Pittwater Online News

Bayview Public Wharf and Baths: Some History

Bayview wharf, although still part of the landscape, is not today the same as it was when first built.by the state government. With the reclaiming of sandflats to provide parking for cars and a reserve for alongside the baths, the need for a wharf which extended into the estuary and would allow goods, produce and people to be loaded or offloaded reduced the length and need for the wharf to be accessible in all tides – low tide especially.

Bayview Public Wharf also holds a place in our history as being one of the longest continuously part of the western foreshores of Pittwater wharves, although it is beaten here by Church Point Wharf, which was built by William Boulton and finished to be opened in July 1885, and celebrates its 140th birthday in 2025. The western side wharf of Scotland Island, which was in existence around 1876 (a landing place and some form of approach was established by Andrew Thompson near the current day Tennis Court Wharf much earlier- circa 1810 – with boat building continuing here even after he had passed away), and the Elvina Bay wharf – although the north end version is the current model for that one, and was in existence in some form by at least 1880.

However, as this Issue and History is made available, Bayview Public Wharf is turning 124 years of age, and is still in this location.

Officially opened on December 1st 1900, by Warringah state MP Dugald Thomson, Bayview wharf was called for by the local residents association from the 1880’s. It was only when delegations, championed and introduced to the relevant Ministers by Dugald Thompson, that some shift in the priorities of governments was achieved. Even then it took until 1898 before it was announced provision for those people, producers and visitors to this side of the estuary would be realised. 

As with so many rural enterprises, and as Pittwater was considered 'country' then even if jetties were registered in the 'metropolitan' category, residents had to step up and speak for themselves through their local MP;

MESSRS, BURNS AND CULLEN, members for St Leonards, brought under the notice of the Minister for Works yesterday the movement at Pittwater for the erection of a publio wharf at Newport .They presented an influentially-signed petition in favour of the erection of a wharf at Sunnyside, and stated that another petition, praying that the wharf be erected at the foot of Queen's-parade, in the same quarter, had been sent to the Minister for Lands. Mr. Bruce Smith promised to make the necessary inquiries as to the necessity for the wharf, and to let the deputation know the result. The Sydney Morning Herald. (1889, May 22). The Sydney Morning Herald (NSW : 1842 - 1954), p. 8. Retrieved from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article13725373

THE WHARF AT PITTWATER. 

Messrs. Burns and Cullen, M.L.A., introduced to the Minister for Public Works yesterday a number of the residents of Pittwater, who wished to bring under his notice certain matters concerning the erection of a wharf at Sunnyside, Pittwater. Mr. Bauer Smith told the deputation that there were already two reports in the Department, and these were in opposition to the erection of the wharf. However, he was not quite satisfied as to what was the best course to adopt, and he would therefore direct an officer of the department to specially report on the project. THE WHARF AT PITTWATER. (1889, July 26). The Sydney Morning Herald (NSW : 1842 - 1954), p. 4. Retrieved from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article13726589

Almost 10 years later they tried again:

DEPUTATIONS TO THE MINISTER FOR WORKS.—  A number of deputations will wait upon the Minister for Works this morning. At 11.30 Mr.  D. Thomson, M.L.A. will introduce a number of residents of Bayview with reference to a wharf at Bayview. At noon the residents of Narrabeen and Pittwater will press upon the Minister the necessity  of tramway traffic being provided between Manly and Narrabeen. The Sydney Morning Herald. (1898, October 13). The Sydney Morning Herald (NSW : 1842 - 1954), p. 4. Retrieved from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article14152336

TO-DAY'S DEPUTATIONS
WHARF AT BAYVIEW.

A representative deputation of the residents of Newport, Pittwater, and Bayview, introduced by Mr. D. Thomson, urged the Minister for Works to-day to have a wharf constructed at the latter place. It was pointed out that the old wharf at Church Point was now of very little use, besides being inconveniently situated. Most of the settlement was at Bayview, and a quan-tity of produce was now shipped from there un-der great difficulties.

In reply, Mr. Young said he recognised that the wharf in question would be a -great conven-ience, and he promised to have a report made on the proposal. The one point against it would be the expense entailed in carrying out the wharf over a wide stretch of mud into deep water. TO-DAY'S DEPUTATIONS. (1898, October 13). Evening News (Sydney, NSW : 1869 - 1931), p. 3. Retrieved from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article114041706

WHARF ACCOMMODATION AT BAYVIEW. A deputation was introduced by Mr Dugald Thomson to the Minister for Works yesterday. It comprised representatives of Bayview, who urged the Minister to provide adequate wharfage accommodation for local requirements.  There was at present a wharf at Church Point, but that was too far removed from the centre of population and trade. If there had been deep water right up to the shore that deputation would not have troubled the Government, but owing to the existence of long mudflats the cost of erecting a suitable wharf would be so great that it would not pay private enterprise to undertake the work. Fishermen and settlers generally were seriously handicapped now because of the cost and the difficulty of shipment of their fish and produce. 

The Minister said he recognised that the construction  of a wharf would be convenient to many persons, and he thought a case had been made out for further inquiry. He would not make any promise however, because he saw from the papers before him that the undertaking would be an expensive one, and he would not be justified in sanctioning it unless it appeared on further inquiry that the results which would follow would justify the expenditure. WHARF ACCOMMODATION AT BAYVIEW. (1898, October 14).The Sydney Morning Herald (NSW : 1842 - 1954), p. 6. Retrieved from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article14154847

The Daily Telegraph's version records that even then they were stating others were telling 'tales':

A WHARF AT BAYVIEW.

The residents of Bayview want a wharf. There is one at Church Point, but according to their tale, it is unsuitable in locality and construction. The Minister for Works was asked yesterday by a deputation, headed by Mr. Dugald Thomson, M.P., to supply this long-felt want. It was pointed out that there was a considerable amount, of settlement at Bayview, and the quality, of the land would soon induce a still larger number of settlers. There was, however, no convenient means of getting the produce of the land to market, Mr. Young said he recognised that the wharf would provide a great convenience, but he had to consider the relation of the cost to the number of persons benefited. He thought they had made out a good case for Inquiry, and although he would not promise straight away to have the wharf built, he would have a complete report on the whole matter, and If he found the expenditure was justified he would be very pleased to carry out the work. A WHARF AT BAYVIEW. (1898, October 14). The Daily Telegraph (Sydney, NSW : 1883 - 1930), p. 4. Retrieved from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article239460656

By January 1899 preliminary plans were being drawn up and specifications outlined. In January 1900 a visit was made:

Mr. E. W. O'Sullivan, Minister for Works, accompanied by Mr. D. Thomson, M.L.A., is to pay a visit to Bayview and district on Saturday next. The party leave Manly about 10 o'clock, and proceed to Narrabeen along the route of the proposed tramway to the district, arriving at Newport about midday. The visitors then embark on a steam launch for a trip up the Hawkesbury. After viewing the beauties of Kur-ring-gai Chase, Lion Island, etc., a return will be made, and lunch par taken of at Gregg's Hotel at -Newport. BREVITIES. (1900, January 24). Evening News (Sydney, NSW : 1869 - 1931), p. 4. Retrieved from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article117031037

The residents and their local MP had won through and soon tenders were called for construction with the winning bid going to the lowest price tabled - :

Construction of wharf, &c , at Bayview. Pittwater, 5 tenders received, M J. Woodbury, £686 6s 5d, lowest PUBLIC TENDERS. (1900, April 25). The Sydney Morning Herald (NSW : 1842 - 1954), p. 5. Retrieved  from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article14307801

Construction of Wharf and approach at Bayview, Pitt water—M. J. Woodbury, Wyong Creek. Government Gazette Tenders and Contracts (1900, May 18). New South Wales Government Gazette (Sydney, NSW : 1832 - 1900), p. 3864. Retrieved from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article222499147

M J Woodbury was Matthew James Woodbury of Wyong, a pioneer settler of that region who resided on Mangrove Creek. He was also responsible for the Tuggerah Wharf (sometimes called Woodbury's wharf) which was built for fisherman circa 1900 too. He was partners with a man named 'Smith' in Smith & Woodbury - Timber Merchants. As with so many Pittwater histories, the Central Coast and Hawkesbury people are intertwined. Many of the steamers that carried produce away took it to be offloaded onto trains at Brooklyn. Much of the timber and tin that was needed for local structures was milled on this great river and transported down it to Pittwater.

MATTHEW JAMES WOODBURY. 

THE GRAND OLD MAN OF WYONG. (1838-1921) 

There passed away at 11 o'clock on Sunday night, 20th March, 1921, a man who will never be forgotten as long as Wyong endures, for he was the father of Wyong, and every inhabitant loved him as a child loves a parent. He truly possessed every virtue in high degree; he was gentleness personified; a man of truth, and his word was his bond. Born on the Mangrove over 83 years ago, his father being an Australian, he came of long-lived people, for his mother died at about 89 and his grandmother at 100. Remaining on the Mangrove till he was 18 years of age, he then proceeded to the Snowy River gold fields at the very time when the white diggers had made a raid upon the Chinese, gold miners, and cut their long pig tails off. Some time later he found his way to the Wollombi, and thence to the Cedars, Wyong, where and at his late residence he resided 55 years. Hence he was one of the first pioneers that settled in the Wyong district. 

For half a century the dear old 'Cedars' was his home. In the far away days only two kinds of wood were extensively used, oak and cedar, the former for shingles and the latter for fine cabinet work . The timber and the shingles were carted to Maitland, and even slides were much in use when roads were impassable for drays. Away via Yarramalong and the Wollombi to Maitland was the route. In the bush 50 years ago there were practically no timber- getters, except shingle  splitters and cedar cutters. When about 27 years of age he married Miss Eliza O'Neill, of The Cedars. She was a lady beloved by to her husband. Great was his grief when some seven years ago she passed away. He never ceased to mourn his loss, even though his children continually ministered unto his comfort in the most loving manner. His sorrowing daughters are Miss Woodbury, Mrs. W. A. Chapman, Mrs. W. Baldwin, and Miss O. Woodbury, and his sons, Councillor W. B. Woodbury, and Mr. Edwin Woodbury, to whom we extend our deepest sympathy. Our late friend was the Chairman of the Directors of the Wyong Butter Factory, and had been Chairman from the inception of the company. His very last conversations were about the re-building of the factory on the ideal old site. He possessed a wonderful memory, and up  to within a few hours of his end, his mental faculties were unimpaired. He knew he was nearing The Bar, and was much comforted to see a number of his devoted children round his bedside. The remains were brought to his beloved church, where service was conducted by Rev. Father Herlihy, and thence removed, by procession to the Jilliby cemetery, where a very solemn service was followed by a most eloquent ad-dress by the priest, which will be treasured in the memory of Protestants and Catholics alike. for years to come as a grand tribute to a good man. The immense concourse, testified to the worth and to the nobility of character of Matthew James Woodbury. Numerous wreaths and floral , tributes were offered by loving friends. — 'Gosford Times.' MATTHEW JAMES WOODBURY. (1921, April 1). Windsor and Richmond Gazette (NSW : 1888 - 1954), p. 10. Retrieved from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article85877526

A VISIT TO BAY VIEW.

THE WHARF OPENED.

Bayview is steadily rising in Importance. Thou-sands who visit the locality gush over its lovely scenery, and its residents regard it as one of the most favored spots oil earth; and If any suggestion be made to the contrary, they are ready with numerous arguments to support that opinion. The present Government, acting upon the sagacious suggestion of the member for the district, Mr. Dugald Thomson, has caused, to be constructed there a new pier, which will be appreciated not only by the frequent callers who make the journey thither by water, and whose yachts, during the season lend an additional charm to the seascape, but by the settlers in the place, who receive and send away many tons of produce in the year. The official opening of the pier took place on Saturday, and a small party left Sydney in the early morning to take part in the proceedings. 

Among the visitors were: Messrs. Dugald Thomson, Millard, and Cohen, Ms.L.A., Dr. Cullen. M.L.C., the Mayor of Manly (Alderman Fletcher), the Mayor of North Sydney (Alderman Purves),and Alderman T. J. West (Mayor of Paddington). Although somewhat threatening in the early part of the day, there was no rain, for which the party appeared thankful. The journey over the road from Manly acted like a good tonic, and all were in good spirits when they arrived at Bayview, where they received a cordial welcome from Mr. P. T. Taylor, president of the local progress association, Mr. J. J. Roche, and other residents. 

After a pleasant chat about the weather, the fruit-producing powers of the district, the poultry, and suchlike matters of importance, the visitors were conducted under a gaily-decorated arch down the approach to the wharf. The latter is strongly built, is 140ft long, and there is a good depth of water alongside. 

Mr. Thomson mounted a portion of a recently-discharged cargo, and was requested by Mr. Taylor to perform the interesting ceremony. In giving expression to that desire, Mr. Taylor intimated that the residents were very much indebted to the Minister for Works (Mr. O'Sullivan), and to Mr. Thomson, for the erection of the wharf. Successive Ministers had promised that it should be done before, but their promises had been of pie-crust frailty. However, when the Minister visited the place with the member for the district a little while ago, he was impressed with its necessity, and tenders were called a few weeks later. That, of course, spoke volumes for the energy of the present Government, and particularly for Mr. O'Sullivan. Mr. Thomson, in that spirit of modesty which becomes a member of Parliament so well, declined to take all the credit for the work. 

'There were, he said, the strongest grounds for carrying it out. Those of you who have been living here for so many years will remember the difficulties that have been experienced in landing goods. Men were obliged to wade through mud, and women and children to be carried. 

The work was certainly warranted. 

You will also remember that Mr. Roche, with commendable energy and enterprise, constructed a wharf him self, which the waves, with equal energy and enterprise, quickly destroyed, and it became necessary to have some better and more substantial means of approach. The Minister saw that necessity, and could not resist fulfilling his promise. I am glad you have the wharf, which will be of immense use to the district, and I hope that this ceremony will be a happy omen for the future.'

The ceremony over, the party boarded the steam launch Surprise, and were conveyed round Pittwater, and a delightful hour was spent viewing' the glorious scenery which meets the eye on all sides. They were landed opposite the establishment of Mr. Buist, at which they enjoyed an excellent luncheon. The toast of "The Queen" having been honored, Mr. L. Hopkins proposed the "Ministry and Parliament.". 

In responding, Dr. Cullen referred to the importance of the Bayview district. Its claims would, he said, be recognised in the future, and (although they might have to wait for it, the tram-way would come at last. With reference to the second Chamber of Parliament, the members of that body were abused and ridiculed a great deal; but they had to ask themselves if they had any business there unless they had to exercise their judgment upon the measures submitted to them — to act fairly and squarely to the whole of the people of the colony. He claimed that, with all its faults, the Legislative Council had tried to do so. He claimed that the second Chamber had rendered many services to the country during the present session. Over and over again the representatives of the other branch of the Legislature, who were elected by the people, were tempted by the least thoughtful to forget the duties, which thy owed to the sober-minded, hard-working members of the community, who were not so well represented in the other Chamber; and measures that were passed by representatives who sat night and day needed the close attention of a revising Chamber. He appealed to the people of New South Wales to re-member that while they had a second Chamber it was entitled to respect. If they did not respect it, let them sweep it out of existence at once. Although he was not in favor of a nominee Chamber, with life tenure, still that was better than having only one Chamber, but if it was not worthy of respect it should not be there. If the people wished for faithful service, and a court of appeal that would try fairly and squarely to serve the interests, not of any one class, but of the whole population, let them show the press of the country that they respected the Legislative Council and appreciated the work of its members. Mr. Millard, M.L.A, also responded. Mr. Cohen, M.L.A., proposed 'Success to the District,' and during his remarks made reference to the fact that its member would be a candidate for a seat in the Federal Parliament, expressing a hope that he would be found among its members. Mr. Purves supported the toast, and in doing so said he believed it was the Minister's intention to construct a tram lino from Manly to Bay-view. The toast was also responded to by Messrs, Taylor, J. Symonds (hon. sec), and Joseph Waterhouse. Mr. W. H. Vivian proposed 'The Member for the District,' which was cordially honored. Mr. Thomson spoke at some length in reply. Mr. C. Bennett proposed 'The Visitors,' which was responded toby. Alderman Fleischer and Alderman West. A VISIT TO BAYVIEW. (1900, December 3 - Monday). Evening News (Sydney, NSW : 1869 - 1931), p. 4. Retrieved from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article114014867

The application for a wharf or jetty by James Joseph Roche is published in the Gazette; and is prefaced by an application for a boatshed and bathing place:

Department of Lands,

Sydney, 24th August, 1900.

APPLICATIONS FOR LEASES FOR SPECIAL PURPOSES.

Applicant; James Joseph Roche. County Cumberland, parish Narrabeen, Bay View, Pittwater. Area; about 250 yards. For; Boat-shed and bathing place. APPLICATIONS FOR LEASES FOR SPECIAL PURPOSES. (1900, September 12). New South Wales Government Gazette (Sydney, NSW : 1832 - 1900), p. 7093. Retrieved from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article224602016

Department of Lands,

Sydney, 28th August, 1901,

SPECIAL LEASES GRANTED.

TT is hereby notified, for general information, that the Lieutenant-Governor, with the advice of the Executive Council, has granted to the undermentioned persons leases of the lands specified in the annexed Schedule. The leases are subject to the provisions of the Crown Lands Acts and the Regulations thereunder, to the following general conditions, and to the special conditions, provisions, covenants, and reservations set out respectively at the foot of the Schedule.

The rent for each year must be paid in advance to the State Treasurer, on or before the 31st  December of the year preceding, otherwise penalties for the late payments will be incurred, and the leases will be liable to forfeiture.

The lease shall not confer any right to purchase the land.

The land shall be used only for the purposes for which the respective leases arc granted.

Should any of the leases be forfeited, all improvements on the land shall become the property of the Crown.

W. P. CRICK.

No. of Lease: 2937. Reg,. No. of Papers: 1901-7368. No. of Application: 1900-19 Metropolitan. Name and Address of Leasee: James Joseph Roche of Bay View, Pittwater. Situation of Land; Adjacent to the Government jetty at Bayview, on the northern side of the main road leading from Church Point to Manly, parish of Narrabeen, county of Cumberland. Area: 2 ½ perches. Purpose of Lease: Jetty and Boatshed. Term of Lease: 1st July 1901 to 31 December 1905. Annual rent: £3. SPECIAL LEASES GRANTED. (1901, August 28). Government Gazette of the State of New South Wales (Sydney, NSW : 1901 - 2001), p. 6582. Retrieved from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article222065766 

Later records by those who lived there from the 1930's on recall a thinner shorter jetty leading out from the Roche store, which would be beside Williams boatshed, which was beside the Bayview wharf - or cargo wharf - as it was referred go by residents. This store would be a replacement of one that was destroyed by fire in 1923. Even into the 1950's people recall fishing from this jetty - a thin, spindly one compared to the 'cargo' wharf next door.

