Pittwater Online News

On the western perimeter of the valley of Avalon runs what was originally called 'Long Beach' and now is known as Clareville, sometimes also spelt 'Clairville' and 'Claraville" in earlier records and Taylors Point, sometimes spelt 'Tailors'. When our area was still host to more bush tracks than sealed roads the water was the smooth way to get around. 

The Clareville wharf was one of the earliest public wharves in Pittwater and was built at a time when the thousands of acres of the Therry estate was being sold off in small farmlet acreage lots, and more people moving into what was ostensibly still a farming community. In order to get their produce to market, access to shipping was required.

See:   Pittwater Roads II: Where the Streets Have Your name - Clareville  and Pittwater Roads II: Where the Streets Have Your name - Avalon Beach 

Early in 1885, and just as the Church Point wharf being built by the Boulton's was nearing completion, the state government advertised:

Wharf and Approach thereto at Pittwater 991  Index page (1885, March 31). New South Wales Government Gazette (Sydney, NSW : 1832 - 1900), p. xviii. Retrieved from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article221626120 

This was advertised again a few times:

Construction of a Public Wharf and Approach thereto at Pittwater, Broken Bay. TENDERS FOR PUBLIC WORKS. (1885, May 27). New South Wales Government Gazette (Sydney, NSW : 1832 - 1900), p. 3412. Retrieved from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article221693347 

Construction of a Public Wharf and Approach thereto at Pittwater, Broken Bay.  TENDERS FOR PUBLIC WORKS. (1885, June 2). New South Wales Government Gazette (Sydney, NSW : 1832 - 1900), p. 3521. Retrieved from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article221693909 

Then finally one James A Bailey was announced as the winner of the tender, although no allocation of how many £ would be spent or the dimension's of the wharf itself was advertised:

Department of Public Works,
Sydney, 10th July, 1885.
THE following Tenders have been accepted :—
James A. Bailey—Construction of Wharf at Pittwater, Broken Bay. Government Gazette Tenders and Contracts (1885, July 10). New South Wales Government Gazette (Sydney, NSW : 1832 - 1900), p. 4264. Retrieved from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article223985143 

Mr Bailey and his team were soon on the ground doing the construction works. He also encountered one of the members of the Green family of rowers while there - which places this obscure advertisement as sited at Clareville:

Young Thieves

Frederick Came, Henry Johnson, John Williams, W. Reilly alias Beck, and William Lindsay alias Lynch, Pittwater youths, all apparently under 20 years of age, were charged with having stolen a watch, three teeth mounted in gold, and other articles the property of James A. Bailey. The accused were farther charged with having stolen five- plugs of tobacco, a silver ring,. &c, the property of John Scott. It appears that about two miles from Barranjoey, a number of men are engaged at work, and reside in tents. The accused visited the tents and took the property named. Reilly and Johnson got a month's imprisonment on each charge, and the others fourteen days on each charge. Young Thieves. (1886, February 24). Evening News (Sydney, NSW : 1869 - 1931), p. 6. Retrieved from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article111188731 

In re Richard A. W. Green. Bankrupt was examined at some considerable length. He said he had been working a leasehold at Pittwater, which he had the option of purchasing for £1500 within three years. This was his third insolvency. The first was about twenty years ago. Twelve months ago he gave a bill of sale over furniture and live stock and boats at Pittwater, to a Mr. Bailey. He did not receive any consideration therefor at the time. Mr. Bailey appointed bankrupt's father-in-law to take possession. Mrs. Green was a creditor for £277. She was his mother. In 1884 he entered into an agreement to sell some land he had bought from his mother for £8000. A dispute arose and was settled in Equity by him taking a one fifth share in the re-sale of the kind, in addition to the £8000. Two payments of £600 each were made, but Mr. Bailey got the money. At the conclusion of the examination his Honor drew attention to the unnecessary length to which it had been carried, and that the costs should be reserved, and not allowed without an express order. In Bankruptcy. (1889, February 14). Evening News (Sydney, NSW : 1869 - 1931), p. 3. Retrieved from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article108793499 

Re Richard A. W. Green. The bankrupt did not wish to amend his statement and was examined by Mr. E. A. Smith at great length. He said that he had been working a leasehold property at Pittwater. which he had the option of purchasing for £1600 within three years. He had been insolvent three time altogether. He had been insolvent first about 20 years ago. A year ago he gave a bill of sale for £100 over his furniture, live stock and boats at Pittwater to a Mr. Bailey, for which at the time he did not receive any consideration, he did not know whether the bill of sale was registered. His father-in-law, John Johnson, was appointed by Mr. Bailey to take possession. Mrs. Green's name appeared as a creditor for £277. She was his mother, and the money had been advanced by Mr. Bailey as trustee. In 1884 he entered into an agreement with four purchasers to sell land he had bought from his mother for £8000. A dispute arose which was settled in Equity by a new agreement under which he was to receive a one-fifth share of the re-sale of the land in addition to the £3000. Two payments of £600 each ware made on account. Mr. Bailey got the money and bankrupt had none of it. The balance of the £8000 had been paid, he believed, although. Mr. Bailey had said nothing to him about it. When the lengthy examination was concluded his Honor drew attention lo its prolix nature and directed that the costs of the unnecessarily long examination should be reserved and not allowed upon taxation without express order. LAW. (1889, February 14). The Daily Telegraph (Sydney, NSW : 1883 - 1930), p. 6. Retrieved from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article235872905 

EXAMINATION OF WITNESS

In re Richard Augustus Willoughby Green:

On behalf of the official assignee, Mr. Gordon examined James Bailey. Witness said he had known bankrupt since about 1885, when he was a commission agent, but in 1888 became manager for Phillip Stephan and Co. He was questioned at some length as to a bill of sale given by the bankrupt to him in 1885 covering property at Pittwater. The bill of sale was to cover 'future advances’. In Bankruptcy. (1889, February 26). Evening News (Sydney, NSW : 1869 - 1931), p. 3. Retrieved from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article108793802 

The wharf is already present in 1885 as ‘Clareville Pier’ by late the same year:

Advertising (1885, December 17). The Sydney Morning Herald (NSW : 1842 - 1954), p. 15. Retrieved from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article13606785 

James Stokes sold his 25 acres to William Charles on 29 July 1835 for £10. This transaction brought Warner’s 50 acre grant under one ownership once more. William Charles sold to George Green on 2 March 1854 for £70. [LTO Book 30 No. 888] On 21 October 1870 George Green sold the land to John Collins for £70, and on the same day Collins sold it to Revd. Joseph Dalton, a trustee of Revd. Therry’s will, for £100. [LTO Book 121 Nos. 729, 730] - From PROFILES OF THE PIONEERS IN MANLY, WARRINGAH AND PITTWATER by Shelagh Champion, OAM, B.A.(Lib.Sc.) and George Champion, OAM, Dip.Ed.Admin., Revised 2013

Pittwater started early to add to the shipbuilding. Many sloops and vessels were built at this beautiful spot. Mr. Stokes built several. He gave his name to Stoke Point more often called Stripe Point, south of Careel Bay. A man called Bradbury is credited with having built the first boats at Careel Bay. George Green, father of the sculler, built and launched a vessel in 1855 on the east side of Clareville, between Stokes Point and Taylor's Point. It was on the stretch of water at the head of Pittwater that Green's son—Dick trained for the championships. MILESTONES IN EARLY COLONIAL PROGRESS. (1941, February 8). The Newcastle Sun (NSW : 1918 - 1954), p. 4. Retrieved from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article167440508

Although the Champions research indicates George Green sold this parcel of 50 acres, his wife and children continued to possess land in the Pittwater area and Richard Green, second born son, seemed to go to Pittwater as a kind of refuge when he needed to be on the land and on the water away from Sydney 'town'. His brother Henry also owned land into the 1920's:

Primary Application - Sydney Robert Lorking and Henry Green - 36 acres at Pittwater in Shire Warringah Parish Narrabeen County Cumberland Volume 3777 Folio 60 Date range: 14/07/1919 to 17/09/1920. Item Number Or Control Symbol: PA 22062 – This was the George Hudson Land from 1925 and at Taylors Point, the other end of the 'Long Beach' and Clareville waterfront and beach sections. The sell off of lots ran from 1926 until he passed and after his wife passed and up to 1940.

