEAUJCHAMP,
Governor.
By His Excellency The Right Honourable William, Earl Beauchamp, Knight Commander of the Most Distinguished Order of Saint Michael and Saint George, Governor and Commander-in Chief of the Colony of New South Wales and its Dependencies.

WHEREAS a certain public work, that is to say the construction of a Wharf at Clareville, Pitt Water, in the said Colony, has been duly carried out, and whereas it has been found necessary to acquire the lands described in the Schedule hereto for the purpose of the said public work, that is to say, for a way of access in connection therewith, and for the acquisition of which, said lands public funds are lawfully available: Now, therefore, I, William, Earl Beauchamp, the Governor of the said Colony aforesaid, with the advice of the Executive Council, in pursuance of the powers in this behalf given to or vested in me by the "Lands for Public Purposes Acquisition Act," do, by this notification to be published in the Government Gazette, and in one or more newspapers published or circulated in the Police District wherein the said lands are situated, declare that the Crown Land comprised within the descriptions set forth in the Schedule hereto has been appropriated, and the private property within such descriptions has been resumed, for the public purpose aforesaid, to the intent that upon the publication of this notification in the Gazette, the legal estate in the said lands described in the Schedule hereto shall forthwith be vested in the Minister for Public Works and his successors, on behalf of her Majesty, for the purposes of the said Act, for an estate of inheritance in fee simple, in possession, freed and discharged from all trusts, obligations, estates, interests, contracts, charges, rates, rights-of way, or other easements whatsoever; and to the intent further, that the legal estate therein, together with all powers incident thereto or conferred by the said Act, shall be vested in the said Minister as a Trustee; and I declare that the following is the Schedule of the lands hereinbefore referred to : —

Schedule.
All that piece or parcel of land situate in the parish of Narrabeen, county of Cumberland, and Colony of New South Wales, being part of the land comprised in certificate of title registered volume 1,294, folio 169: Commencing at the north western corner of a reserve for access; and bounded thence by the northern boundary of that reserve bearing 92° 11' 221 1/10 feet; thence by the western boundary of a road 1 chain wide leading to Newport, bearing 28° 1' 143 feet 6 inches; thence by a line bearing 269° 16' 275 9/10 feet to the high-water mark of Pitt Water; and thence by that boundary bearing southerly, to the point of commencement,— be the said several dimensions all a little more or less, containing 2 roods 33 perches or thereabouts, and said to be in the possession of James Crowley.

All that piece or parcel of land situate in the parish of Narrabeen, county of Cumberland, and Colony of New South Wales, being part of the land comprised in certificate of title, registered volume 1,294, folio 169 : Commencing on the high water mark of the eastern shore of Pitt Water, at a point bearing 6° 12' and distant 115 4/10 feet from the north-western corner of a reserve for access; and bounded thence by a line bearing 89° 16' 275 9/10, feet; thence by the north-western boundary of a road one chain wide leading to Newport, bearing 60° 32' 217 1/10 feet; (hence by a line bearing 269° 16' 445½ feet to the aforesaid high-water mark; and thence by that boundary bearing southerly, to the point of commencement,— be the said several dimensions all a little more or less, containing 3 roods 18 perches or thereabouts, and said to be in the possession of Barnett Smith and others.

In witness whereof I have hereunto set my Hand, and caused the Great Seal of the Colony to be hereto affixed, at Government House, Sydney, this twenty second day of December, in the year of our Lord one thousand eight hundred and ninety-nine, and in the sixty-third year of Her Majesty's Reign.
By His Excellency's Command,
E. W. O'SULLIVAN.
[5126] GOD SAVE THE QUEEN !

NOTIFICATION OF RESUMPTION OF LAND UNDER THE "LANDS FOR PUBLIC PURPOSES ACQUISITION ACT," 44 VICTORIA No. 16. (1900, January 5). New South Wales Government Gazette (Sydney, NSW : 1832 - 1900), p. 88. Retrieved from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article221011182

The Historical Land Record Viewer (NSW Government) for Volume 1294 Folio 169 - Primary Application Number: 10815 provides:


Baths at Taylors Point were approved May 17, 1946 – lease was until December 31 1959 at £1 per annum. Provisions were:

Special Lease 1945-437, Metropolitan. Warringah Shire Council.—The lease shall be subject to subsections 1, 3, 4, 6 to 13, and 22a of Regulation No. 106 (notified 2nd August, 1940), and to following special conditions:—(a) The lessee shall make all necessary provisions to secure the privacy of persons frequenting the dressing sheds, baths, etc. (b) The lessee shall be responsible for the proper conduct and cleanliness of the premises. (c) Access without hindrance shall be afforded for purposes of supervision to any officer authorised by the Minister, (d) No dogs shall be allowed on the premises, (e) The lessee shall provide and maintain suitable and efficient sanitary accommodation, (f) All improvements on the land shall be maintained in good order, condition and appearance during the whole term of the lease, and the premises kept free from rats and mice, (g) The lessee shall provide proper and sufficient life-saving appliances, and keep the same in good order and condition and .readily available for use in the event of accident, (h) Any attendants employed shall be expert swimmers skilled in the resuscitation of the apparently drowned, (i) The lessee shall at all times keep the baths clear of loose rocks, stones, shells, slime, seaweed and any other objectionable matter or thing. (3) The baths shall be open to the public free of charge at all reasonable hours, (k) The lessee shall take soundings of the depth of water in different. 1946 'NOTIFICATION OF GRANTING OF SPECIAL LEASES.', Government Gazette of the State of New South Wales (Sydney, NSW : 1901 - 2001), 17 May, p. 1172. , Retrieved from: http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article224763709 

Parish Narrabeen, county Cumberland, Special Lease 45-437, Metropolitan, for bathing place. Land applied for—about 57 feet by 125 feet, being the existing public baths, below high water mark at Taylor's Point, Pittwater. Applicant—The Warringah Shire Council. Objections may be lodged at the Land Board Office, Sydney. APPLICATIONS FOR LEASES FOR SPECIAL PURPOSES. (1946, January 4). Government Gazette of the State of New South Wales (Sydney, NSW : 1901 - 2001), p. 14. Retrieved from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article224760251