A 1906 advertisement offers:

FOR SALE. — A Splendid Allotment of Land, 3-(?) Acres. At Bayview, next to the Post-office and G. Wharf. Splendid Position for a Boarding house. Apply, Boatshed, Bayview, Pittwater. Advertising. (1906, November 4). Sunday Times (Sydney, NSW : 1895 - 1930), p. 3. Retrieved from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article126564889 

'Roche's Corner' - circa 1895-1900, Kerry photograph, courtesy State Library of NSW

The Roche family owned the land backing up he hill from the Bayview wharf site. On 8 September 1881 Honorah Collins, her mother, purchased from Therry’s estate the 80 acre grant at Bayview, next to Winnyjimmy Swamp, for £80, which was the market value of the land at the time. [LTO Book 229 No. 144] Honorah and her daughter Katherine lived at Bayview, Katherine taking on the duties of Post Mistress to the growing Bayview area on 21 August 1882.

The mail was then brought out from Manly via coach or horseback.

Katherine Mary Collins married James Joseph Roche in 1883:

ROCHE—COLLINS.—April 18, at the residence of the bride's mother, Rockvale, by the Rev. Dean Hanly, James Joseph, youngest son of John Roche, Esq., County Cork, Ireland, to Katherine M., youngest daughter of the late John Collins, Esq., of Pittwater. Family Notices. (1883, May 24). The Sydney Morning Herald(NSW : 1842 - 1954), p. 1. Retrieved from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article13535436

They had six children: John (born 1884 - October 15, 1936) Elizabeth Ellen ( February 5th 1886 - 8 Apr 1979) Mary Honorah (Born 1888 - 26 Jul 1979) Katherine Agnes T (born 1889 - 13 Jul 1976) Nano E (1892- 29 Sep 1979) Francis Michael G (Born 1895) 

To the duties of postmistress were added Telephonist, after a petition from residents, commencing September 1893. This also would have been added impetus for a decent wharf at Bayview in the years residents asked for and finally secured one.

In 1893 and article Manly to Broken Bay. A PICTURESQUE AND HEALTHY TRIP. BY "ST. MAGNUS." pinpoints the home of the Roche family;

In the foreground is Bay View House, vine yard, orchard, Post and Telegraph Office, the property of Mr. J. J. Roche. Our illustration, " A Cluster of Lemons," grown by Mr. Roche, on his Bay View Orchard, will compare favorably with any fruit of the kind grown in this country or any other. The lemons, which are of the Lisbon variety, and are very juicy, are simply superb, and grow close to the salt water in the greatest profusion ; and oranges, which are of the Siletta variety, are among the sweetest and best ever grown.

On Mr. Roche's property are several small caves, interesting as the unmistakable residence of generations of blackfellows, and the shells and debris collected show ages of habitation, and what is now used as manure. Manly to Broken Bay. (1893, November 11). Australian Town and Country Journal (NSW : 1870 - 1907), p. 19. Retrieved from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article71191632

Another view of this property ca. 1900-1927 from Sydney & Ashfield : Broadhurst Post Card Publishers, shows the grounds more overgrown and not tended - you can also see the wharf to the right of the photo. Item: a106167, courtesy of the state Library of NSW): 

Another view:

'View towards Barrenjoey from Bayview' circa 1899 -1900. Item: FL12969, courtesy NSW Records and Archives

In 1897 Honorah Collins died:

DEATH OF MRS. COLLINS.

Full of years spent worthily, Mrs. Honora Collins relict of the late John Collins, died on the 20th instant the residence of her son-in-law, Mr. J. J. Roche, Bay View, Pittwater. For more than half a century she had lived at Pittwater, and no family was better known or more highly respected than the Collins family of Careel Bay. 

Mr. and Mrs. Collins were natives of the County Cork, whence they emigrated 60 years ago. Soon after their arrival in the colony they settled on Father Therry's grant at Pittwater, where Mr. Collins engaged in grazing and farming. The district has always been a great health resort. Many an invalid from Sydney recruited his health at the hospitable homestead of the Collins family. The cottage was flanked by two hills, named Mount St. Joseph and Mount St. Mary by Mr. Collins. It is told of him that he would allow none of his sick guests to leave until he saw that they were completely 'on their legs,' his test for which was a given time to ascend and descend these hills before breakfast. 

The remains of the deceased lady were brought on the 21st from Bay View to St. Mary's, North Sydney, where Masses were said for the repose of her soul. The funeral took place at Chatswood Cemetery, the family burial-place, the same day. The chief mourners were Mr. J. Collins, of the Harbours and Rivers Department; Mr. P. Collins (sons); Mr. J. J. Roche, son in-law; Messrs. J. T. and E. P. Swanson, nephews. Among others present were Mrs. Black, of Barrenjoey Customs Station,  Mrs. Midden, Mrs. Roche, Mrs. Earl, Mrs. Robertson, Mrs. F. Collins, Mrs. P. Collins, Messrs. D. J. Glacken, M'Teague, J. Wall, J. Crowley, H. Coyle, J. Macintosh, and Boulton.  The Rev. Father Dowling, of St. Patrick's College, Manly, attended Mrs. Collins during her last illness, and officiated at the grave. May her soul rest in peace. DEATH OF MRS. COLLINS. (1897, October 30). Freeman's Journal (Sydney, NSW : 1850 - 1932), p. 16. Retrieved from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article115471628

In Memoriam.  COLLINS.-In memory of my dear grandma, died October 20th, 1897, at Bayview, Pittwater. Mourned by her loving grandchildren, John, Nellie, Molly, Kathleen, Nano, and Frankie Roche. May her soul rest in peace. COLLINS.-In affectionate remembrance of our dear grandmother, Honorah Collins who departed this life October 20, 1897. Requiescat in pace. Inserted by J. and E. Swanson. Family Notices. (1898, October 20). The Sydney Morning Herald (NSW : 1842 - 1954), p. 1. Retrieved from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article14143849

Soon afterwards the deceased lady was applying to have her Bayview holdings placed under the Real Property Act. There began a series of testing times for the Roche's, which seem to show that those who stand up and be counted can also easily be those  targeted by opportunists. A further report on this incident attributes the theft to young men visiting the district over the weekends and perhaps becoming the worse for drinking too much alcohol:

ROBBERY AT BAYVIEW.  THE POST OFFICE BROKEN INTO - Some time between Saturday night and Sunday morning the premises used as a post office at Bayview were broken into. Mr. J. J. Roche, the postmaster, and whose residence is at the back of the office, a small store facing the road, states that the thieves took -30s in cash, a supply of stamps, some tins of preserves, fish and meats, and a quantity of tobacco. The matter has been reported to the Manly police. Entrance was effected by taking out a pane of the shop window. ROBBERY AT BAYVIEW. (1899, February 6). Evening News(Sydney, NSW : 1869 - 1931), p. 7. Retrieved from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article113704967 

THE BAYVIEW  ROBBERY. DISCOVERY OF A PLANT.

A plant has been discovered at Bay view, in a cave close to the road, not far from the post office. There is no doubt that it is the proceeds of the recent robbery at Mr. Roach's, as the goods hidden consist of tinned fish, meats, jam, and some tobacco. Attempts had been made to open some of the tins, but the patent openers evidently bothered the burglars, for the half-opened tins were thrown away. A dog ferretted out the bad smelling tins, and this lead to the discovery of the swag. THE BAYVIEW ROBBERY. (1899, February 23). Evening News(Sydney, NSW : 1869 - 1931), p. 8. Retrieved from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article113699261 

Katherine was about to undergo court action to defend claims made by a man named Audley Adams. Research shows this was not the only claim he made against others - successfully obtaining mining rights further inland a few years after this time on someone else's property under access laws current farmers objecting to 'fracking' access on their lands may understand. Another claim he made, and land he used at nominal rent for mining purposes, was the subject of yet another trip to court and him being evicted due to the damage he caused to the land and apparent shady practices employed in gaining access.

Fortunately Katherine, raised on stories of evictions and living among the times when the Farrells caused so many problems for other residents, was aware of what may be needed to protect herself, her children and their inheritance:

IN THE SUPREME COURT OF NEW SOUTH WALES. - Probate Jurisdiction. - In the Estate of JOHN COLLINS, late of Pittwater, in the colony of New South Wales, Settler, deceased, intestate. - Application will be made after fourteen days from the publication hereof that Administration of the Estate of the above named deceased, left unadministered  by Honorah Collins, late of  Bayview, Widow, deceased, may be granted to KATHERINE MARY ROCHE, of Bayview aforesaid, the Daughter  of the said John Collins, deceased. LOUIS F. DIXON, Proctor for the Applicant, 92 Pitt-street, Sydney. Advertising. (1898, April 18). The Sydney Morning Herald (NSW : 1842 - 1954), p. 1. Retrieved from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article14165223   

PITTWATER -Charming Cottage HOME, 7 rooms, furnished, 40 acres, 27 chains water frontage. 3 acres around cottage, highly improved, planted with citrus, stone, and tropical fruit trees. Title Torrens. Apply J.J. ROCHE, Bayview P.O.; or, E. TOWNS, Corso, Manly. Advertising. (1898, November 5). The Sydney Morning Herald(NSW : 1842 - 1954), p. 14. Retrieved from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article14183567 

Audley Adams tries selling property out from under Katherine. Imagine finding this in the paper!

Right from : Advertising. (1899, February 28). The Sydney Morning Herald(NSW : 1842 - 1954), p. 3. Retrieved from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article14201989 

Roche v Swanson

Mr Lingen, instructed by Mr L T Dixon, for the plaintiff, Mr W A Walker -nth Mi Harris, instructed by Mr A Bums, for tho defendant J Swanson and Mi Loxton with Mr Peden, instructed by Mr  A Reddell, for the defendant Audley Adams. Katherine Mary Roche, a daughter of the late John Collins, of Pittwater, and the late Honora Collins, invoked the Court against John Theodore Swanson, Edmund Clements Swanson, and Audley Adams. The two former are sons of plaintiff’s late sister Ellen, and Adams is the holder of land conveyed to him, plaintiff alleges, without valuable consideration, by her brothers Jeremiah Joseph Collins and Matthew Aneas Collins. Portion of this land, plaintiff says, was previously devised to her by her late mother, who was in possession of it by consent of the family when John Collins died intestate. Plaintiff applied, therefore, that the conveyance to Adams might be declared void as against her, that it might be declared that the plaintiff was entitled under the will of Honora Collins, and by reason of being interested in the intestate estate of John Collins, to five-sixths of the 80 acres comprised in the parcel, and the defendants John Theodore Swanson and Edmund Clements Swanson to one twelfth each, that a partitmu of tho said b0ictLS ho uuectod, und lu buch partition the five-sixths allotted to the plaintiff include JO area 10 perches settled upon her , that it be declared that Edmund Clements Swanson must elect whether he would take under or against the will of Honora Collins, and in the former case should compensate the plaintiff by assigning to her his one-twelfth interest in the 80 acres, that an inquiry be directed as to what is due to the plaintiff as administratrix, do bonis non, of the intestate John Collins and as executrix of Honora Collins for the maintenance of the defendants John Theodore Swanson and Edmund Clements Swanson, that it be declared that the plaintiff is entitled, as executrix of Honora Collins, to expenses incurred in another application, that any lands be settled on J T or E C Swanson the plaintiff be declared entitled to a lion thereof for the whole or portion of such expense, and that the intestate estate of John Collins be administered by the Court. 

The defendant John T Swanson said he had no knowledge of any of the alleged facts stated by the plaintiff. He submitted that the plaintiff should have no higher right than he in any sale or partition of the property, also that any claim for expenses of maintenance against him should be disallowed, because In a maintenance by John and Honora Collins was a free gift, and he gave his services as a set-off. The defendant Audley Adams said the land in question was conveyed to him on payment of £250, that Honora Collins and the plaintiff received notice of the conveyance from him shortly after its execution. They did not object. The alleged devise of portion of the property from Honora Collins to plaintiff subsequently was therefore void. Honora Collins was allowed to remain in possession until she died. The case stands part heard . EQUITY COURT. (1899, March 10). The Sydney Morning Herald (NSW : 1842 - 1954), p. 3. Retrieved from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article14203804

Roche v. Swanson and Adams.

Mr. Lingen, instructed by Mr. L. F Dixon, for plaintiff, Katherine Mary Roche; Mr. W, A. Walker and Mr Harns, instructed by Mr. A. Burns, for the defendants, John Theodore and E. C. Swanson, Mr. Loxton and Mr. Peden, instructed by Mr. T. A.Reddal, for the defendant, Audley Adams.

The suit was as regards the .... of land, ice at Pittwater, Careel, and Brighton, in the estate of the late John Collins, who died intestate, ...

His Honor gave judgment for plaintiff is against the defendant Audley Adams, the decree being that a conveyance of the land in dispute to him was void as against the plaintiff, that the plaintiff was entitled to five-sixths of the total 81 acres, and the defendants John Theodore Swanson and Edmund Clements Swanson, to one-twelfth each; Adams to pay costs up to 1 p m. of the date of the order. Referred to the Master in Equity to approve of ... of partition between the plaintiff and the defendants J. T. and E C. Swanson; the Master to allot the defendants one twelfth each in such a way as to provide as far as possible that the plaintiff shall ..her five-sixths have all the lands improved by her or on her behalf. The Master also to provide that each defendant shall have as much water frontage as possible. 

Plaintiff abandons any claim for past maintenance of J. T. and E. C. Swanson, as they abandon any claim to £400 left to them under their late father's will, and their share of the personal estate of the deceased, John Collins. The defendant E C Swanson to have a fortnight to consider whether he will share under or against the will of Honora Collins. Portlier issues reserved for future consideration. Conti not disposed of also reserved. (Before Mr. Justice Walker.)  EQUITY COURT. (1899, March 22). The Sydney Morning Herald (NSW : 1842 - 1954), p. 4. Retrieved from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article14205670

John Theodore and Edmund Clements Swanson were the children of  Ellen and Charles Swanson, Ellen being the first born daughter of John and Honorah. Their parents died when these boys were still quite young and would have formed part of the Roche household at Bayview prior to their schooling.

One became a surveyor and the other a very popular teacher. John Theodore, the surveyor, whose name appears in an early sale lithograph for the Roche Estate showing his allotment, was one of those who spoke out about oyster leases monopolising the estuary waterfront and went on to serve his country in WWI. In 1916 young Frank (Francis M) Roche applied to sign up - Frank was barely 21, his occupation listed as 'surgical instrument maker'. John Theodore also sponsored a trophy, probably for John Roche, during some of the early RPAYC days among other duties he undertook.

The NSW Government's Historical Land Records Viewer records that Honorah Collins' Bayview land holding was 31 acres at the time of her death. Her daughter Katherine M Roche had the 49 acres alongside (Vol-Fol: 1338-126). As the holding had originally been 81 acres some must have been resumed for road building and wharf 'approach' purposes.

Part of those early land sales, to feed, house and educate all those children, shows Maybanke Anderson bought her land from that 31 acres. In 1901 Maybanke Anderson purchased two acres of bushland lying to the south of present day Maybanke Cove. Here the Andersons built a sandstone home they named 'Maybanke' and a small farm with the help of local pioneers John and Elizabeth Oliver. The house still stands halfway up the hillside, although the premises are larger now and the grounds reduced to less than half an acre.

''Maybanke'' circa 1915 - 'On the Road, Bay View - Broadhurst postcard - courtesy Jan Roberts and Marjorie Wolstenholme (Harry Wolstenholme's daughter)

Another account of he opening and some more photos of the Bayview public wharf, dated 1900, from NSW Records and Archives:

BAY VIEW PIER. THE OPENING CEREMONY. 

The opening of the Bay View Pier took place on Saturday afternoon at Pittwater, in the presence of a large and representative gathering. The ceremony was performed by Mr. Dugald Thomson, M.L A.(member for the district), who was accompanied by Captain Millard and Mr. J.J.  Cohen, M. L.A , Dr. Cullen. M.L.C , Messrs W. H. Fletcher (Mayor of Manly), J. M. Purves (Mayor of North Sydney), P T. Taylor, Hopkins, Waterhouse, J. Symonds, Vivian, Devlin, Bennett, Watt and others. The party left Sydney shortly after 9 o'clock in the morning for Manly, whence the journey was made to Bay View by special coaches. The drive was much enjoyed, and at its termination the party boarded a steam launch which was in attendance at the pier, and made a trip round Pittwater as far as Barranjoey and back to the wharf. 

The new wharf is a substantial structure, and has been erected by the Government for the purpose of landing and shipping passengers and produce. The water journey over, the party adjourned to Buist's Hotel, where luncheon was served. The chair was occupied by Mr. P. T. Taylor. A brief toast list was honoured, which included "The Queen," proposed by the chairman, and enthusiastically honoured, “Parliament" proposed by Mr. Hopkins, and responded to by Dr. Cullen and Captain Millard; " The District," proposed by Mr. J. J. Cohen, supported by Mr. J. M. Purves, and replied to by Messrs. J. Symonds and Waterhouse ; " The Member for the District," by Mr. Vivian, and responded to by Mr. Dugald Thomson; "The Visitors," and " The Press." BAY VIEW PIER. (1900, December 3). The Sydney Morning Herald (NSW : 1842 - 1954), p. 8. Retrieved from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article14374798

Bayview Wharf, circa 1900. Photos courtesy NSW Records and Archives

James Joseph Roche, husband of Katherine, died in 1904:

ROCHE. - Of your charity pray for the repose of the soul of JAMES JOSEPH ROCHE, who died at his residence, Bayview, Pittwater, November 26th, 1904.Jesus, have mercy on his soul. In  memoriam. Family Notices. (1904, December 1). The Catholic Press(Sydney, NSW : 1895 - 1942), p. 11. Retrieved from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article104918168

MR J. J. Roche, j.p. - The funeral of the late J . J. Roche of Bay View, Pittwater took place on Monday last to Chatswood Cemetery. The remains were conveyed the night before from his late residence to St. Mary's, Ridge-street, North Sydney, where Mass was celebrated for the repose of his soul. The funeral started from the church at 8.30 a.m. and was attended by Messrs: John Roche (son), P. J. Collins. D. J. Glacken, Mr and Mrs. Reid, J Crowley, Misses Zahel, Connolly, and Mrs. Madden and many friends from Pittwater including Messers. J.  and M. K. Taylor, G. and J. Oliver, P. MCarthy. J. M'Intosh, C. and J. Devlin, J. M’Lean, G. Johnson. Mr. Roche, who was a native of Cork, had lived at Pittwater for many years, where he had established a good name for himself as Government official in charge or the post office, as fancy fowl breeder and orchardist. He leaves  a widow (daughter of the late Mr. John Collins, known for many years as the patriarch of Pittwater) and six children. The Rev. Fathers Kirby (of Pymble) and Cregan(of Manly) read the funeral prayers over the grave:— R.I:P:  OBITUARY. (1904, December 3). Freeman’s Journal (Sydney, NSW : 1850 – 1932), p. 20. Retrieved fromhttp://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article111307023

ROCHE.—November 20 at his residence, Bayview Pittwater James Joseph Roche, in his 50th year Deeply regretted R.I.P. Family Notices. (1904, December 5). The Sydney Morning Herald (NSW : 1842 - 1954), p. 6. Retrieved from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article14629235

Bayview Wharf, three women on slipway trolley. Photo by Cecil S Hartnett, Government Printing Office 1 - 04882, courtesy State Library of NSW and also held by the University of Sydney and the Noel Butlin Archives Centre in the Australian National University. This is possibly two of the Roche girls and Katherine Mary Roche (at right). Date is circa 1920-1923.