This was where Taylor's Point wharf was built in the early 1920's - more on that below.

Taylor's Point land subdivision Lithograph, courtesy State Library of nSW

'Claraville''s wharf was the first of these water access structures at Clareville:

PITTWATER ESTATE. TWO VERY CHOICE BLOCKS, being LOTS III. and IV. of the NORTH DIVISION known as KRETCHMANN'S FARM. containing a total area of 103 acres 2 roods 20 perches, two sides of which are fenced with a two-rail fence. THE HOMESTEAD consists of two slab cottages, roofed with Iron, one containing 4 rooms and the other 2 rooms besides which there are various sheds for cattle, pigs, poultry, &c. There are also two paddocks, one of 6 and the other of 8 acres, newly fenced with a 6-barbed wire fence, and cleared ready for cultivation. There is a plentiful supply of water on the property, while the land has a frontage to the main road of 1873 foot by a great depth to the waters of Broken Bay, to which it has also a large frontage. Fine views of the Hawkesbury River and the ocean, at same time well sheltered from adverse winds. The tramway on the Military-road is expected to pass through the farm, and it is only 10 minutes walk from Claraville Pier,  Pittwater. Grand block for subdivision purposes. Advertising. (1886, January 11). The Sydney Morning Herald(NSW : 1842 - 1954), p. 12. Retrieved from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article28359687 

Pre- 1905 Land Titles Map - Showing 'Claraville' and 'Long Beach'. Courtesy Land Titles Office Historic records of NSW.

On 29 June 1885 Lix’s attorney sold the farm to Josef Kretschmann, Professor of Music, for £1162. A contract for sale to John Davison was transacted on 5 February 1886. [LTO Book 336 No. 603] On 18 May 1886 an order was made by the Chief Commissioner for Insolvent Estates, placing Kretschman’s estate under sequestration. The official assignee of the estate, Lancelot Threlkeld Lloyd, finally conveyed the estate to John Davison on 20 February 1888. [LTO Book 381 No. 150] Davison paid £816 1s 6d to Lloyd, and £30 to Simeon Frankel. from - Profiles of the Pioneers in Manly, Warringah and Pittwater (1996 revised 2013), Shelagh Champion, OAM, B.A.(Lib.Sc.)and George Champion, OAM, Dip. Ed. Admin.

By 1887 an 'approach to' Clareville wharf is advertised for Tender, indicating that built by Mr. Bailey would have been the stonework leading on to the wooden deck of the wharf itself, and this would be a road or track leading down to the landing stage area that would be set aside in 1900:

Department of Public Works, Sydney,
12th August, 1887. 
TENDERS will he received at this Office until 11 o'clock on MONDAY, the 22nd instant, from persons willing to Contract for
16q. Pittwater to Barreujuee
17q. Approach to Clareville Wharf, Pittwater.
Tenders to be addressed to P. H. FLYNN, Chief Clerk, Roads Department, where specifications and sections may be seen.  Advertising (1887, August 18). The Sydney Morning Herald (NSW : 1842 - 1954), p. 2. Retrieved from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article13659039

This Tender was advertised at the same time one for the original Mona Vale road had been accepted:

Tenders accepted ....  D. Bailey, road Lane Cove to Pittwater, £543 19s, 8d. Government Gazette. (1887, August 6). The Sydney Mail and New South Wales Advertiser (NSW : 1871 - 1912), p. 292. Retrieved from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article165223309

Land which was resumed in 1900 for a landing area and approach (road) to the wharf was advertised in 1905/1906 as it was no longer needed:

GOVERNMENT GAZETTE.

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

The resumption notice states:

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Primary Application Number: 10815 provides:

Interestingly, when going through the documentation for Primary Application Number 10815, this shows Charles H Kerry, the photographer of some renowned, bought 12 acres on 'south beach' in 1924 from that Jeremiah Crowley acreage, which went through the hands of the Wickhams and then was sold to Avalon Beach SLSC founders, the Hanson family.

Primary Application Number 26963:

Charles Henry Kerry (April 3 1857 – May 26 1928) was an Australian photographer noted for his photographs that contributed to the development of the Australian national psyche and romance of the bush. 

Mr. Kerry was born on Bobundra Station in the Monaro region of New South Wales, the son of Samuel Kerry, commissioner's orderly and later grazier from Derbyshire, England, and his native-born wife Margaret, née Blay. 

He began working in the Sydney photo studio of A.H. Lamartiniere in 1875. When Lamartiniere fled from creditors a few years later, Kerry took charge of the company, paying debts and turning around the business. 

By 1884, Kerry had taken over the business and had his studio at 308 George Street, Sydney. In 1890 he was appointed official photographer to the Governor of New South Wales, Lord Carrington. 

Initially Kerry specialised in portraits but branched into photographing Sydney scenery and society. He was also active in the postcard business from 1903. Eventually Kerry turned this small studio into Australia's largest photographic establishment.

Readers will have seen his captures of our area in The Cowan ‘Creek’ + Lovett Bay Heights Tracks: Some Notes From The Pages Of The Past With Early Photos as well as other History pages.

Readers may also recall he was a director of the 'Motor Company' which in 1906 tried to alleviate the problems George Brock was having in getting people to The Oaks after the tram build to Pittwater was delayed and eventually ceased at Narrabeen.

The advertisements for selling off the residue of the Landing Reserve resumed acreage:

LAND SALE. (1905, August 19). Government Gazette of the State of New South Wales (Sydney, NSW : 1901 - 2001), p. 5670. Retrieved from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article221027450 

LAND SALE. (1906, February 17). Government Gazette of the State of New South Wales (Sydney, NSW : 1901 - 2001), p. 1214. Retrieved from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article226406958 

Clara is the Feminine form of the Late Latin name Clarus which meant "clear, bright, famous". The name Clarus was borne by a few early saints, the feminine form popularised by the 13th-century Saint Clare of Assisi, a friend and follower of Saint Francis, who left her wealthy family to found the order of nuns known as the Poor Clares. As an English name it has been in use since the Middle Ages, originally in the form Clare, though the Latinate spelling Clara became more popular in the 19th century.

Clareville wharf became the responsibility of Warringah Shire Council in 1912:

PROCLAMATION
New South Wales, to wit.
(L.S.) Chelmsford, Governor.
By His Excellency The Right Honourable Fredrick John Napier, Baron Chelmsford, Knight Commander of the Most Distinguished Order of Saint Michael and Saint George, Governor of the State of New South Wales and its Dependencies, in the Commonwealth of Australia.