Control of the wharf passed to Warringah Shire Council once this was formed in 1906. Costs to be met included upkeep, additions and extensions to the wharf; some of these costs would have been met by wharfage fees on goods unloaded or stored for transport on the wharf or its reserves. 

Doing anything at Bayview wharf was, at first, questioned by the council as nothing has as yet been made official. the Gazettal of the council being in charge of public wharves on Pittwater would not be published until 1912. 

The 24th of January 1908 Meeting records:

Wharves and jetties; Bayview - the Engineer said No! it was agreed that a letter be forwarded to the Department asking if any objection would be made to the building of additions by the Council

A second set of steps was duly tendered for: 5th June 1908 (handwritten 46th Meeting, Minutes) Tenders for steps at Bayview Wharf 

Bayview Wharf; that Tenders be invited for a new set of steps on the western side of Bayview wharf; carried

In the Minutes for the Meeting held on 8th May 1908:

Roche's Wharf Bayview; the clerk was asked to order 9-12' pipes to be delivered at Roche's wharf Bayview

In the shires. 
WARRINGAH

At the last meeting of  the Warringah Shire Council the Health Department wrote drawing the council's attention to the necessity for proclaiming Narrabeen and Brookvale scavenging areas. Consideration was deferred to the next meeting. The tender of D. M'clean for repairing the Bayview Wharf for £13/9/ was accepted. The tender of C. Boulton was accepted for 150 cubic yards of metal for the Pittwater-road, from Collins to Sheep Station-hill, at 6/9 per yard. On the motion of Cr. M'lntosh, it was agreed "that the  seceretary of the Manly Gas Company be approached with a view of inducing the company to carry the gas main along the main trunk road of the shire. IN THE SHIRES. (1909, March 5). The Daily Telegraph (Sydney, NSW : 1883 - 1930), p. 7. Retrieved from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article238206542

SS Phoenix at Bayview Wharf (plied the Pittwater trade from 1920's to mid-1930's)  - SS Erringhi also had this wharf as part of her Pittwater Wharves and Jetties Route

ERRINGHI W lighter ex ss, 96g, 55n, ON113153, 101.0x 21.0x 7.5, B.1907 Clarence Town, NSW stm eng 32nhp. last owner Mackenzie & Petersen Ltd, reg. Sydney. Scuttled Jan 13, 1951 off Sydney Heads. SS Erringhi image courtesy Australian National Maritime Museum and by Samuel J Hood, 1912-1930. She is at Brooklyn, Hawkesbury. Vessel behind her is the Phoenix.

1920's at Bayview wharf

1920's at Bayview wharf - the old jalopy is on the then Bay View road alongside the estuary

HAWKESBURY S"S. CO., LTD. Tel., City 1833.
SS. ERRINGHI, for BAYVIEW, NEWPORT, CHURCH POINT, PALM BEACH, MACKEREL BEACH, HAWKESBURY RIVER, PATONGA, MANGROVE, M'DONALD and COLO RIVERS. EVERY TUESDAY and FRIDAY, at 5 p.m. Cargo received daily at Albion Wharf, foot Market-street. Advertising. (1921, March 23). The Sydney Morning Herald (NSW : 1842 - 1954), p. 1. Retrieved from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article15948906

In the Autumn of 1923 the double story building alongside the wharf and baths area, that had been the store, refreshment rooms and post office burnt down:

MIDNIGHT BLAZE AT BAYVIEW Thrilling Escapes

Thomas Edward Newey and his wife, occupiers of the Post Office dwelling and refreshment store at Bayview, near Pittwater, had thrilling experience last night, when the building was burnt to the ground. They escaped in their nightclothes by descending a downpipe and dropping on to a water tank. They were awakened shortly after 11 p.m. by the crackling of flames below. Mr. Newey found that It would be Impossible to descend the stairs, which were a mass of flames-Of weatherboard construction, the building was wonderful fuel for the flames. The only other way of leaving was through a window at the side of which a downpipe led from the guttering round the roof to a tank below. Mr. Newey and his wife climbed through the window, and after a difficult descent, managed to land safely on the tank, from which It was a comparatively easy Jump to the ground. The building was consumed In an incredibly short time. There Is no fire brigade in the District, and it was impossible to do anything to save the place. Mrs. Roach, of Mosman, was the owner. Newey’s place was in the nature of a landmark, and commanded a wonderful view of Pittwater on one side and as far as Palm Beach on the other. MIDNIGHT BLAZE. (1923, April 10). Evening News (Sydney, NSW : 1869 - 1931), p. 10. Retrieved from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article118842452 

Tom and Annie Newey (on the balcony) of the Bayview Tea Rooms - 1920

In The Bayview Tea Gardens 1920 to 1923 When Run By Thomas Edward And Annie Newey (Nee Costello) are more images of the Roche property (Katherine had moved her children to a new house at Mosman during their schooling years), are made available by relatives of the Neweys'.

The Bayview store after being rebuilt

Our wharves were also public meeting places for community or landmarks referred to by those who use the estuary for races in all manner of vessels.

Bayview public wharf was the embarkation point for many a Pittwater Regatta. From Warringah Shire Council Minutes:

3/12/1923: Pittwater Progress Association requesting Contribution of £12/10'towards cost of printing programmes and use of dressing sheds attached to Bayview Wharf on Regatta Day. 

The Williams family were also an early close by family who had a boatshed adjacent to the wharf - which features even from the earliest 1900 images of the wharf. This 1924 photo in the Sydney Mail is also held by family members. It provides a record of what the road alongside the wharf and out to Church Point was like on the other side of the wharf:

Above from: Sydney Mail, Wednesday, June 18th, 1924 - Sophie Iris Williams (mother of Cedric Vincent Williams and Elizabeth (Hird) has written on this 'Grandpa Williams + Boatshed' - this is the original boatshed at Bayview wharf and grandpa is the father of John L and Cedric Moreton and Kathleen B Williams. Photo courtesy Elizabeth Hird (nee Williams).

Pittwater Aquatic Club Welcome, circa 1928. Image a409025 from Hood Collection part II : [Sports, Rowing (including Head of the River), boating and yachting] either an event for this local club or as point of embarkation for Pittwater Regatta; tracks gentlemen stand in indicate is the Bayview Wharf. Image Courtesy State Library of NSW. 

The Governor-General (Lord Stonehaven) was received at the Bayview Wharf on Saturday morning by Mr. Roche, who lntroduced him to the president of the Warringah Shire Council, to Mr. Archdale Parkhill, M.P., Mr C. A. Le Maistre Walker, C.B.E. (president of the regatta committee), Mr. R. W. Weaver. M.L.A.. Mr. John Williams, Alderman S. H. Burns (hon. secretary of Balmain Regatta), Mr. H. G. Alderson (chairman of the New South Wales Rowing Association). Mr. W. N. Cuthbertson (general manager of the Newcastle and Hunter River Steamship Company), and Mrs. E. G. Greig. The Navy League Sea Cadets provided a guard nf honour beneath arches of flags and greenery. prepared by residents of the district. His Excellency then embarked on the motor cruiser Miramar, belonging to Mr. Stuart F. Doyle, commodore of the Royal Motor Yacht Club. At 3.30. p.m. Lord Stonehaven was received aboard the flagship Newcastle. PITTWATER. (1928, January 2). The Sydney Morning Herald (NSW : 1842 - 1954), p. 4. Retrieved from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article16431002

IN HIS ELEMENT. — His Excellency the Governor-General (Lord Stonehaven) -posed for 'Truth' at Pittwater Regatta yesterday. Commodore C. A. Le Maitre Walker, C.B.E., is on the extreme right of the. picture. Secretary John Roche comes next. On his right is the G.G., who is thoroughly at home on the water. Mr; Stuart Doyle, the motor boat enthusiast, is on the left of the Governor-General.  ALBERT, JR., SAILS TO VICTORY. (1928, January 1). Truth(Sydney, NSW : 1894 - 1954), p. 6. Retrieved from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article168698139 

Pittwater Regatta view from above the wharf, circa mid-1920's. Photo: courtesy Australian National Maritime Museum - a William Hall photo.

PITTWATER REGATTA. 

A Splendid Programme. Compared with Inst year there has been a considerable increase in the number of events and the entries received for the 29th annual Pittwater regatta to be held tomorrow The centre of the varied activities will be the flagship the motor launch Gloria and various sailing, motorboat,  rowing and aeroplane courses will radiate from and converge upon her. 

She will be moored off Bayview so as to command a view of the whole of Pittwater from Newport and Church Point to Lion Island. Including post entries about 390 craft and rowers are expected to participate, the prize money and trophies amounting to more than £170. PITTWATER REGATTA. (1935, December 27). The Sydney Morning Herald (NSW : 1842 - 1954), p. 12. Retrieved from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article17221891

SCULLING. Pittwater Aquatic Club. 

J. ERICKSON~HEAVY-BOAT CHAMPION. The Pittwater Aquatic Club held the first series of races in connection with its annual two day regatta on Broken Bay yesterday The races were rowed over courses of various distances finishing opposite  Bayview wharf.  Scullers from all parts of the State competed ! The main event yesterday the heavy boat championship of New South Wales was won by Erickson, the holder of the title after a splendid race with W Hibbs whom he defeated by half a length. The racing will be continued today commencing at 9. 15 a m when the finals of events started yesterday will be decided as well as many other Interesting races Including two handicaps in outriggers. SCULLING. (1934, February 24). The Sydney Morning Herald(NSW : 1842 - 1954), p. 20. Retrieved from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article17074234

From Williams Family albums:

From Cedric and Iris (Sophie's) Williams collection - Courtesy of daughter Elizabeth Hird.

 

THE RELIABLE FERRY. The Fast and Commodious Motor Vessel Gloria leaves Hawkesbury Railway every Tuesday, Thursday, Saturdays, Sundays, and all holidays at 11 a.m. for Patonga, Palm Beach, and Newport. Tickets obtained on board. Additional trips March 24. For Patonga Beach 6.30 p.m.or Patonga Beach and Palm Beach 0.30 p.m._A. J. SMITH. Proprietor. Advertising. (1921, March 23). The Sydney Morning Herald (NSW : 1842 - 1954), p. 1. Retrieved from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article15948906

Bayview wharf was lit by hand until electric light came into the district. Initially this duty was performed by the Williams who had premises, a boatshed etc., next to the wharf. From Warringah Council Minutes:

 

Bayview Wharf Lighting: lighter of lamps on Bayview Wharf: C M Williams resigning from his position as lighter of lamps on Bayview Wharf 25/2/1920 (Cr.s Hewitt and Quirk) That C.M. Williams resignation be accepted, and that Charles Charlesworth be given the work at a wage to be arrived at by the Council's Inspector. Charles Charlesworth, offering himself for same position. 

 

Williams of Bayview be requested to tend to the lighting of Bayview Wharf at the same remuneration as granted to the previous lighter. 8/10/1929

The wharf need updating or extending. All of its parts; piles, rails and tram track needed constant renewing, an indication of how much it was used. Warringah Council Minutes chart these.

Warringah shire council minutes from meetings record:

Pittwater Progress Association , 25/5/1920 on need for enlarging Bayview Wharf. Decided to inform them that the matter is under consideration.

In the Meeting held 25/7/1921: Resolved, -. (Crs. Hewitt & Hitchcock) That the work of extending Bayview Wharf shed for a further 20’ at an

In the Meeting held 3/12/1923: Pittwater Progress Association requesting Contribution of £12/10' towards cost of printing programmes and use of dressing sheds attached to Bayview Wharf on Regatta

38. John Williams. 28/3/24 complaining, on account of two rails being removed from Bayview Wharf that carts loading and discharging cargo have badly cut up the entrance to his premises:: Resolved, - That the Engineer attend, to the matter if in accordance with his request.

In the Meeting held 15/9/1924:

Mona Vale Progress Association: (e) That they be given a similar reply regarding the Bayview Baths as was given to another request some time ago; (f) That they be informed of the Engineer's Statement that he has given instructions for the steps on Bayview Wharf to be repaired, and further that the engineer report on the state of the piles of the wharf. 

 

In the Meeting held on 7/9/1925:

 

(Crs. Hewitt, Campbell) That the Engineer estimate the cost of improving the tramline &c. at Bayview Wharf, in accordance with the Inspector's report. S do. 4a. Resolved,(Crs. Hewitt, Hitchcock) That the goods shed (Vote) on the same wharf be extended for ten feet, at an estimated cost of £17. 

''During the 1930's the original small baths were moved from the other side of the groyne to the present site, and greatly enlarged, reaching from the present end near the wharf, right up to the road. 

J Williams was now J Williams and Sons, and the families of his boat-builder sons Jack and Cedric, both living nearby, remember the baths as very much a place where neighbourhood children gathered on weekends and holidays. Indeed, their grandmother bathed there every day, rain or shine, for many years. 

Many other long-term local families have similar happy memories.'' - Dr. Jenny Rosen AM

Warringah Shire Council's Minutes of Meetings records:

By Cr. Austin, seconded by Cr. Hitchcock - That £14 be voted for the lighting of the Bayview baths in accordance with the Electrical Engineer's estimate. Para. 9 regarding Bayview baths was further considered. Cr. Austin reported that A.B. Jones of Fermoy Avenue was prepared, for the amount of the rates owing by him, approximately £8; to erect about 30 or 40 feet of wire up to the shore, carry out repairs, keep the public conveniences clean until April next, and also 'erect the iron' steps donated by Colonel King. It was resolved that his offer be accepted, that he be appointed an honorary ranger for Bayview baths, and that Colonel King be thanked for his gift (Crs. Austin, Hitchcock)  5/12/21932

16/1/1933: Cr. Austin reported that there not being enough Wire for the work at Bayview baths; he purchased on behalf of the Council about 42 yards of wire from a resident at Bayview, at the price Paid to Lysaght's Ltd. exclusive of freight, and it was resolved that his action be confirmed.

By Cr. Austin - That a notice be put up at Bayview Wharf warning against riding of motor cycles on the wharf, and a notice at the baths prohibiting the swimming of dogs. By Cr. Austin - That Mr. Jones, Caretaker of Bayview baths, be appointed an Inspector, and be, given a copy of the Ordinance to assist him. 27/2/1933

 

By Cr. Austin, seconded by Cr. Fox - That Mr. A.B. Jones be re-appointed on the same terms as during last season, to Bayview attend to lights at Bayview Wharf and baths, and to act as Baths caretaker of the baths and lavatories, his wages to be Applied towards the reduction of his rates indebtedness. 25/9/1933.

 

A. B. Jones, inquiring whether' Council wishes him to continue his caretaking of Bayview baths. Resolved, He be informed his services are no longer required at present, and that he renew his application in September next. 7/5/1934

During a time when many had little or no income Mr. Jones would have welcomed the fee that being the Caretaker brought in

 

A.B.Jones, 18/9/34, (a) applying for the caretaking, etc. of Bayview baths  under the same conditions as for last season; (b) requesting payment of £1.15.0 standing to his credit in • respect of this work. Resolved, - That the £1.15.0 standing to his credit be paid him, and that he be re-engaged at wage of 10/- per week, to continue the caretaking, etc. from 1st November, (Cr.s Austin) 

The Council had little or no money for Pittwater maintenance works during these years, despite the rates incomes and selling people's properties if they did not pay their rates. In 1935 they were letting Clareville Wharf go as Taylor's Point public wharf was now open. There was also a problem with the tram track on Bayview wharf:

OVERSEER BROOKS' REPORT was submitted and dealt with as follows:- 2. Demolition of Clareville wharf: Resolved, - That tenders be called for the purchase and removal of the discarded timber in the wharf, and the best offer be accepted. (Crs. Hughes, Ross) 8. Re condition of Bayview wharf track: Referred to the Bayview Works Committee for report. 22/1/1935

 

Cr. Hewitt - That the arrangement with A.B.Jones, Caretaker Bayview baths, be terminated as from 30th April. 30/4/1935

 

A. B. Jones, 26/8/35, applying for re-appointment as Bayview Caretaker of the Bayview baths for the ensuing swimming Baths season. Resolved, - That this matter be referred to A. Riding Councillors. (Crs. Hewitt, Sheppard).

By Cr. Latham - Some, months ago the floodlight was taken away from Bayview baths,-and has not been returned: -Will you Bayview instruct the Electrical Engineer to replace it? By Cr. Latham -,The red light on Bayview wharf has not been replaced as previously instructed. Will attention be given to this matter ? Applications for Position of Caretaker of Wharves and Baths on Pittwater: Twenty-seven applications were received. Resolved,— That the matter be referred to the Rates Sub- Committee, and that the Engineer submit a report to that Committee regarding the applications. 21/3/1939

 

The hall used by 1st Bayview Group, and a little further south of the Bayview wharf, baths and Reserve, was first built through the work of Cedric Moreton Williams as a clubhouse for the then Pittwater Aquatic Club. The Williams family have done a lot for Pittwater throughout successive generations, including asking Sir Granville de Laune Ryrie (1865-1937), grazier, politician and soldier, to officially dedicate the Mona Vale Village Park War Memorial. 

The official opening took place on Monday 4th of October 1937 and was conducted by Pittwater Aquatic Club Patron Sir Clifton Love, manufacturer and businessman, who also spent Christmas Holidays in Pittwater aboard his luxury cruiser, Spindrift.

Pittwater Aquatic Club opening - C M Williams' son Cedric Vincent Williams' photo - with thanks to Elizabeth Hird (nee Williams)as well.

from the water when it was the Aquatic Club premises, for rowing. Photo by and courtesy: Don Taylor, circa 1930s

The Williams were also building boats alongside the wharf:

THE GALATEA' W. A. Dettman will shortly launch his new cruiser Galatea, which is in the hands of J. Williams and Sons, of Bayview, Pittwater. She is 63ft overall, with a clipper, bow and counter stern. . The vessel will have splendid accommodation, with a bridge deck, a promenade deck, 20ft long, and a sun deck. There will be sleeping accommodation for ten. The craft is to be added to the register of the Y.M.Y.C. Mr. Dettman .has purchased a Spanish bungalow at Salt Pan, and is laying down moorings, not only for his own craft, but also for prospective visitors. Motor Sport and Motoring. (1934, June 7). Referee (Sydney, NSW : 1886 - 1939), p. 24. Retrieved fromhttp://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article136117004

GALATEA LAUNCHED :W. A. Dettman's redesigned cruiser, Galatea, was launched from the yards of J. Williams and Sons, at Bayview, Pittwater. This craft would hardly be recognised by those who saw her in Victorian waters, where she was known a few months ago as Roena. She has been lengthened - to 63ft overall. Her straight bow has been removed, and she now has a clipper- one, with a counter stern. The Galatea presents a striking appearance, having a bridge and. promenade deck, and sun deck. Sleeping accommodation has been provided for eight. The trials are to take place at the week-end, and the craft is expected to be in full commission by August 1. DIRT TRACK ENGINES AFLOAT. (1934, July 12). Referee(Sydney, NSW : 1886 - 1939), p. 24. Retrieved from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article136121332

BOATBUILDERS BUSY N..S.W. boat builders will be kept exceptionally busy during the next nine months. New cruisers are under construction by W. L. Holmes and Co. at McMahon's Point; L. Halvorsen, at Neutral Bay; Walker and Kelshaw, Rushcutter Bay: Jack Robinson, Balmain; C.Larsen, Gladesville ; A. G. Williams, Drummoyne ; John Williams and Sons, Bayview; G. and H. Solomon, Newport; Peter Kemp, Kogarah Bay; and Shevili Bros., at Sans Souci. Within the next three weeks cruisers for J. S. Bruce, Max Mantel, and II,P. Christmas will be ready for launching. AUSTRALIAN AND N.S.W. MOTOR BOATING CHAMPIONSHIPS. (1936, January 9). Referee (Sydney, NSW : 1886 - 1939), p. 11. Retrieved from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article135644471 

That welcome Home included Sir Charles Kingsford-Smith:

Letter and clippings courtesy courtesy Elizabeth Hird (Nee Williams)

The Pittwater Aquatic Club also held its own end of season functions in the clubhouse:

During WWII the club lapsed (1939) and those who were members stayed on the water fulfilling roles in keeping Pittwater safe. Cedric Williams, along with older brother Jack, worked on Pittwater and became an Army Lieutenant. 

Although most of the boats on Pittwater were taken up the Hawkesbury and stored due to fears these may be used by invaders, C M Williams son, Cedric Vincent Williams, recalls a few fishing trips outside the estuary during that time to get food but that these were not frequent as to be able to get through the submarine boom installed from Barrenjoey to West Head was not an easy process. Nor did they want to chance their luck on what they may encounter outside the estuary, especially after the Japanese midget submarine  attacks on Sydney of May 31st and June 1st 1942, and those of June 8th and the merchant ships, fishing vessels and others that were also attacked off our shores during June, July and August 1942.

 

The state of the wharf, so often in need of repairs, caused a case of litigation to be brought against Warringah Council by one of its users: 

Mrs. L. McFee, 10/1/39, complaining of the condition of Bayview wharf and Bayview baths. Resolved, - That the Engineer prepare an estimate of the cost of moving the lavatories and dressing sheds, and re-erecting them near to the baths, and for replacing the old-girders on the wharf. (Crs. Latham, Hitchcock)

 

Mrs. L. V. McVee, 6/2/39, requesting compensation in respect of an accident sustained by her on Bayview wharf . Resolved, - That this matter be dealt with in Committee later.

D. Ross, Solicitor, giving Notice of Intention of Mrs. L.  V. McFee to take action for recovery of £100 in respect of Council injuries sustained by her at Bayview wharf on 9th January last. To be dealt with in Committee. 30/5/1939

 

Summons to appear at District Court on 1st August in re mop" v.Lilian V. McFee V. Council and claim for £100 compensation, Council Plus costs, in respect of accident to Plaintiff at Bayview wharf  27/6/1939 

Meanwhile, around a few corners, and heading west, the wharves of Pittwater required more maintenance:

Petition from 14 ratepayers and occupiers of Flood's Peninsula Estate, Pittwater, for attention to the dangerous state of the wharf and its approaches at Elvina Bay. Referred to Engineer for report and estimate, also for an estimate for repairs to Bayview Wharf 22/8/1939

 

Council Engineer; Reporting that plans and specifications for the reconstruction of Bayview wharf are being prepared with a view to calling Wharf for tenders: "Received"  5/9/1939

World War II effectively closed public wharves to residents. Repairs could not be undertaken as all materials were slated for the war effort. It should also be noted that the Mona Vale to Bungan Beach to Bayview 'tank traps' and installations of barbed wire and tetrahedrons along the waterfront to prevent invasion also created hazards - this photo also shows their position at Bayview:

The line of tetrahedrons and piles at Bayview to stymie landing of tanks.

WWII - 1944 Map of where tetrahedrons and timber piles and excavated tank trap were at Bayview - at other end of Bungan-Mona Vale defences from Brendan Dowling file. More in: The Mona Vale-Bungan Beach-Bayview tank traps: Coastal Defences of Pittwater During World War Two - Some History

Even during this period Warringah Shire Council records from meetings state:

J V Austin: requesting that Bayview baths be repaired and made shark-proof. Resolved: That the first Bayview matter be "received", that the safety fence be re-netted, and £25, the amount of the Engineer's estimate, voted for it; and (c) that the baths be repaired-by the maintenance staff. (Crs. Campbell, Hitchcock) 4/2/1941

 

16/12/1941 (NB: there was no wire for use during wartime for this - everything was needed for the war effort): By Cr. Williams - In view of the danger to swimmers in the Bayview baths from sharks, could the front of the baths be rewired this week, or a notice erected warning against the use of the baths? The President replied that the Engineer would be instructed to endeavour to re-wire the front of the baths before the holidays.

 

Evacuation Circular letter from Minister for National Emergency Services, 16/1/42, to Town and Shire Clerks, regarding arrangements which must be made to deal with the evacuation, if and when considered necessary, of the civil population from areas affected or likely to be affected by enemy action, and placing responsibility for such work on Councils. On the recommendation of the President it was resolved that a Special Meeting of the Council be held after the meeting of the Finance Committee on Tuesday next 27th inst. for the purpose of considering the matter. It was decided, on the suggestion of Cr. Williams, that the Bayview Military Authorities be requested to delay the completion of the Wharf wiring of Bayview wharf for as long as deemed advisable in order that the public may continue to use the wharf as long as possible. The Shire Clerk, through the President, sought permission to order 6,000 dodgers for house-to-house distribution in B and C. Ridings in connection with the collection of aluminium for war purposes, and desired authority was given. 

By early 1943 - with no maintenance done for two years - the wharf was closed. Although this wharf may not have been a 'cargo' wharf during times when food was rationed, it was still then, as now, a vital part of community infrastructure as a means for emergency medical evacuations as well as a place from which to evacuate people in the instance of a bushfire occurring and road passages being blocked. It was vital that the Council, even during these times, honour its responsibility to maintain working infrastructure:

Reporting that Bayview Wharf had been closed off and a notice erected pending repairs: The Engineer orally reported he had been in touch with three or four divers whose services could be obtained when they were available, that the Council "would pay anything up to £100", and when they had finished their work the Council would be free to operate on the rest of the Wharf: 5/1/1943

Submitting progress report in regard to repairs at Bayview wharf : "Received" 19/1/1943

The SHIRE ENGINEER'S REPORT was dealt with as follows:- (1) Submitting report on the progress of the work of repairing Bayview Wharf, and what is still to be done, and giving estimates: Wharf Resolved, - That the work be carried on and completed, and that £300 amount of the Engineer's estimate, be voted to cover the cost of the whole work. (Crs. McLean, Bathe) 2) Reporting that portion of Taylor's Point wharf has collapsed, submitting estimates of the cost of necessary repairs, stating that notices have been erected at the wharf advising that the wharf is closed: Resolved, - That the necessary repairs be proceeded with, and that £100, the amount of the Engineer's estimate, be voted for the work. (Crs. Batho, Hitchcock) 2/2/1943

 

12/10/1943: Cr. Hitchcock: Can something be done to the Bayview baths to make them usable? The President replied that the work would be done if wire can be obtained. 

 

Petition (per J. W. Austin) 14/10/43, from 59 residents of Bayview for the placing of the baths adjacent to Bayview wharf in good repair. Resolved, - They be informed that the Council has no wire netting, and asked if they are able to obtain any. (Crs. Batho, Hitchcock)

 

12/9/1944: J. W. Austin, 29/8/44, regarding a previous petition for the re-wiring of Bayview baths, and the Council's intimation that the necessary wire could not be obtained, stating he Bayview understands Mr. Coatin, of Church Point, could procure some Baths for the Council. Resolved, - He be informed the Engineer is taking steps to obtain the wire. 

 

12/12/1944: By Cr. Morrow - Can the work of wiring the Bayview baths be done as soon as possible? The President replied that this Baths work was well in hand. 

 

9/1/1945: Resolved, - That the Engineer submit an estimate of the cost Baths of concreting the piles at the Bayview baths.

30/1/1945: Submitting estimate, £50, for concreting alternate piles Bayview in the deep water section at Bayview baths: Resolved, - That £50 be voted for this work. (Crs. Forster, McLean)

Worth noting, at the cessation of hostilities:

Manly Area To Have Ambulance Launches

AUSTRALIA'S first marine motor ambulances are being installed in the Manly-Pittwater-Broken Bay district for the rescue of accident victims from areas inaccessible by road.

THE service will be introduced by  the Manly District Ambulance, which will form a special sub-station in October at the former Pittwater Aquatic Club building. Two high-powered motor-launches have been converted from pleasure craft to marine ambulances. The launches will cover 30 square miles of waterway in their service. Longest single trip will be to Refuge Bay, 18 miles from the station. Other places which come into the launches' area are Soldiers' Point, Mackerel and Little Mackerel Points, Kurrawong, The Basin, and several tributaries. Seamanship Course Officers assigned to the duty are being given courses in elementary, seamanship, . and adapting their ambulance work. The The craft will carry the insignia of the N.S.W. Ambulance Transport Service Board a red Maltese cross on a white background. A Red Cross flag will be flown from the jackstaff. A full-dress white uniform adapted for the service will be worn during the summer. It is intended to equip the launches , with diving helmets and oxygen pumps for rescue work in moderate to shallow waters. " Motor ambulances will be stationed at the new building so that serious cases can be rushed to hospital. Manly Area To Have Ambulance Launches (1946, September 21). Daily Mirror (Sydney, NSW : 1941 - 1955), p. 5 (Special Racing Edition). Retrieved from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article272937177 

The hall at Bayview was then used for a while as an ambulance station.

HOW THE KILLER GOT AWAY

The police have pieced together the movements of Fisher's taxi on Saturday from information supplied by numerous telephone callers. This is the picture they have got:

8 A.M.-Fisher left home to start work.

10.30.-Taxi seen by Mr. C. Clark, whose Church Point store is about three-quarters of a mile from the culvert where Fisher was found.

WIFE-"Had To Skip"

10.45_Mrs. Wymark, on her way to buy groceries, heard the taxi coming, with its engine full-out. She said yesterday "If I hadn't skipped out of the way it would have hit me. We very rarely see coloured taxis out here They are mostly private hire cars. That is why I noticed its cream and orange colour. When I saw the description in the Sunday papers I immediately told the police "

The taxi was travelling towards Mona Vale

10.55-Mr C Williams ambulance officer at Bayview, saw the taxi rush past the ambulance station, heading for Mona Vale.

“I knew Fisher and I know his taxi," he said "Every time he went past he hooted his horn to say good day.

"I was in the garden, but this time there was no hoot "

MR. C. WILLIAMS

11.30.-Mr M Daddry, of  Roseville Road, Beacon Hill who works for the same employer as Fisher did was looking out of the window with his wife and saw the taxi on Pittwater Road going towards the city

Mr. Daddry slid to his wife, ‘Gee, Ted must be late to work.'

12 10 pm-Mr Chris Mallis who owns Fisher’s cab saw the taxi being driven along Oxford Street city by a thin stranger He challenged him and the man got out of the cab. He ran away as Mr. Malus was questioning him.

The police believe that Fisher, who lived in Oaks Avenue, Deewhy, was murdered at about 10 a.m. on Saturday. 

They want to interview a man aged about 18 to 20, 5ft 7in to 5ft 11in tall, very thin build, fairly fair complexion clear skin, very fair hair, parted on left side (hair on right side of parting tends to stand up a little), thin features, clean shaven. He was dressed in a brown, possibly check, sports coat, sports trousers, and white shirt.

It is believed Fisher may have been in the back of the car dead for some time before the killer dumped him in the culvert.

After Mr. Malus took over the taxi in Oxford Street, detectives found a .22 cartridge shell and Fisher's wrist watch and a cigarette lighter on the back seat. Later, a Paddington man found a sawn off 22 calibre rifle in his backyard He handed it to police

SEARCH-Scrub And Roads

On Saturday night, Superintendent H E Snowden, Detective Inspector J Rogers and Detective Inspector M F Calman organised yesterdays big police search. They scientifically searched roads and dense scrub over a wide area.

They are searching for a fibre seat cover which was missing from the murdered man's taxi.

They appeal to anyone who finds it to contact the C.I.B. immediately.

Detective-Inspector J. Rogers, Detective-Inspector M. Caiman, Detective-Sergeant Crowley, Detectives W Cannings and K. Brown, and other C.I.B. men are leading the hunt for the killer

Police are impressed by similarity of the murder with the Southport taxi-murder last month. The blood-stained taxi of Athol Henry McCowan was found on the seafront at South-port, near Brisbane, towards the end of May. McCowan was found murdered in a creek a week later after a manhunt in which more than 1,000 people took part. His murderer has not yet been found. HOW THE KILLER GOT AWAY. (1952, June 30). The Sydney Morning Herald (NSW : 1842 - 1954), p. 1. Retrieved from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article18271020 

Three people were injured yesterday when two cars collided head on in Bayview Road, Bayview, outside the Pittwater branch of Manly Ambulance.

Injured were: Miss Laura Greenwood, 37, of Thornley Street, Leichhardt, fractured right arm and laceration to face, scalp and hand; Miss Leslie Utting, 22, of Ellison Street, Ringwood, Melbourne, lacerations to both, legs and injuries to the back; Hugh Giblin, 38, solicitor, of Bay-view Road, Church Point, laceration to the forehead. Child Dies On Road At Glebe (1953, March 15). The Sunday Herald (Sydney, NSW : 1949 - 1953), p. 3. Retrieved  from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article18502491 

Cedric M Williams moved from rowing to sailing as his post-war sport of choice and was involved at BYRA from the outset. 

Cedric M Williams, sailing on Pittwater in early BYRA boat - to the right can be seen the Clareville torpedo wharf. Photo: courtesy Cedric V Williams

YACHT CLUBS AT PITTWATER

Bayview Yacht Club had its first invitation race with the Royal Prince Alfred club at Pittwater today. The Bayview club has expanded since it was formed by Commodore K. C. K. Dalton about 18 months ago. YACHT CLUBS AT PITTWATER (1951, September 22). The Sun (Sydney, NSW : 1910 - 1954), p. 7 (FINAL FOOTBALL LASTRACE). Retrieved from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article229732435 

RESTAURANT DESTROYED

Bayview Inn restaurant, Bayview Rd., Bayview, was destroyed by fire last night. The building was insured for £2000. Officer Williams of the Pittwater Ambulance noticed the fire at about 10.50 last night and immediately phoned fire brigades. Owner Abroad 

Three brigades under District Officer Slater attended but could not save the building. It is thought that the fire broke out in the kitchen, the wood and fibro building soon becoming a mas of flames. The owner, Miss Thelma Austin, Flat 8. Werrington Macleay St., Potts Pt, is travelling abroad. RESTAURANT DESTROYED (1951, December 6). Daily Mirror (Sydney, NSW : 1941 - 1955), p. 4 (Late Final Extra 2). Retrieved from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article275732020 

SKIFFS MAY TRANSFER

Narrabeen Lakes 16-footer Club may transfer to Pittwater in the New Year. NSW Skiff Association Commodore Keg &mee is. negotiating with Bayview Yacht Club officials to affiliate the . Narrabeen Lakes Club with BYRA. BYRA would sponsor the 16 - footers, but the skiffs would have their own officials' to control racing and club administration. 

"There is plenty of room for 16-footers and yachts at Pittwater, and we would welcome the Narrabeen Lakes skiffs," said BYRA Commodore K. C. K. Dalton today. Star class yachts from Bayview will compete at Avalon tomorrow. Avalon VJ and VS Club members will sail as crew members of yachts. SKIFFS MAY TRANSFER (1951, December 31). The Sun (Sydney, NSW : 1910 - 1954), p. 13 (LAST RACE LATE TEST SCORES). Retrieved from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article230833358 

BAYVIEW RACES

Bayview Yacht Club will hold races for all classes at Pittwater' on Sunday. Commodore K.C.K. F. Dalton expects a big roll-up. BAYVIEW RACES (1952, January 4). The Sun (Sydney, NSW : 1910 - 1954), p. 13 (LATE FINAL EXTRA). Retrieved from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article230101518 

More than 100 VJs will compete for trophies donated by the Bayview Yacht Club at Pittwater tomorrow. BYRA will control the event in conjunction with their usual yacht racing. BYRA is helping to sponsor smaller craft to encourage young skippers. The club has presented-trophies for VJ, VS and 16 - footer events this season. BYRA will also control the Australian championship for Dragon class yachts next month. TROPHY RACES AT PITTWATER (1952, March 29). The Sun (Sydney, NSW : 1910 - 1954), p. 6 (FINAL FOOTBALL LAST RACE). Retrieved from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article229637213 

NEW OFFICIALS AT BAYVIEW

Mr. Cedric Williams has been elected commodore of the Bayview Yacht Racing Association, replacing Mr. K. C. K. Dalton, who did not seek re-election. Williams is a former lightweight champion professional and amateur sculler. Mr. N. Gehrig is the new vice-commodore, with Mr. E. Cotter as rear-commodore. NEW OFFICIALS AT BAYVIEW (1952, September 29). Daily Mirror (Sydney, NSW : 1941 - 1955), p. 24 (Late Final Extra). Retrieved from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article276504814 

PITTWATER COMMODORE

Prominent Bayview yachting skipper K. C. K. Dalton has again been appointed commodore of the Pittwater regatta to be held on December 26 or 28 this year. Miss M. Cullen will be secretary of the regatta. This was announced at the meeting of the committee last night. Pittwater made a profit of £240 on the regatta of December 27. PITTWATER COMMODORE (1953, January 31). The Sun (Sydney, NSW : 1910 - 1954), p. 10 (LAST RACE LATE CRICKET). Retrieved from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article230846220 

The Council's lease of the waterway at Bayview for the baths:

APPLICATIONS FOR LEASES FOR SPECIAL PURPOSES.

THE undermentioned applications have been received for Special Leases of the lands and for the purposes hereunder stated. It is the intention to grant the leases should no sufficient objection be found to exist after inquiry by the Land Board and consideration' by the Minister. Any objections will receive due consideration if lodged in writing with the District Surveyor for the Land Board District in which the laud is situated.

F. H. HAWKINS. Minister for Lands.

Parish Narrabeen, county Cumberland: Special Lease 1931-49, Metropolitan, for bathing place. Land applied for—2 roods 2 perches below high-water mark of Pittwater, near the junction of Bayview-road and Fermoy-avenue, Bayview. Applicant—Warringah Shire Council. Objections may be lodged at the Land Board Office, Sydney. APPLICATIONS FOR LEASES FOR SPECIAL PURPOSES. (1953, January 9). Government Gazette of the State of New South Wales (Sydney, NSW : 1901 - 2001), p. 82. Retrieved from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article220005329 

Warringah Shire Council's Minutes of Meetings record fee:

19/1/1953: Land Office, 5/1/53, offering Special Lease for a Bayview term of eight years in respect of the site occupied by the Baths, at a rental of £1 per annum (following re- appraisement) . 29. Resolved: That the Council accept the Department's offer of an year extension of this Special Lease, and that the Council's Seal be affixed to any covering documents, if necessary. (Crs. McKay, Quinlan)

'Re-claiming' the Bayview foreshores: 1958 to 1963

Post-war, when the materials shortage that everyone experienced had abated, the Bayview wharf and its surrounds became part of the 'go-ahead 1950's' with those who had already been alongside this structure for decades bringing it into the realms of new enterprise, with an eye, by the Public Service and the Council, on keeping it for all.