I Frederic John Napier, Baron Chelmsford, the Governor aforesaid, with the advice of the Executive Council, in pursuance of the powers vested in me by the ''Local Government Act, 1906," and Acts Amending the same, by this my Proclamation, apply Ordinance No. 81, regarding the regulation and control of public wharfs and jetties, published in the Government Gazette No. 57 of 14th May, 1908, together with all amendments thereof subsequent to the aforesaid date, to the public wharves named in the Schedule hereto, situated within the Warringah Shire, and vested in the Council of the said Shire: — [1912-1.31-272- 486]

SCHEDULE.
Church Point Wharf, Pittwater. Bayview Wharf, Pittwater. Newport Wharf, Pittwater. Clareville Wharf, Pittwater. Coal and Candle Creek Wharf, Cowan Creek.
Given under my Hand and the Seal of the State, this sixteenth day of January, in the year of our Lord one thousand nine hundred and twelve, and in the second year of His Majesty's Reign.
By His Excellency's Command,
FRED. FLOWERS.
[4566] GOD SAVE THE KING! PROCLAMATION (1912, January 31). Government Gazette of the State of New South Wales (Sydney, NSW : 1901 - 2001), p. 590. Retrieved from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article226770470 

And then the bigger land sales and a shift towards becoming a suburb for weekenders and permanent residents commenced:

Richardson and Wrench records the following sales …. Block of land near Clareville Wharf containing 101 acres' 3 roods 37 perches, for £350.  … Pittwater Lots 10, 2, and 2a Clareville subdivision for £66 7s 6d; total sales . .. PROPERTY MARKET. (1903, September 21). Evening News (Sydney, NSW : 1869 - 1931), p. 7. Retrieved from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article115855024 

PITTWATER, close to Clareville Wharf, Long Beach.-4a 1r 27p. LOT 7A PITTWATER ESTATE. Freehold – Raine and Horne – for sale. Advertising (1904, September 21). The Sydney Morning Herald (NSW : 1842 - 1954), p. 15. Retrieved from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article14632815 

Real Property Act No. 13,253. County of Cumberland, parish of Margaret Allan Mosman 17 Feb., 1905. Narrabeen, 101a. 1r. 38p„ situated on Clareville Wharf-road. Clareville — is block No.' 3, South Subdivision, Pittwater Estate, and is part of 1200a. (portion No. 20 of parish), granted to John Joseph Therry; adjoining the properties of F. Burne, J. Robertson, .S. Smith and G. A. Smith, trustees of Mrs. Evans, or J. G. Cousins, G. Holland,' the London Bank of Australia, and J. H. Parry. Advertising (1904, December 31). The Australian Star (Sydney, NSW : 1887 - 1909), p. 12 (FIRST EDITION). Retrieved from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article228274013 

Margaret Allen sells to George Crowley - Volume Folio 1636-49:

Primary Application Number: 13258:

Newport- Pittwater.
SANDY BEACH FRONTAGES, in the SHELTERED WATERS of PITTWATER HARBOR, opposite SCOTLAND ISLAND, and only 12 MINUTES WALK of the OCEAN BEACHES.
The Clareville Beach Estate.
Adjoining the CLAREVILLE PUBLIC WHARF, and embracing 
ABSOLUTE BEACH and WATER FRONTAGES, and CAMPERS' SITES, Overlooking the Beach.
TITLE WILL BE TORRENS. NOTE THE TERMS: £2 and £5 per Lot Deposit, balance by quarterly payment extending over 5 years. Interest 5 per cent.
FREE LAUNCHES from BAYYIEW and NEWPORT JETTIES all day of Sale. LIGHT REFRESHMENTS ON THE GROUND.
Lithographs obtainable from the Auctioneers and Local Agent.
INTENDING PURCHASERS ate requested to take TRAM to NARRABEEN, then MOTOR 'BUSES to NEWPORT or BAY VIEW, and catch the FREE LAUNCHES from both these places on day of sale, and attend the Sale of CLAREVILLE BEACH ESTATE, IN PITTWATER HARBOR.
AUCTION SALE, ON THE GROUND, S O'CLOCK,
Anniversary Day, January 26.
RICHARDSON AND WRENCH, LTD., AUCTIONEERS.
— J. WILLIAMS, Bayview, Pittwater, Local Agent. Advertising (1914, January 11). The Sun (Sydney, NSW : 1910 - 1954), p. 9 (SUNDAY EDITION). Retrieved from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article221563893

Pittwater Clareville Ocean Beach Estate - Central Rd, Barrenjoey roads - A J Small. Item No.: c027560009 [Avalon subdivision plans] - courtesy State Library of New South Wales. And sections from to show residences and name for Avalon Beach.

Mr.  Arthur J. Small, of Royston Park, Asquith, takes exception to the statement last week that Palm Beach Estate, Barrenjoey where land brought £4 per foot, ls Inaccessible to the public, and practically can only be reached as a residential area by persons owning their own car. He draws attention to the fact that there is an hourly service of motor cars from the present tram terminus at Narrabeen to Newport, and a regular ferry service thence to Clareville and Palm Beach of two trips each way daily. This service was Inaugurated by the Palm Beach Co. when they first opened up the estate some five or six years ago. REAL ESTATE. NOTES OF THE WEEK. (1917, March 31). The Sydney Morning Herald (NSW : 1842 - 1954), p. 11. Retrieved from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article28101228

A fortnight after the Clareville Beach Estate was first advertised:

 Clareville Beach Estate, Newport-Pittwater - Beach Pde, Hilltop Rd, Central Rd, 1914

Two different spellings persist in precursors; this advertorial in a similar form first appears in newspapers on December 28th, 1913:

Messrs. Richardson and Wrench the auctioneers. The same firm will also conduct a sale on the holiday at Newport, Pittwater, where there are sandy beach frontages in the sheltered waters of Pittwater Harbour, opposite Scotland Island, and only 12 minutes walk of the ocean benches. The estate to be offered is the Clareville Beach subdivision, which adjoins the local public wharf, and embraces absolute-beach and water frontages, between Taylor's Point and Clareville wharf; also campers' sites, overlooking the beach. Free launches will run from Bay View and Newport jetties on the day of the sale, and persons wishing to inspect the land on Saturday can go by launch from the Hawkesbury River Railway station on arrival of the morning train from Sydney, returning from Clareville in the evening. HOLIDAY AUCTIONS. (1914, January 24). The Sydney Morning Herald (NSW : 1842 - 1954), p. 8. Retrieved from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article28120916 

Messrs. Richardson and Wrench, Ltd., have two important sales in hand, at Balmoral and the Clairville Estate, which, faces Pittwater Harbor. The Balmoral preposition consists of 60 lots in Murphy's Estate, quite close to this popular .beach, and commanding exquisite views of Middle Harbor. Since the Minister for Works has promised to put the Balmoral tram, proposal on his list for immediate attention,, the value of these blocks for residential or investment purposes has improved considerably, but even without such added inducement their admirable situation ensures a brisk demand. The Claireville Estate supplies the opportunity for those looking for cheaper blocks on an equally attractive beach. Messrs. Richardson and Wrench have made arrangements to cater for their clients at this sale, and motor-launches will meet the motor-cars from Narrabeen at Newport and Bay View and from the Hawkesbury River railway station on the day of sale.

On the opposite side of this narrow neck of land, which is on the road to Barrenjoey, Messrs. Stanton and Son, Ltd., will, about the same time, cater for investors who desire to acquire blocks in the Careel Ocean Beach Estate, which is situated near the Hole in the Wall.

This firm, too, will run free motor-launches to meet the down motor-cars and the train at Hawkesbury from Sydney. Both propositions have considerable future values, and, judging from inquiries which the auctioneers have received, there will be a good attendance of buyers for -blocks in both estates. ACRES AND LOTS. (1914, January 25). Sunday Times (Sydney, NSW : 1895 - 1930), p. 4. Retrieved from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article120363861 

Sections from the EB 'Panorama of Taylors Point' - 2, Pittwater, New South Wales circa 1917-1921, courtesy National Library of Australia, Image No.: nla.pic-vn6149430 - Part of Enemark collection of panoramic photographs - shows wharf prior to shed being built

The Warringah Shire Council meeting held on October 31st, 1921 shows a letter from Chatfield and Brown submitting a plan of Arthur Jabez Small's land fronting 'Clareville Road' wherein the council approved of the proposal to rename the roads then known as 'Arnold Road' and 'Clareville Road' as 'Avalon Parade' and that Mr. Small be asked to notify the residents already along this stretch of road. The subdivision was approved, on the proviso that a connecting road between Clareville Road and Central Road be reserved. On November 28th 1921 the council's seal was affixed to this subdivision.

EB Studios (Sydney, N.S.W.). (circa 1917-1918). Panorama of a bush track in the Careel Bay area, Pittwater, New South Wales  Enemark list title Careel Bay, Pittwater. Retrieved from http://nla.gov.au/nla.obj-162412531 - and sections from to show detail; with road at far right of photo seen between trees leads to Palm Beach - courtesy National Library of Australia. Is actually up the top of Clareville-Careel Bay

Whale Beach road (?) just up the hill from Careel Head road-Whale Beach road junction and looking back towards hill above Careel Bay. NB: flowering gum seen in one enlarged portion, and road running north glimpsed between trees going north, also portion of road visible running up to this road near fence posts in mid section.

Above: 'Clareville Road' circa 1917 - which will become 'Avalon Parade' in late 1921 per A J Small

'Clareville Road, Pittwater between 1922/1925 and 1930'. My great grandfather's photo Albert Henry Grace. Image shared on local Facebook History pages by and courtesy Helen Grant. This was soon to be renamed 'Avalon Parade' the name is is still now called. Helen's great grandparents bought land and built a place they called 'Gunjulla' - the home is still intact and gave its name to 'Gunjulla Place' off Avalon Parade towards the Clareville end.

By now the 35+ years old wharf needed some TLC and as it was being used as a transport embarking and disembarking point, a shelter shed was called for too. Around the same the initial land sales at Taylor's Point, then owned by Mr. Hudson, were about to take place and the construction of the Taylor's Point wharf would be part of that package:

The records for the March 22, 1920 Warringah Shire Council meeting record:

Arthur J. Small, 13/2/20, forwarding £10 by local residents towards cost of shelter shed on at Clareville Wharf t Resolved; That the shed be constructed while the wharf is being repaired.

In the WSC Meeting held on July 19th 1920: 

Taylor's Point Estate W. Robjohns' Ltd.., letter, 23/7/20, submitting suggested Agreement between the owner of Taylor' s Point Estate and the Council respecting the roads and wharf in the subdivision, was read. It was decided to ask that the depths of allotments facing No. 1 road should be curtailed by 50', rather than that the width of such road should be reduced. It was, also decided that the Engineer should confer with the Estate's Surveyor on the matter of wharf and roads. The wharf in respect of timber and construction, to be on the lines of Clareville Wharf, with steps similar to those at Bayview. With these modifications, it was resolved, (on the motion of Cr. Quirk, seconded by Cr, Campbell) That the Council accept the Agreement. 1, Resolved, -(Crs. Campbell & Cavill) That the Council place on record its appreciation of the good result achieved by the Councillors, who carried on the negotiations with the representatives of the Estate in securing the reservation of the beach for the public. Resolved, - (Crs. Quirk & Sterland) That advice be asked of the Shire's Association as to the charging fees in respect of subdivisions. The applications for the position of 2nd, Assistant Clerk were considered. On the motion of Cr, Corkery, Office seconded by Cr. Greenwood,)

On September 20, 1920:

Chatfield and Brown , submitting plan and section of road in Clareville Beach Estate, Clareville : Referred to the Engineer

By the October 5th, 1920 Meeting: 

J. A. Richardson 23/9/20, submitting, for approval, plan of land, at Clareville to be transferred to G.I. Hudson and to be dedicated later as a road : Consideration deferred until further information is available. Held over until reply received from Taylor's Point Estate in regard to the Council's enquiry as to the correct position of the road of access. That Thirty pounds £30) be voted for repairs to Clareville Wharf as recommended and that Thirty two pound £32) for the construction of a shed on. 

In the Meeting held on December 13th, 1920: 

(Crs. Quirk & Hewitt) That the Engineer report further to next meeting on Taylor's Point wharf, Taylor’s Point, a furnishing estimates of a wharf (1) from the specification submitted, by the Vendors, and (2) similar to Clareville wharf or Bayview.

By January 24th, 1921: 

Mr. Ryan, Director of Robjohn’s Pty Ltd., waited on council in regard to the proposed wharf at Taylor’s Point. The report of P. R. Horman (Norman?) B.E., the Engineer for Robjohns Pty L:td defending the plan for the wharf submitted was also read. Resolved; that the Council do not insist on a wharf similar in every detail to that of Bayview Wharf, but that if the Engineer is satisfied with the plan submitted that the Council will approve of it provided that the piles be sheathed with Huntz metal or with Monier pipes, whichever the Engineer considers most suitable. 

The February 7th 1921 Meeting records:

The President verbally reported regarding representations made to him by the Vendors for the Taylor's Point Estate in the matter of the construction of the proposed wharf. Resolved (Crs. Greenwood. &Sterland) That if the Vendors propose to have the Auction Sale of their Estate before the wharf is completed, they be asked to put up a satisfactory guarantee that the wharf will be constructed to the satisfaction and specifications of the Shire Engineer and will be completed within six months of the lodging of the guarantee; further that the Council submit to the Vendors, without prejudice, a proposition that in lieu of constructing the wharf they pay £800 to the Council to be expended on the improvement of Clareville Wharf and the roads which give direct access to the Estate. Resolved, _ (Crs, Parr & Oatley).: That the amount of such guarantee be £1200. (An amendment by Cr. Hewitt seconded by Cr. Greenwood; That the amount of the guarantee be £1300 was lost, on the casting vote of the the President, Cr's, 9 Hewitt, Greenwood, Hitchcock and Campbell Voting for it, the remainder of the council against- .

In the Meeting held on February 21st, 1921: 

W. Robiohns Ltd., 12/2/21, agreeing, with modifications, to Council's suggestion that expenditure on Taylor's Point Wharf should be diverted to Clareville Wharf, and roads of access Resolved,- (Crs.:Sterland &Hewitt) That the Council adhere fully to its decision of last meeting. 60 W. Robjohns Ltd., 11/2/21, submitting amended plans showing proposed exchange of land in Clareville Estate and Portion 33, for purposes of roads of access to Taylor' s Point. Resolved, - (Crs. Quirk & Hewitt) That the plan be approved and the council's Seal affixed to it,

In the WSC Meeting held on March 7th, 1921: 

W. Robjohns. Ltd. 25/2/21, further re proposed diverting of expenditure from new wharf at Taylor’s Point, and declining to contribute more than £500 towards improvement of Clareville wharf, &c. Resolved, a (Crs. Hewitt I Campbell) That the Council adhere to its previous decision That the Engineer's recommendation; for the drainage. of Black Swamp be adopted, and.£160.be voted therefor,.- the pipes to be laid only one- half the distance suggested in the reports. 13.: Resolved (Crs. Hewitt & Greenwood) That the Engineer prepare specification and tenders be called for the re-grading of Queen St. and the widening of the approach to Newport Wharf.

By April 26th, 1921: 

Taylor's Pt Wharf. It was resolved, - ( on the motion of the President) ''That upon completion of the Engineer’s plan and specification for a wharf at Taylor's Point, Tenders be called for the construction of the wharf, and also repairs to Clareville Wharf''.