The Council was also taking part in the Cumberland County Council scheme to resume land everywhere. Alike the earliest subdivisions, that required developers to dedicate reserves and pathways between hills and on beaches to the council, that taken for permanent access to the waterways of Pittwater was ostensibly to ensure the views and reserves that are enjoyed today cannot be sold off. 

However, one element the Warringah Shire Council used this for during this era, the 'Pacific Paradise' venture, would eventually lead to Pittwater people deciding to rid themselves of this council and form their own. The culture within the council then led to Warringah Shire Council being dismissed in April 1967 by the Askin State Government. The dismissal was a result of two councillors, Dennis Thomas and George Knight, being jailed for bribery. The councillors were charged under the Secret Commissions Prohibition Act 1919 (NSW) for taking bribes from a development company to influence planning and development decisions. 

However, it didn't start out that way, although even today residents lament what was done and the way it was done.

LOCAL GOVERNMENT ACT, 1919.

Cumberland County Council,: Proposed Resumption of Land at Bayview.

HIS Excellency the Lieutenant-Governor, with the advice of the Executive Council, and in pursuance of the Local Government Act, 1919, has approved of the Cumberland County Council's causing a notice of resumption of the land described in the Schedule hereto, together with a description of such land, to be published in the Government Gazette and in a newspaper circulating in the area in which the land is located, such land being required by the Cumberland County Council for the purpose of carrying into effect the provisions of the County of Cumberland Planning Scheme. (S. 56-2,579)

Schedule.

All that piece or parcel of land situate in the Shire of Warringah, parish of Narrabeen and county of Cumberland, having a frontage to Pittwater-road, being lot 5a in deposited plan 11,186 and being part of the land comprised in Certificate of Title, registered volume 3,432, folio 16, and shown on plan with the Department of Local Government, Sydney.

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

Sydney, 28th September, 1956. (446) LOCAL GOVERNMENT ACT, 1919. (1956, September 28). Government Gazette of the State of New South Wales (Sydney, NSW : 1901 - 2001), p. 2812. Retrieved from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article220390768 

Lot 5a, on the waterfront at Bayview on was owned by Clyde Malley, Company Director of Sydney. Volume 3,432, folio 16 provides a map of where 5a was prior to being taken - the previous Vol/Fols of 1357-32 was part of Maybanke Anderson's estate and 2 acres, while Vol/Fol 656-94 was bought in 1883 by Charles Benson, farmer of Pittwater.

Volume 3,432, folio 16:

Although this is not clearly stated in the Council Records (which apparently were lost through a fire), what the Council were doing was filling in the foreshore with dirt, rocks, and some of it dredged form the estuary itself, to make areas to park cars. Adjacent to these  parklands and reserves were installed as well.

This would quickly lead to larger marinas being installed on the estuary shorefronts, along with more land being 'reclaimed' from the public waterways for the parking of vehicles at Church Point, in front of the RMYC, and at Winnererremy Bay. 

The Warringah Shire Council also did this on the southern side of the Bayview Baths and Wharf from 1961 to a completion of before the 1963 Application for Lease which shows they have gone from needing permission to make use of 2 roods to 24 perches.

A few Minutes from the Meetings of the Warringah Shire Council of then chart the changes - including the Williams boatbuilders being required to do this on the north side of the wharves well;

 

13/10/1958: Pittwater Road Bayview - Application by J.L. and C.M. Williams for Special Purchase for land adjacent to Bayview baths, and request for permission to instal petrol pump on this land 14 ft from the street alignment  Resolved, - That consideration of the application be deferred and that Messrs. J.L. and C.M. Williams and the Cumberland County Council be informed that the Council is not prepared to give its opinion or a decision in this matter until such time as the applicants place before this Council plans for the re-modelling of existing installations to meet the Council's foreshore requirements and to improve the area for the benefit of the public. (Crs. Fisher, Corkery)

 

2/2/1959: Item (9) Letter from Cumberland County Council requesting Council's views on application by J.L. & G.M. Williams for "Special Purchase" covering land adjacent to Bayview Baths. Moved by Councillor Berry, seconded by Councillor Reynolds that this matter be referred to the next Meeting of the Finance Committee for consideration to the granting of a "Special Lease". This Motion was carried on the President's casting vote. 

 

25/5/1959: Item D17. Pittwater Road Bayview - Letter from J. Williams & Sons, regarding their application for Special Lease adjacent to Bayview Baths, and requesting consideration of Councils requirements for a parking area of 30 cars: 14.Resolved - that in regard to this application Council inform J. Williams & Sons that the full terms of Council's Resolution of the 21st April must be adhered to. (Crs. Fisher/Wilson.)

''As part of an agreement with council permitting them to re-build their boat-shed, J Williams and Sons part-filled the Baths to create the present Reserve and car park. The tram line was removed around this time. The Roche family continued to sell lots from the Roche Estate, and to donate land to add to Bayview Park.'' - Dr. Jenny Rosen AM

Council's Minutes of Meetings share:

1/6/1959 Meeting: Bayview-Church Point Progress Association, regarding Bayview- Winji Jimmi development-scheme,-stating that members are not in favour of the scheme in its present form, that the Association wishes to be kept advised of the progress of negotiations. with Pacific 'Paradise Pty. Ltd..-:including provisions. of any lease drawn up; and asking that the Council send representatives to a .special meeting of the Association to fully describe its intentions concert ruing the swamp development; also asking for a full reply to its letter of 18th .March. Moved by Cr. Berry, seconded by .Cr. Wilson, that this letter be received;, and that the letter of ' the 18th March be fully replied to.

The Ordinary Meeting held on 7/9/1959 records:

At the last meeting the Council resolved to dispose of this land by means of public tender, tenderers to be required to submit detailed plans of their proposals for development and to state the amount they are prepared to pay, to the Council. 

The President discussed this matter during the week with the Engineer/Planner and myself, and we believe that as the land has not yet been released from the Green Belt the Council should refrain from requiring; prospective tenderers to submit detailed plans of their proposals for development. If, on reconsideration, the Council agrees with this viewpoint, but still desires to offer the land for sale by tender, it is recommended that it approve the following procedure:_(1) That tenderers be permitted to tender either for the 27 ac. 3 rd. 12 per. lying south of unnamed road 45 ft. wide, or for the 10 ac. 3 rd. 39 per. lying north of such unnamed road, or for the whole area of 38 ac. 3 rd. 11 per. (2) That tenderers are to state the price they are prepared to pay on the clear understanding that 25% of such amount is to be paid on the signing of the contract, which must be completed within fourteen days of notification of acceptance of tender, and that the remaining 75% is to he paid on the completion of the transfer. (3) That tenderers be required to lodge a deposit, with the tender equivalent to 5% of the total price tendered, that such deposit shall be received by the, Council as an expression of the good faith of the tenderer, and that it be made clear that such deposit will be retained by the Council if the successful tenderer declines to complete the purchase.. (4)That the advertisement contain the words ;the land is zoned 'Green Belt' and is included in the Cumberland County Council s for later re-zoning for urban purposes.; (5)It is proposed to insert this advertisement (subject to the Council's direction to the contrary) in the Sydney Morning Herald, the Daily Telegraph, the Manly Daily, the Pittwater Pioneer and the Manly-Warringah News. It is further proposed to have a plan of the are prepared, a copy of which will be handed to any interested person. The Town Planner has stated that if the Cumberland County Council released this land from the Green Belt the County Council is in a position to impose, as ,a condition precedent to release, the manner to which the land shall be developed.; _ Moved by Cr. Reynolds, seconded by Cr. McClelland, that this report by the Shire Clerk be ;received; and adopted. An amendment was moved by ,Cr. Fisher, seconded by_Cr. Job, that the entire matter be referred back to Council for consideration as to the terms and conditions and that tenders be called for the development of the area on a basis similar to that of the Bayview Reclamation Scheme. This amendment was DEFEATED.,-A further amendment was thereupon move by, Cr. Joner,, seconded by Cr. Fisher, that Council retain this land and make urgent representations to the Minister for Loral Government, for a change to zoning from Green Belt to Residential;. This further of amendment was DEFEATED. ' ' .ts„ The motion was thereupon CARRIED, and upon;r Division being taken the voting was: For Crs. Cooper, Berry, Corkery; McClelland, Reynolds, . Against Fisher; Job, Jones. 

The size of the land reclaimed by the Williams for 30 cars, as this was passed, was:

APPLICATIONS FOR LEASES FOR SPECIAL PURPOSES

THE undermentioned applications have been received for special lease of the lands and for the purposes hereunder stated. It is the intention to grant the leases should no sufficient objection be found to exist after inquiry by the Local Land Board and consideration by the Minister. Any objection will receive due consideration if lodged in writing with the District Surveyor for the Land Board District in which the land is situated.

J. M. A McMAHON, Minister for Lands.

Parish Narrabeen, county Cumberland; Special Lease, No. 1959-37, Land District Metropolitan, for Reclamation, Boatshed, Jetty, Skids and Slip. Land applied for, about 1 rood 31 perches, below high-water mark of Pittwater on the western side of public wharf at Bay View, being the area held by applicants as Permissive Occupancy 1957-391. Applicant, John Lloyd Williams and Cedric Morton Williams. Objections may be lodged at Land Board Office, Sydney. (L.B. 59-351). APPLICATIONS FOR LEASES FOR SPECIAL PURPOSES (1959, December 11). Government Gazette of the State of New South Wales (Sydney, NSW : 1901 - 2001), p. 3846. Retrieved from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article220310492 

The following year, at the Meeting held 14th of March 1960:

A. Riding Progress and Allied Associations, 9/2/1960,. (a) Congratulating Council on its stand regarding definition of ;A; Class and ;C; Class Flats, and asking for advice, in due course, as to the minimum area per residential block on which flats of either class can be erected; (b) Protesting against Council's action to permit the erection of Clubhouse by Pittwater Aquatic Club on Winji Jimmi Park, Newport, and asking that Council disregard the petition on behalf of the Club as it is understood very few of the signatories are residents and that many of the residents were misled in the matter to gain their written support for the proposal; and (c) requesting Council to advise the Association of the plans submitted for the erection of the Bayview project so that it can be studied, and asking that all details of the scheme be made public including Council's requirements by way of guarantees, the principals involved, etc. so that the public will be in a position to judge the matter on its merits. re (a) Noted. 52 At this juncture Councillor Wade vacated the Council Chamber. Resolved._re (b) That the Association be informed that Council is still investigating the matter. (Crs. Fisher/Job). Councillor Wade returned to the Chamber. 54. Resolved _re (c) That the Association be advised that the information is available if its representatives care to come to Council's office. (Crs. Wilson/Job). (The President asked that the Shire Clerk look into the matter of the principals; involved.) 

What is being spoken about here is a private development by Warringah Shire Council in partnership with developer ‘Pacific Paradise’.

More may be heard and read about this scheme in: Dorothy Hawkins a film by John Illingsworth and in John's  'Winnererremy Bay: Angus Gordon' - the sequel to the 'Dorothy Hawkins' film.

The council was using its powers of 'resumption' to take people's lands - whole lots in a row, and acres of them - to facilitate their Pacific Paradise venture. What was happening at Bayview public wharf and Baths was a part of this 'vision'. 

The Council Meeting held 28 March 1960 records in its Minutes:

(C).. The Winji Jimmi. Area Progress Association, advising that at a meeting of residents held on the 8th February the Winji Jimmi Area Progress Association was formed of residents and ratepayers within a one mile radius of Winji Jimmi Point, and that the objects of the Association are the preservation and improvement of the natural beauty of Winji Jimmi Point and the area, and the safeguarding of the interests of the residents and ratepayers generally. Further thanking Council for meeting the residents on the 8th February and for the 'interest shown in this matter since the residents lodged their petition. . 32.Resolved,.-That the Winji Jimmi Area Progress Association be congratulated on its formation and it be assured that this Council will do its best to co-operate with it. (Crs. Fisher/Job).

The Ordinary Meeting held on 27/6/1960:

Re Item 2(v) _Application for subdivision; Pittwater Road, Bayview. Applicant J.L. Hagan - owners, E. Collins and E. & M. Roche. Part Portion 29 (amended Diagram; 36 allotments). Resolved; That the Committee's recommendations be adopted and in addition the land set aside for public garden and recreation space be constructed, beautified, and playground equipment to the Engineer's satisfaction be installed therein. (Crs. Jones/Miles.)

In the Ordinary Meeting held on 5/9/60: 

3. PITTWATER ROAD. BAYVIEW _(a) Report by Town Planner, 15/8/60, as instructed, regarding activities of the Bayview Store, following letter from J. Williams and Sons, requesting an investigation of same; (b) letter, 30/7/60, from J. Clunies-Ross, protesting against activities at Bayview Store; (c) letters from Land Board Office and Cumberland County Council, requesting Council's views on application 7_by H.T.L. Baker and J.S. Baker for Special Lease adjoining the Bayview Store: RECOMMENDATION: That, should Council agree that Mr. Baker is exercising his rights under Clause 33 of the County of Cumberland Town Planning Ordinance, the lease application be approved, subject to (a) the lease area and reclamation being confined to those areas suggested by the Lands Department;.. (b) Council requiring the buildings to be moved back from the new alignment of Pittwater Road a distance of 50', this requirement to be a condition of lease approval' and to be put into effect immediately after reclamation is complete.

The Ordinary Meeting, held on 19/9/1960 records;

Bayview-Church Point Progress Association, 31/8/60 - protesting against multi-unit Development in Bayview Point and any other localities, for example, at the beaches and adjacent to shopping centres, the Association considering that definite zones of such permissible development should be established by Council's Town Planners with due regard to the preservation of views and the provision of adequate garden space to avoid creation of another Bondi. Referring to the difficulty which will arise in regard to rating and sewage disposal. Resolved, - That the Association be invited to send a 53' maximum of' three of their representatives to interview the Deputy Town Planner, whose can explain to them the impart of Council's policy in this regard in the area in which they are concerned. (Crs. Brown/Job.) (S) Mrs. A. Morrison 'Chase Avenue Roseville, 29/8/60 - repeating her previous roguests that the matter of Farley & Lowers Limited's operations at Davidson Park be fully investigated. , Resolved, - That Mrs. Morrison be advised that her request should be addressed to the Minister for Lands as the responsible authority. (Crs. Fisher/Brown.) (T) Farley & Lowers Limited, 12 Mount Street, North Sydney, 7/9/60- enclosing copies of letters sent by them to the National Trust of Australia and Tree Lovers League, relative to their sand dredging operations at Middle Harbour, which outlines the value of the work of reclamation being carried out by them, and on completion of their operations the upper reaches of Middle Harbour will be navigable and swamp areas will be reclaimed, thus providing public recreation and good access to the upper reaches. 55. Noted. (U) Commonwealth Department of Works, 5/9/60 - re sewerage facilities for R.A.A.F. Station at Brookvale and Council's request that any connecting line for this locality should provide for the sewering of the-whole--locality between Brookvale and Beacon Hill – stating that the Water, Sewerage & Drainage Board has advised that other -more densely populated parts of the Brookvale gravitation area will be sewered before that adjacent to the R.A.A.F. Establishments and unless the Board is persuaded to give priority to the comparatively sparsely populated area west of Brookvale, it is likely to be many years before the area are sewered. The Department's proposal to establish a line is to cut the present tanker service 'costs and the Department now asks that Council reconsider the matter and withdraw its condition of approval; Council's other Conditions (e) to.(f).are: acceptable. 

Minutes of the Ordinary Meeting of Warringah Shire Council held on the 31st October, 1960 record:

Metropolitan Water Sewerage and Drainage Board, 19/10/60, notifying watermain extensions in Gumbooya Street, North Manly, Holland Crescent, French's Forest, Altona Avenue and Virginia Place, Forestville, Loquat Valley Road, Bayview, and Meehan Street, Dee Why; and sewer extensions in Kenneth Road, Manly Vale. 37. Resolved, - That the Board be thanked. (era. Job/Fisher.) 

The 28/11/1960 Meeting BYRA is trying to acquire the clubhouse/old boatshed the Williams used as their clubhouse:

the only case in N.S.W. They have now decided to acquire 2 -8 ft. training dinghies of a design to be known as the 'Bayview Cub'; as a nucleus of a training fleet for the early training of school-age members. They require the use of this boatshed adjoining their clubhouse for use as the headquarters for their junior training scheme or as a workshop for club members. 62.Resolved, _That the matter be deferred and referred to the Shire Clerk in conjunction with the Shire Engineer for report to the Town Planning Development Committee. (Crs. Brown/Jones). The Palm Beach & District Citizens' Association, 22/11/60 - strongly protesting against any action which would have the effect of interfering with the natural habitat of the many types of rare birds which congregate in the Dee Why Lagoon Area; the Association's attention has been drawn to a report that it was proposed that an area be withdrawn from the Reserve for the purpose of a playing field or some other recreation. 65.Resolved; That the Association be thanked for its information, and be informed that this Council at all times will take into account the value of flora and fauna before taking any action. (Crs. Fisher/ Brown).

The Council's Bayview Baths lease records the footprint of the bathing place at the end of 1960:

APPLICATION FOR LEASE FOR SPECIAL PURPOSE

THE undermentioned application has been received for Special Lease of the lands and for the purpose hereunder stated. It is the intention to grant the lease should no sufficient objection be found to exist after inquiry by the Local Land Board and consideration by the Minister. Any objection will receive due consideration if lodged in writing with the District Surveyor for the Land Board District in which the land is situated.

A. G. ENTICKNAP, Acting Minister for Lands.

Parish Narrabeen, county Cumberland; Special Lease No. 1960-105, Land District Metropolitan, for Bathing Place. Land applied for 2 roods 2 perches, below high-water mark of Pittwater, being portion ^, plan Ms. 8,305 Sy. Applicant, Warringah Shire Council. Objections may be lodged at Land Board Office, Sydney. (L.B. 60-786) (2483)'. APPLICATION FOR LEASE FOR SPECIAL PURPOSE (1960, December 9). Government Gazette of the State of New South Wales (Sydney, NSW : 1901 - 2001), p. 3920. Retrieved from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article220319120 

Another change - the boatbuilders were being required to turn their little sheds into small-marinas and fill in the bays or alter their flows and tides through dredging:

Sydney, 23rd December, 1960.

ALTERATION OF PURPOSE AND CONDITIONS OF A SPECIAL LEASE

IT is hereby notified that the purpose and conditions of the undermentioned Special Lease have been altered as shown below.

J. B. RENSHAW, Minister for Lands. 

Land District—Metropolitan; Shire—Warringah

Parish Narrabeen, county Cumberland; Special Lease 1948-1,051, of about 3 roods 6 ½ perches; holder, Harold Henry Griffin; from "Boatshed (boat building and repairing), slip, jetty and erection of buildings (shop)" to "Business purposes (boat building and repairing, slips, jetty and shop) and Reclamation", as from 8th December, 1960; annual rental to remain unaltered. The lease shall continue to be subject to the existing conditions attaching to the lease with the following special conditions added:—

(k) A building application for all structures shall be submitted to and approved by the Warringah Shire Council before any reclamation is commenced.