Recorded in the Minutes of the Meeting held on May 16th, 1921:

G Inglis Hudson 10/5/21, on erection of new wharf at Taylor's Point, repairs to Clareville Wharf, and repairs to roads approaching the Estate, forwarding cheque for £1000 to cover cost of same (Dealt with earlier) 4. G. I. Hudson's letter of 10/5/21, was read, in conjunction with the. report regarding Taylor's Point Estate Point Resolved,(Crs. Quirk & hewitt) That the plan of the proposed wharf, as submitted, be accepted and that tenders be called immediately for its erection. Sheathing of piles not to be required. 5.The Engineer was instructed to make a more particular inspection of Clareville Wharf and report fully as to the repairs that are necessary. 6.Resolved, - (Crs. Quirk & Hewitt) That Thirty pounds (£30) be voted for the improvement of the road running along the foreshore beyond Church Point Wharf, for the raising of the portion of the road. below high water mark and for gravelling the greasy patch beyond Irelands.

Tenders called for a 120 foot long jetty:

Warringah - Construction of a jetty at Taylor's Point, Pittwater, near Clareville wharf 120 feet long and 3 feet wide Plans at the shire office, Brookvale. TENDERS. (1921, June 1). The Sydney Morning Herald (NSW : 1842 - 1954), p. 9. Retrieved from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article15935268

By June 13th, 1921:  

Four tenders were received for the construction of a jetty at Taylor's Point. Resolved, - (Crs. Quirk & Hitchcock) joint That the lowest tender, that of Messrs. Farquharson and Woodward for Two hundred and seventy-one pounds ten shillings and six pence. (£271/10/6d.) be accepted.

Clearly the, by then, £1500 handed over was not all spent on a new wharf for Taylor's Point and 'roads connected to' and refurbishment and the addition of a shelter shed on Clareville wharf was mooted.

The WSC Meeting held on July 11th, 1921 records: 

Barrenjoey B. Resolved1 - (Crs Quirk & Hewitt) That with regard to the encroachment of Barrenjoey Road on A.J. Small's land, and the proposed exchange of land for road by Mr. Small, the Engineer interview Mr. Small, and see what arrangements can be made for financing the work, and as to the date of carrying it out. Central Road Resolved, - (Crs. Quirk & Hitchcock) That the Taylor's Pt. proposal, as reported, for expending £50 of Taylor's Point Estate money in improving Central Road, and £70 in ballasting road on Taylor's Point Estate, be approved.. Clareville 10. Resolved; That the size of the proposed shed on Clareville Wharf be reduced to 14’ x 10’. Clareville Rd 11. Resolved, - (Crs. Quirk & Hewitt) Arnold Road. That the Council agree to accept dedication from Mr. A. J. Small of a new road to connect Clareville Road with Arnold Road, and that £150 of Taylor's Point Estate money be expended on clearing, forming and metalling such new road; the clearing, forming and culverts to be done first, and when completed, a metaled track to be made for the full length, the width of the metal to depend on the amount of money available. St. 12. Resolved, - (Crs.. Greenwood, Corkery) That £35 be (Vote) voted for forming.in Stuart Street, Narrabeen, in. accordance with the report. 13. Resolved, .- That MISS 182;. Leith' s plan of subdivision Sub. B. of Lots 33-34, Section A, ' Delmar Park Parade, be approved. The Assistant report was read and dealt with as follows :-Damage to roads. Resolved, - (Crs. Quirk & Hitchcock) That the attention of the Proprietors of the Saw Mill at Clareville be drawn to the damage being done to roads by timber getters, and they be notified it must be stopped at once, and all litter on the roads cleared up. uarter 4. Resolved, - (Cm. Quirk & Campbell) That the owners of Sessions land adjoining Quarter Sessions Road, Church Point, be asked if they will dedicate sufficient of their land to enable the rod to be made 66' wide. 6. Resolved, - (Cr2. Greenwood 8' Corkery) That N. J. Wall’s tender for the Supply of 500 cubic yards of spalls from Sheep Station Beach at 6/4d a yard be accepted. 14. Resolved, - (Crs. Corkery & Hewitt)That the improve- ic or - . Rd Meat of Victor Road, as requested. by A. Griffith, stand over for the present. . . Resolved, - (Crc. Quirk & Hitchcock) That the approach onto C, M. Smedley's residence in Stanley Street, Newport, be constructed conditionally on £6/l/- the estimated half cost being contributed. . 16. Resolved (Crs. Quirk &, Hewitt) That the approach to  J. Snow's garage in Bayview Road be carried, out, conditionally on-a contribution of £2/10/-, - the estimated half cost being paid. Fred W. Tyrer, 28/6/21, again drawing attention to the condition of Central Road,  Clareville  : Received.

Progress of the Taylor's Point jetty build is recorded in the Meeting held on July 25th, 1921: 

Resolved, (Crs. Quirk & Campbell) That the charge of Twenty-five shillings.(25/ -) for the use of the Councils pile-driving plant on Taylor's Point jetty, be approved. 10. A. J. Small's letter of 13/7/21, stating conditions under which he will dedicate land to connect Arnold and Clareville Roads, was read in conjunction with the Extension, report, Resolved, - (Crs Hewitt & Quirk) That the Council accept dedication under the conditions imposed, and that the expenditure of the £150 as agreed previously on such road, be proceeded with. 11.Resolved, - (Crs. Hewitt & Hitchcock) That an approach be made to the Methodist Church, Mona Vale, a subject to contribution of £29 the estimated half cost. 12.Resolved, (Crs. Campbell & Corkery)

By the October 4th, 1921 Meeting the wharf at Taylor's Point had been completed: 

Taylor’s Point Wharf Contract: Taylor's Point 5. Resolved, 8212; (Crs. Hitchcock, Quirk) That the approved extra £60 on Taylor's Point Wharf  Contract be now paid, and the deposit be retained for a period of three months, against possible maintenance.

And that panorama used here again:

Advertising (1921, September 24). The Daily Telegraph (Sydney, NSW : 1883 - 1930), p. 15. Retrieved from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article239704161

The Sales Lithographs and pamphlets from the records held by the State Library of New South Wales, clearly printed before the Tylor's Pont wharf had been completed just weeks before:

Shire of Warringah— Erection of Shed on and Repairs to Clareville Wharf, Pittwater Bay. — August 6 — R. G. Jamieson, Shire Clerk. Clerk. Advertising. (1921, August 1). Construction and Local Government Journal (Sydney, NSW : 1913 - 1930), p. 3. Retrieved from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article108986478 

The August 8th 1921 Meeting records:

Tenders: Two tenders for repairs to, and erection of, shed, on Clareville Wharf were received. Resolved, _ (Crs. Hewitt & Quirk) That the lowest tender, that of  P. E Olsen, for £187 be accepted, and that the Engineer make arrangements with the Contractor for the step to be similar to those on Bayview wharf.

Clareville wharf circa August/September 1921: workboat leaving timber for the shelter shed construction. Photo: Mona Vale Library Local History Unit

During the Meeting held 5th of September 1921:

Cr. Hitchcock moved, in pursuance of Notice on Wharves; That all the wharves on Pittwater Bay be specially treated to withstand the attacks of white ants.; Cr. Quirk seconded. Carried. Resolved, _ (Crs. quirk, Hewitt) That the Engineer report to next meeting on the condition of Church Point Wharf. CORRESPONDENCE 1, Petition by F. Buckle and 20 others for the construction of swimming baths near the wharf at Church Point. Referred to the Engineer for report' to next meeting.

Recorded during the Meeting held on 4th of October 1921: 

(Crs, Parr, Quirk) That the arrangements made for encasing the piles of Great Mackerel Beach Wharf with Muntz Metal, as reported, be confirmed. 

Muntz metal (is an alpha-beta brass alloy composed of approximately 60% copper, 40% zinc and a trace of iron. It is named after George Fredrick Muntz, a metal-roller of Birmingham, England, who commercialised the alloy following his patent of 1832.

The Minutes of the WSC Meeting held on October 10th, 1921 records:

Cr. Hewitt moved, in pursuance of Notice; That the Engineer draw up specifications, and that tenders be called for the repairs to Church Point Wharf. Cr. Quirk seconded. Carried.

In the Meeting held on October 17th, 1921, it seems those news steps for Clareville wharf needed adjusting mid-build:

Resolved;(Crs. Quirk, Hitchcock) that the Engineer be empowered to arrange with the Contractor for the alteration of the steps on Clareville Wharf, as verbally instructed, at a cost not to exceed £10. 

The WSC Meeting held on October 31st, 1921 records: 

A tender from P. E. Olsen for alterations to steps on Clareville Wharf, and supply of fresh pile, was submitted. Resolved, - (Cr. Quirk, Hitchcock) That the tender of £16/10/-, be accepted for the steps, but that the Engineer endeavour to secure a reduction.  Tenders. Church Point Wharf; One tender was received the repairing of Church Point Wharf. Resolved, (Crs. Hewitt, Hitchcock) That James Booths tender be accepted, the amount being £95. Resolved; (Cr5, Greenwood, Sterland) That A. Spear's tender of 163;37/10/. for 400 posts for Narrabeen beach fence and a price of 3/6d for each strainer, be accepted, and the Engineer arrange to carry on the work as the posts are delivered. 

The SS Phoenix Steamer Approaching Clareville wharf, circa 1922

Geoff Searl OAM, president of Avalon Beach Historical Society: Clareville wharf circa 1922/23 and the 3 brothers Ken, George ('Tom') and Geoffrey Hanson having fun in a washing tub. Their father owned a holiday cottage 'Keilor' on the corner of Avalon Parade and Ruskin Rowe.

ROAD CONSTRUCTION. Tenders are invited for the Clearing and Forming of about 25 Chains of Roads between Taylor's Point and Clareville, Pittwater, Shire of Warringah.  TENDERS CLOSE on WEDNESDAY, 21st instant. No tender necessarily accepted. Plans and Specifications may be inspected at the office of Arthur Rickard and Co., Ltd.. Rickard House.64 Pitt-street. Sydney. Tenders to be addressed; Surveyor, Box 2524, G. P.O., Sydney. Advertising. (1923, March 17). The Sydney Morning Herald(NSW : 1842 - 1954), p. 12. Retrieved from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article16062331

The Chisholm Ross Estate Lithograph, courtesy State Library of NSW, contains photographs taken by EB Studios which show us the landscape on the hillsides overlooking Clareville in circa 1921-1922 - although there is some indication that these land sales may have taken longer and commenced later than the timeframe listed.

Warringah Shire Council records show another Annie Wyatt connection in: 

''Tree Lovers' Civic League. Kuring-gai, 14/2/33, inviting attention to a fine tree on the top of the ridge between Pittwater and Avalon on the boundary of Lots 32 and 47, Ross Estate, and inquiring whether' it would be possible for the Council to resume sufficient land to preserve the tree. Council resolved that ''To be informed there is no money available for resumptions.''

In the Supreme Court of New South Wales.

PROBATE JURISDICTION.

In the will and codicil of Chisholm Ross, late of Berry street, North Sydney, in the State of New South Wales, medical practitioner, deceased. 

PURSUANT to the Wills, Probate and Administration Act, 1898, the Testator's Family Maintenance and Guardianship of Infants Act, 1916, and the Trustee Act, 1925: Notice is hereby given that all creditors, widow, child, or children and other persons having any debts, claims or demands of what kind soever upon or affecting the estate of the abovenamed deceased, who died on or about the 6th day of October, 1934, and probate of 1 whose will and codicil was granted by the Supreme Court of New South Wales, in its Probate Jurisdiction, on the 15th day of February, 1935, to Colin Chisholm Ross and the Permanent Trustee Company of New South Wales Limited, the executors named in the said will, are hereby required to send in particulars of such debts, claims and , demands to the said executors, on or before the 23rd day of January next, at the expiration of which time the said executors will proceed to distribute the assets of the said deceased among the persons entitled thereto, having regard to the debts, claims and demands only of which they shall then have had notice; and the said executors will not be liable, for the assets so distributed, to any person of whose debt, claim or demand they shall -not have had notice at the time of such distribution.— Dated this 5th day of November, 1935.

For the Permanent Trustee Company of New South Wales Limited,

J. W. BARNES, Manager.

Abbott and Allen, Proctors, 2 Castlereagh-street, Sydney. PROBATE JURISDICTION. (1935, November 8). Government Gazette of the State of New South Wales (Sydney, NSW : 1901 - 2001), p. 4409. Retrieved from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article223069122

Dr. Chisholm Ross, medical practitioner, of Berry Street, North Sydney, who died on October 6, 1934, left an estate valued at £5554.

Mr. E. O. Hanson, manager of Tamworth branch of the Commercial Banking Company, of Sydney, left on Tuesday of last week to spend three weeks leave at Avalon, near Sydney. MAINLY ABOUT PEOPLE. (1935, February 27). The Manning River Times and Advocate for the Northern Coast Districts of New South Wales (Taree, NSW : 1898 - 1907; 1913; 1921; 1925 - 1930; 1932 - 1954), p. 2. Retrieved from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article171835208

The Ross Estate Lithograph provides a great photo of the Clareville wharf as it was then:

View of portion of the Estate, lots 17-21

This shows the 'Clareville Road' - just about to become 'Avalon Parade'.

Clareville wharf and boatsheds with the newly installed shelter shed, circa 1922-34 (post death sale?)

W T Paddon special lease for boatshed, skids and slips (as seen in above photo) from Parish Map cancelled in 1934 - marked as '70':

Warringah Shire Council Minutes of Meetings record in those held in May 1922

8. Lands Dept.. 23/5/22 Inquiring whether there will be any objection to W. T. Paddon being granted a Permissive Occupancy for boat sheds of part of Landing Reserve adjoining Clareville Wharf. Resolved; . (Crs. Quirk and Hewitt) That no objection be raised, and recommending that Mr. Paddon's application be supported 

What was in that boat shed? Possibly some of these:

TENDERS-Building 2 Gladstone skiffs, Pittwater Rowing Club Particulars apply W Paddon, Union Fish Markets, Thomas-st Sydney. Advertising (1922, August 16). The Sydney Morning Herald (NSW : 1842 - 1954), p. 3. Retrieved from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article16019153

Warringah Shire Council Meetings Minutes indicate some of what occurred after the above notices for construction issued when this council was in its first few decades of administrating for the area and its peoples:

WSC Council Meeting held on 7/1/1929: Avalon Beach & District Progress Assn. 17/12/28. Respecting the condition of the road at the rear of Mr. Alexander’s residence at Clareville. Resolved - That a copy of the Overseer's report be forwarded to the Association.

11. Avalon Beach Progress Assoc. 17/9/29:  Again - requesting that Clareville wharf be put in order. Resolved, - The Engineer go into the matter of Wharves on a report for improvements on all the wharves of Pittwater - with a view to the inclusion of the work in a loan proposal, end he be empowered to obtain the services of a draughtsman if necessary for the preparation of plans. 

26. Avalon Beach Progress Assoc, 4.1.30 Stating that if Council will provide three more garbage receptacles for  Avalon Beach, with suitable notices placed on them, the Association will place them in position, (1) on the need for sanitary conveniences at Taylor's Point Reserve, (2) drawing attention to the "appalling condition" of Clareville wharf. Decisions:- (1) Resolved The Association be asked whether it is in a position to arrange for the emptying and cleaning of the receptacles, (2) referred to the Inspector for report.

The Meeting held on the 20th of October 1930 records:

OVERSEER BROOKS' REPORT was read, received and dealt with as follows _5Recommendin; removal of Bayview Baths to fresh site, Bay View Baths with alterations Resolved, _That the matter be referred to A. Riding Councillors, with power to finalise. (Crs. Robertson, Austin) 8. Estimate for renewals to Clareville Wharf: Resolved; That the report on this matter be not adopted. (Crs. Ross, Robertson).