(1) The lessee shall maintain a fifty (50) feet building line from the new alignment of Pittwater-road.

(m) The lessee shall construct a paved car parking area to accommodate at least thirty (30) cars.

(n) A petrol pump to serve cars is not permitted on the land leased.

(o) No reconstruction shall commence on the land leased before the new alignment of Pittwater-road is pegged out and such reconstruction shall be to such levels as will enable access to be maintained readily when the road is constructed in the future, and the Department of Main Roads* requirements in this matter shall be sought and followed.

(p) The whole of the area at any time covered by buildings on the land leased shall be reclaimed.

(q) The lessee shall erect a physical road barrier along the new main road alignment, subject to the requirements of condition (o).

(r) The length of the jetty shall be reduced by dredging.

(s) The lessee shall not be exempted from the provisions of the Mooring Site Regulations—N.S.W., and he shall at all times comply strictly with the provisions of all other relevant Regulations and with the Acts administered by the Maritime Services Board of N.S.W.

(t) The lessee shall construct the retaining wall in such a manner that the filling will not escape into the water. Such wall shall be erected to a height of two (2) feet about the level of high-water. The lessee shall further advise the Maritime Services Board of N.S.W. when the construction of such wall has been completed. Ten. 60-6,059. ALTERATION OF PURPOSE AND CONDITIONS OF A SPECIAL LEASE (1960, December 23). Government Gazette of the State of New South Wales (Sydney, NSW : 1901 - 2001), p. 4102. Retrieved from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article220319808 

At the Meeting held on 16/10/1961: 

Bayview Launching Ramp it was resolved to recommend that this proposal be included in the scheme for Bayview Baths, and in the meantime the area be placed on the maintenance list. 30.Resolved, - that this item be received and adopted. :(Crs. Job/Wade).

COMPANIES ACT, 1936 (SECTION 67)

and the registered names of the following Companies have been changed:—

Bayview Boat Industries Pty. Limited changed to Cedric Williams & Son Pty. Limited.

(560) J. HL WATSON, Registrar-General. COMPANIES ACT, 1936 (SECTION 67) (1961, November 10). Government Gazette of the State of New South Wales (Sydney, NSW : 1901 - 2001), p. 3603. Retrieved from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article220286659

 

The Bakers go bigger and the Loves are still in Bayview:

APPLICATIONS FOR LEASES FOR SPECIAL PURPOSES

THE undermentioned applications have been received for Special Leases of the lands and for the purposes hereunder stated. It is the intention to grant the leases should no sufficient objection be found to exist after inquiry by the Local Land Board and consideration by the Minister. Any objection will receive due consideration if lodged in writing with the District Surveyor for the Land Board District in which the land is situated.

K. C. COMPTON, Minister for Lands.

Parish Narrabeen, county Cumberland; Special Lease No. 60-149, Land District Metropolitan, for Reclamation and Erection of Buildings. Land applied for, about 1 rood 33 perches below high-water mark of Pittwater, adjoining lots 6a, 8a and part 7a, deposited plan 11,186 Pittwater-road.; applicants, Henry Thomas Lonham Baker and Jean Stanford Baker. Objections may be lodged at Land Board Office, Sydney. (L.B. 60-1,011)

Parish Narrabeen, county Cumberland, Special Lease No. 60-4, Land District Metropolitan, for Jetty, Baths, Boatshed and Slip. Land applied for, about 1 rood 10 perches, below high-water mark of Pittwater, fronting lots 1 and 2, d.p. 11,423, at Bayview. Applicant, Clifford James Drummond Love. Objections may be lodged at Land Board Office, Sydney . (L.B. 60-25) (500)  APPLICATIONS FOR LEASES FOR SPECIAL PURPOSES (1961, November 17). Government Gazette of the State of New South Wales (Sydney, NSW : 1901 - 2001), p. 3694. Retrieved from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article220286894 

In August 1962 a timber extension at 90 degrees to the end of the wharf was added that included a rack for the storage of Star-class boats. This Notice in the Council Meeting held on August 7th 1962 would indicate much of the work was done:

Meeting held on 7/8/1962 REPORT BY SEM ENGINEER NO. G62/91; WORKS COMPLETED AND IN. HAND AS AT 31.7.1962. Bayview Baths:-During discussion on this report, Councillor Brown moved, seconded by Councillor Ellis, that the Engineer prepare an estimate for information to the next Parks & Reserves Committee Meeting for the extension of the wharf eastwards in front of the new baths. CARRIED. By Cr. Brown: Would you arrange maintenance to be given to the shelter shed at Bayview Courts and Bayview Baths toilets with particular emphasis on painting? Yes.

By June 1963 Warringah Shire Council was applying for a bigger area in their lease, which was approved by September:

APPLICATION FOR LEASES FOR SPECIAL PURPOSES

THE undermentioned applications have been received for special lease of the lands and for the purposes hereunder stated. It is the intention to grant the leases should no sufficient objection be found to exist after inquiry by the Local Land Board and consideration by the Minister. Any objection will receive due consideration if lodged in writing with the District Surveyor for the Land Board District in which the lands are situated.

K. C. COMPTON, Minister for Lands.

Parish Narrabeen, county Cumberland; addition to Special Lease 1960-105, Land District Metropolitan, for Bathing Place and Reclamation, Land applied for, about 24 perches, in two parts, below high-water mark of Pittwater, being north and east of and adjoining portion (Bayview Baths) held as Special Lease 60-105. Applicant, Warringah Shire Council. Objections may be lodged at Land Board Office, Sydney. (L.B. 62-415) APPLICATION FOR LEASES FOR SPECIAL PURPOSES (1963, June 7). Government Gazette of the State of New South Wales (Sydney, NSW : 1901 - 2001), p. 1669. Retrieved from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article220327608 

The Williams also had to adjust a few things as they then had accommodation on their site:

Sydney, 13th September, 1963.

ALTERATION OF PURPOSE OF SPECIAL LEASE

IT is hereby notified that the purpose of the undermentioned Special Lease has been altered as shown below.

K. C. COMPTON, Minister for Lands. Land District—Metropolitan; Shire—Warringah

Parish Narrabeen, county Cumberland, Special Lease 1959-37, portion 230, of 1 rood 26 ½  perches; holder, Bayview Boat Industries Pty. Ltd., of Pittwater-road, Bayview; from "Reclamation, Erection of Buildings (Boatshed), Skids, Slip and Jetty" to "Reclamation, Erection of Buildings (Boatshed and Caretaker's Accommodation), Skids, Slip and Jetty", as from 1st September, 1963, without alteration in the conditions on annual rental. Ten. 63-3,840. ALTERATION OF PURPOSE OF SPECIAL LEASE (1963, September 13). Government Gazette of the State of New South Wales (Sydney, NSW : 1901 - 2001), p. 2698. Retrieved from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article220336398 

By May 1964 the Council had added a bit more and had to follow certain regulations as things shifted at a state government level:

Sydney, 8th May, 1964.

ALTERATION OF PURPOSE AND CONDITIONS ANNEXED TO A SPECIAL LEASE

IT is hereby notified that the purpose and conditions of the undermentioned Special Lease have been altered as shown below.

K. C. COMPTON, Minister for Lands. Land District—Metropolitan; Shire—Warringah.

Parish Narrabeen, county Cumberland, Special Lease 1960-105, portion ^ of 2 roods 26 perches, title limited to the surface and a depth of 50 feet; holder, Warringah Shire Council of Shire Hall, Brookvale; from "Bathing Place" to "Bathing Place and reclamation". The lease shall be subject to subsections 1, 2, 4, 5, 7 to 14, 22, 35, and 59 of Regulation No. 106 (notified 22nd April, 1955) and to following special conditions:—

(a) All necessary provision shall be made to secure the privacy of persons frequenting the dressing sheds and the lessee Council shall be responsible for the proper conduct and cleanliness of such premises and shall compel all persons bathing to wear suitable costumes outside such buildings.

(b) Access without hindrance shall be afforded for purposes of supervision to any officer authorised by the Minister. 

(c) No dogs shall be allowed on the area leased.

(d) The lessee shall provide and maintain to the satisfaction of the Minister suitable and efficient sanitary accommodation.

(e) All improvements on the land leased shall be maintained in good order, condition and appearance during the whole term of the lease to the satisfaction of the Minister.

(f) The lessee shall have proper and sufficient life-saving appliances readily available at all times and shall have the depth of the water in different parts of the bathing area plainly shown.

(g) The lessee shall display at all times or cause to be displayed or affixed in conspicuous and convenient places proper printed instructions for the resuscitation of the apparently drowned.

(h) The lessee shall at all times keep the bathing area clear of loose rocks and stones, sharp shells, slime, seaweed, and any other objectionable matter or thing.

(i) The lessee shall keep the land leased enclosed with a substantial sharkproof fence on the northern and eastern boundaries and maintain such fence to the satisfaction of the Minister.

(j) The land leased shall at all times be open to public use free of all charges except on occasions for which approval of the Minister in writing to make a stipulated charge shall first have been obtained.

(k) A breach of any of the conditions or the occurrence of any indecent or disorderly conduct will render the lease liable to forfeiture.

(1) The lessee shall immediately upon enclosure of the land leased paint the top rail of the baths on the north and east sides and which is just above high water, white, and shall thereafter keep such rail painted white to the satisfaction of the Minister.

(m) Piles shall be erected to a height of three (3) feet above the level of high water ordinary spring tides.

(n) Outer corner piles to have bark stripped off two (2) feet down from the top and to be kept painted white, also wailing planks, if any, to be kept painted white.

(o) The retaining wall shall be constructed of substantial dry stone or concrete, and shall be so constructed that the filling will not escape into the water. Such wall shall be erected to a height of two (2) feet above the level of high water.

(p) Lessee shall not be exempted from the provisions of the Mooring Site Regulations—New South Wales, and shall at all times comply strictly with the provisions of all other relevant Regulations and with the Acts administered by the Maritime Services Board of New South Wales.

(q) For the purpose of appraisement of rent the term of the lease shall be divided into four (4) periods of seven (7) years each. The rent for the second, third and fourth periods may be reappraised either upon reference by the Minister or at the request of lessee made during the first six (6) months of the affected period. Ten. 63-6,977. ALTERATION OF PURPOSE AND CONDITIONS ANNEXED TO A SPECIAL LEASE (1964, May 8). Government Gazette of the State of New South Wales (Sydney, NSW : 1901 - 2001), p. 1477. Retrieved from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article220380197 

The following year all that was needed was; By Cr. Knight: Could Bayview Wharf dressing sheds have urgent maintenance? Yes 15/10/1965

The Pacific Paradise debacle went on and on until it fell over when the Council's partners, the developers, went broke:

MINUTES OF SPECIAL MEETING OF WARRINGAH SHIRE COUNCIL HELD IN THE COUNCIL CHAMBERS, BROOKVALE, ON TUESDAY, 15TH FEBRUARY, 1966, COMMENCING AT 8.00 P.M. ....

The Shire Clerk read the Notice calling the Special Meeting as follows; 

To discuss matters relating to current development proposals with two representatives of Pacific Paradise Pty. Limited, two representatives of Bayview-Church Point Progress Association and two representatives of Winji Jimmi Progress Association. The representatives of the various committees and Pacific Paradise Pty. Ltd. were:_Mr. Harrison, Secretary, Pacific Paradise Pty. Limited. Messrs. Patterson and Pearls _representing Bayview-Church Progress Association. Messrs. Porter and Clark, representing Winji Jimmi Progress Association. The President asked council its wish regarding the holding of the meeting and 1. it was resolved that the meeting be an ;Open; Meeting (Crs. Knight. Beckman) 2.Further Resolved, that copies of the Town Planner's Report to the meeting be circulated to members of the gallery. (Crs. Job/Huntingdon). The Shire President (assisted by the Shire Clerk where necessary) informed the mooting that the Agreement between the council and Pacific Paradise Pty. Limited was completed in January 1962 after years of planning, conferences, discussions relating to financing and procuration of the land and oovoiidI61 developments as outlined in the legend to the Agreement, which were read to the meeting. 

The Agreement provided for construction of the work in stages as follows: During first Fifty percent of dredging and reclamation, commencing at twelve months southern or Mona Street end of site. During second Completion of dredging and reclamation. twelve months Sea walls and pylon Marine and Marine Centre Motel, Betel Caravan park and ancillary facilities Service Station In the interpretation of this Schedule a reference to dredging and reclamation shall mean the dredging and reclamation as indicated in the layout plans PROVIDED ALWAYS that where plans and specifications have been approved in accordance with Clause 1 (c)(i) dredging and reclamation shall be deemed to refer to the dredging and reclamation so approved. During third Tourist Lodge and ancillary facilities twelve months Tennis Court Squash Court Bowling Greens Creche During fourth Night Club _Convention Hall and ancillary facilities twelve months Car Parking Areas Completion of all site works and landscaping. During fifth Boatshed, Fishing Centre and ancillary facilities twelve months Public Ferry Wharf Sea Bathe and Pontoon .Children's Play Centre and ancillary facilities. During sixth Gymnasium, Sports. Centre and ancillary facilities twelve months During seventh Swimming pool and ancillary f‘oili twelve months' Band Shell and kiosk and ancill sties ....

22/5/1967: ITEM 19 - SPECIAL LEASE, BAYVIEW BATHS. Consideration of a letter dated 16.5.67 from the Land Board Office, Sydney, notifying, without prejudice, that the District Surveyor will recommend to the Land Board that the annual rental for the Special Lease 1960/105 covering "Bayview Baths" be re-appraised at $15. RECOMMENDATION: That the proposed re-appraisal be accepted.

20/11/1967: 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.

A few insights into maintenance works, carried out year-round, and also as residents and visitors went into the swimming season:

Bayview Wharf and Baths. Repairs to floor, roof and walls of ladies' and gent's dressing sheds adjoining baths completed. 9/9/1968

Bayview Baths. Shell growth removed from steps and vertical rod sharkproof surrounds, prior to bluestone treatment on 23.9.68.

Could an additional 44 gal. drum be placed in each of the two reserves near the Bayview Wharf ? I will see if it can be done. 15/5/1972

In the 1970's, 'mystery' sculptures turned up from time to time throughout the Shire. The 'mystery' sculptor turned out to be Mick Leslie, who was working as a stonemason for the council at the time. Mick is responsible for the Easter Island statue by the steps in the Park.

During their bi-centennial visit in early 1988, the 1920's vice-regal visit of the Governor-General was eclipsed by a visit from Prince Charles and Princess Diana who went on a tour of Pittwater (Prince Charles' old playground) from Bayview wharf.

Prince Charles and Princess Diana at Bayview, courtesy Brian Friend OAM, formerly a Pittwater Water Policeman

The WSC Meeting held on 12/1/1985 records:

The building site pan service will be phased out by the end of 1985. The total income from service charges in 1986 on current rates will be reduced to approximately $21,000 with the loss of income from builders service charges per annum and the cost of rendering the service will be approximately $25,000. Many of the residences now receiving a pan service could be serviced by a septic tank system or connected to sewer. Council provides a pan service to Bayview Wharf Reserve, Wimbledon Reserve and Hinkler Park. Such a means of sanitation should not now be operated by Council for public use. It would be practical to relocate, provide a septic tank or pump to a sewer main to eliminate these three remaining Council sanitary pan serviced public toilet blocks. By 1986 it should only require two half days per week to service the remaining pans. ….. That funds be provided in the 1986 Estimates to upgrade the public toilet facilities at Bayview Wharf, Wimbledon Reserve and Hinkler Park to eliminate the present sanitary pan service.

The Meting held on 18/3/1986 records the: 

Building Programme: Bayview Baths, Amenity Block $44,000 by 29/7/1986 has become $45,000. Environment report at Special Meeting noted dying mangroves at baths as well as a need to put aside trees for preservation at Avalon Koala Reserve and colony.

A bit over a year later, at the Meeting held on the 15/12/1987; 

New construction, allocated, was suspended due to objections from residents and members of Bayview Church Point Progress Association; contractor’s were then told to demolish the unsafe current amenities structure and .... (?) requested to complete the construction of a concrete path to the public wharf and replace turf removed from the site.

Cedric Vincent Williams's photo of the Williams boatshed and the wharf and baths area alongside - a very much shorter wharf than the original which had to reach all the way to the shoreline (where the road perimeter is) - and the baths are fully enclosed.

In 1991 the Council was able, for the first time since they had to take responsibility of the Pittwater wharves back in 1906, achieve acceptance of, and dual-responsibility with the state government, for the public wharves which so many out of Pittwater make use of during each year. This enabled more funds to be directed towards their maintenance and replacement when that was required. 

Council Minutes of Meetings Finance and Personnel Committee Meeting, held 30th April 1991, record:

The Local Government Act also has several other Ordinances relating to wharves most notably Ordinance 35(A) which applies to public wharves described in that Ordinance of which the following are included in Warringah Shire:- 

A. Church Point Wharf 

B. Bayview Wharf 

C. Newport Wharf

D. Clareville Wharf (Paradise beach? – Clareville was demolished and removed in 1935)

E. Coal & Candle Creek 

F. Palm Beach Wharf I. 

G. Salt Pan Wharf 

H. Taylor's Point Wharf 

I. Great Mackarat Beach Wharf 

J.4 Wharves on Scotland Island (being Tennis Court Wharf, Eastern Wharf, Bells Wharf & Carols Wharf) 

K. Careel Bay Wharf ie 14 of the 28 wharves. 

Ordinance 35A appears to be primarily concerned with the Council's powers to regulate wharves principally used for industrial activities involving the dispatch and unloading of cargoes. Warringah Shire is the only metropolitan Council included in Ordinance 35A and a perusal of the others included in that Ordinance would seem to suggest that those wharves have a substantial or primary cargo application as opposed to passenger embarkation and/or general recreation usage. 

It is equivocal therefore whether the wharves in Warringah Shire should be included in Ordinance 35A and whether any special benefit is derived by inclusion of the Council's wharves in that Ordinance. However it would appear that the Metropolitan Lands Office places some significance on the inclusion of wharves in this Ordinance in as much as up until this time the Office has considered that wharves included in Ordinance 35A, being public wharves, require no separate or distinct tenure for the Crown Land they occupy. 

The Metropolitan Lands Office has objected to the commuter wharf and cargo wharf at Church Point being included in Ordinance 35A for reason that they are not public wharves, being set aside exclusively for the use of Scotland Island and Western Foreshore residents. Such an interpretation would appear to be a very narrow interpretation of Ordinance 35A in as much as this Ordinance appears to allow the Council to determine the purposes for which wharves contained within Ordinance SSA may be used, how they will be used and the order they will be used ie to permit some exclusivity of use. 