7. Bobbie & Poxall, Licensed Surveyor, 5/8/31 requesting Council to reconsider its decision in regard to the damage done to Mrs Macluren's property at Bilgola Beach by storm water. Resolved, - That the Council's previous decision be adhered to:  (Crs. Campbell, Austin) 8. Reynolds, … & Co., 31/7/31, giving notice of intention to issue a writ for £50 in respect of damage to Mrs. Metcalf's property in Barrenjoey Road, Avalon Beach  Resolved, - That the Councils previous decision be adhered to, 94 Creagh & Creagh, Solicitors, 17/7/31, respecting damage to A E Hordern's property at Palm Beach by stormwater: Resolved, That the President and Engineer go into the matter. (Crs Austin. McPaul) Avalon drainage in vicinity of Bayview Avenue and Palmgrove Road - re Ruskin Rowe letter Resolved, - That the report be adopted. (C) Clareville drainage at Beach Parade 

Recorded in the Meeting held 19th of December 1932:

10. F.L. Holmes, 6/12/32, recommending Mr.,H. White for appointment re camping reserve collector on the beach reserve at Clareville„ Pittwater; and that he be given permission to sell hot water on the reserve; requesting that he be instructed to warn campers off lands private property;- requesting Council to inspect the reserve and, later, to receive a deputation regarding it. Again.  Arthur Rickard &.Co:,16/12/32, on behalf of the-property owners in that locality, protesting against the camping, and pointing out that there are no 'sanitary conveniences. . Resolved; - That camping be not permitted on the reserves at Clareville. (Crs. Hitchcock, Hughes) 

The Minutes of Meeting of Warringah Shire Council held on February 27th, 1933 record: 

(17) Avalon Beach & District Progress Assoc. 15/2/33, submitting following requests - (a) that the Council endeavour to secure a grant from the Unemployment Relief Council for the building of proper dressing sheds on Avalon Beach; (b) that provision be made for the erection of a Clubhouse, in Avalon conjunction with the surf sheds, the Council to provide the Surfbathing material, the Association the labour; also pointing out that the Association is paying for a life saver. Resolved,- They be informed that if they submit plans showing what they require, the Council might make application on those plans to the Unemployment Relief Council. (Crs. Hitchcock, Austin) (18) Same, 17/2/33, drawing attention to the unsatisfactory condition of the lavatories on Avalon Beach TENTS: Resolved - That A.J.Small be-notified that the Council cannot approve of tents being erected on his land at Avalon Beach in future unless adequate sanitary conveniences are provided. (Crs. Hitchcock Austin) (19) Same, 10/2/33,- resubmitting following requests - (a) that pile and wire netting baths be erected adjoining Clareville Wharf; that attention be given to Clareville Wharf, which is in a dangerous state;(c) that danger sign be erected at the Six Ways junction at the top of the hill between Bilgola and Avalon. Resolved, - That the Association be informed there is no Money available for the first and third Matters, and that the Shire Engineer prepare a report and estimates for improvements to the wharf.

The Minutes of Meeting of Warringah Shire Council held on Monday, 22nd of May 1933 record:

Wharves Pittwater. 17. Same (Avalon Progress Assoc.,) 3/5/33, inquiring whether there is any likelihood of the reconstruction of Clareville wharf being proceeded with. Resolved, The Council apply for grant for wharves in . Wharves Pittwater, and that the Engineer furnish estimates of costs for that purpose, and that it be pointed out in the application the Navigation Department receives a good deal of money in mooring fees. 

The WSC Meeting held 17th of July 1933 records:

8. Re old punt attached to Clareville wharf, Pittwater: Resolved, - That the owner be notified to remove the punt. 

At the WSC Council Meeting held on Monday. 14th August, 1933

42. Avalon Beach Progress Assoc., 3/8/33, drawing attention to the condition of Hudson Parade from Clareville to Taylor's Point, requesting that repairs be made, and that the extreme dead-end be widened to facilitate the turning of cars. Referred to the Engineer for report. 

From Warringah Shire Council Minutes of he Meeting held on October 9th 1933 Meeting:

Cottage Pt. 16. H. E. Notting, 22/9/33, pressing for an early inspection of the road work carried out at Cottage Point. Dealt with in conjunction with Letter 51. Cr. Hitchcock reported that Road he had inspected the road, and was satisfied. Resolved, - Do. Wharf That Mr. Notting be given a further £25 to complete the road to the top of the hill and he to be asked if the timber in the wharf could be sold. Oxford Falls Road 25. J. W. Wareham, on behalf of French's Forest unemployed, 23/9/33, requesting Council to endeavour to have the road  between Oxford Falls and French's Forest opened up by construction as a relief work, the road having already surveyed by the Council. To receive consideration. 20. Land Board Office, 27/9/33, inquiring whether Council has any objection to the granting of W. T. Paddon's application for an addition to the Permissive Occupancy near Clareville wharf. Resolved, - That no objection be taken.

It's also worth noting that the Paddon, Fox and Williams families continued that historic use of the stretch from Stokes Point to Taylor's Point and alongside Clareville's stretches for rowing practice and even held regattas there during the 1930's under the auspices of the Pittwater Aquatic Club.

The Minutes of Meeting of Warringah Shire Council held on Monday, 6th November, 1933 record:

Pittwater Wharves 53. Bayview & Church Point Progress Assoc., 30/10/33, re proposal to construct new wharf at Clareville, submitting that the new wharf should be a reinforced concrete structure, with strong turpentine piles at the sea end as fenders for the cement, and suggesting that the Engineer confer with Mr. Fretus of Church Point, who has the necessary appliances, on the matter. Resolved, - That the Engineer confer with Mr. Fretus, as suggested. 

Mr A J Small 4/5/34, drawing attention to the fact that someone has enclosed, within a fence, a lane between Lots 21 and 22, Clareville Ocean Beach Estate, Avalon Beach, thereby preventing public access, requesting Council to take immediate steps to have the obstructions removed and the thoroughfare re-opened. Absolved, - That consideration be deferred until next meeting. 

Two years later, no repairs had been undertaken by a 'cash-strapped' Warringah Shire Council and the 50 years old wharf was nearer the point of collapse. With the wharf at Taylor's Point now in use, a second wharf along this stretch of beach, providing easier access to Avalon Beach itself, may have been superfluous and an added expense the council could not foot the bill for. 

Warringah Shire Council records of minutes of Meetings states that in the meeting held on January 22nd, 1935:

OVERSEER BROOKS' REPORT was submitted and dealt with as follows:- 2. Demolition of Clareville wharf: Resolved, - That tenders Clareville 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.

Recorded in the Meeting held on February 5th, 1935 is a recycling of the materials as well:

CORRESPONDENCE was dealt with as follows:- 1.. Land Board Office, 22/1/35, inquiring whether there are any objections to the granting of the application of Mr. A.R. Chrystal for a Permissive Occupancy below highwater mark, fronting Lots 1-4, Centenary Estate, Pittwater, for reclamation in whole or in part, and to build a timber wharf in connection with a saw mill. (Dealt with in Works Committee's report.) Main Roads Dept., 22/1/35, requesting Council's concurrence.in the Department obtaining approximately 500 cubic yds, Newport of sand from the dunes on the northern end of Newport Beach Reserve, for use in the reconditioning of the road between Narrabeen and Palm Beach. Resolved, - That permission be granted. (Crs. Hughes, Austin) Mullet Creek Footbridge 8.. North Narrabeen Parents & Citizens Assoc., 16/1/35, requesting that another railing be erected on the bridge over Mullet Creek for the protection of school children, an infants' school now having been established at the Welfare Hall, Greenhills. Resolved, - That the railings from Clareville wharf be erected on the bridge, as recommended by Overseer. 

The following Meeting records the end of this pubic wharf of Pittwater:

19/2/1935: Cr. Hyghan moved as an amendment that the council purchase an 80-ft. strip for access to the beach Avalon Beach reserve from the proposed main road through Mr. Small's land for the sum Of £600, the full amount to be set off against Mr. Small's rates indebtedness, provided the proposed main road is established by the Main Roads Department without cost to the Council. Cr. Hewitt seconded. The amendment was defeated. The original motion was thereupon put and carried. Clareville Wharf: Cost of demolition of Clareville Wharf: Resolved, the expenditure of £99 on the demolition be confirmed, (Crs. Hughes, Sheppard)

Above: Geoff Searl, President  of Avalon Beach Historical Society with the remnants of Clareville wharf in 1983

The January 14th, 1936 Warringah Shire Council meeting records:

SHIRE ENGINEER'S REPORT was dealt with as follows:- 1. Cottage Point Wharf: Resolved (Crs. Austin, Hewitt) -  That a timber wharf be constructed at Cottage Point by Mr. J. F Duffy, the sum of £120 being voted for the work.  Clareville Drainage:. Resolved, That Mr.. C.P. Johns' request for attention to the drainage through Lot 55, Clareville Beach Estate, be referred to the Works Committee. 6. Avalon Drainage -. A.J. Smalls letter regarding cutting of a channel through his land: Resolved - That. the matter be referred to the Works Committee. 7. Storm Damage: resolved- - That the recommendation that  £80 be-voted for repair of storm damage in Waratah Street, in Seaview, Street, Mona street, Myola -Road, Palm Road, Ocean Spray-ROe4-Queens Parade, and George Street, Careel Bay, be adopted. 

The March 29, 1938 meeting records another instance of trying to get works done while not spending beyond the budget:

Bayview Park Reclamation: 10. Reporting: on tenders opened at last meeting for the supply of sand, filling for Bayview Park reclamation; Resolved, - That the tender of Messrs. Hayter & Nathesen, based on a lump sum of £787, for dredging a boat channel and depositing filling on the park, be approved for acceptance, but as the amount of the tender is greater than the amount of money available for the work, the area to be reclaimed be reduced by one-fifth, and the acceptance of the tender be conditional upon the tenderers agreeing to make a proportionate reduction in their tender, which reduction the Engineer estimates will bring the amount to £630. (Crs Latham, . Campbell) 

At the meeting held on 25th of November 1947 it was recorded: 

Resolved; That £35 be voted for the extension of Taylor's Point Wharf by 15 feet, and for two more piles, while the men are working in the area.

In the Spring of 1949 what we now know as the 'Old Wharf Reserve' was set aside as a crown land space:

RESERVATION FROM SALE OR LEASE GENERALLY - PROCLAMATION.

IN pursuance of the provisions of section 25a of the Grown Lands Consolidation Act, 1913, I, Lieutenant-General John Northcott, Governor of the State of New South Wales, with the advice of the Executive Council, do hereby proclaim the following area of land to be reserved from sale or lease generally, and the same is hereby reserved accordingly:—

Land District—Metropolitan ; Shire—Warringah.

No. 73,332. Parish Narrabeen, county Cumberland, 3 roods 8 perches, being part of the lands at Clareville resumed for access to public wharf by Gazette of 5th January, 1900, and being also the land contained in Certificate of Title, volume 1,726, folio 214, and as shown by red colour on plan Ms. 13,249 Sy. P. 49-6,940.

Signed and sealed at Sydney, this 6th day of-October, 1949.

(L.s.) J. NORTHCOTT, Governor. 

By His Excellency's Command,

W. F. SHEAHAN, Minister for Lands. (371) 

GOD SAVE THE KING!

RESERVATION FROM SALE OR LEASE GENERALLY.—PROCLAMATION. (1949, October 7). Government Gazette of the State of New South Wales (Sydney, NSW : 1901 - 2001), p. 2995. Retrieved from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article225592269

More in:  

Early Pittwater Paddlers, Oarsmen, Rowers and Scullers: The Paddon Family of Clareville (or Clairville)

 Early Pittwater Paddlers, Oarsmen, Rowers and Scullers: The Fox Family

Early Pittwater Paddlers, Oarsmen, Rowers and Scullers: The Williams Family

Avalon - first Meeting of Avalon Beach SLSC founders at A J Small's weekender of same name in Bellevue Avenue, Avalon Beach. Item: SLNSW_FL3809946 photo taken by Rex Hazlewood, courtesy State Library of NSW. 

There was a local movement to save the Clareville wharf and there are still documents available online that sought heritage listing and protection of what was left. There were also community concerns when Avalon Sailing Club was grated a permissive occupancy a little north of what has become the Old Wharf Reserve:

The WSC Meeting held on November 8th 1954 records:

Avalon Chamber of Commerce. 11 Comments 30/10/54 (a) expressing appreciation for the improvements to roads in the Avalon and Whale Beach areas; and (b) suggesting that the Council make available the Avalon recreation area behind the beach for the use of holiday makers with caravans. 21.Resolved - That the Chamber be informed the Council adheres to its previous decision to prohibit camps or Caravan caravans on the Avalon Beach Reserve, which is to be retained as a parking and picnic area for the public; and that caravan facilities are available at Governor Phillip Park, Palm Beach, and at Lake Park, Narrabeen. (Crs. Simmonds, Quinlan) (I) Clareville Beach Wharf & Beach Protection Association, 1/11/54, submitting copy of a petition addressed to the Maritime Services Board, requesting that the Board will not give any Permissive Occupancy covering the actual site of the old Clareville Wharf, it being understood that application has been made by the Avalon Sailing Club and the Coastal Patrol to build and use premises situated at or near this wharf, and should these buildings be erected, requesting that free access be provided for the general public to the beach and rocks; and asking for the Council's support to the petition. 22. Resolved - That the League be informed the Avalon Sailing Club has already been granted the right of use of a Permissive Occupancy over land held by the Council, and that a Permissive Occupancy has already been granted to the Coastal Patrol by the Lands Department; and also, that access to the beach will not be restricted for the general public. (Crs. McKay, Simmonds) 

Of course, a permissive occupancy for any structure projecting into the waters of the estuary itself also had to be sought - this time from the state government:

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.

F. H. HAWKINS, Minister for Lands.

Parish Narrabeen, county Cumberland; Special Lease No. 54-259, Land District Metropolitan, for erection of buildings (club house). Land applied for—about 8 1/4 perches below high-water mark of Pittwater, fronting R. 7,333 for Public Recreation, north of Clareville Wharf. Applicant—Avalon Sailing Club. Objections may be lodged at Land Board Office, Sydney. (L.B. 54-1,878) (5204) APPLICATION FOR LEASE FOR SPECIAL PURPOSE. (1955, December 16). Government Gazette of the State of New South Wales (Sydney, NSW : 1901 - 2001), p. 3738. Retrieved from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article220363078 

'Panorama of Taylors Point with real estate sign advertising upcoming land subdivision', Pittwater, New South Wales, Circa 1917-1920, courtesy National Library of Australia., Image No.: nla.pic-vn6149436 - Part of Enemark collection of panoramic photographs [picture] [1917-1946] 

'Panorama of Taylors Point' - 2, Pittwater, New South Wales circa 1917-1922, courtesy National Library of Australia, Image No.: nla.pic-vn6149430 - Part of Enemark collection of panoramic photographs [picture] [1917-1946] . Below: Sals Lithograph the photo was used in and enlarged sections from above panorama to show details and position of Clareville public Wharf