Further the powers permitted by Ordinance 35A would appear to be available to the Council through the provisions of Part XVI of the Local Government Act in as much as Section 415 permits Council to have full power to order and direct and do all things necessary in relation to the control of the berthing or removal of any vessel, the discharging and loading of cargo, the storage and removal of goods and generally in relation to the control of such wharf and any appliances connected therewith. - PAGE Minutes Ordinary Meeting - Warringah Shire Council 30th April 1991 

 (Item cont) 

What is unclear however is whether the Council is separately required to have a tenure arrangement with the Metropolitan Lands Office in respect of the Crown Land occupied by such a wharf. For instance whilst Section 414(1A) of the Act appears to permit the Council to declare a wharf constructed by it to be a public wharf, Section 415 implies that whether or not a wharf has been appointed a public wharf under any Act Council may collect rates prescribed by an Ordinance. ie Section 415 appears to place work for Ordinance 35 by permitting the Council to charge dues in respect of those public wharves. 

However the problem with that interpretation is that Ordinance 35 does not fix charges in relation to those public wharves unlike for instance Ordinances 35(C) - 35(T) concerning wharves within certain specific Local Government areas which do permit the collection of fees which may be fixed by the Council. There may be no benefit to Warringah Shire in the application of Ordinance 35(A) of the Local Government Act and the Council may be best to administer its wharves pursuant to the provisions of Section 414(1A) and 415 of the Local Government Act and Ordinance 35. It would appear appropriate that the Council seek legal advice on the effect of Ordinance 35(A), if any, to wharves in Warringah Shire; whether Section 414 and 415 and Ordinance 35 of the Local Government Act are sufficient to allow Council to regulate and administer its wharves and whether the Council requires any separate tenure from the Metropolitan Lands Office in relation to wharves within Warringah Shire. 

SPECIFIC WHARVES 

In 1985 the Council communicated with the Department of Local Government Act seeking to have Ordinance 35(A) amended to apply to all wharves in the Council's area. The Department of Local Government advised Council that the Metropolitan Lands Office objected to the status of a public wharf being given to the cargo and commuter wharf at Church Point for reason that these wharves were not available to the public and only available to residents of Scotland Island and the Western Foreshore. Further the Department advised Council that its request had been referred to the National Parks & Wildlife Services in respect of the Cottage Point Wharf which is wholly located within Kuring-gai Chase National Park. For some reason both the Department of Local Government and Council never pursued this original request to any finality. A number of issues need resolution: PAGE Minutes Ordinary Meeting - Warringah Shire Council 30th April 1991

(Item cont) 

Other options associated with the administration of this wharf would be to appropriately fence the wharf such that operations outside the recommended hours of operation could only be permitted to commercial operators whose access to this wharf is required to coincide with certain tides but which operations would clearly involve an onus on the operator to ensure that the operations were conducted in such a way as to minimise their impact to surrounding residents ie access to the wharf for normal and public operations would be limited to the time of 7.00am to 6.00pm as proposed in the regulations but commercial operators who purchase a key to the wharf would be permitted extended hours for their operation on the basis that those operations did not cause intrusive noise to surrounding residents. In the event that any particular operator breached the agreement then the bond paid in respect of their key purchase would be forfeited to Council and their continued access to the wharf at extended times denied. 

E. The Council may wish to consider whether all the remaining wharves are necessary. These wharves represent a considerable cost to Council as witnessed by the recent refurbishment cost associated with wharves on Scotland Island and the Elvina Bay South Wharf. Investigations are currently being undertaken into major maintenance required at the Palm Beach Wharf where substantial deterioration of the timber piles is apparent. It may be that the Council should seek to reduce the number of public wharves in Pittwater whose major function appears to be to provide for recreation boating and commercial boating operations and not for any commuter relation functions. One possibility is that the Council could either reduce the number of wharves or seek a direct commitment to funding from other Recreational Boating Authorities including the MSB whereby a percentage of mooring fees are paid for the capital replacement cost associated with wharves. 

F. Increasingly the Council is being requested to increase the provision of services associated with public wharf, including lighting, fresh water, garbage receptacles, storage and shelter facilities. Some of these facilities should appropriately attract a fee if an effective - policing and enforcement arrangement can be put in place. Enforcement is the responsibility of Council's wharfinger, but is predetermined by Council:- (a)Accepting the principle of user pays in respect of commuter operations at these wharves. (b)The adoption of appropriate regulations. (c)The employment of appropriate staff and vehicle to enable regular monitoring - this was rejected as an expanded level of the 1991 estimates. PAGE Minutes Ordinary Meeting - Warringah Shire Council 30th April 1991 ( General Manager/Shire Clerk

Finance and Personnel Committee Meeting, 30th . April 1991, (Item cont) RECOMMENDATION OF DEPUTY SHIRE CLERK - CORPORATE SERVICES '

1.. That the Council instruct its solicitors to advise on:- A. The Council's legal obligation to obtain, formal tenure associated with the land occupied by public wharves. B.. The appropriate provisions of the Act for the adoption and enforcement of regulations associated with public wharves and whether Ordinance 35A has any significance to wharves in Warringah Shire and particularly whether all public wharves should be included. 2. That the Council enquire from the National Parks & Wildlife Services its willingness to accept the responsibility for provision and ongoing maintenance of wharves at Cottage Point, Illawong Bay and Morning Bay, and failing that Service's acceptance, a further report be submitted to the Council addressing the closure and removal of these wharves. 3. That the Council establish a Committee of Scotland Island and Western Foreshore Resident Associations with a view to the establishment of a body of local residents to administer and operate the commuter wharf at Church Point. 4.That the Council adopt the regulations appended to the report (Appendix II) associated with the operation of the cargo wharf and establish discussions with commercial water transport operators as to the feasibility of a bonded key system to enable extended commercial operations of the cargo wharf, Church Point. 5.That the future provision of wharves in Pittwater and the adoption of regulations associated with those wharves including the payment of fees associated with commuter vessel storage and commercial operations, be investigated and a further report be brought forward to the Council. RECOMMENDED TO COUNCIL by the General Manager/Shire Clerk PACE Minutes Ordinary Meeting - Warringah Shire Council 30th April 1991

COUNCIL DECISION

Corporate Services. Finance and Personnel Committee Meeting 30th April 1991 7 12 Attachment; BP Ref 117 1. That the Council instruct its solicitors to advise on:_A. The Council's obligation to obtain formal tenure associated with the land occupied by public wharves. B. The appropriate provisions of the Act for the adoption and enforcement of regulations associated with public wharves and whether Ordinance 35A has any significance to wharves in Warringah Shire and particularly whether all public wharves should be included. 2.That the Council enquire from the National Parks & Wildlife Services its willingness to accept the responsibility for provision and ongoing maintenance of wharves at Cottage Point, Illawong Bay and Morning Bay, and failing acceptance, a further report be brought forward addressing the closure and removal of tghese 3.That before resolving Recommending the matter to the Church Point L6. That the Council adopt the regulation (Appendix II) associated with the wharf and establish discussions with commercial operators as to the feasibility of a LO to enable extended commercial operations to the wharf, Church Point. 5. That the future provision of wharves in Pittwater and the adoption of regulations associated with those wharves including the payment of fees associated with commuter vessel storage and commercial operations, be investigated and a further report be brought forward to the Council. (Crs Dunn/Beckman) PAGE Minutes Ordinary Meeting Warringah Shire Council 30th April 1991

A Special Meeting held on 7th of May 1991 records:

WARRINGAH SHIRE COUNCIL PUBLIC WHARVES COUNCIL DECISION 423 

1. That the Council instruct its solicitors to advise on:- 

A. The Council's legal obligation to obtain formal tenure associated with the land occupied by public wharves. B. The appropriate provisions of the Act for the adoption and enforcement of regulations associated with public wharves And whether Ordinance 35A has any significance to wharves in Warringah Shire and particularly whether all public wharves should be included. 

2.That the Council enquire from the National Parks & Wildlife Services its willingness to accept the responsibility for provision and ongoing maintenance of wharves at Cottage Point, Illawong Bay and Morning Bay, and failing that Service's acceptance, a further report be submitted to the Council addressing the closure and removal of these wharves: 3.That before resolving Recommendation 

3. Council first refer the matter to the Church Point Liaison Committee. 

4.That the Council adopt the regulations appended to the report (Appendix II) associated with the operation of the cargo wharf and establish discussions with commercial water transport operators as to the feasibility of a bonded key system to enable extended commercial operations of the cargo wharf, Church Point. Minutes Special Meeting - Warringah Shire Council May 7 1991

In the Meeting held on June 25th 1991 the Council made history! - details are:

The Corporate Services, Finance and Personnel Committee on the 18th December 1990 considered a report Concerning major maintenance and refurbishment to Bells Wharf, Tennis Court Wharf and Elvina Bay South Wharf. The Council resolved to make application to the NSW Department of Public Works for funding pursuant to the program with an estimated total cost of this work of $138,810. This program is on a 50/50 cost share basis. By letter dated the 23rd May 1990 Mr Jim Longley, MP Member for Pittwater advised Council that the Deputy Premier and Minister for Public Works had approved the Council's submission for financial assistance up to a maximum of $69,405. 

The conditions of this grant are that all work be carried out by contract after the calling of open tenders and that the Council advise the Regional Engineer, Metropolitan North, of its acceptance of this subsidy. Further conditions of the grant involved a maximum period of 8 months for the completion of work and other conditions concerning the payment of money and supervision of the project. A further condition requires that, any revenue collected by way of charge for the use of these wharves shall not exceed the cost of maintenance and that such charge is applied equally to residents and non residents of the Warringah Shire Council. 

The work proposed to be undertaken to these wharves is major maintenance work that is routinely required to wharves by virtue of the deterioration of these facilities in this marine environment. It does not suggest that the Council has neglected the wharves in terms of their maintenance nor that the wharves are in any way dangerous or dilapidated. 

This grant is the first occasion on which the State Government has assisted in the provision of wharf infrastructure for recreational boating interests in Warringah Shire. Until now the burden for the provision and maintenance of these wharves has rested solely with the Council. The tender for the work has already been advertised and tenders will be reported in due course.  The Council advise the Regional Engineer Metropolitan North of the NSW Public Works Department of its acceptance of the grant for the reconstruction upgrade of Bells Wharf, Tennis Court Wharf and Elvina Bay South Wharf pursuant to the NSW Waterways Infrastructure Development Program. RECOMMENDED TO COUNCIL by General Manager/Shire Clerk 

The burden of course rests with the ratepayers. However, recent upgrades of the wharf at Palm Beach (2015) and the Scotland Island Carols and Bells wharves (2021 to 2023), are testament to an ongoing commitment by the state government to ensure this vital infrastructure for what is an aquatic community, and its thousands of annual visitors, are maintained.

One final while still 'under Warringah' matter and adjacent to the Bayview wharf and baths site::

METROPOLITAN LANDS OFFICE

22 Main Street
P. O. Box 878, Blacktown 2148

Fax6718858

DRAFT ASSESSMENT OF LANDS AT BAYVEIW PITTWATER UNDER PART3 OF 1HE CROWN LANDS ACT, 1909 AND THE CROWN LANDS REGULATION 1990.

The Minister for Conservation and Land Management has prepared a draft land assessment for Crown lands situated at Bayview-Pittwater being the land described hereunder.

Inspection of this draft assessment can be made at the Metropolitan Lands Office, 22 Main Street, Blacktown; Department of Lands, 23-33 Bridge Street, Sydney; Dee Why Civic Centre, Pittwater Road, Dee Why and the Mona Vale Branch Library, Park Street, Mona Vale, during normal business hours.

Representations are invited from the public on the draft assessment These must be in writing and lodged, within 28 days from the date of this notice, with the Regional Director, Metropolitan Lands Office, P. 0. Box 678, Blacktown, 2148.

GARRY WEST, MP., Minister for Conservation and Land Management

Sydney, 25th October, 1991

Description Parish • Narrabeen (Sheet 2) County - Cumberland

Locality • Bayview-Pittwater Land District - Metropolitan Shire - Warringah

About 6768 square metres being Crown land below mean high water mark of Pittwater comprising the area held partly under Special Lease 1966/2 Metropolitan by Bakers Marina and Yacht Company Pty Ltd and land partly within RS6146 from sale or lease generally, notified 11th May, 1923. (at 1714 Pittwater Road, Bayview). MN80 H2325/4. DRAFT ASSESSMENT OF LANDS AT BAYVIEW-PITTWATER UNDER PART 3 OF THE CROWN LANDS ACT, 1989 AND THE CROWN LANDS REGULATION 1990. (1991, October 25). Government Gazette of the State of New South Wales (Sydney, NSW : 1901 - 2001), p. 9096. Retrieved from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article231901298 

In 1992 Pittwater Council was formed and embarked on a program of maintaining and replacing wharves and their infrastructure (walls etc) as needed. Now it was just road building that saw land taken:

ROADS ACT 1993

LAND ACQUISITION (JUST TERMS COMPENSATION) ACT 1991

NOTICE OF COMPULSORY ACQUISITION OF LAND AT BAYVIEW IN THE PITTWATER COUNCIL AREA

The Roads and Traffic Authority of New South Wales by its delegate declares, with the approval of His Excellency the Governor, that the land described in the Schedule below is acquired by compulsory process under the provisions of the Land Acquisition (Just Terms Compensation) Act 1991 for the purposes of the Roads Act 1993.

D Shatford

Manager Statutory Processes Roads and Traffic Authority of New South Wales

SCHEDULE

All those pieces or parcels of Crown land situate in the Pittwater Council area, Parish of Narrabeen and County of Cumberland shown as Lots 1, 2,3 and 4, Deposited Plan 843238. The land is said to be in the possession of the Crown. (RTA Papers 366.12051) ROADS ACT 1993 (1995, March 24). Government Gazette of the State of New South Wales (Sydney, NSW : 1901 - 2001), p. 1700. Retrieved from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article231940485 

In November 2016 the Bayview and Church Point Residents held a Centenary Celebration of the Baths on site. The event brought together past and present residents along with those who had holidayed at the spot and used the baths from the 1940's on. The occasion also saw former Pittwater MP, the Hon. Rob Stokes, unveil signage to mark the 100 years of this site as a community hub.

The Bayview and Church Point Residents believe the Baths would benefit from an upgrade, as they continue to be a popular community hub. Water quality is also a concern, and so Sydney Water promised a review and commitment to work with the installed by the former coalition government Northern Beaches Council on any required remediation.

Bayview Baths Centenary Celebration

Photos taken on Saturday November 20, 2016
Hosted by the Bayview and Church Point Residents  Association

Bayview Wharf and Baths

Site investigations for History page - research
November 27, 2024 - taken from east moving west from point before new walkway, completed July 2024

New walkway reports

• Foreshore Connection Improvements At Bayview Open For Comment: new seawall and footpath - November 2022
• Bayview Walkway and Seawall Set Works to Commence - February 2024
• Bayview's rejuvenated path + seawall completed - July 2024

a five part Test of Significance under the BC Act was undertaken by Cardno in 2019 for the Swamp Oak Forest TEC, which determined that the removal of up to 0.03 hectares of Swamp Oak Forest is not considered to be significant to the local occurrence of the TEC within and surrounding the proposal site. As such, a Species Impact Statement or entry into the Biodiversity Offset Scheme would not be required for the proposal.''

It is certainly a much hotter stretch of pavement with the trees gone.

The news service contacted council this week, after taking these site investigation photos, to enquire what the schedule/program for replacement of the vital Bayview wharf and repairs for the baths.

The wharf is considered a priority due to these being used for medical evacuations as required, although Bayview boat ramp could now be utilised for the same, and for emergency evacuations during bushfires should access be cut via the roads.

The one sentence reply was:

‘’Council is in the process of going to market for the design of the replacement/repair of the wharf at Bayview with the subsequent construction being subject to appropriate funding being available.’’

Bayview, Mona Vale and Church Point residents have expressed concerns regarding the wharf, groyne and baths since late 2016 when it was pointed out the baths and wharf needed repairs, then. 

Drawing attention to the asset needing maintenance had already been on Pittwater Council's radar.  

Consultants have apparently been engaged to complete various pre-requisite reports/studies (asbestos, aquatic ecology etc.) with another currently engaged to complete a heritage impact statement. Outcomes of these consultants reports will inform design options and concepts.  After which, a community consultation will follow. After which, a tender will be advertised. After which, a grant to meet some of the costs will be sought. After which, works may commence.

This means there will be no access to a safe quick dip for the Mona Vale to Bayview to Church Point population for the foreseeable future. A heavy burden on residents as we draw to the close of the hottest year on record.

They could catch a ferry to Scotland Island and use one of the fenced pool areas there, however, as reported last Issue, the island's trees are dying due to sewerage run-off, which inevitably filters down the hills into the estuary waters and impacts the pool areas allocated for the island.

See: Scotland Island Dieback Accelerating: IPART Review of increases In Sydney Water's Pricing Proposals An Opportunity to ask: 'what happened to the 'Priority Sewerage Scheme' for our Island? - Closes December 9 2024

During the site investigations for the Salt Pan public wharf history page, and celebratory pictorial of the Salt Pan to Refuge Cove bays, it was quickly apparent that that public infrastructure has been neglected as well - one pile is completely hollowed out while the others on the north-east side look as though they will give way at any moment. 

Considering that side of Pittwater is equally at danger during bushfire periods should roads be cut, and that wharf would be required for evacuations, the lack of maintenance on these wharves is not only putting lives at risk, it is also placing them at the point where they will fall down and be closed permanently until new infrastructure can be built.

See: Salt Pan Public Wharf, Regatta Reserve, Florence Park, Salt Pan Cove Reserve, Refuge Cove Reserve  and Salt Pan Cove Public Wharf on Regatta Reserve + Florence Park + Salt Pan Reserve + Refuge Cove Reserve: Some History

If the delve into what has been done since Bayview wharf first opened on December 1 1900 is anything to go by, maintenance on a quarterly basis, and repairs as soon as they are required (outside of WWII conflict materials shortages) are ignored at our own peril, especially so when much of the Pittwater community is an aquatics based one.

This also increases the costs of what is required after they have deteriorated to the point where they have fallen down, along with denying the community access, potentially for years, while bigger repairs or complete replacement is undertaken.

Works undertaken at Paradise beach (completed last week) and underway at Taylor's Point wharf (which had repairs in 2020) record that the state government continues to provide funding for the same. 

A total of $2.4 million was budgeted for remediation of Taylors Point Wharf and design work for Great Mackerel Beach and Currawong Wharves at the June 2024 Council Meeting. 

See Issue 636 Week Four of November 2024 report: Paradise Beach Baths renewal Complete - Taylor's Point Public Wharf Rebuild Underway

Where the first section of 'reclamations' occurred (for 30 car park spaces) to the west of the wharf and further west to Maybanke Cove:

References - Notes - Extras

1. TROVE - National Library of Australia
2. John Collins of Avalon History
3. Katherine Mary Roche
4. John Roche
5. Pittwater Roads II: Where the Streets have Your Name - Bayview
6. Roads In Pittwater: The Bay View Road 
7. Bayview Wharf history - 2013 version (1889 to 2012 photos)
8. The NSW Women's Legal Status Bill 1918: How The 'Petticoat Interference In Government' Came Of Age - A 100 Years Celebration Of Women Alike Our Own Maybanke Selfe-Wolstenholme-Anderson
9. Cedric Vincent Williams - Profiles 2015
10. Early Pittwater Paddlers, Oarsmen, Rowers and Scullers: The Williams Family
11. Bayview Baths Centenary Celebration - November 20, 2016
12. The Mona Vale-Bungan Beach-Bayview tank traps: Coastal Defences of Pittwater During World War Two - Some History
13. To School On The Ferries - Australia's First School Launch Was In Pittwater 
14. Church Point And Bayview: A Pittwater Public School Set On The Estuary: 1880 To 2016
15. Back To School In 2024 Inspires A Look Back At  A Pittwater Public School Set On The Estuary
16. Pittwater's Midget Submarine M24 War Grave Renews Memories Of 75 Years Ago
17. Dorothy Hawkins a film by John Illingsworth 
18. 'Winnererremy Bay: Angus Gordon' by John Illingsworth
19. Boost For Pittwater’s Boating Facilities - Official opening of upgraded Palm Beach Wharf, February 2015
20. Church Point, Pittwater: Winter 2023 + Some Photos From The Past

Also available in the Pittwater Wharves 2024-2025 series (so Far):

• Palm Beach Public Wharf: Some History 
• Clareville Public Wharf: 1885 to 1935 - Some History 
• Boulton's Jetty on 'Old Mangrove Bay' + Newport hotel jetty + Newport Public wharf: Some history
• Salt Pan Cove Public Wharf on Regatta Reserve + Florence Park + Salt Pan Reserve + Refuge Cove Reserve: Some History

Also available (NB: the jetties and wharves in these are being updated for this series with records to bring them up to the present being added in)

• Church Point Wharf  
• Bayview Wharf  
• Newport Wharf (Victoria wharf)
• Palm Beach Jetty - Gow's Wharf   
• Careel Bay Jetty-Wharf-Boatshed + recently updated: Careel Bay Steamer Wharf + Boatshed: some history
• Stokes Point To Taylor's Point: An Ideal Picnic, Camping & Bathing Place 
• Gow-Gonsalves Boatshed -Snapperman Beach
• Pittwater Reserves, The Green Ways: Clareville Wharf and Taylor's Point Jetty
• The Clareville/Long Beach Reserve: some History 
• Pittwater Roads II: Where the Streets Have Your name - Clareville 
• Year Dated Beer Bottles Found at Taylors Point 
• Pittwater: Lovely Arm of the Hawkesbury By NOEL GRIFFITHS - includes RMYC Wharf of 1938 + An Insight into Public Relations in Australia 
• RMYC Broken Bay Boathouse and Boatshed 
• Barrenjoey Boat House
• Goldthorpe & Smith Boatshed Becomes Port Jackson & Manly Steamship's Palm Beach Marine Service: Palm Beach Boatsheds  
• The Myra + Merinda II: Pittwater Ferries Of The Palm Beach Ferry Service (Commenced 1976)- A Few Other Verrills Ferries Of The 1980'S To Early 2000'S + Palm Beach Boatshed Insights  
• Barrenjoey Boatshed In Governor Phillip Park Has Been Part Of Our Community For 77 Years: A Few Photos From The Collection Of Russell Walton, Son Of Victor Walton, Pilot + A Few Insights Into This Evolving Station Beach Institution

Some of the Bayview Permissive occupancies - NB: C R Crossman, who later bought land at Church Point, had a place at Bayview from at least 1910-1915 onwards and would have friends stay for 'fishing parties' from 1915 onwards. This is from a section of a map that was cancelled in 1905/1927 (both written on it) due to being updated. Portion 28 was/is the hill going up above current BYRA clubhouse site. More onthat in resumed 1962 Notice below

NRS-21554-1-5-PLAN14/15510_02 | Hawkesbury River - General Arrangement - Proposed Wharf At Bayview Pittwater - Frame 2 - Plan Type : Engineering (Harbours & Rivers) Dates: 01-01-1899 to 01-01-1899

NRS-21554-1-5-PLAN14/15506_01 | Hawkesbury River - General Arrangement - Proposed Wharf At Bayview Pittwater - Frame 1 - Plan Type : Engineering (Harbours & Rivers). Dates: 01-01-1899 to 01-01-1899

PA 9766. Primary Application - Honorah Collins, Parish of Narrabeen County of Cumberland. Contents Date Range; 26-09-1895 to 28-11-1900. - Bayview land holding of 31 acres - K M Roche had the 49 acres alongside. 

Honorah's holding in Vol-Fol: 1338-126: this also included land bought by Maybanke Anderson.

Shows Shaw and Chav holdings to east and K M Roche holding to west

Maybanke Anderson's extra (?) 2 acres in Vol-Fol: 1357-32:

Collins - Roche land holdings at Careel Bay

NRS-23065-1-212-3819. Title; Deposited Deeds 3819 - 5 enclosures - Joseph Dalton; John Therry; Albert Black; John Collins; Honorah Collins; Fredk Somers; Mary A Somers; Kate M Black. Contents Date Range; 22-02-1881 to 13-11-1925

Honorah Collins - Date of Death 20 Oct 1897, Place of residence Pittwater NSW. Place; Bayview near Pittwater. Date Duty Paid; 22/12/1897

James Joseph Roche - Date of Death 26/11/1904, Place of residence Bayview. Date Duty Paid: 09/07/1908

Primary Application - Katherine Mary Roche [no description] PA 29636. Contents Date Range; 14-08-1928 to 14-08-1928 PA29636; Primary Application - Katherine Mary Roche 6 acres 38 1/4 perches in George, Therry, Elizabeth, Patrick, Queen's and Joseph Streets and a road 33 feet wide in Shire Warringah Parish Narrabeen County Cumberland Volume 6037 Folio 2. Contents Date Range; 14-08-1928 to 11-10-1949

Primary Application - Katherine Mary Roche [no description] PA 29644. Contents Date Range; 15-08-1928 to 15-08-1928 PA 29644; Primary Application - Katherine Mary Roche 6 acres 3 roods 39 perches on Careel Bay and Barrenjoey Road in Shire Warringah Parish Narrabeen County Cumberland Volume 4444 Folio 110. Contents Date Range; 16-08-1928 to 17-10-1930

Capes/Lambert's

Deposited Plan 9606 - Bayview - 1830 - Pittwater Road - Lot 24 - County Cumberland - Portion 28 - Parish Narrabeen - Ethel May Riddle - Acquisitions. Contents Date Range; 19-12-1986 to 28-11-1991

LOCAL GOVERNMENT ACT, 1919

Cumberland County Council: Proposed Resumption of Land at Bayview

HIS Excellency the Governor, with the advice of the Executive Council, and in pursuance of the Local Government Act, 1919, has approved of the Cumberland County Council's causing a notice of resumption of the land together with all mines or deposits of coal, ironstone, kerosene shale, limestone, slate or other minerals under the said land (excepting any such mines or deposits as were reserved to the Crown in the original Grant of the said land) described in the Schedule hereto, together with a description of such land, to be published in the Government Gazette and in a newspaper circulating in the area in which the land is located, such land being required by the Cumberland County Council for the purpose of carrying into effect the provisions of the County of Cumberland Planning Scheme. (S. 61-4,236)

P. D. HILLS, Minister for Local Government Department of Local Government,

Sydney, 23rd March, 1962.

Schedule:

All that piece or parcel of land situate in the Shire of Warringah, parish of Narrabeen and county of Cumberland, being lot 20, deposited plan No. 9,606, containing an area of perches, having a frontage to Pittwater-road, (late Bay view-road) and being the whole of the land comprised in Certificate of Title, volume 4,463, folio 41, said to be in the possession of Henry James Brown and shown on the plan with the Department of Local Government, Sydney.  LOCAL GOVERNMENT ACT, 1919 (1962, March 23). Government Gazette of the State of New South Wales (Sydney, NSW : 1901 - 2001), p. 785. Retrieved, from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article220248205 

Primary application 18871 (William Lambert acreage – sold to Benjamin James – part of 200 aces sold to Robert McIntosh as well): So resuming land for BYRA – Riddles Reserve – or just around point from Bayview wharf area and east of Church Point wharf. Became Vol—Fol 2736-49 - Lambert's holding.

NB: William Lambert also bought much of Coasters Retreat - this ended up being sold off by Albert Edward Bennett, from whom we get the name for 'Bennett's Wharf'. More on that in 2025 as we head east then north.

Primary application 18871 (William Lambert acreage – sold to Benjamin James – part of 200 aces sold to Robert McIntosh as well): so resuming land for BYRA – Riddles Reserve – or just around point. Became Vol—Fol 2736-49

Primary application 18871:

                                    

WARRINGAH SHIRE COUNCIL.

"PURSUANT to Ordinance No. of the Local Government Act, notice is hereby given that the Council of this Shire has, by resolution, declared all that portion of the villages of Brookvale and Curl Curl, situated within the under mentioned boundaries to be a Scavenging Area, viz.:—

On the east commencing at the Curl Curl Lagoon Bridge, and following the New Pitt water-road to its junction with the Harbord-road, and by that road to its junction with the New Pittwater-road at Stoney Range; on the north by Cross-street and tho northern boundary of portions 1,145 and 1,206; on the west by the western boundary of portion 1.206, the Beacon Hill road to its junction with the Old Pittwater-road, and following that road and Condamine-street to Burnt Bridge Creek ; on the south by Burnt Bridge Creek and the Curl Curl Lagoon, to the point of commencement.

By order,

P. CAREW, Shire Clerk.

Brookvale, 1st September, 1910. WARRINGAH SHIRE COUNCIL. (1910, September 7). Government Gazette of the State of New South Wales (Sydney, NSW : 1901 - 2001), p. 5041. Retrieved from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article226762087

IN THE MATTER OF THE PITTWATER CO- OPERATIVE SOCIETY, LIMITED.

AT an Extraordinary General Meeting of the Members of the abovenamed Society, duly convened and held at Pittwater, on the ninteenth day of January, one thousand nine hundred and ten, the following Extraordinary Resolution was duly passed: —

That it has been proved to the satisfaction of this Meeting that the Society cannot, by reason of its liabilities, continue its business, and that it is advisable to wind up the same, and accordingly that the Society be wound up voluntarily.

And at the same Meeting William Proven, of Mona Vale, orchardist, was appointed liquidator for the purposes of such winding-up.

Dated this thirty-first day of January, 1910.

H. T. STURMAN,

Chairman.

2513 6s. IN THE MATTER OF THE PITTWATER COOPERATIVE SOCIETY, LIMITED. (1910, February 9). Government Gazette of the State of New South Wales (Sydney, NSW : 1901 - 2001), p. 902. Retrieved from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article227062292

Hardie and Gorman, Ltd., this week sold a cottage at Bayview, Pittwater, with 20 acres of land, for £1000; H. W. Horning, and Co.,'Ltd., reports the sale of 42 lots of the St. Anne's, Glebe, Estate, £4028;'13' lots of the Herne Bay Estate, Great Salt Pan, £690; seven lots of the Lambert's Estate, Bayview, £1460; … REAL ESTATE. (1919, May 3). The Sydney Morning Herald (NSW : 1842 - 1954), p. 7. Retrieved from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article15837039 

Pittwater, excellent water frontage -property, 43 Salt Pan Estate, Prince Alfred Parade;  INDOOR AUCTIONS THIS WEEK (1927, November 16). The Daily Telegraph (Sydney, NSW : 1883 - 1930), p. 27. Retrieved from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article246396473 

Messrs. Hardie and Bloomfield last Saturday sold the whole of the Bayview Wharf Estate at Pittwater. The sale realised £3946. REAL ESTATE. (1920, April 3). The Sydney Morning Herald (NSW : 1842 - 1954), p. 8. Retrieved from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article15877695 

BYRA - Cape's Flat Notes

''One Wednesday in 1949, K.C. Dalton Esq. Skipper of the "Owen Davern", and Cedric M Williams Esq., Skipper of the "Christina", sailed a match race around Lion Island. The event aroused so much interest and enjoyment that it was decided to form a yachting association, and so BYRA was born.''

STAR CLASS YACHT RACE 

The final race of the Bayview Yacht Racing Association's Star Class yachts for the fleet championship was held at Pittwater yesterday. In this picture Hornet (C. M. Williams), 2nd in the race, and winner of the championship, leads Valsheda (B. Russell). STAR CLASS YACHT RACE. (1954, November 29). The Sydney Morning Herald (NSW : 1842 - 1954), p. 5. Retrieved from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article18454851

LOCAL GOVERNMENT ACT, 1919. PROCLAMATION.
(L.s.)
W. E. DAVIDSON,
Governor.

I, Sir Walter Edward Davidson., the Governor of the State of New South Wales and its Dependencies, in the Commonwealth of Australia, with the advice of-the Executive Council of the said State, in pursuance of the power Authority vested in me by the Local Government Act, 1919, DO HEREBY RESCIND AND REPEAL the Ordinances made under the Local Government Act, 1906, as follows:—

Ordinance No. 81 applying to Municipalities, and Ordinance No. 81 applying to Shires, both proclaimed in the Government Gazette of 14th May, 1908. 

Provided that the rescission and repeal of the said Ordinances shall not—

(a) affect the previous operation of the said Ordinances so rescinded and repealed, .or anything duly suffered, done, or commenced to be done thereunder; or

(b) affect any right, privilege, obligation, or liability acquired, accrued, or incurred under the said Ordinances so rescinded and repealed prior to such rescission and repeal; or 

(c) affect any penalty, forfeiture, or punishment incurred in respect of any offence committed against the said Ordinances so rescinded and repealed prior to such rescission and repeal; or 

(d) affect any investigation legal proceeding or remedy in respect of any such right, privilege, obligation, liability, penalty, forfeiture, or punishment as aforesaid; and any such investigation, legal proceeding, or remedy may be instituted, continued, or enforced, and any such penalty, forfeiture, or punishment may be imposed and enforced as if this Proclamation had not been made:

AND DO HEREBY MAKE and proclaim the Ordinance set out hereunder.

[1920-137-854-893]

Signed and sealed at Sydney, this fifteenth day of June, 1920.

By His Excellency's Command,

T. D. MUTCH. 

GOD SAVE THE KING!

Ordinance No. 35A.

PUBLIC WHARVES.

(Local Government Act, 1919, s. 411-415.) 

Application of Ordinance.

1. (a) This Ordinance shall apply to those wharves to-which it is applied by proclamation 011 the application of the Council Of the area.

(b) This Ordinance shall apply to the, wharves set out hereunder:—

Church Point Wharf, Pittwater; Bayview Wharf, Pittwater; Newport Wharf, Pittwater; Clareville Wharf,. Pittwater; Coal and Candle Creek Wharf, Cowan Creek.

Interpretation. 

2. In this Ordinance, unless inconsistent with the context or subject matter,— 

"the Act" means the Local Government Act, 1919. "wharf" means public wharf.

A ''wharfinger " means person appointed by the Council to the charge of a wharf. 

Berthing of Vessels.

3. Applications for berths for vessels at any public wharf shall be made to the Wharfinger. Berths shall be allotted in order of application, subject to the conditions hereinafter mentioned.

Order in which vessels shall be allotted berths.

4. (a) Laden vessels landing their inward cargoes at public wharves shall take precedence, both for discharging and loading berths, over ships entered for loading only. 

(b) Should- the vessel in turn for a berth not be in readiness to move to it when her turn arrives, then the vessel next on the list-shall take the turn, and the vessel so superseded shall remain first on the list. 

(c) Should more than one berth become vacant, the vessels next on turn shall be allotted berths suitable to their size and draft of water, respectively, at the discretion of the Wharfinger. 

(d) Should a vessel be engaged loading at the berth when a vessel enters the port with inward cargo to discharge on the said wharf, or with passengers to, land thereon, or both, the Wharfinger may require the loading vessel to move out for the purpose of allowing the vessel about to discharge to move in. As soon as the inward vessel has discharged her cargo, she, in turn, may also be required by the Wharfinger to move out without delay, to allow the vessel which previously occupied the berth for loading to re-bertlr and continue her loading.

Penalty for not berthing and removing vessels as directed.

5. A master or other person in charge of a vessel shall berth and, remove it as directed by the Wharfinger, and in default shall be liable to a penalty not exceeding five pounds.

Out rigging—Hawsers—Cables.

6. (a) The master or other person in ,charge of a vessel shall rig in jibbooms, flying jib-booms, and martingales.

(b) He shall get all outriggers and sprit-sail yards, including bumpkins, fore and aft on notice from the Wharfinger.

(c) He shall also, when required by the Wharfinger, shift the vessel, and slack down hawsers and cables.

(d) Any master or other person who shall refuse or neglect to comply with any provision of this clause shall be liable to a penalty of not exceeding: five pounds.

Removal of Vessels.

7. When either the non-payment of dues, or the breach of any Ordinance, or the requirements-of the public, render it necessary or advisable to remove any vessel from a public wharf or jetty, the Wharfinger may, by written notice delivered to the officer in charge of such vessel, order her removal, and charge the owner, master, or agent of the vessel with the cost of such removal.

Public Wharves—for what purposes to be used.

8. (a) Wharves shall not be used for purposes other than the landing or loading of goods or merchandise, or the transit of passengers.

(b) They shall not be used as store-yards for timber, stone, metal ballast, coal, or other material.

(c) All such goods or materials shall be removed from the wharf or jetty within forty-eight hours after being placed thereon.

(d) Any owner or consignee, or the agent of either, who shall-refuse or neglect to remove any such goods or material in pursuance of this clause shall, for every day during which he shall be in default, be liable to a penalty of not less than one pound nor more than five pounds.

Wharfinger way regulate the weight to be placed on wharf and control space for loading and discharging.

9. (a) Heavy material discharged or intended to be laden into any vessel shall not be placed on any part of the wharf except where the Wharfinger shall direct or permit the same to be placed.

(b) The Wharfinger shall have general control of the space for landing • and loading goods.

(c) Any person who shall refuse or neglect to comply with this clause shall be liable to a penalty not exceeding twenty pounds and not less than five pounds. 

Goods not removed may be stored at cost of consignee or importer thereof.

10. If any goods or merchandise whatever are landed on any wharf, and are not removed therefrom before the expiration of forty-eight hours thereafter, the Wharfinger may remove and store the said goods or merchandise at the risk and cost of the consignee or importer thereof.

Use of sheds—No goods to be removed without payment of dues.

11. (a) Sheds erected on public wharves shall be open to allow consignees to take delivery of their goods at such times as the Council shall determine and notify by notice-board fixed at wharf.

(b) The Council shall intimate by notice exhibited on the wharf that no responsibility whatever is accepted by it for the safe custody of goods or as to their delivery.

(c) Goods subject to wharfage rates, inwards or outwards, shall not be allowed to be removed from the wharf or shed by any person until the rates and dues thereon have been paid to the Wharfinger. 

(d) Precedence for storage shall be given to goods liable to injury by exposure.

Obstructing or molesting Wharfinger.

12. Any person who shall assault or molest either the Wharfinger or any assistant of the Wharfinger when engaged in the exercise of his duty, shall be liable to a penalty not exceeding twenty pounds. £6910j LOCAL GOVERNMENT ACT, 1919. (1920, November 12). Government Gazette of the State of New South Wales (Sydney, NSW : 1901 - 2001), p. 6633. Retrieved from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article224614381